Martin G. Oesterreich

Martin G. Oesterreich, 77, passed away Monday, January 12, 2026, in Albany NY. Born in Chemnitz, Germany in 1948, Martin emigrated from Germany to Canada in 1959 and then immigrated to the United States alongside his mother, stepfather and brothers in 1964.

Settling on Staten Island, Martin attended New Dorp High School, graduating in 1967. Soon after graduation, Martin enlisted in the United States Army and served the U.S. from 1968 to 1971. During his time in the military, he served as a military policeman and was deployed overseas in Vietnam. Martin was issued an honorable discharge and was awarded a Purple Heart for wounds sustained during combat.

Upon graduating from Staten Island Community College with a dual Associates degree of Political Science and Psychology, Martin continued his education at John Jay College and graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice in 1974.

A dedicated civil servant, Martin spent his career working for the City of New York. Starting as a Staff Analyst with the Office of Economic Development in 1974, Martin held various jobs in social services and community development agencies. In 1996 he was appointed as Commissioner of the NYC Department of Youth and Community Development. The capstone of his career was his appointment to the position of Commissioner of the NYC Department of Homeless Services where he served from 1998-2002. After retiring from the City of New York, Martin was a Deputy Director at the Consortium for Worker Education.

Martin was an active member of a number of different charitable and political organizations over the years, including The Liberal Party of New York State.

Marty is survived by his wife of 53 years, Kaaren Oesterreich (Carlson), his sons Michael (Katherine), Stephen, and his daughter Kari Oesterreich Hanna (Mark), as well as four grandchildren, Maximillian Oesterreich, Lila Oesterreich, Elowen Hanna & Martin Hanna. Additionally, he is survived by his brothers Thomas Uppenbrink (Lori) & Matthew Uppenbrink (Elizabeth) and several nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life will be held during the Spring.