Michael Lawrence Harten

Michael Lawrence Harten, 61, of West Nyack, NY, passed away on January 28th, having lived a life defined by joy, connection, and care for others. Born on January 2nd and raised in Blauvelt, NY, Mike was the youngest boy of Charles and Patricia Harten née Lydon. Growing up alongside his brothers, Tom and Ken, a lifelong sense of loyalty, adventure, and fun took shape. At the heart of Mike’s life was his family. He was deeply devoted to his wife, Joni Harten, née Slattery, and his three children: daughters, Elizabeth Harten and husband, Joseph Cetrone, and Margaret Feinberg, née Harten, and husband, Jonathan Feinberg, and son Charles Harten. They were the center of his world, and he showed it by jumping into every moment with them. He enjoyed each special memory and was sure to appreciate all the laughs along the way. Mike was a devoted and joyful “Bop” to his grandson, Jameson. He was thrilled to become a grandpa and embraced this chapter fully with his favorite little guy. Whether they were singing, fishing, napping in Bop’s chair, or simply sharing quiet moments together, Mike delighted in every second, memories that will live on with Jameson for years to come. Happiest in the great outdoors—whether carving through fresh powder on his snowboard, hunting and fishing, frequenting the greens at Blue Hill, soaking in the fresh air, or tending quietly to his garden, he truly came alive in nature. During harvest season, he loved sharing the experience with close friends and family, inviting them to walk the perimeter, enjoy the fruits of the season, and savor those simple, shared moments together. That same enthusiasm carried into every part of his life. Mike never missed an activity or an opportunity to join in. If something was happening, he wanted to be there—fully engaged, all in, and enjoying every moment. He was always ready to offer support, encouragement, laughter, or simply his steady presence when it mattered most, making everyone around him feel seen and valued. A natural storyteller and self-taught ukulele enthusiast, Mike had a way of turning ordinary moments into lasting memories by writing songs, listening to music, or sharing in the joy of live performances. He delighted in impromptu jam sessions and the simple happiness of being around others who shared his passion for music. His expansive circle of friends reflected who he was: inclusive, welcoming, and genuinely interested in people. As an adult, Mike revived his old Boy Scout troop, Troop 55, alongside his son, Charlie. What began as a labor of love grew into a thriving troop, creating a meaningful legacy of mentorship, leadership, and community—values Mike lived by every day. That same dedication carried into family traditions, where he eagerly gathered loved ones each year for the annual Binghamton Open. Though he married into the family, Mike quickly became a cornerstone—forming “The Outlaws” and making sure every new family member felt included, valued, and had a place to belong. Mike will be remembered for the joy he brought into the lives of others, for the music and laughter he shared so freely, and for the way he lived fully and wholeheartedly. No matter who you were, Mike honored your unique interests and celebrated your achievements and met you where you were. We honor his incredible legacy by carrying forward his love for life, his passion for showing up, and his unwavering devotion to family and friends.

Tributes

Michael Lawrence Harten

January 2, 1965 - January 28, 2026