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.