Julia Cole Kneissl

SLINGERLANDS - Julia Kneissl, age 90, reunited with her beloved late husband, Bill, on Sunday July 26, 2026. She is survived by her children, Adrienne (Simon) Rudolph, Jim Hancock, Deirdre (Ray) Rudolph, Eileen (Douglas) Smith, Elizabeth (Katerina) Kneissl, and Eric (Shelly) Kneissl; her cherished grandchildren, Heidi, Tristan, Julia, Clare, Brandon, Sophia, and Ronan; and her brother, Tom (Anne) Cole, along with their children in New Zealand.

Born in Dunedin, New Zealand, to Tom and Clara Cole, Julia attended St. Hilda's Collegiate School for Girls before graduating from the University of New Zealand, where she later taught consumer arts and textiles. The opportunity to travel arose during her first marriage, when her husband undertook medical training at McGill University. After living in Montreal, where she formed lifelong friendships, she settled in Albany, New York, in 1964.

Julia earned a Master of Social Work and devoted her career to supporting children, families, and older adults. She taught Human Services, specializing in Gerontology, at Hudson Valley Community College for twenty-three years, retiring as Professor Emeritus. She also completed postgraduate training in family therapy at the Nathan Ackerman Institute, maintained a private counseling practice, worked with Catholic Family Services, and received a Certificate of Excellence for directing Hudson Valley Community College's Peer Information Center.

Later in life, Julia met her soulmate, Bill, and together they shared many happy years, including winters in Port Charlotte, Florida, where they were active members of St. Max's Catholic Church. They eventually made their home at The Beverwyck in Slingerlands, where they enjoyed wonderful years surrounded by cherished friends and a supportive community.

An accomplished writer, Julia authored three books, led a memoir writing group, and found great joy in helping others tell their stories. She remained deeply grateful for the remarkable journey that took a little red-haired girl from Dunedin to a life filled with family, friendship, purpose, and love.

As per her wishes, Julia has been privately cremated. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, July 31st at 11 a.m. at the St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church, 900 Madison Ave., Albany, followed by burial at St. Agnes Cemetery in Menands. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Vincent's Food Pantry, 900 Madison Ave., Albany, NY 12208. Online condolences may be offered at danielkeenanfuneralhome.com.