Friday, February 17, 2023
I met Connie 55 years ago. It was my first year teaching and she & I became neighbors on the BCES kindergarten wing. Before autumn leaves fell that school year, Connie was my mentor, adopted mom and forever friend.
Connie was a lifelong learner. Whatever she wanted to do, she took on, bringing many of those around her along with her. Our classrooms filled with adapted, repaired, redesigned, reinvented equipment & teaching activities. Her folded paper grasshopper was genius and made me laugh every year I pulled out the insect unit. My house also filled with Connie - a refinished kitchen hutch reclaimed from the attic, re-caned oak chairs, a semi upholstered cedar chest - they all live to this day. That I did these projects myself with Connie’s tutelage, is a source of pride. Christmas never begins until the angel mobile Connie gifted me is hung. My walls have Connie’s artistic fabric hangings & my feet get warmed under her friendship guilt. The first quilt she presented me was a tiny blue pieced quilt for my dollhouse. My recipe file is packed with Stangel recipes - from pecan puffs to her version of a deconstructed chicken cordon bleu.
Connie’s love and support through some painful days & her honesty and guidance as change rocked my life was always a strength I leaned into these 55 years of our friendship. She was there for me no matter what.
Connie remains here with me every day. My heart is full of gratitude that Connie entered my life. Chris, David, Peter, Jim, your mom sent ripples out into the world & touched others. It was her “mission” in life to make others better. She touched so many and I am certain she will continue to spread her generosity even further. My sympathy & love to you and your families. Carol Lake
Liberty, NY 845-292-7160
Woodbourne, NY 845-434-7363
Livingston Manor, NY 845-439-4333