Obituary of Louis J. Pitnell

Louis J. Pitnell, age 90 of Clifton Park passed away on Saturday, January 16, 2016 at his home surrounded by his family. He was born on October 6, 1925 in Watervliet, the son of the late Louis and Mary Ann Pitnell. He was predeceased by his daughter-in-law Paula Pitnell. Louis received his Bachelor of Arts Degree in English from Siena College, and his Master’s Degree in Guidance and Professional Services from SUNY Albany. Prior to starting his career in education, he was employed as a case worker for the Albany County Dept. of Social Services, and tutored at the Juvenile Detention Center at the Albany County Jail. He worked as an English teacher at Watervliet High School from 1955 to 1958, before beginning his tenure at Colonie Central High School from 1958 to 1985. While at Colonie, he served as the Key Club advisor, golf coach and yearbook advisor. Louis was a communicant and active member of St. Edward’s Church, serving as a Eucharistic Minister visiting the residents of local nursing homes. He volunteered much of his time at the St. Ann’s/St. John’s Outreach Center. An avid sports fan, Louis rooted for the NY Yankees and Giants. He enjoyed golfing as a member of the Edison Club. He coached teams in the Westland Hills Little League, and Pine Westland Babe Ruth. His hobbies included photography, traveling, and woodworking. Most of all, he loved spending time with his family. He is survived by his wife of 57 years; Rosalie Pitnell, two sons; Joseph Pitnell, and Michael Pitnell, his wife Lisa, his daughter Mary Louise Dooley, her husband Thomas, his grandchildren Anthony Pitnell, his wife Jaime, Daniel Pitnell, his wife Alexandra, Rachael Pitnell, Kaitlyn Goodell, her husband Jason, Sean and Molly Dooley, great-grandson Liam Pitnell. He is also survived by his sister Jean O’Brien and several nieces and nephews. Calling hours will be held on Tuesday from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Catricala Funeral Home Inc., 1597 Route 9, Clifton Park, with a funeral Mass on Wednesday at 11 a.m. at St. Edward’s Church, 569 Clifton Park Center Rd., Clifton Park. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to the Community Hospice of Saratoga, 179 Lawrence St., Saratoga Springs, NY 12866, or the St. Ann’s Outreach Center, 88 4th Ave., Albany, NY 12202.