Marion Constance Boehmer

Marion Constance (Beal) Boehmer left this world on November 6 in Venice, Florida. Born in Hamilton, Ontario, daughter of Robert H. Beal and Marion C. (Auld) Beal, she was a proud graduate of Delta Collegiate High School and the University of Toronto. She is predeceased by her husband of 68 years, Bill Boehmer, brothers Ernie and Bob, and son-in-law Phil Fry.

When she married Bill, she traded one steel city for another, Pittsburgh, and though always a Canadian at heart, she loved western Pennsylvania and her adopted homeland. She and Bill had many adventures and Marion became quite proficient at towing a sailplane trailer for off field glider retrievals. She loved to be active: snow skiing and water skiing, bicycling, bowling, playing racquetball and croquet, and dancing with Bill. She was skilled at games and puzzles - for many years she completed the NY Times puzzle in ink - and bridge kept her mind sharp. She and Bill travelled with friends and family, often visiting friends and relatives in Canada.

Most of all she was a homemaker in the very best sense of that word. At home and at the cottage at Deep Creek she created a welcoming and loving place for her family, with good food, always fresh baked bread, and lovely gardens. She smocked dresses for her daughters and granddaughters and knit many sweaters. She was so proud of the accomplishments of her children and always encouraged them with these words, “you can do anything you set your mind to.” She had a sympathetic ear and a skill for listening; her advice was sought up till the end of her life. She had a sparkle, a keen sense of humor, and always an optimistic outlook on life.

She was blessed by her extended family and her community of friends.

She is survived by her children, Wendy (John) Mackin, Ellen Boehmer, Sandy (Rick Thibodeau) Fry, Bob (Janine) Boehmer, seven grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, March 7, at 10 am, at Emmanuel Lutheran Church, 790 S. Tamiami Trail, Venice, FL. Memorial contributions may be made to Tidewell Hospice via the Tidewell Foundation, tidewellfoundation.org, 3550 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34239.