Obituaries

Freeville -- Marian Elizabeth Traphagen, age 63, passed away peacefully after a courageous battle with cancer, on Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 9, 2010.

Born December 28, 1946, in Ithaca, Marian was a lifelong resident of Tompkins County.   She was employed at Cornell University and later as a teacher’s aide with the Dryden School District, retiring in 2004.  Marian enjoyed life to the fullest, doing things she loved like reading, traveling in her motor home, gardening, going to the casino, being on her boat, shopping and watching her favorite show ‘The Andy Griffith Show’. Most of all Marian loved to spend time with her family.  She was a loving mother for 33 years and a darling wife for 34 years.  Marian has been an inspiration to all of us and will be loved and missed every day.

Survivors include her loving husband, Robert Traphagen; their three sons, David (Michelle Burling), James, Matthew (Crystal Pendock); grandchildren, Nathan and Ashlyn; brothers, Roger (Bonnie) Bower, Jimmy (Sharron) Bower; sisters, Carmelita Mix (Dick Pinney), Connie Woodrow and Cheryl (Russell) Doucette; brother-in-law, John (Sharon) Traphagan; her beloved dog, Tessa; and a large extended family.

Marian was preceded in death by her parents, Frederick and Helen (Searles) Bower; brother-in-law, Robert Mix; daughter-in-law, Sherry Traphagen; and her husband’s parents, Elwood and Thelma (Conklin) Traphagen.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial contribution in Marian’s name to Ithaca Breast Cancer Alliance, 100 W. Seneca St., Ithaca, NY 14850.

In keeping with Marian’s wishes, services will be private.  The Traphagen family will receive relatives and close friends at their home on Thursday, May 13th from 4:30-6:30pm.

Lansing Funeral Home is assisting the family.