Father Albin Fusco, O.F.M.

SCHENECTADY - Father Albin Fusco, O.F.M., 96, a native of Schenectady, passed to eternal life on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at the Teresian House, where he had resided for the past several years.

Born Dominic Armando Fusco in Schenectady on December 28, 1929, he was the son of Pasquale and Albina (Fracasso) Fusco. He was a graduate of Nott Terrace High School, Class of 1948. He continued his education at St. Bonaventure University, where he pursued studies in theology and Franciscan studies. He later continued his theological formation in Toronto, Canada.

Father Albin entered the Franciscan Friars’ formation program and was received into the novitiate in 1952. He professed his first vows in 1953 and his solemn vows in 1956. He was ordained to the priesthood on May 20, 1961. One of his greatest joys was celebrating his first Mass at his home parish, St. Anthony’s Church in Schenectady.

Throughout his years of ministry, Father Albin served in several assignments within the Franciscan province, primarily in parish ministry. He was widely appreciated for his thoughtful homilies, warm presence, and deep pastoral care for the people he served. Parishioners often spoke of how his words touched their lives and strengthened their faith.

In his later years, Father Albin resided at St. Anthony’s Friary in Catskill. He was deeply devoted to his Franciscan vocation and cherished both his family and the many parish families he served throughout his priesthood. His life was marked by a profound love for God, his family, and the communities entrusted to his care.

He is survived by his brother, Emilio (Mel) Fusco, with whom he shared a close and enduring bond throughout their lives, and Mel’s wife, Mary Fusco; a nephew, David, and his wife Phyllis Fusco; nieces and nephew, Christina (Josh) Lastarza, Nicole Fusco, and Michael (Mikayla) Fusco; as well as a great-nieces and great-nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be concelebrated on Friday, March 13, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Anthony’s Church, 331 Seward Place, Schenectady, NY. Interment will follow in the family plot at St. John the Baptist Cemetery.

Relatives, friends, and fellow Priests are invited and may call at St. Anthony’s Church on Friday from 9:30 a.m. until the time of Father Albin’s Mass.

Memorial contributions may be made to Franciscan Mission Associates, which supports the Franciscan Mission work in Central America; 273-280 West Lincoln Avenue, Mt. Vernon, NY 10551-0598; the Matthew 25 Food Pantry, MT25, 8 Union St., Catskill, NY 12414, a pantry run by a secular Franciscan who was friends with Fr. Albin, or St. Anthony’s Church, 331 Seward Place, Schenectady, NY 12305.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” May the Lord grant him eternal rest, and may he share in the peace and joy of St. Francis.”