Howard "Mooch" Magee Jr.

Howard "Mooch" Magee Jr., age 79, passed away peacefully at home on June 12, 2025. Born in Syracuse, NY, on August 13, 1945, Howard was the beloved son of the late Howard Sr. and Clara (Hard) Magee.
Educated in Syracuse, NY, Howard graduated from North High School in 1963 and from Potsdam State in 1967. He further pursued his education with Graduate Studies at St. Lawrence University and Albany State.
Loving and devoted husband of Irma (Staro) Magee for 55 wonderful years. He was the proud father of Sean Patrick Magee of Rehoboth, MA, and Erin Lindsay Magee of Henderson, NV. His grandchildren, Lila Elizabeth Magee and Dillon James Magee of Rehoboth, MA, brought him immense joy and were adored beyond measure. He loved them so! Mooch was an uncle to Sara (Staro) Best of Cape Elizabeth, ME, and Chad Staro of Manchester, VT. He was a cherished great-uncle to Millie Best, Caitlyn, Lizzy, and Charlie Staro. Howard was also the brother of the late Sally (Magee) Nardelli of Syracuse, NY.
Mooch began his esteemed teaching and coaching career at Hermon Dekalb Central in Hermon, NY. Over 16 years, he led his teams through undefeated seasons and earned the title of Coach of the Year in the North Country. This success propelled him to move on to Coach Clarkson College, and later, in 1979, he and his family moved to Glen Falls, NY. There, Howard and his wife joined the Glen Falls Civic Center Staff, working under the legendary Ned Harkness.
Howard's drive and passion for coaching and teaching led him to win the Suburban Council League in 1981.
Later in his career, Mooch shifted paths and, following his mentor and father-in-law,took on the role of General Manager at Desormeau Vending Corporation in Latham, NY. Concurrently, he earned credentials in real estate and insurance, contributing to Schindler Realty, Prudential, and Mutual of Omaha.
Again, his love of teaching and his dedication brought him to Bryant and Stratton College in Albany, NY, where he taught insurance courses and developed new curriculum. Even after his official retirement in 2012, his enthusiasm for teaching never wavered, as he traveled the country to continue to educate (part-time) for Bryant and Stratton until he fully retired in 2015. Mooch and Irma have lived in Florida, Arizona and lastly Massachusetts.
Along the way, Mooch's love for athletics and youth sports led him to major involvement with Glen Falls Little League, YMCA Basketball and youth Ice Hockey organizations in Glen Falls, Troy and Albany, NY. Empire State games brought his youth involvement even further, to the world of Figure Skating. He was bestowed with the honor of Glen Falls Little League President and became a board member of the Troy Boys and Girls Club. In spite of his limited skating skills, his ability to teach and inspire were once again portrayed as he coached both boys and girls ice hockey teams to State Championships. Mooch was so proud of his son's baseball ability throughout high school and college, and his daughter's ice hockey prowess at Boston College and on the USA Hockey National Women's Team. He never stopped wearing her Boston College hat, even on the day he passed, a very proud father for sure!
Mooch was a believer in the 3D's of life: DESIRE, DETERMINATION and DEDICATION, These were his gospel and they extended to his own athletic endeavors. He received honors in basketball, baseball and football on all levels and was inducted into the Potsdam State Hall of Fame. His collegiate experiences led to his semi-pro participation with the Massena Warrior Football Team and the Utica Tire Wreckers Basketball Team.
Howard also found satisfaction on the golf course, fishing, reading and drawing. Traveling the world with family and friends made his life complete. Mooch lived life to the fullest, nothing kept him down if he could help it. His wit and entertaining stories captivated everyone who crossed his path. His overwhelming kindness and empathy towards everyone will always be his legacy. Being honored as Winter Carnival King and an Ecac All Star were definitely honors, but his heartfelt personality toward humanity characterizes what Howard "Mooch" Magee Jr. will be remembered for.
In Mooch's wishes, he desired to have no funeral services. Arrangements are being handled by Riendeau-Mulvey Funeral Home,467 Bay St. Taunton, MA. Mooch wanted a simple cremation with a Celebration of Life Weekend to be celebrated in the Fall. (Details to follow)
Howard "Mooch" Magee Jr. will be remembered for his dedication, passion, and the love he had for his family and those he mentored. His legacy will live on in the countless lives he touched throughout his distinguished career. Mooch always lit the room up with family and friends and he would want nothing more than that to continue.
Until then, raise your glasses and toast to the life of: Howard "Mooch" Magee Jr., a man who loved his family, friends and life, always.
In lieu of flowers, please consider planting a tree or even attending the Celebration of Life Event on Saturday, April 11, 2026 at The Retreat Barn at Five Bridge Inn, 152 Pine Street, Rehoboth, MA from 4:00-8:00pm.
To plant a tree or in Mooch's honors please visit our website at: https://www.r-mfh.com/obituary/HowardMooch-MageeJr/1069062/memorial-tree
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