Walter Ronald Startup

Walter Ronald Startup, 78, a beloved resident of Kerhonkson, NY, passed away on October 30, 2025, surrounded by his cherished loved ones. Born on August 17, 1947, in Ellenville, NY, to Jewel Walter Startup and Josephine (Smith) Startup, he was affectionately known as “Buster” to his sister Elizabeth “Bettie” (Startup) Terwilliger. He was the older brother to Alan I. Startup and the late Westley Startup.

A proud veteran, Walter was drafted into the United States Army in 1966, serving until his honorable discharge in 1968. Shortly after his service, Walter began a career at V.A.W., in Ellenville, NY, where he remained through the end of its days as Hydro Aluminum. In retirement, Walter enjoyed working as security at Rondout Valley Campground, alongside one of his daughters and one of his grandsons, where they spent their summer days together. He could be seen riding around the grounds in his golf cart, greeting campers with his warm smile and a good chat, ensuring they were all safe and comfortable during their stay.

Walter’s proudest accomplishment in life, however, was not his service or his long career, but his children, grandchildren, and great-granddaughters. A quiet but mighty man, Walter taught them more through action than spoken word, exemplifying selfless kindness, hard work, and generosity. He showed them how to be strong members of their community through his acts of service, always ready to lend a helping hand and volunteering whenever possible. He coached for the Indian Valley Little League for several years, enjoying time with his sons, was a member of Ellenville Elks Lodge BPOE 1971 for some time, and later in life became a member of the American Legion Post 1748, in Lake Katrine, NY. A favorite amongst his volunteer positions was joining the Kerhonkson-Accord First Aid Squad in 2002 as a driver, EMT, and later as Lieutenant, serving until his departure in 2016. He cherished that time, getting to share it with his son and son-in-law.

For Walter, family was everything. He always found a way---and a reason---to be surrounded by them, enjoying good laughs and a fine spread of his favorite foods. Whether it was a holiday, a boxing match, a baseball game, or simply a Friday night of his famous spaghetti and watching Cops, he could be found sitting at his place at the table, taking in all the beautiful music he created in the people he loved unconditionally. In the smile on his face and his loving gaze you could feel just how much he loved his family. Getting to watch his great-granddaughters grow was an honor that filled him a joy like no other. His favorite moments were snuggling them and sharing snacks, especially cookies and ice cream. Walter also found joy in fishing, golfing, hunting, and bowling, spending many years at the Shawangunk Lanes, HoeBowl on the Hill, and Mid-City Lanes on league teams. He was very proud of the night he bowled his 300.

In his later years, Walter found renewed happiness building a beautiful relationship with his partner, Onnolee Decker. Together for thirteen years, they shared many adventures and hosted countless family dinners and holiday gatherings. Two people who each experienced deep heartbreak through untimely loss, they became one another’s shoulder and sunshine, lighting up at the sight of each other.

Walter lived a life of remarkable strength and resilience. No matter the adversity he faced, he never hardened or lost his zest for life. He was the epitome of growing in the rain and reaching for the sun and found purpose in creating such magic in the traditions he kept for his family. His strength, kindness, warmth, love, and traditions will live on in the generations to come.

In addition to his sister, brother and partner, Walter is survived by his daughter Joy K. Startup of Ellenville, NY; daughter Jodi Robbins and her husband, Tom, of Kerhonkson, NY; and son Justin Startup and his partner, Clarice, of Kerhonkson, NY. His legacy stands strong in his grandchildren and great-granddaughters---the absolute lights of his life: Justine and Angelo DeJesus, Alfredo and Matthew Bonilla, Adiana Santiago, Austin Robbins, Katherine Rosa, Zackery Robbins, Aidan McNally, Justin Startup Jr, and Isabelle, Sophia, Aria, and Carmelina DeJesus. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends, including his Goddaughter, Pam Wyant.

Walter was predeceased by his son, Walter Jayson “Jay” Startup, whom he deeply missed for the last twelve years of his life. Great comfort is taken in knowing they are reunited in eternal peace.

graveside services will be announced at a later date.