Our Obituaries

Lee C. Space age 78 of Huguenot, NY passed away at her home on Friday, November 30, 2018. She was born on April 22, 1940 in Middletown, NY and is the daughter of the late Watson and Hope Lawrence Couch. Lee worked as a Direct Care Aide at Letchworth Village in Thiells, NY. She was a member of the Neversink Valley Museum of Cuddebackville, NY and the Port Jervis Free Library in Port Jervis, NY. She was predeceased by her husband Clifford L. Space. Lee is survived by: two sons: James Van Horn and wife Sandy of Huguenot, NY, Clinton Van Horn and wife Charlotte of Sparrowbush, NY; two daughters: Jamie Swingle and husband Jerry of Sparrowbush, NY, Dorothy Van Horn of Port Jervis, NY; one step-son: Russell Space and wife Doreen of Huguenot, NY; two sisters: Nancy Kliokis of Shohola, PA, Robin Zavacky and husband Mike of Penn Argyl, PA; one brother: Douglas Couch of Middletown, NY; several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. Lee was predeceased by her son Thomas “Shiney” Van Horn. Memorial services will take place privately at the convenience of the family. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Orange and Sullivan Counties, 800 Stony Brook Ct., Newburgh, NY 12550 or the Port Jervis Free Library, 138 Pike St., Port Jervis, NY 12771 .Arrangements are by the Knight-Auchmoody Funeral Home, 154 E. Main St., Port Jervis, NY 12771. For information, directions, or to send a condolence note to the family please visit www.knight-auchmoody.com

Ruth G. Brush age 92 of Middletown, NY passed away November 26, 2018 at Park Manor, Middletown, NY. She was born in Newburgh, New York on September 27, 1926 the daughter of A. Cecil and Lila Jones Goodyear. Ruth married Jesse F. Brush who pre-deceased her. She retired as a clerk for Orange & Rockland Utilities in Port Jervis. She was a member of the Otisville-Mt. Hope Senior Citizens and the River Valley Chapter #33, O.E.S.. Ruth is survived by her son Robert G. Brush and his wife Colleen of Middletown, her beloved grandchildren; Thomas, Meghan, Michael, Jim and Patrick, her great granddaughter Ava, several nieces and nephews. Graveside services will be held 2 PM Thursday, November 29, at Pine Grove Cemetery, Matamoras, Pennsylvania. Rev. Nancy Vonderhorst will officiate. The Brush family would like to extend a special thank you to Park Manor for their kindness and special care given to my Mom. Arrangements are by the Knight-Auchmoody Funeral Home, 154 E. Main St., Port Jervis, NY. For information, directions or to send a condolence note to the family visit knight-auchmoody.com.

Elizabeth H. Brady age 69 of Port Jervis, NY passed away at her home on November 22, 2018. She was born on October 20, 1949 in Oswego, NY, the daughter of the late William and Elizabeth Varcoe. Elizabeth worked as a nurse at Belle Reve Nursing Home in Milford, PA. She is survived by her husband Edward Brady of 50 years marriage: two daughters: Anna Featherman and husband Charles of Port Jervis, and Jean Durcan and husband Brian of Port Jervis; one son: William Cline and wife Ann of Port Jervis; daughter in law: Leeann Predmore three sisters: Linda Odendahl of Cuddebackville, NY, Bonnie Brady of Walden, NY, and Ella Dennis of Ormond Beach, Fl; two brothers: James Wallace of Jacksonville, FL and Timothy Long, Sr. of Jacksonville, FL.; fourteen grandchildren and thirteen great grandchildren. She was predeceased by her son Frank Biehl and her two brothers Michael Long and Robert Wallace. Visitation was held on Thursday November 29, 2018 from 11-12pm at the Knight-Auchmoody Funeral Home, 154 E. Main St., Port Jervis, NY 12771. Funeral services followed at 11am with Pastor Erik Hossann officiating. Cremation took place privately at the convenience of the family. Arrangements are by the Knight-Auchmoody Funeral Home, 154 E. Main St., Port Jervis, NY 12771. For information, directions, or to send a condolence note to the family please visit www.knight-auchmoody.com

James R. Harrison age 34 of Sparrowbush, NY passed away November 3, 2018 in Middletown,NY. He was born on December 6, 1983 in Hempstead, New York . James worked as a cosmetic shredder for Kolmar Labs, Inc. in Port Jervis. He is survived by his parents Monty and Penny Nicholas of Cuddebackville, NY, his daughters; Jasmine, Evelynn, Kiana, Laurynn Harrison and his son James Harrison II, his sister Mary Nicholas of Forestburg, NY, his paternal grandmother Barbara Nicholas of Wurtsboro, NY, three nephews, one niece, several cousins, aunts and uncles. James was pre-deceased by his brother Billy Harrison. Memorial services were held 2 PM Sunday, November 25, at the Huguenot Fire House, Huguenot, NY. Memorial contributions may be made in James's memory to the Huguenot Fire House, 431 Route 209, Huguenot, NY 12746. Arrangements are by the Knight-Auchmoody Funeral Home, 154 E. Main Street, Port Jervis, NY. For information or to send a condolence note to the family visit knight-auchmoody.com.

