Copeland-Hammerl Funeral Home Obituaries

Obituary Preview: John Wattles, 63, of New Paltz, NY passed away on April 28, 2024.John was born January 13, 1961 in Hamilton, NY. He is the son of the late Robert Wattles and Rhea (Brown) Wattles who survives him.John loved art and sketching. He leaves behind a vast portfolio of ink and pencil drawings.He was known amongst his family for his homemade birthday cards using various materials. These cards will be cherished especially by his nieces for years to come. He was a collector of many things such as memorabilia, artifacts, and his extensive bank collection. John will be sorely missed by his family, especially his mom to whom he was extremely dedicated. Graveside services will take place at New Paltz Cemetery in New Paltz on Friday, May 3rd at 11am.He is survived by his mother Rhea Wattles and his sister Marta Benson of New Paltz, NY. He is also survived by his nieces Codie Benson of Stony Point, NY and Krista Benson of New Paltz, NY. He is predeceased by his father Robert Wattles, his brother Louis Wattles, and his brother-in-law Louis Benson.

Obituary Preview: Janet C. Klosterman, 84, of New Paltz, died Thursday, April 25, 2024 at Golden Hill Nursing & Rehabilitation Center.Born in the Bronx, she was the daughter of the late John & Frieda Ziegler.It is with heavy hearts we say goodbye, Janet a loving wife, mother, and grandmother. An avid enthusiast of card games, she found joy and camaraderie in every hand dealt. Whether gathered around the kitchen table or enjoying a friendly competition with friends, her laughter and competitive spirit filled the room, creating memories that will be cherished for generations.She would help anyone in need, and she was a people magnet. She was a beacon of warmth and affection, radiating love and kindness to all fortunate enough to cross her path. Her acts of kindness and generosity touched countless lives and served as a guiding light for all who knew her. Her unwavering love and devotion to her family were evident in every moment spent together, as she showered us with boundless affection and support.She was a devoted Catholic and a Charter member of the Cardinal Spellman 5800 Columbiettes where she served as 3rd President, as well as Vice-President of the Hudson Valley Chapter for two terms.Janet is survived by her husband of 66 years, James A. Klosterman of New Paltz, three children, Margaret Russo and her husband, Michael of Wantagh, NY, Janet Felice of Highlands, NJ and James J. Klosterman and his wife, Birgit of Modena, nine grandchildren, Christine, Jenna, Bryan, James, Lauren, Timothy, Kevin, Hallie and Briana, one great granddaughter, Dillon. Her niece, Kathleen Klosterman and several other nieces and nephews also survive.In addition to her parents, Janet was predeceased by a sister, Barbara Murdoch.The family will receive friends at the Copeland-Hammerl Funeral Home, 162 South Putt Corners Rd., on Sunday, April 28, 2024 from 2-6 PM.A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Monday, April 29th at 11:00 AM with Fr. Salvatore Cordero as the celebrant.Interment will follow in St. Charles Cemetery.Copeland-Hammerl Funeral Home is honored to assist the family with the arrangements.

Obituary Preview: Rita Acevedo, 86, of Wallkill, NY passed away peacefully on April 23, 2024.Rita was born on June 18, 1937 in the Bronx, NY. She is the daughter of the late Thomas G. Mauro and Angela Mauro.Miss Rita is survived by her children. Her son James, daughter in law Laura, two wonderful grandchildren Aria and Lylah, her daughter Liza, and husband Mark Olazabal. She also leaves behind her fur babies Toby and Bear. She is predeceased by her forever loving husband Efrain Acevedo and her sister Marie T. Mauro.Our Mother will be singing, dancing, writing, drawing, ice staking, being the life of the party and running the bases while playing baseball in, and I quote…. “The Big Teepee In The Sky” We know she will living her best sprit life.We love you, and until we meet again Ma. AKA Mama, Miss Rita, Mama Rita, Mom and Grandma. No memorial services will be held, the family will be attending a NY Mets baseball game as that was her last wish 🙂

Obituary Preview: Sandy Gonzalez, 61, of Modena, NY passed away on April 22, 2024.Sandy was born September 21, 1962 in Newburgh, NY. He is the son of the late William Carol Potter and Gloria Anne Kane.Sandy is a beautiful person was taken from us way to soon. He enjoys family gathering, beautiful days, family barbecues, and he also loved to go fishing and reel them in. He had many ambitions on getting better and living a fulfilling life. But god had other plans and thought he would be better with all the other angels he has plans for. They say wherever a beautiful soul has been, there are beautiful memories to follow. Sandy was that beautiful soul. Sandy came into our lives to leave footprints on our hearts, and we are never the same, don’t cry because it’s over, smile because it has happened.He is survived by his three children Heather, Nina, and Jason. He is also survived by his siblings Carrie Samaroo of Modena, NY, Bridget Blake of Arkansas, Susan Potter of Kingston, NY, Robert "Bobby" Potter of Highland, NY, and James "Chip" (Carol) Potter of Arkansas. He is also survived by many Nieces and Nephews, Cousins, and Grandchildren. He is predeceased by his brother William Potter.

