Ray Funeral Service, Inc. Obituaries

About Ray Funeral Service, Inc.

Located at 59 Seaman Avenue, Castleton, NY, 12033, Ray Funeral Service, Inc. has been a trusted and compassionate funeral home serving the community for many years. With a commitment to providing exceptional care and support during difficult times, Ray Funeral Service, Inc. has established itself as a respected and reliable funeral home in the area.

A Legacy of Compassionate Care

At Ray Funeral Service, Inc., the staff understands that losing a loved one is one of life's most challenging experiences. That's why they are dedicated to providing personalized and compassionate care to each family they serve. From the initial consultation to the final farewell, the team at Ray Funeral Service, Inc. is committed to ensuring that every detail is taken care of with dignity and respect.

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Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Joan C. Knickerbocker - June 20, 1929 - April 11, 2024

Departed: 04/11/2024 (Castleton)

Obituary Preview: Castleton-on-Hudson- Joan C. Knickerbocker, 94, entered into eternal rest on April 11, 2024 at The Grand Rehabilitation and Nursing Home at Barnwell. "Ma," as she was affectional known by many was a lifelong resident of the Schodack Landing/Castleton area. As a young adult, she worked for several years at Fort Orange Paper Company where she met her future husband, Bill. The two were happily married for 67 years prior to his passing. She also worked at times in the school cafeteria in the Schodack Central School District. Joan was a loving homemaker, caring for her children and then her grandchildren. She had a great love and passion for all animals her entire life. Ma was an avid NASCAR fan and spent many Saturday nights at the Lebanon Valley Speedway. She also liked visiting Lake George and local county fairs, as well as her bus trips with the senior center to the various casinos.

Joan is predeceased by her loving husband, Bill Knickerbocker; her brother, Donald Zeigler; and her grandson, Michael Knickerbocker. She leaves behind three sons, Roger (Dale) Knickerbocker, Dennis Knickerbocker, and Lee (Lindsay) Knickerbocker. She is also survived by three grandchildren, Christine (Shawn) Bisner, Staci Knickerbocker, and Mark Knickerbocker, as well as six great-grandchildren, Kyle, Ryan, Gabriel, Kristian, Kaylynn, and Briana.

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Mary Lou Kulpa - May 20, 1942 - April 07, 2024

Departed: 04/07/2024 (Castleton)

Obituary Preview: Castleton-on-Hudson- Mary Lou (Gaylord) Kulpa, 81, of Castleton-on-Hudson passed away on Sunday, April 7, 2024, at St. Peter’s Hospital in Albany. Born in Glenfield, NY to the late Mary Louise (Sears) and Kenneth Gaylord, she was married to Theodore “Ted” A. Kulpa and lived most of her life in Castleton-on-Hudson. Mary Lou graduated from the Albany Medical Center School of Nursing and had a long career as a registered nurse. She worked for Resurrection Nursing Home and Central Nursing Service, during her over 40 years as a nurse. Mary Lou was very active in her church, Sacred Heart Church in Castleton-on-Hudson. She was a religious education teacher, eucharistic minister, and currently on the Mustard Seed Committee at Sacred Heart. She was also the Past-President of the Castleton Kiwanis Club for two years.

Mary Lou loved vacationing with her family. She loved the ocean and visiting Sandbridge Beach in Virginia, but as long there was water and her family at her side, she was happy. Mary Lou loved attending her grandchildren’s special achievements and sporting events and she was their biggest fan. She was mom to many and Nana to everyone.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her siblings, Kenneth Gaylord, Lois Brower, Betty Tiffany, Gene Gaylord, William Gaylord, and Richard Gaylord. In addition to her husband, she is survived by her children, Cheryl (Donald) Mannion, John (Lauralyn) Kulpa, Karen (Jerry) Redding, Kristen Lankenau, and Peter (Melissa) Kulpa; her grandchildren, Chelsea, Lindsay, John Paul, Evan, Kaelyn, Jared, Justin, Jadon, Cameron, Audrey, Amelia, and Avani; her siblings, Barbara Richards, Linda Zehr, and Donna Krokowski; as well as many nieces and nephews.

