Gertrude L. Conant

Gertrude L. Conant, of 4093 West Seneca Road, Trumansburg, passed away on Tuesday, September 4, 2007 at the age of 83.

Born in Brooktondale, New York on June 19, 1924, Gertrude was the daughter of Glenn and Iva (Bacon) Phinney. She was employed by Cornell University for many years and enjoyed the rich history of the Ithaca area. Her membership in the DeWitt Historical Society (now the History Center) allowed Gertrude the access and an opportunity to keep history present in our current lives. Tracing heritage through genealogy, and capturing the family she cherished in photographs were favorite pastimes. The birthday calendar was followed closely so that a card could be sent, and nothing lit up Gertrude's face more than the sight of a grandchild or great-grandchild walking through the door.

Gertrude was preceded in death by her husband, Harold in 1983 and her son-in-law, Harold Suess in 2007. She is survived by two daughters, Lorraine Suess of Trumansburg and Kathryn (Jazen) Valencia of Ithaca; one son, Ralph (Darlene) Conant of Largo, Florida; six grandchildren; five great-grandchildren and six nephews.

The family will be present to receive friends on Friday, September 7, 2007 from 10-11 am at the Ness-Sibley Funeral Home, 23 South Street, Trumansburg.

Services, at the funeral home, will begin at 11:00 am on Friday with the Rev. Ralph Selin officiating. Prayers of Committal will follow at Quick Cemetery in Brooktondale.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks those who wish to remember Gertrude in the form of a contribution to kindly consider the History Center, 401 E. State Street, Ithaca, NY 14850.