Leona Van de Wal

Leona P. Van de Wal, 95, died peacefully in her sleep, surrounded by her loving family on June 17, 2025, at home in Franciscan Heights, Rensselaer. Leona was the daughter of Howard and Carrie (Staples) Hutchings. She was married for 60 years to Robert J. Van de Wal, the love of her life, who predeceased her in 2019.

She is survived by her daughters: Sally Lamberson, Nancy Pavelich, and Brenda Van de Wal; her son and daughter-in-law: Dale R. and Eve Van de Wal; her grandchildren: Karly Lamberson, Ann (Frank) Candella, and Robert (Alyssa) Van de Wal; her great-grandchildren Caden & Kara Candella, and Eloise & Nathan Van de Wal, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Leona was also "Mom" to Catherine Ernst, and "Grandma" and "Great-Grandma" to Cassandra and Jordan Hazelet and their children Braydon, Evelynn, and Cali.

She was predeceased by all of her siblings: Ernest Hutchings, Virginia Stillwell, Ethel Neves, Eleanor Secor, and Howard Hutchings.

Leona was born in Castleton and graduated from Castleton High School, and she lived in Castleton nearly all of her life. She was a secretary for several law firms in Albany before her long career in the NYS Dept of Social Services, from which she retired in 1992.

In her youth, Leona was very athletic, often diving from a height of 20 feet into the waters of the "new dam." She and Rob were in a bowling league for many years, and she also joined her department's softball league at the age of 50.

In addition to being a wonderful and loving mother, Leona's greatest legacy was performing random acts of kindness and opening her heart and home to those in need throughout her adult life. Her influence as a second "Mom" was such that many believed she had changed the very course of their lives.

Visiting hours will be held at Castleton Funeral Home on Saturday, June 28, 2025, from 12:00 to 1:00 pm, with a service to begin at 1:00 pm. Private inurnment will take place in the Mountain View Cemetery at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, donations made to St. Paul's United Methodist Church, 1583 Carney Road, Castleton, NY 12033, where Leona and Rob were long-time members and supporters, would be greatly appreciated.