Margery H. Tonkin age 71 of Westfall Twp, Pennsylvania passed away November 21, 2018 in Port Jervis, NY. She was born on April 13, 1947 in Middletown, NY the daughter of the late Irving Hulst and Dorothea Burrows Hulst. Marge was the retired owner of Tri-State Theatre and Drive-In in Matamoras. She also owned and operated the Tri-State Flea Market and at one time owned and operated the Flo-Jean Restaurant in Port Jervis with her late husband Gregg. Marge loved movies, watching her grandkids play sports, decorating, and being with her family. She was a faithful member of St. Joseph's RC Church and a member of the Altar and Rosary Society. Marge was a member of the Westfall Township Planning Commission. She married Gregg Tonkin on September 30, 1967 who pre-deceased her. Marge is survived by her son Raymond Tonkin, Pike County District Attorney, and his wife Michelle of Hawley, her two daughters, Disa D. Tonkin and her husband Martin of Matamoras, Corinne C. Tonkin of Matamoras, her beloved grandchildren; Zatoria Brown, Garrett and Grant Tonkin, her brother Donald Hulst and his wife Anna of Idaho, her brothers-in-law Gary Tonkin and his wife Barbara, Glenn Tonkin and his wife Alice, Garth Tonkin and his wife Marie, and several nieces and nephews. Visitation will be held 3-6 PM Tuesday November 27th at the Knight-Auchmoody Funeral Home, 154 E. Main St., Port Jervis, NY. Prayers will be offered 3:30 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held 10 AM Wednesday, November 28 at St. Joseph’s R.C. Church, Matamoras, Pennsylvania. Rev. Joseph Manarchuck will be the celebrant. Interment will be private. Memorial contributions may be made to the Westfall Fire Dept, , PO Box 154, Matamoras, PA 18336. Arrangements are by the Knight-Auchmoody Funeral Home, 154 E. Main St., Port Jervis, NY. For information, directions or to send a condolence note to the family visit knight-auchmoody.com.

Jennifer Banach Minihane age 38 of Hyde Park, NY and formerly of Matamoras, Pennsylvania passed away November 19, 2018 in Hyde Park, NY. She was born on June 11, 1980 in Newton, New Jersey the daughter of Joseph and Teresa Baird Banach. Jenn graduated from Broome County Community College and continued her education at Marist College in Hyde Park earning her BA. Jenn was one of the recipients of only 400 people to receive the New York State Chancellor’s Award. She worked as a Billing Specialist for E River Neurology in Poughkeepsie, NY. Jenn married David Minihane who survives at home. She is also survived by her parents Joseph and Teresa Banach of Matamoras, her daughters, Caity, Jade, Julia and her son David, Jr., her brothers; Joseph Banach and his wife Ashley, Justin Banach and his wife Sierra and her sister Jayme Banach, her paternal grandparents Joseph and Diane Banach of Matamoras, several nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins. She was pre-deceased by her maternal grandparents Charles and Anna Baird. Jennifer was a devoted and loving mother to her four beautiful children. She was an intelligent and vibrant woman who was known for her love of running and adventures. She was cared and loved deeply by her family and many friends. The local programs she was involved with were Girls Hyde Park soccer coach travel team, Family Services Family of the Year Committee, past Hyde Park Volunteer firefighter, competed in half marathons, marathons, duathons, triathlons, Spartan races, tough mudder, over 100’s of races, coordinator of the program Mighty Milers, member of the local book club, member of the Mid-Hudson Road Runners Club and was a previous member of the Bikeway Race team. Her generosity and love towards others was unsurpassed by her passion to help all those she cared for deeply. Her strength and determination was known by many and she faced every battle with courage. Jennifer had a quirky and silly sense of humor that will be immensely missed by everyone. “Your wings were ready but our hearts were not.” Heaven gained a beautiful angel. Visitation will be held 2-4 and 6-8 PM on Monday, November 26th At the Knight-Auchmoody Funeral Home, 154 E. Main St., Port Jervis, NY. Funeral services will be held at 3:30 PM PM at the funeral home. Rev. Joseph Manarchuck will officiate. Interment will be private. Memorial contributions may be made in Jennifer’s name to the komen.org organization for breast cancer. Arrangements are by the Knight-Auchmoody Funeral Home, 154 E. Main St., Port Jervis, NY. For information, directions or to send a condolence note to the family visit knight-auchmoody.com

