Schenectady – Dr. Abraham “Al” Nathan Finkel, 85, passed away peacefully on Friday July 8, 2022 at Ellis Hospital. Born in Saratoga Springs on April 1, 1937 he is the son of the late Hyman and Bella (Kessel) Finkel.
For over 40 years, Al was in a solo practice of oral and maxillofacial surgery in Troy, New York. He was on the medical staff of Leonard Hospital, St. Mary’s Hospital, and Samaritan Hospital.
Al was a prolific reader, especially of history books and world events. He was a strong supporter of the State of Israel. He was an outdoor enthusiast and in his younger years hiked the Appalachian Trail with his brother-in-law, Irwin. At one time, he was an avid photographer. In his later years, Al was Gabbai and very dedicated to Beth Israel Congregation in Schenectady.
Al had a strong sense of responsibility and a dry sense of humor. He was exceptionally intelligent and quick-witted and very knowledgeable about many subjects. One of the main goals of his life was service to others, as shown by his providing essential medical and dental care to those in need.
AL was a member of B’nai B’rith, Jewish War Veterans, Third District Dental Society and the American Society of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons.
Al served in the Dominican Republic in 1965; joined the 82nd Airborne - served in Vietnam 1966-1967. While there Al served on the medical ship Helgoland which provided free medical and dental care to the local Vietnamese.
Those wishing to remember AL in a special way can make memorial contributions in his name to, Friends of the IDF at benjihillman.org, Yeshiva University at yu.edu or Congregation Beth Israel, 2195 Eastern Parkway Schenectady, 12309.
Ali is survived by his wife, Lynn Vosholler Finkel; his daughters, Dr. Lisa Leon and Michelle (Dan Mehlman)Finkel; his son, David (Alexis RascioFinkel)Finkel; his sister, Esther (Harvey)Sonin; and his grandchildren, Isabella Leon, Emily Leon, Poppy Mehlman, Marea Mehlman and Avery Finkel. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews and cousins.
Al will be laid to rest with full military honors on Monday July 11th at 11:00 am at Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, 200 Duell Rd. Schuylerville, NY 12871. At the conclusion of the services in Saratoga the family will be gathering at Congregation Beth Israel, 2195 Eastern Parkway in Schenectady beginning at 1:00 pm where they will receive guests and share memories of Al’s life.
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