‘Beloved’ Hudson Valley, New York Teacher Dies Unexpectedly

A Hudson Valley teacher who also worked in radio and for Major League Baseball passed away.

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Kathy Butsko of Newburgh died unexpectedly Monday morning at the age of 60. Butsko was a devoted wife, mother, grammy, sister, and aunt, her obituary states.

Butsko got her Masters' degree at Marist College. She was an adjunct professor at Marist College and SUNY Orange.

"She was very passionate about education," her obituary states. "When she loved you, she made sure you knew it and just how much she loved you. Kathy was the touchstone of our family, the one who always brought us together. Family was everything to her."

Marist Circle says Butkso was "popular and well-loved." She taught in the School of Communication at Marist College.

She started working at the college in 2009. She's served a number of roles including adjunct instructor of communication courses, academic advisor, visiting professional lecturer, and director of the Summer Pre-College Program for Sports Communication.

“Kathy was beloved by students, faculty and staff," Marist Dean for the School of Communication Jacqueline Reich told Marist Circle. “She was a wonderful, smiling and giving presence in the school; she will be missed. Our hearts go out to her loved ones.”

Prior to working at Marist, she worked in professional baseball for 20 years. She served as a financial liaison to a number of Major League Baseball (MLB) affiliates, including the New York Mets, the Seattle Mariners, the Texas Rangers, the Florida Marlins, and the Tampa Rays.

She also had many roles including working with Minor League Baseball franchise including Business Manager, Community Relations Director, Merchandising Director, and Vice President/Assistant General Manager.

She was twice nominated for the Rawlings Executive Woman of the Year.

After working in baseball she served as a business manager for several Hudson Valley radio franchises. She also served as human resources manager and maintained financial records.

During her time in radio, Butsko served as the business manager for Townsquare Media in the Hudson Valley and was very well-liked by the staff.

"I had the pleasure of working with Kathy for many years at the radio station and she was always so kind, gentle, and caring - even in the most difficult situations," Townsquare Media Live Event Manager Anthony Verano said. "Since she moved on to other work, she always kept in touch and asked how me and my family were doing. She herself loved her family very much and always proudly talked about them. She will surely be missed."

Visitation will be Monday from 4:00 pm until 6:00 pm with a service at 6:00 pm at  William G. Miller & Son Funeral Home, 371 Hooker Avenue, Poughkeepsie.

Donations in Kathy’s memory may be made to: Marist College, 3399 North Road, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601, or a charity of one’s choice.