Obituary of Donald F. Lutzy

DONALD F. LUTZY

NEWTONVILLE – Donald F. Lutzy, 75 of Newtonville, passed away on September 16th, 2023 at his home with his loving wife, Carol, at his side.

Born on March 25th, 1948 in Solvay, NY he was the son of the late Everett and Kathleen (Raynor) Lutzy. Carol (Budini) and Don were married on May 24th, 1975 sharing 48 cherished years together.

Music was Don's highest passion. At ten years old, Don played the trumpet trying to emulate his jazz hero, Miles Davis. As time went on, keyboard became his main instrument of choice, however, trumpet always remained a constant love.

Don graduated from Berkley School of Music and following graduation he used his talents and gifts teaching jazz, band, and orchestra at Albany High School. He was a friend and mentor to many of his students, some of who went on to excel in and attain musical achievements and awards even including Grammy nominations. To this day, his students reach out to him in gratefulness and adoration. He had a room in his house devoted solely to music.

Above all else, was his love and complete devotion to his wife, Carol, They enjoyed 48 years of love, laughter and travel. Don was a very special person. His compassion and kindness for others was experienced by many as was his unique sense of humor. He will be greatly missed and forever cherished by those who knew and loved him.

In addition to his late parents Don is predeceased by his brother Roger (late Nancy) Lutzy.

Survivors in addition to his beloved wife Carol include his sister-in-law Norine (Juri) Vancans, brother-in-law Joseph (Arlene) Natalie, beloved nieces and nephews Lisa (Brendan) Durkin, Kristen (Gene) Costantini, and Jeremiah (Renee) Vancans, cherished great-nieces and nephews Sam, Cassie, Kyla, Colette, and Nora as well as several other nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews.

In accordance with Don's and his family's wishes, services will be private at this time. Those wishing to remember him in a special way are encouraged to make a donation to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital by visiting https://www.stjude.org/donate. For further information or to offer a condolence message please visit www.dufresneandcavanaugh.com.

Arrangements have been entrusted by the family to Dufresne & Cavanaugh Funeral Home, Latham.