James Dennis Casey

Casey, James Dennis
HOOSICK FALLS - James Dennis Casey passed away peacefully on November 16, 2025, after a long illness. Dennis, (or just "Casey"), was born on October 5, 1942, and lived a long and happy life, most of it in and around Hoosick Falls, N.Y. He attended 12 years at St. Mary's Academy, graduating in 1960 with the last class from the old building. He went on to graduate from Oneonta State (now SUNY Oneonta) in 1964. Dennis spent several years teaching, both in public high school, then as a sales force trainer for Glidden Paint Company. He returned to Hoosick Falls because he missed his hometown, and he understood and appreciated the value of living in a small town surrounded by farms, woods and hills. He was an avid hunter and fly fisherman, and introduced many to the joys of casting onto a stream on a cool May morning, even if the trout got away.
Once back in Hoosick Falls, Dennis began working as a budget analyst for the Rensselaer County Health Department, where he met his wife of 41 years, Margaret O'Connor. After several similar positions within the New York State workforce, Dennis retired as the Director of Finance for the N.Y.S. Division of Parole.
Dennis was very supportive of his community. He worked closely with a team to get the iceskating rink ready each year. He helped find and secure some used boards so that hockey could be played there, then served as youth hockey coach for many years. He served as one of the first Fire Dept. Commissioners after the Village fire department became a fire district. As Commissioner, he reorganized the budget so they were able to secure a bond for the new firehouse. He served on the Village Zoning Board for several years, treating everyone with respect regardless of their proposals. He tended bar every Thursday for many years at Saluzzo's Grill, and was always good for a quick ride home or a beer if you were short of funds, but in the middle of a good story.
Dennis has always been proud of his Irish heritage, and has been to Ireland multiple times. He served as Grand Marshall of the annual St. Patrick's Day parade in 2022.
Dennis was predeceased by his parents, Jim and Alice (Bates) Casey; as well as brother, Sean Casey; stepbrother, Ron Brahan; and nephew, Aaron Wilkie. He left many family members and friends to mourn his passing, including his beloved wife Margaret; daughter, Eileen (Brian) Casey-Campbell; son, Kevin Casey (Molly O'Reilly); stepmother, Mary Casey; sister, Mary Jane Wilkie; brother, Dave (Doris) Casey; stepsisters, Teresa Lassor (Bruce Stroffoleno), Joann Brahan (Neil Cooney), and Maureen Wilt. Dennis also left two grandsons; several nieces and nephews; as well as close friends, Mary Beth and Rich Dickinson, and Howie and Kay Wright.
Calling hours will be held on Friday, December 5, 4 to 7 p.m., at Mahar Funeral Home, 43 Main St., in Hoosick Falls, N.Y. A Memorial Service will be held at the Hoosick Falls Armory, on Saturday, December 6, 3 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alzheimer's Association, or the Hoosick Area Church Association Food Pantry through the Funeral Home.