Obituary of Thora Girke

Schenectady - Thora Girke, 83, passed away peacefully Wednesday, April 26, 2017 at Kingsway Arms Nursing Home. Thora was born in Canastota, NY, the daughter of the late Robert and Marian (McConnell) Girke. She worked at Union College for many years, retiring as the English Department secretary close to two decades ago. She survived those years happily and gently with the help and kindness of an extraordinary friend, namely April Selley. April, an English Professor at Union, took on the role of caring for Thora. A monumental task, as Thora was not able to do it alone. Both Thora and April were good, kind souls; they are both gone now, and they will be missed. A memorial service will be held 7 p.m. Monday at Daly Funeral Home, 242 McClellan St., Schenectady. Calling hours will precede the service Monday from 5 to 7 p.m. at the funeral home. Interment will be private.