Pasqualina R. "Lena" (DeBrango) Ollerenshaw

Mrs. Pasqualina R. “Lena” (DeBrango) Ollerenshaw, age 76, of Utica, passed away on Monday, February 02, 2009 at the Masonic Care Community of NY with the support and love of her family. Born in Utica on April 26, 1932, Pasqualina was the daughter of the late Pasquale and Marietta (Pesce) DeBrango. She was raised and educated in Utica and was a 1951 graduate of T. R. Proctor High School. On November 3, 1956 she married Robert H. “Ollie” Ollerenshaw who passed away on July 19, 2002; they were dedicated to each other and family life during their 45 years together. Lena was the matriarch of her family and devoted herself to her husband and her six sons whom she loved so deeply. Her home was the center of all celebrations where she prepared bountiful meals, was known for her variety of baked goods and her ability to tend to each family members desires. She was a hard contender at family Scrabble games and she enjoyed games of chance. Many in the community admired her for her kindness, and she set the gold standard for friendship, serving as a confidante to many and was truly a Christian woman. A lifetime member of St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish, she was devoted to her church, its societies especially the “busy bodies”, the parish festival where she devoted her cooking and baking talents, and her humble leadership role that mentored many. She found consolation in volunteering at the Hope House, the Rescue Mission, and the Bereavement Support Group at her church. Lena loved the Adirondacks and the serenity and peacefulness especially during the fall months. Her trip to Italy was her first airplane travel and she was thrilled to visit her heritage and experience the spiritual holiness of the Vatican. Unbeknownst to Lena, her positive attitude and her grounded values offered security and encouragement to those who sought her wisdom. Her faith was the foundation of her life, and the intimate relationship she shared with her God was unconditional. May she rest in peace and may her good works accompany her. Lena is survived by her sons and daughters-in-law, Robert “Bobby” and Vicki Ollerenshaw of Chenango Forks, NY, Gary Ollerenshaw and his friend, Brian Thompson; John C. Ollerenshaw and his fiancée, Gloria Brewer, all of Utica; Louis J. Ollerenshaw of Westmoreland and his friend, Lisa Shuman; and Francis and Cynthia Ollerenshaw of Marcy. Always close to her heart was the memory of her son, David Ollerenshaw, who passed away on July 25, 2007. In addition, she leaves her cherished grandchildren, Rebecca, Christopher, and Joseph; Andrea and fiancé, John Cappelli; Nicole, and John James; Krista, and Louis, Jr.; and Francis J., Isabella, Julia, and Robert Henry; several nieces and nephews, including Ann Marie Mizgala and Anthony Ferris, Mary and John Russo and their children, and Michael Wicks; and her cousins. Lena was also blessed with many wonderful friendships that filled her life with joy and laughter. Her feline companion “Fluffy” brought her much joy. She was predeceased by her sisters and brothers-in-law, Angeline and Peter Mizgala and Vincenzia “Chancy” and William C. Wicks; and her brother, John DeBrango. The family extends gratitude to the entire staff of the Troy Unit of the Masonic Care Community of NY, especially Tracy Suiter for the outstanding and wonderful care rendered to Lena with much love and respect; her friends, neighbors, and those of the parish community who have been so supportive and kind during Lena’s illness; and the support, spiritual guidance and bond of friendship that was offered by Fr. John Rose which was so meaningful. Visitation will be held Friday (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. Lena’s funeral service and celebration of life will commence on Saturday morning at 10:30 from the funeral home and at 11:30 at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish where her Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated. Interment will take place in St. Agnes Cemetery.

Pasqualina R. "Lena" (DeBrango) Ollerenshaw

April 26, 1932 - February 2, 2009