Albertin, Mary Contompasis
ALBANY — Mary Contompasis Albertin, born in Albany, September 9, 1949, died Saturday, October 27, 2018. A lifelong resident of Albany, Mary (or Mariah as she preferred to a few close friends) was a woman of passion, intelligence and kindness. She was a Renaissance person who cannot begin to be captured in this short piece. She never stopped learning and growing throughout her life. With her sister Margaret, she built and operated a jewelry store where everything was their own creation and, at a time, when few women operated businesses. She pursued her passion for archaeology attaining a double major bachelor’s degree in the subject at 50. She worked for many years in the field at Peeble’s Island Historic Preservation and even traveled to Egypt. She also had a passion for estate and garage sales as compliments to her passion for archaeology and history. Wherever Mary spent her time she left with lifelong friends. Her caring went well beyond the norm whether helping nurture nephews, providing support for her extended family, creating a safe home for a struggling friend with young children or providing a home and support for aunts and parents in their later years.
She always found time for all around her, giving whatever was needed, whenever, and without regard to the cost to her. Typical of her was to leave extravagant tips when it was clear a person or worker needed a little help. She touched so many people so many times. She will be missed greatly by many, but none more than her husband who forever learned what kindness and love meant.
A special thanks to her nephew Samson, who throughout her long health ordeal, made a special effort to to be there in so many little ways but especially her difficult last two weeks.
Survivors include her devoted husband, Richard. Sisters, Margaret Contompasis, Penelope Contompasis, and Joan Pomelitto (husband Frank); and brothers, James, Peter and Harry. Nephews, Alex, Max, Samson, Peter Crandall and Matthew Remsbecher; and niece Leanne.
Calling hours will he held in the Hans Funeral Home, 1088 Western Ave., Albany, Wednesday from 4-7 p.m. Relatives and friends are invited. A private graveside service will be held in the spring. To leave a message of condolence for the family, please visit www. Hansfuneralhome.com