BALLSTON SPA — Michael E. Abernethy, 76, passed away Thursday, Oct. 2 in New York Presbyterian Hospital.
Born on July 23, 1938 in Brooklyn to the late Edward and Mary (Reilly) Abernethy and graduating from Xavier High School in Manhattan, he attended Xavier University in Ohio and New York University, where he completed his Bachelor of Science, competing in football.
He continued his education at St. John’s University, earning a Master of Science in Education. From 1961 to 1976 Michael worked for the New York City Department of Education as a teacher, coach and administrator.
In 1976, he left the Department of Education to lead the development, design and implementation of the Empire State Games, serving as the Executive Director from its inception through 1988. Later, Mr. Abernethy returned to the Department of Education serving as a consultant to the Public Schools Athletic League until his retirement in 2012.
Mike combined the unique qualities of a passionate educator with the competitive spirit of an elite athlete and a winning attitude that no game was too big. This big, strong man, with the grip of a lumberjack, found peace and serenity in his yard caring for his flower beds and fish ponds. He used his amazing gardening talent to create an outdoor oasis, which he shared with his friends and neighbors. Mike took great satisfaction in spending time sitting by his ponds and discussing the topic of the day, which could range from religion, to politics, to sports, and somehow always end with a history lesson.
Survivors include his wife Mary Michele (Nangle) Abernethy, of Ballston Spa; their son Brian Abernethy of Charlotte, North Carolina; his children from his previous marriage to Barbara (Backus) Abernethy; Michael Abernethy, Kathleen Smith (Patrick)of Manchester, New Hampshire, Daniel Abernethy (Christine Rago) of Alpharetta, Georgia, Donald Abernethy (MaryAnne Mitchell) of Cicero, Terence Abernethy (Margaret McHugh) of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, Mary Beth Spaulding of Cicero, Patricia Ransom (Todd) of Merrick, David Abernethy (Carrie Converse) of Plattsburgh; his grandchildren, Francis and Andrea Abernethy, Alivia Spaulding, Chloe and Daniel Smith, Michael, Thomas, Patrick, Mary and Anne Abernethy, Jack, Theodore and Harrison Ransom, Nathan, Erin, Molly and Riley Abernethy, and Kallen and Ella Abernethy; his sisters, Patricia Suppa of Mt Kisco, Eileen Connolly of Fort Solanga, Maureen Gerhard of Orwigsburg, Pennsylvania.; and many nieces and nephews.
Michael was predeceased by his son Christopher in 1964 and his daughter Barbara in 2012.
The family would like to thank Albany Medical Center and specifically Dr. Alderisio and Dr. Napier for the wonderful care that they provided to Michael throughout the years.
Relatives and friends may convey their condolences to the family from 4-7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 8 at the William J. Burke & Sons/Bussing and Cunniff Funeral Homes, 628 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs 584-5373.
A memorial Mass will be celebrated at 9:30am Thursday (Oct. 9) in St. Mary’s Church, 167 Milton Ave., Ballston Spa.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in his name to the Saratoga Central Catholic High School Men’s Soccer team, 247 Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.
Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com.
