NORWICH – Genevieve D. Close, 94, of Norwich, passed away on Sunday, May 11, 2014 at home with family at her side.
Genevieve was born on Aug.18, 1919 in DesMoines, Iowa the daughter of Frank and Genevieve (Allen) Dunham. She attended the Norwich High School from which she graduated in 1936. She worked in the Insurance business for many years. Genevieve first worked with the Turner Insurance Agency for a period of 10 years then for the John C. Stott Agency for 35 years. She remained with the Stott Agency thru the transition into the Mirabito Insurance Agency.
Genevieve was a long time member of the Broad St. United Methodist Church of Norwich and was a member of the United Methodist Women (UMW). She was also one of the founding members of the soup and sandwich program at the church. In addition to her church activities, Genevieve volunteered many hours at the Northeast Classic Car Museum as well as the Red Cross.
On July 6, 1950 she married Philip C. Close who passed away in Feb. 1992.
Genevieve is survived by her son Michael D. Close and wife Mena of Norwich, her grandchildren Nicholas Close of Boston, MA, Jessica Richardson and husband Shayne of Norwich, Neal Somers and wife Nina of Maui, HI, her great grandchildren Cameron, Colby and Emma Richardson all of Norwich and Miranda Somers of Maui, HI. Also surviving is her niece Barb Shirdon, her nephew Max Stevens along with many great nieces and great nephews.
Besides her husband Philip, Genevieve was predeceased by her sisters Elaine Stevens and Kathryn Kolfrat, her brother Wayne Dunham, nieces Mariene Long, Jeanne Hackett and Lonnie Stevens and a cousin Janet Lockwood.
A memorial service for Genevieve will be held on Tuesday, May 20, at 11 a.m. from the Broad St. United Methodist Church. The Rev. Nancy Hale, Pastor, will officate. The Eulogy will be given by her daughter-in-law Mena Close. A luncheon will follow the memorial service.
Interment will be held on Thursday, May 22, at 10 a.m. from the Mt. Hope Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to the Broad St. United Methodist Church, 74, No. Broad St., Norwich, NY 13815, the Northeast Classic Car Museum, 22-26 Rexford St., Norwich, NY 13815 or to Hospice & Palliative Care of Chenango County, 21 Hayes St., Norwich, NY 13815.
Arrangements are with the R.J.Fahy Funeral Home.