Mary A. Canessa, a longtime resident of Pomona, NY, passed away peacefully on August 14, 2025, at the age of 87. Born in Strasburg, PA, on July 11, 1938, she was the daughter of the late Alexander and Anna-Mae (Kierstead) Stoltz. Mary worked as a dedicated secretary for the nursing department at the Robert L. Yeager Health Center, where she was a respected and beloved colleague. She was a loving wife to John Canessa for 57 years and was cherished by her friends, family and coworkers.

Mary had an adventurous spirit and a passion for driving. She enjoyed vacationing on the seaside, particularly touring the lighthouses of Cape Cod. A natural storyteller, she often shared memories from her life and was known for being well-organized. Her favorite color was blue, and she loved waterfalls.

Her legacy of love and family is carried on by her son, Raymond, and his wife, Pam, of New City, NY. She was a proud and loving grandmother to Emily and Michael.

A small graveside service to honor Mary's life will be held on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, at 11:00 AM at the Frederick Loescher Rockland County Veterans Cemetery in New Hempstead, NY. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to a charity of your choice in Mary's memory.