Obituary Preview: There will be no calling hours

Obituary Preview: Mercedes Rosemary Carmella Parente Guenther died in her home on April 19, 2024, 5 days shy of her 95th birthday.Mercedes was one of 4 children of Rose Salvatore and Frank Parente of Italy. Mercedes spent much of her life in Yonkers, where she raised her son Mark, and worked proudly for 24 years at the Westchester County Department of Transportation. When she retired in 1992, she stayed in Yonkers caretaking her mother, Rose. Upon Rose’s passing in 2000, she sold the family home in Yonkers and moved to New Paltz.Mercedes was so proud of her home in the Village of New Paltz. Having grown up and lived for many years in Yonkers, she never learned to drive but was an expert in public transportation. In New Paltz Mercedes could and did walk everywhere. She made friends with her neighbors and was the official yenta of the neighborhood. Mercedes was a regular patron at the Plaza Diner, where she loved gossiping with the staff. When she went grocery shopping at ShopRite, the staff all knew her by name. She enjoyed many happy years of retirement listening to opera, watching her soaps, and later in life, spending time with her much beloved cats.Mercedes had one child, Mark Guenther, who predeceased her in April 2023. She is survived by her daughter-in-law, Laurie Willow, who took loving care of her in the last years of her life, by her two grandchildren, Jillian (Tierney) Steelberg and Sara Guenther, by one sister, Dolores Livoti and 11 nieces and nephews, as well as great-nieces and-nephews whom she loved very much.There will be a graveside interment and memorial at 11 AM on Saturday, May 25, at New Paltz Cemetery on Plains Road, followed by lunch in celebration of her life. For more information, contact Laurie Willow at 845 235 7511.

Obituary Preview: Robert H. Waugh, 81, of New Paltz, died Saturday, April 13, 2024 at Woodland Pond at New Paltz.Born in Fort Wayne, IN, in 1943, he was a son of the late Meade & Margaret Seabold Waugh.Bob earned a BA from Indiana University, where his advisor suggested he apply to Harvard or Columbia for graduate school. Bob asked if they had good libraries. He received a PhD from Harvard in Comparative Literature. He also met his wife there, who worked in the very good library and was given the happy task of training him. In 1968 the newlyweds moved first to Gardiner, then to New Paltz, where Bob taught at SUNY, New Paltz, for four decades. He taught a wide range of subjects in the English Department, from Greek and Roman Literature to Science Fiction. He wrote critical articles in scholarly journals, published poetry, horror stories, and critical works on H. P. Lovecraft, a horror writer of the 1930s.Bob was proudest of building a card-table-sized scale replica of Notre Dame de Paris in grade school, learning to ride a bicycle so he could cycle through Germany along the Rhine River, learning enough Danish in a week to enable him to read Hans Christian Anderson’s Fairy Tales in the original, adding to his reading knowledge of Middle, High, and Low German, French, Dutch, and Italian. He was also enormously proud of his son, Rowan.The Waughs traveled extensively in Europe, from Wales to Greece and from Norway to the Canary Islands. They travelled by bicycle, car, bus, train, canal boat, river boat, ocean liner. Food was another hobby; for years they hosted Soup Night, where people, once invited, were free to return. Some brought bread, or cheese, or wine; attendance ranged from 10-20. Bob was active in St Andrew’s for 54 years, serving as Lay Reader, Lector, and mover-of-chairs.Bob was blessed in doing a job he loved, doing it for decades with colleagues and students he loved as well. Some of those students became colleagues whom he mentored. He is remembered in the department for his kindness and his annual off-key, maniacal rendition of “Peggy Sue.” Bob moved into the memory unit at Woodland Pond in September 2023 with Alzheimer’s; a staff member reported when “Peggy Sue” came on the TV, Bob came dancing out of his room.Bob is survived by his wife, Katharine Adair Waugh of New Paltz, a son, Rowan Waugh and his wife, Dena Jaquillard of Playa del Rey, CA and a sister, Caroline Waugh Wyatt of Amelia Island, FL.A Funeral Service will be held on Friday, April 19, 2024 at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, New Paltz at 11:00 AM, with Pastor Allison Moore, officiating.Interment will follow in Rosendale Plains Cemetery.

Obituary Preview: Eleanor Seeland, 92, passed away on April 9, 2024, at her home in Modena. The daughter of the late Leonard and Marion (Scott) Owen, she was born March 1, 1932, in Fostertown, NY.A lifelong native of the local area, Eleanor earned a Master’s Degree in Education from SUNY New Paltz. Eleanor was a charitable person and philanthropic. She enjoyed volunteering her time to instruct children in religion on a weekly basis one afternoon a week. She also contributed to missionary work in Africa.As an member of  the Clintondale Christian Church, she acted as a Christian counselor, singer and musician. At St. Charles Church in Gardiner, NY, Eleanor was the church organist for more than a decade.Eleanor was a woman with many interests. She loved baking Christmas cookies and was well known for her chicken salad and her deviled eggs. Camping, fishing, and hiking activities often included the children of friends and neighbors, which reflected her generosity. She was a self-styled social worker who secured an old school bus which was parked in her backyard and used to collect donated shoes and clothing. Every autumn she provided warm clothing to migrant workers. Donations could be placed on her front porch. In addition, a table near the road held goods and merchandise that was freely exchanged. She also picked peonies from her garden and placed them on the table for anyone to take home and enjoy.Eleanor’s generous heart and community service earned her an award from the Daughters of the American Revolution for Women in American History, an award she was proud to accept. In 2007, she was awarded Citizen of the Year by the Town of Plattekill, for her long-standing volunteer work.Elders in her family were involved in the restoration of the Bannerman’s Island complex, and she regularly shared her memories of growing up on the island and became skilled at public speaking. Her recollections were compiled in a book called, “My Name is Eleanor”, thereby becoming an historic figure.Eleanor will be missed by her four sons: John Silvestri of Marlboro, NY; Daniel (Rebecca) Silvestri of Fort Pearce, FL; David Silvestri of Newburgh, NY: and Wayne Seeland of Modena, NY. She is also survived by six grandchildren: Joshua, Damion, David Jr., Erica, Tabatha, and Robert. She is also survived by her sister-in-law, Jacqueline Owen.She was predeceased by her loving husband Albert Seeland and by her siblings: Leonard Owen of Whitney Point, NY; Phyllis Thorsdale of Marshfield, MO; and Victor Owen of Wappingers Falls, NY. She was also predeceased by her daughter-in-law Lisa Silvestri of Newburgh, NY.The family will receive friends at the Copeland-Hammerl Funeral Home located at 162 South Putt Corners Rd., in New Paltz, NY on Tuesday, April 16, 2024 from 2pm-4pm and from 6pm-8pm with a service at 7:30pm officiated by Pastor Dan Whitley.

