Obituary of John Richard Masterson

John Richard “Dick” Masterson, the owner of Nature’s Pantry in Fishkill and New Windsor, passed away on Monday, October 2nd at the age of 76.

Born to John Stephen and Eileen Bennett Masterson on April 26th, 1947, Dick was a lifelong resident of Wappingers Falls. He attended Our Lady of Lourdes High School, and graduated from Manhattan College. His intention was to become a teacher like his mother, before following in his father’s footsteps as a grocer instead. Dick worked for Shop-Rite for 20 years before betting on himself with Nature’s Pantry in 1989. From that first tiny storefront in Wappingers Falls, his business grew to a two-store chain that has been servicing the Hudson Valley for almost 35 years.

When not at his stores, Dick could most often be found at his beloved home with a good book, working in his garden, or strolling the grounds of Carnwath Farms with a camera around his neck. Ever proud of his Irish heritage, you could also catch his happy face each Spring, marching with Nature’s Pantry as a sponsor of the Wappingers Falls St. Patrick’s Day Parade.

Known as “Pop” to his family, he’s remembered for his boisterous laugh, his tireless work ethic, and his unlimited affection for all things Christmas. Dick is survived by his wife of 46 years, Susan; his sisters, Kathleen, Maureen, Jackie, and his brother-in-law Pete Wilby; his children, Vincent (Deb), Danielle (Rick), Chris (Erika), and Damian (Arianna); his grandchildren, Brianna (Austin), Trishia, Kaiden, Mila, Finnegan, Beckett, and Rafferty; and his great-grandchild Aubree. He was predeceased by his brother Tommy, his sister Margaret, and his grandchildren, Scout and Quinlan.

Dick’s family will receive his friends at Straub, Catalano, & Halvey Funeral Home in Wappingers Falls on Thursday, October 12th from 4-6pm, with a service to follow at 6pm by Father Alex.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his name to Sparrow’s Nest in Wappingers Falls.