Henry W. Croteau Jr.

Henry W. “Hank” Croteau Jr., a devoted husband, veteran, and pillar of his community, passed away peacefully on June 26, 2025, just days after celebrating his 94th birthday. Born in Troy, New York, on June 22, 1931, Hank was the son of Henry W. Croteau Sr. and Nannie Laura Breedlove. The Croteau family eventually made their home in Claverack in 1937. A bright and driven young man, Hank graduated from Roeliff Jansen High School in 1948 at the age of 17.

With a deep sense of duty and patriotism, Hank joined the United States Navy in 1948 with the blessing of his parents. He completed training at the Electrician’s Mate “C” School in Great Lakes, Illinois, and was later stationed in New London, Connecticut, where he was assigned to the USS Petrel (ASR-14). He proudly served aboard the Petrel during the Korean War while it was homeported in Key West, Florida.

After his honorable discharge in 1952, Hank returned to Hudson, NY, and began working at Sam’s Radio Shop as a television repairman before launching his own business. His broad knowledge and skill in plumbing, heating, and electrical work led to a long and successful career with the New York State Parks Department. Beginning in July 1961 as a general mechanic, he rose through the ranks and retired in July 1988 as Region Supervisor of Park Maintenance for the Taconic Region.

On April 4, 1959, Hank married the love of his life, Beatrice “Babs” Baxter. Their marriage was a true partnership, filled with love, laughter, and unwavering devotion over 65 wonderful years, until Babs’ passing on December 30, 2024.

Hank’s dedication to service extended well beyond his professional life. He was an active and respected member of many civic and fraternal organizations. A proud Mason, Hank served as Master of Hudson Lodge #7 on eight occasions and as District Deputy Grand Master from 1973–1974. He also held leadership roles in the Association of Masons. As a passionate historian and patriot, he served on the board of the New York State Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution, managing their newsletter for 12 years.

Hank gave generously of his time to the Churchtown Volunteer Fire Company, the Roe Jan Young at Heart Association, and the Ox Bow Rod and Gun Club—where his legendary venison chili was always in high demand. For over four decades, he lovingly maintained the buildings and grounds of St. John’s in the Wilderness Episcopal Church in Copake Falls.

A proud veteran, Hank was an active member of American Legion Post 184 in Hudson, where he contributed to the newsletter and participated in ceremonial duties as part of the Firing Squad. One of his proudest contributions was designing a special float to ensure that less-mobile veterans could still take part in local parades and ceremonies—a true testament to his thoughtfulness and commitment to honoring others.

Hank was preceded in death by his beloved wife Babs, his parents, his brother-in-law Ralph Avery, and his brother- and sister-in-law Henri and Jennie Baxter.

He leaves behind a loving family including his sister Dorothy Avery and his nieces and nephews: Judy Snow, Nancy O’Day, Keith Avery, Sarah Baxter, and Richard and Ruth Baxter. His legacy of integrity, service, and kindness lives on through them and the many lives he touched.

A time for sharing memories and offering condolences will be on Wednesday evening, July 9, 2025 from 4:00 to 7:00pm at Peck & Peck Funeral Homes, 8063 Route 22, Copake. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, July 10, 2025 at 11:00am from St. John’s in the Wilderness Episcopal Church in Copake Falls, NY. Interment will follow in St. John’s in the Wilderness Cemetery. Donations can be made in Hank’s honor to Catholic Charities.