Carl E. Witherel, a longtime resident of Ferndale, NY, died unexpectedly on Saturday May 28, 2011. He was 65.

The son of Franklin P. and Helen Avery Witherel, he was born on June 20, 1945 in Middletown, NY.

Carl graduated from Wallkill Senior High School in 1963 and taught mathematics at the Monticello Middle School for 33 years before retiring. Carl married Alice Knapp of Mongaup Valley, NY on March 25, 1972 and they would have celebrated their 40th anniversary next year.

He was a third-generation horse dealer in the Northeast and beyond. Carl loved his animals, especially his dogs. Together they traveled many miles, back and forth across the country.

After retirement, Carl enjoyed his paper and breakfast every morning at Tilly’s Diner with friends.

Carl is survived by his wife at home; his mother of Wallkill; sisters Betty Witherel of Saugerties and Nancy Sacon and husband Leonard of Sharon, MA; mother-in-law Ruth Knapp of Mongaup Valley; cousin Robert Witherel of Wallkill; long-time friend Steen Andersen and a group of special long-time friends in the horse business; one aunt; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

He is predeceased by his father.

Friends may call at Ramsay’s Funeral Home, 3534 State Rt. 55, Kauneonga Lake on Wednesday June 1 from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. Funeral services will be held on Thursday, June 2 at 3 p.m. at Ramsay’s Funeral Home. Rev. David Coon will officiate. Burial will take place in Evergreen Cemetery in Bethel, NY.