Michael R. Carey of Highland Mills passed away at his home on Aug. 16, 2023. He was 64 years old.
The son of Beverly (Xiques) and Joseph Carey, he was born on Sept, 1, 1958, in Mt. Vernon.
Michael graduated from North Rockland High School in Thiells. He excelled in both Varsity Football, where he was recognized for Outstanding Sportsmanship, and in Varsity Wrestling, winning several Titles and recognitions.
He attended Westchester Community College and Mercy College for his bachelor of sciences degrees in Biology and Chemistry.
He previously worked at Westchester Community College teaching Human Anatomy and Physiology before pursuing an advanced degree in MRI Technology. He was most recently employed at the Newburgh Enlarged City School District with the Security Department among his much esteemed colleagues.
He was a member of Saint Patrick’s Church, a former member of the AOH Division in Monroe and a former volunteer for the Central Valley Firehouse. He also was an avid member of Bolenbach’s Gym, in Monroe.
Michael is best known, however, for his kindness, selflessness and generosity in both deed and interactions. He was a force of goodwill and a friend to all, giving everything he had to his family, friends, and anyone in need. He had a smile and kind words for everyone, and everyone soon became a friend and fan.
Most recently, Michael took on the role of Greatest Uncle Ever to his 19 nieces and nephews. No obstacle was too big to overcome; he always did anything in his power to help them. He embodied love, patience, humor and a sense of wonder and adventure to his beloved nieces and nephews and grand-nephew.
Legends are made from the acts of great men, and Michael was and is a legend to all lucky enough to know him, especially those lucky enough to love and be loved by him.
Michael is survived by his siblings: Raymond Carey and his wife Cheryl, Brett Carey and his wife Elizabeth, Brian Carey and his wife Paulette, Matthew Carey and his wife Katherine, Peggy Carey, Leighann Incledon and her husband Paul, and Noell Bushey and her husband Michael; his nieces and nephews: Brittany, Nicholas, Tara, Samantha, Erin, Catherine, Grace, Patrick, Raymond, James, Michael, Brendan, Claire, Mariah, Megan, Colin, Gavin, Devin, and Zachary; and by his grand-nephew Callan.
Michael was predeceased by his parents Joseph and Beverly Carey.
A Funeral Mass was celebrated Aug. 23 at St. Patrick’s Church, 26 Hunter St., Highland Mills. Interment followed at Cemetery of the Highlands in Highland Mills.
Cremation took place at Cedar Hill Crematory in Middle Hope.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Michael’s name to DELTA Animal Rescue, P.O. Box 9, Glendale, California 91209 (www.deltarescue.org).
Friends and family are invited to a repass to honor Michael from 2 to 8 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 23, at the Knights of Columbus Hall in Washingtonville.
Arrangements by Smith, Seaman & Quackenbush, Inc. Funeral Home (845-782-8185 www.ssqfuneralhome.com).