Obituary of Cecilia Shirikian

Cecilia Fava Shirikian, entered into eternal life with her mother, father and two brothers (Fred Fava Gray and John Fava) on June 23, 2015, surrounded by her family and friends and in the presence of their love. Cecelia was born in Schenectady, the daughter of Joseph and Raffaela Cusano Fava. She was truly amazing women, who lived life to the fullest. She played the saxophone in her own band "Girls of Note", as a young women. She had worked for the Niskayuna School District, retiring at age 55. During the next 42 years, she volunteered becoming an avid walker and was known to many for her helpful nature and words of advice. She is survived by two daughters, Rae Ann Guthinger (Alex Bytschkow) of Rochester and Joan Shirikian-Hesselton and her beloved son-in- law, Clair Russell Hesselton of Altamont; her cherished granddaughter, Aimee Lynn Guthinger. Her dearest and closest friends were Chris Kowalczyk, Kate Doyle and Joan Schaefer, who helped make these last years so peaceful for her. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews and sisters-in-law. She had many special neighbors and caregivers. The family would like to thank the wonderful staff of Glendale Nursing Facility, especially Pine Plains neighborhood, the activity group and the staff on C-4 of Ellis Hospital. Funeral service, Friday morning, 8:30 a.m. from the Daly Funeral Home, Inc., 242 McClellan St., Schenectady and 9 a.m. at St. Kateri Tekakwitha Church (Union St.) where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated. A calling hour will be held 7:30 to 8:30 a.m. at the funeral. Interment St. Anthony's Cemetery, Glenville. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Kateri Tekakwitha Church 2216 Rosa Rd. Schenectady, NY 12309.