Obituary

Marion Raeder, 96

Posted

Marion Raeder, a long-time resident of Valley Stream, died on Feb. 18 in Kennett Square, Pa. following a brief illness. She was 96.

Raeder moved with her family to Bismark Avenue in Valley Stream as a child in 1923. She attended Brooklyn Avenue School and graduated from Central High School in 1934. Along with her family, she was a member of Holy Name of Mary Parish. When her father died at a young age, her mother went to work as a cook in the parish house. Raeder and her sisters, even as children, helped with the family finances by washing dishes in the kitchen. She could still be found at daily mass into her 80s.

After high school, Marion went to work for the N.Y. Telephone Company where she rose to a position of supervisor. She retired from AT&T after more than 40 years of employment and retained her connection through the Pioneers. Other organizations which she joined and supported include the Mercy League, the St. John’s Auxiliary, the Valley Stream Historical Society and the high school alumni organization.

In 1961, along with her mother and sister, Philomena, she purchased property on Coecles Harbor in Shelter Island. The cottage on the property, nicknamed Kinhearth, became a gathering place where countless family and friends were welcomed with much generosity and love throughout the passing summers right up to the present. Since 1981, a second family compound developed at Siesta Key, Fla., where a condo was rented and folks were always welcome.

Raeder’s interests included travel, opera, ballet and being with her family.

Arrangements are being handled by Edward F. Lieber Funeral Home, with visitation March 10 and a mass at Holy Name of Mary Church on March 11 at 10:45 a.m.