COHOES – Walter J. Forman, a lifelong resident of Cohoes and a man of remarkable intellect, compassion, wit, and heart, passed away peacefully on May 25th at the age of 73.

Born to Helen Curran Forman, he carried throughout his life a deep love for his family, his Irish heritage, his beloved hometown of Cohoes and the pursuit of justice and knowledge.  A gifted student and lifelong learner, he attended Keveny Memorial Academy, Siena College, the State University of New York at Albany, and later earned his law degree from Albany Law School.  His passion for justice and civic responsibility revealed itself early when, at 23 years old, he was elected to the Cohoes School Board, becoming one of the youngest individuals ever to serve in that role. He went on to build a career in public administration working in the New York State Assembly, the Office of the Mayor, served as a Cohoes City Court Judge and was agency counsel to the Albany County Industrial Development Authority. He was a brilliant writer, an avid reader, and a man endlessly curious about the world. Newspapers from cities and countries around the globe regularly filled his home, reflecting both his intellect and his desire to stay connected to people and events far beyond his own community. Despite his wide-ranging interests, Cohoes always remained the place closest to his heart. He possessed the treasured Irish gift of storytelling. Conversations with him were rarely brief. Whether sharing history, humor, observations about politics and humanity, or family stories told with perfect timing, he made people feel both entertained and understood. He possessed a beautiful singing voice and proudly sang a solo at the New York World’s Fair, a memory that remained special throughout his life. Above all, he treasured family. He often said that he and his sister were “the best friends anyone could ever have,” a bond that remained unshakable throughout their lives. He is survived by his loving sister, Anne Saile (Larry Myers); his cherished nieces, Curran Streett and Lindsay Saile; his aunt, Nancy J. Curran; his one grandnephew and four grandnieces; and many beloved cousins and friends including his devoted friend Wanda Griffen, whose lives were enriched by his intelligence, humor, kindness and conversation. He was predeceased by his mother Helen Curran Forman. Those who knew him will remember a man of extraordinary mind, deep convictions, generous spirit and unmistakable voice – someone who loved words, ideas and Cohoes with equal devotion.Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial at 1:30PM on Saturday May 30, 2026, at the Church of the Holy Trinity, 122 Vliet Blvd, Cohoes. For directions and guest registry visit www.dufresnefuneralhome.com