Thomas G. Whiteside

It is with heavy hearts and great sadness that we announce the passing of Thomas G. Whiteside.

Tom was born on August 16, 1959, in Schenectady, New York, to Richard and Margaret (Atkinson) Whiteside. He attended Schalmont Grade School in Schenectady and General Brown High School in Dexter, New York.

To say Tom was a genius with his hands would be an understatement. He was a true craftsman with an extraordinary talent for building and creating. Following in his father's footsteps, Tom developed a true gift for carpentry, a talent that would become not only his livelihood but an everlasting part of his legacy.

Throughout his life, Tom worked as a self-employed general contractor, and owned and operated his own business, Saratoga Framing Contractors, Inc. He was also employed by several major contracting companies, including Chugach, Bette & Cring, and Bast Hatfield, with his most recent employment being with the New York State Office of General Contractors. What Tom could build with his hands was nothing short of remarkable. His craftsmanship was memorable, beautiful, and built to last. The things he created will forever serve as reminders of his incredible talent and the pride he took in his work.

Tom was happiest enjoying the simple pleasures in life. Whether hunting, four-wheeling, snowmobiling, or spending time at the family Whiteside camp with his brother John, he loved the outdoors and the freedom that came with it. He treasured time spent with family and great friends, especially when it involved a few laughs, great stories, and a cold beer or two. And if Lynyrd Skynyrd, country music, or some good old-fashioned rock and roll were playing in the background, that made it even better.

Tom could be tough as nails, a little—or a lot—stubborn, and was never one to sugarcoat much of anything. With Tom, what you saw was what you got. But beneath that tough exterior was a man with a heart of gold. He was quick-witted, had a great sense of humor, and loved nothing more than sharing a good laugh. Those who knew him best knew that behind his tough demeanor was someone who cared deeply in his own way.

Tom also had a special place in his heart for his dogs. They weren't simply pets; they were his loyal companions, best friends, and constant company. He found great comfort and happiness in their unconditional love.

Tom is survived by his three children, Ethan Whiteside (Katherine Ayala), Traci Hadynski (Christopher Fust), and Richard Hadynski; and his grandchildren, Madison Hathaway, Zacharie Hadynski, and Riley Hadynski.

He leaves behind his siblings, Patricia Veselka (Steve), Deborah Shullette, John Whiteside (Donna), Anne Giller (Andrew), and Susan Whiteside.

Tom will be remembered by his nieces and nephews, Rebecca Barney (Jake), Justin Whiteside (Dominique), Diana Shullette (Jan Coburn), Jessica Shullette (Christopher Kitto), Danielle Dupont (Nick), Molly Giller (Billy Swan), Samuel Giller (Rebecca Heilman), and Connor Whiteside (Madison); along with his great-nephews, Lucas, Dylan, Jaxson, Julian, Cooper, and Grant.

His surviving family includes his uncle and aunts, Bernie and Carol Atkinson and Joane Coyle, along with many cousins and extended family members.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Margaret Whiteside; his brother-in-law, Jeffrey Shullette; his niece, Elizabeth Giller; and his grandmother, Doris Byrnes.

The family would like to extend a special and heartfelt thank you to Tom's best friend, Shannon, and to Barb for the years of unwavering friendship, loyalty, laughter, and memories. Through the good times and the tough times, their friendship remained constant, and for that, Tom's family will forever be grateful.

Tom leaves behind more than the beautiful things he built with his hands. He leaves a lifetime of memories, laughter, stories, and a legacy that will live on through his family and friends.

He was a simple man and a free bird. He lived life on his own terms, loved the things that mattered most to him, and left his mark on this world in a way that was uniquely his own.

And whenever you hear a little Lynyrd Skynyrd playing, turn it up, raise a cold one, and remember Tom. He wouldn’t have wanted it any other way.

Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Fortune-Keough Funeral Home in Saranac Lake, NY. Per Tom’s wishes, he will be cremated.

Calling hours will be announced at a later date, with burial to follow at the Sand Hill North Dickinson Cemetery in Moira, NY.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Tom’s memory to a local animal shelter of one’s choice.