French, Gifford, Preiter & Blasl Funeral Home

03/16/2026

James Robedee, born on November 30, 1965, passed away peacefully on March 8, 2026, at Columbia Memorial Hospital, Hudson. His departure leaves a quiet yet profound void in the hearts of those who knew him.

James will be remembered with dignity and respect, his memory cherished quietly but deeply by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A graveside service to honor and celebrate his life will be held on March 18, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. and will take place in the Catskill Town Cemetery, located at 27 N. Jefferson Avenue in Catskill, 12414. Providing a time for family, friends and the community to gather in remembrance.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Robert M. Donaghue, French, Gifford, Preiter & Blasl Funeral Home, Chatham.

View James Robedee's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/12/2026

Mary E. Oakley, 55, of Hudson passed away unexpectedly on February 28, 2026, at Albany Medical Center. Born on January 30, 1971 in Hudson to the late Martin Hanlon and Gwendolyn Werner.

She was a deeply caring individual who dedicated her life to supporting others, particularly through her long-standing career as a direct support professional and employment trainer for COARC. Senior counselor for the mental health associations and head of cleaning staff for Bard College for many years. Throughout her years of service, she made a profound impact on the lives of those she cared for, embodying compassion and devotion in every aspect of her work.

Mary was a devoted mother to her two sons, James and Jake Oakley, who were her proudest accomplishments. She always put the needs of her family first and foremost, fostering a warm and loving home filled with cherished memories. Her nurturing spirit extended beyond her immediate family, as she was known for her kindness and the care she provided to all those around her.

Mary is lovingly remembered by her mother, Gwendolyn Hanlon, and her brother and sister-in-law, Kevin and Casey Hanlon. She is survived by her step-siblings, Lisa Smith and Wayne (Dana) Smith, as well as her sisters-in-law, Doreen Oakley, Patricia Klein, Delores Winters, and Margaret Gannon. Her former husband, Ronald Oakley, in addition to several nieces, nephews, and cousins.She was preceded in death by her father, Martin Hanlon, and her siblings, Terry Hanlon, Elton Garvey, Deborah Meltz, and Martin Hanlon Jr. She was also preceded by her brother-in-law, Bruce Oakley.

A Celebration of Life will take place on March 28, 2026, at Kinderhook Reformed Dutch Church, located at 21 Broad St, Kinderhook, NY 12106, from 2:00 to 5:00pm. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations may be made to support Jake & James, by check to Joshua Hanlon, at 785 County Route 28, Valatie 12184, Venmo @ joshhanlon720 or Cash App $joshhanlon720.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Robert M. Donaghue, French, Gifford, Preiter & Blasl Funeral Home, Chatham.

View Mary E. Oakley's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/11/2026

Joyce Elaine Dixon, 83, passed away peacefully at her home in Chatham in the early morning hours of March 9, 2026. Born on December 4, 1942, in Nyack, New York. She was the daughter of the late Harry and Alice (Bristol) Dardess.

Joyce graduated from Chatham High School and embarked on a successful career in banking, starting in 1967 as a teller at State Bank of Albany/Fleet Bank in Chatham. Her dedication and conscientious nature led her to Hudson City Savings Bank in 1993, followed by a role as accounts payable clerk for Chatham Central School District from 1995 until her retirement in 2006. Throughout her career, Joyce was revered as a meticulous record keeper, demonstrating professionalism and care in every task she undertook.

Joyce had a passion for gardening and found solace in planting seeds and spending time outdoors. Her love for nature was complemented by her enjoyment of shelf browsing with her sister at the Berry Farm and other local stores, where she often discovered hidden treasures. Cooking and baking were also favorite pastimes and she made sure to catalog her favorite recipes to share with her family. These hobbies reflected her vibrant spirit and her ability to find joy in simple pleasures.

Joyce loved to reminisce about family gatherings, like the annual Dixon fair party, playing cards, and the many family adventures through the years. Her infectious laugh and storytelling were second to none. Her stories were often accompanied by the laughter that came so naturally to her.

