Annina M.P. Clas

Schenectady- Annina Maria Paonessa Clas, 86, wife of the late Jack Clas passed away peacefully December 28 2025. Nina is survived by her sisters Maria Kolber, Tommaso Paonessa (Laura), Angela Paonessa (Frank DeNucci), Rosa Stalteri (Vincenzo), sister-in-law Maria Paonessa, sister-in-law Marcel, as well as many nieces and nephews. She is predeceased by her parents Francesco Paonessa and Maria Costantina Rotella Paonessa, her brothers Salvatore Paonessa(Marcel),Filippo(Maria) Paonessa, brother-in-law Vincenzo Stalteri . Nina was greatly supported by her sister Angela, and Frank DeNucci, her sister Rosa, her sister-in-law Maria, her nephew Joe Stalteri, and her niece Sheri LoGiudice all who helped her live independent at her home in Schodack, and later at the Schenectady Center. This team of caregivers provided extraordinary care, compassion, and empathy in her twilight years. In addition the Family wishes to thank the staff at The Schenectady Center for their extraordinary care and love. Throughout her life Nina worked at various restaurants, including working with many noted chefs. Her culinary skills were well appreciated among her friends as she loved to entertain guests at her dinner parties. Nina’s vegetable gardens provided the base for many of her wonderful recipes. As well, Nina grew lemon trees and other plants in her green house. She took pride in carrying out her family’s tradition of winemaking, proudly growing her own grapes. Nina enjoyed cross country skiing and bowling with her circle of friends. Nina traveled throughout the world creating many memories. Her beautiful home in Schodack was the setting for the many cherished childhood memories her young nieces and nephews remember. As well her Sharon Lane property, named Esperanza, was the scene of many family picnics. Nina loved to sing her favorite Italian songs. She inherited her Father’s voice, and would breakout a song, whether it was in a restaurant or in a hospital, to the delight of all present with her. She was a vibrant woman who truly lived life to the fullest. Energetic and adventurous, she embraced a wide range of interests and talents that reflected her dynamic spirit. She loved cross-country skiing and bowling, took karate classes, and could move gracefully across a ballroom dance floor. Confident and capable, she was also an independent woman who knew how to take care of herself—and she wasn’t afraid to do so, skillfully handling a .22 rifle when needed. Music was a constant joy in her life. She loved listening to music and singing, often filling her home with song. Her voice and love of music were just one more expression of the warmth and happiness she shared so freely with others. An unwavering animal lover, she shared her life with many cats and dogs, each of whom held a special place in her heart. At one point, she even cared for peacocks. Her compassion extended beyond her home to the natural world around her—she delighted in feeding wild turkeys and deer and took great pride in nurturing the land she lived on. Summers often found her enjoying simple pleasures such as picnics and wading in her creek, moments that brought her deep peace and contentment. She was an exceptional gardener with a green thumb and a patient heart. Her vegetable garden and greenhouse flourished, including lemon trees she lovingly tended. She grew her own grapes and took great joy in making homemade wine, a reflection of her creativity, dedication, and self-sufficiency. Family and friendships were at the center of her life. She took great pride in entertaining and was happiest when her home was full. Over the years, she fed hundreds through countless dinner parties for family and friends, ensuring no one ever left her home hungry. She was known for her homemade bread and her excellent cheesecake, both shared generously with loved ones—and even with her veterinarian during visits with her beloved pets. Her home was always welcoming, her table always full, and her heart always open. Her warmth, generosity, love of music, and zest for life will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew her. Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Annina’s family Friday, January 2, 2026 from 9:30 am to 10:30 am at All Saints Catholic Church, 16 Homestead Street, Albany, NY 12203. Annina’s Funeral Mass will follow at 10:30 am in the Church. The Rite of Committal will be held at St. Agnes Cemetery Menands, NY. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages acts of kindness toward animals and donations to Saint Jude cancer research for children and ASPCA. To leave a message for the family or view other helpful services please visit www.mcveighfuneralhome.com.

Tributes

Annina M.P. Clas

October 25, 1939 - December 28, 2025