Obituary Preview: Dennis G. Martin, 75, of Kingston, New York, passed away on April 4th, 2024, surrounded by family. Dennis often referred to himself as an Earthling and will fondly be remembered by his family and friends as such. Sober since 2007, Dennis was an active member in the sober community and dedicated his life to helping others overcome addiction. He was passionate about this work and will be remembered as a trusted mentor, friend, and sponsor. Dennis loved to learn and was an avid Scrabble player, with the goal of playing the word ‘Quixotic’ on a triple/triple for 350+ points. He was also an avid baker and shared his delicious pastries with friends and family with joy.Dennis is survived by his son, Shawn, his daughters, Denise, Kayla, Jailene, Shannon and her husband Josh, as well as six loving grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister Linda and her husband John, his brother Dale and his wife Karen, and his brother Kevin. He is also survived by multiple nieces and nephews, whose companionship and care he greatly enjoyed. Dennis was predeceased by his parents, John Sr. and Eileen, and his brother, John Jr.Dennis’ children will host a Remembrance of Life service on Saturday, April 13th, 2024 from 1pm-4pm at Copeland-Hammerl Funeral Home in New Paltz, New York.

Obituary Preview: Lynn D. Karge, 74, of New Paltz, died Tuesday, April 2, 2024 at Vassar Brothers Medical Center.Born in Highland, she was the daughter of the late Charles & Dorothy Marie Baker Litts.Lynn is survived by her son, Scott N. Karge of New Paltz, her husband, Kurt J. Karge of Poughkeepsie, daughter in law, Cheryl Karge of Seaside Heights, NJ, an aunt, Florence Murawa of Highland, a cousin, Sherry Mackay of Modena and her special friend, Cindy Wilms of Gardiner.In addition to her parents, Lynn was predeceased by a son, Kurt M. Karge and her brother, Norman Litts.The family will receive friends at the Copeland-Hammerl Funeral Home, 162 South Putt Corners Rd. New Paltz on Wednesday, April 10, 2024 from 3:00 - 6:30 PM.A Memorial Service will follow at 6:30, with Pastor Gail Erdie, officiating.The interment will be privately held.Copeland-Hammerl Funeral Home is honored to assist the family with the arrangements.

Obituary Preview: Lorraine P. Montgomery, 77, of New Paltz, died Sunday, March 31, 2024, at Vassar Brothers Medical Center.Born in Poughkeepsie, she was the daughter of the late Roy & Jane Robison Claycomb.Lorraine was the beloved mother, grandmother, and great grandmother (Gigi) to her family, which she adored above all else.Lorraine was a long-time resident of Aloha Home Acres where she enjoyed the company of many dear and caring friends and she took part in many activities in the area including Bingo, Bible study, yoga and more.Lorraine is survived by two daughters, Marie Osarczuk, and her husband Steven of New Paltz and Debra Robertson of Saugerties; a brother, Jesse and his wife, Avis; a sister, Elaine; three grandchildren, Kaileigh Osarczuk and her husband, Jae Verner, Tucker Osarczuk and his wife, Erin, and Cain Osarczuk. One great grandson, Sam, several nieces & nephews and her beloved dog, Penny, also survive.In addition to her parents, Lorraine was predeceased by her brother, Wayne Stokes.The family will receive friends at the Copeland-Hammerl Funeral Home, 162 South Putt Corners Rd on Saturday, April 6, 2024, from 1-4 PM.The interment will be privately held.Copeland-Hammerl Funeral Home is honored to assist the family of Lorraine with the arrangements.

Obituary Preview: Eldeva Tofte, a cherished mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Saturday, March 30th, at TenBroeck Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing Center. She was 81 years old. Born on October 19th 1942 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Eldeva lived a life marked by love, generosity, and a passion for serving others.Eldeva’s journey began as the daughter of Robert and Eldeva Reed, and she grew up alongside her sister and life-long friend, Donna Reed. Her early years set the stage for a life filled with warmth and dedication to her family, her friends, and her church. Eldeva’s heart found its match in her beloved husband, Richard Tofte, with whom she shared many joyful years until his passing in 2008. They were married for 40 years and spent their entire married life living in their beloved hometown of New Paltz.Eldeva’s compassionate and caring nature carried over to her lifelong career in nursing. She exemplified what a nurse should be. She always put her patient needs first, staying late to finish up paperwork, working holidays, or arriving at the hospital in snowstorms where roads were barely passable. She was known to colleagues as a nurse who always put her patients first, whether in a hospital or at an in-home care setting. If a patient was in her care, they would have the best care. Professionally, Eldeva first started her career at Samaritan Hospital in Schenectady NY, then started working at Blue’s Nursing Home in New Paltz. After caring for her five children, she returned to work as a nurse at Benedictine Hospital, Kingston. Eldeva continued to happily work there until her retirement.Eldeva also served as a volunteer for the Committee of Special Education as a Parent Member for 12 years. She spent endless hours listening and supporting families who had children with special needs. She was always involved in the churches she attended, as well as Monday Night Bible Study and the Tres Dias Christian Community. She also participated in the Busy Bees Sewing Circle at Clintondale Christian Church as well as volunteering and cooking for their Fellowship Hour program. When her family and friends were sick, she took care of them with kindness and continued dedication.Eldeva had a life-long love of children (hers and anyone else’s) as well as her dogs and her many cats. She loved camping in her large family tent and later in her camper with her family as well as making home cooked meals which was always followed with a homemade dessert. Eldeva enjoyed many simple pleasures such as puzzles, watching her birds at her bird feeder, gardening, sewing, crafts, knitting, going out to eat, singing in the choir, going to church or Bible study, and talking on the phone to her friends. She and Richard adored making a welcoming home for their children and their friends, and also entertaining SUNY New Paltz college exchange students who sometimes lived with them for a semester. She enjoyed traveling; in her twenties she traveled to Turkey, Egypt, Germany, and Greece. In later years, she enjoyed traveling with Richard to Scotland, England, Bahamas, Martha’s Vineyard, and even once rode a mule down the Grand Canyon. Eldeva and Richard were thrilled to be grandparents and spent many hours visiting and watching their grandchildren. She and Richard loved going to the beach, rewatching old favorite movies, and visiting local historical sites.Eldeva is survived by her five children: Eldeva Tofte, Leah Tofte-Dorr and her husband, Cliff, Melissa Rabuffo and her husband Cliff, Laura Tofte, and Robert Tofte and his wife Kelly, as well as her sister, Donna Reed. She is the proud grandmother of nine grandchildren, Harrison, Oliver, Everett, Sophia, Raina, Bryce, Arlo, Silas, and Evelyn.The family will receive friends at the Copeland-Hammerl Funeral Home, 162 South Putt Corners Rd on Thursday, April 4, 2024 from 4-6 PM and Friday from 10:30 – 11:30 AM.A Funeral Service will follow on Friday, April 5th, at 11:30 at Copeland-Hammerl Funeral Home.

