In Memoriam

This page is dedicated to the lives and legacies of CCHS '64 alums and faculty who have passed on. To notify us of faculty or classmates who have departed, please e-mail us at admin2@clarkstownhs64.com.  
 

Faculty Whose Memories Rock On!
Memories of faculty who guided us and shaped our lives will never be forgotten.  They were our inspiration, teaching us in class, guiding us as counselors, or coaching our athletic endeavors.  When they pass, a part of our lives passes with them.  This first section of our In Memoriam page is dedicated to those members of faculty who helped mold us into the best adults we could be.

In Memory Of...

Ed McGrath

Edward J. McGrath 94, of Harwich Port, MA formerly a long time resident of New City, NY.  Ed is survived by his wife of 69 years, Rueith (McKenney), as well as James and Betsy McGrath of Plymouth, Brad and Cindy McGrath of Walpole, and Sheila McGrath of Quincy.  He was predeceased by son Jeffrey McGrath.  Originally from Easthampton, Massachusetts, Ed was predeceased by siblings Sister Margaret James McGrath, James McGrath, C. Bradley McGrath, Betty Walsh, and Mary Woods all of Western Massachusetts.  Ed is survived by seven grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

Ed loved the University of Massachusetts.  He attended UMass in 1941 on a basketball scholarship, but left to enroll in the Navy after Pearl Harbor.  He served all four years of the war on a destroyer, the USS Clark, primarily assigned to convoy runs in the North Atlantic.  After the war, Ed returned to UMass where he was captain of the basketball and baseball teams, and an All American soccer goalie.  He was a member of the UMass Hall of Fame.  After graduation, Ed started a long career in public education as a teacher, counselor, and basketball coach, primarily at Clarkstown High School in New City, NY.  Ed's teams won 10 league championships in 20 years, including winning 56 consecutive games.  He was a member of the Rockland County Hall of Fame.  Ed moved to Cape Cod in 1980 and both taught and worked as a counselor at Cape Cod Tech in Harwich.  He loved working in schools and was known for his easy going, kind, and approachable manner.

 

Visitation will be Monday, February 18 from 2-5 pm at Morris, O'Connor, and Blute Funeral Home, 678 Main Street, Harwich, MA 02645 followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at Holy Trinity Church in Harwich on Tuesday, February 19th at 10 am.  Burial will be private. 

 

Classmates Whose Memories Rock On!
Memories are loving things, they last the longest day, they can never be lent, never be spent, and never be taken away. While over time our friends may change and some may drift away, our memories of them will never die and never fade away. Celebrate our friends and classmates who have gone before us...light a candle commemorating their lives...whisper a prayer to heaven.

 

If you would like to post your thoughts and memories about any of our alums who have passed, please click here then scroll down to "Remembering Classmates Who've Passed On".
 
Note: The classmates below have been referred to us by other members of the student body and are current through MAY 12, 2022.  If you know of someone else's passing, please let us know so that we can honor their memory.

If a classmate has been posted in error, please accept our sincerest apologies and e-mail us at admin2@clarkstownhs64.com as soon as possible so we can take immediate corrective action.  Thank you for your understanding and your assistance.
 

In Memory Of...
 

 

 

Dennis Beadle

 

Vicki Bettleheim McDaniel

https://ripostafh.com/tribute/details/15525/Vicki-McDaniel/obituary.html

Vicki McDaniel of Montville, Maine, passed away on April 17th, 2020, after suffering a brain hemorrhage.

 

Born December 7, 1946, in New York City to Ralph and Connie Bettelheim, Vicki grew up in New City, NY where she continues to have lifelong friends. She attended college in San Francisco, California where she met her future husband Greg. On their way back from a trip to Nova Scotia, Canada, Greg and Vicki met Leonard Lookner who encouraged them to spend the winter in an old cape on a dead-end road in Montville. All the locals said, “Why the hell do you want to live up there?” They ended up purchasing the house on 92 acres and have remained there for over 50 years.

 

Vicki and Greg were married in New York in September of 1973. Their children, Shana and Sam, were born shortly thereafter. She waitressed at City Boat, the Belfast Café and Darby’s before becoming a key member of the Belfast arts scene.  At Gallery 69, Vicki learned how to frame art.  She founded The Belfast Framer in 1990. Within the frame shop, Vicki started Betts Gallery, identifying local artists and curating shows that represented painters’ significance locally and as part of current art trends. Vicki also became an important part of the Belfast business community, working to transition Belfast from an industrial city to the cultural destination it has become today.

