Erwin A. Betzweiser

Erwin A. Betzwieser, 88, died peacefully Tuesday May 8, 2018. Born in Albany, he was the son of the late Albert and Katarina Betzwieser of Albany, New York.   He was a 1947 graduate of the former Vincentian Institute and a 1951 graduate of Siena College, remaining a loyal men’s basketball fan throughout his life.

Former member of Knights of Columbus and Army National Guard, he spent his career at New York Telephone/Verizon as a Professional Engineer, retiring after over 40 years of service. Ernie was a longtime active parishioner of Mater Christi Parish where he was a regular Usher for Sunday mass.   A skilled woodworker and avid golfer, Ernie enjoyed weekly rounds with the ROBs of Pine Haven Country Club.   Most of all, “Papa Ernie” enjoyed spending time with his family.

He was the beloved husband of 51 years of Margaret Betzwieser who pre-deceased him in 2003. Loving father of Thomas Betzwieser (Lynne) of Hickory, NC, Lynda Rao (Steve) of Scottsdale, AZ, Nancy Minehan (Dave) of Albany, James Betzwieser (Linda) of Naples, FL, Mary Anne Lewis (Glenn) of Zebulon, NC and Laura Rooney (Bill) of Ludlow, MA. cherished grandfather of Katie Stamps (Stephen), Sarah Fraser (Bryce), Alex Betzwieser (Kirstie), Jennifer Betzwieser, Adam Betzwieser, Michael Rao, Derek Rao (Mackenzie), Maggie Minehan, Harry Minehan, Carly Minehan, Eric Betzwieser (Phoebe), Kevin Betzwieser, Lauren Olbrych (Alex), Megan Galvin, Jenny Galvin, Catherine Lewis, Graham Lewis, William Lewis, Allie Rooney, Casey Rooney and Kate Rooney. Great grandfather of Isabella, Evelyn, Lillian, Everett, Griffin and Patrick, Ernie was pre-deceased by his daughter Katherine (Brian) Galvin of Scituate, MA and sister Anne Deitz of Albany. He is also survived by many extended family members and friends.

On behalf of Ernie, the family would like to express appreciation to Dr. Mary Ellen Drislane and the medical staff of the Albany Regional Kidney Center.