WESTERLO – Alan Croote went home to be in eternal peace with his Father in heaven on Sunday, November 4, 2012, following a long illness. He was in the care of Albany County Hospice in his home for the last year, and at the Hospice Inn of St. Peter’s Hospital for the last week. He was 68 years old. Alan was born in Schenectady on December 30, 1943, son of the late Lawton and Marietta Lambert Croote. Alan was a farmer, builder and roofer; a loving husband, father and grandfather. He was affectionately known by many as “the hay man”. He lived most of his life in Westerlo and loved the Hilltowns, where he saw and appreciated God’s handiwork in nature. Alan was with the First Baptist Church of Westerlo. Alan is survived by his wife, Susan; four children, their spouses, three step-children and two grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother and two sisters and their families; a half-brother and half-sister; many nieces and nephews. A calling hour will be Saturday, November 10, from 10 to 11 a.m. at A.J. Cunningham Funeral Home, 4898 State Route 81, Greenville. The funeral will begin at 11 a.m., followed by burial in Westerlo Rural Cemetery. If desired, a memorial donation to the First Baptist Church of Westerlo, PO Box 130, Westerlo, NY 12193 will be appreciated. Light a candle at ajcunninghamfh.com.