Saratoga Springs - John Crooks, a beloved husband and father, passed away peacefully at home with his family at his side on July 2nd after a long battle with Alzheimers.

John, a native of Saratoga Springs, was born on April 8, 1941. John and his brother Jim spent their childhood at the Hawley Home for Children. They were later lovingly fostered by Rudy and Edna Bauer. John met the love of his life, Sandra Zielinski, while they both worked at Kaydeross Park. They married in 1961 and spent 61 wonderful years together. John and Sandra raised 5 daughters who were their pride and joy. John loved spending time with his daughters and grandchildren. Family time was important to him. John retired from Skidmore College after 30+ years making many lifelong friends. John always gave to others. He volunteered at Mary's Haven for over 10 years caring for the terminally ill. Many sought out John for his kind ways, calm demeanor and words of wisdom. He was inspirational yet humble, earning him the nickname Father John. John was an active honorary life member of Saratoga Council Third Degree Knights of Columbus, having joined in 1989. He was also a life member of Saratoga Assembly 745 Fourth Degree and served in the Color Corps for many years.

In addition to his foster parents, John was predeceased by his sister Nancy Male.

John is survived by his devoted wife Sandra, who took loving care of him until his passing, daughters Jackie Hasbrouck (Gary), Darlene Robens, Christine MacIntosh (Darren), Kimberlee Cava (Alex), Karen Kholstinin (Alan); grandchildren Lauren Perry (Michael), Danielle Robens (Joe), Robert Robens, Aron Courville (Beth), Brandon MacIntosh (Amber), Alexa Loprino (John), Cassandra Helenek, Corina King (Zak), Christian (April) MacIntosh, Maksim Kholstinin; 8 great-grandchildren, his brother James Crooks (Butch), sisters Merry Swain and Elizabeth Zielinski and many nieces and nephews.

Relatives and friends may call from 4-7pm, Wednesday, July 6th at the William J. Burke & Sons Funeral Home, 628 North Broadway, Saratoga Springs. The Knights of Columbus will meet 5pm Wednesday at the Burke Funeral Home for their services. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10am on Thursday, July 7th at St. Clement's Church, 231 Lake Ave., Saratoga Springs. Burial will follow at the family plot in Greenridge Cemetery, Lincoln Ave.

A special thank you to Community Hospice of Saratoga, especially Alice and Jen, Drs. Farrell, Ethier, and Pezzulo, and so many others for such compassionate care.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in John's memory to Community Hospice of Saratoga 179 Lawrence St, Saratoga Springs or Mary's Haven 35 New St, Saratoga Springs.

Online remembrances may be made at www.burkefuneralhome.com.