 

Vicki curated deep friendships and loved to bring people together. She always found an excuse to host gatherings, celebrating birthdays, sports, and her garden's bounty.  Her generosity and kindness extended beyond her friends to their children (and grandchildren) and she always remembered details of her friends' lives. Vicki and her girlfriends took long walks along the river and cross country skied all over Maine to stay fit and connected.

 

Vicki is survived by her husband of 47 years, Greg; her daughter Shana McDaniel and son-in-law Anthony; her son Sam McDaniel, daughter-in-law Eva, and grandson Sam; her sister Judith Bettelheim, and numerous cousins throughout the world. 

 

Vicki will be remembered as an avid gardener, an enthusiastic member of the Montville community, and for her love of meaningful conversation and deep devotion to family and friends.  In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Hospice Volunteers of Waldo County (HVOWC) PO Box 772  Belfast, ME 04915 or the Georges River Land Trust at http://www.georgesriver.org/donate/.

 

 

 

Bill Beutel

 

Veazie - Lt. Col William Michael Beutel, 77, died after a long battle with Parkinson's at the Maine Veterans Home in Bangor, Maine, on Nov. 7, 2023. He was born May 13, 1946, in Munich, Germany, the son of William S. and Martha (Kammermayer) Beutel.

 

William graduated from RISD, class of 1969, as an architect. Following graduation, he served with the U.S. Air Force for 4 years, entering service in August 1969, with basic training in Texas. He left the Air Force for a brief period working in Bangor as an architect, and then re-joined the Air National Guard in Bangor at Dow AFB in April 1983. At Dow AFB he served as Chief of Staff for 5 years and then as Base Commander Civil Engineering for 9 years, retiring March 31, 2000.

 

After retirement he worked in Wiesbaden, Germany, as a contractor for the U.S. Army Chief of Housing and then Program Manager for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers designing schools. He moved back to Veazie, Maine, after the unexpected death of his second wife, Beth Reynolds Beutel.

 

William was a brilliant man with a big heart, and received numerous medals and awards over his lifetime while serving in the Air Force and as a private civilian. He will be sadly missed by everyone.

 

Surviving William are his dad, William S. Beutel of Glen Carbon, IL; his sister, Bonnie Beutel and Norman Becht of Santa Fe, NM; his daughter, Melanie Messina and her husband, Joseph Messina, of Dexter; son, William A. Beutel of Veazie; granddaughter, Victoria Leighton of Dexter; stepson, Ryan Mecham and his wife, Melissa; grandchildren, Sophia and Isabella of Rocky Hill, CT,;stepson, Justin Mecham of Waltham, MA; and stepdaughter, Andrea Mecham of Readfield.

 

Special recognition to William's companion, Clarice Page, his sweetie and love, who shared her life with all of us and selflessly and adoringly cared for William until the end.

 

William was predeceased by his second wife, Beth; and his mother, Martha.

 

Relatives and friends are welcome to celebrate his life from 4 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, November 21, 2023, at Jeff's Catering, 15 Eventcenter Way, Brewer, Maine, to have the opportunity to share stories and toast to William's life and achievements. His ashes will be given back to the earth in the summer in a private family ocean side gathering. Those who wish to remember William in a special way may make gifts in his memory to the Bangor Humane Society, 693 Mt. Hope Avenue, Bangor, ME 04401 or to an animal shelter of your choice. A special thank you to the nurses and staff at the Maine Veterans' Home for the excellent and personal care given to William, especially in his final days.

 

I want to fly like an Eagle to the Sea, fly like an Eagle, Let the Spirt set me Free!

 

 

Charles Bletsch III 

Kathleen Bristol                      

Kathleen Bristol, of New City, lost her battle with multiple medical problems on October 17, 2007 at the age of 60. She was a retired elementary school teacher from the South Orangetown School District, where she had been a teacher for many years.

 

Ms. Bristol is survived by her sister Patricia Hisz, her nieces and nephews, and a large group of devoted friends whom she had adopted as family. A Memorial Mass will be held at St. Augustine's in New City on November 17, 2007 at 11:30 am. A gathering of friends and family will follow the service.

Dennis Bruck                          

Dennis G. Bruck of West Nyack died suddenly on February 7, 2001. He was 54. Born on October 31, 1946 in Mt. Vernon, NY to Edward and Rita Bruck. Dennis lived most of his life in West Nyack, graduating from the Clarkstown High School. He served as a Marine during the Vietnam War. For the past 26 years he was employed by the Clarkstown Highway Department. He enjoyed playing golf and enjoyed bowling in several leagues throughout the country.

