Gerd Kienert

Gerd Kienert passed away peacefully on November 28, 2025 after a long and courageous battle with Parkinson’s disease.

Born in Germany on July 13, 1941, he came to the United States in 1953 with his mother and father. Arriving with no English, he taught himself the language by reading comic books, a small example of the curiosity and determination that would guide him throughout life.

After spending his early childhood in Germany, Gerd continued his formative years in Albany, N.Y. where he graduated from Colonie High School in 1963. He went on to earn his degree from SUNY Plattsburgh. Early in his career, he worked for R.J. Reynolds. Later he joined the Department of Corrections as a psychologist in the Merle Cooper Program, dedicating 25 years of service and retiring as Deputy Superintendent of Programs at Upstate Correctional Facility.

Known for his generosity and sense of humor, he was also active in his community as a member of the Masonic temple and as a Sunday school teacher at the Peru Community Church. Whether drag racing in his younger years traveling to Maine or raising German Shepherds, he approached life with enthusiasm and purpose. Among his proudest moments was becoming a United States citizen on December 4, 1959, a milestone that he never stopped celebrating.

He is survived by his loving wife of 28 years, Mary Lou; his daughter Paula Kienert, and her husband, Simon Steel; his son, Eric Kienert, and his partner, Deb Tyler; his stepdaughter Stephanie Garvey, and her husband, Jay Garvey; and his grandsons, Matt and Nate Kienert and William and Sam Garvey. He was predeceased by his parents, Adolf and Erna Kienert; his sister, Lily and his first wife, Charlotte.

Those who knew him will remember his signature greeting well - “Great, fantastic, couldn’t be better - every day is a holiday!”, a reflection of his spirit and the joy that he brought to others.

In keeping with his wishes, there will be no calling hours or funeral. A private celebration of his life will be held by the family at a later date. Donations in his memory may be made to the SPCA or the Parkinson’s Foundation.

To share a memory of Gerd or leave a special message for his family, visit the guest book below.