Obituary Preview: Martin H. Feldt, age 72, of Modena, died Sunday morning at home in his sleep.Marty was born March 31, 1951, in Poughkeepsie, NY the son of Martin and Ruth Feldt. He married Eileen O’Connor on August 10, 1974 at St. Charles Borromeo, in Gardiner, NY.While a carpenter by trade, Marty donned many caps including coach of several Wallkill town, travel, and high school soccer teams for both boys and girls. He was also a NY state track and field official as well as a USA Track official. He officiated events at the High School level, Empire State Games, and was extremely proud to participate as an official for the Special Olympics Track and Field meet out in Ames, Iowa.Always the outdoor enthusiast, Marty enjoyed a lifetime of activities such as hunting, fishing, and gardening. He also remained a loyal fan of the NY Mets and Jets, through thick and thin, rooting his teams on with his family.He is survived by his wife Eileen Feldt of Modena, NY; Daughter, Peggy Feldt of Norwalk, CT; Son, Andrew Feldt and Daughter-in -law, Heather Pindar of New Paltz, NY; Grandsons, Maclan and Crew Feldt; Sister; Gwen Feldt of Highland NY.He was predeceased by son, Josh Feldt and his parents, Martin and Ruth Feldt.Calling hours will be Monday, April 1, 2024 from 4 – 7pm at Copeland-Hammerl Funeral Home, 162 S. Putt Corners Road, New Paltz, NY. The funeral will be held Tuesday April 2, 2024 at 10:30am at Redeemer Lutheran Church, Route 32 South, New Paltz, NY with Rev. Tobias Anderson officiating.Donations in Marty’s memories may be made to the Joshua Feldt Memorial Scholarship, c/o Guidance Dept., Wallkill High School, 90 Robinson Dr., Wallkill, NY 12589.

Obituary Preview: Jean Ann McGrane, 73, of Gardiner, NY died Saturday, March 16, 2024. The town of Gardiner lost one of its most loyal, dedicated and hard-working residents.Jean Ann was born in Providence, RI in 1950. She was the only child of the late Raymond F. and Martha R. (Conneely) McGrane. In addition to her parents, Jean Ann was predeceased by John Caruso, her partner of many years.She attended Henry Barnard School and graduated from Classical High School in Providence, RI before graduating from Wellesley College, in Massachusetts. Jean Ann received her Master of Science from the University of Illinois School of Public Health in Chicago and earned her Juris Doctor from Rutgers University School of Law in New Jersey. She previously had been a member of Church of St. Mary in Newburgh where Rev. William Scafidi (Fr. Bill) was Pastor and recently rejoined Fr. Bill at his current church, St. Mary & St. Peter Parish in Kingston, NY.Jean Ann had many challenging jobs over an illustrious career and was widely recognized for her vision, effectiveness, and powerful dedication to the common good. Her work with the New York Health and Hospital Corporation left a powerful imprint on the city’s efforts to provide protection for urban workers. As NY State Department of Environmental Conservation, Regional Director, Hudson Valley, she was well known for her willingness to consult with the community and promote innovative, fair and effective decision-making procedures. As Newburgh City Manager she created an early Sustainability Plan for the city while promoting collaborative and inclusive planning practices for community restoration. In all these areas, her passion for environmental justice, sustainable design, and animal rights guided her work and structured her life.These commitments did not fade away when she retired. As rewarding as many of her career choices were, the essence of Jean Ann’s life rested in the powerful relationships she formed with co-workers, neighbors, and friends. She enjoyed an active, productive, and constructive retirement – from painting, gardening, traveling, singing, and serving as the Chair of the Gardiner’s Open Space Commission for the past five years. In addition, Jean Ann spearheaded the Community Preservation Fund campaign that was approved by the voters and will preserve open space for years. However, her most treasured time was tutoring her friend Yazmin to become a US citizen while deepening her connections to her community and taking an active interest in the future of Yazmin’s son Mauro. Her decency and compassion were evident in everything she touched.Jean Ann chose her friends and if you were lucky enough to be one of them, you knew you had a friend for life. But there was always more to her connections than people. Indeed, her dogs chose her, whether they appeared in New Mexico or in the NY subway ‘s Prospect Park station. Even the bears, wild turkeys and deer that wandered into her yard in Gardiner had someone who was more than happy to count them as part of her life. She is now ¬united and forever at peace with all the animals she loved so deeply.Jean Ann is survived by life-long friends from Rhode Island, New Jersey and New York as well as John Caruso’s two daughters, Drea & Mya and her two beloved cats Chloe and Carson.A Celebration of Life will be held at Copeland-Hammerl Funeral Home on June 22, 2024, gathering at 10:00 AM. Service at 11:00 AM. Jean Ann’s artwork will be on display. The Celebration of Life will be live streamed, and the link will be available at www.copelandhammeral.com

