Charles W. Shatley

Charles W. Shatley, 96, of Rotterdam passed away peacefully on Wednesday June 24, 2026, at Shaker Place Nursing and Rehabilitation in Colonie. Born in Schenectady, he was the son of the late Charles and Lillian (Campbell) Shatley.

Charles proudly served his country during the Korean war in the U.S. Army, stationed in Germany as a Supply Cpl., where he met and married his first wife Elisabeth. He later served in both the Army and Air National Guards, bringing his total military service to 39 years. After his military service, Charles was employed as a maintenance worker at the Schenectady Armory, increasing his responsibilities to become the superintendent for the Amsterdam Armory, retiring in 1987.

Charles was an active member of the Rotterdam Elks, Rotterdam Senior Citizens, Plotterkill Volunteer Fire Department and the 109th Alumni for the Stratton Air National Guard Base.

Charles was a compassionate and generous man who enjoyed camping, gardening, and spending time with family and friends. As an outdoor enthusiast, many fond memories were made fishing, canoeing, and dirt biking in the Adirondacks. Charles loved to spend time tinkering in his garage, woodworking and doing odd jobs with his son Jerry.

He is predeceased by his wife Elisabeth (Herzog) Shatley, second wife Barbara (Messmore) Shatley and his sisters, Ruth Scott, Lorraine Rockstroh, and Dorothy Zeo.

Charles is survived by his daughter, Lorraine E. Westervelt (Gary), sons, Gerald F. Shatley (Vickie), Kevin L Shatley (Carol); one brother, Henry Shatley (Sandy) and two sisters, Charlotte Shatley, Catherine “Katie” Canter. He is also survived by nine grandchildren, Jeremy, Jessica, Julie, Brian, Matt, Mark, Drew, Jordan, Monica; three great-grandchildren, Daisy, Melody, Jackson; and several nieces and nephews. Charles is also survived by his special friend Mary Coblish whom he loved dearly.

Funeral Services for Charles will be held Tuesday June 30, 2026, at 10:30AM at the Bond Funeral Home 1614 Guilderland Avenue Schenectady. A visitation will be prior from 9:30-10:30 AM.

Interment with military honors will be in the Saratoga National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in his memory to the Animal Protective Foundation 53 Maple Ave Scotia, NY 12302