Obituary of Ronald C. Felthousen

Ronald C. Felthousen passed away at home on October 14th, 2014 after a valiant battle with skin cancer. Born July 27th, 1930 in Niskayuna, Ron was the second son of the late J.Edwin and Viola Felthousen. He is survived by Marie (Sarantos) his wife of 57 years and his siblings Kenneth Felthousen, Bernetta Wuerslin, Robert Felthousen, Marilyn Greene, Nancy Ridnour and many nieces and nephews. He was pre-deceased by his brother Russell Felthousen. Ron graduated from Nott Terrace High school where he was a star athlete. He graduated from Cornell University in 1952 with a Bachelor of Science degree in horticulture. He received his N.R.O.T.C. Commission as Lieutenant at that time. He often said that NROTC required taking courses more challenging than the ones he took at University. As part of his military service, he was sent to South Carolina where he received training for mine counter measure school and anti-submarine warfare. From there, he was sent to California where he received further training before shipping out on the mine sweeper USS Ransom, as executive officer, bound for the North Atlantic. When the Korean War ended, he resigned his commission. He was honorably discharged with commendation from his Commander. He often said this was an exciting time for him, meeting interesting people while traveling throughout California to its many ports. Upon returning home, he joined the family business as landscape architect, grower and ultimately as a florist with his brother Robert at Felthousen's Inc. They later brought in his nephew Mark as the 4th generation to carry on the business. Ron's love of nature provided him with great pleasure and spirituality. He enjoyed fishing and photographing animals, birds and flowers. He wrote poetry in his youth and was very fond of reciting long works by the old poets. He enjoyed antiquing, having a fine eye for things of beauty. He also enjoyed opera, particularly the Three Tenors. Ron had a close relationship with his employees. He deeply appreciated their dedication, friendship, and care during his many years while working in the Cohoes and Troy locations of Felthousen's Florist. A special Thank You to Mark and Bob Felthousen for the attention and help they gave to Ron during his illness. Visitation from 12 PM to 2 PM at Jones Funeral Home, 1503 Union St, (at McClellan St.), Schenectady, NY. Following the visitation at the funeral home, a reception for Family and Friends will follow at Felthousen's Florist on Van Antwerp Road Niskayuna, NY, from 2:30 to 5:00.