Benedict A. Isabel

June 1, 1957 - February 13, 2016

Benedict (Benji) A. Isabel, 58, passed away Saturday, February 13, 2016 at Albany Medical Center after a long illness. Benji was born June 1, 1957 to the late Gerard and Angela Isabel. He attended St. Mary's Institute and Bishop Scully High School (Class of 1975). He graduated from Siena College with a Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science. He worked for the U.S. Post Office as a mail carrier and later worked for Amsterdam Memorial Hospital and St. Mary's Hospital, Amsterdam, NY as a Unit Clerk. Benji was a volunteer for GAVAC Ambulance Services, Amsterdam, NY for many years. He was a playground instructor for the Guy Park Avenue playground. Benji always said that they were the "greatest group of people he ever knew." He played softball for many teams. He was very well read, well versed and enjoyed sports, particularly the Mets, 49ers and Tampa Bay Lightning. In high school he was called the "human calculator" because of how quickly he could compute numbers. Benji was very well liked, kind hearted and generous, and could talk to anyone about any topic. His smile and his gentle personality made people feel like they had just made a true friend. He always had a kind word or an encouraging comment and made people feel special. Benji is survived by his brothers Alexander B. Isabel (Stormy) of Fonda and Gerard J. Isabel (Linda) of Amsterdam, his nieces Elizabeth Thompson (Michael) of Johnstown, Laura Davis (Nick) of Pottstown, Pennsylvania, and Pennie Isabel of Amsterdam, his nephews David Isabel of Saratoga and Anthony Isabel of Amsterdam, as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins and numerous friends. He was pre-deceased by his parents Gerard D. (Pup) in 2012 and Angela M., in 2013. At Benji's request, there will be no viewing hours or funeral. There will be a private memorial service for the immediate family only. Donations can be made to GAVAC, P.O. Box 11, Amsterdam, New York 12010. Amico Funeral Home, Gloversville, NY is assisting the family. Online condolences may be made at www.amicofuneralhome.com.