Mrs. Jean G. (Hensel) Zurek

Mrs. Jean G. (Hensel) Zurek, beautiful wife, mother, grandmother, and sister, age 71, of Utica, passed away on Sunday, January 23, 2011 at the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center with the love and support of her family. Jean was born on May 25, 1939 in Utica, the daughter of the late Arthur and H. Doris (Tibbitts) Hensel. She will now meet her father again, who she adored and missed dearly. She was raised and educated locally, a graduate of Utica Free Academy. She was married to Barney W. Zurek who lovingly referred to her as Florence. As a couple, they shared love and mutual respect, and cared for each other in every way. Jean worked at the General Electric Company, Univac, and the Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired as a secretary. At home, Jean gave all for her family and set a good example for those who knew her. She spoke her beliefs and defended those around her, always fair and honest. Jean loved life and had a strong will to live. She enjoyed Friday nights that she spent with her sister-in-law, Melody “Mel” and her brother-in-law, Joe, who has since passed. She took pleasure in her trips to the casino, an interest she shared with her daughter, Tracy, and often walked away a winner! She loved to collect lady bugs and angels, and celebrate birthdays, a tradition she passed on to her daughters. Her favorite holiday was Christmas, a time to sing carols and share good cheer with family. The people who were blessed to have known Jean were able to appreciate how she put others first and what a truly strong woman she was. She was of the Protestant faith, a source of strength in her life. Jean is survived by her husband, Barney, who she lovingly referred to as “Dad” and was her best friend, soul mate, and love of her life; her sons and daughters-in-law, Robert “Bob” and Maria of Frankfort, and John and Jackie of Endicott; her daughters and sons-in-law, Tracy and Angelo, and Michele “Tutty” and Chris, who Jeannie loved like a son and who faithfully brought her the newspaper every morning, all of Utica; her 7 grandchildren, Breanna, Brandon, John, Jr., Ryan, Natalie, Candace and Paul, and Steven; and her great-granddaughter, Ella Rose, who in such a short period of time, has brought such joy to her great-grandmother. She will also be missed by her sisters, Joan Cassidy of Marcy, and Carol Mahar of Utica; her brother, Richard “Dick” Hensel of Utica; many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, in-laws, especially Melody Giacona; and her canine best friend, Cuddles. She was predeceased by her brother, Douglas Hensel; sister-in-law, Florence R. Hensel; and numerous in-laws. The family extends special thanks to the staff of the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center Critical Care Unit with special mention of Gina Inman for all the compassion she showed to Jean and her family during this difficult time. The family also expresses thanks to the staff of the Mohawk Valley Heart Institute, the CNY Cardiology physicians, especially Dr. Michael Kelberman, Dr. Mac Isaac, Dr. Darius Marhamati, and the personnel who were always so kind and generous to Jean when she had an appointment at their office; and the staff at the Marian Medical Lab who were always so kind and dear to Jean when she came in for her weekly blood draws, especially Betty, Barb, and Mirela. Jean’s family will honor and celebrate her life in a private gathering at the convenience of the family. For those wishing to express an act of kindness, please share a fond memory of Jean online at www.EannaceFuneralHome.com. Interment will take place in St. Agnes Cemetery. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave.

Mrs. Jean G. (Hensel) Zurek

May 25, 1939 - January 23, 2011