Obituary of Paula L. Symanski

Paula L Symanski, 62, died unexpectedly on September 24, 2018. Daughter  of the late Paul and Mary(Dennin) Symanski and stepdaughter of the late Lorraine(Hess) Symanski. Survived by her loving partner and soulmate, Patty Kilgore, brother James (Cathy Marbach), sister Kate (Alan) Snyder, nephew John (Maggie) and nieces Tia and Kylee. She is also survived by the entire Kilgore family, who all adored her, her great nephews, Jack and Daniel and countless cousins and friends. She leaves behind her beloved “weins” Tory, Finnegan and Phoebe. 

Paula was a graduate of Keveny Academy and SUNY Cortland. 

For the last several years, Paula was  the Coordinator of Volunteer Services at The Community Hospice in Schenectady where she leaves a legacy of love and compassion. She began her work career at The Troy Record as a teen. For many years, Paula, a gifted photographer, had the the pleasure to work in the photography field at Photo Images, where many of the customers became lifelong friends. Paula was an avid volunteer selflessly giving back to the community. Some of the recipients of her time include CAPTAIN Community Services, The Prevention Council, The Community Hospice, ACS, and her most recent passion, the American Heart Association. As a long time stroke survivor, she worked tirelessly to raise stroke awareness and money for research. She had planned to celebrate her 10th year as a survivor by riding her bike the length of the Erie Canal in 2019. 

Paula’s incredible photos were displayed many times in the Capital District, often as a part of a charity project. When she wasn’t taking photos, she was cycling, kayaking or volunteering. She spent her last week on this earth at her favorite vacation spot, Provincetown, Cape Cod MA. 

Relatives and friends are invited to a celebration of Paula's life  on Wednesday, October 3,2018 from  4-7 p.m. followed, with a service at 7 p.m. at the Gordon C. Emerick Funeral Home 1550 Route 9 Clifton Park New York 12065.

Memorial contributions can be made to CycleNation or Capital Region Heart Walk through the American Heart Association, 4 Atrium Drive, Albany NY 12205 or Heaven Sent Animal Rescue, P.O. Box 2583, Glenville, NY 12325.