Gary R. Van Allen

Van Allen, Gary R. KINGSTON Gary Robert Van Allen passed away on August 28, 2016, in Kingston. Mr. Van Allen was born on October 7, 1943, in Wichita Falls, Texas, the son of the late John and Eleanor Van Allen. He graduated from Bethlehem Central High School, Delmar and attended Central University of Iowa. Mr. Van Allen was a proud member of the New York State Police, retiring in 2000 after 32 years of distinguished service. As a uniformed trooper he served in Newburgh, Ferndale, Kingston and at the State Police Academy in Albany. He was assigned to the Bureau of Criminal Investigation with the New York City unit of the Violent Felony Warrants Squad from where he ultimately retired as a Senior Investigator. Mr. Van Allen was a co-founder of the National Association of Fugitive Investigators and in 1997 served as national president. Mr. Van Allen was a life member of V.F.W. Post 1386, and Masonic Lodge 383. He was a member of Cyprus Shrine, the Ulster County Shrine Club, American Legion Post 150, Elks Club 275 Poughkeepsie and the the New York State Troopers P.B.A., as well as the New York State Police Investigators Association. Mr. Van Allen was an avid hunter and fisherman and a member of the Voorheesville Rod and Gun Club. He was a supporter of members of the United States Armed Forces and National Law Enforcement organizations throughout the country. In his retirement he enjoyed golfing and was a member of the Twaalfskill Golf Club. Mr. Van Allen was described as very supportive of family and friends in time of need. He always provided kind words and guidance through difficult times. Mr. Van Allen is survived by a daughter, Stacey Hommel; and sons, Eric Van Allen and Kyle Van Allen, all of Kingston. He is also survived by a sister, Barbara Sperbeck of Indiana; and a brother, John Van Allen of Pennsylvania, four grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by a step-sister, Donna Munro. Friends will be received at the Joseph V. Leahy Funeral Home on Thursday from 4 to 8 p.m. A funeral service will be held on Friday at 10 a.m. at the Old Dutch Church 272 Wall St., Kingston with Reverend Dr. David Brechter officiating. Burial will follow with military honors in the Wiltwyck Cemetery. On Thursday evening, the Joyce Schirick Post 1386 V.F.W. will conduct a ritual at 7 p.m. and the Rondout Lodge, 343 Free and Accepted Masons will conduct a ritual at 7:30 p.m. Funeral arrangements are under the guidance of the Joseph V. Leahy Funeral Home, Inc. 27 Smith Ave., Kingston, NY 12401. jvleahyfh.com