It is with deep sorrow that we share the passing of John E. Petralia Jr., a Saratoga County resident whose life touched many lives, on May 6, 2026, at Albany Medical Center.
John’s roots were in Thomson, NY, and his formative years were spent in Schuylerville Central School. He was a young man of faith and spirit, serving as an altar boy and participating in the drum corps, while also excelling in athletics. Though he later lived part of his life in Greenwich, NY, his ties to the Saratoga area remained strong until his final days in Glens Falls.
John’s journey was marked by service and dedication. After a brief time at General Electric, he proudly served his country as a Sergeant in the U.S. Marine Corps during the Vietnam War with the 1st Marine Air Wing. Following his military service, he dedicated years to public safety, serving with the Saratoga Springs Police Department and the Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office. Even after retirement, he continued to serve his community as a supervisor with the U.S. Postal Service.
A devoted family man, he cherished time with his wife Candace, daughter Amy, his siblings, and his many nieces, nephews, and friends. John possessed a warm spirit, loved sharing stories, was passionate about the NY Yankees, and found joy in boating on Saratoga Lake. His legacy is one of honor, kindness, and unwavering community service, remembered fondly by all who knew him.