Frederick G. "Fred" Gaines

SAUGERTIES -  Frederick G. "Fred"  Gaines, 73, of Brook Rd. died Sunday, at Golden Hill Rehab, on December 15, 2024 after a lengthy illness.  Born July 14, 1951 in White Plains he was the son of the late Robert and Lois Gaines.   A Saugerties resident for many years. He was a graduate of Nyack High School and attended Forest Ranger School at the University in Wanakena, N.Y. He was employed by the NYS Thruway for over 36 years, holding many position. He began his career in West Nyack, then Newburgh and finally in Catskill where he retired as a supervisor. After retirement he went into business with Mark Spinner doing home renovation for approximately 10 years.

Fred was active in the community coaching both girls softball and soccer for many years while his daughter, Jennie Marie Gaines participated. His passions were hosting pig roasts, spending time with family and friends both at home and on vacations. He loved watching the variety of birds that would frequent his bird feeders.

He was also predeceased by brother-in-law James Tilton Jr. (Kathleen), his mother-in-law: Jennie Marie Tilton and father-in-law: James Albert Tilton

Survivors include his wife, Edith, his grandson Freddy, who he raised after the passing of his daughter Jennie. 5 siblings: Robert Gaines (MaryJo), Kathleen Cantaben (Gary), Jane Augustein (Dean) , Timothy Gaines (Joyce) and Laura Gaines Fromholz (John), and sister-in-law Louise Medici (Richard), and brother-in-law Gary Tilton.

Also surviving are nieces: Kelly Cantaben, Dominique Medici, Gina Medici Trilla (Andrew), Erin Girard (Jon), Shawna Gaines and Claire Ryan. Nephews: Rob Gaines (Heather), Richard Medici (Michelle), Patrick Swift (Rebecca), Kevin Gaines (Hannah Lee), John Fromholz (Rachel),Brian Gaines, Neal Gaines,Christopher Fromholz, and many many great nieces and nephews.

Fred was lighthearted and radiated happiness. He would help anyone out that asked. He was non-judgmental and found the good in everyone he met.

His favorite hangouts were Sue's Restaurant, every Friday night, and his back porch no matter what time of year, listening to music. He'd hear a song on the radio and know the year it was released, the name of the band and title of the song.

Fred was a volunteer with his wife, Edith, who was a member of The Junior League of Kingston’s Habitat for Humanity, home for the millennium project. Countless hours were spent on the rehab.

He loved his family and numerous friends.

We find comfort in the belief that the gate was held open by his daughter Jenn who passed too young and was one of his truest loves.

When it rains/snows after someone dies, it is often interpreted as a symbolic representation of cleansing, renewal, or even a sign that the deceased's spirit is being "washed away" and transitioning to the afterlife, bringing comfort to those grieving; essentially, the rain/snow is seen as a way of "purifying" the departed soul and signifying a new beginning.

Friends will be received from 6:00-8:00 PM at the Seamon-Wilsey Funeral Home, Inc. Cor. of John & Lafayette Sts., Saugerties. His Funeral Service will be held immediately following. Further obituary information will be posted on his Tribute Wall at SeamonWilseyFuneralHome.com

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Samadhi-Recovery Community Outreach Center at 368 Broadway, Kingston, N. Y. 12401

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Frederick G. "Fred" Gaines, please visit our floral store.