Doherty, Michael J.

ALBANY- Michael James Doherty, 78, of Albany, NY passed away October 5, 2022, after a brief fight against cancer. Mike was born in 1944, to Francis and Mildred Doherty and grew up in Albany. He was a 1962 graduate of Cardinal McClosky in Albany. Mike graduated with an Associate’s Degree in Landscape Development from SUNY Cobleskill. He married his high school sweetheart, Gloria (Piela) Doherty, September 12, 1964 and together they raised 5 children and Gloria’s brother, Walter Piela, Jr.

Mike was a man who loved to work with his hands. He was a landscaper and landscape designer for many years working at Van Geest Nursery in Colonie, NY. His landscape designs were highly sought after and many were award winning. Mike was a jack of all trades and worked as a home remodeler with his good friend, Mike Gregg. Mike was a family man and made many memories with his children, grandchildren, and friends with many holidays and get-togethers shared at home with so much love. He was an avid fisherman and spent many summers fishing on Lake Champlain.



Within 24 hours of his passing, Mike lost his wife of 58 years, Gloria Doherty. He is survived by their children, Michele (David) Gerhard of Voorheesville, Julie (Clifford) Nooney of Feura Bush, Patrick (LeeAnn) Doherty of Guilderland, and Kelly (Bryan) Connor of Ballston Spa. He was a loving grandfather to Ryan Gerhard, Matthew Nooney, Rae (Quill) Nooney, Meaghan Doherty, Kailyn Doherty, Carly Connor, and Avery Connor; brother of Barbara (Robert) Norton, Thomas (Therese) Doherty, Kathleen (Kurt) Miller; and Brother-in-law of Walter Piela, Jr.; also survived by many nieces and nephews. Mike was predeceased by his parents, Francis and Mildred Doherty; his son, Christopher Doherty and a grandson, Marshall Connor, born to heaven. A Private memorial will be held at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be made to The Community Hospice, 310 So. Manning Blvd., Albany, NY 12208.