Thomas Schrade
SARATOGA SPRINGS —Thomas W. Schrade, 69, passed away peacefully on September 27, 2024, in his Saratoga Springs apartment. He was born May 9, 1955 in Saratoga Springs to the late John “Jack” and Nancy Schrade and was a graduate of Saratoga Springs High School.
Tom began his career by working for his father at Schrade’s Greenhouses and Landscaping before joining Palette Stone, where he dedicated 34 years until his retirement in 2014. Tom loved his years spent working at Palette Stone and deeply valued the friendships he built with his colleagues. Whether it was bringing Ryan along for all the sports fan fun or collecting memorabilia, polishing coins, or teaching him the ways of the horse track—his son was his best bud, always along for the ride. The memories made at Gaffney’s, Old Bryan Inn, and Ash Grove will never be forgotten.
Tom also had a lifelong passion for gardening, always tending to the plants and flowers wherever he resided. His main hobbies included golf and horse racing, as he loved any time spent at the Saratoga racetrack during track season.
On weekends, naps on the porch were a cherished routine, and he spent as much time outdoors as possible, soaking up the sunshine. His deep connection to Saratoga Springs remained strong throughout his life, and it was a place he never wanted to leave.
Tom was predeceased by his parents, John “Jack” Schrade and Nancy Schrade. He is survived by his son, Ryan Schrade, and his wife, Michelle Schrade; his two sisters, Gretchen (Jimmy Squires) and Carol (John Kelly); and his brother, John Schrade (Cindy LaPell).
The family would like to give a special thanks to Regina Colaes, Dan Colaes, and Ron and Bonnie Wall for their dedicated care and support of Tom in recent years. Your kindness and constant availability were greatly appreciated by Tom and his family.
A celebration of Tom’s life will be held next summer for friends and family to gather in his honor. If you would like to be included in the future arrangements, please send your contact information to Ryan Schrade at ryan.t.schrade@gmail.com.
A personal note from his son, Ryan, “At 42 years old, I finally feel like an adult, and that’s because of you, Dad. You’ve given me everything I need in life to stand on my own, and I know you still have more to give, in ways I can’t yet imagine. I admire the man you were and the father you’ve always been. I’ll carry your wisdom and strength with me for the rest of my days. Thank you, Dad, for everything.”
Cheers.
Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com