Mary (Opalenick) Fabrizio passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on Tuesday, October 24, 2023 following a brief and sudden illness. She was 89 years old.
Mary was born on August 9,1934. She was raised in Endicott, New York where she met the future love of her life, Edward, at the age of 9. They grew up on the North Side of Endicott as friends and companions, then married on June 26, 1954. Together, they lovingly raised their family in their home in West Endicott.
Mary was a wonderful mother and grandmother who embraced life. She was happiest when she was caring for others. She delighted in hosting many celebrations for her family, extended family, and neighbors. She loved to cook and bake, and no one ever left her kitchen table hungry. It was always said, “When Mary throws a party, everyone eats hearty.”
After her children had grown, Mary went to work as a secretary for the Endicott Fire Department. She made many friends and enjoyed the job thoroughly. Upon retirement, she cherished her new role as a grandmother. Providing daily child care for her grandchildren, attending their school recitals, and taking them on special outings always brought her and Ed much pleasure and pride.
For many years while her grandchildren were growing up, the entire family reunited for an annual week-long trip to the Maine beach. It was the highlight of their year, and having her whole family together was her ultimate joy. Her family will forever treasure the memories they created together.
Mary was predeceased by her parents, John and Mary Opalenick, and two brothers, Monsignor Rev. John Opalenick and Joseph Opalenick. She is survived by her adoring husband, Edward Fabrizio; her children, Bernadette Fabrizio of Endicott, N.Y., Mary Lou Dionne-Fabrizio (Carole) of Wells, ME., Ann Marie Smith (Randy) of Phoenix, AZ., and Edward Fabrizio (Jami) of Endicott, N.Y; her grandchildren, Damon Smith of Phoenix, AZ, and Julianna and Eddie Fabrizio of Endicott, NY. She is also survived by her brother, Peter Opalenick (Jane) of Nichols, N.Y.; sister-in-law, Palma Colonna; brother-in-law, Mario Fabrizio (Aggie); sister-in-law, Mary Opalenick, and many nieces and nephews.
Visitings hours will be held on Monday, October 30, 2023 from 3-5pm at Allen Memorial Home, 511 East Main Street, Endicott, NY. A mass to honor Mary’s life will be celebrated at St. Ambrose Catholic Church, 203 Washington Ave. Endicott, NY on Tuesday, October 31, 2023, 1 pm. A reception will follow the ceremony. Burial will be at Calvary Cemetery on November 1, 2023.
The family wishes to express their gratitude for the compassionate care Mary received by the staff at Wilson Memorial Hospital and the Palliative Care Unit at Binghamton General Hospital. Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared with the family at www.allenmemorial.com. In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial contribution made to UHS Palliative Medicine Services,10-42 Mitchell Avenue, Binghamton, N.Y. 13903.