Celebrating Shirley B
Happy Birthday to Shirley, who turns 93 years young on March 8!
Shirley has been part of church life for most of her life and feels especially at home here at the United Church of Canandaigua. One of her favorite hymns is “Hymn of Promise,” and her favorite Bible verse is John 3:16, both reflecting her steady faith and hopeful spirit.
Before retiring, Shirley spent many years working in the Riverhead school district. She also shared in running two family businesses. With her first husband, Joe Goleski, she co-owned Eastport Beverage Company for 28 years. Later, with her husband John Braun, she helped run the Braun family’s fourth-generation vineyard, Glenside Vineyards.
Shirley enjoys spending time with friends, playing cards, watching sports, taking photographs, and playing the keyboard. She also loves nature, reading, and relaxing with a good TV show. Though she once enjoyed baking, she now happily admits she’s “spoiled.”
Now in her eleventh year at Ferris Hills, Shirley is grateful for the residents, staff, and the community she calls home. She has also recently joined our Senior Companion Circle, and we are excited to spend time with her, learning from her wisdom and sharing meaningful conversation.
Shirley describes herself as content, and that joy and gratitude shine through her life. Happy Birthday, Shirley! We’re so glad to celebrate you!
Celebrating Mary Lou H.
Happy 90th birthday to Mary Lou H. on March 10th!
Reflecting on the memories and milestones of her membership in the United Church, Mary Lou recalled that she was baptized, along with her daughter, Michelle, in 1957. She joined the church that same day, and has served in various capacities during her 68 year membership, including the Board of Stewards, the Official Board, and the Missions Committee (which holds a special place in her heart). Asked how she has been “the hands and feet” of God, Mary Lou recalled the special mission trips to Mexico, her continued involvement in Cameron Ministries in Rochester, baking desserts and providing food for church events, and especially her personal connections for the Senior Companions during her tenure as a Steward. Mary Lou comes from a large family, and has a large family, but she is very grateful and thankful for her church family, who have provided her with much love and support throughout the years.
Celebrating Mary O.
On March 17th, Eleanor “Mary” O. is celebrating her 102nd Birthday!
It’s no surprise that she’s our oldest member! Mary enjoys the staff at The Friendly Home, where she recently moved, and the staff loves her smile and beautiful spirit. She still reads the Daily Messenger where she looks for the Sudoku puzzle! She’s sharp as a tack when discussing family news, politics, and world news; what a gal, born in 1924! Happy 102nd Birthday dear Mary! written by Virginia H
Celebrating “Mac”
We are excited to celebrate “Mac” M.’s 98th birthday this month.
Mac and his lovely wife Ernestine have seven sons with many grand and great grandchildren which they love spending time with them.
They have a nice apartment attached to their son & daughter in law’s home ( John & Jen E.).
Mac lived in Hilton NY for 50 years before moving to Canandaigua. During the warmer months, he and Ernie enjoy staying at their camp at Cape Vincent overlooking the Saint Lawrence River. He was a guide on a tour boat for a few years that took customers around the islands. Just ask him any questions about the Thousand Island region, he knows the answer! Another thing Mac is known for are the model ships that he builds for his family members. These ships are 2 ½’ feet wide by 18” high and are very intricate and time consuming to construct. His grandson Scott, received the last one. It has 18 sails, 43 cannons and is called the USS America. It takes Mac about 8 months to complete each ship. So far, he has made 7 ships of this size.
Mac is a joy to talk to, and always has entertaining stories to share. We wish him a big Happy 98th birthday on March 22nd!
