Kenneth C. Petersen

Kenneth C. Petersen, 89, passed away peacefully at home on August 5, 2025, surrounded by the love and comfort of family.

Born in Chicago, he was the son of the late Clarence and Theresa (Nee Tomazin) Petersen. On January 21, 1956, at the age of 19, he married Gladys Boyte Dobry, whom he met while working at Neisner’s Dime Store in Chicago. Together, they raised six children. At age 28, he, his wife and family moved to Glenville, New York in order for him to work at Schenectady Chemicals, which later became Schenectady International.

During his 34-year tenure at Schenectady International, he rose from group leader in research to, after 15 years, serving as president with operations in more than a dozen countries. He developed 12 U.S. patents, and coauthored many publications in chemical journals.

Prior to coming to new York from Illinois, he was educated at St. Philips High School, Crane Jr College, Wright Jr. College, and Northwestern University, earning a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry and a Master of Science in Organic Chemistry. While pursuing his education at night, he worked at Glidden Central Research Lab, focusing on protein research and contributing to the development of soybean-based products.

He later joined Acme Resin Co., where he conducted phenolic resin research and successfully developed several products for the foundry and molding industries.

Ken was a lifelong member of the American Chemical Society, where he served as Chairman of the Eastern New York Section and a member of the Nominating Committee. Additionally, he was deeply involved in the community, serving on numerous boards, including: Trustco for 20 years, Proctors Theatre for 17 years, Boys & Girls Club of Schenectady for 28 years, Sunnyview Hospital for 26 years, Schenectady Economic Development Council for 20 years, Trustee of the Capital Region YMCA for 8 years, Board of Directors of the United Way of Schenectady for 4 years, SUNY Applied Science Advisory Council PAC for 3 years and, Schenectady County Community Business Center for 3 years.

Throughout his life, he enjoyed a wide range of hobbies, including vegetable gardening, rockhounding, fossil hunting, metal detecting, amateur magic, as well as stamp and coin collecting.

He had a deep passion for fishing, enjoying both fresh and saltwater alike. He spent many years fishing in Alaska, Florida and on Saratoga Lake. He also had a great love for playing cards, particularly poker and bridge, both casually and in tournaments. An avid golfer, he was a proud member of the Mohawk Club for over 20 years.

He is survived by his wife of almost 70 years, Gladys, 5 children, 13 grandchildren, 13 greatgrandchildren, his sister Kathleen Koca and sister-in-law Frances Vasek. One son and two grandchildren predeceased him.

Ken will be cremated, and his remains will later be scattered at his favorite fishing spot on Hutchinson Island, Florida. His family will accompany him for this final journey.

 A Mass will be held on August 21st at 10am at the Immaculate Conception Church located at 400 Saratoga Rd. in Glenville.  

Memorial contributions should be made to the Boys & Girls Club of Schenectady, PO Box 466, Schenectady, NY, 12301, City Mission in Schenectady, NY., or The American Cancer Society.