Obituary Preview: Laura Jean Coffey, 67, of Rosendale, died Wednesday, March 13, 2024 at Northern Dutchess Hospital.Born in Kingston, she was a daughter of the late Harold & Marilyn Clarke Coffey.Laura graduated from Suny New Paltz with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Fine Arts and graduated from the University of Albany with a Master of Social Work degree. She loved to read, excelled at drawing, painting with watercolors, and jewelry making. Laura is survived by her partner, Bill McCann of Rosendale, her son, Sean Cynomon of Catskill, a brother, Steven Coffey and his wife, Carole of Greenville, NY, a sister, Lenore Modugno andher husband, Felix of Kerhonkson. Four nieces and one nephew also survive.Funeral Service and interment for Laura will be held privately.Copeland-Hammerl Funeral Home is honored to assist the family of Laura with the arrangements.

Obituary Preview: Eugene E. Brackle, age 79, passed away peacefully on March 8, 2024. Born on September 10, 1944, to the late Emil and Margaret Brackle, Eugene spent his formative years as a first-generation American in New York, NY. After graduating from George Washington High School in 1961, he settled in New Paltz, NY, where he spent the rest of his life surrounded by loved ones, including family, friends, and pets.Eugene is survived by his three sisters, Linda Kalten, Vivian Nilsen, and Margarete Wagner, as well as his brother-in-law, George Nilsen. He held the cherished title of “Uncle Gene” among 11 nieces and nephews, along with 13 great-nieces and great-nephews.His professional journey included serving in the United States Air Force from 1963 to 2003, where he worked as an Air Traffic Controller until 1966, and later served in the New York Air National Guard (105th airlift wing) until 2004 as a Flight Manager Supervisor. Achieving the rank of MSgt, Eugene was also activated during Operation Desert Storm.Eugene was actively involved in various community organizations, including the 105th Alumni (NYANG), the Knights of Columbus, and the Tillson/Rosendale American Legion Post 1219. He served as President of the Die Bergvagabunden Schuhplattlers for a period of time. A regular attendee of St. Joseph’s Church, Eugene enjoyed spending his free time pursuing his interests in plants and animals.A visitation will be held at Copeland-Hammerl Funeral home (162 S. Putt Corners Rd., New Paltz, NY 12561) on Thursday, March 14th from 4 -7 pm, church service at St. Joseph’s Church (34 S. Chestnut St., New Paltz, NY 12561) on Friday, March 15th at 10 am and a celebration of life reception to follow location and time to be provided.

Obituary Preview: Rosalie A. Schembari, of Highland, died Wednesday, March 6, 2024 at Wingate at Ulster.Born in Brooklyn, she was the daughter of the late Michael & Mary Piccolo Morgano. In 1960 she married the love of her life and together they raised their three children. She held onto those memories and cherished them deeply.Rosalie enjoyed crafting and hanging out with her group of friends “The Golden Girls.” Everyone in her company and who knew her, enjoyed her personality and her sense of humor. She was known as “The Queen,” during her stay at Wingate, where she was cared for and loved for by many. In which her family would like to extend their appreciation to the staff at Wingate for their hospitality.Rosalie loved her family and her life. She fought and overcame many obstacles because of the love she had for her family. She remained strong and continued to fight until the very end. Her beautiful soul will live on. She will be missed and remembered by many.Rosalie is survived by her three children, Nancyann Calcagno and her husband, Benny of Tillson, two sons, Carmelo Schembari and his wife, Maria of Ringwood, NJ, Michael Schembari and his wife, Carol-Lynn of Staten Island, a sister, Michele Mercorio and her husband, Steve of Happauge, NY, grandchildren, Jennifer and her husband, Paul, Rosalie and her husband, Jesse, Christina, Frank, Vincent, Michael, Adrianna, Frank, and two great grandchildren, Emma and Chloe. Several nieces and nephews also survive.In addition to her parents, Rosalie was predeceased by her husband, Frank Schembari and a brother, Frank Morgano.The family will receive friends at the Copeland-Hammerl Funeral Home, 162 South Putt Corners Rd, on Sunday, March 10, 2024 from 2-6.A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Monday at 10:00 AM at St. Joseph Church.Interment will follow in St. Charles Cemetery.Copeland-Hammerl Funeral Home is honored to assist the family of Rosalie with the arrangements.

Obituary Preview: Gerard A. Fricker Jr., 87, of New Paltz, NY passed away on March 2, 2024.Gerard was born September 4, 1936 in Bronx, NY. He is the son of the late Gerard A. Fricker Sr. and Mary Fricker.He is survived by his children: Cathleen and Dan Coyle of Fishkill, NY, and Gerard and Doreen A. Fricker III. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Danny, Michael and Mellissa Coyle, Katie and Adam Dunford, Justin and Chelsea Fricker, Nicole and Scott Azar, Jessica Fricker, and Rachel Fricker. He is also survived by his great grandchildren Carter, Maddie, Owen, Emma, Hayden, Oakley, and Scotlyn.There will be a visitation service Friday March 8th from 10:00am – 11:00am at St Charles Borromeo Church located at 2212 US-44 In Gardiner.A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11:00am.Burial will follow at St. Charles Borromeo Cemetery after the service.