Joyce is survived by her loving son, Eric H. Dixon; her sister, Jane Herzhauser; her sisters-in-laws: Joanne Dixon, Gertrude Kuhn, Dr. Margaret (Peggy) Basti and her husband Dr. Jeffrey Basti. Additionally, she leaves behind a large extended family, including many nieces, nephews, and cousins, each of whom carries a piece of her legacy. The Family would like to thank Lisa Samsel for her loving and devoted care which allowed Joyce to remain home until the end.

Joyce was preceded in death by her parents, her devoted husband Gerald Dixon, her brother-in-laws: Roger Herzhauser, George, & Henry Dixon, Charles & Dr. John Kuhn and her cherished dogs, Marley, Muffin, and Jake.

In life, Joyce embodied the essence of love, kindness, and dedication. Her family and friends will forever cherish the moments they spent with her and the indelible mark she left on their lives. Arrangements have been entrusted to Robert M. Donaghue, French, Gifford, Preiter & Blasl Funeral Home, Chatham. Graveside services will take place in the spring.

View Joyce Elaine Dixon's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/11/2026

Jane Kinch, 76, formerly of Ghent, passed away peacefully on March 7, 2026 at the Pines in Catskill. She was born on August 21, 1949. Jane lived a life marked by her kindness and compassion, leaving a lasting impression on those who had the privilege of knowing her.

She was a warm-hearted person who embraced every moment, treating friends and acquaintances alike with respect and genuine interest. While Jane never married, she cultivated deep, meaningful relationships throughout her life, demonstrating a remarkable ability to connect with others.

Those who knew Jane are welcome to join together on Friday, March 13, 2026 for a graveside service at 10:00 am, in Cedar Park Cemetery, 20 Columbia Turnpike, Hudson, New York.

Arrangements are entrusted to Robert M. Donaghue, of French, Gifford, Preiter & Blasl Funeral Home, Chatham.

View Jane Kinch's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/03/2026

Ruth E. Hill, 92, passed away peacefully on February 25, 2026, at her residence in Chatham. Born on April 17, 1933, in Buffalo, New York she was the daughter of J. Norton and Mildred (Cushing) Ewart. She met Hellen Keller while in high school, which inspired her to pursue a career as a speech therapist. She obtained a Master's degree in Speech Therapy and began her professional journey with the Jamestown School District before transitioning to Chatham, where she taught speech therapy at the College of Saint Rose. Her career later brought her to the Anderson School in Staatsburg, New York, where she continued to impart her knowledge and skills.

Ruth's life was filled with adventure and a love for travel. Even in her nineties, she remained an enthusiastic explorer, having climbed to the top of waterfalls in Jamaica and zip lined over Niagara Falls. She embraced life with a strong will and a spirit that inspired those around her. Ruth was deeply involved in her church community, serving as a Lay Leader and exemplifying a profound faith that touched many lives. Additionally, she was an active member of the Daughters of the American Revolution, Hendrick Hudson Chapter, where she diligently served as treasurer. Her warm heart and generous spirit shone through in her participation in community activities and shared experiences, including lively outings to see the TSO with her daughters Heather and Cindy.
Beyond her professional accomplishments and community involvement, Ruth held her family close to her heart.

She is survived by her five beloved children: Deborah Carter, James Scott (Michelle) Hill, Cindy (James) Geno, Heather Hill, and Kerry (Kerrie Kovaleski) Hill. Additionally, she leaves behind seven loving grandchildren: Corey Carter, Lori Marie, Theodore Kebra Nagast Nelson, Tifanie Smith, James Hill and Jesse and Christopher Geno. Ruth was affectionately known as GiGi and 2G to her great-grandchildren: Caleb, Harper, Logan, and Adrian. She is also survived by her brother, James Ewart, and her sisters-in-law Bonnie (Gordon) Kaiser and Patricia Ewart.Ruth was predeceased by her husband, James Hill, who passed away in 2001, as well as her brothers Robert and Donald Ewart and sister in law, Nancy Ewart.

