John L. Phelps

John L. Phelps, 81, of Nassau, passed away on Friday April 28, 2023. 

Born in Albany, he was the son to the late Arnold Phelps and Evelyn Batchelder Phelps and the loving husband to the late Kathleen Martin Phelps, who died in August of 2022. 

John is survived by his children James (Marlo) Phelps, Kelly (John) Halpin and Stephenie (Matthew) Biel, his eleven grandchildren Matthew, Colby, Gianna, Bella, Ava, Emily, David, Jacob, Gabriella, Sophia and Julianna, and his sister Carolyn (Gary) Cuttler.  

In addition to his mother, father and wife Kathleen, he was predeceased by his siblings Arnold Phelps, Shirley March and Barbara Steurwald.  

John was self-employed for nearly 50 years as a Master Upholsterer and was known far and wide for his quality workmanship. In his trade, John’s work was second-to-none. The breadth of his business spanned from furniture to automobiles, boats, and antique cars, to name a few. In fact, his work was featured in car hobbyist magazines for his impeccable craftsmanship. With an unwavering work ethic, John took great pride in the quality of his craft and demonstrated to his family, whom he loved dearly, the importance of a job well-done.  

When John wasn’t toiling away in his garage, he enjoyed attending his grandchildren’s sports and extracurricular activities. He also loved hosting unforgettable family/friend/neighborhood summer parties that are still talked about fondly to this day. If you heard the clink of horseshoes, you could be sure it was John with his family and friends. John was also passionate about his NY sports teams and could always be heard cheering on the Giants, Rangers and Yankees. His other hobbies included darts, golf, fishing, camping, and boating, where he was always willing to teach everyone how to waterski. John and Kathy were members of Shady Harbor boat club and often took long, leisurely boating trips with friends down the beautiful Hudson River.  

Family and friends are invited and may call on Saturday May 6, 2023 from 9:00 am to 11:00 am with a funeral service immediately following, all at Wynantskill Funeral Home, 294 Whiteview Road, Wynantskill. Private burial with family will follow at Albany Rural Cemetery, Menands. Please visit www.wynantskillfh.com.   

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