Gerald Edmund "Jerry" Brucker

Scotia- Gerald "Jerry" Edmund Brucker, known affectionately as Jerry by his friends and loved ones, passed away peacefully on February 24, 2026, in Scotia, NY, at the age of 85.

Born in Schenectady, NY, on March 29, 1940, he was the son of the late Frank and Naomi (nee: Thelen) Brucker.

Graduating with the Class of 1958 from St. Columbus High School, Jerry carried with him both the intellectual curiosity and the work ethic that would hallmark his career and service to the community. He established Brucker's Photo Incorporated in 1981, a business he owned and operated with dedication until its closure.

Jerry met Kathleen "Kathy" (nee: Coughlin) when he was her paperboy. What began as a simple daily delivery turned into a close friendship and then a relationship. In December of 1959, Jerry and Kathy were married, beginning their life together as husband and wife.

Deeply rooted in his faith, Jerry was a devout Catholic and a former parishioner of St. Paul the Apostle Church and most recently St. Luke's Roman Catholic Church in Schenectady. His commitment to his faith was evident in the tireless service he rendered as a eucharistic minister. Jerry's compassion also extended beyond the church doors as he would volunteer with Hospice, offering comfort, solace, and prayers to those grappling with illness.

In addition to his parents, Jerry was predeceased by his first wife, Kathleen (nee: Coughlin) Brucker, who passed in 2004; his brother, Frank Brucker and stepson, Michael Lawson.

Survivors include his wife of 20 years, Kathleen (nee: Murphy) Brucker; children, Colleen Strack (Craig), Karen Scheffler, Ruth Frazio (the late Michael) and Jerry E. Brucker, Jr.; 11 grandchildren, 21 great grandchildren; step-children, Larry Lawson (Debbie), Kerry Frank (Steve) and Tom Lawson (Marie); sister, Lois Brennan (the late David); sister-in-law, Ruth Coughlin and his nieces and nephews.

A calling period will be held from 8am to 9am on Friday, February 27, 2026, at St. Luke's Roman Catholic Church, 1241 State Street, Schenectady, New York 12304.

A Mass of Christian Burial will immediately follow at church.

Internment will follow at Most Holy Redeemer, Niskayuna.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be in Jerry's name to Community Hospice, 445 New Karner Rd, Albany, NY 12205.