Mary Curtis Day is September 20
Monroe County Executive, Cheryl DiNolfo, has declared September 20, 2019 as “Mary Curtis Day.” Mary is still going strong at age 100 and her relatives and friends will gather at Cottage Grove Memory Care in North Chili where she will receive birthday cards from around the world.
Mary’s parents emigrated from the Ukraine in the late 1800s and settled in Hilton where they worked as farmers. Daughter, Holly DiCiccio, of Brockport, says her Mom was a “smart cookie” as Mary was raised bi-lingual and graduated from Hilton High School at age 16. Mary then attended Highland Hospital’s School of Nursing where she earned a diploma and immediately hopped a train to find work in California. She moved to Texas before eventually returning to New York state. During WWII Mary was chosen to train as a nurse anesthetist since there was such a shortage of doctors during war times.
Mary attended every class reunion of Hilton High School up until age 90. She even drove until age 94 when they would not pass her for the driver’s test.
In retirement Mary volunteered at Park Ridge Hospital and at the YMCA where she was a longtime member enjoying walking and water aerobics. She continues to thrive on daily walks and still shares her love of animals. “Pets just come to her as they seem to know she loves to hold and pet them,” says daughter Holly.
Mary was twice married, had three children (one now deceased), seven grandchildren and five great grandchildren. She’s known by her family for being open minded, reminding grandchildren that “It takes all kinds” during her Sunday dinner visits with her daughter’s family.
Mary continues to pursue an active lifestyle at Cottage Grove.
The community is invited to send birthday cards to Mary Curtis at 46 Cottage Grove Circle, North Chili, NY 14514. Nearly 100 cards have been received so far.
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