John Edward Mack III

John E. Mack III passed peacefully from this earth on November 22, 2022 bringing to end an exemplary life of 88 years.  John’s memory will be forever with his surviving wife of 52 years, Maureen (Whitworth, Hyde Park NY).  “Papa” is also lovingly survived by his four children and their families; John and Bernadette Mack (VA) and their children (John, Rowan and Truman); Todd and Kristin Mack (SC) and their children (Tate, Reese and Abby Clare); Ellen and Craig Nunn (NC) and their children (Aidan, Ethan and Aaron); and David and Erin Mack (NY) and their children (Lily, James and Sam).  He is also survived by his brother Paul Mack (NY), sister-in-law Linda Mack (NY), and many nieces, nephews and cousins.  He was predeceased by his mother Agnes Mack, his Aunt Mildred Albrecht and brothers, Joseph Mack and Peter Mack.    He was born and raised in Poughkeepsie, NY by Agnes, who instilled a deep sense of love and devotion to his community and family that became guiding principles for him throughout his entire life.  After graduating from Poughkeepsie High School and Siena College on a ROTC scholarship with a Bachelors and Masters, John served as a Captain in the Korean War.  After the war, he returned to Poughkeepsie to begin a 41-year career at Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corporation. 

Rising to the level of CEO and Chairman of the Board, John was always proud to be a member of the CHG&E Corp. family and loved to see its employees spread goodwill throughout the community.  He was a member of and held leadership positions at various industry association communities including the Edison Electric Institute, American Gas Association, New York State Electric Energy Research Corporation and the New York Power Pool.  Aside from his professional work, John served at dozens of community organizations and charities where his leadership skills helped grow and serve the community.  These organizations included the Astor Home for Children, American Heart Association, Marist College, Mount St. Mary College, St. Francis Hospital, The Salvation Army, Boy Scouts of America, the United Way of Dutchess County and Mid-Hudson Valley Pattern for Progress, just to name a few.  All who served with him came to appreciate his devotion to and sole desire for a better community around him.  Following these many achievements, he and Maureen enjoyed 25 years of retirement on Hilton Head Island, SC where they took pleasure in wonderful neighbors, good friends and a lagoon view! 

Some of the words used to describe John were “kind”, “sweet”, and “a true gentleman.”  These words hang true as John’s family and friends look back on a life filled with achievements, not at the cost of others, but made sweeter because they were achieved along with others.  He will truly be missed by all those who knew him and his legacy serves as an authentic example of a life lived with purpose and love for others to follow. 

John will be interred at Calgary Cemetery in Poughkeepsie, NY.  A celebration of life will be held in Poughkeepsie at a future date.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to The Children’s Fund of Astor, Astor Home for Children, 6339 Mill Street, Rhinebeck, NY 12572 or to your favorite children’s charity .. living by one of John’s favorite quotes, “You are never so tall as when you stoop to help a child.”