Visitation and services to be held in Cold Spring

Bernard Joseph Smelter Jr., 83, of Garrison, died Tuesday, May 27, 2014, at the Westchester Medical Center in Valhalla, New York. Born in Peekskill, New York, on December 14, 1930, he was the son of the late Bernard J. and Anna (Morgan) Smelter Sr. He is survived by his wife Katherine (Vafakas) Smelter.

Bernie, as he was known to family and friends, was a lifelong Cold Spring/Garrison area resident where he lived and raised his family. After receiving his education from New York University he taught Industrial Arts for the Mahopac School District, retiring in 1988. His passion was the outdoors, nature and the environment. He loved hunting, fishing and working with wood. He always looked forward to the time he spent with his friends at Joe Indian in New York. Bernie was active in many local activities including the Garrison Fish and Game Club where he was one of the founding members and a past board member. He also served as board member emeritus of the Cat Fish Pond Association and was a member of the Cold Spring Boat Club.

Survivors in addition to his wife Katherine include three daughters, Christine Smelter of Garrison, Elizabeth (James) Dougherty of New Hampshire, and Emily Kelley of Vermont; one brother Harold Smelter of Port St. Lucie, Florida. Three grandchildren, three great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews also survive.

Predeceasing him where two sisters, Jean Sinapi and Elaine Robinson.

A private cremation has taken place at Ferncliff Crematory. Memorial services will take place at the Clinton Funeral Home, Corner of Parrott and Pine Streets (21 Parrott St.), Cold Spring, NY 10516, at 11 a.m. on Friday, June 6, 2014. Interment will follow in the Cold Spring Cemetery. Friends are invited to call from 5 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, June 5, at the Clinton Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made in Mr. Smelter’s name to the American Cancer Society at Cancer.org or Friends of Karen at friendsofkaren.org.

Behind The Story

Type: Obituary

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2 replies on “Bernard Smelter (1930–2014)”

  1. A true gentleman and an exceptional outdoorsman. His work as a conservationist will be his lasting monument.

  2. “Mr.Smelter” was one of the good guys at MHS. He was always there for the students. Fond memories of him as my track coach. Condolences to his family.

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