Maurice Hinchey 1938-2017
SAUGERTIES – Former Congressman Maurice Hinchey passed away peacefully at his home in Saugerties this afternoon, at age 79. The announcement was made on his Facebook page He was a beloved statesman and cherished for his work in the community and nationwide.
“My deepest condolences go out to the Hinchey family as they mourn the loss of Maurice,” said Gareth Rhodes, a Democrat candidate in the 19th congressional district. “With Congressman Hinchey’s passing, our community has lost a selfless and inspiring leader who for decades has been our champion.”
Hinchey, a Democrat, served in the Assembly from 1975 to 1992, when he was elected to the U.S. House, where he remained until retiring in 2013.
“Maurice Hinchey was one of the greatest Congressmen ever, fierce and human and clear about what America was and could be,” said Zephyer Teachout, who ran unsuccessfully for Hinchey’s former seat. “The Hudson River is crying tonight for his passing. My heart broke to hear he was actually gone. We honor you, Congressman.”
“We’ve lost an icon and crusader for our environment, our Hudson River, our region,” said Dutchess County Executive Marcus Molinaro, a Republican. “Maurice Hinchey served nearly four decades in public office, and left a living, breathing legacy that remains a foundation of our quality-of-life, not only in the Hudson Valley but throughout New York State. I was honored to share in service with him. He helped shape and preserve the Hudson Valley as a resource, a region, a people. And, today, we are the stewards of his great works and the legacy he leaves behind.”
“I had the privilege of working with Congressman Hinchey when I worked in the City of Newburgh,” Orange County Executive Steve Neuhaus said. “He was a true gentleman and was respected by his peers. Congressman Hinchey was an advocate for the environment and was passionate about serving his constituents. We worked on many projects together and I always enjoyed talking with Congressman Hinchey about his service in the U.S. Navy, which he was very proud of. My thoughts and prayers are with Congressman Hinchey’s family.”
Hinchey is survived by his wife, Allison and children Josef, Michelle and Maurice.
The family will announce plans in the coming days and thanks everyone for privacy in this emotional time.
Hinchey, left, discussing Medicare at a Monticello event.
Right,
emotional in 2012 as he announced retirement from
Congress
after a long political career
