Paid Notice: John Frederick Garretson, age 78, longtime resident of both Malverne and East Hampton, Long Island, passed away on Friday, August 15, 2025, at the Home of the Good Shepherd Assisted Living in Malta, N.Y.
Born on January 24, 1947, he was the son of the late Herbert and Elsie (Seaburg) Garretson. He grew up in Malverne, while spending weekends and summers in East Hampton, along with his parents and two older sisters, Susan (the late Jim) Winkler and Jane Kiembock. East Hampton is where the family ultimately settled, and where John retired.
John graduated from Malverne High School and went on to earn his bachelor’s degree in Anthropology from Drew University. He served in the National Guard for six years, and began his career as the Ombudsman for the Town of Lawrence. He later enjoyed a fulfilling career with the Town of Hempstead, where he ultimately served as Director of Finance for forty years, before his retirement.
John was the former husband of Carol Garretson; loving father of Katherine R. (David Drake) Garretson, Sarah E. (Glenn) Granzin and Evelyn J. (Max) Breedlove; grandfather of Alexander Drake, Charles Drake, Karolina Drake, Luke Granzin, Heidi Granzin and Finn Granzin.
A true Long Islander at heart, John loved boating, the beach, digging clams, fishing, and the many pleasures of life by the water. He was a water ski instructor on Three Mile Harbor in his youth, and scuba dived in Gardiner’s Bay. The family was so fortunate to spend many happy times with him out on the boat or at the beach. His hobbies included photography, reading, music, tackling the New York Times crossword puzzles, and staying busy with countless home projects. John also had a passion for collecting records, CDs, watches, knives, and—most uniquely—flashlights. He enjoyed being outdoors and hiking, especially with the East Hampton Trails Preservation Society. He was witty with a dark sense of humor. He was a natural storyteller and appreciated a great turn of phrase or punch line. John loved his time with his family, and they will miss him tremendously.
The funeral will be private.
With confidence, the family has placed their trust in the loving care of the Townley & Wheeler Funeral Home, 21 Midline Road, Ballston Lake, and they encourage you to view and leave messages on John’s Book of Memories at www.TownleyWheelerFH.com