A time for sharing memories and offering condolences will be on Thursday, March 5th from Noon to 2:00 pm at the funeral home, 25 Railroad Avenue, Chatham, New York. A funeral service will commence at 2:00 pm and will be officiated by Pastor Squires of the Chatham United Methodist Church. In lieu of flowers, donations in Ruth's memory may be made to the The Hendrick Hudson Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, 113 Warren Street, Hudson, NY 12534, Community Hospice, 47 Liberty Street, Catskill, NY 12414 or Chatham United Methodist Church, 13 Kinderhook Street, Chatham, NY 12037. Arrangements are entrusted to Robert M. Donaghue, of French, Gifford, Preiter & Blasl Funeral Home, Chatham.

View Ruth E. Hill's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

02/28/2026

It was our privilege to welcome the Capital Region Nurses Honor Guard as they paid a final tribute to Elaine Hooke. Elaine embarked on her nursing career in 1955, dedicating her professional life to the care of others. On behalf of the family, we extend our gratitude to the Honor Guard for this dignified tribute.

02/21/2026

Fuel the Bot! The CHS Artemis robotics team is hosting a Chipotle fundraiser Sunday, February 22 from 4-8pm at Chipotle, 279 Troy Rd. Ste 5, Rensselaer. Whether you’re craving a bowl, burrito, or just some chips and guac, 25% of your purchase goes directly to our team!

Order online using code nvafk6z for pickup.

Ordering in person? Just show this post/flyer at the register!

02/20/2026

Elaine G. Hooke, 91, passed away peacefully of natural causes on January 19, 2026 in Menifee, California. She was born on May 12, 1934, in New York, the daughter of Delmer and Lillian (Sharp) Goodrich and sister to twin brothers Del Jr. and Roger Goodrich. Elaine’s journey through life was marked by her unwavering commitment to her family, friends, her career and a variety of interests.

Elaine attended schools in Rock City, Selkirk and Chatham, graduating from Chatham High School in 1952. She went on to make her mark graduating from Union University School of Nursing as a Registered Nurse in 1955. She practiced in both the maternity and men’s wards at Albany Medical Center. Throughout her career she strove to provide compassionate care.

In 1959, just 4 months after a blind double date with a “Brit” arranged by her brother, she married Ramon (Ray) Hooke at St Peter’s Presbyterian Church in Spencertown. Elaine left nursing for a year to manage the new Royalton Hotel in Hudson with her new husband but returned to nursing until motherhood redirected her focus. They had homes in Chatham Center and Valatie before a job transfer took them to Tustin, California. There Elaine continued working at a nursing home but found the greatest satisfaction caring for her private duty patients. She retired when Ray died in a tragic accident. Determined to support, educate and provide a stable home for her girls, she persevered. Eventually she sold her home to buy a single story in Yorba Linda, CA suitable to care for her ailing parents. At age 80 she had the forethought to join her youngest daughter and family in Menifee.

Family and friends were the cornerstones of Elaine's life. She lived to celebrate the milestones of her loved ones, including her two beloved daughters and her grandchildren. She supported her girls throughout life; guiding them through relationships and pregnancy, babysitting, and simply being available for a conversation or a laugh. She never missed a birthday or an anniversary. She found immense joy in her role as “Gramma”, a title she wore with pride; and she delighted in the growth of her three young great grandsons to whom she was “GiGi”. Each member of her family brought her unwavering happiness and love, and she cherished every moment spent together.

Elaine had a profound love for home arts, family history, animals, and sports. As a young woman Elaine rode horses and enjoyed dancing. Dogs were a constant in her life. She rarely missed an Angels or Lakers game. She was an occasional hobbyist: sewing, crafting, refinishing furniture and watercolor painting. She even wrote poetry for friends showcasing her humor. Her interest in genealogy and regional history made her a respected local historian, who relished sharing stories that connected her community to its roots. She contributed to the Chatham Press and recently published her life story.

She forged lasting friendships as a reliable neighbor, an active supporter of her high school and university alumni associations, and a Red Hat member. She embraced every opportunity to connect, laugh, and create memories with those around her. She was known to send flowers “just because”. As her mobility declined she utilized her iPad daily: messaging and sharing photos with family and friends, researching, reading news, and playing word puzzles.

Elaine’s spirit of giving was exemplified in her service to various organizations, reflecting her desire to contribute positively to her community, especially Chatham.

