Obituary of Michael W. Martindale

PLATTSBURGH: Michael W. Martindale, Jr., aged 41 and a resident of Plattsburgh, NY, peacefully passed away at CVPH Medical Center on January 1, 2024.

On December 3, 1982, Michael came into the world, born to Kristine Bennett-Barnes. Beyond his mother, he was raised by Kristine’s husband, Bill Barnes, affectionately known as Dad.  Following his graduation from Plattsburgh High School in 2002, Michael chose to start his professional journey immediately, entering the home construction industry and working side by side with his dad, Bill. 

After accruing valuable experience in the construction field, Michael decided to explore new experiences in North Carolina.  Venturing south, he fully engaged in the racing industry, honing his expertise in fabrication.  Eventually, he felt the pull of his northern roots, continuing in the fabrication field as a welder for C & I Boilers and then at Bombardier in Plattsburgh 

Growing up, Michael immersed himself in the world of go-karting.  His love for go-kart racing began at the tender age of 5, and it remained a lifelong pursuit.  Michael achieved a significant milestone by winning the World Indoor Championships in 1992 in Daytona Beach, Florida.  During his years in karting he was an active member of both the World Karting Association and the Northeast Kart Club of Vermont.

In addition to go-kart racing, Michael found immense joy in hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, and spending leisure time in the outdoors.  Of all his outdoor activities he had a real passion for snowboarding.  It was during his time at Whiteface Mountain that he serendipitously encountered the love of his life, Meaghan Paugh.  Then, in 2018, Michael’s life reached its pinnacle with the birth of his son, Maddox.  From that moment onward, Maddox became the center of Michael’s world, bringing him unparalleled joy and making everything else take a backseat.

Greeting Michael with open arms in heaven are his grandparents, K. Douglas and Betty Bennett and Howard and Ann Martindale.

Those left to cherish the memory of Michael include his parents, Bill and Kristine (Bennett) Barnes of Queensbury.  He is also survived by his cherished son, Maddox W. Martindale, and Maddox’s mother, Michael’s girlfriend Meaghan Paugh, of Plattsburgh, NY. Michael is fondly remembered by his sister Rachael (Brad) Graham and her family, residing in Boulder, CO.  Additionally, he is survived by several aunts, uncles, and cousins. Among his dearest friends, Michael leaves behind Nick Beymer of Steamboat Springs, CO, and not to be forgotten, his loyal four-legged companion, Kallie.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Michael are kindly invited to contribute to The Maddox Martindale Scholarship Fund, accessible through any Glens Falls National Bank branch.

Friends may call on Michael’s family from 4 to 6 pm, Wednesday, January 10, 2024 at the Alexander Funeral Home, 3809 Main St., Warrensburg.

At the request of the family, a private memorial service will be held at 6 pm.

Please visit www.alexanderfh.net for online condolences and guestbook.