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Note: Occasionally we learn of the deaths of artists several months or years after their death.
We would still like to make sure their passing is noted for fans who may still remember them.
Frederick James Mekeel, 85 of Hopewell Junction, NY, died Friday, December 11, 2009 at
Vassar Brothers Medical Center. Born in E. Fishkill on July 19, 1924, he
was the son of James and Alice Horton Mekeel.
Mr. Mekeel attended Beacon High School and SUNY at New Paltz. He served his
country during WW-II with the US Army and was the recipient of several battle stars
and good conduct medals.
He began his career in the maintenance department with The Harold Tribune Fresh
Air Fund in Fishkill and met his wife while employed there.
On November 7, 1964 in Danbury,CT., he married Willa Edmundson.
He later was employed by Merritt Brooklands in Fishkill.
Mr. Mekeel was a talented self taught musician who played both the fiddle and guitar.
He was the lead member of the Fred Mack Echo Valley Rangers, a country band which played
throughout the Hudson Valley. He was a member of American Federation of Musicians.
In addition to his wife Willa who resides at home, Mr. Mekeel is survived by his two
daughters; Sharon Fischer and her husband George of Clinton Corners, and Donna Benjamin
and her husband Jim of Fenton,MO.; his 8 grandchildren, Renee Holmes
of Tampa,FL., Erica Meise of Hopewell Jct., George Fischer of Kennesaw,GA.,
Laura, Pam, and Charles Benjamin , all of Missouri, James David Mekeel of
Wappingers Falls, and Diana Rabidou of Malone,NY.; and his 10 great grandchildren.
He was predeceased by his son Frederick James Mekeel Jr.
Visitation was Tuesday 1-5 pm at Robert H. Auchmoody Funeral Home, 900 Rt. 82, Hopewell Junction.
Interment will be in Fishkill Rural Cemetery.
Memorial donations may be made in Freds
memory to Dutchess County ASPCA.
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