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Paul R. Stuewer, a Dutchess resident and state police investigator, has died after an illness he sustained working at the World Trade Center site following the 9/11 terrorist attacks, New York State Police Superintendent George P. Beach II said. Stuewer was 51.
Stuewer, who died on Wednesday, served with the State Police for 26 years. He was a trooper in Troop K until his promotion to Investigator in 2004.
He was promoted to the permanent rank of Sergeant in 2005, staying in his most recent assignment as Investigator in Troop NYC for the New York City Drug Enforcement Task Force.
Following 9/11, Stuewer was assigned to New York City to aid in the search-and-recovery efforts.
Born on May 17, 1965 in Poughkeepsie to Hans and Mary Stuewer, Paul graduated from Roy C. Ketcham High School in 1983, and attended Dutchess Community College.
He is survived by his wife, Sheila, parents Mary and Hans Stuewer, children Samantha, Lexi and Christian Stuewer, and stepsons Christopher, Dennis, and Brendan Hall, all of Poughkeepsie.
He was predeceased by his sister, Catherine Gary, and is survived by his brother-in-law, Michael Gary, and nephews Devin, Brendan, and Timothy Gary of Tucson, Ariz. He is also survived by an aunt, Josephine O'Neill of Kilrush, County Clare, Ireland, an uncle Senan Hartney, of Reading, England, as well as numerous cousins in Germany, Ireland, Australia, Canada, and England. Other family include sisters-in-law Maureen Ferguson, Rory (and Michael) Keough, Peggy (and Jamie) Prendergast, and brother-in-law Patrick (and Leslie) Ferguson, as well as many nephews and extended family.
In his free time, Paul was an accomplished wood carver, and was past-President of the Hudson Valley Woodcarvers. He enjoyed blacksmithing, and was a member of the TiYogi Archery Club. Paul loved the outdoors, especially walking his dogs, Dolly and Abby.
The family wishes to thank the doctors, nurses, and staff of Vassar Medical Center, as well as the many colleagues and dear friends who lent support and prayers during Paul's illness.
Funeral arrangements are pending.
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