Frederick J. “Sonny” Decker, Sr. age 75 of Port Jervis, NY passed away November 20, 2018 at his home. He was born on November 14, 1943 in Port Jervis, NY the son of the late Lester W. and Lizzie Scheels Decker. Fred worked as trackman for the Erie R.R. in Port Jervis. He was a former member of the Tri-State Rod & Gun Club. Fred married Mildred Conklin who pre-deceased him. He is survived by his son Frederick Decker, II and his daughter Shawn Decker, several nieces and nephews and his close friends Joseph and Susan Curtis of Port Jervis. He was pre-deceased by his sister Minnie Marsh and his brother Charles Decker on October 12, 2018. Memorial services will be held 2 PM Wednesday, November 28th at the Knight-Auchmoody Funeral Home, 154 E. Main St., Port Jervis, NY. Rev. Nancy Vonderhorsrt will officiate. Interment will take place in Pine Grove Cemetery, Matamoras, Pennsylvania. Memorial contributions may be made in Fred’s name to the Port Jervis-Deerpark Humane Society, Route 209, Port Jervis, NY. 12771. Arrangements are by the Knight-Auchmoody Funeral Home, 154 E. Main St., Port Jervis, NY. For information, directions or to send a condolence note to the family visit knight-auchmoody.com.

Donald “Sonny” Reiff age 84 of Port Jervis, NY passed away Monday, November 19, 2018 at home surrounded by his family. He was born on June 29, 1934 in Marion, Ohio the son of Donald R. Reiff, Sr. and Isabelle Plock Reiff. Sonny was a retired co-owner of Perk’s Welding in Port Jervis for many years. He was a member of Maghogomock Hook & Ladder, Port Jervis Fire Dept. He was also a member of the Port Jervis Lodge of Elks, #645, B.P.O.E. and the Mongaup Rod & Gun Club. Sonny married Shirley C. Price who pre-deceased him in 2015. He is survived by his daughter Carol Kimble of Port Jervis, his two sons Joseph Reiff and his companion Patti Hawkins of Cuddebackville, NY, and Gary Reiff and his wife Kelly of Sparrowbush, his five grandchildren; Donald III, Joseph, Jr., Brett, Nicole and Jason, his seven great grandchildren; Kristin, Dylan, Derek, Aubree, Aiden, Jaxon, Jalynn as well as several nieces and nephews. He was pre-deceased by his sister Diane Reagan and his brother James Reiff and his son-in-law Donald Kimble. Graveside services will be private at Pine Hill Cemetery, Sparrowbush, NY. Memorial contributions may be made in Donald’s name to the Port Jervis-Deerpark Humane Society, Route 209, Port Jervis, NY 12771 or to the Port Jervis Vol Ambulance Corps., Box 133, Port Jervis, NY 12771. Arrangements are by the Knight-Auchmoody Funeral Home, 154 E. Main St., Port Jervis, NY. For information, or to send a condolence note to the family visit knight-auchmoody.com.

Margaret Burger age 102 of Port Jervis, NY passed away Saturday, November 17, 2018 at The Kaplan Family Residence, Newburgh, NY. She was born June 19, 1916 in Matamoras, Pennsylvania the daughter of J. Frederick and Margaret Maguire Schumacher. In her earlier years Margaret and her late husband Bill owned and operated Burger’s Music Store in Port Jervis. Margaret continued to work in the business office at Doctor’s Sunnyside Hospital for many years until her retirement. She was a faithful member of the Deerpark Reformed Church and a member of the Women’s League of the Church. She was also a member of the Deerpark Seniors, the Deerpark Leisure Club, the Golden Seniors, the Friendly Seniors and a member of the Mayor’s Senior Advisory Board. Margaret married William C. Burger, who pre-deceased her. She is survived by her daughter Mary Ann Gemmill of Middletown, NY, her beloved grandchildren; Wayne Gemmill, Jr. of Middletown, Wendy Staples of Los Alamos, New Mexico, Kimberly Davidson and her husband Matt of State College, Pennsylvania, seven great grandchildren; Braydon, Parker, Amber, Austin, Jenna, Orion, and Cameron, several nieces and nephews. Margaret was pre-deceased by her sister Dorothy Lehrer and her sister Veronica Cherry. Graveside services, to be announced at a later date, will be held in the spring at Pine Hill Cemetery, Sparrowbush, NY. Memorial contributions may be made in Margaret’s name to the Deerpark Reformed Church, 30 East Main St., Port Jervis, NY. 12771. Arrangements are by the Knight-Auchmoody Funeral Home, 154 E. Main St., Port Jervis, NY. For information, directions or to send a condolence note to the family visit knight-auchmoody.com.

