Albert H. Vervaet, 85, Hannawa Falls, passed away Monday, Oct. 29 at his residence. Albert is survived by his daughters, Mary Anne Vervaet of Cornwall-On-Hudson and Susan Vervaet Riveland (and son-in-law Ralph Riveland) of Branchville, NJ; two grandchildren, Gregory F. Lamas and David J. Lamas; and a cousin, Lorna Valentine, of Coventry, England.

Albert Vervaet was born January 23, 1927 in Paterson, New Jersey to the late Oscar and Anna Lauder Vervaet. He was a graduate of Hasbrouck Heights, NJ, high school. He then served in the United States Navy during WWII from 1945-46. Upon his honorable discharge he earned a Bachelor of Arts in music from Ithaca College and a Master’s degree in music education from SUNY Potsdam.

Albert’s professional background included more than four decades of employment at all levels of public education: primary, secondary and higher education. His teaching career began in the Germantown public schools, and continued in the Washingtonville central schools, where he was a band director for 27 years. He then moved to Rome, retiring as the Coordinator of Arts for Rome City Schools.

Most recently he was an adjunct professor at the Crane School of Music, at SUNY Potsdam, creating and coordinating the Crane Overseas Experience, where students were afforded the opportunity to supplement their student teaching experience in England.

Albert enjoyed traveling and was especially fond of England, where he lived for four years. During this period, he directed the Hatfield Concert Band in Aylesbury, Hertfordshire, where he became known affectionately as their “American Conductor.”

Albert ultimately moved to and settled in New York’s North Country, a place he loved. He stayed very busy in his retirement. He was a frequent contributor of editorials for the Watertown Daily Times and for many other local publications. He had a great sense of humor. He enjoyed playing his trumpet. He was an automobile lover, especially of Volkswagons. Most importantly, though, he was a very loving and devoted father to his two daughters.

Arrangements are with the Garner Funeral Service in Potsdam. Online condolences can be sent to www.garnerfh.com. A memorial service will be held at a later date, to be determined.