Bernard "Bernie" F. Schunicht

Bernard “Bernie” F. Schunicht, 86, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on Tuesday, March 17, 2026.

Born in Louisville, Kentucky to the late John B. and Virgie R. Schunicht, where he resided before moving to the Capital District in 1962.

Bernie graduated from RPI with a Master’s Degree in Chemical Engineering in the spring of 1964. During this time, is when he met his future wife, Ellie. While attending college, he worked at Knolls Atomic Power Laboratory (KAPL) until he retired in the summer of 2002.

Bernie had a passion for gardening. He especially loved his hot peppers and making his “Papas Hot Dust”. His love for nature extended into many aspects of his life. He was a Boy Scout Leader for Troop 277 and hiked many of the Adirondack mountains. He loved to camp at Buck Pond and in the winter could be found ice fishing. While at home, he enjoyed woodworking, making things like photo frames. Later in his life, he became an avid cyclist, competing throughout the North East and Empire State Games, winning several gold medals.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his sister, Barbara Crutcher.

Bernie is survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Eleanor A. Schunicht. As well as their children, Geoffery (Wendy) Schunicht, Rebecca (Rick) Schunicht Johnson, Kathleen (Paul) Treasure, and Erin (Kevin) Schulz and was the proud Papa to his nine grandchildren.

On behalf of the family, a special thank you goes to the staff at Community Hospice, especially Stephanie W., Joe, Mikiya, and Rachael.

Friends and family are welcome to gather on Monday, March 23 from 11 a.m. to 1p.m. with a service to immediately follow at New Comer Cremations and Funerals, 181 Troy Schenectady Rd., Watervliet, NY 12189. Burial will be held at Memory Gardens, 983 Watervliet Shaker Rd, Albany, NY 12205.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Bernie’s name to the Community Hospice.