Gregory Thomas Kaczmarek

Gregory Thomas Kaczmarek of Schenectady, New York, passed away peacefully on Saturday, June 18, 2022 at 70 years old.  At the time of passing, Greg was home, surrounded by his wife Lisa and loving family after a courageous 16 year battle with kidney cancer.  He is predeceased by his Parents, brother, Paul David Kaczmarek, and father-in-law Patrick Cuomo. Greg is survived by his sister, Davia Kaczmarek, stepmother, Cheryl (Delorenzo) Kaczmarek, uncle John Famiano, mother-in-law, Gloria (Hank) Bottieri, mother-in-law, Gwendolyn Cuomo, sister-in-law, Toni (John) Galluzzo, brothers-in-law, Henry (Doreen) Bottieri, Roger (Bruce) Cuomo, niece, Fallon Kaczmarek, nephew, John Kaczmarek, and a host of cousins.

Greg was born to John David and Katherine Ann Kaczmarek, on the same day as his maternal grandfather, Donald. He graduated from Bishop Gibbons High School class of 1970. Greg then went on to pre-med at Saint Michael’s College. One trip home, after a tough conversation with his father, Greg decided to change curriculum and pursued a career in the nursing field as a registered nurse. Graduating from Hudson Valley College, class of 1974, he passed his exam on his first try. Greg then went on to work as a registered nurse in St. Clare’s Hospital Intensive Care Unit. Greg felt still unfulfilled, and after another call with dad, former sheriff Dave Kaczmarek, decided to follow in the footsteps of law enforcement. Greg worked his way through the ranks, through charisma and tenacity, ultimately becoming Chief of Police, in 1995. After 7 years, in 2002, it was time to retire and marry the love of his life, Lisa Cuomo. Shortly after, they became the owner and operators of Capo DE Pizza, known for the world class breakfast pizza. In 2006, upon routine check up with the doctor, Greg was regretfully diagnosed with lymphoma, where while receiving treatment, a spot on his kidney was discovered as well. In light of the newly discovered cancer, Greg and Lisa had to make the tough decision to close Capo DE Pizza. While in remission, Greg returned to the workforce in 2010 to become district manager of iHop in the East Greenbush region of New York. Retiring again, Greg followed his faith, and went on to the Albany diocese, where he would study to become a deacon. Greg’s life of faith had never been stronger. He became a part of Father Diorio’s ministry in Massachusetts, also becoming a member of the Spirit of Life, and Gene Vilano Prayer groups. He also became a lector at his home church, Saint Paul the Apostle, under Father Brucker, Father Pagones, Father Frisoni, and Spiritual Advisor, Father Marty Fisher, all of which Greg had a holy and loving relationship with.

Gregory was the textbook definition of a family man deeply involved in spending time with his children and grandchildren.  He participated in any and all sports, and even coached his very own Capo DE pizza baseball team. Greg had a passion for golfing with many great friends and especially at the Edison Club with his beloved grandson, Will Terry. Greg was an avid fan of New York teams. Yankees and Giants games became an even greater means for celebration. Gregory has a beautiful blended family all of which include, children, John (Gina) Kaczmarek, Kate Mags, Anthony (Amanda) Kaczmarek, Tanika (Kenneth) Brooks, Ricardo (Kevin) Smith, Monique (Brady) Jackson, and Miles Smith; grandchildren, Will, Angelina, Alexie, Gianna, Miley, Niyanna, Carter, Lorenzo, Amina and Lucia. Everyday of the later days of his life, Greg was accompanied by his granddaughter, Amina, who’s favorite saying was “Papa Pizza and Pops”. 

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial which will be celebrated on Tuesday, June 28, 2022 at 11:00 AM at St. Paul the Apostle Church.  Entombment will be private.
At Greg's request in lieu of flowers, any donations in his name, may be made to Community Fathers Inc. and/or Schenectady Ring of Hope Boxing Club.

Greg was an amazing man of faith, family, and love. Because of his faith, he will continue to live on forever in death as he did in life in the arms of the Lord. We love you Chief. Always and 
forever.