Obituary of James Edward Podolec

James "Whitey" Podolec, 84, of Thayer Road, Amsterdam passed away on Sunday, July 8th, 2018 at his son James' house in Broadalbin, following a brief illness.

He was born April 7th, 1934 in Norwich, Vermont to William A. Podolec and Anna (Thagut) Podolec. Whitey attended St. Mary's Institute and Amsterdam schools enjoying the love of baseball. He was a lefty pitcher who once played with the Philadelphia Phillies farm team. Whitey served in the United States Marine Corps from Feb 1954 until March 1957. While serving Whitey had the honor of guarding the President of the United States and also played as a pitcher for the Marine baseball league. Whitey married the love of his life Georgia K. McNiel on September 7th, 1957 and they enjoyed a beautiful life together until her death May 19, 1993. Whitey worked proudly as a truck driver for Boss Linco and then Carolina Freight until his retirement in 1993 and was also a member of the Teamsters. Whitey was an avid hunter and fisherman his entire life right up until the end.

Whitey is survived by his son James and his wife Shari; grandchildren, Ashlee (Steve Beebie), Shannon (Aaron Edgar) and Joshua (Emily); 4 great grandchildren, Killian, Greyson, Lillie, and Logan; Brothers, Stanley (Evelyn), and Frank (Janice), and Larry (Barb). Many nieces, nephews, and his best hunting and fishing buddy Steve Clemons also survive.

The Family would like to give a very special thank you to the doctors and nurses at both Saratoga Hospital and Mountain Valley Hospice for all of their compassion and tremendous care they gave Whitey and his family during their time of need.

In Keeping with Whitey’s wishes, there will not be a formal viewing. Family and friends are invited to attend a Graveside Service at 2:30 P.M on Friday, July 13^th, 2018 at Fairview Cemetery, 272 Upper Steadwell Ave., Amsterdam, NY. In lieu of flowers a Memorial contribution may be made to Mountain Valley Hospice, 108 Steele Ave. Ext., Gloversville, NY 12078.