Peter G. Heeran, Sr.

Rensselaer- Peter G. Heeran Sr., 77, of Rensselaer, NY, passed away on August 26, 2026. He was born on February 15, 1949, in Albany, New York, to the late William J. Heeran and Blanche (Drapeau) Heeran. Pete grew up in Rensselaer and attended Columbia High School and Hudson Valley Community College.

Pete was the beloved husband of Mary E. (Jones) Heeran, with whom he shared 21 years of marriage. He was the loving father of Peter G. Heeran Jr. (Malinda) of Albany; Laurie Horan (Scott) of Dunnellon, Florida; and Brian J. Heeran (Debbie) of Ocala, Florida. He was also a devoted stepfather to Jessica L. Grieves (Jay) of Fairhope, Alabama; Matthias F. Shea II (Amy) of Bulverde, Texas; and Marcia A. Hale (Jason) of Averill Park.

Pete was a proud grandfather to Zachary and Marisa Hale, Ashley, Gracey, and Miley Shea, and Sebastian and Apollo Grieves. He is survived by his brother, George Heeran (Fran); his nieces, Michelle Heeran and Eileen (Dan) Dewitya; and his best friend, Marvin Goldfarb.

Pete worked as a timekeeper at the Empire State Plaza from 1969 to 1978. He then worked for the Capital District Transportation Authority from 1978 until 2009. More recently, he worked as a shuttle driver for The College of Saint Rose and Russell Sage College.

He was a member of the Polish American Citizens Club.

Pete was a hard worker who never sat still. He loved his family, friends, and dogs, Heidi and Zeke. Even on his toughest days, he was always on the go. He was known for his kindness, his smile, and his willingness to lend a helping hand. Pete was a fighter who never gave up and a generous person who would take the shirt off his back for anyone.

He enjoyed cooking, especially making his famous meatballs, and took great pride in washing and waxing his car. He loved mowing lawns, including those of his neighbors, and enjoyed spending time with his gym buddies at Planet Fitness. He also loved walking the mall with Marvin.

Pete had a special fondness for cake, especially cake from Schuyler Bakery. At holidays and birthdays, he was known to sneak a mouthful before it was time to serve it. He also enjoyed his weekly coffee at Uncommon Grounds with his son Peter and his friend Marvin.

Pete was especially proud of his children, grandchildren, and dogs. Above all, he deeply appreciated the unconditional care and love given to him by his beloved wife, Mary.

Calling hours will be held on Sunday, August 30, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at W. J. Lyons Jr. Funeral Home, 1700 Washington Avenue, Rensselaer, NY 12144.

A funeral service will be held on Monday, August 31, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Lyons Funeral Home, followed by a procession to Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, Third Avenue Extension, Rensselaer, New York.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Homeward Bound Dog Rescue in Schenectady, New York.

The family would like to thank the North Greenbush Police and Ambulance and the Sand Lake Ambulance for their kindness and support during this difficult time. They also extend their heartfelt thanks to Dr. Powe for his exceptional care, compassion, and kindness, as well as for the unwavering dedication and comfort he provided to Pete and the family. His support meant more than words can express.