Louis D. Papa

Louis D. Papa, 73, of Albany, NY, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on July 16, 2025, after a long and courageous battle with cancer.

Born on June 10, 1952, in Queens, NY, Lou was a veteran of the United States Navy and served as a Gunner’s Mate aboard the USS Oriskany for 3 tours in the Vietnam War. Following his military service, he dedicated 30 years to the State of New York, supporting individuals with developmental disabilities in a career marked by compassion and commitment.

In retirement, Lou continued his lifelong devotion to community service, working as an Elementary School Aid and teaching karate at the Albany JCC for the past 15 years. Through his passion for martial arts, Sensei Lou left a lasting legacy, inspiring and developing countless youth by instilling discipline, confidence, and resilience that extended far beyond the dojo.

Lou was predeceased by his mother Margaret Kennedy Papa and his oldest brother, Michael Kennedy. He is survived by his brothers, Thomas/Jack (Irma) Kennedy, John Papa, and Donald Papa; his beloved nieces and nephews, Talia, Sean, Ella, and Leo; his lifelong friends Linda (Karl) Steffen and Jason (Nicole) Collins; and his faithful dogs, Senshi and Akai.

As was typical for Lou’s style, he did not wish to be the center of attention. He will be interred at the Saratoga National Military Cemetery with Military Honors at 2 PM on August 1, 2025. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, www.stjude.org

Lou will be deeply missed, but his spirit of friendship, service and mentorship will endure in the lives he touched.