ERNESTINE "PIDGE" AKT January 23,1936 - November 15, 2018 Pond Eddy, NY Ernestine passed away peacefully November 15, 2018 at the Kaplan House Hospice, Newburgh, NY. The daughter of the late Earnest Lovelace and Imogene Conklin Lovelace Hulse, Pidge was born at home in Godeffroy, NY. She is survived by her husband of 40 years, Walter G. Akt. She is also survived by her children; Michael Smith of Sleepy Hollow, NY, Joseph Smith and his wife, Susan of Glen Spey NY, Howard Smith of Pond Eddy, NY, Anthony Smith and his wife, Jill of Erie, PA, Lynn Smith of Winchester, VA, Phyllis Deninger and her husband, Peter of Sarasota, FL, Valerie Harris and her husband, Dusty of Barryville, NY, Wally Akt III and his wife, Adriana of Groton, MA, James Akt and his wife, Caroline of Glen Spey, NY, John Travis and his wife, Noel of Whitman, MA and Walter G. Akt's daughter, Carolann. Her sisters; Laraine Regina and her husband, Sal of Woodbourne, NY, Naomi Thorpe of Forestburg, NY, Katrina Woloszynowski and her husband, John and her brother Randy Lovelace. Ernestine is also survived by her beloved grandchildren, great-grandcildren, as well as many nieces and nephews. It was said in a family statement: "Her kitchen was always open to family and friends." Graveside services will be held at 1 p.m., Monday, November 26 at Rural Valley Cemetery, Cuddebackville, NY. Captain Kelly Ross will officiate. Memorial contributions can be made to the Salvation Army Corp Community Center, 99 Ball Street, Port Jervis, NY 12771. Arrangements are by the Knight-Auchmoody Funeral Home, 154 E. Main St., Port Jervis, NY; for information, or directions or to send a condolence note to the family visit www.knight-auchmoody.com

Marjorie Fuller age 72 of Port Jervis, NY passed away Friday, November 16, 2018 in Middletown, NY surrounded by her loving family. She was born on April 14, 1946 in Honesdale, Pennsylvania, the daughter of the late Allen and Helen Bates. Marjorie was a member of the First Presbyterian Church, Port Jervis, a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution Old Mine Road Chapter, a founder and member of the Crafty Stitchers, a member of the Milford Valley Quilters Guild and a former member of the Minisink Valley Historical Society. She married her devoted husband, Edward C. Fuller, Sr. on June 27, 1964 who survives at home. Marjorie is also survived by her two sons Edward Fuller, Jr., and his wife Laurie and James Fuller and his wife Dawn all of Matamoras, Pennsylvania, her daughter Katherine Curreri and her husband Jamie of Montague, New Jersey, her beloved grandchildren; Tyler, Erin, Alan, Justin, Mitchell and Hunter, her sisters-in-law Arlene Stewart of Ohio and Susan Van Ostrand of Tennessee, several nieces and nephews. Marjorie was an especially kind and beautiful soul who was often driven to participate in projects that helped people in need. She loved long car rides with the love of her life, nature walks, bird watching, genealogical research, sewing, decorating cakes, listening to all kinds of music, her dog Candy, anything strawberry, laughing at funny stories, and learning new things. Most of all, she loved her family unconditionally and doted over her grandchildren. Visitation will be held 12 noon -1:30 PM Wednesday, November 21, at the Knight-Auchmoody Funeral Home, 154 E.Main St., Port Jervis, NY. Funeral services will follow at 1:30 PM at the funeral home. Rev. Ann Akers will officiate. Interment will be private. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, 121 Executive Drive, New Windsor, NY 12553. Arrangements are by the Knight-Auchmoody Funeral Home, 154 E. Main St., Port Jervis, NY. For information, directions or to send a condolence note to the family visit knight-auchmoody.com.

