Joseph Paul Shatas, 96, a four year resident of Wallins Corners Apartments in Amsterdam, NY; died Wednesday March 15, 2017 at Wilkinson RHCF in Amsterdam.
Mr. Shatas was born in Amsterdam NY on November 27, 1920; he was the son of the late Adomas and Kazimiera Planciunas Shatas.
Joe received his education in the Amsterdam school system and was a graduate of Wilbur H. Lynch High School. He also attended Syracuse University and received his degree in Aeronautics from Parks College of Engineering, Aviation and Technology (St. Louis University) where he also played basketball and tennis.
After returning to Amsterdam, Joe, a skilled builder, designer, with help from family and friends, built his own home on Coolidge Road. He also kept an incredible garden and spent many good times at the American Lithuanian Club.
A skilled builder and designer, Mr. Shatas was an active member of the local model airplane club. He received his pilot’s license from Siena College and worked with American Airlines and Martin Aircraft Company. Mr. Shatas loved to travel and excelled as a photographer, appreciating nothing more than a beautiful day. More than anything, Joe was a man who cherished his family.
After serving in the United States Navy Air Corp, he worked at General Electric’s Flight Test Center and retired 33 years later.
Joe was a former parishioner and communicant of St. Casimir’s Church and currently St. Mary’s Church in Amsterdam. He was a former member of the Knights of Lithuania Council 100.
Joe was predeceased by his wife, Vera Temkevich Bagdonas Shatas and is survived by one son, Joseph P. Shatas and daughter in law Mary of Amsterdam, two daughters, Christine Daly and husband, Patrick Daly of Ballston Lake, NY and Anne Shatas and husband, William Carlson of Berkshires, MA; seven grandchildren, four great grandchildren.
Friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial, which will be celebrated Tuesday March 21, 2017 at 11:15 at St. Mary’s Church, 156 East Main Street, Amsterdam, NY.
A calling hour will be held one hour prior to mass at the Blessed Sacrament Chapel at St. Mary’s
Interment will follow at St. Casimir’s Cemetery.
Memorial gifts in Joe’s name may be made to Montgomery County Office for Aging (Memo) Meals on Wheels, in appreciation for all of the meals served to Montgomery County residents. 135 Guy Park Avenue, or to St. Casimir’s Cemetery Fund, 156 East Main Street, both Amsterdam, NY 12010.
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