Mrs. Marie A. (Deitz) Sambor

Mrs. Marie A. (Deitz) Sambor, age 87, of Utica, went home to be with the Lord when she passed away peacefully on Thursday, June 14, 2012 at the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center with the love and support of her family. Marie was born in Utica on January 10, 1925, the daughter of the late Leslie C., Sr. and Clara (Nerschl) Deitz. Raised and educated locally, she attended T.R. Proctor High School. She also studied at the Utica School of Commerce for business training. On November 7, 1953 she married Stephen S. Sambor with whom she kept sacred the vows of her 52 year marriage until his passing on August 7, 2006. Marie had a solid work ethic, a keen business sense, and a charming demeanor – all the elements which lead her to a fulfilled life and career. She held positions in several downtown stores, businesses, and the local Hotel and Restaurant Union; serving her employers and customers with the highest of standards. She was the proprietor of Stephen’s Jewelers, originally located on lower Genesee Street, which was one of her proudest accomplishments. The best 25 years of her life were spent associated with New York State Teamsters, local #182 where she was the private Secretary to the President. Among her many ventures was her partnership in 1980 with her daughter, Donna, in Stephen & Co. Jewelers in downtown Utica. Marie was a generous humanitarian and a lady in all situations. A woman of style and grace, she was outwardly stunning, but it was her inner beauty that was most admired. She had an artistic ability and a flair for fashion and she knew how to coordinate and dress impeccably. A lover of art, she attended MWPAI. Modest and dignified, Marie was understatedly elegant in her persona and articulate in her mannerisms. A gentle soul, she graciously greeted others with such warm regard. A hospitable host, she was a fabulous cook, and she added her unique creative style to many ordinary dishes. She also had a natural rhythm to her step which enhanced her lively dance moves and her appreciation of various styles of dancing. Marie was the center of her family’s special occasions, and the catalyst of gathering her loved ones together; she also loved social outings and family picnics, and in later years enjoyed RVing with her family. She was a lover of the games of chance. Her most heartwarming accomplishments were the blessings of her 2 children and the joy and purpose they gave to her life. Her granddaughter Stephanie was a rebirth for Marie and an added love in her life. She was also proud of her city, and loved residing here, always nostalgic of downtown in bygone days. She was a member of Gamma Chi and served as a past Vice-President. Her Catholic spirituality resided deep in her soul. She was a member of the Christ Child Society, and a communicant of the Church of Our Lady of Lourdes. Marie is survived by her beloved daughter and son-in-law, Donna M. Sambor-Pratt and her husband Roger of Whitesboro. Always cherished in her heart was the memory of her son, Gary Stephen Sambor, who passed away on December 16, 1986. She also leaves her cherished granddaughter, Stephanie Marie and her husband Garrett Morgan; her adored great-granddaughter, Lillyan Grace; her sister Jeanette Mills with whom she shared a relationship that was precious beyond words, and her husband Billy of Whitesboro; many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and in-laws MarieAnn Strassberger and her husband Robert, and Thaddeus Sambor. Also left to remember her are her godchildren, Jennifer, Debra, and Craig. Friendships were sacred and truly meaningful to Marie, and she genuinely loved dining out with “the girls” which was a highlight in her more recent life. In addition, Marie had a fondness for her family canine “Rosie”. She was predeceased by her sister and brother-in-law Doris and Jack Kennedy; her brother, Leslie C. Deitz, Jr.; and her in-laws, Janet Sambor, and Leon and Garnet Sambor. Marie also held close the memory of many dear and loyal friends who preceded her. The family extends sincere thank you’s to Susan Griffing, NP who gave Marie professional guidance and was a true friend who lovingly shared concern and compassion; family friend Joanne McKelvey who was invaluable before and during Marie’s illness. A unique and treasured bond existed between Marie and Darlene Anthony, and she could count on her for anything at any time. Also among her dear friends was Francesca Zarelli. Gratitude is also held for the staff of Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center, attending physicians including Dr.Dilip Kachare, Dr. Maria Gesualdo, Dr. Ramzi Nassif, and the 5th floor staff, especially RN’s Trisha, Stephanie, and Tina; nurses’ aides, Ian and Stephanie; CCU personnel particularly acknowledging RN’s Toni, Rhonda, and Judy – they are all outstanding, compassionate people who made all the difference in Marie’s care. Visitation will be held Sunday from 2:00-5:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Marie’s funeral service and Celebration of Life which will commence on Monday morning at 10:30 at the Church of Our Lady of Lourdes where her Mass of Christian Burial and Committal prayers will be offered by Rev. Joseph Salerno. Expressions of sympathy in lieu of flowers may be made in the form of donations to the Thea Bowman House in deference to Marie’s love for children; envelopes will be available at the funeral home.

Mrs. Marie A. (Deitz) Sambor

January 10, 1925 - June 14, 2012