Marilyn Schaeffer passed away peacefully at the age of 89 on Sat. March 6, 2021 at her place of residence, St. Luke Health Services in Oswego, NY. Marilyn was predeceased by her husband of over 60 years, Arthur, in 2008 and her son, Lynn, in 2010. Marilyn is survived by her daughter Susan (Howard) Olinsky of Oswego/Syracuse, NY and grandchildren Jordan Olinsky of Houston, TX, Christopher (Stephanie) Schaeffer of Webster, NY and Andrew Schaeffer of Redondo Beach, CA. In addition she leaves behind three great grandchildren – Addison, Mason & Breccan Schaeffer, her sister, Cyd Dispenza, of Southwick, MA, nieces and cousins.
Marilyn was born in Fillmore, NY Oct 12, 1931, daughter of Elizabeth and George Dispenza. After marrying her high school sweetheart, she and Art eventually moved to Fairport, NY where they spent most of their working years. They spent their retirement years in Lyons, NY and then moved to Oswego, NY to be closer to family.
Marilyn’s most proud accomplishment was graduating from SUNY Brockport with a degree in Community Health Education, but was known by her family as a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother. She enjoyed being a homemaker and caring for others in addition to quilting, needlework and traveling. She and Art spent their retirement years devoted to the restoration of an historic home. Marilyn was involved in many church and civic organizations and loved spending time in the mountains with her family and socializing with friends. She enjoyed music and attending concerts, especially those given by her children and grandchildren and was extremely proud of their accomplishments.
Marilyn will be laid to rest in Mt. Pleasant Cemetery in Fairport, NY next to her husband and son. There will be a burial/graveside service at the convenience of the family.
Donations in Marilyn’s honor may be made to the National Parkinson’s Foundation, American Parkinson’s Disease Association or to the Michael J. Fox Foundation.