A Funeral Mass will be offered at Sacred Heart Church, 3 Catholic Way, Castleton-On-Hudson on Friday morning at 10:00 a.m. Relatives and friends are invited to call at the Castleton Funeral Home, 59 Seaman Ave. Castleton-On-Hudson on Thursday, April 11 from 4-7 p.m.

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Kevin J. Ackerman - January 16, 2002 - March 06, 2024

Departed: 03/06/2024 (Castleton)

Obituary Preview: Castleton- We are sad to announce the passing of our son Kevin Jordan Ackerman, who left us on March 6, 2024. Born on January 16, 2002 in Albany, NY, he was a devoted son, brother and friend whose kindhearted, gentle spirit surrounded all who were lucky enough to be in his company. He is survived by his loving parents Karen and Kevin and his dear sister Kate, whom he loved unconditionally. Kevin's affinity for his dogs was unparalleled, Samantha, Aaron and Toby were lavished with his love and affection. He was adored by his grandparents Donald Whitbeck, Nancy Johnson, Roberta Wenrick and Jill Ackerman. He was predeceased by his grandfather, Don Wenrick and his beloved aunt, Lynn Jerr. His favorite aunt, Joy Arrabito, never missed a chance to spend time with Kev and make him laugh. He is survived by his uncle David Whitbeck, aunt Jenn Whitbeck and cousin Tucker Whitbeck. Kev was surrounded by his lifelong friends Reese, Julia, Nick and Noah.

He was very well-read, his vocabulary was second-to-none and he regularly amazed his family with his diverse knowledge base. This love of learning was fostered by his favorite teachers, Mr. Finney, Mr. Austin, Mr. Frese and Mrs. Racz. Kev was blessed to not only have been taught by Sheila Golden but also to be coached by her in bowling. Her lasting impression is duly noted. He was studying pharmacy at University at Buffalo and one of the proudest moments of his life was when he received his white coat. His vacations were spent at Disney World with his family, swimming, snacking and finding hidden Mickeys. His favorite rides were Space Mountain, Expedition Everest, Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, Flight of Passage but definitely not Kali River Rapids. After many years of contemplation, on his last trip, he conquered Tower of Terror along with his terrified mom while holding her hand.

While Kevin is no longer physically with us, his spirit surrounds his family and comforts them. We were blessed to walk in his light for 22 years, we are grateful for every second he was with us and we look forward to the day when we will see him again.

Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Kevin's family on Friday, March 15, 2024, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m., at the Castleton Funeral Home 59 Seaman Ave. Castleton, NY 12033.

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Nancy Jean Wasson - January 22, 1930 - February 22, 2024

Departed: 02/22/2024 (Castleton)

Obituary Preview: Castleton- Nancy Jean (Burdick) Wasson, 94, of Castleton passed away peacefully at the Eddy Memorial Geriatric Center, in Troy, on February 22, 2024. Nancy was born in Albany to the late Edna (Osgood) and Raymond Burdick. She grew up in Albany and attended the NYS Teacher’s College, where she received her master’s degree in education. In 1958, she married John D. Wasson and shortly afterwards moved to Castleton where they would reside together for over 50 years. Nancy was a kindergarten teacher at Castleton Elementary School for many years. She was a longtime member of Emmanuel Reformed Church and enjoyed being a member of the choir there. Nancy was also a member of the Order of the Eastern Star. She was constantly reading and could often be found completing crafts or puzzles. Nancy also enjoyed cooking and was a talented cook. Her charitable donations helped many and she would never say no to someone in need.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband, John D. Wasson. She is survived by her daughter, Joy (Richard) Dalaba of Clifton Park, and her son, Glenn (Kim) Wasson of Virginia. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Aaron Dalaba, Sofia Wasson, Ellie Wasson, and Silas Wasson. A memorial service will be held on March 2, 2024, at 2:00 p.m., at Emmanuel Reformed Church 1150 Maple Hill Rd. Castleton-on-Hudson, NY 12033, with Rev. Dirk Gieser presiding. Nancy will be inurned in the columbarium at Emmanuel Reformed Church, next to her husband, following the memorial service. If you are unable to attend please join us via livestream here https://youtube.com/live/-rK2ifTCxoE

