Obituary of John J. Stankus

In Loving Memory of John J. Stankus 

John J. Stankus, 64, of Glenmont, NY, passed away on August 24, 2025. Born in Albany, NY, on June 21, 1961, John will be remembered as a father, brother, and friend. He was the beloved father of Michael, Avery, and Rachel Stankus, and uncle to Leah Zuckerman. He is also survived by his sister, Michelene (Barry) Zuckerman of Piedmont, Calif. 

He is remembered for the many friendships he built at the Capital City Rescue Mission. In recent years, the Mission became a place of connection and meaning for John, where he found companionship and support. 

John worked as a professional painter beginning in 1984 and was the proud owner of Precision Painting. He took great pride in his craft and built lasting connections through his work. John was deeply grateful for the trust of his many clients and the friendships formed over the years. Beyond his profession, he was known for his ability to connect with people easily. He had a gift for building relationships and listening deeply, often making friends at the local Stewart’s while grabbing his morning coffee or at Sherwin-Williams while picking up paint. 

He also had a deep love for the outdoors. Fishing, deer hunting, and simply being in nature brought him peace throughout his life. At home, he enjoyed cooking and often came up with unique recipes, surprising those around him with his creativity in the kitchen—sometimes making meals with the contents of the entire fridge.

John’s journey was not a traditional one, but he touched the lives of many. His family remembers the early years with love and is grateful for the moments of reconnection in recent months.  

A service to honor John’s life will be held on Thursday, September 4th, at 2 PM at The Celebration Room located at 95 Trinity Place, Albany, NY 12202. His family will be present to welcome friends and loved ones as they gather to remember him. 

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Capital City Rescue Mission, a place that meant so much to John and where he built many meaningful friendships. Donations can be made online at https://give.capitalcityrescuemission.org/give

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Funeral arrangements were entrusted to the Morris-Stebbins-Miner & Sanvidge Fuernal Home, 312 Hoosick Street, Troy, NY 12180.