John Chidsey , VRHS Class of 1967
John J. "Jack" Chidsey Jr., 75, passed away peacefully on December 16, 2024, in the comfort of his home, with his beloved fiancée and life partner, Sharon; and their Boston terrier, Frankie, by his side. Son of the late Sophie Scherbyk Chidsey, he was born in Albany, N.Y., and raised in Rensselaer, N.Y. He graduated from Van Rensselaer High School in 1967. While in high school and for several years after, he worked at McDonald's restaurants throughout the Capital District, eventually rising to the position of store manager. In 1973, Jack began his long and successful career with the John Hancock Insurance Company as an agent. It was after work one evening in 1984 that he met the person who later would become his future partner in life, Sharon. In 1993, he completed the LUTCF program - a professional designation for insurance and financial advisors. Jack retired as an active agent in 2005, maintaining a retired agent's contract until 2018, when he sold his book of business and officially retired after 45 years of dedicated service. During his tenure, he served as an agent, registered representative and briefly held a staff manager position. He built strong relationships with clients and colleagues and earned numerous awards and recognitions. Jack enjoyed many of life's simple pleasures; concerts at SPAC, visits to the Saratoga Race Track, playing the slots at the casino, trying his luck with the Lottery and scratch off tickets, and dominating his opponents at Scrabble. Jack always looked forward to and really enjoyed his fall vacations up north with Sharon, but found great comfort and contentment in being at home. In the warmer weather, he could be found sitting on the patio in the evening sipping a cocktail, enjoying his eclectic mix of music, the company of neighbors and friends, playing with the dog, or listening to a ball game on the radio. Jack also spent a lot of time on the front porch enjoying the fireplace in cooler weather, keeping an eye on the neighborhood year round while watching the business and finance channels, ball games, or a selection of horse races on the TV. He had a vested interest in the world of finance, dedicating much of his time to researching and managing his own investments. He followed Syracuse Orange Basketball and was a devoted NY Yankee fan. He enjoyed thoroughbred horse racing and loved the challenge of handicapping and betting on some races. Jack also spent hours planning, preparing and cooking wonderful meals for himself and Sharon. In addition to his mother, he was preceded in death by his younger brother, Robert K. "Bob" Chidsey. He is survived by Sharon Kiniry, his life partner of nearly 40 years; their Boston terrier, Frankie; an aunt, and several cousins. Jack will be remembered as a deeply loving, kind, and generous man. His presence offered a steady source of comfort and strength, a reflection of the unwavering love and support he so readily gave. He possessed a quick wit and a wonderful sense of humor that brought joy to those around him. Highly organized and practical, Jack approached life with thoughtfulness and integrity, leaving a lasting impact on everyone who knew him. Heartfelt thanks to the staff at Community Hospice for the compassionate care and support they provided. Sharon extends her deepest gratitude for the many kind condolences and expressions of sympathy following Jack's passing. Your thoughtfulness has brought great comfort during this difficult time. One of Jack's most cherished pastimes was walking his beloved, late dog, Freddy, through Schenectady's Central Park. Along those paths, he met many friendly faces - people and pets - who became part of his story.