NORWICH – Elsie J. (Enggaard) Cusma, 90, formerly of 15 Francis Ave., Norwich, passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 9, 2006 at Chenango Memorial Nursing Home in Norwich.
Born on June 30, 1916 in Chicago, Illinois, Elsie was the daughter of Carl and Joanne (Hansen) Enggaard. Elsie was a graduate of Greene High School. She was an accomplished basketball player throughout high school and was captain of the varsity team. She continued to love the sport throughout her life and was an avid fan of the Syracuse Orangemen.
She had been employed for 28 years by United Airlines at the Washington DC International Airport and received a commendation for her outstanding service to the company. She retired in 1971.
Elsie was a member of the Smithville Center United Methodist Church and the Ladies of the Elks and Ladies of the Moose. She was also a member of the Chenango Memorial Hospital Auxiliary and the American Red Cross.
On October 29, 1951, Elsie married Joseph Cusma, also employed by United Airlines. After Joe’s passing away in 1979, Elsie returned to Chenango County, living in Norwich for over 25 years.
Elsie was a fun loving character who enjoyed nothing more than ramming around in her car. If not in her car, she was often seen in her running suit walking around Norwich or riding her bike.
She was a member of the Ladies Auxiliary of Chenango Memorial Hospital, volunteering there for more than 20 years. She was also a member of the Ladies of the Elks No. 1222, the American Red Cross Chenango County Chapter, the Women’s Moose Auxiliary WOTM, and the Smithville Center Methodist Church
Elsie was predeceased by her husband of 28 years, Joseph Cusma; her brother, Paul Enggaard; and her sister, Maize Kirchbaum.
She is survived by her sister, Helen Robb of Oxford, her twin sisters; Kathleen (Kay) Bridges and Margaret (Peg) Clement, both of Morris; her brother, John Enggaard of Chicago and several nieces and nephews as well as several grand nieces and nephews.
There will be a private family funeral and interment arranged by the Wilson Funeral Home. There will be no calling hours. She will be laid to rest next to her beloved husband, Joe, in Sylvan Lawn Cemetery in Greene.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Elsie’s name to the Chenango County SPCA, the Smithville Center Methodist Church, or individual favorite charities.