Jean R. Gantz

ALBANY – Jean R. Gantz, 85, passed away on Friday, July 5th, 2024, with her loving family by her side. Born in Albany, NY She was the daughter of the late Robert H. and Dorothea Rifenberick. Jean followed in her mother’s footsteps and was a proud graduate of Albany Medical Center’s Nursing School class of 1959. 

She started her career in the pediatric unit at Albany Medical Center and did private care for many patients in the Capital region. She was also a devoted caretaker to close neighbors. 

She was a long-time member of the Shaker Doll Club. She loved all her dolls. In addition to collecting them she took great pride in repairing them and making clothes for them. She loved holding doll club meetings at her house as it was a reason to host a gathering. No gathering was too big or too small. Especially when she was hosting at her cottage in Canada at Eagle Lake where she spent every summer. Her family was her life and they shared an extra special bond with lifelong lake friends. A bond that she talked about right until the day of her passing. Recounting endless stories and memories. She would invite lake friends over for a tea party or lunch or dinner and make delicious desserts and then a card game or two or three would quickly follow. 

She is survived by her devoted and cherished husband of 65 years Robert J. Gantz Jr., beloved son Robert J. (Deborah) Gantz III and beloved daughter Sue Austro and beloved grandchildren Jessica Jean Mosher, and Jake and Taylor Austro. Jean was also an adored grandmother to Dakota Kane and to Tracey (Dwayne) Hebler and Tracey and Dwayne’s children Gregorie, Kaiden, Austin and Jakob. Her sister Betty Petrone and her children Joe (Ursula) Petrone, William Petroni and Lisa (Chuck) Bohl and her brother Robert (Mary) Rifenberick and his son Adam (Sara) Rifenberick. Many cousins and a dear childhood friend also survive. 

Funeral arrangements will be private at a later date through Hans Funeral Home 1088 Western Av Albany, NY 12203. Please consider a donation in Jean’s name to the Saratoga County Animal Shelter 6010 County Farm Rd Ballston Spa, NY 12020.