HOPEWELL JUNCTION – Donald Howard VanTassel, 62, a lifelong area resident, died on Sunday, July 21, 2013 at Vassar Brothers Medical Center.

Born in Fishkill on September 25, 1950, he was the son of the late Howard and Anita (Carlson) VanTassel. Donald proudly served our country for three tours in the United States Army during the Vietnam War.

He was presently employed as a mail carrier for the United States Post Office in Stormville. Donald enjoyed fishing and shopping at garage sales.

Donald is survived by his partner, Margaret Kluga at home; his children, Melissa Darcy and her husband Rafael Valentin of Hudson, Jessica Jo VanTassel of Georgia, and John Sanflippo of Poughkeepsie; his grandchildren, Amanda, Clayton, Olivia, Natalie, Isabella, Ethan, and Lillian; his sisters, Noreen and Toni; his brother, Glenn; his lifelong friend, Gary Foshay, Sr.; his godson, Gary Foshay, Jr.; his niece, Tammy; his nephew, Michael; and many other cousins, family members, and friends.

Burial will be on Wednesday, July 31, 2013 at 1:00 pm at Fishkill Rural Cemetery with military honors.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Donald's family. Please make checks payable to Melissa Darcy and mail care of to the McHoul Funeral Home, Inc., PO Box A, Hopewell Junction, NY 12533.

For donations or online condolences, please visit Donald's Book of Memories at www.mchoulfuneralhome.com.