Andrew Batchelder

Batchelder, Andrew
TROY - Andrew J. Batchelder passed away on Wednesday, March 19, 2025. Born in Niskayuna, January 14, 1948, to parents Kenneth and Ellen Milrick Batchelder. Graduated Colonie Central High School in 1966 and spent two years as a Mason Apprentice with his brothers. In 1968, he joined the U.S. Army and was a decorated Vietnam veteran. He was awarded the Army Commendation medal, the Good Conduct medal and several others. After returning from Vietnam, Andy became a career mason and worked with many well known companies including Colonie Masonry, Centinni Masonry, BBL Construction and Bast Hatfield until he retired. In 1996, he was awarded the John H. Hourigan Jr. Memorial Award in appreciation for his dedication to community service and volunteer work on every project. Andy was best known and will be remembered for his generosity, his humor, his dedication to friends and family and his title as "The Tractor Man" to hundreds of children over 17 years at Pop's Lake Campground. He is survived by his beloved wife, Cathy; son, Jim Farrell (Kristy); daughters, Jennifer Watts (Stefan) and Melissa Laird (Jason); stepson, Al Articolo (Lisa); honorary sons, John Flansburg and Jason Bonesteel; brothers, Bob Batchelder (Sally) and Pat Batchelder (Karen); sister, Edith "Tootie" Hanke (Herb). His cherished grandchildren, Ryan Baranski (Miranda) and Hanna Baranski; great-grandchild, Bradley Cerecedes; god-children, Erica, Sara and Anthony Cardinuto; step-grandchildren, Matt and Nick Articolo, Brianna Paskevich (Joe). Predeceased by his parents, and brothers, Mike and Bill Batchelder. One of Andy's greatest joys was to be in front of a warm campfire with a cold cocktail and surrounded by laughing family and friends. To him, it was like a little piece of Heaven. Many thanks to the wonderful staff at the Stratton VA Medical Center, especially Tess, who were all exceptional in their support and care for him and special thanks to his friend and neighbor, Todd, who, for years, watched over him and was always, always there anytime Andy needed help of any kind. Bless them. Services for Andy will be held at the Frank P. McDonald and Son Funeral Home at 870 2nd Ave., in Troy, on Thursday, March 27, at 10 a.m. Friends are invited and may call on Wednesday, from 4 to 6 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to: VA Medical Center, 113 Holland Ave., Albany, N.Y. 12208 Attn: Dom Dominguez - Veterans Services or: United Veterans Beacon House, 1715 Union Blvd., Bay Shore, N.Y. 11706.
For online condolences, please visit mcdonaldandsonfuneralhome.com