Stefan Bielinski

1946 - 2024

Bielinski, Stefan
ALBANY - Stefan "Steve" Bielinski, 78, passed away on August 27, 2024. Born and raised in Albany, he was the son of the late Henry J. and Hedwig (Moszczynski) Bielinski. He was predeceased by his sister, Janet Lupe; and his brother, Henry "Hank" Bielinski.
Steve led a distinguished 43-year career with the New York State Museum, State Education Department. He retired in 2013 as Senior Historian. He received a B.A. in History, in 1969, from the State University College at Oneonta, and M.A. in Regional and Local History, from SUNY Albany, in 1986. His life's work, The Colonial Albany Social History Project, offers a portrait of the City of Albany before 1800 and includes over two decades of research on all early residents of the City, regardless of gender, age, race, or socioeconomic status. In 1999, he created The People of Colonial Albany Live Here website, as a means to continue his work and share his research on the internet for all to see and use. He wrote a number of books, scholarly articles and newsletter articles and presented hundreds of presentations over the course of his career demonstrating his love for public history. Additionally, Steve helped establish the Conference on New York State History.
History was just one part of Steve's life; he was also a sports enthusiast and lifelong N.Y. Giants, Mets and Knicks fan. He was also a player/coach in a number of softball leagues in the Capital District, and his "Dukes" softball teams were renowned under the leadership of the beloved "Dukemaster." Steve also coached basketball for many years when his daughter, Staren, played, and loved nothing more than watching her games throughout high school. An avid gardener, his flowers rivaled some of the best gardens in Albany when he was healthy, and provided a source of joy not only to the family but neighbors near and far. His love of music and musical talent were highlighted in his local band, Adrenaline, which was popular in the Capital Region in the 1970s. Sharing his love of music with his son, Matt, and granddaughter, Violet, gave him great joy. Steve also enjoyed fishing and boating, and spending time with family and friends at the family camp on Lake Champlain.
He is survived by his wife, Karen Bielinski; son, Matthew (Carrie) Bielinski; daughter, Staren (Joshua Craft) Bielinski; daughter, Melissa (Clayton) Savage, and son, Robert Nicholas (Kera Griffin) Klapp. He is also survived by three grandchildren, Violet Bielinski, Makayla and Madelynn Savage; and a number of nieces and nephews.
Steve lived a full and rich life and was known for his confident and fun-loving nature. He will remain a great source of inspiration, mental stimulation and kind-hearted generosity for the multitude of family, friends, historians, students, "Dukes," and others he leaves behind.
Steve's life will be celebrated on Sunday, September 22, 2024, from 2-5 p.m., at the New York State Museum, 4th Fl. Terrace. All are welcome.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution to the New York State Archives Partnership Trust. Donations will be allocated to Public History Programs in Steve's honor.
Condolences may be offered at www.LegacyFuneralServices.org, where a longer obituary is posted, including a link for donations and address.