Steve Shaff DVM

1923 - 2015

Dr. Steve Shaff

Salt Point - Dr. Steve Shaff, 92, died Friday, October 23, 2015 at Mid-Hudson Regional Hospital in Poughkeepsie. He was born September 16, 1923 in Brooklyn and was the son of the late William and Rose Shaff.

After attending college at the University of Washington in Spokane, WA, he joined the U.S. Navy and served his country with honor and distinction as a Naval fighter pilot in the Pacific Theater during World War II, where he flew both Corsairs and Hellcats off two aircraft carriers, the USS Shangri-La and the USS Santee. The time he spent in the Navy was a continual source of pride, and stories, for the remainder of his life. He often said the Navy was the foundation of his strength and character. A grateful nation mourns his passing.

After the war he enrolled in the Veterinary College at Cornell University. After earning his Veterinary degree, he had a successful mixed practice. He then started the first Veterinarian care facility in Bergen County, N.J. that specialized in cats. This was called Cats Exclusive.

From the time he was a child he had a special love and compassion for horses, and he eventually specialized in equines. It was through his love for horses that he met his wife and soul mate, Diana. They married in 1987. Mrs. Shaff survives at home on their farm.

After he retired, he became active with the Food Pantry at the Reach Out Church in Hyde Park, and also attended senior classes as part of the Marist CLS Program at the Samuel F.B. Morse estate.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his son, Michael Shaff and wife, Joyce, of Coral Springs, FL; son, Alan Shaff of Delray, FL; grandchildren, Daniel and Sara Shaff, both of Coral Springs; sister, Muriel Hubsher of New York City; and nephews Jeffrey Hubsher and wife, Lauren; and Mitchell Hubsher, both of Ridgefield, CT; and their families. He will also be fondly remembered by his many loyal friends and clients.

In keeping with his wishes, cremation has taken place.

Memorial visitation will be from 2 to 4 pm, Sunday, November 1st at Sweet's Funeral Home, Inc., Rte. 9, Hyde Park. A Celebration of Steve's life will take place at 3:30 pm during the visitation. U. S. Naval honors will follow.

In lieu of flowers, Steve's family respectfully requests memorial donations to Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, KS 66675. (www.woundedwarriorproject.org)

Arrangements are under the direction of Sweet's Funeral Home, Inc., Rte. 9, Hyde Park. To send an online condolence, or for directions, please visit www.sweetsfuneralhome.com.