Obituary of James Joseph Maltais

James Joseph Maltais

Passed away Wednesday, October 6, 2021 at the age of 87.  Cherished husband of Lillian (Mazanti) for 61 years.  Loving father of Tracey (Dean) Sunkes and adored “Bumbo” to Brandon Sunkes and Haley (Morgan) Butkus.

Jim was predeceased by his parents Arthur E. and Florence Maltais, brother Arthur L. Maltais, and step-brother Edmund.  

Born and raised in Troy, N.Y., Jim graduated from Catholic Central High School in 1951.  He worked for Allegheny Ludlum for 10 years before joining his wife at her Glamourette Beauty salon in Lansingburgh for several years.  After entering the home remodeling and construction business, Jim’s enterprise built over 200 homes in the Capital District including Linden Hills Townhomes in Troy and subdivisions in Schodack and Kinderhook.  He also built a mountain retreat in Woodford, Vermont where his family and friends enjoyed years of spirited gatherings.

Jim was proud of his civic and public service terms as Deputy County Clerk, Deputy Commissioner of Social Services, the Troy Planning Commission, Rensselaer County Young Republicans (President) and past member of Combat Command “A” of the NY National Guard.

Jim was an accomplished skier and was past president of the Troy Ski Patrol and member of the National Ski Patrol.  He was also a member of the Albany Curling Club.

Spreading his dry wit and humor around the world, Jim and Lillian visited more than 54 countries.  After retirement, they relocated to Indian Land, SC.

Creativity led to invention, having received a patent on a child injury prevention system.  While hard work and elegance were his trademarks, Jim will forever be known for his kind heart and love, always willing to help someone in need.

Further survived by sister-in-law Sophie (Al) Severino and several nieces and nephews.

Calling hours will be held Wednesday, October 13 at the John J. Sanvidge Funeral Home, Inc., 565 Fourth Avenue (corner of 115^th Street in Lansingburgh) Troy, New York 12182 from 9:30 A.M.-11:00 A.M. followed by a memorial at 11:00 A.M. and interment at St. John’s Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Jim’s name to The Alzheimer's Association or St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital. 

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