Obituary of Jay M. Brakman

Niskayuna- Jay M. Brakman 67, died peacefully Monday, May 31, 2010, at his home in Niskayuna, New York following a long illness. He was born in Washington, D.C., son of the late Samuel and Frances Jacobson Brakman. Jay received his Bachelors Degree in Aeronautical Engineering from the University of Maryland in 1965. Immediately out of college Jay started his career in 1965 at the General Electric Company in the Chief Engineering office of the Aircraft Engine Business Group. He worked and received his Masters Degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Cincinnati in 1973. Later in his career, Jay specialized in project management of large complex power plant installations worldwide. Jay was a passionate individual who strived for excellence in all he did, this was most noted by his friends and colleagues, when he returned to work at GE following a catastrophic stroke and continued to work for another five years, retiring in 2003. He had a fondness for trains and was an avid collector. Mr. Brakman is survived by his beloved partner and a devoted caregiver of the past 13 years Sylvia Niedhammer, and his loyal dog Lucky. Mr. Brakman is also survived by his son Steven M. Brakman and his wife Alessa, their two sons, Chase and Matthew of Franklin TN and son Alan J. Brakman of Florida. His cousins Barbara Littlefield of the Midwest and Ronald Lebeiko of Ohio, who Jay grew up with and they were like brothers and other family members. Long time best friends and college mates, Alan and Kay Stern in San Antonio, TX. Special thanks to Dr. Lawrence Weiner, the Staff of Schenectady Hospice, his nurses Jan and Louise, Gentle Home Care especially to the Aides Jay's little person Erin, the strong one Rex and Jeanne for their long hours of dedication to making him comfortable. Bob Fleming who helped him with P.T. after his stroke and broken hip. To Tammy who stepped in and helped care for Jay in these many long months. Most of all the help, support and guidance that with just a SOS was right there for 13 years with his stroke in 1997 until the very end, Marybeth Stevens-Carhidi - A BIG THANK YOU. A funeral service will be held on Thursday at 1 PM at the Jones Funeral home, 1503 Union St. (at McClellan St.), Schenectady. Calling hours will be Thursday from 11AM to 1 PM at the funeral home for those who wish to call. In lieu of flowers, donations in Jay's memory may be made to Community Hospice of Schenectady or to the American Cancer Society.