John F. Sleight

John F. Sleight, formerly of Brigham Lane, Lake Katrine, NY died Friday, May 14, 2004 at his daughter's home in Housatonic, Mass. He was born in West Orange, NJ on March 20, 1910, a son of the late Scott and Antoinette Roe Sleight. A longtime area resident, in the 1930's he worked at the former Hercules Powder Plant. He then trained to be a plumber and worked for Gerard Matthews Plumbing. For many years Mr. Sleight belonged to Local 21, Plumbers and Steamfitters. He retired in the mid 1970's. A former member of the Dutch Reformed Church of the Comforter, Mr. Sleight was a member of F. & A.M. Rondout Lodge #343. Educated in Kingston, he was an avid swimmer and swam the Hudson River in his youth. He was a motor cycle, bowling and auto mechanic enthusiast. He also enjoyed drinking coffee and spending time with his family. He moved to his daughter's home nine years ago. His wife Ethel Wager Sleight died July 5, 1995. One sister Edna Cole one brother, Fred and his twin brother James all died previously. Surviving are his daughter Sheila Shepardson and her husband Raymond A. Shepardson with whom he lived, one son Jack Sleight of Lake Katrine; five grandchildren Corey D., Darren M. and Erica L. Ernst, Alison M. and Rachel S. Shepardson; three great grandchildren Paul, Eleanor and Easton Ernst; one brother Herbie Sleight of Kingston; several nieces and nephews. There will be calling hours at the Simpson - Gaus Funeral Home, 411 Albany Ave., Kingston on Sunday 6:00 - 8:00 PM. A Memorial Service will be conducted on Monday at 11:00 AM at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Fording Place Lane, Lake Katrine (382-2170.) Friends and family will meet directly at the church just prior to 11:00 AM. Interment will be next to his wife in Fair View Cemetery, Stone Ridge. In his memory, contributions may be made to the Ulster County SPCA, 20 Wiedy Road, Kingston, NY 12401.