Honor Howard R. Relyea

Senate Resolution No. 4124 BY: Senator LARKIN MOURNING the death of Howard R. Relyea, distinguished citizen and devoted member of his community WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to pay tribute to citizens of the State of New York whose lifework and civic endeavor served to enhance the quality of life in their communities and the great State of New York; and WHEREAS, Howard Robert Relyea died on Saturday, February 24, 2018, at the age of 59; and WHEREAS, Born on April 30, 1958, Howard "Howie" Relyea was employed with the Department of Highways and Bridges in Ulster County for 30 years; and WHEREAS, Howard R. Relyea distinguished himself in his profession and by his sincere dedication and substantial contribution to the welfare of his community; and WHEREAS, He was a garage foreman in Plattekill, New York, when he retired to enjoy time with his wife and two beloved dogs; he found peace being in the woods, watching wild life, smelling the fresh air, and seeing the sunrise with his ever-present coffee in hand; and WHEREAS, An avid deer hunter, Howard R. Relyea liked to smoke his own meat, and make his own sausage, and jerky; he was the household chef, who could throw anything together and make fantastic meals; his pastrami and stews were favorites among family and co-workers; and WHEREAS, Howard R. Relyea was a generous man who donated sizeable amounts of his game to charity; he was interested in historical weapons, guns and knives, and being mechanically inclined, he loved to ride his motorcycle and go four wheeling; and WHEREAS, Predeceased by his brother, Charles, Howard R. Relyea is survived by his wife of thirty six years, Lisa; two children, Amber and Travis; and three grandchildren, Perpetua, Elijah and Aurelia, all of whom he adored and who brought him immense happiness; he is also survived by his three sisters, Gail, Linda, and Barbara; and one brother, John; as well as many nieces, nephews and extended family members; and WHEREAS, Armed with a humanistic spirit and imbued with a sense of compassion, Howard R. Relyea leaves behind a legacy which will long endure the passage of time and will remain as a comforting memory to all he served and befriended; he will be deeply missed and truly merits the grateful tribute of this Legislative Body; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to mourn the death of Howard R. Relyea, distinguished citizen and devoted member of his community; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to the family of Howard R. Relyea.