Obituary of Marlene Mary DiMaggio

Mrs. Marlene Mary Safford DiMaggio, 77, of Ridge Road, Canajoharie, New York died, Saturday, August 13, 2016 at St. Mary's Healthcare of Amsterdam, with her family by her side, following a long illness. Born on December 5, 1938 in Amsterdam, NY, she was the daughter of Leland Clarence Safford and Helen Wheeler Safford. She was a graduate of Canajoharie High School, Class of 1957 and a graduate of Mildred Elley Business School. She was a lifelong area resident. Mrs. DiMaggio retired in 2001 from driving school bus for Canajoharie Central School. She was affectionately known as "Miss Daisy" by her coworkers. She also ran Leo's Restaurant in Howes Caves, NY, along with her husband. She was a member of St. John's & St. Mark's Lutheran Church in Canajoharie. Mrs. DiMaggio was a former member of the Order of Eastern Star #295 of Cobleskill, NY, the Rising Star Chapter. Marlene loved to travel with her friends, often going to Myrtle Beach. She enjoyed crafting and playing cards. On October 14, 1961 Marlene was married to Joseph L. DiMaggio. He preceded her in death on September 6, 1998. Mrs. DiMaggio is survived by her daughter, Valerie and Clifford Montanye, Sr. of Canajoharie, NY; 2 sons, Joseph L. DiMaggio, Jr. of Albany, NY, Alan L. DiMaggio and Nancy Shepard of Canajoharie, NY; brother, Leland C. Safford, Jr. and Thelma of St. Johnsville, NY; 4 grandsons, Clifford Montanye, Jr. of Utica, NY, Ryan DiMaggio and Amy of PA, Alex DiMaggio of Canajoharie, NY, Evan DiMaggio of Canajoharie, NY; 4 Nieces Beth Schwasnick and Gary, Debbie Forgette and Kevin, Wendy Hazzard and Bud, Robyn Safford and Bart; her Wilkinson Adult Day Health Center Family; many dear friends and caregivers. A memorial service will be held on Thursday, August 18, 2016 at 11:00 AM at The Chapel of Houghtaling & Smith Funeral Home, 20 Otsego Street, Canajoharie, NY. The family will receive relatives and friends on Thursday from 10:00-11:00 AM at the funeral home. Burial will take place in Canajoharie Falls Cemetery. Contributions in memory of Mrs. Marlene M. DiMaggio may be made to the Ames Volunteer Fire Department, 595 Latimer Hill Road, Canajoharie, NY 13317.