Audrey J. (Tallman) Kiefl

Mrs. Audrey J. (Tallman) Kiefl, age 84, of Utica, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, January 29, 2010 in the comfort and privacy of her home with the love and support of her family. Born in Utica on July 18, 1925, Audrey was the daughter of the late Kenneth and Hilda (Schreck) Tallman. Raised and educated in Utica, she graduated from Utica Free Academy in 1943 and furthered her education at Morrisville State College where she earned a degree in Nursing. On November 1, 1952 she married Edward J. Kiefl with whom she shared 43 years prior to his passing on January 14, 1996; they were “blessed with a wonderful marriage filled with ups and downs, but with many more memorable ups.” Audrey began her working career at Broadacres Nursing Home, and worked primarily as a private duty nurse for many years. She was well-suited for her profession because of her compassionate nature and the devotion she shared with those entrusted to her care. Her family was one of her greatest joys, and she shared her values and ideals with them, especially her adored teenage grandchildren with whom she spent many memorable times. During a period of her life she connected with the “Y Teens”, who benefited from her motherly ways and wisdom. Audrey’s personality was sparkling and she had a special way of sharing her love and concern. For relaxation she enjoyed solving word searches and playing the card game “garbage”. She had a knack for knitting and was known for her handmade Christmas stockings; it may be true that they have circulated throughout the entire world by way of her generosity. She was a communicant of the Church of Our Lady of Lourdes. Audrey is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Vanessa A. and Joseph Sowich of New Hartford; her sons and daughter-in-law, John K. and Kimberly Kiefl of East Syracuse, and Michael E. Kiefl of Utica; her grandchildren, Christina Sowich , Jennifer Kiefl, Lindsey Kiefl, Michael and Alka Sowich, and Michelle and Ken Shanley; and her great-grandchildren, Anjali, Ayanna, and Alyssa. Survivors also include her sister and brother-in-law, Nancy and Phil Snyder of Utica; several nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and in-laws, Shirley Tallman, Richard Bemis, and Roger and Barbara Kiefl. She was predeceased by her brother, William Tallman; and her sister, Marion Bemis. The family is grateful to Dr. Julie Betro-Shkane, and the staff of the St. Elizabeth Medical Center Family Practice for their compassion and professionalism. A special thank-you is offered to Audrey’s blessed friend, Sheila Biamonte, for her love and enduring loyalty. Visitation will be held Monday (today) from 4:00-7:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. By family request, please omit floral offerings. For those wishing to do so, please consider memorial donations in Audrey’s honor to the American Breast Cancer Society; envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Audrey’s funeral service will commence on Tuesday morning at 10:00 from the funeral home and at 11:00 at the Church of Our Lady of Lourdes where her Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated. Interment will take place in St. Joseph’s Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Audrey J. (Tallman) Kiefl

July 18, 1925 - January 29, 2010