Richard J. Zabinski

Richard J. Zabinski, P.E., of Albany, NY died at Albany Medical Center on Monday, December 21, 2015 having recently been diagnosed with cancer. He was 65. Born in Albany on March 27, 1950, Richard was the son of Joseph Zabinski and the late Florence (Smolinski) Zabinski. A graduate of Christian Brothers Academy, Richard completed his undergraduate degree in Civil Engineering at RPI in 1971 and earned his Master of Science in Transportation Engineering at Union College. He served in the Army Corps of Engineers, attaining the rank of Captain. Richard retired after a long career at the New York State Department of Transportation. He had many professional affiliations and accomplishments, having served as the International Director of District 1 of the Institute of Traffic Engineers, and as the 8th President of the Intelligent Transportation Society of New York (ITS-NY). He was an inaugural inductee of the ITS-NY Hall of Fame. A man of eclectic and eccentric interests, Richard loved the outdoors, enjoyed exploring state and national parks, and was member of the Mohawk-Hudson Power Squadron and the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary. A lifetime member of Mensa, Richard enjoyed attending science cafes and was a regular participant at the SciTech Cafe in Amherst, MA. He was also an avid amateur radio operator and an accomplished photographer. In addition to his father, Richard is survived by his two brothers, Michael (Patricia) Zabinski and Raymond (Linda) Zabinski. He was also the uncle of Joseph, Kevin, Stephanie, Mary Catherine, and Peter Zabinski. His gentle manner and sense of humor will be dearly missed. Relatives and friends are invited and may visit with Richard’s family on Wednesday, December 23, 2015 from 4:00 to 7:00 pm in the Lasak & Gigliotti Funeral Home, now located at 208 North Allen Street, Albany. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, December 24, 2015 at 9:00 am at Blessed Sacrament Church, Albany. Interment will immediately follow the Mass at Our Lady of Angels Cemetery, Colonie. Those wishing to remember Richard in a special way may send contributions to the American Cancer Society, 1 Penny Lane, Latham, NY 12110. To leave Richard’s family a message on their guestbook, obtain directions or view other helpful services, please visit www.LGfuneralhome.com

Richard J. Zabinski

March 27, 1950 - December 21, 2015