Marie I. Calandra left this world on Sunday November 12, 2023, to be reunited with the love of her life, Anthony (Tony) Calandra. Marie was a devoted daughter, wife, aunt, sister, godmother, and friend to all. Marie was predeceased by her husband Anthony (Tony) Calandra, parents Patsy and Josephine Turrigiano, sister Vinnie (Joe) Convertino, and special furry companion Prince.
Marie’s organization and attention to detail made her excel as a secretary at A.L. George and IBM for over 50 years. Her love of children and making people smile led her to become Mrs. Cookie the clown, where she delighted the children at private parties and community events with her balloon animals, face painting and silly antics. Marie started the “Cookie Bus” tours because of her love of live music, dancing, comedians and festivals. She wanted to bring the “people to the talent” and you were guaranteed to receive a box of her delicious homemade Italian cookies at every trip. Marie was the “queen” at baking her delicious Italian cookies, desserts, and pizza. She will forever be known for making the BEST cannoli.
Marie was very devoted to her religion. She belonged to the Stephen Ministries at St. Patrick’s Church in Owego and was a Eucharistic minister with St. Josephs in Endicott for years. Together Marie and Tony hosted the annual Santo Padre Pio of Pietrelcina events for all their close friends and relatives. If there was a church bazaar, festival, dinner, pierogi or halupki sale, Marie would be there working, buying or donating.
Marie was very proud of her Italian heritage and history. One of her favorite past times was telling stories of her father’s pasta factory on Squires Ave and all her neighbors, friends and family that lived near them while growing up in Endicott. Marie loved her stories and always told them with passion and excitement. Marie was the President of the Bill Flynn Polka Club and enjoyed going to all the dances with Tony and their friends. She was a member of the Susquehanna Sweethearts and would love to entertain at some of the events, doing impressions of Al Jolson, playing instruments, and telling jokes. She always brought smiles to people wherever she went.
Marie was blessed with many good friends throughout her life.
A graveside service will be at St. Patrick’s Cemetery in Owego on November 17th, 2023, at 2pm. In lieu of flowers, Marie requested donations to a charity of your choice.