Siegfried R. J. Scherneck, 83, of Failing Ave., St. Johnsville, passed away quietly at St. Mary?s Hospital, Amsterdam, NY on Saturday November 17, 2007. He had suffered from a long illness and was a patient at the St. Johnsville Rehabilitation and Nursing Center for the past 4 years. He was born on July 29, 1924 in Pirna, Germany. He was the son of the late Alfred and Frieda Scherneck. He was married to Ingeburg Potzschke in 1945 in Germany. His father owned a textile and apparel shop when he was growing up which led to his own interest in textiles. In 1958, he left Germany to start a new life in the United States. Siegfried arrived in St. Johnsville leaving most of his belongings behind and not knowing English. He established a residence for his family who arrived the following year. Siegfried brought the knowledge and training that he received working in the textile industry in West Germany to Helmont Mills owned by Gehring Textiles. He began his work there as a textile mechanic, but, because of his love for the textile trade and his great dedication to his work, Siegfried, also known as ?Fred? by his friends and colleagues, eventually attained the position of plant manager at Helmont Mills. He was well liked by those who knew him, always taking the time to tell a quick story about something he experienced in his homeland. He retired from Helmont Mills in May of 2002. Survivors include his wife, Ingeburg of St. Johnsville, two sons, Kim S. Scherneck of St. Johnsville, and Lutz U. Scherneck and his wife Darlene of Dolgeville, two daughters, Elke Reitz and husband Lothar of Dresden, Germany, and Michele Scherneck of Middlebury, CT, three grandchildren, Ilse Scherneck, Sylvia Rodel and Torsten Reitz, three great grandchildren, Luisa Rodel, Alene Rodel and Zavia Jamie, and several nieces, nephews and cousins. In keeping with Siegfried?s wishes cremation will take place under the direction of the Enea Family Funeral Home, 9 Center St., St. Johnsville, NY. The lack of material things and freedom during World War II led to Fred?s love of travel and a desire to see the world. He did this as much as he could during his life. He will take one last journey when his remains are returned to the town in Germany where he began his life. Flowers and condolences can be sent to the family?s home in St. Johnsville.