Obituary of Sandra L. Harrsen

Niskayuna — Sandra L. Harrsen 71 , of Niskayuna died Friday July 15, 2011 at St. Peters Hospice Inn. Sandra is survived by her husband John of 49 years; three sons, John, Christopher and Erik and four grandchildren. Her sister, Susan Ruckdeschel (Ray). Sandra was born in Newburgh, NY, daughter of the late Benjamin and Gladys Fraser. Sandra graduated from Wells College with a degree in mathematics. She taught math and was a field director for the Girl Scouts of America before staying at home for 10 years to raise her three sons. While at home, she earned a Master's degree in mathematics. She returned to work by taking a programming job with White Motor Corporation in Cleveland, Ohio. Subsequently, she had several IT management assignments with General Electric (GE) in Ohio. Connecticut. and New York. When GE sold her division she joined Software Sourcing Company. She next was recruited as an engagement manager with the developing professional services of Sun Microsystems. She ran businesses for Sun in Washington, DC , and Boston, retiring as Northeast Director for Sun Professional Services in 2003. Since her retirement, Sandra has enjoyed studying the piano, skiing, swimming, and spending time with friends and family, especially her four grandchildren. She also enjoys giving back to the community through volunteer activities --- the most significant of which is for the Red Cross, where she supports the local chapter's IT initiatives. For her outstanding work in this area, Sandra was awarded the Esther Hoffman Volunteer Award. One of the highest awards given by the local chapter. In 2010, Sandra was selected as one of 25 individuals from across the United States to supply input for a book entitled "The Gift of Wisdom". All these contributors were willing to share their thoughts and experiences so that others might benefit from their knowledge. The book is due to be released in August. Calling hours to which relatives and friends are invited wil be Sunday July 17 from 4 PM to 6 PM at the Jones Funeral Home, 1503 Union St., (at McClellan St.), Schenectady. Burial will be in Woodlawn Cemetery, New windsor, NY. Memorial contributions, in lieu of flowers, may be made in memory of Sandra to the American Red Cross.