Forrest Ron Byrne

Forrest "Ron" Rankin Byrne of Altamont, NY passed away on November 8, 2023 at age 75.  He leaves a legacy of love, service, loyalty, and family.

Born July 17, 1948 to Beverly Hartmont and Francis Byrne, he grew up in the Chicago suburb of Country Club Hills, where he attended Rich Central High School. Before serving in the Navy Reserves, Ron graduated from the University of Miami with a degree in mass communications.

Ron spent his professional career as a tireless advocate for those in need.   He spent 20 years working for the NYS OPWDD (formerly OMRDD), which oversees services for  New Yorkers with developmental disabilities.  He helped raise public awareness around the challenges facing the developmentally disabled.   Ron endeavored to help these New Yorkers move out of institutions and live dignified lives in healthy communities.

In 1995, Ron co-founded the nonprofit Umbrella of the Capital District, where he remained as Director until his passing.  Umbrella's work has supported thousands of seniors’ desire to maintain their independence and stay in their homes.  Currently over 500 seniors and people with disabilities depend on Umbrella for essential home services provided largely by active retirees.  Umbrella has received awards and accolades both locally and nationally, but its hallmark has always been Ron’s selfless devotion to its members and his personal attention to their needs.

A passionate sailor, Ron spent many weekends plying the waters of Sacandaga Lake and Lake George. He was instrumental in founding the Y-KNOT accessible sailing program out of YMCA Camp Chingachgook on Lake George, where as “Captain Ron” he shared his love of sailing and sailboat racing with people with disabilities.

Ron lived a life of integrity, humor, fun and enthusiasm.  He brought his enormous heart, warm smile, sharp wit, infectious laugh and timeless wisdom into everything he did.  He loved flying a spinnaker with the wind at his back, quoting Caddyshack at length and expanding his collection of Lionel trains. He enjoyed an afternoon golfing, a well-timed joke, a pint of Guinness, and championing the Chicago Cubs in all their (very infrequent) glory.

Ron will be missed most dearly by the many friends, family and colleagues he leaves behind.  He is survived by his son, Patrick Byrne; his daughter, Kate Byrne; his former wife Beth Byrne; his brother Daniel Hartmont; his sister Caroline Joyce; and his partner Rebecca Stanley of Altamont,NY.

Family and friends are invited to visit on Thursday, November 16, starting at 11 a.m. followed by a memorial service at 1 p.m. at Bond Funeral Home, at 1614 Guilderland Avenue, Schenectady.  A celebration of his life will follow at 2:30 p.m. at Centre Street Public House, 308 Union St, Schenectady.   In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Umbrella of the Capital District, 9 Broadway, Schenectady, NY 12305.