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Winifred M. Haupt - February 27, 1921 - February 17, 2024

Departed: 02/17/2024 (Castleton)

Obituary Preview: East Greenbush- Winifred M. Haupt, 102, of Stanhope Place, East Greenbush passed away on February 17, 2024 at Riverside Nursing Home in Castleton. Winifred was born in and lived in East Greenbush all her life, she was the daughter of the late Frederick R. Duesberg and Mable L. (Bopp) Duesberg.

She was a graduate of Castleton High School and Mildred Elley Business School. She worked at Montgomery Wards’ Publicity Department Office, the office of New York Telephone Co. and in 1962 for Drumm Veterinary Hospital, as a secretary and receptionist for 45 years.

Winifred was a lifetime member of the East Greenbush Reformed Church, and a member of the Couse Home Bureau, for many years. Winifred taught beginning and advanced classes in sewing, as well as classes in good health. She also played the violin in her high school orchestra and later with an orchestra in East Schodack.

She worked as a volunteer in 1960 for the Albany Stratton VA Hospital, in Albany. She was one of the three of the original members of the Tri-X Social Club, which was formed in 1944. She was a member of the EGVFW Post 7338 Auxiliary, since 1959, as well as past president of the auxiliary post and as Chaplain since 1966. Winifred was also a member of the Greenbush Camera Club and an enthusiastic photographer.

Winifred is predeceased by her husband, George; her two sisters, Mabel L. Witbeck and Marion L. Schoonbeck; and her daughter-in-law, Noreen.

She is survived by her two sons, Richard A. Haupt of Schodack Landing and James D. (Joann) Haupt of Niverville. She is also survived by her four grandchildren, Chloe, Jason, Jennifer, and Jessica, as well as her five great-grandchildren, Sophia, Skylar, Lucas, Brayden, and Makenzi.

A service of remembrance will take place on Thursday, February 29, 2024, at 6:00 p.m., at the Castleton Funeral Home, 59 Seaman Ave. Castleton, NY 12033. Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Winnie’s family prior to the service of remembrance, from 4:00-6:00 p.m., at the funeral home. Inurnment will take place on Friday, March 1, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at New Rural Cemetery, Third Ave. Ext Rensselaer, NY 12144.

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Ronald L. Whelpley Sr. - December 03, 1946 - February 06, 2024

Departed: 02/06/2024 (Castleton)

Obituary Preview: Cohoes- Ronald L. Whelpley Sr., 77, of Cohoes, formerly of Castleton, passed away on February 6, 2024, peacefully at his home with his daughter and friends at his side. He was born in Hudson on December 3, 1946, to the late Irene (Pratt) and Robert Whelpley.

Ronald is survived by his children, Ronald Whelpley Jr. and Teresa Whelpley; his sister, Irene Lechleiter; as well as several nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his first wife, Helen Patricelli; his second wife, Pam Romanchak; and his brothers, Bill Whelpley and Richard Whelpley.

A time to share remembrances will be held at 12:30 p.m. on Monday, February 12, 2024, at the Castleton Funeral Home, 59 Seaman Ave. Castleton, NY 12033. Inurnment will immediately follow the sharing of remembrances, at New Sacred Heart Cemetery, S. Old Post Rd., Castleton, NY 12033. Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Ronald’s family prior to the sharing of remembrances from 10:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m., at the funeral home.

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Michael Farrell - January 04, 1961 - February 06, 2024

Departed: 02/06/2024 (Castleton)

Obituary Preview: Michael “Mike” Farrell of Castleton, NY beloved husband, father, and grandfather passed away suddenly on February 6, 2024. Mike was born to the late William “Bill” Farrell & Barbara (Jackson) of Somerset, MA on January 4, 1961.

