WAPPINGERS FALLS - Michael J. Risinit, 56, an area resident since 1999, died after complications from a stroke on September 19, 2024 at the Grove in Valhalla.

Michael was born in Greenwich, CT on August 23, 1968. He had a successful career in writing, and was employed by the New York City Department of Environmental Protection for over 12 years, and also worked for the Journal New from 1998-2014.

Mike loved the outdoors. He birdwatched, photographed and wrote about nature with deep knowledge. He enjoyed traveling and taking road trips to national parks with his family.

In 1996 Michael married Penny Kelly who survives him at home. He is survived by his daughter, Amelia, who graduated from Siena College in the spring. He is also survived by his mother, Patricia Columbo; his sisters, Julie Risinit and Amy Risinit and her husband Keith Griffin; and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his father, Richard Risinit.

Calling hours will be held at the McHoul Funeral Home, Inc., 895 Route 82, Hopewell Junction on Saturday, September 28th from 11am-2pm followed by a funeral service at 2pm.

Donations may be made in memory of Michael to Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, 8231 Beach Road, Chincoteague, VA 23336. Please visit his Book of Memories at www.mchoulfuenralhome.com.