Obituary of Michael J. Favata

Niskayuna- Michael John Favata, 66, of Algonquin Rd, Niskayuna NY passed away on May 11, 2011 at home with loving family members at his side after a brief and courageous battle with cancer. Born in Troy, NY on June 2, 1944, he was the son of the late Elizabeth (Morelli) and Rocco Favata of Watervliet NY. He is survived by his wife of 42 years, Regina (Castle) Favata, his children: Lt Comander Michael A Favata and wife Peggy of Chicago Il, Lori J (Favata) and her husband Eduardo Guevara of Clifton Park, NY, and John N Favata of Schenectady NY, grandchildren Nicholas, Cody, and Molly Favata, and sisters Jean (Favata) Jojo and LuAnn (Favata) Broderick. He was predeceased by his daughter Valerie Jean and his brothers Paul and Raymond Favata. Michael was drafted into the United States Army in November, 1962. He was honorably discharged in November, 1964 as a Specialist 4th class. He proudly worked for the General Electric Company for 36 years, retiring in 2003. He also held positions at the Schenectady Super Steel, Long Island Rail Road and Pinkerton facilities. While at Schenectady Super Steel as the Director of Fabrications he and his team were instrumental in building the first locomotives to be shipped from Schenectady NY in 25 years for the Long Island Railroad. Michael was a devoted husband and father, supportive and caring friend and a tremendous colleague. He inspired strength and valued a strong work ethic in every facet of his life. He was a humble man who sought pleasure in the simple things of life. He enjoyed gardening, fishing, and joining his friends for coffee. Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial on Saturday, May 14th at 10 AM at St. Helen's Church, Niskayuna. Calling hours will be Friday from 4 PM to 7 PM at the Jones Funeral Home, 1503 Union St., ( at McClellan St.), Schenectady for those who wish to call. Burial with Military Honors will be in St. Patrick's Cemetery, Watervliet, NY. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions in Michael's memory may be made to St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital, 1 Computer Drive, Albany, NY 12205 or to Animal Protective Foundation of Schenectady, 51 Maple Ave., Scotia, NY 12302