Deborah Ann O’Connor Marino

ROTTERDAM – Deborah Ann (O’Connor) Marino, 65, of Rotterdam, NY, passed away January 21^st 2019, surrounded by 3 generations of her loving family members and friends, at St. Peters Hospital in Albany, NY.  Even her beloved dog, Rockne, was able to be with her at the hospital during her final days, which brought her tremendous comfort and happiness.  Debbie was as strong as she was unselfish, positive as she was generous, loving as she was loved, and will be deeply missed by everyone who knew her.

Debbie was born on February 24th, 1953 in Albany, NY to Marian and Francis O’Connor Jr. of Albany, NY.  Following graduation from Mercy High School, class of 1971, her kind-hearted, caring and compassionate nature inspired her to earn a degree in nursing from Albany Medical Center in 1974.  Deb went on to help countless children in the pediatric ICU and NICU at St. Peter’s Hospital in Albany, NY.

As the second of six children, Debbie played a significant role in her younger siblings’ lives – they remained of utmost importance throughout her entire life.  O’Connor family gatherings are a frequent occurrence, Debbie treasured each one and was often among the last to leave a party.  Her nieces and nephews loved her warmth and enjoyed the countless stories she had to share.

On September 28^th 1974 Deb married her high school sweetheart, Robert J. Marino, they shared 48 wonderful years together.  While Debbie continued to take care of anyone and everyone around her, she eventually gave up her nursing career and devoted her life to her family.  She and Bob had 3 children, which she raised while also serving as the office manager for the family company, Acme Business Systems.  Nick, Allie and Mark were the light of her life, which was made immensely brighter by her 6 grandchildren.  Nothing made “Nana” happier than spending time with her entire family and singing to her grandchildren, and of course her “grand-dogs” Kasey, George & Eski also held a special place in her heart.

Deb truly enjoyed and tried to experience everything life had to offer.  From wildlife, flowers and the beaches of Cape May to music, arts, history, sports, cuisine, martinis and wine, she was always smiling and enjoying the moment.  In addition to her 3 children, she also raised a Cocker Spaniel, 4 Shetland Sheepdogs, and 2 Canaries.  She always provided food and shelter to wildlife in her backyard and was an avid bird watcher – cardinals were her favorite, although she had the knowledge to identify many different birds simply by hearing their song.  Just around the corner from her bird feeders lies her extensive rose garden, boasting nearly 60 different types of rose plants.  She loved the beaches of Cape May NJ, which was her favorite travel destination and get away.  She enjoyed seeing egrets stroll through the shallows and was always excited to see dolphins frolicking and jumping just beyond the surf.

Deb was also an extremely generous and giving person.  She loved providing for others, whether making one of her delicious soups or knitting a custom blanket, she was always giving and doing things for others.

Deborah is survived by her loving husband, Robert J. Marino, 3 children; Nicholas R. Marino (Melissa), Allison M. Marino and Mark J. Marino (Paula), 6 grandchildren; Emily, Natalie, Joseph, Madeline, Angelina & Jack.  Also survived by her mother, Marian O’Connor, siblings Kathy Ryan, Frank O’Connor III, Judy O’Connor & Tom O’Connor.  She is predeceased by her father, Francis O’Connor Jr and her brother, Joseph P. O’Connor.

Calling hours for friends & family will be Thursday January 24^th from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Hans Funeral Home, 1088 Western Avenue, Albany, NY.  A mass of Christian burial will be celebrated on Friday January 25^th at 10:00 a.m. at Saint Madeline Sophie Church, 3500 Carmen Road, Guilderland NY and Memory Gardens Cemetery, 983 Watervliet Shaker Road, Colonie, NY.

Debbie’s family would like to extend our sincere gratitude to the entire team at St. Peter’s ICU, ALS clinic and Hospice Inn for their tremendous care.  One of Deb’s final wishes was a cure for ALS.  Donations in her name can be made to The ALS Association, Gift Processing Center, PO Box 37022, Boone, IA 50037-0022;  or to the St. Peter’s Hospital ALS Regional Center, 19 Warehouse Row, Albany, NY 12205.  To leave a message of condolence for the family or obtain directions to the funeral home, please visit www.HansFuneralHome.com.

Click here to view Debbie’s resting place in Memory Gardens, Colonie, New York.