George "Buddy" Disch

It is with a heavy heart and profound sadness that we announce the passing of George “Buddy” Disch on December 17, 2025 Buddy was born on April 12, 1967, in Queens NY. He was the beloved son of George and Margina (deceased) and adored brother to Jodi. He attended P.S. 162, St Robert Bellarmine School and St Francis Preparatory School. He was a natural athlete who played baseball and football throughout his youth. He was a diehard NY Mets and NY Jets fan even though they disappointed him year after year. In the late 1980s Buddy started working as an apprentice in Ironworkers Union Local 361. He became part of the elite and skilled crews known as “raising gangs” who erect steel structures ultimately culminating in a photo op at the spires peak symbolizing project completion. Reaching the top and installing the final piece is known as “topping out” which is a huge milestone and symbol of pride. The raising gang often takes a commemorative photo at the summit to celebrate their achievement and the project's success. It takes great skill and bravery to be a part of this tradition and Buddy was the epitome of a proud union Local 361 Ironworker. Buddy left NYC for a quieter life in Copake Lake, NY. after an injury he suffered at work which resulted in multiple surgeries. Copake is a cherished place our parents discovered in 1970. We spent our summers and winters there boating, golfing, fishing, skiing and swimming in the lake and just being kids. It was a wonderful place for children to grow up. Buddy was determined to recover from his injuries and best known for “WALKING” and everyone knew and loved him. He loved to kayak on the lake for hours on end. He loved to follow the many Eagles nests perched around the lake and he knew where and when Eaglets were born and watched as their parents taught them how to hunt and survive. He logged thousands of miles and knew the whole community. Everyone knew “George” as the guy who Walks! Buddy found joy in the simple things in life. He had a sharp witty sense of humor and an infectious laugh that lit up the room. He absolutely had a love of food, it didn’t matter if it was a bagel with cream cheese for breakfast or a 5-star meal at the best restaurant. He was always looking forward to his next meal. Buddy was a beloved son, brother, grandson, nephew, godfather, uncle, cousin and friend. His passing has left an immeasurable void in the hearts of those that knew and loved him. He will be deeply missed and his many devastated family members and friends will carry his memory forward. We were raised in the Catholic church and Buddy really found God again in the last years of his life. He leaned into his faith and became a believer and found comfort in God. He will now forever be “Walking with God” Visitation will be held at Roslyn Heights Funeral Home on Friday from 4-8PM. Funeral Mass to be held Saturday at 10:30AM at St. Robert Bellarmine. Cremation will be private. Family & Friends Can Order Flowers by clicking on: https://www.qgfloral.com/roslyn-heights-funeral-flowers/