Obituary of Joseph W. Kurpiel

Joseph W. Kurpiel, 96, beloved husband of the late Stefania "Estelle" Wajda Kurpiel passed away peacefully at home on Monday, August 2, 2010 with his beloved family at his side. Born and educated in Adams, MA, he was the son of the late Teofil and Anna (Bednarczk) Kurpiel. He was employed by Alleghany Ludlum Steel Corp. as a extrusion press operator for over 36 years until retiring in 1975. Residing in Latham since 1959, Joe was a longtime communicant of St. Ambrose Church. He belonged to the Colonie Senior Golf League & also enjoyed watching Red Sox games. A life-time member of the Troy YMCA, he taught & coached weightlifting. He was a member of the Colonie Elks Lodge #2191and the Colonie Knights of Columbus Council #3394 and a member of their dart leagues. Seeing the original Barnam & Bailey Circus in 1919 with his father, Joe's interest in gymnastics was born and by 1929 he traveled all over the New England States competing as a team. But Joe's passion was weightlifting. New England State championship titles were won in three consecutive years 1935, 1936, 1937. At age 75, Joe continued to lift and set world's records by lifting over 400 pounds in the United States Powerlifting Federation until age 84. His competitive spirit and determination helped him win championships for nearly 70 years. He is survived by his loving daughters, Joan L. (Frederick) Gabriel of Eastham, MA; Linda J. (Dr. Steven M.) Lynch of Slingerlands; his two brothers Fred and Frank Kurpiel both of Adams, MA. 7 grandchildren, Steven, Kristina, Susan Lynch, Christopher, Matthew, Jason Gabriel and Julie Verostick; 16 great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday August 5 at 9:00 am at St. Ambrose Church, 347 Old Loudon Road, Latham. Relatives and friends are invited and may call on Wednesday from 4-7 pm at the Dufresne & Cavanaugh Funeral Home 149 Old Loudon Rd., Latham, NY In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to Community Hospice of Rensselaer County 295 Valley View Blvd., Rensselaer, NY 12144 or to the charity of one's choice. Interment will take place in St. Stanislaus Cemetery in Adams, MA For directions, information or to light a memory candle for the family please visit www.dufresneandcavanaugh.com