Roland Widmer

Troy-Roland Widmer, age 67, passed away on Thursday, November 21, 2024, after a prolonged illness at St. Peter’s Hospital, with his beloved Michele and daughter Katelynn by his side. 

 Roland was the son of the late Kurt and Denise Widmer. He was born on February 24, 1957, in Bern, Switzerland, and emigrated with his parents to the United States in 1959. He spent his early childhood in Queens, NY, before the family moved to the Catskills and eventually to Troy. An avid skier in his youth, Roland earned a state ranking in downhill ski racing.

 Roland was a proud 1975 graduate of LaSalle Institute, he later played basketball at the College of Santa Fe and apprenticed in southern California. He later joined the family business, Helmbold’s Hot Dogs, to which he dedicated much of his life. Roland’s love for music, sports, food, traveling and his family remained a lasting passion.

 Roland is survived by his beloved Michele, son Christopher (Danielle) Widmer, and daughter Katelynn (Tim) Meppen; his cherished grandchildren, Angelina, Nicolette, Jordyn, Grayson, and Jackson; his sisters Marilyn (Michael) Widmer and Heidi (David) Yetto; as well as several nieces, nephews, and extended family in the U.S., Switzerland, and Australia.

 The family extends heartfelt thanks to Annette and Mike for their unwavering support, as well as to his sister Marilyn and her husband Mike for their love and devotion.

 Roland’s love for his family, especially his children and grandchildren, was boundless. He was always their biggest supporter and the light of his life. His grandchildren brought him joy and strength, and he cherished every moment spent with them. Roland will be deeply missed, and his absence leaves a quiet space in the hearts of all who knew him.

 Relatives and friends are invited to visit with the family on Sunday, November 24, 2024, from 2:00 to 5:00 PM at W.J. Lyons, Jr. Funeral Home, 1700 Washington Avenue, Rensselaer. A funeral home service will be held the following morning, Monday, November 25, 2024, at 11:30 AM. Burial will follow in Bloomingrove Cemetery, North Greenbush.