Obituary of Mary V. Shanklin

Niskayuna - Mary Louise (Vosburgh) Shanklin passed away on Saturday, October 24th, 2009 in the comfort of her home. She was a cancer survivor for 35 years before succumbing to complications. Her positive attitude and strength were an inspiration to all around her. Mary was born Dec. 19, 1929 in Schenectady, NY. She was the daughter of the late Dr. Beverly and Mary Vosburgh. Mary attended Nott Terrace High School and subsequently graduated from Green Mountain College in Vermont. She enjoyed a full life working, raising her three daughters, and later, enjoying retirement with her husband, Van. She particularly enjoyed sewing, needlepoint, playing bridge and scrabble, traveling, and spending time with her family and friends. Mary is survived by her husband, Van Shanklin; her brother, Bill Vosburgh (Jeanette); three daughters- Kipp Freeman (Bruce); Karen Puglisi (Peter); and Martha Finlay (Scott); eight grandchildren- Heidi, Adam (Rachel), Molly, Michael (Janna), Andrea, Kelley, Heather, and Alan; two great grandchildren- Gabriella and Michael; a stepson, Elliot (Diane); and five step-grandchildren- Jason, Joshua, Jane, Bryan, and Claire. A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, October 31, 2009 at 10 AM at Jones Funeral Home, 1503 Union Street, Schenectady, and a luncheon for family and friends will follow at a place to be announced. A private interment service is scheduled at the Vale Cemetery later that day. Memorial contributions may be made to the Community Hospice of Schenectady or The American Cancer Society.