Malta, NY – Erin Ashley Baertschi (Herkenham), 41, passed away on July 7, 2026 after a two-year battle with cancer.

Erin was born on November 29, 1984, in Troy, NY the daughter of Scott Herkenham and the late Shirley Herkenham (Gardner).

Erin grew up in Stillwater, New York. As a child, she was eager to try new things, exploring everything from dance, ballet, swimming, gymnastics, Little League, and basketball. She joined the cheerleading squad while attending Stillwater High School, where she graduated in 2003. During this time, Erin established many close and important relationships with classmates that carried through into adulthood. She adored her older brother who, being 8 years her senior, instilled in her a deep appreciation and love for 80’s and 90’s pop culture, music, and movies.

Erin’s favorite author was Jane Austen, and she was a connoisseur of any television or movie adaptation of Austen’s work. Those who knew Erin learned that some of these adaptations were to be revered, and some were “not to be spoken of in this house.” And although she would never admit it, she would occasionally find an escape among other enthusiasts in the world of JAFF, or Jane Austen Fan Fiction to the layman..

Erin earned her bachelor’s degree from RPI in 2007 and her master’s degree from The Sage Colleges, Esteves School of Education in 2013. She later taught special education at Sanford Street Elementary in Glens Falls and at the Greater Amsterdam School District. She was most recently an educational coach with the Capital Region BOCES. Erin had a deep passion for education and believed every student deserved the opportunity to succeed. Throughout her career, she was a dedicated advocate for students who were often underserved, working to expand access to alternative teaching methods and programs that helped them reach their full potential.

She married Adam Baertschi in Ballston Spa on May 24, 2019. They bought a home in Malta, New York where they built a life together full of love and laughter. In September of 2019, they were blessed with the birth of their daughter Eloise. Erin cherished motherhood. She had a natural aptitude to guide, teach, and protect. Her love for her daughter radiated in every moment of every day and will continue to do so for eternity.

Erin is survived by her husband, Adam; daughter, Eloise; father, Scott; brother, Todd, along with many friends.

Relatives and friends may call from 10:30am to 11:30am on Friday, July 17, 2026, at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Mohican St. Lake George, NY. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:30am.

In loving memory of Erin contributions may be made to Best Buddies in New York, 3 Schoolhouse Lane, Waterford, NY 12188.

Condolences may be sent directly to Baker Funeral Home, 11 Lafayette St., Queensbury, NY 12804, or through www.bakerfuneralhome.com.