STANLEY MARKOWSKI June 15, 1926 – November 13, 2018 Stanley P. Markowski, “Stan” of Eldred, NY passed away peacefully on Tuesday, November 13, 2018. He was 92 years old. Stan was born June 15, 1926 on the lower eastside of Manhattan, NY, one of six siblings born to Antoinette Stala Markowski and Andrew Markowski. Stanley proudly served our country in the US Army Air Force and met the love of his life, Katharina Lill, while stationed in Straubing, Germany during World War II. They married in Manhattan, August 29, 1948. Stan and Kathe were married for almost 28 years until Kathe’s unexpected and sudden death on February 7, 1976. Stan was a locksmith at Hunter College for many years, retiring in 1988. He truly enjoyed his 30 years of retirement, travelling and spending time with family and friends. Stanley is a member of St. Anthony of Padua R.C. Church, Yulan, NY and a member of Tusten-Highland-Lumberland VFW Post #6427. Stanley is survived by his two daughters, Karin Salem (Robert, deceased) of North Massapequa, NY and Heide Hoblin (John) of Breezy Point, NY. “Pop-Pop” will be missed by his four beloved grandchildren, Robert Salem (Amy), Kristen Krompier (Timothy), Jamie Valenski (Gregory) and John Hoblin (Sabina), and his six great-grandchildren, Sonny, Robert, Aidan, Jack, Eva and Jude. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Anthony of Padua Roman Catholic Church, 25 Beaverbrook Road, Yulan, NY on Saturday, November 17, 2018 at 12:00 Noon. Father Joselin Bekmans will be the celebrant. Interment will follow with military honors at St. Anthony’s Cemetery, Eldred, NY. Memorial contributions may be made in his memory to: Veterans of Foreign War, Post 6427, 58 Old Minisink Road, Barryville, NY 12719 and/or Sunshine Hall Free Library, 14 Proctor Road, Eldred, NY 12732 Arrangements are by the Knight-Auchmoody Funeral Home, 154 E. Main St., Port Jervis, NY. For information, directions, or to send a condolence note to the family visit knight-auchmoody.com

Dorothy M. Onofry On November 12, 2018 Dorothy M. Onofry, a lifelong resident of Port Jervis, passed peacefully under the care of those at St. Joseph’s Place. Affectionately known as “Dot” to many, she was born on March 9, 1925 to the late Charles and Margaret Heussy. Eventually marrying the late Richard L. Onofry, she was the mother of nine children. Hopping from home to home as her husband built and sold newly constructed houses, the ever-expanding family eventually settled on Ferguson Avenue. There Dot first opened her doors (and pool) to friends and neighbors of hers, and her kids. Then to what became dozens of grandchildren born over three decades, and their friends. Hosting events (both planned and unplanned), her home was the hub. The pick up and drop off point. The place sick grandkids (or those claiming to be sick) sought safe haven. Grandkids that eventually bestowed upon her a new title – great grandmother, for the dozens that came into the family during her lifetime. While her kids, and their kids, occupied and fueled much of her long life, Dot also found time to work. A salesperson at “Bob and Betty” along Front Street for many years, she put her knowledge of clothing children to work and kept her grandchildren in the latest attire. She was also regularly seen at the beauty parlor; could play a mean hand of cards, backgammon or Trouble. She loved reading, threading the needle, and creating beautiful works to display, as well as creations for wear or warmth. Predeceased by her husband, Richard L. Onofry, her daughter, Robyn P. Onofry, and her sons-in-law, David M. Aber, Ph.D., and Robert W. Boyd, she is survived by her children, Richard M. Onofry and his wife, Lynda of Port Jervis, Hon. Robert A. Onofry and his wife, Linda of Port Jervis, Margaret Boyd of Glenwood, MN, William C. Onofry and his wife, Susan of Sparrowbush, Dr. Craig T. Onofry and his wife, Christine of Bluffton, SC, Suzanne L. Aber of Wethersfield, CT, Charles D. Onofry, Esq. and his wife, Jacqueline of Phoenix, AZ, and Kim M. Polanis of Port Jervis. As well as the numerous generations of grandchildren and great grandchildren. Visitation will be held 11 AM-12 Noon Friday, November 16, at the Knight-Auchmoody, 154 E. Main St., Port Jervis, NY. Funeral services will follow at 12 noon at the funeral home with Rev. Jose Rodriguez officiating. Interment will take place at St. Mary’s Cemetery, Port Jervis, NY. Arrangements are by the Knight-Auchmoody Funeral Home, 154 E.Main St., Port Jervis, NY. For information, directions or to send a condolence note to the family visit knight-auchmoody.com.

John F. Neuber age 88 of Port Jervis, NY passed away November 5, 2018 at Orange Regional Medical Center, Middletown, NY. He was born in Port Jervis, NY on September 8, 1930 the son of Otto H. And Rilla Vail Neuber. John proudly served our country during the Korean War from 1951-1953 with the US Army. John was a well known antiques dealer in Port Jervis for many years. He is survived by his sisters; Emma Hall of Sparrowbush, Catherine (Kay) Hansen of Vero Beach, Florida, Louise Meyer of Portsmouth, Virginia, Margaret Anderson of Lafayette, New Jersey, Frances (Fran) Smith of Sumter, South Carolina, and Elizabeth Ritzel of Summerton, South Carolina, several nieces and nephews. John was pre-deceased by his daughter and his brother Earl Neuber. Graveside services with military honors will be held 1 PM Friday, November 23, at the Orange County Veterans Cemetery, Goshen, NY. Memorial contributions may be made to Empowering Port Jervis, 11 Fowler St., Port Jervis, NY 12771. Arrangements are by the Knight-Auchmoody Funeral Home, 154 E. Main St., Port Jervis, NY. For information, directions or to send a condolence note to the family visit knight-auchmoody.com.

