Obituary of John William Virtanen

JOHN WILLIAM VIRTANEN Clifton Park-John William Virtanen, 67 of Clifton Park, beloved husband of Debra Quinzi Virtanen, entered into eternal life on Monday, August 19, 2019. John left us far too soon. He was best known for his roles of father, Poppa and husband. He loved the work he did at NYSTRS for nearly 40 years. The last several years, John traveled the world investing the pension funds in real estate and private equities. John was an avid sportsman. He regularly took his family skiing in Vermont and Colorado. He especially loved snorkeling with the turtles on St. John and boogie boarding on the waves at his beloved New Smyrna Beach. Golfing, kayaking, snow shoeing, and skating with his girls were very often enjoyed. He especially loved teaching them softball and lacrosse. He endured their ire at side lines while providing "Dad" coaching tips. Once diagnosed with Parkinson's disease (PD), boxing, neuromotor wellness class and pedaling with others who have Parkinson's gained him friendships he had not expected and ultimately cherished. John's love of music was unique. He chose eclectic pieces but tended toward blues, rock, ballads and soulful instrumentals. His greatest thrill was attending a Santana concert with Debra and sister in law Susie- front row center at Red Rocks Colorado on his 36th wedding anniversary. John will be missed by many friends, colleagues and family. He leaves his wife Debra, daughters Kim and Becca (Alvin), granddaughter Cameron, siblings Susan (Dave) and Mick (Saundra) but especially legendary Mom Florence aka Nonny Virtanen and many other significant relatives and friends behind to join him later in their journeys. John requested that you please send donations in lieu of flowers to Hopesoars.org so others with PD can join the many programs sponsored locally by these contributions. A service celebrating John's life will be held at the Dufresne and Cavanaugh Funeral Home on Saturday August 24, 2019 at 1:00 p.m. with a calling period for family and friends to visit with John's family between the hours of 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. on Saturday. For directions, information or to light a memory candle for the family please visit www.dufresneandcavanaugh.com.