Obituary Preview: Barbara S. Drewnowski, 76, of New Paltz, died February 28, 2024 at her home.Born in Springfield, MA, she was a daughter of the late Charles & Esther Sjostedt Smith.Barbara attended school in W. Springfield, MA. She married Stan in 1968 and they moved several times before ending up in New Paltz, NY for the last 29 years. Barbara was a stay at home mom who was very active in her kids’ lives. She worked part-time for 20 years at the Gap, which she loved. Barbara loved to travel with her family and friends. She went on many trips in the U.S. and abroad. Her favorite place of all was Cape Cod, where she has been going almost every year since she was a young child. Barbara was always the life of the party. She had many friends. She was a devoted wife, mother, sister, daughter, and grandmother. Barbara absolutely adored her three grandsons and spent most of her time watching them play sports.Barbara is survived by her husband of 55 years, Stanley Drewnowski of New Paltz, a son, Daniel Drewnowski and his wife Michelle of New Paltz, a daughter, Sara Carle and her husband Chris of Homer, NY, a sister, Beverly McHugh of Boston, MA, three grandsons, Daniel, Tony & Nick. Several nieces and nephews also survive.In addition to her parents, Barbara was predeceased by a brother, Charles Smith.A celebration of life will take place at a later date, to be announced.Interment will be privately held.Copeland-Hammerl Funeral Home is honored to assist the family of Barbara with the arrangements.

Obituary Preview: Robert G. Gibney, 93, of New Paltz, died Thursday, February 22, 2024 at Vassar Brothers Medical Center.Born in Pleasantville, he was a son of the late Bradford & Edna Knapp Gibney.Bob served our country during the Korean War, as a Marine Pipe Fitter in the Air Force. In 1966 Bob purchased and ran the Country Store of Gardiner. He was also employed by Great American in New Paltz for 20 years as the Deli/Bakery manager. He was later employed by Vassar Brothers Hospital in the Engineering Department for 10 years.Bob was a volunteer for the Gardiner Fire and Rescue from 1966-1986 and a life member. He was a pilot and a member of the New Paltz R/C Flying Club. He was also an avid motorcycle enthusiast and rider for 76 years. He enjoyed playing his organ and was self-taught.Bob was a great father, husband and friend who touched the lives of many on his journey.Bob is survived by his son, William Domery and his long-time companion, Doreen Strang of New Paltz. Many nieces, nephews and friends also survive.In addition to his parents, Bob was predeceased by his wife of 52 years, Mary Gibney, a daughter, Leeann Domery and a brother, Joseph Gibney.A graveside service will be held on Friday, March 1, 2024 at 11:00 AM at St. Charles Cemetery, with Fr. Matthew A. Yatkaukas, officiating.

Obituary Preview: Madeline C. Paonessa, 76, of New Paltz, died Wednesday, February 21, 2024, at her home.Born in Brooklyn, she was the daughter of the late Thomas & Filomena DeCarlo Magliocca.Madeline was a loving daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, aunt, and dear friend. She treasured her family and was a loyal employee of Our Lady of Lourdes High School in Poughkeepsie for almost 45 years. Madeline valued her career at Our Lady of Lourdes not merely as a job but as a cherished second family. She enjoyed going to St. Joseph’s church and prided herself on being a good Catholic. She was one of the nicest and kindest people you could ever have the honor of knowing and she will be missed by all that were fortunate enough to know her.Madeline is survived by her two sons, Vincent A. Justino and his spouse, Trisha of Poughkeepsie, Thomas G. Justino and his spouse, Noemmi of Brooklyn, a sister, Elisa Reale and her spouse, Stephen of Fort Peirce, FL, a grandson, Gavin T. Justino and a granddaughter, Olivia Justino, two step sons, Anthony Paonessa and his spouse, Cindy of Liberty Hill, TX and John Paonessa and his spouse, Michael of Clermont, FL. In addition to her parents, Madeline was predeceased by her husband, Anthony Paonessa, a sister, Antoinette Gent and a step-son, Michael Paonessa and his widowed spouse Denise.The family will receive friends at the Copeland-Hammerl Funeral Home, 162 South Putt Corners Rd on Monday, February 26, 2024 from 3-7 PM. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Tuesday at 10:00 AM at St. Joseph Church, New Paltz.Interment will follow in Lloyd Cemetery.Copeland-Hammerl Funeral Home is honored to assist the family with the arrangements.Donate to Hudson Valley Hospice in the name of Madeline Paonessa.

Obituary Preview: John Joseph Kurta, 62, of New Paltz, NY passed away on February 12, 2024 at Vassar Brothers Medical Center.John was born March 10, 1961 in the Bronx. He was the youngest son of the late Frank and the late Gabriela (Deutch) Kurta.John enjoyed retirement after 30+ years at Eastern Alloys. He cherished spending time with his grandson, wife, and beloved dog, Maddie.He is survived by his loving wife Dee Jaye Kurta, son Todd Kurta of Columbus, OH, and his daughter Jade (Anthony) Kurta of New Paltz, NY. He leaves behind his Grandson Blake Venditti of New Paltz, NY.He is also survived by his brothers Frank Kurta of New Paltz, NY, and Wilfred (Teresa) Kurta of Modena, NY as well as several nieces and nephews.Calling hours will be held from 3:00pm-6:00pm Friday February 16th, 2024, at the Copeland-Hammerl Funeral Home located at 162 S. Putt Corners Road in New Paltz.

