Brian Connolly

Connolly, Brian NISKAYUNA Brian Connolly, age 52, passed away on July 31, 2021, at home, surrounded by his family, as he wanted. Born in Cork City, Ireland to Ann Connolly (nee Kenneally) and the late Eddie Connolly, Brian went to Cork Institute of Technology studying mechanical engineering. After graduation, he began work as a field engineer for General Electric, taking him to Austria, Argentina and Finland, to name a few. On one auspicious assignment in England, he met his wife, Gynger. They attended motorbike races (their first date!), and traveled around Europe, and subsequently had their daughter Sarah while living in Ascot. He and Gynger then relocated to Schenectady, where Elyssa was born. Brian continued to travel as a commercial sales leader, but mostly spent his time with family at home, at their camp in Bolton Landing, or with his family back in Ireland. Any spare time was spent doing what he loved: golfing (with a 2 handicap!), curling, and rearranging all plans to watch a Liverpool game. He loved having a drink with friends at Wolff's Biergarten, and a good meal at the bar at Mario's ("Best wings in town!"). Brian loved entertaining his friends and having fun, whether that was having a bonfire in the backyard or hosting his infamous Paddy's Day parties. He will be forever remembered as someone who loved having fun with his friends and family, with a Jameson in hand. His enthusiasm, good humor, sincerity and courage are an inspiration to us all. He is survived by his loving wife Gynger "Karen" Connolly and his daughters, Sarah and Elyssa. He is also survived by mother Ann Connolly; his brother and sister Mark and Susan of Cork; his sister-in-law Fidelma and brother-in-law Mark McMahon; his uncle Tony Kenneally of Skerries, Dublin; his niece and nephews, cousins, and too many friends to count. In addition to his dad, he was also predeceased by his mother-in-law and father-in-law, Gert and Henry Frick. We cannot emphasize enough our gratitude to everyone who helped us during Brian's valiant battle. Whether a call, text, plate, or just a hello, Brian truly appreciated every single person. Most notably, our family is forever indebted to Mike O'Hara, Niall Cuthbert, and Janette Gibbs, and the army of friends who had Brian's back. There will be no calling hours. A funeral Mass, to which relatives and friends are invited to attend, will be celebrated on Friday, August 6, at 9 a.m. in St. Kateri Tekakwitha Church, 1803 Union St., Niskayuna. The family requests no flowers, plants, or gifts. Donations may be made in Brian's name to Sunnyview Rehabilitation Hospital. The family only requests that you enjoy a good drink with friends and family, and remember "You'll Never Walk Alone."