Karl P. Baisley, age 88, a 58-year resident of Lake Peekskill, New York, passed away peacefully on February 25, 2026, after a long illness.

Karl was born and raised in Peekskill, New York, the son of Elmer Baisley and Thusnelda Winkelmann. Karl was predeceased by his wife of 62 years, Doris Baisley, and by his brother, Mark Baisley. He graduated from Peekskill High School in 1956 and proudly served his country in the United States Air Force. Committed to lifelong learning, Karl went on to graduate from Westchester Community College and later attended Pace University’s School of Business.

Karl built a long and respected career as a land surveyor, working for several civil engineering firms and contributing to numerous road and bridge projects throughout the region. He did tax preparation, volunteered assisting seniors with their taxes, and was a Notary Public.

An avid antique enthusiast and postcard collector, Karl was an active member of the Hudson Valley Half Moon Postcard Club. He also enjoyed classic films, especially military dramas, westerns, and horror movies.

He supported veterans’ organizations, animal welfare, and wildlife charities. Karl had a deep respect for nature and instilled that same reverence in his family. Fondly known as “Dr. Doolittle,” he cared for neighborhood wildlife — from deer and raccoons to skunks — and could often be seen with birds and squirrels eating from his hands. He rescued turtles from busy roads, rehabilitated animals he found at construction sites, and gave countless stray cats and dogs a loving home.

Never one to shy away from sharing his opinions, Karl was known for offering advice — whether requested or not — and for speaking candidly about everything from politics to hairstyles and tattoos. He had a curious mind and took a keen interest in medical research, often sharing the latest information with friends and family.

What began as an unplanned honeymoon trip to Cape Cod became a family tradition, with many vacations on the Cape in the years that followed. Despite his declining health, Karl made a final family trip to the Cape last summer.

The center of his life was his family, around which all his activities revolved. He proudly took a keen interest in the development of his grandchildren’s careers.

At the age of 85, Karl was baptized into the Roman Catholic Church. He took his faith seriously and regularly attended services at St. Columbanus church.

Karl leaves behind his brother, Albert, and three sons: Thane (and his late wife, Darlene), Duane, and Glen (Diana); and three grandchildren: Kate, Jessica (fiancé Randy), and Donovan (Alyssa).

Mass will be offered at 11 a.m. on Saturday, March 14, 2026 at St. Columbanus Church, followed by internment at Hillside Cemetery, Cortland Manor, New York

In lieu of flowers, a donation to the Putnam Humane Society in memory of Karl Baisley would be greatly appreciated.
https://www.puthumane.org/alumni/in-memory-of/in-memory-of-form/