Elaine is survived by her two daughters Julie Montgomery and husband Rob of Chino Hills, CA; and Stacey Yeary and husband Kris of Menifee, CA; her five grandchildren: Nicole, Ashley, Sarah, Erin and Brian; three great grandsons: Liam, Merrick and Jett; and her bother Roger Goodrich of Tennessee. She was predeceased by her husband of 26 years in 1985, her brother Del Goodrich Jr. in 2022 and nephew Scott Goodrich in 2025.

A time for sharing memories and offering condolences will be on Friday, February 27, 2026 from 10:00 to 11:00am, at which time a brief prayer service will be held at French, Gifford, Preiter & Blasl Funeral Home, 25 Railroad Avenue, Chatham. Burial will follow at Ghent Union Cemetery. In lieu of flowers donations in Elaine’s memory may be made to the Chatham Village Historical Society, PO Box 270, Chatham NY 12037 or the American Red Cross.

View Elaine G. Hooke's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

02/12/2026

The volunteer fire service on Long Island, much like in many communities, is running on fumes. Companies are struggling to keep and recruit members as well as maintain financial stability. Fire chiefs are warning that delayed responses are becoming the norm, rather than the one off exception. Increased training requirements, time demands, and a lack of meaningful incentives are cited as some of the issues leading to burning out existing members faster than new ones can be recruited. Some departments are already leaning hard on mutual aid just to function, and others are one bad year away from shutting the doors altogether. This is not a recruitment problem alone, it is also a retention and just a reality problem in today’s society. It’s going to take collective effort from numerous different people and organizations to truly enact meaningful, lasting and desperately needed change. Communities just can’t keep pretending volunteers will just “figure it out” or that “it has worked in the past” and disregard the underlying issues. Public safety is going to keep taking the hit until those issues are adequately addressed.

02/10/2026

Hello,
Just wanted to reach out to those who know us and those who have done business with us for the past 21 years. Dawn-Marie and I have sold our business. It wasn't an easy decision, but we felt it was time. We want to thank those who have supported us and trusted us at the most difficult times in their lives. We hope we were all you needed us to be during those tímes.
We sold to Rob and Ashley Donaghue who also own the Peck and Peck Funeral Homes.
Robs wife, Ashley went to Chatham Schools and had lived in Ghent and will help in the business. Rob's sister-in-law Jessica Cunningham is a licensed funeral director and will be working with them. We just knew it was time; they bring energy and vision along with a caring heart to carry on the same dedicated service to our community. I will be staying on as manager so | will still be around, I just won't have a daily schedule.
Dawn-Marie after helping with the business, has also retired from Albany Medical College after a 38-year career in education. We're going to have some time to travel and enjoy our family and dear friends. Thank you for all your past support. French Gifford Preiter and Blasl continues serving each family as our own since 1864. With Dawn-Marie Vittoria Blasl French, Gifford, Preiter & Blasl Funeral Home

02/06/2026

Denise C. Barry, Ed.D, of East Chatham, a long-time educator, parish leader and former Chatham Central School District Board member, died suddenly at her home on February 1. She was 79.

Born in NYC on Oct. 10, 1946, the daughter of the late Donald and Clara (nee Gerity) Barry, Denise was raised on the Barry Farm in East Chatham and attended local schools. A 1964 graduate of Chatham High School, she earned a Bachelor's and a Master's Degree in Education from The College of St. Rose, and a Doctoral Degree in Education from the State University of New York in Albany. (One of Denise's proudest moments occured at her doctoral graduation when Governor Mario Cuomo presented her diploma while declaring "Let me be the first to call you Dr. Barry").

For more than forty years, Denise taught special education in the Hudson City Schools; moreover, she spent over thirty years in administrative and teaching positions during summer school sessions at local correctional facilities. She was also elected to the Board of Education in Chatham where she served for several years.

A life-long communicant of St. James Parish in Chatham, Denise was a Trustee of the church and served in many leadership positions including as Outreach Coordinator. In this capacity, Denise led the church's effort to provide for individuals and families in need, particularly at Christmas. Hundreds of area children received gifts over the years through "The Giving Tree," a program for which she paved the way.

