Jennifer L. Stelzer

Jennifer L. Stelzer, age 57, passed away peacefully on July 16, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer, surrounded by the love of her life, Mike; her beloved children, Samuel and Emily; and her mother, Diane.

Jen’s story began in Chicago, where she was the cherished daughter of Diane Laubinger, and her adoptive father, the late Albert O. Laubinger. Jen treasured her friends and was deeply grateful for the remarkable people who became part of her journey from Chicago, to Metro Toronto, Vermont, Northern Virginia and ultimately Upstate New York.

Jen met her soulmate, Mike, through a mutual friend who described him as “liberal, a vegetarian, and kind of weird like you.” After their second date, Jen told friends she could already picture herself marrying him. She was right. Together they shared nearly 23 wonderful years of marriage filled with love, laughter, adventure, and unwavering partnership. Their greatest joy came with welcoming their children, Samuel and Emily. She was a devoted and supportive sports mom and a fierce advocate for her children. Jen often said, “her kids were the most important piece of her life”.

Jen is survived by her devoted husband, Mike; her beloved children, Samuel and Emily; her mother, Diane Laubinger; her stepsisters, Judy Green and Jayne Mayes; her brother-in-law, Peter (Karen) Stelzer, and their children, Kate and Maya; sister-in-law, Karina (Brandon) Thibodeau, and their children Stephanie and Patrick (deceased). She was predeceased by her adoptive father, Albert O. Laubinger.

Beyond her professional life, Jen generously gave her time to her community. She volunteered in the Shenendehowa Central School District, where she supported students, families, and school programs with the same warmth and generosity that defined every part of her life.

Jen began her education at the University of Vermont, then graduated from the Ellis Hospital School of Nursing, earned a bachelor’s degree with department honors from Russell Sage College, and received a Master of Science as a Family Nurse Practitioner from Sage Graduate School. As part of her studies, she was awarded for her excellence in obstetrical nursing and outstanding academic achievement.

Jen dedicated her career to caring for others and was a medical professional for over 30 years. She spent 10 years at Saratoga Hospital, where she was grateful to work alongside people she admired and genuinely cared for like family. Recently, she served in another community of wonderful friends and colleagues whom she respected deeply at Nuvance Health in the Compliance Department. She thoroughly enjoyed digging deeper into the details and solving challenging problems. Throughout her career and life, she was a passionate advocate for healthcare equality, civil rights, and ensuring every person was treated with dignity, respect, and compassion.

Jen was a prolific reader, loved to travel, and spend time with their beloved dog, Lewy, who was never far from her side. She will be remembered for her quick wit and wisdom, fierce determination and generous spirit. Jen’s greatest legacy is the love she gave to her family. She will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever carried in our hearts.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the many family and friends who surrounded them with love and support throughout Jen’s illness. They also express their deepest appreciation to Dr. Michael Cohen for his excellent medical care.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to a favorite charity. Friends who wish to support the 529 College Savings Plans established for Sam and Emily, may do so by visiting www.UGift529.com and using code 47Z-G0Z for Sam and Z5X-31B for Emily.

A Celebration of Jen’s Life for family and friends will be held at a later date.