John K. Muth

John Kenneth Muth
Niskayuna, NY – 1938–2025
John Kenneth Muth, 86, of Niskayuna, passed away peacefully on Thursday, October 23, 2025, at Ellis Hospital. Born in Schenectady to the late John and Edith DeForge Muth, John was a proud graduate of Mont Pleasant High School and Siena College.
John dedicated 35 years of service to the New York State Thruway Authority, retiring in 1997 as Director of Tolls. His career was marked by integrity, leadership, and a deep commitment to public service.
He was predeceased by his sister Patricia Capullo, brother Arthur Muth, and former wife Rebecca Lear-Muth. He is survived by his siblings Jacklyn Muth, Janet (Guy) Rucki, and Donald “Skip” Muth; his former wife Theresa and their children Douglas (Sonya), Suzanne (Christopher) Meiklejohn, Peter (Deanna), and Daniel (Shannon); his former wife Donna Palmer and their children Joshua (Crystal), Matthew (Desiree), and Andrew (Trista); and stepchildren Ronald (Hope) Mikat and Stephanie (Timothy) Smith. John was a proud grandfather to twelve grandchildren—Alyssa Stephens, Nicole, Danielle, Alexa, Lily, Remington, Cole, Loralei Muth, Zachary and Rayna Mikat, William and Lauren Smith—and great-grandfather to Larsyn Harrington.
John shared his life with his partner Shari Delaney and was surrounded by close friends including Bob Conahan, Wayne Rice and Joe Scavuzzo in North Carolina, and many cherished companions at the Glen Eddy in Niskayuna, especially those in the billiards and coffee groups.
A lifelong golfer, John was a member of McGregor Golf Course in Saratoga and Carolina Colours in New Bern, NC. He remained active well into his later years, frequenting the YMCA and participating in fitness and pool sessions. He and Becky also enjoyed horseback riding together, both in New York and North Carolina.
John was known for his warm, outgoing nature and his ability to strike up conversations with anyone, anywhere. His children often joked about his habit of chatting with strangers, but his charm and humor left lasting impressions and earned him many spontaneous invitations to join others at their tables.
While living in New Bern, John embraced the community by volunteering at a local historical site, where he portrayed Governor Tryon in full costume, and served as a guide on trolley tours. His enthusiasm and friendliness made him feel like a native wherever he went.
John will be remembered for his love of family, his zest for life, and the joy he brought to those around him. He was preceded in death by his beloved dog Bubba, whose companionship he treasured.
Calling hours will be held on Monday, November 10, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 12 noon at Gleason Funeral Home, Union Street, Schenectady. There will be no funeral service. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital or the ASPCA.
John’s legacy lives on in the laughter he shared, the stories he told, and the many lives he touched. Condolence messages may be left at www.gleasonfuneralhomeinc.com

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