John Eino Honkala of New Paltz, passed away Tuesday, June 11, 2024. He was 88.
The son of the late Eino Ilmari Honkala and Helmi Marie Onramaki, he was born May 31, 1936 in Manhattan, NY.
John graduated from OCCC in 1956 and worked as a developing engineer for IBM. After retiring from IBM he became a pumpkin farmer from 1990-2011 as owner of Country Charm Farm. He was an antique dealer for 45 years. John was also an avid gardener and sold to many wholesale houses growing flowers including Alders Wholesale Florist in Campbell Hall. His farm reflects all of his beautiful flowers.
John and his longtime companion Deanne Kimler enjoyed many wonderful years, times and trips together.
He was the widower of Dorothy Klein Honkala.
Survivors include his daughter Dee Anne Gillespie and her husband Andy of Alabama, sister Nancy Honkala Williams of Georgia, brother Richard Honkala & wife Maria of Vermont,
granddaughters Emily and Katie, longtime companion Deanne Kimler, and her family Frank Kimler, Jay and Kelly Kimler and Kalyn and Justin Bard and her five wonderful grandchildren Deanne shared with John.
Along with his parents, he was predeceased by his brother-in-law Larry
Cremation will take place privately.
Memorial contributions can be made in John’s name to The Walden Humane Society, National Audubon Society or Hudson Valley Honor Flight.
A Celebration of Life service will be held at a later date.
Arrangements were made by Millspaugh Funeral Directors.
For directions or condolences please visit millspaughfuneralhome.com