Obituary of Mary Jane Dunham

Mary Dunham, 68 of Syracuse, passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 15^th, 2018.  She was born and raised in Syracuse, daughter of Francis J. Merante and Charlotte J. Merante.  Mary was a graduate of Most High Rosary High School.  She started at Coca-Cola where she made many friends as an executive assistant.  With her children’s education in mind and her love athletics, she worked at Syracuse University for 29 years for the Orange Club.  She retired in December of 2015, three short years ago.

Mary was an avid Syracuse University fan of all athletics.  She attended as many games as she could fit into her schedule.  She pulled them through many close games and won many championships.  She truly loved each game with the Orange.  She also hated Boston and loved the Yankees!

Mary’s famous chocolate chip cookies cheered all her gatherings.  The recipe is somewhere, but we are unsure if it has been secured or not.  Many attempted to duplicate the cookies but have turned out to be an epic failure.  She gave them her special touch.

Mary’s life and Faith touched the lives of everyone she met.  Her charisma and strength made her someone that was loved by all.  She will be missed and her gifts of love will be with us forever.

Mary was survived by husband of 35 years, John Dunham of Baldwinsville, son, John and Brianne Sheridan of Baldwinsville, New York; grandchildren Brayden and Emily, daughter Summer Sheridan-Zabre and son-in-law Issouf Zabre of Manhatten, New York and grandson Grady Zabre, daughter
Lori Caulkins and husband Paul, John Dunham Jr. and his wife Amy, and Melissa Dunham.

Pre-deceased brothers include Robert Merante, Paul “Mickey” Merante, and Francis “Jerry” Merante.  Mary was survived by brothers Matthew and Jenny Merante, Theresa and Bob Sheldon, Kathy “Merante” Lane and Larry, and Terrance and Dawn Merante, eight grandchildren, and 33 nieces and nephews.

The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to the staff of Francis House who treated Mary so well and with such dignity.  The love and kindness toward Mary and her immediate and extended family by the Francis House will never be forgotten.

Hospice was also instrumental with Mary’s care.  They provided more time with because of their excellent care, counsel, and compassion.

Family and friends may come within a hour prior to the 10:30 am funeral mass on Wednesday, 18th.  The mass will be at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church 3494 NY-31, Baldwinsville, NY 13027 followed by a burial at Greenlawn Cemetery at 2932 Warners Rd., Warners, NY  13164.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Francis House 108 Michaels Ave. and Hospice of Central NY 990 7^th N St., Liverpool, NY 13088.  Word of comfort may be expressed at: http://falardeaufh.com/