Obituary of Manfred Armbruster

Manfred Armbruster (Papa to his family and close friends) passed away peacefully on July 18th at the age of 77, in his home, as was his wish. Manfred lived a long, beautiful life.  He was born and raised in a small village in the mountains of the Black Forest in Germany. After completing school, Manfred spent four years as an apprentice under his father, to learn the Pattern Making trade. Upon completion of this education, he worked in Switzerland and in Berlin before joining the German Peace Corp and serving in Ghana, in western Africa, for 2 1/2 years. At the age of 27, Manfred returned home to Germany, and was quickly offered employment from multiple companies in the United States. Luckily he chose to take a position in Quincy, Illinois, setting him on the path that led to meeting Ruth, the love of his life. They married in 1969 after a brief courtship. Together they relocated to New York State in 1971, where Manfred worked as a Master Pattern Maker for GE in Schenectady, and later Sandy Hill in Hudson Falls.

During much of his adult life, Manfred enjoyed creating wood carvings, one-of-a-kind furniture, and other wooden works of art. He also spent time gardening, vacationing by the mountains and water, and entertaining family and friends. In retirement, Manfred expanded his repertoire to include gourmet cooking for his family. Manfred made an impression wherever he went, and he will be greatly missed.

Manfred is predeceased by his parents, Hilda (née Weber) and Alfred, both of Germany. Manfred is survived by Ruth (née Dailing), his wife of nearly 49 years; his daughter Gisela (Jason Long) of Penfield, NY; his son Michael (Debbie) of Glenville; two grandchildren, Justin and Madison Long; his sisters Margot Meyer (Fred) and Annemarie Schneider (Klaus), who both reside in Germany, as well as many other German relatives.

The family would like to thank Manfred's long time physician and steadfast advocate, Dr. Audra Hanley, the staff at Saratoga Hospital for their care during Manfred's stay, and Community Hospice for their help realizing Manfred's final wishes. Calling hours will be held on Saturday, July 21st, at the Glenville Funeral Home, 9 Glenridge Road from 3:00-5:00 pm, followed by a private family gathering. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Community Hospice at www.communityhospice.org.