Michael E. Chandler

Michael Earl Chandler, 63, passed away at his home on January 5th, 2025. Mike was born into a boisterous, loving, large family on September 17th1961 in Schenectady, New York. Being born the sixth of seven children, Mikey was adored by his older siblings and acquired many nicknames like “Cushy-boo” or “Mr. Moto”. From an early age it was clear that his beautiful blue eyes could get him both into and out of any trouble.

His father, Earl, managed the household with firm authority while his mother, Kathleen, offered guidance and nourishment to everyone who came her way. Together, they worked diligently to nurture a family grounded in strong Catholic faith. It was a time when dinnertime demanded silence, perfect posture, and plates wiped clean and The Chandlers were no exception to these norms. For the Chandlers, family extended far beyond blood relations. Their lives were always filled with the laughter of neighborhood kids and friends who became family. There were always extra people around, and one thing was clear: Chandler love knew no bounds.

Michael’s childhood was also shaped by his deep love of nature. Whether digging up gold and abandoned Hot Wheels in the backyard dirt pile, gathering with loved ones around a campfire at Schroon Lake, or swimming and fishing at Hidden Lake Girl Scout Camp, the outdoors played a central role in his life. In later years, he cherished time at his brother’s homestead in Unadilla, created lasting memories canoeing down the Oswegatchie River with his son and spent precious moments with his family on the shores of Maine. For Michael, nature was not just his playground but a vital part of who he was.

Music, too, was woven into the fabric of Mike’s life from the start. His upbringing was a symphony of family singing, filling their home and accompanying every adventure. The proud echoes of singing 'The Marine’s Hymn' together still resonate in the hearts of his surviving siblings. Similarly, his children will forever associate the music of Twenty One Pilots with the memory of their father's resonant voice.

As he grew beyond the simplicity of childhood, he and his brother, Tad, spent years working alongside their father, honing a variety of skills from plumbing to carpentry to electrical work. Earl not only instilled in Mike the knowledge to build and repair but also nurtured his innate talent for creating beautiful things with his hands. Whether crafting intricate sandcastles (and snow castles), piecing together 3D puzzles, or skillfully crafting several practical student housing enhancements, Mike combined functionality with creativity. These skills and passions paved the way for his long and versatile career as a master of all trades, from co-founding a water company with his brother to working as a Construction Project Manager and Contractor.

Among Mike's proudest achievements was following in his father’s footsteps, who served as a Marine, by joining The Army as a Combat Construction Specialist with the 464th Engineer Battalion. During his service, he was recognized with several achievement medals for demonstrating extraordinary leadership and ingenuity in his duties. Over the course of his combined active and reserve duty, Mike rose to the rank of Staff Sergeant. It became a running joke that Mike was either building amazing things or blowing them up!

Even more than his professional accomplishments, Mike took the greatest pride in his children, Joshua and Amber. He spoke with immense admiration and respect about Josh’s service in the Marine Corps and his leadership in the Civil Air Patrol. He was equally in awe of Amber, who earned nearly two college degrees with full honors before she was even old enough to legally step into a bar. Sunday afternoons held a special place in his heart, as they were dedicated to meaningful conversations with his daughter. The pride Mike felt for his children will endure forever, a lasting testament to the extraordinary life he lived.

In his later years, Mike faced many physical challenges as he grew older, yet he persevered with grace, optimism, and unwavering kindness, even in the face of suffering. He cherished deep philosophical and inspiring conversations with his sister Emily, savored meals and laughter at Arlene’s table, and relied on the care and companionship of Kate and Alan during countless doctor’s appointments. Though Alison and Theresa were far away, they stayed close in spirit, offering steadfast support whenever it was needed.

Mike found peace sitting in the sunlight at his front door, where he formed lasting bonds with a wonderful community of neighbors. Children passing by each day would stop to wave or say hello,

as he shared kind words and conversations with their parents. Many neighbors have expressed how deeply meaningful their connection with Mike was, even in a short time, a testament to his ability to brighten every life he touched.

Michael’s life was a beacon of love, humor, and wisdom. He brought joy to those around him with his endless knowledge, sharp wit, and boundless affection. His legacy is not only in the achievements he accomplished or the challenges he overcame but in the hearts he touched, the laughter he shared, and the light he brought into the world. He will be profoundly missed but forever celebrated for the remarkable life he lived.

He is predeceased by his parents, Earl Chandler Jr. and Kathleen McElroy Chandler and his brother Tad Chandler. Michael is survived by his children, Joshua (Alyssa See) Chandler and Amber Chandler, as well as their mother and his former wife, Debbie Chandler. He also leaves behind his sisters, Kate (Alan) Hamlin, Alison (Fred Johnson) Chandler, Emily (Bill) Witbeck, Arlene (Mac McBride) Moran, and Theresa (Peter) Fallon as well as his uncle, Edward McElroy.

Mike is survived by a large and lively group of nieces and nephews who brought joy, laughter, and energy to countless family gatherings; Molly Hamlin and her children (Jaydon and Lexie), Ryan (Jordan) Chandler, Brannon Chandler, Leah Jackson, Keely Johnson, Paige (Travis) Witbeck, Emma Witbeck, Chandler Moran, Malcom (Martine) Moran, Alexandra Fallon and Andrew Fallon. Mike was also blessed with many cousins who held a special place in the rich tapestry of his family legacy.

Calling hours will be Monday, January 13, 2025, from 4 to 7 p.m., at Jones Funeral Home, 2020 Central Ave., Colonie. A prayer service will be offered at 6:30 p.m., followed by military honors at 7:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution to the Wounded Warrior Project, woundedwarriorproject.org