Obituary of Mary H. Heermance

Mary H. Heermance, 94 of Castleton, NY passed away on April 5, 2025, at home under the care of Hospice. 

 

Mary was born in Elmhurst Queens, NY to Louise and Erwin Kurschner on March 11, 1931. When she was 15, Mary and her parents moved to Niverville, NY. She attended Martin H. Glynn in Valatie, NY, where she graduated in 1948. After graduation, Mary worked for the New York State Insurance Department. Later in life, she worked for the East Greenbush Central School District as a principal account clerk, a position where she forged lifelong friendships, retiring in 1994. Mary and the boy next door, Charles Heermance, were married in 1951 and remained happily married for 73 years. Charles passed from this life on April 10, 2024, and Mary missed him every day since. 

 

Mary was bilingual before she even began school, speaking German at home with her mother and English with playmates. While raising her children, Mary was a stay-at-home Mom. During this time, she grew her own organic vegetables and canned extra produce. She loved to read and volunteered at the East Greenbush Town library. An avid baker, she baked dozens of Christmas Stollen for family and friends. Mary was a wonderful Mother, beloved Wife, proud Grandmother and valued friend who will be greatly missed. 

 

Mary is survived by her daughters Christine Tolcser (Eric) of East Schodack, Lisa Heermance of Castleton, son Martin Heermance (Sharon) of Boston, and grandchildren Lara and Andrew Heermance. Mary was living with Lisa, whose devoted care allowed her to live at home even as her health declined. The family wishes to extend their gratitude to Rensselaer County Hospice, whose compassionate care allowed Mary to pass in the comfort of her home. Memorial donations may be made to Rensselaer County Hospice. 

 

Funeral Services for the family are being held at the Raymond E. Bond Funeral Home in Valatie, NY. Burial will follow at the Woodlawn Cemetery Valatie, NY.