Obituary of Gertrude M. Van Slyke

Gertrude M. Van Slyke, 89, passed away at the St. Camillus Center, on Monday, November 23, 2015 with her daughters by her side. She was the daughter of Charles and Mildred Horan. She was born in Utica on June 20, 1926. She was predeceased by her husband of 33 years, William in 1982, her daughter, Patty Ann, sons, William Jr. and Thomas, and her brother, Chuck. Gert is survived by her daughters, Kathleen (Dennis) Ryan, Donna Diamond and daughter-in-law, Mandy Van Slyke. She is also survived by her 5 grandchildren; Patrick (Kim) Diamond, Lynn (Dan) Clifford, Colleen Ryan (Kevin), Dennis Ryan and Bill (Kara) Van Slyke. Gert loved all her children, especially her great grand children, Jhalen, Jhada, Ava, Michael, Dylan, Sammy, Brannon and Sean. She also leaves her sisters-in-law, Mary and Lynette and many nieces and nephews. Gert left many friends at the Union Free School to cherish her memory. Gert was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and amazing friend to many. She was the life of any party, and it was always 5 o'clock somewhere according to Gert. Donna and Kathy would like to thank the staff of St. Camillus for the loving and compassionate care given to their mother that made her last days more comfortable. Services will be held at 12:30pm on Monday, November 30, 2015 at Holy Family Church, 127 Chapel Dr., Fairmount. Calling hours will be held from 2 to 5pm on Sunday at the Edward J. Ryan and Son Funeral Home, 3180 Bellevue Ave. Burial will be private.