Laurie Kalanges

Laurie Kalanges, 65 of Pine Plains, left this world on September 22, 2025 at her residence. She was born in Middletown, New York to Thomas Cutler and Mary (Swindell). She graduated from Pine Bush High School and began working. In 1995, she moved to Pine Plains to provide a great life to her children. At that time she also started work at Hipotronics. It was there that she made many of her lifelong friends.

Laurie walked through a life that had more than its fair share of hardship. She carried her journey with a strength that will never be forgotten. She spent decades caring for adults with disabilities at Taconic DDSO. Throughout her career she was extremely devoted and cared for her clients deeply. This also manifested itself in her personal life, in that she also cared deeply for her friends and was very generous. She was also very supportive of her local community and enjoyed doing things in town.

Laurie found joy in the little things, fresh lilacs, a pint of ice cream, a really good book, a good laugh, and anything tie-dye. Music was a large component of her life and brought her much happiness with an upbeat tempo. She also found happiness at the ocean, as well as at Stissing Lake.

Laurie is survived by her loving children Christopher Kalanges, Katey Longo; and her husband, Timothy Longo. As well as her two granddaughters, Charlie and Hayes. She was endlessly proud of her kids, and they shared an unconditional love. Laurie also leaves behind a group of dear friends she considered family, including her longtime friend and housemate Becky, and Becky’s son JT, who shared many years and memories with her. Her truest companion in life was her dog, Nugget, who stayed faithfully by her side for 17 years, until his recent passing. One of her proudest recent milestones was celebrating 16 years of sobriety — a powerful testament to her resilience, grit and determination.

Laurie was predeceased by her parents and brother Thomas “Tommy” Cutler.

Her path was not easy, but her soul is now at peace. We will carry her spirit forward with love.

A celebration of life is being planned for the future and will be announced when plans are finalized. If you see a hummingbird nearby, think of her — now wild and free.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (afsp.org) in Laurie’s honor — to help bring light to others navigating the dark.