He is survived by his wife of three years, Elizabeth (Rathbun) of Castleton, NY, his daughter Melissa DiMotta and her husband Zachary DiMotta of Elmore, VT, Michael Farrell II and his wife Janet Farrell of Rehoboth, MA, his four grandchildren Charlie & Penelope DiMotta (Elmore, VT), Benjamin & Evelyn Farrell (Rehoboth, MA), his three sisters Patricia Therrian & her husband Ted of Somerset, Paula Drake of Somerset, Kerri Affonso and her husband Bill of East Wareham, and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Mike was predeceased by his brothers William F. Farrell Jr., Frank Farrell, brother-in-law Robert Drake and father-in-law Norman Rathbun Sr.

Mike was a talented electrician by trade who for the past several years worked at the NYS Canal Corporation. He thoroughly enjoyed working on the locks by the water. In his free time Mike could often be found cruising country roads on a Harley Davidson or on a boat at Castleton Boat Club where he was a member for the past 12 years. He loved spending time with his grandchildren and visiting family and friends up and down the East Coast. He was a loyal friend, a valued neighbor, and always ready to offer a helping hand during difficult times. His hearty laugh and love for life endeared him to most who met him.

The family would like to thank you for the outpouring of love and encourage everyone to go outdoors and do something they love in honor of Mike and his adventurous spirit.

In accordance with Mike’s wishes a celebration of life will be planned in both New York and Massachusetts. Details of the gatherings will be forthcoming in the warmer months.

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Funeral Services Offered

Ray Funeral Service, Inc. offers a wide range of funeral services designed to meet the unique needs of each family. These services include traditional funerals, cremations, memorial services, and graveside ceremonies. The funeral home also provides pre-planning services, allowing individuals to make arrangements for their own funeral in advance.

Personalized Funeral Options

The team at Ray Funeral Service, Inc. believes that every life is unique and deserves to be celebrated in a way that reflects the individual's personality and spirit. To achieve this, they offer personalized funeral options such as customized caskets, special music selections, and themed ceremonies. Families can also choose from a variety of burial options, including traditional ground burial and mausoleum entombment.

Cremation Services

For families who prefer cremation, Ray Funeral Service, Inc. offers a range of options to suit their needs. These include direct cremation, cremation with a memorial service, and cremation with a traditional funeral service. The funeral home also provides urn selection and scattering services for those who wish to honor their loved one in a special way.

Pre-Planning and Advanced Planning

Rather than leaving their loved ones to make difficult decisions during a time of grief, many individuals are choosing to pre-plan their funeral arrangements. Ray Funeral Service, Inc. offers advanced planning services, which allow individuals to make their wishes known and take control of their final arrangements. This not only provides peace of mind but also helps to alleviate the financial burden on family members.

Community Involvement

Ray Funeral Service, Inc. is deeply committed to the Castleton community and surrounding areas. The funeral home participates in local events and supports various charities and organizations that benefit the community. By doing so, they demonstrate their dedication to serving families beyond the funeral service itself.

Contact Information

If you're looking for a trusted and compassionate funeral home in Castleton, NY, consider reaching out to Ray Funeral Service, Inc. You can contact them by phone at [insert phone number] or visit their website at [insert website URL]. Their experienced staff is always available to answer questions and provide guidance during difficult times.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an obituary?

An obituary is a written notice that announces the death of a person, typically including their name, age, date of birth and death, and a brief biography. It may also include information about their surviving family members, funeral arrangements, and any charitable donations in lieu of flowers.

Why are obituaries important?

Obituaries serve as a way to inform friends, family, and community members of a person's passing, allowing them to pay their respects and offer condolences. They also provide a sense of closure and help to celebrate the life of the deceased.

Who typically writes an obituary?

The task of writing an obituary usually falls to the family members or close friends of the deceased. In some cases, a funeral home or crematorium may assist with writing the obituary.

