Andrew "Stretch" Michael Phelan Jr.

Andrew “Stretch” Michael Phelan, Jr. passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his family, on November 21, 2025, at the age of 80. Born on June 10, 1945, Andrew lived his entire life in Albany, New York, a city that shaped him from childhood and remained the place he proudly called home. He attended Albany City Schools and graduated from Albany High School in 1964. Two years later, he answered the call to serve his country, proudly serving in the United States Army from 1965 to 1967 during the Vietnam War. He served in the 704th Maintenance Battalion, 4th Infantry Division. His service reflected the courage, loyalty, and quiet strength that would define him throughout his life. Upon return from Vietnam, Andrew resumed work with Niagara Mohawk where he spent most of his career as a traveling operator retiring after 41 years in 2006. On June 29, 1968, Andrew married the love of his life, Deborah Claire Oliveira. Together they shared 57 years of marriage, building a life rooted in devotion, humor, and deep companionship. They raised four daughters, each carrying forward his gentleness, resilience, and steadfast heart: Kristen (David) Haugh, Lauren (Michael) Johnson, Aimee (Louis) Fedullo, and Raechelle (Michael) Prim. Being a father was one of Andrew’s greatest joys. He approached parenthood with warmth, Patience, and an unwavering sense of responsibility, offering his daughters a foundation of safety, humor, and unconditional love. Andrew was deeply committed to his community. He was a proud member of the Ward Pond Club, the Elks Club, the Ancient Order of Hibernians, and the Knights of Columbus. He served the City of Albany with distinction as a member of the Citizen Police Review Board, appointed by former Mayor Gerald Jennings. He volunteered for the Disabled Veterans as a driver. He also took great pride in hosting for 30 years his annual Policeman’s Ball, an event reflecting his respect for public service and his dedication to those who protect and serve the community. Family time meant everything to Andrew. He cherished vacations with his family in the Outer Banks, and more recently on Martha’s Vineyard. Some of his happiest moments were spent sailing in Vineyard Sound alongside his brother-in-law, Daniel Oliveira, where the sea breeze, wide horizon, and shared laughter brought him deep joy. Andrew now joins in Heaven his beloved parents, Andrew Michael, Sr. and Ethel (Barr) Phelan; his brother-in-law’s, Dennis McAuliff and Col. Branch Moeling; and his infant granddaughter, Laura Anne Fedullo, whose spirit he now holds close once again. He is survived by his devoted wife, Deborah; his four cherished daughters and four sons-in-law; and his loving sister, JoAnn. Andrew was immensely proud of his twelve grandchildren: Aine, Joseph, and Ciara Haugh; Victoria and Skylar Johnson; Nina, Louis, Elena, and Annika Fedullo; Liberty, Andrew, and Donovan Prim. His cherished godchildren are Maureen Bennett, Patrick McCarthy, Kelly Ann Evan’s, Matthew Devane and Matthieu Oliveira. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and cousins, all of whom will remember him with affection and gratitude. Andrew will be remembered for his quiet strength, gentle humor, and the grounded presence he brought to every room. His loyalty ran deep, offered freely and without fanfare. Those who knew him felt supported simply by his being there — steady, sincere, and attentive in the ways that truly mattered. His life became part of Albany’s own story, reflected in decades-long friendships, familiar routines, and a profound sense of belonging to the community he cherished. His legacy lives on in his family, in the values he embodied, and in the enduring imprint of his spirit. The family extends heartfelt thanks to the Veteran’s Administration and Community Hospice for their compassionate care. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made in Andrew’s memory to the Community Hospice 310 S. Manning Blvd., Albany, NY 12208 or the charity of one’s choice. Relatives and friends may visit with Andrew’s family Tuesday, November 25, 2025, at McVeigh Funeral Home, 208 N. Allen Street, Albany, NY 12206 from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm. Please enter the funeral home from the rear parking lot entrance only. Andrew’s funeral service will be Wednesday, November 26, 2025, at Historic St. Mary’s Church, 10 Lodge Street, ( Rev James Lefebvre Way), Albany NY 12207 where his Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 9:30 am. The Rite of Committal will be 12:00 p.m. at Gerald B.H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, Schuylerville, NY with full military honors. To leave a message for the family or view other helpful services please visit www.mcveighfuneralhome.com.

Tributes

Andrew "Stretch" Michael Phelan Jr.

June 10, 1945 - November 21, 2025