Sue W. Lainhart

Sue W. Lainhart (née Walsh) passed away Saturday at her home in Altamont, NY. She was 81 years old. Sue grew up in Castleton, NY on the Dawn Dairy goat farm owned by her parents, Thomas Walsh and Dorothy Booth-Walsh. She graduated from The Academy of Holy Names, received a Bachelor's in mathematics from The College of Saint Rose, and a Master's in science education from Union College. She was a science teacher and taught biology and Earth science at East Greenbush High School for thirty-one years. Sue married Reid C. Lainhart of Altamont in 1970 and was with him until his death in November of 2001. She is survived by her son Charles Lainhart, his wife Kristina, and her grandson Michael Lainhart and his mother Laurie. Sue is also remembered by her step-sons Paul, Brian, and Alan Lainhart and their families. Sue and Reid lived on the Lainhart homestead, which has been in the family since 1768. After Reid's death, Sue remained on the farm and dedicated herself to preserving its historical legacy. She received a state grant for historical preservation and oversaw the renovation of two Dutch barns on the property. Her family is forever grateful to her home health aides, Alice Ault and Marsha Blood. Without them, Sue would have been unable to remain at home and independent. Sue wanted to live out her life at home with her dog, Foxy, and with their help she was able to do so. Services will be held at Fredendall Funeral Home in Altamont, NY on Thursday at 11:00 am. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research.