KENT—Richard Neil “Rick” Sinclair, 70, passed away peacefully at Vassar Brothers Medical Center January 13, 2024, following a lengthy illness.
Born May 20, 1953 in Dover, NH, he was the son of the late Neil Anthony Sinclair and Barbara (Woundy) Sinclair. He was the eldest of five children. Rick was a graduate of Arlington High School and Dutchess Community College.
Rick lived in Oregon for several years and became a salmon fisherman. He returned to New York and was employed by Schatz Federal Bearing in Poughkeepsie prior to the business closing. Rick then used his passion for antiques and became owner of Papa Hobo Antiques on Main Street in Millerton, NY. After closing the store, he became a Group Home/Human Services Manager.
Rick was the former president of The Danbury Mineralogical Society and former board member of the Mid-Hudson Gem and Mineral Society and was passionate about his large rock and mineral collection. He was the founder and co-chair of the Water Alliance in South Kent.
Richard was married in 1979 to his lifelong partner, Robert Joseph Rockefeller. Together they lived in South Kent for 32 years. Rick had recently moved to LaGrangeville, NY, following Bob’s passing on April 19, 2022. Their marriage lasted nearly 44 years. Recently Rick became a resident at Holiday Manor at Woodside.
The family would like to thank the staff at the Manor at Woodside, the staff at Fresenius Kidney Care, and the staff at Vassar Hospital for their loving care.
Richard is survived by his four siblings and their spouses: Mark Sinclair (Karen), Sharon Sinclair Merriam Young (Stephen), Sandra Sinclair and Donna Sinclair Burke (Brian). He is also survived by his nieces and nephews and their children: Eric Sinclair (Samantha) Jake, Gracie, Connor and Gus; Andrew Sinclair (Lauren) Charleigh & Riley; Cathrine McCormick (Michael) Quinn and Emma; John Merriam (Jennifer) Jonah and Jared and Kayla Burke. Rick is also survived by his aunt, Janet Bardawell and cousins Linda Heider (Terry), Bob Williamson (Joan), Nancy Duval (Gary), Steve Williamson (Annie), Michael Woundy and Debra Woundy (Jacqueline).
Calling hours will be held Saturday, January 20, 2024, 10-11 a.m. at the Scott D. Conklin Funeral Home, 37 Park Ave., Millerton, NY. A funeral service will take place at 11 a.m. at the funeral home. The Rev. Zora F. Cheatham will officiate. Burial will follow at Irondale Cemetery in Millerton.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Trinity United Methodist Church, 6 S. Cross Rd, LaGrangeville, NY 12540. To send an online condolence to the family, flowers to the service or to plant a tree in Rick’s memory, please visit www.conklinfuneralhome.com