Margaret L. “Peggy” MacKechnie, nee Gilmore, of Highland Lake, NY passed away peacefully in her beloved Yellow House on Saturday November 3, 2018 surrounded by friends and family and her husband of 70 years, Russell. Peggy was born on May 9, 1926 in Brooklyn, NY one of six children born to Mary Ellen (nee Clarkin) and Eugene W. Gilmore, a World War I pilot who taught Fiorello LaGuardia how to fly while stationed in Italy. Peggy met her true love Russell W. MacKechnie, a decorated World War II veteran, while summering in Highland Lake. They married on October 30, 1948. Peggy used her finely tuned organizational skills in her lifelong career as a Legal Secretary at the law firm of Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz, New York City, NY. A lover of reading and travel, Peggy completed the New York Times crossword puzzle daily, had an affinity for challenging friends and strangers in Scrabble or Words with Friends, played Bridge weekly or whenever she could get a game together, and visited all fifty states and many other worldly destinations. Peggy was happiest in her Yellow House in the “best spot on the lake,” a place for family and friends new and old to sit on the deck, take a dip, and enjoy company and laughs. Peggy was the family matriarch in the truest sense of the word. She never missed a birthday, anniversary, or holiday, and always had the favorite ice cream flavors of her children and grandchildren on hand. Her memory and attention to detail will never be matched, and her ability to guide you to the smallest item in any part of their home was a thing of beauty. She could organize a household or an entire event with her Peggy Plans, and if something was on her mind you’d be sure to know. Peggy was predeceased by her siblings and their spouses: James Gilmore (Leona), Lawrence Gilmore, Eugene Gilmore (Mildred), Rosemary McLaughlin, and Sister Mary Eugene Gilmore, her sister-in-law, Mabel Fox, her beloved grandson, Kyle MacKechnie, and her son- in-law, James G. Murtha. She leaves behind to love her always, her husband of 70 years, Russell W. MacKechnie and their five children; Russell W. (Rox), Sheila Murtha, Keith (Dawn), Mary Ellen Carney (James), and Marti (Debbie). “Nana” will be missed by her grandchildren; Erin Murtha, James Murtha (Mak), Kaitlin Haas (Jeffrey), Mary Ellen Carney, Bernard J. Carney, III (Alyssa Marks), Sarah MacKechnie, Michael MacKechnie (Justine), Jeremy MacKechnie (David Byrnes), and Collin MacKechnie and her great-grandchildren Harrison, Benjamin, and Talulah, and Baby Haas, expected in March; her cousin Constance Ernenwein (Stanley), many nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews, friends, Bridge partners, neighbors and especially Edward Mellan. Peggy was a long time parishioner of St. Anthony's of Padua in Yulan, NY, where she also taught Religious Education and volunteered at the Food Pantry over the years. Services are under the care of Knight Auchmoody Funeral Home 154 E. Main Street Port Jervis, NY. The wake will be Wednesday November 7, 2018 from 2-4 P.M. and 6-8 P.M. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Anthony's of Padua Catholic Church 25 Beaverbrook Road Yulan, NY on November 8, 2018 at 11:00 A.M. with Father Joselin as the celebrant. Burial to follow at St. Anthony's Cemetery Eldred, NY. The family is so thankful for the loving care of Juliet Lord and for Tony LaRuffa and Toni Ann Duncan. Donations can be made in memory of Peggy to the American Legion Ambulance Corps 2 Collins Road, Eldred, NY 12732 or the Yulan Fire Department PO Box 127 Yulan, NY 12792. Arrangements are by the Knight-Auchmoody Funeral Home, 154 E. Main St., Port Jervis, NY. For information, directions or to send a condolence note to the family visit knight-auchmoody.com.

