Colonie - Joseph R. Connolly, 86, of Wilkins Ave., died Tuesday, October 23, 2012 at the VA Hospital in Albany. Born in Brooklyn, Joseph had lived on Wilkins Ave. for the past 47 years. He was a veteran of the United States Coast Guard, serving during World War II. For over 50 years, Joe worked as a pipe fitter for the Plumbers & Steamfitters Local # 7 in Albany. He was a former member of the West Albany Fire Department and in his younger years had been an avid bowler at Sunset Bowling Lanes in Colonie and golfer. Joe was very fond of cats, always having pets in his care. He was predeceased by his wife, Virginia Connolly and his daughter, Joyce Tarzia. Survivors include his son, Matthew Buckley (Bonnie) of Waterford; grandchildren, Melissa Buckley, Matthew Buckley, Jr., Nicholas Buckley and C.J. Leichenauer; great-grandson, Aiden Buckley; and close friend, Vera Caldwell. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 o'clock Saturday morning at the Reilly & Son Funeral Home, Colonie. Burial will be in the Riverside Cemetery in Coxsackie. Calling hours will be Saturday morning from 9 - 11 a.m., prior to the service.