Obituary of "Tom" VanValkenburgh

Mr. Wayne “Tom” VanValkenburgh, 64, of Amsterdam, NY, passed away peacefully on December 18, 2019 at St. Mary’s Hospital, surrounded by his loving family. Born on March 25, 1955 to Gene and Dorothy (Hoffman) VanValkenburgh, and was united in marriage to Jacqueline S. (Kramer) VanValkenburgh of Amsterdam on March 25, 1978, and they have shared the last 41 years together.

Tom grew up in East Schodack. In 1973, Tom graduated from Columbia High School, and went directly into the Air Force where he served 4 years active duty, followed by 2 years in the Air Force Reserves. After completing his military service, Tom worked at Owens Corning for several years before finding his way to the Watervliet Arsenal, where he spent ten years working as a machinist. In 1990, Tom started a new journey when he entered school to become a Journeyman Electrician with the Local Union #166 IBEW in Schenectady, NY. After spending 5 years as an electrician, Tom needed a change of pace and became a school bus driver for the Ballston Spa School District, where he remained until 2000. In 2000, Tom began working at the Target Distribution Center in Wilton, NY and was due to retire in March of 2020.

To those that knew Tom, he was a great brother and friend, always there to lend a hand when needed. Tom was most known for his gift of gab, he could talk to anyone and enjoyed telling stories to anyone who would listen. In his free time, Tom loved spending time playing with his many grandchildren, working in his yard, and watching baseball with his wife Jackie. He was a simple man who was loved by all who knew him. 

His loving family includes his wife, Jacqueline, his children, Shannon (Pete) Jones, Melissa (Josh) Hemby, Cara (John) VanValkenburgh, and Andrew (Amy) VanValkenburgh; his siblings, Gary VanValkenburgh, Nancy Metter, Linda Dunbeck, and Robin Taylor; his 16 grandchildren, as well as several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Tom is predeceased by his parents, Gene and Dorothy VanValkenburgh, as well as by his brother, Gene VanValkenburgh Jr.

Jacqueline and her family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to the staff at St. Mary's Hospital, and their Hospice team for all they have done for for Tom and the family during this difficult time.

In keeping with Tom’s wishes, no services will be held. Memorial contributions may be made in his memory to The American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 22478, Oklahoma City, OK 73123.