Obituary Preview: Edith M. Tompkins, 79, of Highland, died Saturday, February 10, 2024 at the Hudson Valley Hospice House in Hyde Park. Born in Dutchess Junction, she was the daughter of the late David & Catherine Lewis VailEdie enjoyed the company of her cousin Mike and Sue. Edie was a strong lovable woman who fought hard and loved her family and grandkids. She will always be in our hearts.Edith is survived by a daughter, Rita Ann Lopez of New Paltz, a stepdaughter, Donna Sprague of Kerhonkson, two grandchildren, Anita and Courtland, both of Poughkeepsie, six grandchildren, Leonard, Michael, Frankie, Courtland, Rita and Cashmiere. A cousin, Sue Mangarillo and her husband, Mike also survive.The family will receive friends at the Copeland-Hammerl Funeral Home, 162 South Putt Corners Rd, New Paltz.Interment will be held privately.Copeland-Hammerl Funeral Home is honored to assist the family with the arrangements.

Obituary Preview: Rosemary was born in Hanover Township Pennsylvania in the year 1930.Rosey, a name that she only allowed for use by her husband Joseph, was an adventuress. He will tell you about Rosemary's upbringing after which he will relate some of Rosemary's escapades, which are so varied, they read like the talking about phases of the moon. At the midpoint of Rosemary's 93d year Rosey began a new adventure, a grand journey, one whose path one may only ponder.Mom, Florence, was quite strict in monitoring Rosemary’s behavior and scolded Rosemary at times that she would depart with her sister Gianna to Wilks Barre’s surrounding coal mine slag heaps for bring home a few pieces of melted iron, which they sold to the traveling junk man.Dad, Tony, (Anthony) was an ornamental plasterer, an artisan in the mold of those who built the Pantheon in Rome. He emigrated the American Continent at age of 19 from his home in San Daniele located in the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region of North Italy when he broke free his brother from prison. His brother was suffering the consequences of committing a minor crime. They crossed the border into Austria and found their way to their new home.Anthony was one of the few young people in San Daniele who could read. This skill allowed him to be recruited by the Carabinieri, the military police. He guarded the King Victor Emanual III but gave up this prized position to save his brother.Tony and his brother began work in the building trades. He learned to decorate church interiors with formed plaster. Tony was independent. He ceased to work for contractors and went off on his own. He is remembered among other grand works for fashioning the 24 foot tall statue from clay and plaster, which was finally cast in aluminum, of Christ The King. It was designed by his friend Lawrence Russo, the architect and dominates the skyline of Wilkes Barre from the roof of King’s College. Lawrence drew and Tony modeled. Tony and Lawrence assiduously visited the saloons that the construction workers in Wilkes Barre frequented.At Tony’s funeral the attending Priest told the tale of the images of the Apostles, which adorned the church’s interior frieze. They were drawn by Lawrence and fabricated by Tony. Upon unveiling the viewers gasped since as the Apostle’s faces were undraped the audience clearly perceived that they were fashioned from the group of the local well-oiled workmen who navigated the bar scene.Rosemary’s family moved to nearby Wilkes Barre when she was 12. They lived on the banks of the Susquehanna River. Rosemary recalled the many times when she was evacuated from their home because of the periodic flooding of the River. Many years later Rosemary overcompensated for her fear of rising waters and implored her husband that they land which they would purchase to build their home that lay, high, near the peak of Marlborough Mountain.Rosemary sought more excitement than the provincial town, Wilkes Barre, offered. Her sister Gianna was a stay-at-home girl and later attended the local Marywood College (University) but Rosemary went off to Washington D.C. a land of excitement. In 1958 Rosemary was hired by the State Department though she never understood why. At the age of 18 she had no special skills. Rosemary was personally chosen by John Foster Dulles then Secretary of State for a position in the State Department. Many of Rosemary's friends understood that it was her good-looks rather than her debatable skills, which secured her appointment.Rosemary’s work was undefined and varied. She often traveled on her bicycle to the White House to deliver Ambassadorial papers and other documents, she embossed the great seal of the United States on important official papers and brought coffee to John, himself, and other government officials. An unverified story about Rosemary is that if she didn’t approve of an Ambassadorial appointment she discarded it in the trash. Rosemary wanted to move on. She hoped to be stationed in Paris. But the fates, those in charge, offered her a position in the Embassy at Kuala Lumpur. This was probably done to rid themselves of a problem which their boss, JFD, did not recognize. Not Paris, not ever Rome so Rosemary quit her job and traveled west.First to Salt Lake City, where she worked as a librarian, then California, a few cities west of the Rockies, on to Sausalito and finally to San Francisco where Rosemary waited tables in Italian restaurants.Joseph always accused Rosemary of being part of the Beat Generation, which she denied. The Beats are often are confused with Hippies. Not so! The Beats were a literary movement concerned with politics and literature and so was Rosemary.As proof of Rosemary’s involvement in the arts Joseph, upon visiting this San Francisco many years later to visit his wandering son, Alexander, he discovered a review of Rosemary’s theater activity in which she acted in a play with the Diane Feinstein who later became the Senator from California. Rosemary’s review was superb, Diane's not much so.Rosemary spent much of her time at the City Lights Bookstore that was the center of the Beat generation and her association with people like Mark di Suvero, an artist now represented at storm King Art Center, Lawrence Ferlinghetti, its owner and Alan Ginsburg.For Rosemary’s political career. Fifty years ago Rosemary lost a kidney, probably due to the whipping by a policeman’s nightstick during her participation in a political march.Next took the small amount of money that she saved from her employment as a librarian, and other varied work in the west and traveled by freighter to her father’s homeland, Italy. Rosemary worked at the United Nations Information Center in Rome where she met Wendy. A year later she encountered Wendy on a New York City Street.Wendy introduced Rosemary to Joseph. They have been together ever since. Joseph was intrigued with Rosemary during this first meeting because Rosemary was dancing on a dining table of the Puglia, a classic Italian restaurant, located in little Italy.When Joseph met Rosemary, she was living in a farmhouse, the last farmhouse in Manhattan. One entered through two wooden barn gated doors. Joseph, the innocent was thrown into a world of adventure by his encounter. When Joseph and Rosemary went for a day’s travel along came Rosemary’s friend Marion Tanner. Marion was the model for Edward Everett Tanner ‘Patrick Dennis’ Auntie Mame. Once they visited Fire Island and Marion enticed Joseph into breaking into a summer home so she could retrieve clothing that she left there. Joseph spent the evening in jail. Marion was one of many friends that Rosemary had that didn't belong to the mainstream city life. Rosemary's friends were all unusual. There was Leilani, an actress who was a puppeteer at the NY World's Fair. Leilani carried a revolver in her hand bag since she feared that she would be attacked in her Greenwich Village home. Then Priscilla. Priscilla embodied the qualities of a witch. One could not set their eyes upon her without thinking of Shakespeare's MacBeth.Life calmed. Rosemary gave birth to Joseph and her children, Jules and Alexander. From the beginning of their children's lives Rosemary guided them to Medicine, an occupation which she desired for herself. She succeeded first with Jules who worked with a researcher, Ralph Steinman at Rockefeller University then Alex. Ralph won the Nobel prize while Jules was there but lost his job because a day after the prize was awarded Ralph died and as is customary his lab shut down. Ralph was one of three who was awarded the prize posthumously that was against Nobel rules. It was not rescinded as when the Noble Committee discovered their time lapse the prize was already given. Jules went on to be an oncologist, Alex an emergency room doctor.Rosemary's family lived on the Greenwich Connecticut waterfront on Steamboat Road. Next the pair purchased a home in Port Chester, NY and later moved to Wappingers Falls, NY where Joseph opened a furniture store. New York. Rosemary made the decision to return to college. Rosemary returned to college after having a start of the College learning experience at Wilkes located in her hometown and while living in Poughkeepsie earned degree in Italian Literature from Vassar College. Next Rosemary went forward to social work school and worked for social work agencies and completed her career by joining Family Services in Poughkeepsie.In the year 1995 Joseph and Rosemary moved to Milton, NY where they built their home. They left 18 years later for 6 years moved to a wonderful retirement community, Woodland Pond in New Paltz. After which they moved back to their home in Milton. They were again returning to Woodland Pond when Rosemary passed while spending the last days of her life being wonderfully cared for in the Woodland Pond nursing facility.Rosemary was active in the community. She was the president of The New York State Society of Clinical Social Work for almost 10 years, a director of Poughkeepsie’s Community Family Development organization, the vice president of the Milton Public Library, taught Italian language at Woodland Pond and other community services too numerous to mention.Rosemary is survived by her husband Joseph, her sons Alexander and Jules, her grandchildren Emma, Peter, Oscar, Ivy and Caleb. Rosemary's younger sister Gianna married a Dane and moved to Denmark many years ago, She passed on 8 years ago, Gianna's daughter Ane Marie occasionally sends Rosemary a note on Facebook and Rosemary’s cousin Janet along with cousin Lucy, whom she sought and found using her interest in that great tool of Social Work, the Genogram.That’s it! All, which remains of Rosemary’s family.Travel lightly, Rosemary. All of us wish to hear stories of your latest adventure.

