Theresa A. (Garfola) Schmitter

Mrs. Theresa A. (Garfola) Schmitter, of Oriskany, passed away on Thursday, July 9, 2009 at the Cleveland Clinic in Ohio, with her loving family by her side. Born in Utica, Theresa was the daughter of the late Samuel W. and Philomena C. “Phil” (Papa) Garfola. Raised and educated locally, she was a graduate of T. R. Proctor High School. On July 19, 1969 she married Robert A. Schmitter with whom she shared 40 years as true companions in life; as the heart of the family, they enjoyed the many occasions that brought their loved ones together. Theresa pursued her working career at various area companies, most recently as a receptionist for Dr. Scott Brehaut. Her thoughtfulness and generosity were often seen in the manner in which she remembered everyone in such a special way. Her family connections were true and endearing and she was loved by them as the one who embraced their needs and served as caretaker when someone needed support. Humor and laughter were important facets in her life. The greatest of her joys came from her daughter, Kristin, and her family which now includes her most recent gift of happiness, a granddaughter, who was born during her illness. She was always supportive of the activities of her daughter and her niece, Allisen, especially when they were younger and involved with school and extracurricular events. She was a great shopper and a collector of shoes and purses, and she treasured her annual trips to Florida to visit her family. She was a communicant of St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church. Theresa is survived by her husband, Robert; her daughter and son-in-law, Kristin and Andrew Hare of Brockville, Ontario; and her grandchildren, Kayla Elizabeth “Princess”, and newborn, Emma Pearl. A special motherly love and bond existed between Theresa and her “son”, Dr. Scott Brehaut, as well as his wife, Laura, and children, Ian, and Ella. Survivors also include her sister and brother-in-law, Angela A. and David J. Bernholz of Deerfield; her brother and sister-in-law, Samuel A. “Sam” and Regina Garfola of Lake Worth, FL; her nieces and nephews, Joseph Majka, Allisen and Gerald Learnard, Valerie and Steve Cartagena, Melissa Garfola and fiancé Tim Gosser, Shawn O’Connor, Victoria Del Rosario, and Catherine Del Rosario; cousins, especially acknowledging Annette Moore who was a pillar of support; an aunt and uncle, Angelo and Clara Papa; in-laws, Jane and Rolf Buchner, and Richard and Bonnie Schmitter. She also leaves her loyal canine companion, “Storm”. She was predeceased by her in-laws, Emil and Winifred (Edic) Schmitter. The family is grateful to the outstanding physicians, nurses, and staff members of the Cleveland Clinic who were of great support and comfort, and who displayed outstanding professionalism while caring for Theresa. Visitation will be held Tuesday (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. Theresa’s funeral service will commence on Wednesday morning at 9:30 from the funeral home and at 10:30 at St. Anthony & St. Agnes Church where her Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated. A graveside service will follow with interment in Calvary Cemetery. “Even though we cannot see you with our eyes, you will live on in our hearts forever”.