Donald Joseph Suttlehan

October 6, 1936 ~ June 10, 2026

A LIFE WELL-LIVED

Surrounded by family, Donald J. Suttlehan, passed away peacefully in his home on Wednesday, June 10, 2026. Born in Bronx, NY to Laurence Suttlehan and Rose Suttlehan nee Moore, Donald attended All Hallows High School and Iona College. He entered the Marine Reserves at the age of 17 and proudly served for eight years. Donald tragically lost his only sibling, Major Laurence C. Suttlehan, in 1967 during the Vietnam War.

Donald began his law enforcement career with the New York State Troopers in 1958. He met his bride-to-be, Gay Ann Valenti, in 1959, and for the next year, commuted from his station in Orange County to Mount Vernon to be with her on his days off. Gay Ann and Donald married in September 1960 and relocated to Newburgh, NY, and later New Windsor, to begin their life of almost 63 years together. Four children, eight grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren - their lives flourished in fun and fullness.

After serving 20 years as a State Trooper and retiring at the rank of Sergeant, Donald changed careers when he and his wife became owners of Henry Muthig Bus Company, providing transportation to the community for four years. During these years, he was elected as Town Justice of New Windsor and served for almost thirty years, from 1980 to 2009.

In his “free” time, Donald served his church at St. Joseph of New Windsor in various capacities. As an active member of the community, he was Commander of The Catholic War Veterans and President of The Ancient Order of Hibernians.

Donald enjoyed golf, Guiness, and a bit of gambling. An anticipated full moon usually meant a trip to the casino or a few scratch-offs at the very least. Summer team line-ups were at his fingertips, bouncing between the Yankees, Mets, and the PGA. To our surprise, he was an unbeatable chess player. His travel days with his spouse and good friends led to grateful times about which he would later reminisce.

Predeceased by his parents, brother, and spouse, Donald is survived by his children Michael (Nancy) Suttlehan, Kevin (Sue) Suttlehan, Debra (Henry) Chartoff, and Jacqueline Suttlehan. Grandchildren include Meghan Suttlehan, Kaitlyn (Jorge) Ramos, Michael Suttlehan, Caroline Suttlehan, Liam (Jill) Suttlehan, Aidan Suttlehan, Rebecca Chartoff, Benjamin (Mollie) Chartoff and great-grandchildren Arrianna, Meadow, Georgie and Norah.

A life well-lived, Donald will be missed and uniquely remembered. His true admiration and deep respect for the men and women in uniform, be it first responders or military, along with his faith and love for family, embodies what he placed at his highest regard. Donald now joins Gay Ann, with many family and friends, dancing to “Sweet Caroline”.

A visitation will be held on Sunday, June 14th from 2:00pm-5:00pm at Brooks Funeral Home located at 481 Gidney Avenue, Newburgh, NY

A Mass of the Christian burial will be held at St. Thomas of Canterbury Church at 11:00am on Monday, June 15th located at 340 Hudson Street, Cornwall on Hudson, NY 

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Gary Sinise Foundation or donate to Shriners Children's or the charity of your choice. 

Thank you!