Elsie Lorraine Bandel Kowalchyk, 98, of Melrose New York passed away on December 23rd, 2025 after a brief illness. Elsie was born in Shushan, New York in 1927, daughter of the late John and Mary Bandel. She is survived by her daughter Carol Ann, son-in-law Ray Weeks, grandson Connor Weeks, sister Helen Campigno, sisters-in-law Eleanor Bandel and Connie Kowalchyk, many nieces and nephews and many, many treasured friends.

She is predeceased by her husband, John Kowalchyk, her brother, Warren Bandel and sister, Dorothy Thomas.

After graduating high school at Salem Washington Academy and completing an associates degree, Elsie went on to work at Selective Service and then Hoosic Valley Central School District.

Elsie was an active member of many community groups over the years. She was a 4-H leader, the president of the Schaghticoke Library and president of the Valley Falls Women's Club. Elsie was a devoted member of the Melrose Methodist Church, having served as trustee and chaired many committees. She was the choir director there for 69 years, inspiring members of her choir and sharing beautiful music with the congregation.

Elsie's passion for music was unparalleled. Beginning to sing publicly at the age of four, she would share her beautiful voice at weddings, church services, community events and during her long membership in Troy Musical Arts.

Besides being so involved in her community, Elsie enjoyed spending time in her garden; everything she touched grew.

Her kindness and generosity stretched beyond her church, her friends and her community. Her willingness to help others was unmatched. She made a difference by the way she lived and touched so many lives. And she did so with a cheerful energy and a can-do spirit. No matter the task, long term or short, Elsie was always willing to take up the challenge. Whether she understood the aspects of the job or not, she would always just dive right in – the truest definition of a faithful and fearless volunteer.

Through your music, your super-human spirit and your simple acts of kindness, you have made an indelible mark on countless lives.

May God bless you and keep you.

A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held at Melrose Methodist Church, 20 Church Street, Melrose, New York 12121, on Saturday January 3rd at 11:00 AM. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in memory of Elsie to the Melrose Methodist Church.