Gregory Murray O'Dea

Albany-Gregory Murray O'Dea, 68, of Central Bridge. Son of Leo J. O'Dea, of Guilderland and the late Ethel E.(Betty) Murray O'Dea. Greg is Survived by his brother Bruce P. O'Dea and sister Sharon (Robert) Leddick, in addition to his devoted nephew and niece, Darron Leddick and Meghan Leddick and a large extended family. Gregory was predeceased by his wife, Eileen (Evans) O'Dea. Gregory was a US Army Veteran who served during Vietnam and was recognized as a skilled sharpshooter. He was honorably discharged after his years of service. Greg was a highly skilled mechanic, with many special certifications. He was very well known as a master transmission expert. He worked for New York State for over 25 years, retiring from the New York State Canals, in Waterford. Gregory had a unique ability to teach himself highly technical skills such as computer building and repairs in addition to all the mechanical operations of heavy equipment. One of the things he was most proud of, was his ability to learn how to self administer, home dialysis. He did this for over 7 years, running dialysis overnight while working full time days. He never lost hope that one day he would get a kidney transplant. He travelled to Mt. Sinai hospital, in NYC, multiple times a year, to consult with his team of Dr's. Finally, in April of 2017, he received a new kidney. He fought valiantly, suffering many setbacks, including rejection and infections. Greg remained hopeful that he would overcome all the obstacles, and return home. Sadly, his body was no longer able to recover and the drugs stopped working. He was told that the fight was over. He had won many battles between both mind and body, but the war was lost. He will be remembered as the guy who never, ever gave up. Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Greg’s family Sunday, January 28, 2018 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm in McVeigh Funeral Home, 208 North Allen Street, Albany, NY. Funeral services Monday, January 29, 2018 at 9:45 am from McVeigh Funeral Home, Albany thence to Blessed Sacrament Church, Albany at 10:30 am where his Funeral Mass will be celebrated. The Rite of Committal will be held in Our Lady of Angels Cemetery immediately following the Funeral Mass. To leave a message for the family, light a candle, obtain directions or view other helpful services please visit www.McveighFuneralHome.com

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Gregory Murray O'Dea

January 17, 1950 - January 24, 2018