Bernard Gieseler

Bernard F. Gieseler, 83, of Ellsworth Street, Amsterdam, NY; passed away Friday afternoon, February 10, 2017 at home.

Born in New York City on November 13, 1933, he was the son of the late Edward and Joan Mitchell Gieseler.

Bernie moved to Amsterdam as a young child and received his education in the Amsterdam school system.

After graduating he joined the local New York National Guard and then enlisted in the United States Air Force, serving in the Korean Conflict from 1950 to 1954. Bernie was awarded the United Nations Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Korean Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal and the Army of Occupation Medal (Japan).

Bernie was employed for fifteen years at Boston Children’s Hospital as Supervisor of Housekeeping. He returned to Amsterdam and was employed at St. Mary’s Hospital, also as Supervisor of Housekeeping retiring after twenty five years.

Bernie was an avid fan of the Boston Red Sox and loved gardening and sharing his crops with neighbors and friends.

His wife, Evelyn predeceased Bernie on May 20, 2014. Bernie is survived by his daughter, Susan LaConte (Joe), granddaughter, Melissa Lasher, great grandson, Tyrell Douglas, three brothers, Charles Gieseler (Linda), Edward Gieseler (Sally) , Henry Gieseler (Judy) all of Amsterdam and one sister, Marie Gieseler of the state of Florida. Many nieces and nephews also survive.

Bernie was also predeceased by a sister, Ann Girard and his stepmother, Lois Gieseler.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday morning, February 15, 2017 at 11:15 at the Riley Mortuary, Inc. 110 Division Street, Amsterdam, NY 12010.

Interment with full military honors will be at Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery in Schuylerville, NY.

Calling hours are Tuesday from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Riley Mortuary.

Memorial gifts in Bernie’s name may be made to a charity of one’s choice.

To send online condolences to the family, go to www.rileymortuaryinc.com