George Christy Feighner, Sr. age 92 of Montague, New Jersey passed away Saturday, November 3, 2018 at his home surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Chicago, Illinois on February 9, 1926 the son of Christy and Alice Gies Feighner. George proudly served our country during WWII with the United States Navy. George achieved his B.S. in Science in 1949 and his M.S. in Organic Chemistry in 1950 at the University of Michigan. He continued his education completing many graduate courses from 1952-1960 and many Technical and Management Short Courses at Oklahoma State University. George founded and was the owner and manager of Scientific Services S/D, Inc. in Sparrowbush, NY for fifty years. The Laboratory provides formulation and testing services to the Detergent, Household Products and Personal Care Industries. He served as Vice-President for 20 years of ARGEO and was a consultant for Detergent and Chemical Industries from 1972to present. He founded and managed Argeon Industries, Inc., a company to develop and manufacture cosmetics and personal care products from 1972-1993. He owned and operated Managing Partner Maner Co. 1977-1992 and Research and Development, Technical Service Laboratory and Project Management, Continental Oil Co, R&D and Petrochemical Dept. for 22 years in Ponca City, Oklahoma. George received numerous awards and twenty-seven patents, both US and foreign in the soap, detergent, oil, and petrochemical industry. His name has appeared in many different publications. At present George was an active chair member of ASTM D-12 Committee on Soaps and Detergents, a member of the American Chemical Society, the American Association for the Advancement of Science and the Society of Cosmetic Chemists. A family statement read “ my Dad was the one of the most intelligent men in the world. He enjoyed the challenge of engaging in difficult tasks. At a very young age he knew that he enjoyed science and stated that he was a lucky person due to the fact that he was able to do what he loved until the end." He was an avid golfer, reader, and gardener. He enjoyed traveling and sailing, there was very little that he did not like to do. In his younger years he was a rock hunter, fisherman, camper and hunter, just to mention a few of his hobbies. He also enjoyed beekeeping and his Christmas Tree Farm. George is survived by his wife of 73 years Ruth J. Zink Feighner at home. He is also survived by his daughter Diane Libby and her husband Terrance Myers of Franklin Lakes, New Jersey, his beloved grandchildren Tracy Lindsay and her husband Timothy and Jeffrey Libby, two great grandchildren; Kelly and Timmy Lindsay, his step- sister Gladys MacRoberts, his step-brother Robert Arnold. He was pre-deceased by his two sons Eric R. Feighner, George C. Feighner, Jr., and his step-father Edwin Arnold. Memorial services will be announced at a later date by the Knight-Auchmoody Funeral Home, 154 E. Main St., Port Jervis, NY. Memorial contributions may be made to Karen Ann Quinlan Hospice, 99 Sparta Ave., Newton, NJ 07860. For information, directions or to send a condolence note to the family visit knight-auchmoody.com. Arrangements are by the Knight-Auchmoody Funeral Home, 154 E. Main St., Port Jervis, NY.

Margaret L. “Peggy” MacKechnie, nee Gilmore, of Highland Lake, NY passed away peacefully in her beloved Yellow House on Saturday November 3, 2018 surrounded by friends and family and her husband of 70 years, Russell. Peggy was born on May 9, 1926 in Brooklyn, NY one of six children born to Mary Ellen (nee Clarkin) and Eugene W. Gilmore, a World War I pilot who taught Fiorello LaGuardia how to fly while stationed in Italy. Peggy met her true love Russell W. MacKechnie, a decorated World War II veteran, while summering in Highland Lake. They married on October 30, 1948. Peggy used her finely tuned organizational skills in her lifelong career as a Legal Secretary at the law firm of Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz, New York City, NY. A lover of reading and travel, Peggy completed the New York Times crossword puzzle daily, had an affinity for challenging friends and strangers in Scrabble or Words with Friends, played Bridge weekly or whenever she could get a game together, and visited all fifty states and many other worldly destinations. Peggy was happiest in her Yellow House in the “best spot on the lake,” a place for family and friends new and old to sit on the deck, take a dip, and enjoy company and laughs. Peggy was the family matriarch in the truest sense of the word. She never missed a birthday, anniversary, or holiday, and always had the favorite ice cream flavors of her children and grandchildren on hand. Her memory and attention to detail will never be matched, and her ability to guide you to the smallest item in any part of their home was a thing of beauty. She could organize a household or an entire event with her Peggy Plans, and if something was on her mind you’d be sure to know. Peggy was predeceased by her siblings and their spouses: James Gilmore (Leona), Lawrence Gilmore, Eugene Gilmore (Mildred), Rosemary McLaughlin, and Sister Mary Eugene Gilmore, her sister-in-law, Mabel Fox, her beloved grandson, Kyle MacKechnie, and her son- in-law, James G. Murtha. She leaves behind to love her always, her husband of 70 years, Russell W. MacKechnie and their five children; Russell W. (Rox), Sheila Murtha, Keith (Dawn), Mary Ellen Carney (James), and Marti (Debbie). “Nana” will be missed by her grandchildren; Erin Murtha, James Murtha (Mak), Kaitlin Haas (Jeffrey), Mary Ellen Carney, Bernard J. Carney, III (Alyssa Marks), Sarah MacKechnie, Michael MacKechnie (Justine), Jeremy MacKechnie (David Byrnes), and Collin MacKechnie and her great-grandchildren Harrison, Benjamin, and Talulah, and Baby Haas, expected in March; her cousin Constance Ernenwein (Stanley), many nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews, friends, Bridge partners, neighbors and especially Edward Mellan. Peggy was a long time parishioner of St. Anthony's of Padua in Yulan, NY, where she also taught Religious Education and volunteered at the Food Pantry over the years. Services are under the care of Knight Auchmoody Funeral Home 154 E. Main Street Port Jervis, NY. The wake will be Wednesday November 7, 2018 from 2-4 P.M. and 6-8 P.M. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Anthony's of Padua Catholic Church 25 Beaverbrook Road Yulan, NY on November 8, 2018 at 11:00 A.M. with Father Joselin as the celebrant. Burial to follow at St. Anthony's Cemetery Eldred, NY. The family is so thankful for the loving care of Juliet Lord and for Tony LaRuffa and Toni Ann Duncan. Donations can be made in memory of Peggy to the American Legion Ambulance Corps 2 Collins Road, Eldred, NY 12732 or the Yulan Fire Department PO Box 127 Yulan, NY 12792. Arrangements are by the Knight-Auchmoody Funeral Home, 154 E. Main St., Port Jervis, NY. For information, directions or to send a condolence note to the family visit knight-auchmoody.com.

