Marilyn L. Schwertfager (Siragusa), age 70, of Dunkirk, NY, died Saturday, April 5, 2014 at Brooks Memorial Hospital after a long, courageous battle with lung cancer, with her family at her side.
She was born in Dunkirk, NY, on November 29, 1943 to the late Bernard J. and Pearl M. (Mosher) Siragusa.
Marilyn was retired from SUNY Fredonia and also pursued many interests that included nursing school and criminal justice. She also volunteered at the Chautauqua Home helping with the Alzheimer's patients. Marilyn was a member of Holy Trinity Church in Dunkirk, where she became instant friends with Father Ray Donohue.
She is survived by her children: Robert S. (Lynne) Young, of Arkwright, N.Y., Bryan K. Young and Pamela J. (Scott) Tweedie, of Fredonia, N.Y.; grandsons: Brandon S. Tweedie and Lucas R. Young; her sisters: Joanne Siragusa, who was by her side during her entire battle with cancer, Jeanette (Angelo) Lopez; her brother Robert (Patricia) Siragusa; and her loving and devoted best friends, Elaine and Sam Eppolito. Marilyn is also survived by her loving companion mishu kitty and her three granddogs: Sparkee, Eddie and Brook Tweedie.
Besides her parents, Marilyn is predeceased by her husband Raymond H. Schwertfager.
Calls may be made Tuesday from 6-8 p.m. at the Larson-Timko Funeral Home, 20 Central Ave., Fredonia, NY. A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at Holy Trinity Church, 1032 Central Ave., Dunkirk, NY, Wednesday morning at 10 a.m. (Please assemble at Church). A private interment will take place in Webster Cemetery. Flowers gratefully declined.
Memorial Contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society.
Her grandsons were the love of her life and "the apples of her eye." A special thanks to all her friends and the caring people who helped Marilyn and her family through the most difficult time of their lives. A very special thanks to her favorite Pastor and friend, Father Ray Donohue, for helping make her passing a blessed one.
Online condolences may be made at www.larsontimkofuneralhome.com.
Arrangements by David J. Dengler.
By the Observer
