Obituary of Gary Robert Amell

Schenectady Gary R. Amell, 70, of 82 Western Parkway, was tragically taken from us on Good Friday afternoon, March 29th after being struck by a car, sustaining multiple traumatic injuries. Gary was crossing Union Street after attending Stations of the Cross at St. Kateri Tekakwitha Church (the former St. Helen's). Gary was administered the "Last Rites" of the Church on the scene by pastor Fr. Bob Longobucco and associate, Fr. Michael Taylor. He was taken to Albany Medical Center but died shortly thereafter. Gary was born in Schenectady to the late Henry and Kathryn Reinhart Amell and was a life long Schenectady resident. Gary was an Orthopedic Technician and was employed by St. Clare's Hospital in Schenectady for 35 years. After retiring he continued to work at St. Clare's and then later at Ellis Hospital. Earlier in life Grand Union Supermarkets, Stewart's Shops & Wallace's Department Store in downtown Schenectady, employed him. Some of Gary's favorite pastimes included: Biking, shopping (returning items), eating out with friends, going to movies, plays, opera, attending church/religious services and events and of course, buying new cars. Gary was known and loved by countless people. His personality and laughter were unique and will never be forgotten. He was often "the life of the party". Gary was very generous and helped many people over the years. It was amazing that no matter where he went it was inevitable that someone would come over to him to thank him and acknowledge the care and kindness he had shown to a relative or friend that he had cared for in the hospital. Gary had his own health crisis several years ago when he was diagnosed with colon cancer. He faced this challenge with courage and determination and one year later received a clean bill of health. Gary was a devout and religious man who recited the "Holy Office" every morning. He had also been a Dominican Brother taking the name of St. Martin of the Assumption, after St. Martin de Porres. Pope John the XXIII, Gary's favorite pope, canonized Martin in 1962. One of St. Martin's attributes was his ability to communicate with animals. Gary had a great love for animals especially his own precious dogs. His brother, Glen A. Amell of Fort Meyers, Florida, survives him along with his nieces and nephew: Melissa Amell of Mt. Juliet, TN, Erica Amell-Nute of Ashland City, TN and Noel Amell and Gregory Amell both of Nashville, TN. Gary also leaves behind his canine companions: Chico, Rocky, Beau and Ziggy and feathered friend, Max, as well as countless friends and acquaintances who will miss having him in their lives. A Liturgy of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, April 6th, at 12 Noon at St. Madeleine Sophie Church, 3500 Carman Road, Schenectady, NY 12303. A period of visitation will be held at the church on Saturday morning from 10:30 to 12 Noon. Interment immediately following the service will take place in Most Holy Redeemer Cemetery, 2501 Troy Road, Niskayuna, NY 12309. In lieu of flowers, for those who wish to remember Gary in a special way, please make a contribution in his memory to the Animal Protective Foundation of Schenectady, 53 Maple Avenue, Scotia, NY 12302 or to the Schenectady City Mission, 425 Hamilton Street, Schenectady, NY 12305. Mass Monday, May 27, 2013 St. Madeleine Sophie Church 3500 Carman Road Schenectady, New York, United States