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BORN
1957
DIED
2024
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Roland Widmer Obituary
TROY - Roland Widmer, age 67, passed away on Thursday, November 21, 2024, after a prolonged illness at St. Peter's Hospital, with his beloved, Michele, and daughter, Katelynn, by his side.
Roland was the son of the late Kurt and Denise Widmer. He was born on February 24, 1957, in Bern, Switzerland, and emigrated with his parents to the United States in 1959. He spent his early childhood in Queens, N.Y., before the family moved to the Catskills and eventually to Troy. An avid skier in his youth, Roland earned a state ranking in downhill ski racing.
Roland was a proud 1975 graduate of LaSalle Institute. He later played basketball at the College of Santa Fe and apprenticed in southern Calif. He later joined the family business, Helmbold's Hot Dogs, to which he dedicated much of his life. Roland's love for music, sports, food, traveling and his family remained a lasting passion.
Roland is survived by his beloved, Michele; son, Christopher (Danielle) Widmer; and daughter, Katelynn (Tim) Meppen; his cherished grandchildren, Angelina, Nicolette, Jordyn, Grayson, and Jackson; his sisters, Marilyn (Michael) Widmer and Heidi (David) Yetto; as well as several nieces, nephews, and extended family in the U.S., Switzerland, and Australia.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to Annette and Mike for their unwavering support; as well as to his sister, Marilyn, and her husband, Mike, for their love and devotion.
Roland's love for his family, especially his children and grandchildren, was boundless. He was always their biggest supporter and the light of his life. His grandchildren brought him joy and strength, and he cherished every moment spent with them. Roland will be deeply missed, and his absence leaves a quiet space in the hearts of all who knew him.
Relatives and friends are invited to visit with the family on Sunday, November 24, 2024, from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m., at W.J. Lyons, Jr. Funeral Home, 1700 Washington Avenue, Rensselaer. A funeral home service will be held the following morning, Monday, November 25, 2024, at 11:30 a.m. Burial will follow in Bloomingrove Cemetery, North Greenbush.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Roland Widmer
George Quine
November 27, 2024
May your memories help comfort you. Rest In Peace, Roland!
Laurie Kinnicutt
November 25, 2024
To the family of Roland Widmer
I've know Roland since the late 70's and he was a gentile and passionate person. My heart and prayers are with you all.
Karen Kane
November 24, 2024
Dear Chris, I am so sorry to hear of your Dad´s passing . I didn´t know he was ill. Just know that I am thinking of you and your family. Sincerely, Karen Kane
Keith Kennedy
November 24, 2024
Keith Kennedy
November 24, 2024
Roland was one of my first friends I made at LaSalle in 1971. In the fall of our first year we were on the cross country team together . One day he invited me to play golf with him on a course near his home. We got there and quickly found out that we couldn´t play because neither of us had any money. The solution was simple for two young teenagers. We´ll just sneak onto the course when no one is looking. This we did and continued to have a good time. The fun ended when we finished up and came under scrutiny by a club official. Whatever story we concocted didn´t convince him and we were promptly ejected from the premises.We found our way back to Roland´s house where I met his mom. We were sitting at the kitchen table when Roland asked his mom if I could stay for dinner. Mrs. Widmer hesitated for just a second and then said "sure" although she wondered out load about what she was going to feed us. In a short time she graciously put a delicious meal on the table. Rest in peace Roland. I pray that the Widmer family will find some measure of consolation and peace as you mourn your loved one. Roland will be missed.
Keith Kennedy
LaSalle 1975
Denise Livolsi
November 23, 2024
Rest in Eternal Peace Roland. Condolences to Chris and his Family.
Robin vroman pitts
November 23, 2024
My thoughts and prayers go out to the family! May Roland Rest in Peace!
Meg Sheridan
November 23, 2024
Michele and Katelynn, Thoughts and prayers to you and your family.
Mary, Meghan, Mike, and Matt Sheridan.
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Funeral services provided by:
W.J. Lyons, Jr. Funeral Home, Inc.1700 Washington Ave, Rensselaer, NY 12144
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