Jacob Kurtessis Obituary

 Jacob (Jake) P. Kurtessis, 72, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 31, 2025 at home surrounded by his loving family after a courageous battle with bladder cancer.

He was born March 11, 1953, in Albany, NY. He was the son of the late Peter J. and Katherine Kurtessis. A proud resident of Glenmont, NY and a 1971 graduate from CBA. He worked as a Pre-Fraud Investigator for Albany County, a Social Welfare examiner, Medicaid specialist and delivery driver for Meals on Wheels.

He is survived by his daughter, Jacqueline (Jason) Russell and grandchildren, Athena and Atlas. His brother, Nicholas (Judy Cocca) Kurtessis, nephew James (Kathleen Stewart) and niece Katherine (Jeremy) McNamara.

He loved cats, cars, Halloween and rock n' roll. You could find him at a Beach Boys Concert, or singing along to the Beatles or AC/DC at home. His kindness and empathy towards others was unmatched. He was the type of person who would invite you into his home, offer a beer and lend an ear. His honesty and open minded demeanor were a testament to his character.

“And in the end
The love you take
Is equal to the love you make”
-The Beatles

He will be missed greatly.

A public visitation will be held Saturday August 9th, 2025 at New Comer Cremations & Funerals, 343 New Karner Rd, Colonie, NY 12205 from 10:00am to 11:00am with a small service to immediately begin at 11:00am led by St. Sophia Greek Orthodox Church followed by the burial at Graceland Cemetery.

With Jake’s love of animals, especially cats, please consider a monetary donation to the Mohawk Hudson Humane Society in his name at https://www.mohawkhumane.org/donate