Obituary of Hon. Howard M. Stettinger

The Honorable Howard M. Stettinger, 82, of Sprakers, passed away peacefully on Monday, April 17, 2017 at St. Mary's Hospital surrounded by his loving family. Born on October 29, 1934 in Amityville, New York, a son of the late Frederick and Alice Sammis Stettinger. Howard graduated from West Islip High School, Class of 1950. He was a proud combat Veteran of the United States Army, serving his country during the Korean War. Howard was known to be the owner and entrepreneur of various small businesses in the area; Howard's Tire Shop in Canajoharie for many years, as well as a self employed trucker for over 50 years are just a few. Howard was also the town supervisor for Charleston and was the town of Charleston Judge for 8 years. He was a member of the Fonda VFW Post 942 and was a previous member of Charleston Fire Dept. Howard loved to go with his daughter on metal detecting adventures and he also loved to wood work; making shelves, spice racks and various items for his children. He was a loving husband, father, brother, grandfather and friend; he will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Survivors include his beloved wife, Laura Berretta Stettinger; 5 loving daughter, Marjorie Bowley (Shane), Marion Glionna (Bill), Laura Lee Hernigle (Randy), Lisa Horton (Sanford) and Alice Polukort (Tom); sisters, Evelyn, Margaret and Pauline, 11 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren; his Godson, John Wilson (Carol). Several nieces, nephews and cousins also survive. Howard was predeceased by 2 brothers, Frederick and Edward; as well as 5 sisters, Edna, Alice, Mary, Laura and Theresa. A memorial service for Howard will be held on Friday, April 21, 2017 at 1 pm with Dr. Rev. R.W. Williams officiating concluding with military honors at Jackson & Betz Funeral Home, 15 Main Street, Fultonville. The family will receive relatives and friends prior to the service from 11am until 1pm at the funeral home. A gathering will be held at Howard's daughter's house, Lisa Horton, following immediately after the service. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made in Howard's name to Leatherstocking Honor Flight, P.O. Box 621, Cobleskill, NY, 12043. Please visit the family's online guestbook at www.brbsfuneral.com.