Neil McCauley

Neil McCauley, 87, a lifelong resident of Kerhonkson, passed away peacefully at home on August 11, 2026, with his wife Sandra by his side, following a long journey with dementia and a period of declining health.

Born in Jersey City, NJ, Neil was raised in Kerhonkson and attended Kerhonkson School before attending Cardinal Farley Military Academy, where he excelled academically and athletically, particularly in football and track. He graduated in 1956.

Following graduation, Neil worked on the New York City water projects with West Delaware Tunnel Contractors, progressing from laborer and brakeman to motorman and miner. He later worked in construction on the Palisades Parkway and Route 209 and for Consumer’s Oil Services in Kerhonkson.In 1966,

Neil began a 28-year career with IBM in Poughkeepsie. He also worked for approximately 35 years at Humiston’s Funeral Home, initially part-time and later full-time following his retirement from IBM.

Neil was a devoted member of the Kerhonkson community and served the Kerhonkson Fire Company for 51 years. During that time, he held the positions of firefighter, Lieutenant, Captain, Assistant Chief, and Fire Commissioner. His deep connection to the community and the many people he knew throughout the area earned him the affectionate nickname “the Mayor of Kerhonkson.

Neil was known for his strong work ethic, loyalty, kindness, and willingness to help others. He was especially devoted to his family and took great pride in being a husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.

He was the proud father of Denise and Francis and raised Sandra’s daughter Lisa as his own from the time she was three years old. Neil treasured time spent with his family, especially family vacations with his children and grandchildren. He loved taking his grandchildren to local playgrounds and never missed an opportunity to swim with them, no matter how cold the water was.

Neil also enjoyed staying active. He was a longtime member of The Ridge gym in Stone Ridge, ran 5Ks, 10Ks, and half-marathons, and loved hiking with his wife Sandy throughout the Shawangunk and Catskill Mountains, with Minnewaska State Park holding a special place among their hearts.

Neil is survived by his wife Sandra; his children Denise Couser and her husband Steve, Francis McCauley and his wife Kelly, and Lisa LaCouture; his grandchildren Steven Couser and his wife Michelle, Lindsey Hoti and her spouse Celja, Kassidy Roebuck and her husband Logan, Corey McCauley and his wife Delaney, Dylan McCauley and his fiancé Lauren Helton, Sierra Paes, Michael LaCouture, and Madison LaCouture; and his great-grandchildren Leonella, Eloise, Kelly June, Laurel, Callan, and Adelaide.

He is also survived by his brother William “Bill” McCauley and his wife Carla; sister-in-law Dolores McCauley; sister-in-law Judith McPeck; brother-in-law Robert “Bob” Tozzi and his wife Laurie; sister-in-law Brenda Canale; brother-in-law Matthew Ticcony and his wife Catherine; brother-in-law Anthony Cappillino and his wife Frances; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends. Neil was predeceased by his parents, Francis and Eva McCauley; his brother John McCauley and his wife Betty Lou; his brother Larry McCauley; and his brother-in-Law David McPeck.

In keeping with Neil’s wishes, there will be no formal funeral service. Family and friends are invited to a Celebration of Life on Sunday, October 18, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at the Kerhonkson Fire House.Family and friends are encouraged to join together to share memories and celebrate Neil’s life and his many years of dedication to his family, friends, and community.