 

He is survived by his parents, his wife Kathryn MacDonnell Bruck, two daughters Jacqueline Bruck Murray and Michelle Bruck. A brother Edward, four sisters Lynn, Sharon, Anita and Beth. A graveside service will be held at 1PM on Monday at the Rockland County Veteran‘s Cemetery Brick Church Road, New Hempstead, NY. Visiting hours will be held at the Hannemann Funeral Home, Inc. from 2-4 and 6-8PM on Friday. Donations to Juvenile Diabetes Foundation, 560 Sylvan Avenue, Englewood Cliffs, NJ 07632.HANNEMANN FUNERAL HOME, INC. 88 South Broadway Nyack, NY (845) 358-0573.

 

Gregory Burke

Ken Conners

Ken died peacefully at his winter home in Port Richey, Florida on February 1, 2020 at the age of 73.

Kenneth was born on June 30, 1946 in Bronx, New York to Dorothy (Stauffer) and Raymond Conners.  He was a graduate of Clarkstown High School in New City, New York.  He became a member of the IATSE Local 52 in 1967 and was drafted into the army during the Viet Nam War.  He received the bronze medal and Purple Heart at the age of 23 after losing his leg fighting for our country.

Kenneth returned to work at Local 52 for a total of 40 years.  He was respected and loved by everyone who had the pleasure and privilege of working with him.  Kenny was one of the hardest working people in the motion picture industry and will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Kenneth is survived by his wife of 46 years Dorothy (Lang) Conners, their two daughters and husbands Kelly and David Infantino and Brian and Tracy McClean.  He is also survived by one brother, Robert Conners and wife Bonnie, one sister Dorothy Wellborn as well as three grandchildren Emma and Kyle Infantino and Liam McClean whom he loved dearly.  He is also survived by his nieces and nephews.

A full military burial service will be held at Washington Crossing National Cemetary in Newtown, Pennsylvania (Bucks County) on March 20, 2020 at 1:30 PM.
All are welcome to offer their final goodbyes to this amazing man.  Donations can be made in his honor to the HPH Hospice at 6807 Rowan Rd., New Port Richey, FL 34653 or the Wounded Warriors Project.

Pat Damiani

 

Marion Dann

Sandra Daniels

 

Laura Fishberg

Ithaca: Laura Lee Chacona, age 66, of Ithaca, NY, passed away peacefully on December 18th, 2012 in Lunenburg, MA surrounded by her family after a heroic battle with kidney cancer.

 

Laura was born in 1946 in the borough of the Bronx in New York City to parents, the late Max and Sylvia Fishberg. She received a B.A. in special education from SUNY Cortland and Masters degrees from City College and SUNY Cortland. For over 25 years Laura served the Ithaca City School District as a special education administrator and support teacher. She retired in June 2012 from the Lehman Alternative Community School, where she was beloved by students and faculty alike. 

 

Laura enjoyed running, knitting, cooking, classical music, visual art, zumba, singing with the Mostly Motown group, walking her dogs, motorcycle rides, and just spending time with friends. She was regarded as quite the "fashionista" by all who knew her, and had a creative gift for artfully assembling outfits with an effortless elegance that ranged in style from the classic Ithaca flax chic to funky rocker. Laura had a very special relationship with her twin sister Barbara's grandchildren, and when she visited them in Massachusetts, they only wanted to spend time with her. Laura held a special affinity for Cape Cod and looked forward to the family vacation there every summer. 

 

Laura was the widow of the late George S. Chacona and is survived by her son Nickolas Chacona his wife Shanan, twin sister Barbara Hoos & her husband Gunther, younger sister Mary Ann Kock, sister-in-law Maria Schirmer, nieces Tanya Crowley, Vanessa Andris, Venetia Kanellos, nephews Keyan Hoos, Marcus Chacona, Mark, Peter, & Leon Zaharis, and Michael Opolicky close friends Kathy Dusinberre-Carvel, Joseph Hartnett Hughes, Adelaide Gomer, and Rolfe Sokol, and her dogs Chewey & Hoover.

A Memorial Service will be held in her honor at a later date at the Lehman Alternative Community School in Ithaca, NY. In Lieu of flowers please send all charitable donations to the Lehman Alternative Community School (111 Chestnut Street, Ithaca, NY 14850), or the Cancer Resource Center of the Fingerlakes (612 W State St Ithaca, NY 14850).
 

Published in Ithaca Journal on December 24, 2012

 

David Forsberg
 

C. David Forsberg, age 70, of Waupaca, WI passed away suddenly on Sunday, December 11, 2016 at his residence. Dave was born in Rochester, New York on April 4, 1946, the son of the late Charles and Genevieve (Donaldson) Forsberg. Dave was a highly decorated 3-sport athlete at Clarkstown High School in New York and was inducted into their Sports Hall of Fame. While attending UW-Madison on a football scholarship (following in the footsteps of his father & grandfather) he met Laura Seton. They were married on September 13, 1969 in Dodgeville, WI. Dave was a sociology major, and also served a few years in VISTA and spent his entire career as a social worker, the majority in child protective services. He is an active member of Trinity Lutheran Church, serving for many years on the church council and recently on the personal committee as chairman.

 

In retirement, Dave loved traveling, especially to visit his family, watching his beloved Packers and playing golf.

 

 
Dave is survived by his children: Jennifer (Bill Pendleton) Forsberg, Palmer, Alaska and James (Adriane Fang) Forsberg, Silver Spring, Maryland; his grandchildren: Laura Rui Forsberg, Christi, Jan & Bobbye Pendleton; his siblings: Dean Forsberg, Waupaca, WI; Dale (Nancy) Forsberg, Congers, NY; Darrel Forsberg, Bowie, TX; Lynn Forsberg, Royersford, PA and Lahna Bland-Forsberg, Spruce Pine, NC and his very special friend: Sandy Akey, Waupaca, WI. Dave is also survived by many other loving family members and friends around the country. He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife, Laura.

 

 
The Memorial Service will be on Monday, December 19 at 3 PM at Trinity Lutheran Church, Waupaca with Reverend Andy Behrendt, officiating. Burial will be at a later date in the Eastside Cemetery, Dodgeville, WI next to his wife, Laura. Visitation will be held on Monday afternoon from 1 PM to 3 PM at the church. In lieu of flowers memorials are great appreciated to a project Dave was very involved with, the Trinity Building Fund. Holly Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. 

 

Nancy Gaetjens

Nancy Gaetjens Shiroma -- March 28, 2015. Age 69, of Falls Church, Virginia. Born and raised in Brooklyn Heights, New York. Wife of Maurice Shiroma, Maj, USA Ret.; beloved mother of David, Kirsten, and Alex; aunt to many loved Gaetjens and Shiroma nieces and nephews. Nancy is survived by a brother, Arthur "Gerry" Gaetjens. Daughter of the late Arthur and Anne Gaetjens. State University of New York at Cortland '68. Master's in Education, Regent University '00. Devoted her time to teaching for Department of Defense Schools and Fairfax County Public Schools until retirement in 2009. Passed away peacefully at Capital Care in Aldie, Virginia on March 28, 2015. Graveside service and interment will be at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, May 21, 2015 at Arlington National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made to Capital Care tinyurl.com/capcare
 

Published in The Washington Post on May 17, 2015

David Gardineer

David (“Dave”) Louis Gardineer of Walden, New York, passed away at the age of 71 on Sunday September 30, 2018.

Dave was born on October 3rd, 1946, to Everett and Ruth Gardineer, in Nyack, New York. Dave attended Clarkstown North High School and received an Associate’s Degree from Rockland Community College in 1967. Dave was a proud veteran of the United States Navy and served in the Vietnam War. Dave co-owned and operated a heating and cooling business until retiring in 2011. On July 16, 2006, Dave married the love of his life, Gina Hayes.

 

Dave had many hobbies and interests. He was a voracious reader and enjoyed fishing, woodworking, camping and his BMW motorcycle. He was a licensed pilot and scuba diver. Most of all, Dave loved traveling with Gina.

 

Dave was a loving husband, brother, stepfather, uncle and grandfather. He was always there for those who needed him and best exemplified what it is to be a kind, caring and thoughtful person. He is survived by his wife, Gina; his stepchildren, Robert (Paulina) Hayes, Lance Hayes, Katelyn (Josh) Aprea; and Cassie (Jimmie) Marsh; his grandchildren (who affectionately referred to him as “Papa Dave”) Alaina, Brianne; Lincoln, Sienna and Jackson; his sisters Christine (Peter) McGroddy, and her children Kelly (David Press) McGroddy, Michael (Mollie) McGroddy and Chase McGroddy, and Jacquelin McCree, and her children Reid (Jami) McCree and Grant (Michelle) McCree; and his extended family, including his many nieces, nephews and cousins. Dave was predeceased by his father, Everett, and his mother, Ruth.

 

A memorial service will be held Wednesday, October 10th, 2018 at Scarr Funeral Home in Suffern, New York. Visitors are invited to come between 5 p.m. and 8 p.m. A funeral service will be held Thursday, October 11th, 2018 at 11 a.m. at Ascension Cemetery in Airmont, New York. Memorial contributions in memory of Dave may be made to the Vietnam Veterans of America on their website at https://vva.org/donate/.  To send flowers to the family of David L. Gardineer, please visit our Heartfelt Sympathies Store.

 

Alfred Garrido                         

Alfred Gary Garrido was born on November 1, 1944 in the Bronx, son of the late Alfred and America Garrido. After a courageous battle with cancer Al passed away peacefully on July 8, 2011 at Montgomery Nursing Home with his son and daughter by his side.

 

 

Al was born in the Bronx and attended St. Nicholas of Tolentine Elementary School. At the age of 12 he moved with his family to Pomona. Al graduated from Clarkstown High School in 1964 and attended Rockland Community College. He moved in 1973 to Middletown, NY where he resided for 38 years. Al was an electrician and part of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers.

 

 

Al is survived by his two devoted children Jeremiah and Elizabeth, their loving spouses Jennifer and Daniel, his sister Cindy, and treasured grandaughter Cameron. Al touched the lives of many people with his smile and generosity, and maintained his trademark sense of humor all the way to the end. He found the greatest satisfaction out of the most simple pleasures - a visit with his children, chatting over some diet pepsi with friends, or sharing a meal. He will forever be remembered.

 

 

Friends and family are invited to attend a special memorial service on Monday July 11, 2011 at 5pm taking place at the house of worship he held most dear to his heart, the Unitarian Universalist Church located at 6 Orchard Street Middletown, NY 10940. The family requests all donations be sent to the dedicated people who gave such wonderful care for Al in his time of need at Montgomery Nursing Home Attn: North Wing P.O. Box 158 Albany Post Road Montgomery, NY 12549 (845) 457-5033 and Hospice of Orange& Sullivan Counties, Inc 800 Stony Brook Court Newburgh, NY 12550 1-800-924-0157.

Donna Gibson

          

Erich Goerditz

James Hammer

 

 

Jesse Hampson

Jesse C. Hampson, age 67, a resident of Plainfield, IL since 1981, formerly of New City, NY, died Friday, August 16, 2013 at Rush Copley Medical Center, Aurora, IL. He was born May 6, 1946 in Kent County, Rhode Island.

 

 

Beloved husband of Carol (nee Pfeifer) Hampson, whom he married April 2, 1987, loving father of Paulette Ollie of West Chicago, IL, Stephen Konieczka of Boulder, CO and Deborah (Jason) Westcott of Plainfield, IL, adored grandfather of Jason and Allison; Dillan and Payton, devoted son of the late Harold and Inez Hampson, dear brother of nineteen, fond uncle of many.

 

 

Jesse grew up in New City, NY, was a 1964 graduate of Clarkstown High School and served two years in the U.S. Army stationed in Germany. He was employed for 42 years with Rockwell International (now Goss Graphics), retiring in 2009. Jesse enjoyed playing golf and traveling.

 

 

Funeral Information

Memorial Visitation Saturday, October 5, 1:30-3:30 P.M. at Overman-Jones Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 15219 S. Joliet Rd., Plainfield, IL.  A celebration of Jesse’s life will follow Saturday, 3:30 P.M. in the funeral home.

 

 

Future Inurnment: Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery, Elwood, IL

 

 

Donations Information

In lieu of flowers, memorials to: American Lung Association in Illinois - Greater Chicago, 55 West Wacker Drive, Suite #800, Chicago, IL, 60601, (312) 781-1100, www.lungil.org

 

 

Donations Link:

American Lung Association in Illinois - Greater Chicago 

Florists and Heart Felt Gifts

Anne-Marie Heskestad

Sandra Hoffman

Brian Kaleita

Thomas Kay

Mary Madden

Eavens, Mary Elizabeth, (Marybeth) 71, of West Haverstraw, entered the Heavenly Kingdom on November 19, 2017. Mary was born on March 23, 1946 in Brooklyn, New York to the late Timothy and Mary(Curry) Madden.

Mary was a graduate from the Clarkstown Central School District. She raised her family in West Haverstraw, N.Y. where she worked for many years as a school bus driver. Upon leaving the bus company, she went to work for the North Rockland School District.

Mary is predeceased by her husband Frank and her son Edward J. Katt as well as her parents. Mary is survived by her daughter Kristine Thomas, her children Peter and Deanna (Robert Bottomley), Daughter Margaret(Louis) Paride their children John, Elizabeth, James, Dominick. Her son Bryan Eavens (Sandra) their children Diandra, Trey, Jayden, Isabella. Son Timothy and daughter Hannah. Step daughter Brenda Eavens(Stan) and children Leah and Andrew and 3 great grandchildren. Mary is also survived by her Uncle John Downing of New City his daughters Patricia Downing and Beth Francis, as well as other cousins, nieces and nephews. But, the family can not forget her love for her Four Fur Babies: Bella, Molly, Reese, and Tiny.

Mary loved to attend the Meals on Wheels senior program of West Haverstraw with her many friends she had there. She enjoyed her trips to Atlantic City, and Bingo.

Visitation will be Friday November 24, 2017 2-4 & 7-9 at Michael J. Higgins, 73 North Liberty Drive.Stony Point, N.Y. A Mass of Christian Burial is at 10:00 am Saturday November 25,2017 at St. Peters Roman Catholic Church on Broadway in Haverstraw. Burial will follow at St. Peters Cemetery on Route 9w, Haverstraw, N.Y

Mary's family request in lieu of Flowers a donation be made to Meals on Wheels, North Rockland Senior Center. 130 Samsondale Ave. West Haverstraw, N.Y. 10993

Julie Marshall (Hudson)

September 30th, 1947 to Leon and Beatrice Marshall. She was the oldest of five siblings, the first grandchild of her generation and a pioneer in the arts for her family. She graduated from Clarkstown HigJulienne Marshall Hudson, a singer with a voice described by the Chicago Tribune as being “as sensual as a room full of orchids”, passed away on January 22nd, 2022 after bravely fighting a rare and aggressive cancer.

 

Julie was born in Mineola, NY on h School, and then from Barnard College as part of the famous Class of ’68, with a degree in English literature and history. She studied for an MA in Acting and Theater craft at Emerson College before embarking on a theater career.

She debuted off-Broadway in Woyzeck and then in Iphigenia at the New York Public Theater and London’s Young Vic where she worked with Pam Pentony, Patti Lupone and Nell Carter among others. She performed with Irene Papas in Medea at Circle in the Square. She was in the original cast of Bubbling Brown Sugar and numerous other Broadway and off-Broadway shows. Julie also appeared on national and regional television, featuring on NBC, CBS and ABC and the shows One Life to Live and All My Children.

Julie took her musical cabaret to clubs in London, New York City, Charleston and Chicago including Green Street, Carolines, the BBC Club and The Bulls. She performed for 3 successive years to sold out houses at the Canterbury Festival in England. She continued to perform at various clubs in Rockland and New York until the Covid shutdown. Prior to her illness, she was planning and rehearsing to record an album with her pianist and collaborator, Albert Ahlf.

She was a DJ on Skyline Jazz radio. And in the 1980’s she formed a new wave band, Identical Strangers, composing original songs with her co-writer Joe Lo Bianco. They performed extensively around New York and Long Island, and played at the iconic CBGBs.

In 1990 she met her husband Glenn and moved to England. There she restarted her singing and acting career, performing in clubs with the David Rees Williams Trio and getting cast as Fantine in the Manchester Company of Les Miserable. She gave birth to her son Jonathan in 1992, and raised him with the same bold enthusiasm with which she pursued her artistic talents. After moving back to the States in 1995, she became a beloved voice teacher at the Rockland Conservatory of Music and nurtured generations of voices up until this past September.

Julie was an accomplished writer in many genres. She wrote and researched for magazines such as Conde Nast Traveler, Interview, and Glamour. She was a stringer for the Journal News writing many "What’s in a Name“ pieces. Together with Lisa Rinehart she wrote Tango Ballad, a musical about Kurt Weill and Lotte Lenya which was workshopped at the Actors Studio and performed by Blair Brown and Beverley D’Angelo. She was commissioned to write an article for Planning Magazine called "Whatever Happened to Ramapo?" that was chosen as one of the 25 "outstanding articles that have been published in the past 25 years” of the magazine’s history. Her most recent work-in-progress was a musical about Major John Andre.

Julie was beautiful and multitalented. But more than that she had a warmth and empathy that made her easy to talk to and confide in. Many who knew her found their life improved from her love and encouragement. Julie generated a constant stream of brilliant and hilarious ideas that left all around her in stitches.

Julie is mourned by many but particularly her husband Glenn Hudson, son Jonathan Hudson, sister Toby Schack, brother Mitchell Marshall, sister-in-law Liz Marshall, brother-in-law Michael Schack, nieces Becca and Zoe Schack and Andrea Marshall, and nephews Ben Marshall and Chris and James Hudson.

John McCabe

Dennis McCarthy

Dennis E. McCarthy, a longtime Bardonia resident, passed away at home with his loving family by his side after fighting a long illness. Dennis was born in Astoria, NY on July 26, 1946 to John and Eleanore Smith McCarthy.  Dennis graduated from Clarkstown Central High School (now Clarkstown High School North) in 1964.  Dennis proudly served his country as a lance corporal with the United States Marine Corps and was awarded the Purple Heart for injuries received in battle during the Vietnam War.  Mr. McCarthy was a network manager with the telephone company for over 35 years and was a member of the Telephone Pioneers of America. 

 

Dennis is curvived by his wife, Christine and his two sons, Mathew and Ryan all of Bardonia. The family will receive friends on Monday from 2-4 and 7-9 at the Higgins Funeral Home, 321 S. Main St., New City, NY.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered on Tuesday at 11:00 AM at St. Francis Church in West Nyack, NY.  Dennis will be buried with full military honors at Arlington National Cemetary in Arlington, VA.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Mr. McCarthy's memory to the West Nyack Little League, PO Box 193, West Nyack, NY 10994.

 

Jacqueline Mishkel

MISHKEL, Jacqueline "Jackie" Mary, 65, of Chesterfield, went to be with the Lord on Sunday, August 19, 2012. She is survived by her mother, Genevieve Mishkel; sons and daughter-in-law, Raymond McGlynn and Christian McGlynn and his wife, Rachel; sisters, Jill Mishkel and Michele Eddy; sons, Bill Mishkel and his wife, Denise, and Mark Mishkel and his wife, Sissy; and nieces and nephews. Jackie was a retired math teacher who taught in New Kent and Chesterfield counties. She was a beloved mother, daughter and sister. The family will receive friends 5 to 6 p.m. Thursday, August 23, 2012 at Morrissett Funeral & Cremation Service, 6500 Iron Bridge Road (Rte. 10). Her memorial service of remembrance will follow at 6 p.m. at the funeral home. Interment is private.

Mary Munzing

Jim Nelson

James A. Nelson III, 64, formerly of New City, died 08-11-2011. If you have a complete obituary for Jim, please send it to us for posting at admin1@clarkstownhs64.com. Thank you.

Tom Olsen

Tom Olsen died in Irvine, California, in May, 1983, at the age of 37.  

Mary Anne Podgradski

 

 

Nancy Robinson

Nancy Jeanne Robinson Brecher, 77, of West Nyack, NY, passed away on July 18, 2024. Born on October 10, 1946, to Clyde and Josephine Robinson, Nancy was the beloved youngest of their children. She graduated from Clarkstown North High School and pursued her passion for nursing, earning multiple advanced degrees from Vermont College, The University of Miami, Adelphi University, and Pace University.

 

Nancy's life was enriched by meeting the love of her life, Mark Brecher, at The University of Miami. Together, they embarked on many adventures, living in various parts of the country, including Colorado Springs, before returning to West Nyack in 1973 to be closer to her parents.

 

Nancy and Mark were blessed with four wonderful children: Dax, Dustin, Dane, and Dakotah. Her family continued to grow with the addition of three loving daughters-in-law, six beautiful grandchildren, and numerous cherished pets, all of whom were the light of her life.

 

Nancy's dedication to her country was evident in her distinguished military career. Nancy achieved the rank of Colonel in the Army Nurse Corps, a testament to her commitment and service. During her tour of duty, she was activated for Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm, where she was in charge of wounded soldiers at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Washington, D.C.

 

Simultaneously with her military career, Nancy impacted lives through her civilian career at Mount Sinai Hospital and New York-Presbyterian. She also shared her wealth of knowledge as an educator at Pace University. She retired from Keller Army Community Hospital of West Point as a Family Nurse Practitioner after 21 years of service.

 

In her retirement, Nancy's adventurous spirit remained strong. She traveled the world, spent cherished moments with her children and grandchildren, indulged in reading in her cozy nook, and enjoyed long walks to her favorite bench. Her legacy is marked by numerous awards and commendations, including the Superior Civilian Service Award and Bronze Star, reflecting her unwavering dedication to her profession and community.

 

Nancy's friends and family will forever remember her cheerful and adventurous nature, quick wit, and ability to make everyone laugh with her one-liners. Her spirit and love will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew her.

 

Following the Memorial Visitation on Thursday, Please join us at 1840 Tavern, 1 Strawtown Road, West Nyack,NY at 7pm for a Celebration of Life of Nancy.

 

In lieu of flowers, the Brecher family kindly requests donations to the Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund, supporting the United States military community.

 

 

Steve Rodewald

Ralph Sherry

Ralph Harmon Sherry, 65 of Henrietta Blvd., passed away Monday morning August 8, 2011 in Asheville, N.C. following a lengthy illness.

 

Ralph was born on June 24, 1946 in New London, Conn. He was the son of Rear Admiral Harmon Sherry and Mildred Saunders Sherry. Ralph served in the U.S. Navy Submarine Service as a petty officer (sonar operations) during the Vietnam War era.

 

An accomplished musician, Ralph played bass guitar in many Capitol District bands including The Motions, Fox, and The Cosmic Messengers. In 1973 Ralph co-founded, with his friend Terry Lester, "This is a Recording," a new sound studio in Schenectady, N.Y. This studio evolved, in 1975, into Cathedral Sound Studio. Cathedral Sound became the premier recording studio in the Capitol District. As an audio engineer, Ralph worked with every major department in New York state government, all the major advertising agencies, and on political campaigns (including that of Congressman Sam Stratton). He was a precise and intuitive audio engineer, highly sought-after and respected by countless musicians. His clients included Dizzie Gillespie, Benny Goodman, The Byrds, The Empire State Youth Orchestra and the Newport Jazz Festival. In 1991, Ralph recorded "Hearts of Fire," the work of Amsterdam composer Maria Riccio Bryce. As they worked together on the project, Ralph became a dear friend and, eventually, her brother-in-law. A decade later, Ralph recorded "The Amsterdam Oratorio," generously donating his time and expertise to masterfully preserve Maria's music for future generations.

 

Ralph was a kind, intelligent man who loved reading and the study of science and philosophy. He was a great admirer of the work of Joseph Campbell. He was an avid gardener, cook and astronomer. Throughout his life, Ralph owned many dogs. He valued their companionship and mourned the loss of each.

 

Ralph is survived by his wife, Constance Riccio of Amsterdam; his four children, Kendall Sherry of Charleston, S.C., Zachary Sherry (Beth) of El Cerrito, Calif., and Caleb and John Sherry, both of Amsterdam. He is also survived by three brothers, Robert, John and Arthur Sherry; and by three grandsons, Benjamin, Nathan and Jack Harmon Sherry. He leaves five sisters-in-law; Flo and Jessica Sherry, Maria Riccio Bryce, Michela Riccio and Sophie (Kevin) Kozak; many nieces and nephews; dear friends, Darlene Downing, Otto Suwara, Greg Barrier, John Allen and Robert von Hasseln.

 

Ralph's wife Constance would like to thank Dr. John Ruiz and Community Hospice of Amsterdam for the tender and compassionate care shown to Ralph in the last year of his life. Calling hours are Sunday August 21 from 4-6 p.m. at the Betz, Rossi & Bellinger Family Funeral Home, 171 Guy Park Avenue. A memorial service will take place at 5 p.m. Contributions may be made in Ralph's memory to The Amsterdam Marching Rams in care of the funeral home. Please sign the family's online guestbook at brbsfuneral.com.

Michael Trubow

Frank Tucek

Eddie Van Houten

Edwin R Van Houten passed away peacefully at the age of 74 on Sunday March 7th, 2021 at Nyack Hospital in Nyack, NY. He was a lifelong resident of Rockland County. Edwin served in the U.S. Army and Reserves from 1966-1972. He worked in construction for various companies in Rockland for many years and later had his own handyman business for a few years.

 

He is predeceased by his parents Edwin and Emily Van Houten and his brother James “Jimmy" Van Houten. He is survived by his wife of 45 years Paula; his children Robert, Grace, Alexander and Paul; Son-in-law Michael and Daughter-in-laws Arietti and Lillie; grandchildren Michael, Tiago, Christopher and Sakiko; siblings Nancy, Carol and Gary; and many nieces and nephews.

 

A viewing will be held Wednesday evening from 4-7pm at Joseph W. Sorce Funeral in Home in West Nyack, NY. A private burial will be held Thursday morning at 10:30am at Frederick W. Loescher Veterans Memorial Cemetery in New Hempstead, NY.

Jim Wilson

 

 

 

Stephanie Lisa Winkelmann

Stephanie Lisa Winkelmann, 64, Orlando, FL, died Feb. 18, 2010.  Dove Funeral Home, Orlando, FL.