FORT ANN – Michael “Mike” Raymond Celeste, 66, of Fort Ann, passed away Thursday, March 11, 2021 unexpectedly at Glens Falls Hospital with his family by his side.
Born on October 10, 1954 in Glens Falls, he was the son of Mary Jane Celeste and the late Martin B. Celeste.
He attended Queensbury school before enlisting in the United States Army. Mike proudly served his country during the Vietnam War and was honorably discharged in November 1973.
Mike worked as a self-employed contractor/equipment operator for many years. He also worked as a foreman for Croisier Management Inc., Sparrow Construction, DJ Contractors, Inc. and Rick McGuire Excavating.
Mike was an avid hunter and loved the outdoors. He had many hobbies including participating in rodeo’s, driving stock cars, horticulture and connecting with family and friends on Facebook. Mike had a love for animals and took care of several strays. He will be most remembered for his legendary sense of humor and practical jokes.
In addition to his father, Martin Celeste, Mike was predeceased by his grandparents, several aunts, uncles and cousins, Mike was also predeceased by two special cousins, Edward Fisher of Fort Edward, they were like brothers, and Tina Straut of Kingsbury.
Left to cherish his memory is the love of his life for 15 years, Jeanne Guillery of Fort Ann; his mother, Mary Jane Celeste of Glens Falls; his children, Michael Celeste Jr. of Queensbury, Lisa (Stephen) Friday of South Glens Falls; his stepson, Art Guillery of Auburn; his brothers, Mark Celeste of Hudson Falls, Martin (Viola) Celeste of Queensbury, Mickey (Lisa) Celeste of Belleview, FL., Misty Celeste of Queensbury and Mindy (Scott) Dudley of Hudson Falls; his goddaughter, Kaelin Phillips; close friends, Gordon Labarge, Bubba Potter and Rick McGuire; as well as several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family and friends.
Friends and family may call Friday, March 19, 2021, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., at the Carleton Funeral Home. Inc., 68 Main Street in Hudson Falls.
Burial will be 1 p.m. on Wednesday, March 24, 2021, at Gerald B. H. Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery in the town of Stillwater.
The family suggests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to F.A.C.T. (animal rescue) P.O. Box 4045, Queensbury, NY 12804 or Operation Adopt a Soldier, 891 Saratoga Road, Gansevoort, NY 12831.
My condolences thoughts prayers and love to the Celeste family. This family were great neighbors and friends on Big Boom Rd and Twin Channels Rd. His sister Mindy is like another sister to me and I used to do some yard work for MaryJane. I’m so sorry for all of your loss. May god be with you in your time of sorrow.
We are so sad you left us so soon, but so happy theres no more pain. We will meet again our friend. Jamie & Gord
RIP
Mickey and Lisa..sorry to hear of the death of your brother …Mike…RIP
Good friend great employee, many laughs we shared we will be miss you
I am so very sorry for your loss. I didn’t know him well but I know his impact was big on the pelkeys/O’Hara. God Bless his soul.
You will be missed, coffee just isn’t the same and neither will the wood splitting when the time comes. You are at peace and have no more pain. Till we all meet again my friend god speed.
Condolences to Mike’s family. Worked with Mike back in the early ’70s at Celeste construction. Spent a lot of time together that summer raising hell, moved to Gloversville and lost touch. Was always nice to call him a friend. RIP