Joseph Michael Mondel, 88, died after a short battle with cancer, at his home in Spencertown, NY.

Born and raised in   Williamsburg, he went to Cathedral Prep and College, Brooklyn, and then Immaculate Conception Seminary in Huntington. He was ordained a priest in 1954.

He served for 10 years in Our Lady of the Snows Church in North Floral Park, and then was assigned as a counselor at Bishop McDonnell H.S., Brooklyn.

He earned degrees in pastoral counseling from N.Y. Theological Seminary and Fordham University.

After receiving a dispensation, he was married to Constance Fearon for nearly 40 years. He worked as a counselor at Isabella Geriatric Center in Washington Heights. After 10 years, he relocated to Spencertown where he and his wife collected furniture and rarities under the title J &C Antiques.

He continued his community service through Meals on Wheels, Hospice, and in helping the elderly in their relocation and support needs. He was active at St. James parish, Chatham, NY, as well as in volunteer positions for the Diocese of Albany.

Having donated his body for medical research, a memorial Mass will be celebrated on Sunday, Aug. 13 at 2 p.m. at St. James Church. A reception will then follow in the parish hall.