What information should be included in an obituary?

A typical obituary includes the person's full name, age, date of birth and death, place of residence, occupation, hobbies, achievements, and surviving family members. It may also include details about the funeral service, burial location, and any charitable donations.

How long should an obituary be?

The length of an obituary can vary depending on the publication and the family's wishes. Typically, it ranges from a few sentences to several paragraphs.

Can I include photos in an obituary?

Yes, many publications allow you to include one or more photos with the obituary. This can be a great way to personalize the tribute and make it more meaningful.

What is the difference between an obituary and a death notice?

A death notice is a brief announcement of a person's passing, usually including only the basic facts such as name, age, and date of death. An obituary is a longer, more detailed tribute that celebrates the person's life.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper or online platform?

The submission process varies depending on the publication or platform. You can usually find guidelines on their website or by contacting their customer service department directly.

How much does it cost to publish an obituary?

The cost of publishing an obituary varies widely depending on the publication, length of the obituary, and any additional features such as photos or special formatting.

Can I write my own obituary?

Yes, some people choose to write their own obituary in advance as a way to have control over how they are remembered. This can be a therapeutic exercise and can also help to alleviate the burden on loved ones during a difficult time.

What is an online obituary?

An online obituary is a digital version of a traditional print obituary. It allows friends and family to share condolences, memories, and photos with each other from anywhere in the world.

How long do online obituaries remain available?

The duration that an online obituary remains available varies depending on the platform or website. Some may keep them available indefinitely, while others may remove them after a certain period of time.

Can I make corrections to an already published obituary?

If you need to make corrections to an already published obituary, contact the publication or platform where it was published as soon as possible. They will guide you through their correction process.

What is a memorial website?

A memorial website is a dedicated online space where friends and family can share memories, photos, and condolences for a loved one who has passed away. It can remain active for years to come, serving as a lasting tribute.

How do I create a memorial website?

You can create a memorial website using various online platforms that offer this service. These platforms often provide templates and tools to make it easy to create a beautiful and meaningful tribute.

What are some tips for writing a good obituary?

To write a good obituary, focus on capturing the personality and spirit of the deceased. Be honest and authentic in your writing, and don't be afraid to add personal anecdotes and stories.

Can I include humor in an obituary?

Yes, humor can be an effective way to celebrate someone's life and personality in an obituary. Just be sure to use good taste and avoid offending anyone.

How do I handle sensitive information in an obituary?

If you're unsure about including sensitive information such as cause of death or personal struggles, consider consulting with family members or close friends before publishing the obituary.

Can I include quotes or lyrics in an obituary?

Yes, quotes or lyrics that were meaningful to the deceased can be a great way to add depth and personality to an obituary.

What is the purpose of an obituary in modern times?

In today's digital age, obituaries continue to serve as an important way to notify friends and family of a person's passing, while also providing a sense of community and connection during a difficult time.

How do I find old obituaries?

You can search for old obituaries through online archives, libraries, or genealogy websites. Many newspapers also maintain archives of past issues that can be searched digitally or in-person.

Can I republish an old obituary online?

If you want to republish an old obituary online, be sure to check with the original publication for permission first. You may also need to obtain permission from any copyright holders or family members involved.

What is the significance of publishing an obituary in multiple languages?

Publishing an obituary in multiple languages can be especially important for families with international connections or those who speak different languages at home. It helps ensure that everyone who knew the deceased can access the information and pay their respects.

Can I create a video obituary?

Yes, video obituaries are becoming increasingly popular as a way to celebrate someone's life through images, music, and storytelling. You can create one yourself or work with a professional videographer.

How do I share an online obituary on social media?

Most online platforms provide easy sharing options for social media sites like Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn. You can also copy and paste the link into your own posts or messages.

What are some alternative ways to announce someone's passing besides an obituary?

Besides traditional print or online obituaries, you can announce someone's passing through social media posts, email notifications, phone calls, or even personalized cards or letters sent to close friends and family.