Margaret Frances (McDowell) Ischia

Mrs. Margaret Frances “Peg” (McDowell) Ischia, age 82, formerly of Blossvale, passed away on Wednesday, March 15, 2006 at the Sunset Nursing Home in Boonville where she currently resided. Her passing occurred after an extended illness. Born in Florence NY on July 24, 1923, Margaret was the daughter of the late Archer and Mary (Hayes) McDowell. She was raised and educated in Camden NY; she then continued her studies by attending nursing school in Oneida NY. On March 8, 1945, she married Herbert N. Ischia with whom she shared a union of 58 years prior to his passing on April 28, 2003. At one time Mrs. Ischia held a position with the Rome City School District. However, the major and memorable part of her professional experience was in the employ of the GAFB Hospital where she practiced her nursing career in the Newborn Nursery of the hospital’s Maternity Ward. She retired from her duties there after many years of loyal and conscientious service. As a woman who was especially adept at balancing all aspects of her life, Peg not only maintained a successful career, but she also was an exemplary family woman and homemaker. Her sons were the loves of her life, and she devoted herself, her time, and her efforts to her family. Although every moment spent with her loved ones was precious, she especially enjoyed the times when they gathered for holiday celebrations or special occasions. At these times, she liked to delight her family with her excellent cooking, a favorite pursuit at which she was very skilled. Among her leisure interests, Peg especially loved to travel, and she was an avid card player. She also enjoyed time spent relaxing and socializing at her camp at Fish Creek. She was a deeply spiritual woman, steadfastly devoted to her beliefs and values. She was of the Catholic faith. Mrs. Ischia is survived by 2 sons and daughters-in-law, Martin A. and Ellen S. Ischia of Lowville NY, and Tim and Dorothy “Dottie” Ischia of Stittville NY; 6 grandchildren, Jason and Jennifer Ischia of Baltimore MD, Jeremy Ischia of Albany NY, Brittany Ischia of Lowville, Lee Belair of N. Utica, Stephen and Judy LaPorte, and Aimee LaPorte, all of CO; and 3 great-grandchildren, Jenna Belair, Stephen LaPorte Jr., and Kristen LaPorte. She is also survived by 2 brothers and a sister-in-law, James and Pat McDowell of Pittsburgh PA, and John “Jack” McDowell of FL; several nieces and nephews; and a special friend, Harrison “Harry” Preston of Utica. The family offers its sincere thanks to the doctors, nurses, and staff of the Sunset Nursing Home in Boonville for the love and caring concern with which they attended Peg. Visitation will be held (today) Sunday from 2-5 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Mrs. Ischia’s funeral will commence on Monday at 9:30 from the funeral home and at 10:30 at St. Anthony of Padua Church where her Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated. Interment will take place in St. John’s Cemetery in Camden NY at the convenience of the family.

Margaret Frances (McDowell) Ischia

July 24, 1923 - March 15, 2006