Joseph Ketzer, Jr , VRHS Class of 1968
Albany, NY-Joseph "Joe" Ketzer Jr. entered Eternal Life on Monday, June 16, 2024, in Inverness, Florida, surrounded by his loving family. Joe was a remarkable man whose life was a testament to courage, dedication, and an unwavering love for his family. Born to the late Joseph F. Ketzer Sr. and Dorothy (Ketzer) June, Joe was a proud native of Rensselaer. He graduated from Rensselaer High School in 1968 and soon after joined the United States Navy, where he served honorably until 1974. Joe's tenure in the U.S. Navy Seabees during the Vietnam War was marked by great courage and dedication. As a member of the Naval Mobile Construction Battalion, he played a pivotal role in constructing crucial infrastructure under arduous conditions, often amidst enemy fire. His service garnered him several prestigious accolades, including the National Defense Service Medal and the Vietnam Service Medal. Joe's military service was a source of immense pride, and his sacrifices exemplified his selflessness and commitment to safeguarding those around him. After his military service, Joe became a dedicated member of the Carpenters Local Union #291 (formerly #370) for 52 years; remaining a member in good standing until his passing. While with the Local, he worked on many jobs, including the construction of The Egg at the Empire State Plaza. Joe's dedication to his craft and his role as a general foreman and union treasurer were sources of great pride. For many years, Joe also owned his own construction business, K&T Contracting, along with his lifelong friend, Paul Therrien. In retirement, Joe split his time between Florida and New York, eventually settling in Beverly Hills, Florida. In his spare time, Joe enjoyed fishing, hunting, camping, cooking, landscaping, home improvements, automotives, riding his Harley, traveling, and spending countless hours building lasting memories with his many treasured friends. Joe's greatest joy in life, however, was his family. He was a devoted father and grandfather, teaching his loved one's countless life skills--from fishing and baseball to car repairs and home maintenance. He was always there for them, just as they will in turn always be there for one another. He created numerous cherished memories, from family vacations and holiday celebrations to the funny shirts that made his birthdays unforgettable. Joe's strength, resilience, and unwavering support were unmatched, and his legacy will be proudly carried forward by his children and grandchildren. Predeceased by his beloved wife of 20 years, Lois Ketzer, Joe leaves behind a loving family: his children Robert (Heather) Ketzer, Michael (Melissa) Ketzer, Melissa (Darrell) Gipson, Mark (Marybeth) Ketzer, Eric (Heather) Ketzer, and stepchildren Alicia Fiorino and Paul Defreest. He was the proud papa of his adoring grandchildren Alex (Mackenzie) and Ryan Weaver, Brayden and Lincoln Gipson, Christopher Fiorino, Jacob, Hannah, Aiden, Emma, Helen, Silas, Maggie, Lorien, and Kayleigh Ketzer. Joe is also survived by his lifelong friend and companion, Faye Whitford, his sisters Joyce (Martin) Sheehan and Jacqueline Decker, his brothers Kenneth Ketzer and Richard "Dick" (Elena) Ketzer, and his many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. As we bid farewell to Joe, we celebrate a life that was a shining exemplar of valor, commitment, and unconditional love. His legacy will endure through the countless lives he touched, the structures he built, and the family he cherished. May his memory serve as a source of inspiration, reminding us all to embrace life with the same unwavering spirit and to cherish the moments we share with our loved ones. Internment will be at Gerald BH Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery.