Florence I. Ponkos (1925 – 2020)
HUDSON—Florence I. Ponkos, 94, of Hudson passed away Sunday, April 26, 2020 at Columbia Memorial Hospital.
Born in Randolph, NJ, November 1, 1925, she was the daughter of the late Harry and Pauline Ivankow.
Mrs. Ponkos and her husband, Rudy owned and operated Rudy’s TV in Hudson. She was an extremely loving and devoted wife, mother and grandmother and made the world’s best pies, cakes and cookies. Her holiday dinners were always spectacular. She loved fashion and had an eye for style and was a wonderful seamstress. She was a member of Holy Trinity Parish/ St. Mary’s Church in Hudson.
Mrs. Ponkos is survived by: her loving husband of 69 years, Rudolph Ponkos; her daughter, Barbara Ponkos-Merola and husband John; daughter-in-law, Laura Ponkos; grandchildren, Robert and Sarah Ponkos; as well as, many loving nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her sons, David B. Ponkos and Robert G. Ponkos; brothers, Steve Ivankow, James Ivanhoe, Eugene Ivankoe, Roy Ivankoe and her sisters, Catherine Dragon and Olga Brooks.
Calling hours for family and friends will be Friday, May 1, 2020 from 9:30 to 11 a.m. at the Sacco Funeral Home, 700 Town Hall Drive, Greenport, where building occupancy will be limited to 10 persons inside at a time. Burial will follow at 11:30 a.m. at Cedar Park Cemetery with committal prayers offered. A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be announced after restrictions are lifted.
Donations in lieu of flowers may be made to the Holy Trinity Parish, P.O. Box 323, Hudson 12534. To leave online condolences visit www.saccofuneralhome.com.
Maureen A. Revene (1977 – 2020)
HUDSON—Maureen A. Revene, 42, of Hudson, a lifelong Columbia County resident, passed away peacefully April 16, 2020.
She was born October 3, 1977 in Hudson, the daughter of John Revene, Jr., and Kathryn Sikora-Revene.
She was a graduate of Hudson High School. She worked as an operations manager for Container Machinery Corporation.
Ms. Revene is survived by: her mother, Kathryn Sikora-Revene; her two children, Victoria E. Revene and Joshua Jakob Revene-Racine; her brother, John Revene, III; many nieces, aunts, cousins and many many friends. She was predeceased by her father, John Revene, Jr.
She will be remembered for her sense of family, her witty humor, her sassiness. Most of all, she will be remembered for the way her presence was able to reach everyone. She knew how to make anyone laugh, smile and feel loved.
Graveside services were held Friday, April 24, 2020 in Cedar Park Cemetery in Hudson. Once the pandemic subsides, the family will celebrate Ms. Revene’s life at a later date. Arrangements are with the Bates & Anderson – Redmond & Keeler Funeral Home, 110 Green Street, Hudson.
Visit www.batesanderson.com to leave condolences.
Shirley M. Mottoshiski (1928 – 2020)
PHILMONT—Shirley Mae Mottoshiski, 91, of Hudson passed away April 18, 2020, peacefully at Pine Haven Nursing Home in Philmont.
She was born to the late Martin and Elizabeth (Stevens) Mottoshiski, May, 27, 1928 in Hudson.
Ms. Mottoshiski is survived by: two children, Richard Gauthier of Cario, and Susan Robertson of Ghent; eight grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her son, Rollin Gauthier in January.
Ms. Mottoshiski was a proud caregiver for the elderly for more than 40 years. She was immensely proud of her family, and leaves behind nothing but beautiful memories. She was known best for her quick-witted sense of humor, her amazing laugh and her giving heart. She will be truly missed by many.
Burial services were held Thursday, April 23, 2020 at Cedar Park Cemetery in Hudson. The family gives a heartfelt thank you to all of the staff on West Wing at Pine Haven Nursing Home. Arrangements are with the Bates & Anderson – Redmond & Keeler Funeral Home, 110 Green Street, Hudson.
Visit www.batesanderson.com to leave condolences.
Paul W. Vandenburgh (1935 – 2020)
STOCKPORT—Paul W. Vandenburgh, 84, of Stockport passed away Tuesday April 21, 2020.
Born June 5, 1935 in Hudson, he was the son of Fred and Myrtle (Heap) Vandenburgh.
He was a construction worker with the Laborers Union Local 190 of Albany. He was a huge collector of anything and everything, who loved flea markets, yard sales and auctions. He loved riding around the county with his sister, Vi, just looking for the next best bargain. He loved parades, and could always be seen riding along in the “infamous Jeep Willy” alongside his pal, Vince. Mr. Vandenburgh was a lifelong Columbia County resident, and member of the Stockport Fire Company.
Left to cherish his memory are: his daughters, Bonnie and Chris; grandchildren, Thomas and Jack; sister, Viola Williams; and brother-in-law, Jerry Jennings, along with many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his sons, Paul “Winky” Vandenburgh and Jon Vandenburgh, and his siblings, Sylvester, Ralph, Margaret, Marie and Audrey.
Memorial services will be announced at a future date. Contributions in Mr. Vandenburgh’s memory may be made to the Stockport Fire Company. Arrangements are with the Bates & Anderson – Redmond & Keeler Funeral Home, 110 Green Street, Hudson. Visit www.batesanderson.com to leave condolences.
Marion Schunk (1927 – 2020)
VALATIE—Marion Schunk, 92, of Stottville passed away peacefully April 22, 2020 at the Grand at Barnwell.
She was born May 30, 1927 in Hudson, the daughter of Irving and Marion (Kilmer) Rouse.
She married the late George A. Schunk and together they raised four loving children. Mrs. Schunk was an avid quilter and seamstress. She was a member of the 60 plus club.
She is survived by: her four children, Carolyn Wheeler, Kathleen Schunk, Gregory Schunk and Michael Schunk; her four grandchildren, Mark and Brian Schunk, Wendy Rowe and Chris Whitcomb; her five great-grandchildren, Hannah, Brodie, Taylor, Simon and Logan; several nieces, nephews and cousins.
Funeral services will be held at the convenience of the family. Arrangements are with the Bates & Anderson – Redmond & Keeler Funeral Home, 110 Green Street, Hudson. Visit www.batesanderson.com to leave condolences.
Angelo L. Markessinis (1922 – 2020)
ELIZAVILLE—Angelo “Larry” Markessinis, 97, of Elizaville passed away Thursday, April 23, 2020.
Born October 27, 1922 in Hudson, he was the son of Angel and Helen (Vassilou) Markessinis.
In 1936, just before entering his freshman year at Hudson High School, his father, with a need to conquer some health issues, decided to bring his family to Greece. “Larry” planned on finishing high school in Greece, returning to Hudson, and pursuing further education for a career in medicine.
When World War II started, all plans changed. Germany and Italy had declared war on Greece, and in December 1941, when Germany declared war on the United States, Mr. Markessinis and his family were arrested as enemy allies, and spent three years as prisoners. With British forces gaining control, the British Army headquarters in Athens, knew of Mr. Markessinis’ fluency in English and Greek, which enabled him to be a combat interpreter. Local Draft Board 23 in Hudson suggested to British HQ in Athens, that Mr. Markessinis’ skills would best serve the U.S. Army. With U.S. troops more than a thousand miles away, he was repatriated and he and his family were sent back to the United States on a neutral Swedish ship in October 1945.
He was inducted into the U.S. Army two months later, and was honorably discharged in 1947. Upon discharge, he attended Albany Business College, and joined his parents’ business New York Confectionary. Mr. Markessinis joined Local 1249 IBEW and worked as a powerline foreman for more than 23 years. After retiring, Mr. Markessinis was superintendent of Cedar Park Cemetery for 20 years. His commitment to the community included more than 70 years of service to H.W. Rogers Hose Fire Company, where he served as lieutenant, captain and chief. He also loved stamp collecting and fly fishing. He was a member of Stony Clove Rod and Gun Club. He leaves to cherish his memory: his daughter, Dona (Larry) Saulpaugh; son, Michael (Sandra) Markessinis; grandchildren, Reginald (AnneMarie) Osterhoudt, Danielle and Nicole Markessinis and Christina (Tadd) Benoit; great-grandchildren, Zachery, Benjamin and Angelia Osterhoudt, Maximus Hall and Garrett Cozza; several nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his wife, Shirley (Hamm) Markessinis; sister, Angela Wurster and brother, Basil Markessinis. A graveside service at Cedar Park Cemetery will be held Tuesday, April 28, 2020 at 11 a.m. Memorial contributions are encouraged to be made to H.W. Rogers Hose Company, P.O. Box 482, Hudson. Arrangements are with the Bates & Anderson – Redmond & Keeler Funeral Home, 110 Green Street, Hudson. Visit www.batesanderson.com to leave condolences.
Mary M. Super (1952 – 2020)
GREENPORT—Mary “Mitzie” Super, 68, of Greenport passed away in the comfort of her home Friday, April 24, 2020.
Born January 12, 1952 in Mellenville, she was the daughter of Donald and Catherine (Nelson) Moore.
“Mitzie,” as she was affectionately known, held two careers. She was a sales clerk for 41 years at CVS Pharmacy, while also working as bookkeeper for Doctors Kempler, Chiminelli, and Callahan at Hudson Cosmetic Dentistry for 20 years. Mrs. Super was a breeder and exhibitor of cats. She specialized in two breeds, American Shorthair Silver Classic Tabbys, and Chartreux. She gained International Recognition in showing them. She was a member of the Hudson Valley Cat Club, and also loved gardening, reading and listening to music.
Mrs. Super is survived by: her husband, Stephen Super; brother- and sister-in-law, Michael and MaryBeth Super; nephews and nieces, Thomas (Erin), and Tate (Alice) Super, and dear friend, Jeannie Bumbolow. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her sister, Barby Moore.
According to her wishes, funeral services will be private. Arrangements are with the Bates & Anderson – Redmond & Keeler Funeral Home, 110 Green Street, Hudson. Visit www.batesanderson.com to leave condolences.
Pamela S. Edwards (1947 – 2020)
EAST GREENBUSH—Pamela S. (Snyder) Edwards of East Greenbush passed away at home Thursday, April 23, 2020 at the age of 72.
She was born in Chatham, October 5, 1947 to the late Harold H. Snyder formerly of Hudson and Kathryn M. (Belcher) Snyder of Chatham. She was a graduate of Chatham High School, Class of ’65. She was retired from the Chatham School District and enjoyed spending time caring for her two youngest grandchildren. “Pam” remained very active with helping to plan the CHS Class of ’65 reunions over the years.
She is survived by: her husband, John D. Edwards, formerly of Granville; daughters, Theresa K. (Edwards) Boniello (John) and granddaughter, Grace of Larchmont, Natalie M. (Edwards) Gecewicz (Justin), granddaughter, Addison and grandson, Owen of West Sand Lake; son, First Class Petty Officer Christopher A. Edwards and granddaughter, Abigail of Gulfport, MS; sister, Joan (Snyder) Ackerman (Curtis) and many dear nieces and nephews.
Memorials in Mrs. Edwards’ name may be made to the American Heart Association and/or American Cancer Society.
Arrangements are with the French, Gifford, Preiter & Blasl Funeral Home, 25 Railroad Avenue, Chatham. Condolences may be conveyed at frenchblasl.com.
David A. Brenenstuhl (1949 – 2020)
HILLSDALE—Sunday, April 19, David Brenenstuhl, longtime resident of Hillsdale and regular reader of the obituaries first, passed away from complications of the coronavirus.
Born October 2, 1949 to Thomas and Margert Brenenstuhl, he was one of five sons, four having served in the military.
Feeling he chose best, Mr. Brenenstuhl served in the Navy. He was very proud of his time with the Navy and would often look to encourage others (especially grandsons, John and Theo) to enlist or head to Annapolis. He traveled the world with the Navy on the U.S.S. Reeves during and after the Vietnam War. During his time in the service, he gained skills as an electrician, served as an entertainment coordinator, and acquired the ability to ask to for a beer and the restroom in countless languages. This was the perfect prerequisite to his career as chef and owner of the Hillsdale House.
Using funds from a GI Bill, Mr. Brenenstuhl attended the Culinary Institute of America at Hyde Park while running his business with wife, Deborah, helping to raise his two children, Christina and Jason, and also serving in the Navy Reserves. He might have developed his affinity for naps during this time. A spot on the hammock with the paper was a favorite of his for a “catnap”; claiming with pride that 15 minutes was all he needed to work through the rest of the night.
Taking the Hillsdale House from bar to restaurant was a labor of love him. He had an uncompromising dedication to quality, loved developing a seasonal menu, and working with local farmers. He was a collector of unusual and craft beers to serve before it was trendy and a collector of friends from far and wide. He thought of staff and customers as family. He knew everyone’s drink and favorite food. “You felt cared for in his presence because you were.”
He was a man of quick wit and a great sense of humor. He loved chatting with friends and helping others. Other loves… heavily starched and pressed shirts, straight creases in his pants, a good game of Hearts with friends, and mowing the lawn. Between lunch and dinner prep, he could be found mowing the lawn on his Snapper. He loved keeping the lawn tamed while also getting some sun. In fact, he put in a pool so he could clean and maintain it; a job he loved as a teenager at Kaydeross Park in Saratoga Springs.
Mr. Brenenstuhl had dreams of traveling the world again and sampling each country’s local cuisines. There wasn’t a food he wouldn’t try until Crohn’s Disease robbed him of this passion. As he grew older and his health declined he had to stop his work at the restaurant. He continued to love his “catnaps” with the cuddle of his cat, Henri. He became “Papa” to his grandsons. He raised ducks and chickens (naming each and every one of them). And, he continued to love history, to watch the news, Jeopardy, old Westerns and Italian cooking with Lidia Bastianich.
Mr. Brenenstuhl could always be counted on for a donation to a local charity, a good meal, and a helping hand if needed. To honor his memory, lift a glass and toast this man that we sorely miss, eat a good meal with fresh ingredients, and consider a donation to a local charity or the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation.
Arrangements are with the Peck and Peck Funeral Home, 8063 Route 22, Copake. Express condolences at www.peckandpeck.net.
Thomas C. Barlow (1968 – 2020)
SHARON, CT—Thomas “Tommy” C. Barlow, 51, of Copake passed away Wednesday, April 22, 2020 at Sharon Hospital after a sudden illness.
He was born July 25, 1968, in Sharon, Connecticut, the son of Thomas and Wava (Begor) Barlow and spent his early life growing up on his family’s farm in South Amenia. He graduated from Webutuck High School in 1986. After graduating, he moved to Peru, NY, where he continued farm work and attended college at SUNY Plattsburgh. He graduated with his business degree and went on to do mechanical work for numerous businesses before starting his own business TB Roadcall in 1997.
On March 8, 2003, he married the love of his life, Lea Ann Hay. In addition to gaining two great stepsons, they went on to have two wonderful children. Mr. Barlow was very proud of his family, especially his kids, and loved attending the fair every year when they were showing their cows for 4H. He will always be remembered for his unique personality and willingness to help anyone in need. He was known to work from sun-up to sun-down, never stopping until the job was done.
In addition to his parents and wife, he is survived by: his children, Lee Hay Shepard, David Shepard, Jr., (his girlfriend Alex Braidt), Hannah (her boyfriend Killian Waldorf) and William; grandson, Brantley Shepard; mother-in-law, Rita Loucks; brother, Patrick; sisters, Lisa Humbert, Heather and Amanda and his beloved uncle, Jesse and many other brothers-and sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews and cousins.
He was predeceased by his maternal and paternal grandparents; aunts, Sandy Barlow and Marylou Farnhom.
A celebration of life for family and friends will be planned at a later date.
In lieu of flowers consider a donation to the Thomas C. Barlow GoFundMe page set up to help the family with expenses.
The family thanks everyone for their support during this difficult time.
Arrangements are with the Peck and Peck Funeral Home, 8063 Route 22, Copake. Express condolences at www.peckandpeck.net.
Timothy J. Melino, Jr. (1984 – 2020)
HUNTER—Timothy James Melino, Jr., 35, of Ghent died Saturday, April 25, 2020 in Hunter.
Born August 1, 1984 in Hudson, he was the son of Timothy James, Sr., and Nirell M. (Hall) Melino. He was a graduate of Chatham High School and SUNY Albany where he earned his master’s in atmospheric science, he was a data scientist with UL and Meso in Albany and Troy. He was loved by many. “We will always carry his memory in our hearts.”
In addition to his parents, Mr. Melino will be greatly missed by his fiancée Natasha Burger; his daughter, Alivia Melino; his unborn son, Timothy James Melino, III; also brothers, Bradley Melino and his fiancée (Amanda Race); sister, Jessica Melino and her fiancé (Walter Novack) and his nephews, Jacob Melino and Kolten Novack.
Calling hours for family and friends will be Wednesday, April 29 from 10 a.m. to noon at the Sacco Funeral Home, 700 Town Hall Drive, Greenport, where building occupancy will be limited to 10 persons at a time. Burial with prayers graveside will follow in Cedar Park Cemetery. A fund has been set up to benefit his children, donations can be mailed to The National Bank of Coxsackie, 3-7 Reed Street, Coxsackie 12051
To leave online condolences visit www.saccofuneralhome.com
