ROTTERDAM -

Henry Pawlak, 86, of Rotterdam, passed away on April 24, 2026. Born in Poland on March 15, 1940, to Ignacy and Bronislawa (Pietrasek) Pawlak, Henry immigrated to the United States in 1951. He was a proud graduate of Mont Pleasant High School, Class of 1958.

A man of quiet strength and dedication, Henry served his country for four years in the United States Army. Following his military service, he built a long and respected career as a machinist at the General Electric Company in Schenectady.

On July 22, 1964, Henry married the love of his life, Maria E. (Gonzales) Pawlak, in Austin, Texas. Together, they built a life centered on family and simple joys. Henry was an avid fisherman and bowler who never missed a chance to cheer for his beloved NY Yankees. He had a sharp mind, often immersed in brain puzzles, and a soul that came alive when listening to Polish music or dancing.

Henry was predeceased by his siblings Laura Novakovic, Wladyslawa Pawlak, and Stanley Pawlak.

His memory will be cherished by his devoted wife, Maria; his children, Michael Eli Hernandez, James Pawlak, Cynthia (Weidman) Pawlak, and Rosanna (Willey) Pawlak; and his grandsons, Randall Stephan Bobik and Christopher Michael Bobik. He is also survived by his siblings Alexander Pawlak, Jane Agfalvi, and John Pawlak.

Services: A service will be held at Memory Gardens Memorial Park in late July or early August, followed by a celebration of life. Henry will be laid to rest in Memory Gardens, Colonie.

Memorial Contributions: In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Community Hospice, Gift Processing Center, 310 S. Manning Boulevard, Albany, NY 12208 (www.communityhospice.org).

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family, online at: SimpleChoicesCremation.com