Obituary of Thomas H. DeGroff

Mr. Thomas H. DeGroff, 53 years old of Co. Hwy. 138, made his final journey on Sunday November 6, 2005, with his devoted and beloved wife Jeannie, and his cherished children at his side. Tom and Jean had an incredible bond, which was only intensified by their children and precious granddaughter. He was born February 5, 1952 in Amsterdam, a son of Edward and Irene Frank DeGroff, and was a graduate of the former Wilbur H. Lynch High School, class of 1970. Tom was a self-employed contractor who owned Lifestyles Building and Remodeling. His reputation was known throughout the local communities for his quality craftsmanship. Tom will be remembered by his family and friends as a lover of life, who appreciated a good joke and always had one to tell. He was an avid golfer and belonged to the Sacandaga Boat Club where he enjoyed boating with family and friends during the summer. Tom loved the beaches and traveled to the water whenever possible. He was also a past member of the Broadalbin Kennyetto Fire Company. Survivors in addition to his wife, Jean DeGroff, whom he married November 4, 1972, include: His mother; Irene DeGroff of Amsterdam His son; Jason T. DeGroff and his wife Olga of Raleigh, N.C. His daughter; Nicole J. Rose and her husband Sandy of Raleigh, N.C. His brother; Bruce DeGroff of Westford, Mass. His grand daughter; Alexandra DeGroff Nieces, nephews and cousins also survive. Tom was predeceased by his brother Robert DeGroff and by his sister Claudia Bielecki. Private funeral services will be held at Betz, Rossi & Bellinger Family Funeral Home, 171 Guy Park. Ave., Amsterdam. Cremation will follow at Vale Crematorium. The family will receive relatives and friends on Tuesday from 4 until 7:00pm at the funeral home. At the request of Tom and his family, memorial contributions may be made to a fund to benefit the children of Mark Hughes who passed away earlier this year c/o the funeral home.