Stella Vegard

Elmira: Age 82, passed away on Saturday, May 21, 2011 at Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester. Stella was born August 8, 1928 a daughter of William and Alice Szymkiewicz. She is predeceased by her husband Charles F. Vegard, son Gregory, sisters, Lottie, Helen, and Anne, and brother Eddie. Stella is survived by her children, with their families, Dawn and Gary Vaughn of Dekalb IL; Dennis and Becky Vegard of Elmira with children, Kelly Vegard, Jenny (Jonathan) Murphy, and Katie Vegard; Charlene Carey of Elmira with children, Michael and Bridgett Carey; Michelle and Butch Snell of York PA with son Brandon Moore; great-grandchildren, Kaylie, Charlie, Kayon, and Alyssa; along with several nieces, nephews, and cousins. Stella was born in Bradford NY and moved to Corning as a child, where she graduated from Northside High School. She moved to Elmira after marrying Charles. Stella worked for the Chemung County Family Court for 25 years retired in 1986 as the Chief Court Clerk. Along with her husband Charles she was active with the American Legion Post #443, Elmira Eagles Club #941, and Elmira Elks Lodge #62. Stella and Charles enjoyed traveling through the United States, up into Canada, and to Europe and Mexico. They also looked forward to their winters in Florida. Always on the go and active Stella loved to cook, garden, sew, and decorate her home. Stella passed on to her children the importance of negotiating any deal since she was the “Queen Negotiator”. Stella took great pride and joy in being with her family, attending events that her children and grandchildren were active in. She loved her family which was more important to her than anything. The Vegard home was known for the legendary Christmas Eve gatherings. She will be missed by all who knew and loved her. Family and friends are invited to McInerny Funeral Home, corner of W. Water and Walnut Sts., on Tuesday, May 24, 2011 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Wednesday, May 25, 2011 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Mary’s Church, Elmira. Interment, with committal prayers, will follow at St. Peter & Paul’s Cemetery. Those wishing may remember Stella with a donation to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, 401 N. Salina Street, Syracuse, NY 13203-1770.

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