Maureen McCarthy Kempler, loving wife of Lester, passed away on Feb. 26, 2021 at Albany Medical Center. Born in Pittsfield, Massachusetts on March 9, 1953, she resided in Chatham, New York. She faced each day with a smile and enthusiasm that was unsurpassed. Her presence always lit up a room. The ultimate optimist. Maureen prided herself in having visited over 70 foreign countries. Language was never a problem for her as she felt that "A smile will take you a mile." Once there she would always love to interact with the children. She was a natural ambassador for our country. Music was a major force in her life. Together, with her husband, she had attended over 30 of the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Music Festivals. This, as well as over 20 Crawfish Festivals and a couple of Blues Cruises. They sometimes felt that New Orleans was their second home. Maureen was a true people person. She had a zest for life, mirrored by her partner of 46 years. Once in a lifetime that special person comes along. Maureen was Lester's special person. She lived life its fullest, following her credo…"Don't Postpone Joy." Maureen is survived by her devoted and beloved husband, Lester. She will be sadly missed by her sister Catie and brother-in-law Michael Wertz of San Diego and Pensacola, sister-in-law Barbara and brother-in-law Ron Toelke of Chatham, as well as four nieces (Meagan, Maureen, Amelia, Arielle) a nephew (Kyle), and two grand nephews (Ozzie, Mac). Donations, instead of flowers, can be made to the youth program at the Morris Memorial in Chatham. Calling hours will be 5-8pm Friday, March 5th. at French, Gifford, Preiter, Blasl funeral home in Chatham. Funeral Services will be on Saturday, March 6th. at St. James Church in Chatham at 10am. Condolences may be conveyed at frenchblasl.com.