Obituary Preview: Pascal J. Frisina, 75, of New Paltz, died Sunday, February 4, 2024 at Vassar Brothers Medical Center.Born in Brooklyn, he was a son of the late Augustine & Pasqualina Leuzzi Frisina.After graduating from Xaverian High School in Brooklyn, Pat headed to SUNY New Paltz. He enjoyed his studies there, along with an active social life.He joined the Kappa Delta fraternity where he quickly gained the respect of his brothers. He enjoys the legacy of being one of Kappa's past presidents. He was a cherished friend to all and the friendships he made during those college years have lasted over 50 years.His major in education led him to a 6th grade classroom in Highland Middle School where he taught for 33 years. He loved teaching and he loved his students. He guided them well and honored their interests. "Mr. Frisina was my favorite teacher" is a very familiar refrain. He left an indelible mark as a teacher. He also gained the respect of his colleagues just as he had his fraternity brothers which, in kind, led to another presidency. He was the district's union president durning many difficult negotiations, always leading with a clam and steady demeanor.Pat met the love of his life, JoAnn, in college. They married young, built a house in New Paltz, and had three beautiful children. Family was the heartbeat of Pat's existence. His love, warmth and wisdom enriched the lives of his children and later those of his grandchildren. He was the G.O.A.T of grandfathers. A beloved "Pop", a real spoiler. He created cherished memories that will be forever etched into their hearts.Pat Frisina taught lessons to his students, his family members and his friends - to always be kind, always laugh, surround yourself with people you aspire to be like, be humble and always be willing to try something new.This remarkable man touched and enhanced so many lives, and he will live on forever in the hearts of those who loved him.Pascal is survived by a daughter, Kristin Frisina and her husband, Frank Boula of Pawling, two sons, David Frisina of New Paltz and Daniel Frisina and his wife, Shonda of Woodstock, a sister, Rose Felice Pellet of Smyrna, GA, seven grandchildren, Alyssa, Maya, Matthew, Liam, Rio, Benjamin and William. A niece, Cara and a nephew, Mark also survive.In addition to his parents, Pascal was predeceased by his wife JoAnn Timpa Frisina.The family will receive friends at the Copeland-Hammerl Funeral Home, 162 South Putt Corners Rd. on Thursday, February 8, 2024 from 4-7 PM.A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday, February 9th at 11:00 AM at St. Joseph Church.Interment will be privately held. Pat was a Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia survivor. At the time of his death he was in remission. If you would like to make a donation in memory of him - you can go to this link https://givenow.lls.org/give/342076/#!/donation/checkout our email is PopsTribe2424@gmail.comCopeland-Hammerl Funeral Home is honored to assist the family of Pascal with the arrangements.