Rory Gene Blackwell Sr., 77, of Hyde Park, NY passed away on December 15, 2024, in the comfort of his Hyde Park home.  Born on August 19, 1947, in Alberta, Virgina, the son of Roy Lee and Mittie Blackwell, Rory moved to Pleasant Valley, during grade school. Rory graduated from Arlington High School in 1966 where he was a state champion hurdler. He also proudly served the US Army 1968-71 stationed in Germany. Rory worked for IBM as a computer programmer for 30 plus years. After retirement he moved on to work at the local auto salvage yards. His passion was classic cars owning and restoring various makes and models through the years, his attention to detail was second to none. He was a Chevrolet guy, the '57 Chevy was the first car he owned, and one still sits in his garage today. To say he was an enthusiast was an understatement.  In the early 80's he served as the President of the Hudson Valley Classic Chevy Club '55, '56, '57, where he made lifelong friends. He loved nothing more than going on a car cruise or to a car show. For Rory it was not only about the cars but about the people.  But even more than people he loved his animals, he loved his dogs. He would often be seen riding around town with his dogs. He was well known in Hyde Park as a greeter at the local Stewarts and Eveready Diner.  Rory was a compassionate man, spent years contributing to the community as a soccer coach. He would put his family on his back if anyone needed anything he would be there for them.  Rory is survived by his wife Kathleen and his daughter Christine Solberg, grandson Quinn and granddaughter Lila; his son Rory Jr, partner, Diane, granddaughter Josephine; daughter Raegan Lopez, husband, Tino, grandsons Rosendo and Reese. He is also survived by his sister Paulette and many nieces, nephews and cousins. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his son-in-law, Troy Solberg and brother-in-law, McKinley Francois.  In keeping with Rory's wishes, cremation has taken place, and a celebration of life will be planned for this upcoming Spring.  In lieu of flowers, Rory's family respectfully requests memorial donations to Community Animal Rescue Efforts of Dutchess County (CARE of Dutchess County), PO Box 4, Wappingers Falls, NY 12590 (www.careofdc.org) or the Dutchess County SPCA, 636 Violet Avenue, Hyde Park, NY 12538, (www.dcspca.org). Arrangements are under the direction of Darrow's Funeral Home, Inc., Poughkeepsie.  To send an online condolence, please visit Rory's obituary page at www.darrowfuneralhome.com.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday August 30, 2025 from 1pm to 4pm at James Baird Pavilion #2.  All Are welcome for this day of remembrance.  Ride your motorcycles, bring out your classic cars and lets hear some stories! Dress Casual, bring your family lets remember the good times.  A gathering of family and friends.  BYOB