Obituary of Michael A. Karchmer

Michael Allen (Mike) Karchmer, 63, a long time resident of Ellenville NY, died on Friday November 4, 2011 at Middletown Park Rehabilitation and Health Center. The son of Ann (Reed) and Irwin Karchmer, he was born in Buffalo NY on May 1, 1948. He was a graduate of Ellenville Central High School and the University of Bridgeport. Despite a life burdened with illness, Michael lived his life with courage, honesty and dignity. He spent years as a sports reporter and photographer for local newspapers including The Ellenville Journal and the Ellenville Press, receiving a plaque from the Ellenville High School Wrestling Team in 1978, acknowledging his devotion to sports writing and local teams. He loved helping others. He worked as a counselor with disadvantage youth and later worked diligently to help clients a Gateway Community Industries, Inc. where he worked for more than 10 years. Mike is survived by his parents, sister Susan, one aunt and many cousins. The family would like to acknowledge the staff at Middletown Park for the care and comfort they provided for Michael during the last years of his life. The memorial service and burial will take place on Monday, November 7 at 11:00 AM at the Temple Rodeph Sholom Cemetery on Otens Road (off of Oak Ridge Road which is off of Route 209) in the Town of Wawarsing. The family will receive guests at 7 Terrie Street, in Ellenville on Monday November 7 and Tuesday November 8 from 7 - 9 PM EST. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Gateway Community Industries, Inc. in Kingston NY or the Michael J. Fox Foundation (MJFF) for Parkinson's Research. Arrangements are under the direction of the Joseph N. Garlick Funeral Home of Ellenville. For additional information please visit www.josephngarlickfuneralhome.com