In Memory of Mary Ann Kalynycz

Obituary

Mary Ann Kalynycz, age 85, of Rome, NY, passed away on Friday, July 7, 2023 at the Mohawk Valley Rehabilitation and Nursing Center in Utica, NY.

Born in Perth Amboy, New Jersey on June 29, 1938, to Mary and Michael S. Kovach, Mary Ann spent most of her childhood in Port Leyden, NY. In 1956, she graduated from General Martin Central School in Glenfield, NY and went on to receive her Nursing Degree from the Utica School for Practical Nursing. Caring for others was her nature. She worked as a Licensed Practical Nurse at Faxton Hospital prior to raising her family. In June of 1962, Mary Ann married John Kalynycz Jr. While her kids were in school, Mary Ann worked for Whitesboro High School as a Hall Monitor and Supervisor of Attendance. She took great pride in her work, and retired in 2000 following over 25 years of service.

Love of family and a playful essence guided Mary Ann through life. For years, Mary Ann coached within a youth bowling league at Riverside Lanes in Marcy, NY. Along with bowling, she most enjoyed joking around, conquering puzzles of all kinds, reading, crafting, board games and card games, bingo, and following her favorite NFL team, the NY Giants. She attended St. John the Baptist Church. Most of all, Mary Ann cherished time with her family. In life and through her written word, Mary Ann taught us that youth is not wasted on the young.

Mary Ann is survived by her son Joseph Kalynycz of Rome, NY, her daughters and sons-in-law, Frances (Andrew) Wagner of Rome, NY and Linda (Gregory) Kelahan of Watkins Glen, NY, grandchildren, Richard and Hannah Wagner, Alaina and Glenna Kelahan, nieces, nephews and cousins. Her grandchildren will affectionately remember her as “Silly G.” (Silly Grandma).

She was pre-deceased by her mother, father and brothers George and Michael (her twin).

The family is grateful for the compassion and care provided by the staffs of the Lutheran Home in Clinton, and the Mohawk Valley Rehabilitation and Nursing Center during her stays.

Services will be held privately. Interment will be in the St. John the Baptist Cemetery in Rome. Arrangements are with the Friedel, Williams & Edmunds Funeral and Cremation Services, Utica.

In memory of Mary Ann, share a favorite joke with others, gather your family or friends around the table for a board game or simply take a moment to play. Enjoy the fun and laughter.

For online expressions of sympathy go to www.fwefh.com.