Obituary of Eugene Robert Knudsen, Sr.

Eugene Robert Knudsen, Sr.
Pine Bush, NY

Eugene Robert Knudsen, Sr., 94, peacefully passed away at home on September 23, 2024.  He was a 24-year resident of  Pine Bush, New York and a parishioner of  the Church of the Infant Saviour in Pine Bush where he was an usher for many years. 

Gene graduated from Saint Francis University in Loretto, Pennsylvania earning a degree in Education.  In 1953, he was then drafted into the US Army and served in the Korean War.  After an honorable discharge, he taught for 2 years at Power Memorial High School in the Bronx.

On August 18, 1956 Gene married his beloved wife, Patricia Ann Delaney, who survives him at home.  Together, they founded Camp War Bonnet in Cannan, New Hampshire as a summer retreat for young campers.

After teaching for several years at Valhalla High School, he then transferred to Byram Hills High School in Armonk New York and was appointed chair of the Math Dept.  While at Byram Hills he coached several sports including Varsity Baseball, leading the team to the Section 1 Championship in 1970.

While residing in Somers, New York he was an active member of the Somers Volunteer Fire Dept. and an EMT for 20 years.  He also loved to build various projects around the house.

Upon retiring from Byram Hills H.S., Gene and Pat moved to Savannah, Georgia where Gene enjoyed playing golf nearly every day and also volunteered at the Bethesda Boys’ Home tutoring and mentoring.

His family was so important to him. Gene leaves behind his beloved wife, Pat of 68 years, his son Gene (Mary Jean) Knudsen, his daughter, Ginger (Jeff) Madera, grandchildren, Brian (Caroline) Knudsen, Kevin (Alyssa) Knudsen, Gregory Knudsen, Jonathan Madera and Jenna Madera, Deanna (Aaron) Nahs, Tony DeLaura as well as great grandchildren, Alex and Lily Knudsen and Riley Nahs. He was predeceased by his daughter Elizabeth.

Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, September 28, 2024 at 1 PM at the Church of the Infant Saviour, Pine Bush, New York.  Burial will follow at New Paltz Rural Cemetery, 81 Plains Road, New Paltz, New York.  To leave an online condolence, please visit www.wmgaganfuneralhome.com.