Berlin – LeGrand Wynants, Jr., also known as “Dutch” to family, “Catfish” to boating friends and “Pop Pop” to his grandchildren, died peacefully at home surrounded by loved ones on April 21, 2013, in his 83rd year.
LeGrand was born to LeGrand and Elizabeth Krüzler Wynants in Ossining, NY. He graduated from Ossining High School with the class of 1948. He earned his Combat Infantry Badge in the Korean War. After his service ended, he married the love of his life, Maryann, with whom he shared almost 59 years of marriage. They raised five children together, who blessed them with 15 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren.
LeGrand was a volunteer firefighter in Ossining for 20 years until his move to Berlin, NY, in 1968. He was a lifetime member of the Berlin Rod & Gun Club. He was an avid outdoorsman, hunter, fisherman and recreational boater as well as a skilled artisan wood carver and tooler of leather. Some of his greatest pleasures derived from musical evenings with his extensive family. He enjoyed roasting a pig with his friend Wally O’Neil, boating on the Mohawk River with Maryann and lifting a glass with friends. His working career included silk screen printing, construction and heavy equipment operation. He retired from Taconic in Petersburgh, NY, after 19 years of service.
LeGrand is survived by his wife, Maryann, his son, David LeGrand Wynants, Sr., and two daughters, Hilda-lee and Reneé. He is also survived by his sisters-in-law, Barbara Conklin of Poughkeepsie, NY, and Margaret Bach of Ft. Myers, FL, one niece and one nephew. Many cousins also survive. LeGrand is pre-deceased by sons, Jess and Kurt, grandson, Adam, by brothers, Luis and George, and son-in-law, Vincent.
Calling hours will be from 4 to 7 pm on Friday, April 26, at the Thomas M. Barber Funeral Home, 66 Armsby Road, Petersburgh, NY, 12138. At 4 pm the Military Honor Guard will pay tribute to LeGrand’s service to his country. Visitation will conclude with a brief memorial service. The family would like to thank the Palliative Care Team of the Stratton VA Hospital and the Community Hospice of Rensselaer County. Donations can be made in LeGrand’s name to any charity of your choice or to the family in care of the funeral home.