Marcella passed away peacefully on January 10, 2022, with the comfort of her loved ones at her side. She was the daughter of the late Hal and Regina VanAuken (Endicott, NY). She was also predeceased by sisters Marion Stone and Alice Ellis, by brothers Robert, Donald, Wayne, Harold and James VanAuken. She is survived by her loving husband of 56 years, Daniel, daughter Kathleen, sons Michael and Christopher (Sheila), grandchildren Calista, Melena, Amber and Camille. Also surviving are her sisters Winifred (Gerald) Agan and Rita DelSanto and sister-in-law Marianne VanAuken.
Marcella worked various retail jobs while focusing on raising her children. At the age of 53 she pursued a career as a phlebotomist and retired from Lourdes hospital in 2004. She volunteered for the American Cancer Society for several years providing transportation and support to cancer patients.
She was sharp witted with a wonderful sense of humor and relished making people laugh right up through her final days. She was an avid reader and enjoyed puzzles and gardening. She was very proud of her grandchildren and enjoyed her time with them and her family. She had a very special spot for the dogs that were lucky enough to have her as a “mom”.
The family would like to extend a special thanks to the Bridgewater Nursing home nurses and staff for the compassion and care provided over the past two years, as well as the family and friends that stood by her during her battle with Alzheimer’s.
In lieu of flowers, please kindly consider donations to Broome County Office for Aging, Yesteryears Program, PO Box 1766, Binghamton NY 13902 or The Humane Society, 167 Conklin Ave, Binghamton, NY 13903
The family will receive friends from 11 am until noon with a memorial service following on Friday January 28th at Allen Memorial Home, Endicott, NY.