Alexander "Sandy" Katz, 79, died on January 17, 2021, at his home in Queensbury.

Born in Manhattan and raised in Brooklyn, Al fondly recalled childhood adventures of exploring the city every Saturday without parental supervision as well as swimming at Brighton Beach and engaging in shenanigans at Coney Island.

He graduated from Rhodes Preparatory School in 1959 and attended New York University.

Al's love of skiing and socializing prompted him to join Ski Spree, which allowed him to escape the city during the winter months. Through Ski Spree, he met Angela, also a member, at a dude ranch in the Catskills. They were married in 1968.

Relocating to Glens Falls in 1969, Al began a career as an insurance agent, which was like hitting the proverbial jackpot because it enabled him to kibbitz with people from all walks of life.

After nearly 30 years, he switched careers and worked for 10 years in sales at The Great
Escape, another job that paid him to talk with people.

When Al "retired," in addition to being a conductor on the Saratoga and North Creek Railway's Polar Express, he became a fixture at Gore Mountain. First working as a greeter, then as a starter for Nastar, he reached his forever home running the Lost and Found. Working at Gore enabled him to remain an active participant in the pursuit of joy that ski culture inspires.

Never one to sit still, Al was as generous with his time as he was loquacious. He was a member of the Lake George Chamber of Commerce and Lake George Rotary Club. Over the years, he volunteered with Meals on Wheels, provided rides to doctor's appointments for those in need, coordinated transportation for the Glens Falls Hometown Thanksgiving and was a fireman with the Queensbury Central Volunteer Fire Company.

They broke the mold when Al was born and his colorful personality will be fondly remembered. Al is survived by his wife, Angela Katz; daughter, Elissa Valenti; and grandchildren, Max and Sasha.

Special mention must be made of the Oncology department at Glens Falls Hospital, especially Dr. Gillani, whose talents gave Al many extra years. The family also extends heartfelt appreciation for the care and compassion provided by Karrian and April with High Peaks Hospice.

A private service will be held at the convenience of the family. Messages of condolence and
sympathy may be sent directly to Baker Funeral Home, 11 Lafayette St., Queensbury, NY
12804 or through www.bakerfuneralhome.com .

Memorial donations may be made to the Cancer Research Institute, 29 Broadway, Floor 4, New York, NY 10006-3111 or High Peaks Hospice, 454 Glen Street, Glens Falls, NY 12801.