Obituary of James E. Maher Jr.

James (Jim) E. Maher Jr., of Poughkeepsie, NY, passed away April 17, 2024 at the age of 66.

Jim was born June 26, 1957 in Waterloo, NY. He was known to be adventurous and mischievous; just ask his five siblings. He was proud to tell us how his Cross Country Team made the Waterloo High School Hall of Fame. After graduating with his Associate’s Degree at SUNY Morrisville, Jim entered the trades as a roofer. It was here that he met a group of lifelong friends. Those early years of friendship were some of his most wild times, and we loved to hear him tell us these stories late at night around the fire together.

Jim was blessed with a large and loving family. He met his wife to be, Karen (Witczak), at a party with mutual friends in 1988, and they both say the connection was immediate. By March of 1990, they were already engaged, married, and had their first child. Their marriage lasted 34 years (in this lifetime) and wasblessed with three incredible children and two beautiful grandchildren. Jim’s quick wit and nonstop puns brought humor and light across the years. By far, he was the family’s grill master and never missed a beat when it came to grilling a great steak. Once dinner was over, Jim enjoyed watching westerns in his “command center”. Jim passed along his passion and respect of the outdoors to his children and grandchildren, often going for walks in the woods, hunting, fishing, ice fishing, and birdwatching together. Jim’s new grandchildren brought him immense joy and happiness; their presence in his life filled his heart with love beyond measure. The family unanimously agrees that we’ve had our best times together in this last chapter. With appreciation to Jim, we know his love and dedication to our family will carry us forward as we continue to grow.

Jim took his role as big brother seriously and was the backbone of his siblings. It is impossible to measure the depth of love he had for them. Jim enjoyed planning and attending multiple family events throughout the year such as hosting his annual St Patrick’s Day Party (we will all miss his corned beef) and attending the yearly Turkey and Shrimpuary parties. Jim will most certainly be continuing these parties in Heaven with his beloved predeceased “puppy dog” Cammo. His “gee” (signature proud large smile) is forever etched into all our hearts and minds.

Jim enjoyed life to the fullest. Friends were an important part of his days. Whether at the local pub, golf tournaments, or hunt club picnics, he genuinely formed deep and lasting connections. He looked forward to spending time at the cabin in Schroon Lake as often as he could - especially the annual guys ice fishing trip each winter. He was always there for his friends; likewise, his friends were always there for him. Music surrounded Jim, and his love of music spanned genres and artists. His impression of Bob Dylan was impeccable, and we will forever listen to Alice’s Restaurant each and every Thanksgiving. Like most music lovers, he couldn't help himself but dance. Every time he heard specific songs, he could be seen up and grooving. 

Being involved in his community was very important to Jim. As a son of a veteran, Jim was a proud founding member of the Sons of the American Legion, Post 662 in New Holland, PA. In Poughkeepsie, Jim was an active, enthusiastic member of the American Legion Post 1302, Elks Lodge 275, Manchester Hunt Club, and the Whortlekill Rod and Gun Club. Jim could always be counted on to help with barbecuing, trap shooting, raffles, running food at the annual fish fry or clambake, facilitating the hunting cabin committee, or coordinating volunteers for committee work. For decades, Jim worked very, very hard to build and succeed in his business, Hudson Valley Improvements. He was a master of his trade and had many returning customers due to his dedication and skill.

Jim was predeceased by his father, James E. Maher Sr., and mother, Carolee Rieger. He is survived by his wife and soulmate, Karen; his daughters Melissa Stupell (husband Todd) and Katelyn Hummel (husband Chris); his son James Maher (wife Danielle); his two grandchildren Sigrid Stupell and Penelope Hummel; his sisters Karen and Kim Maher; his brothers Pat, Mike, and Tom Maher; and numerous nieces, nephew, cousins, family, and years and years of deep and loyal friendships.

Jim’s visiting hours will be held at Timothy P. Doyle Funeral Home, 371 Hooker Avenue, Poughkeepsie, NY, on Thursday 4/25/24 from 5pm-8pm. His funeral mass will be held at Holy Trinity Church, 775 Main Street, Poughkeepsie, NY, on Friday 4/26/24 at 10am.