Sanford Fialkoff

Niskayuna - Sanford Fialkoff, 91, passed away peacefully at home on June 24, 2026 with his family and beloved dog Doge by his side. He was the devoted husband of the late Suzanne Cohen Fialkoff, with whom he shared a loving marriage of 62 years. Born on November 15, 1934 in Albany, Sanford was the son of the late Samuel and Ida (Finestein) Fialkoff. 

Sanford was a devoted father to his daughters, Mindy Fricke and her husband Roland, and Alyssa Fecura and her husband Tim. He cherished his role as a grandfather and took great pride in being part of the lives of Jacob, his wife Shelby, Jessica, her husband Zach Falls, and Lauren Fecura, and Rachel and her husband Liam Garrity-Rokous and William Fricke and his wife Brigitte Kenny.  He was so pleased to be able to attend weddings of grandchildren, expressed pride and happiness that he was a great -grandfather to two adorable great- granddaughters, Elliott and Clara.

Sanford was a mentor to students at Pleasant Valley School for many years, an involved and dedicated member of Congregation Gates of Heaven, a volunteer gardener at the synagogue and the Central Park Rose Garden, and a meticulous maintainer of his own yard until his health prevented him from continuing to do so. He loved professional basketball, following politics, but most importantly, connecting with anyone he met along the way whether at the Sunnyview Wellness Center, visitors to his home, shopping outings or restaurants, sharing his stories and jokes.

Sanford will be remembered for his devotion to his family and friends, his sense of humor which remained a part of him until his last day, his kindness, and the unwavering love he shared with Suzanne throughout their life together. He leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories that will continue through his children, grandchildren, extended family, and friends.

Sanford’s family wishes to express special thanks to all of his home caregivers that provided him with support, humor, good food and conversation and allowed him to remain in his home as he wished.

Those wishing to remember Sanford in a special way can make memorial contributions in his name to Congregation Gates of Heaven.

Funeral services for Sanford will be held Friday June 26th at 2:00 pm at Congregation Gates of Heaven, 852 Ashmore Ave. Burial will follow at The Gates of Heaven Cemetery. Friends will be invited to gather at Sanford’s home after the interment

.

To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Sanford Fialkoff, please visit our Tree Store.