August Charles Franze

August C. “Gus” Franze, of Glenmont, New York, passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 16, 2021. He was born on October 17, 1932, in Albany, New York, to Charles A. Franze and Augustina (Amodeo) Franze. Gus graduated from Philip Schuyler High School and Colgate University. He served in the U.S. Air Force for three years as 1st Lt. Navigator-Radar Observer. After his honorable discharge, he received a master’s degree in Education from SUNY Oneonta. A natural teacher, Gus began his career in education teaching in Bethlehem (Hamagrael). From there, he served as vice principal in Burnt Hills (Glenhaven). He became principal in Guilderland (Altamont) and South Colonie schools (Forest Park, Sand Creek, Shaker Road) and retired in 1991, when he took on the role of “Papa” and playmate to his only grandchild. With boundless interest in and energy to devote to others and to his favorite activities, through the years Gus coached track at Bethlehem Central High School; volunteered with the St. Vincent de Paul Society and at the Cathedral of Immaculate Conception food pantry. A lifelong runner, Gus regularly competed in the senior division of the Empire State Games. His students, teammates, fellow teachers, family and friends knew him as an affable, athletic, kind man, with a great sense of humor. Gus is survived by his wife of sixty years, Grace; their daughter, Jeanne Marie Wendth, and her husband, David, of Waterford, New York; his cherished granddaughter, Kirsten Wendth Miles, and her husband, Jack, of Arvada, Colorado; his sister, Marie Howder of Virginia, sisters-in-law Cecilia Comstock (Doug) and Carol Franze of Florida; his canine buddy, Toby; as well as many nephews, nieces, cousins and friends. He was predeceased by his parents and his brothers, Anthony and Charles. The family would like to express their heartfelt thanks to the staff of Schuyler Ridge in Clifton Park for the gentle and compassionate care they gave Gus during the past year and a half. For the safety of family and friends during the Covid-19 pandemic, a private service was held. In lieu of flowers and in keeping with Gus’s spirit of service and faith, please share random acts of kindness in his memory. Memorial donations may be made to The Children’s Hospital, Albany Medical Center, MC#119, 43 New Scotland Ave., Albany, NY 12208, or Cathedral of Immaculate Conception, Social Services Food Pantry, 125 Eagle St., Albany, NY 12202.