Michael J. VanVoorhis
- Aug 7, 2025
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 20, 2025
1959 - 2025
OBITUARY
Michael John VanVoorhis, lovingly known to many as “Mikey V,” passed away on August 7, 2025, at Hudson Valley Hospital, surrounded by those who loved him most. He was 66 years old.
Born on June 30, 1959, Michael was the son of the late John “Jack” and Virginia Hoyt VanVoorhis, and the beloved stepson of Dorothy “Dot” Hughes VanVoorhis, who held a special place in his heart. He was a cherished brother to John (Gloria), Robert (Linda), Karen, Lynn (Tom), Raymond (Janice), and Patrick (Martha).
A proud lifelong resident of the Hudson Valley, Michael graduated from Roy C. Ketcham High School and treasured his memories of growing up in the Village—playing football, basketball, baseball, and skating on the frozen creek to play hockey with friends.
Michael began his career as a Corrections Officer with the NYS Department of Corrections, but his hands-on spirit and tireless work ethic led him into construction, eventually owning his own business as a self-employed contractor. There truly wasn’t anything he couldn’t fix—or at least try to—with a confident, “I got this.” Known for both his skill and his generous heart, Michael could never say “no” when someone needed help.
He was a proud and devoted member of the Knights of Columbus Council #1646, where he poured his heart into countless events—especially those involving food. Cooking for others brought him joy, and it was through the Knights that he found a true sense of community. Michael held the esteemed role of Grand Knight and also served as President of the Columbus Club—positions that reflected his leadership, generosity, and deep care for others. In 2022, he was honored at the K of C Golf Tournament for his years of dedicated service and heartfelt commitment. His brother Knights, along with the Ladies Auxiliary, became a second family to him.
Michael had a one-of-a-kind personality. A diehard Yankees and Giants fan, he was so passionate that you might’ve needed to duck if they were losing. He had a booming laugh, a knack for giving everyone a nickname, and a mischievous talent for making ridiculous animal sounds just to make you smile. His storytelling, off-key singing, playful jokes, and ability to light up any room made him truly unforgettable.
He was deeply loved by his daughters, Dianna VanVoorhis (partner John Battista) and Nicole Gopel (husband Corey Gopel), who will forever carry his humor, strength, and spirit with them. He was the adoring and deeply adored “Grumpa” to his grandchildren: Darion Michael Martin, Leianna Marie Martin, and Oliver Michael Gopel—who were the light of his life.
Michael also leaves behind his partner of 15 years, Patricia Costello McNamee, whose love and dedication brought him comfort and joy. He embraced her children—Ryan McNamee, Kate McNamee, and Kelly McNamee Baccomo (husband Dennis Baccomo)—as his own, and was a proud grandfather to Riana McNamee, Gwyneth, Jacob, and Natalie Baccomo, and great-grandfather to Jaxon Caetano.
Michael’s absence leaves an ache in the hearts of so many, including his extended family of cousins, nieces, nephews, and countless friends. His legacy—of laughter, generosity, loyalty, and love—will live on in the stories we share, the jokes we retell, and the memories we hold dear.
May we always hear his voice in our laughter, see his heart in our kindness, and feel his spirit in every warm, funny, and heartfelt moment.
His Family will gather with Friends to celebrate and honor his life on Saturday, August 16, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at the DELEHANTY FUNERAL HOME, 64 East Main Street, Wappingers Falls, New York; where a Prayer Service will be offered at 12:00 Noon. Interment will be private at the discretion of his family.
In lieu of flowers the family wishes for memorial donations to be made to the Knight of Columbus Wappinger Council 1646; 2660 E. Main St, Wappingers Falls, NY 12590.
To offer a message of condolence or share a fond memory, please visit: www.DelehantyFuneral.com
VISITATION:
Saturday, August 16 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Delehanty Funeral Home 64 East Main Street, Wappingers Falls, NY
PRAYER SERVICE:
Saturday, August 16 12:00 PM Delehanty Funeral Home 64 East Main Street, Wappingers Falls, NY
INTERMENT:
Private at the discretion of his family
to Mike's entire family, please accept our heartfelt condolences. We were deeply saddened to hear of Mike's passing. It was always great to see him when he was working with my brother Mike. He was good person and will be missed .Eternal rest be upon him.
— Maryann Weimann Federico & Family
My deepest condolences to the entire family. Mike and I go back close to 60 years. We were compadres on the softball field, and other sporting arenas, we both cooked together for many years at the Knights of Columbus.
Rest in peace my friend.
You will truly be missed by so many ... Sue w
My deepest condolences to Micheal's entire family and his many many freinds. To the Knights of Columbus , I know this is a great loss your fine organization , it will be hard to replace a person of his high caliber and caring. I will miss seeing him at the golf dinners, Fantasy Football and seeing Mike at the yearly Super bowl gatherings ...
he always took the time to come out of the kitchen say hello to all of us , as a member of SWJ Fire company we know we loss a friend. Micheal will forever be missed !
I'm so sorry to hear of Mikey's passing , I'll miss him. He was a good friend with a big heart and never forgot about me when he was cooking Italian , my condolences to the family I'm sorry for your loss. Rest in peace Mikey, God bless. Dave Nenni