Walter V. "Buddy" Proper Jr.

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of a beloved man - a son, father, brother, grandfather, uncle, and friend - Walter Vincent Proper Jr. (Buddy), who peacefully passed away after a courageous battle with cancer on November 9, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was 68 years old.
Buddy, a lifelong outdoorsman, was born on September 2, 1957, in Catskill, NY, to Walter Proper Sr. and Rose (Taranto) Proper. He was raised in Athens, NY, and attended Coxsackie-Athens High School. Shortly after graduation, Buddy proudly served his country in the U.S. Army, later receiving an honorable discharge.
He went on to marry the love of his life, Hazel (Gauthier) Proper, and together they shared a beautiful family of seven children, cherishing every moment despite the heartbreak of losing two of their own.
Buddy was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who loved nothing more than family gatherings - especially those famous BBQs, where no dessert was safe in his presence. He enjoyed hunting and fishing with his brother Anthony and nephews Jason and Anthony Jr., and loved watching hunting shows while singing like "Kenny Chesney," as one of his patients fondly remarked. Whether at work in the healthcare field or spending time with loved ones, Buddy's joy came from making others smile - and people truly adored him for it.
Buddy was predeceased by his parents Walter and Rose Proper; sister and brother-in-law Toni and Michael Maurer; brother-in-law Bill Waldron; nephew Anthony Proper; two children Kaylin and Kyle Proper; and granddaughter Aubrey Laurange.
He is survived by his beloved wife Hazel Proper; his children Mike Jennings, Melinda Jennings, Mark (Jessica) Laurange, John Laurange, Tonya (Frank) Davis, Walter Proper III, and Melissa Proper; and his cherished grandchildren Nicholas, Sierra, Dekota, EJ, Amber, Taylor, Amya, Breanne, Brenden, Isaiah, Alexis, Alivia, Frankie, Harper, and Grayson.
He is also survived by his siblings Brenda (Sonny) Maurer, Corky Waldron, Lucy Proper, Anthony (Tammy) Proper, and Joe Proper; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends who will forever remember his kindness and humor.
Relatives and friends are invited to visit with the family on Saturday, November 15th from 11:00 A.M.- 12:30 pm at the W.C. Brady's Funeral Home, 97 Mansion St. in Coxsackie. Funeral Services for Buddy will be conducted at 12:30 pm at the funeral home after which a Celebration of Buddy's Life will follow at the Medway-Grapeville Fire Company, located at 1351 County Road 51, Hannacroix, NY.
Buddy will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him, but his laughter, generosity, and spirit will live on forever in our hearts.