George Erik Kukkonen

September 23, 1932 – June 19, 2021

Cornwall, New York

George E. Kukkonen a resident of Orange County for over 60-years passed away on June 19, 2021 at the Kaplan Family Hospice Residence in Newburgh, New York surrounded by family. He was born in Helsinki, Finland to Yrjo and Elsa Kukkonen. George graduated from Haaren High School in New York City and Paul Smith’s College in northern New York State with an AAS degree in Forestry and Engineering. In addition, George pursued and obtained professional certifications from Syracuse and Cornell Universities for inspection & supervision of public works projects and N.Y.S. Real Estate Law as well as graduating from The John W. Mclure School of the National Hardwood Lumber Association in Tennessee as a Certified Timber & Lumber Inspector and further received a N. Y. S. license for waste water treatment plant operations through the N.Y.S. Dept. of Health & New York University.

George held a variety of positions during his career starting as a Crew Foreman for American Airlines Fleet Services. He worked as an Aquatic Biologist for the New York State Department of conservation and was the Deputy Chief Inspector for the New York City District of the National Hardwood Association and was the Principal of his own firm, International Lumber Consultants. After moving to Orange County in the late 1950’s George was the Town of Blooming Grove Police Chief for a few years. He was a Project Manager, Chief Inspector, and Director of Sanitary Science and Laboratories at Kartiganer Associates, PC in New Windsor, New York. He worked for Orange County as a “Right of Way” agent for municipal projects and was a Public Works Engineer/Inspector for the Town & Village of Monroe, NY and lastly before retiring was the Building Engineer for Arden Hill Hospital.

George is survived by his loving wife Joan of 66-years; Son - Kenneth (Deborah); Grandchildren – Kristin Kababik (Chris), Erik, Kaitlyn Kukkonen (Nigel), and Kevin. Great Grandchildren – Grace Kukkonen, Sophia & Declan Kababik.

The family would like to thank Dr. Bambino, Willcare Home Health Care, and The Kaplan Family Hospice for the wonderful care they gave to George.

Funeral services and burial in Washingtonville Cemetery were private at the convenience of the family. Memorial contributions can be made to The Kaplan Family Hospice Residence, 800 Stoney Brook Court, Newburgh, New York 12550.

To leave an online condolence please visit www.davidtfergusofh.com