Mr. Alexander Grech Jr. of Port Jervis, N.Y. passed away on November 1, 2018. He was 93. He was born in Jerome, Pennsylvania on March 16, 1925. He was the son of Alexander and Pauline Babey Grech. He married Betty Jean Spears on January 29, 1950. They were married just shy of 67 years. Betty passed on January 16, 2017. Also predeceased are his sisters, Ann Caley and Mary Bray, and brother Russell Grech. Family was everything. Alex is survived by his children, Kathleen Pepper and Martin Mann of Port Jervis, Stephanie Lovato of Harwinton, Connecticut, his son, Alexander Grech, III and his wife Phyllis of St. Johnsbury, Vermont and Bridget Grech-Mehedin of Port Jervis, N.Y. Also, surviving him are his beloved grandchildren; Heather Lane and her husband Daniel, Robert Pepper and his fiancé Clarissa, Ryan Pepper, Tracey and Jonathan Nelson, Jeffrey Lovato and his wife Charleen, Jason and Jeremy Lovato, Elizabeth Grech, Julianne Grech, Alexander Grech, IV, Christopher Mehedin and his fiancée Ashley Thompson, and Nicholas Mehedin. His great grandchildren are; Owen, Max, Jake, Mackenzie, Joey, Erin, Miranda and Lexi. There are also several nieces and nephews. Alex will be sadly missed by his canine buddy and pal, “Charley”. Charley will miss Alex’s love, getting up with the sun, and their daily long walks about town.Alex attended St. Mary’s School in Port Jervis, N.Y. and graduated from Port Jervis Senior High School. He is also a graduate of the University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky. He earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Business. He was a lifetime member of Delta Chi Fraternity. Prior to his university experiences, Alex served in the military of the United States of America. After the Pearl Harbor attack on December 7, 1941, Alex at the age of 16, became a United States Marine. He joined the 4th Marine Parachute Battalion. After this battalion disbanded, Alex became part of the newly formed 5th Marine Division Fleet. Later, Alex was part of Headquarters Company, 5th Marine Division, 27th Marines, 3rd Battalion. His battalion’s mission was to support the front lines, with the overall sole purpose of securing the island of Iwo Jima. Once a Marine, always a Marine.“We were on a very small island with little cover, Alex said. “We had nowhere to hide, and just hoped to stay alive from day to day.”“It was a chance to do my patriotic duty and to fulfill my dream as a 15-16 year old. While I lost a lot of brothers during the war, for my country I would do it all over again. I have no regrets.”Alex worked on the Erie Railroad. He retired as an Engineer after 50 years of service with New Jersey Transit.Alex was always active. He enjoyed playing volleyball and racquetball. He was a member of Roosa-Fleming V.F.W. Post #161. He was a lifetime member of Fowler Rescue and Salvage Company #3. Alex was one of the first members of the Scuba Team. He trained many novice divers. Many friends and family knew him by his nickname “Apple.” He was also a “collector extraordinaire.” Alex had a life well lived. He was an optimist. He would always say, “It’s a beautiful day.”Visitation will be held Sunday, November 4th from 1-4 at Knight-Auchmoody Funeral Home, 154 E. Main St. Port Jervis, N.Y. Prayers will be offered at 3:30 P.M. Sunday, with Reverend Billy Clark officiating. Military honors will follow. Internment will be private. Arrangements are by the Knight-Auchmoody Funeral Home, 154 E. Main St., Port Jervis, NY. For information, directions, or to send a condolence note visit knight-auchmoody.com