NEWS

Randy Ostrander, a quintessential Catskill Mountain Man, passed away peacefully on February 18, 2024, at the age of 66. Born on October 28, 1957, he was the son of Robert and Freda Ostrander.   Randy was a man whose personality was as large as life itself and whose knowledge of local history was as deep as the roots of the mountains he called home.

Randy's life was a testament to the values of hard work and dedication. A self-employed logger and excavator, he was also known for his independent contracting work with the Phoenicia Water District and the Chichester Water District. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish the Ostrander Landscaping and Firewood business, which not only served the community but also showcased his connection to the land and his commitment to preserving the natural beauty of the Catskills.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Randy was an avid outdoorsman, skilled in the arts of hunting and fishing. His love for the great outdoors was matched by his passion for community service. He was a past member and officer of the M. F. Whitney Hose Co., where he dedicated his time and energy to serving others. Randy was also an enthusiastic participant in local sports, having been a former league bowler and a beloved softball teammate.

Randy's life was rich with the love of his family. He is survived by his sons, Randy Ostrander Jr. and his wife Carly, and Adam Ostrander and his wife Krystal. He was a cherished grandpa to Katelyn and Paityn, who will miss his larger-than-life presence and the stories he shared. His brother, Robert "Bo" Ostrander, will remember Randy as not just a sibling but as a lifelong friend and confidant.

A Service to Celebrate the Life of Randy will be held on Saturday February 24, 2024 at 10am at the E. B. Gormley Funeral Home 87 Main St. Phoenicia.  Burial in the Shandaken Rural Cemetery.  Friends will be received on Thursday from 7pm to 9pm, and Friday from 2pm to 4pm and 7pm to 9pm at the Gormley Funeral Home.  You may share a special memory, photo, or condolence on Randy's Tribute Wall at www.gormleyfuneralhome.com

In Catskills' heights, where whispers sigh, 

First snow descends, beneath the sky. 

Mountains' grace in wintry thrall, 

Nature whispers, snowflakes fall.

In autumn, the green leaves of trees transform into a kaleidoscope of yellow, orange, and red. But why does this happen?

As temperatures drop and daylight decreases, trees stop producing chlorophyll, the green pigment responsible for photosynthesis. With less chlorophyll, other pigments in the leaves, like carotenoids (producing yellow and orange hues) and anthocyanins (creating red and purple colors), become more visible.

The exact colors and intensity vary by species and environmental factors, creating the stunning array of fall foliage we enjoy each year.

So, next time you marvel at the vibrant hues of autumn, remember it's all about the fascinating science of seasonal change.