02/14/2026
Jack represented the very best of volunteer service: dedication, humility, and an unwavering commitment to his community. For years, he stood ready to answer the call, serving not for recognition, but because he cared deeply about the people of Kerhonkson and the surrounding area.
Those of us in emergency services know that the firehouse is more than a building… it is family. Jack was part of that family, and his presence, wisdom, and steady commitment will be deeply missed not only within the Fire Department, but throughout our entire public-safety community.
On behalf of all who have had the privilege of serving alongside our brothers and sisters at Kerhonkson Fire Department, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Jack’s family, friends, and fellow firefighters. We are grateful for his years of service and the legacy he leaves behind.
May he rest easy. His watch has ended, but his impact will not be forgotten.
John (Jack) Kissel
John James Kissel Jr. (“Jack” or “Moose”)
June 22, 1943 – January 25, 2026
It is with profound sorrow, we announce the peaceful passing of John James Kissel Jr., lovingly known as “Jack” or, to some, “Moose” (After his brother Stanley). Jack, a man of remarkable humility, profound talent, and boundless generosity, touched countless lives and left an enduring legacy of kindness and selfless service.
Born in Newburgh, New York, on June 22, 1943, and raised in New Windsor—better known as “Ducktown”—Jack was the middle child of four: older brothers Paul and Stanley, and younger sister Joanie. He made Cragsmoor his lifelong home, living contentedly in his own beloved log cabin, where he stood as a beacon of quiet strength, wisdom, and inspiration for family, friends, and the entire community. A true people person, Jack had a gift for connecting with everyone—his warm smile and genuine interest drew people in, making strangers feel like old friends in moments.
Jack pursued his passion for design, earning a degree in architecture from a university in Indiana. He began his career at an architecture firm in Liberty, New York, before dedicating himself to public service as a building inspector for the Town of Wawarsing in Ellenville. His expertise and unwavering commitment to safety shaped the region's development for decades.
In the late 1960s, Jack married Marianne, his best friend's sister. Their partnership exemplified true companionship and love; though their marriage later ended in divorce, they preserved a deep, enduring friendship rooted in mutual respect and cherished history.
The fire department was truly Jack's life and passion. His extraordinary 56-year tenure with the Cragsmoor Volunteer Fire Company—where he served with distinction as Past Chief, Past President, and Past Chairman of the Board of Fire Commissioners—was matched by his dedication to the New Windsor Fire Department, Walker Valley Station 2, Ulster County Volunteer Firemen's Association, Hudson Valley VFA, and Firefighters Association of the State of New York (FASNY).
He mentored young firefighters, offered sage advice on firematic matters, and infused every effort with his signature humor, calm assurance, and infectious enthusiasm—fostering unbreakable bonds across generations. His extensive collection of fire trucks (a cherished hobby) reflected just how deeply this calling ran through him. In a final act of generosity, Jack donated a real antique 1947 Federal fire truck to the Cragsmoor Fire company in 2025, just in time for their 75th anniversary celebrations. He took great joy in watching his firefighter brothers pull it from his garage, restore it, and prepare it for display in the parade—seeing a piece of their shared history come alive once more.
To those who knew him, Jack was simply the greatest: a humble mentor who shared life-changing lessons, a steadfast friend who brought joy to every day, and a beloved family member who wove a tapestry of treasured memories. His gentle kindness extended everywhere—from hospital rooms where he lifted spirits, to firehouses filled with camaraderie, to homes warmed by his presence.
Jack passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 25, 2026, at a hospital in Kingston, New York, with his beloved niece Mia Kissel holding his hand and John Stanger a dear friend standing by.
He is survived by his cherished cousin Susan Smith; he leaves behind many devoted nephews and nieces, Steve Kissel and Dijon Bl**er of California, Jim Kissel, Zoe Kissel, Valerie Bell, Charles May, Keith May of New York and his biggest admirer, Mia Kissel, whom he served as a steadfast father figure after the passing of his brother Paul when Mia was young, forging an especially deep and loving bond. Which many people knew by how often he spoke of her. Mia reveres him as the best uncle a girl could have. Despite the distance between California and New York, Jack was an unwavering father figure to his niece there—sharing countless phone calls (often two or three times a week during childhood), hosting joyful school holiday visits to New York, or traveling west himself. They had a blast together; he knew all the friends, and everyone affectionately called him Uncle Jack. His extended fire service family and the entire Cragsmoor community also mourn his loss.
Jack has been reunited with his beloved parents, Valoria Petronella Mukutis Kissel and John James Kissel; his cherished siblings, Paul John Kissel Sr. (Mia's father), Stanley Kissel, and Joan V. May; he was also predeceased by his dear nephew, Paul Kissel Jr.
A visitation will be held on Sunday, February 8th, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM with a fire Matic service taking place at 6:30PM at Loucks Funeral Home 79 N. Main St in Ellenville.
Burial will follow on Monday, February 9th, with a graveside service by Father Ken Riello at 10:30 AM at Saint Francis Cemetery 130 Union Ave in New Windsor, New York.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the Cragsmoor Volunteer Fire Company in Jack's memory.
Rest in eternal peace, Uncle Jack. Your spirit lives on in our hearts, and your memory will never fade.