Denise was appointed to the Board of Directors of COARC in 1972, and was the board's longest, continuously serving member. She was also appointed to the Board of Directors of Catholic Charities for Columbia and Greene Counties in 2004. Her leadership and volunteerism were recognized through numerous honors including, in 2006, the People Making a Difference award from the Zonta Club of Upper Hudson Valley--a commendation she shared with Benita Zahn and Kirsten Gillibrand; and the Jefferson Award for Volunteerism in the Capital District in 2010.

While her professional and civic accomplishments were many, Denise's most cherished ties were with her family. She leaves her brother Eugene M. Barry of East Chatham; three nephews, Donald (DJ) Barry with whom she made her home, Daniel Barry and his wife Kerianne of Wilmington, MA, and Stephen Barry and his wife Jessica of Albany. She is also survived by five (great) nieces and nephews, Keira, Alice, Eoghan, Charlotte and Calvin, and many, many devoted friends.

Friends and family will gather for a viewing at 10:00 am on Tuesday February 10th at St. James Catholic Church at 117 Hudson Ave. in Chatham, NY, to be followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00. Refreshments will be served thereafter in the basement of the church for those wishing to share their stories and memories of Denise. Arrangements have been entrusted to French, Gifford, Preiter & Blasl Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, please feel free to bring school supplies to the service. (This is National School Supplies Week, a cause dear to Denise). Also, a donation St. James Catholic Church is always most deeply appreciated.

View Denise C. Barry's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

02/06/2026

George Rochester, 70, of East Chatham, passed away unexpectedly on January 27, 2026, at Berkshire Medical Center, in Pittsfield. Born on April 20, 1955, in Queens, New York to William and Antoniette (Scurti) Rochester. George was known for his generous spirit, carried through in his profession and personal life. He was a gentle giant, whose kindness left an indelible mark on all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

George started his mechanic journey at Chatham Motors in Chatham in his early years, and then went on to work at several other mechanic jobs. On May 1, 1992, George took a momentous step in his career by opening Hi-Tech Automotive in Rensselaer, This year he was looking forward to his 34th year in business, with his one and only tech, and friend, Gary Tibbets. Through his skilled hands he not only serviced generations of families' automobiles, but also maintained the vehicles of local police and public service, showing profound dedication to his community.

Outside of his career, George embraced life. He enjoyed snowmobiling adventures with his beloved companion, Bridget Shaw, whom he cherished deeply. Only recently, the couple had returned from an amazing snowmobiling trip in Yellowstone National Park, highlighting his zest for life and love for adventure. His other interests besides snowmobiling, included, his passion for collecting classic cars, riding side by sides in the adirondacks with his friends , building the biggest bonefires he could make at his 2nd home in the Adirondack Park, attending auctions, participating in raffles, indulging in scratch-off games, and visiting Las Vegas, where he relished the vibrant atmosphere.

George’s family was a source of immense pride and joy. He is survived by his companion, Bridget Shaw, son and daughter-in-law Daniel (Christina) Harrigan, and his grandchildren: Emma & Ethan Smith, Hannah Harrigan. He held special affection for his family, which included Keith Shaw, who he loved like a second father, along with his brother-in-law Chris (Donna) Shaw, nephews Nicholas and Dylan Shaw, brother in law, Brian (Tammy) Shaw, nephew Josh. Also survived by his step daughters, Abby Mason, grandson Legend, and Melinda (Chris) Kerner, grandsons Ben and Christopher Kerner, and a multitude of nieces, nephews, and cousins. His beloved Boston Terrier, Sadie, also brought much happiness to his life.

He was predeceased by his parents, William and Antoniette (Scurti) Rochester, His first wife Joyce Mason, his stepson William Mason, and his siblings William, David, and Michael Rochester, along with his sisters Theresa Rochester -Alread and Leilah Geist.

Services will be held privately in the springtime. Arrangements have been entrusted to the French, Gifford, Preiter & Blasl Funeral Home, Chatham.

Memorial donations may be made to the Chatham Rescue Squad, PO Box 352, Chatham, NY 12037.

https://www.frenchblasl.com/obituaries/george-rochester