Isabel V. D'Ambrosi

Poestenkill - Isabel V. D'Ambrosi, age 88, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, at Shaker Place Rehabilitation and Nursing Center in Albany, surrounded by her loving family.

Born in April 1937 in Troy, Isabel was the daughter of the late Harold W. and Isabel A. (Murdock) Van Vleck. She attended Latham Public Schools and graduated from Watervliet High School. She went on to earn both a Bachelor's and a Master's degree from SUNY Albany.

Isabel dedicated her professional life to helping others, retiring as a certified social worker from Hudson Valley Community College. A fierce and compassionate advocate, she was a pioneer in the early days of autism awareness. When her son Keith was diagnosed, Isabel became a tireless voice for families like hers-pounding on the doors of every New York State agency to demand recognition, support, and funding. She educated officials through countless presentations, helping to bring much-needed attention and understanding to autism at a time when it was too often overlooked.

A true antique enthusiast, Isabel spent many joyful weekends traveling the garage sale circuit with her beloved sister-in-law, Pat, in search of hidden treasures. She had a remarkable talent for restoring old pieces, bringing them back to life with care and skill. For years, she also authored a popular antiques column in the Albany Times Union, sharing her passion and expertise with readers across the Capital Region.

While Isabel loved many things, she did not love winter-especially the snow. For nearly 40 years, she and her husband enjoyed winters in their cherished Florida home, always returning to upstate New York by March 31st, just in time for trout season-clearly more his idea than hers.

Isabel is survived and lovingly remembered by her sons, Harry A. Colangione Jr., James K. Colangione, and Keith Colangione; her cherished grandchildren, Jason, Ryan, and Lindsay Colangione; and her great-grandchildren, Elana, Nicholas, and Isabella Colangione. She is also survived by her brothers, Douglas M. Van Vleck and Vaughn B. Van Vleck.

She was predeceased by her husband, Anthony "Gov" D'Ambrosi; her brother, Harold W. Van Vleck, Jr.; and her parents.

Memorial contributions may be made in Isabel's memory to Wildwood Programs, 12 Gay Street, Delmar, NY, 12054.

Relatives and friends are invited to visit with the family on Friday, July 25, 2025, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at the W.J. Lyons, Jr. Funeral Home, 1700 Washington Avenue, Rensselaer. A memorial service will follow at 6:00 p.m.