Jeffrey R. Wadler Obituary (2026) - Albany, NY - Levine Memorial Chapel Inc - Legacy

Jeff Wadler spent more than thirty years answering the calls most people run away from, working the midnight shifts in emergency rooms and rolling into chaotic scenes as a paramedic before settling down as a physician assistant.

According to Legacy, Wadler died suddenly on Tuesday evening, leaving behind a Capital District medical community that relied on his steady hand and a circle of family and friends defined by his distinct brand of dry, unflinching humor.

Born July 6, 1968, in Fleischmanns, New York—a spot he famously described as “centrally located in the middle of nowhere”—Wadler built his life around helping others navigate crises. His career stretched across emergency rooms and urgent care clinics in Hudson, Catskill, Amsterdam, and St. Johnsville. Colleagues knew him not just as a clinician who understood how to treat a trauma, but as a teacher who wanted patients and students alike to understand the mechanics behind their care so they could make informed choices.

A Life Rooted in Medicine and Community

Beyond his clinical work, Wadler poured his energy into local institutions. He served as a trustee for the Western Turnpike Rescue Squad, helping manage the vital logistics of emergency response in Albany County. He was an active member of Congregation Ohav Shalom and a former parent and trustee of the Hebrew Academy of the Capital District.

He is survived by his wife, Bess, his children Abigail and Sam, his mother Elaine, his sisters Mimi and Nomie, along with nieces, nephews, and a wide community of chosen family. His father, Abraham Arthur Wadler, predeceased him.

Funeral and Memorial Details

Funeral services will be held on Friday, October 30th, at 11:00 a.m. at Congregation Ohav Shalom, located at 113 Krumkill Road in Albany. Burial will immediately follow at the Ohav Shalom Cemetery on Western Avenue.

Family members have asked that instead of flowers, those wishing to honor his memory consider making a contribution to the Hebrew Academy of the Capital District, Congregation Ohav Shalom, or the Drexel Physician Assistant Program in Philadelphia.