It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Byron "Pete" Kempney, who peacefully departed this life at his home in Carthage on Saturday, October 4, 2025, at the age of 83. Born on December 21, 1941, he was the son of the late Cyril Joseph and Hannah (Flood) Kempney.

Pete attended Carthage Augustinian Academy until the 10th grade and graduated from Carthage High School in 1960. He began his career as a truck driver,  then worked at the St. Regis paper mill. Eventually transitioned to running Kempney Trucking and Excavating with his son Kraig. Through all his different occupations he was dedicated to maintaining a small farm.

Pete was first married to Dawn Morgan, a union that later ended in divorce. He later found love again and married Virginia A. "Ginny" Malbouf in 2005.

He is survived by three sons: Kirk (Dale) of St. Cloud, FL; Kraig of Carthage; and Keith (Megan) of New Hartford. He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren, Morgan, Kyra (Tyler Cook), Byron, and Rhett, as well as great-grandchildren Moriah and Kane. Additionally, he is survived by his brother, Dwight (Patty) Kempney, and his sister, Sister Mary Rita Kempney, along with the Malbouf, Flint, and Ripley families.

Pete was predeceased by his parents; his son, Kyle Kempney, (1988); his wife, Ginny Kempney; and his siblings, Vada Webb, Nancy Sweeney, Joan Antonelli, and Duane Kempney.

An avid farmer, Pete cherished his time outdoors at "Kempney Acres" tending to his animals, constructing barns, fixing fence or haying with his family. Sundays held special meaning for him; after church, he enjoyed breakfast with dear friends Ruth, Carl, and Rita at "their" table, filled with laughter and stories. Pete and Ginny also loved traveling, particularly to Branson for country western concerts. He took great joy in attending his grandchildren's sporting events, passing down the art of playing dominoes, and watching them fish in the pond. Each Christmas, he delighted his family with handmade toys. Pete's warmth and generosity will be profoundly missed by all who knew him. A heartfelt thank you goes to his granddaughters, Morgan and Kyra, for their special care over the past few years.

Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Bezanilla-McGraw Funeral Home. A private graveside service will take place on Thursday, October 9, 2025, at St. James Catholic Cemetery in Carthage, NY. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. James Catholic Church, 327 West Street, Carthage, NY 13619.

Funeral arrangements are being handled by Bezanilla-McGraw Funeral Home, Carthage. To leave a condolence, please visit bezanillafh.com