John T. Pendergast

Schenectady- John T. Pendergast passed away on April 24, 2026. He was born on February 7, 1948, in Brooklyn, New York, to Michael J. and Catherine Pendergast. In 1950, the family moved to Guilderland, New York, where he grew up.

John was a graduate of Cardinal McCloskey High School in Albany, New York, Class of 1966. In 1965, he began his commitment to public service by joining the McKownville Fire Department.

On September 6, 1966, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps Reserves, serving honorably for six years.

On February 11, 1969, John joined the Albany County Sheriff’s Patrol, where he was among the first officers assigned to the patrol division.

In 1977, John married Shirley VanBuren, embracing a ready-made family of five children: Russell, Richard, Robert, Roger, and Ronald Rue. He was predeceased by his beloved wife in 2017.

In 2020, John was diagnosed with small vessel disease, which significantly impacted his health. In 2025, he entered Riverside Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing in Castleton-on-Hudson, New York, where he resided until his passing.

A Graveside service will be held Friday May 1, 2026, at 12:00pm, held at Our Lady of Angels Cemetery 1389 Central Ave, Colonie, NY 12205.