Obituary of Margaret J. Manikewitz

Margaret J. Manikewitz, 97, of Gloversville, joined her husband for a New Year’s Eve celebration on December 31, 2021 after a brief illness at St. Mary’s Hospital. Her daughter and granddaughter were by her side.

She was born in Gloversville on May 18, 1924, the daughter of the late Elmer and Emma (Rooney) Sleezer. She was employed at St. Thomas, Coleco, Baronet and Mario Papa and Sons, retiring from there after 25 years.

On March 31, 1951, she married the love of her life, Andrew. They shared more than 42 years united in marriage until his passing on July 4, 1993.

She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Marlene (James) Thomson, granddaughter and husband, Andrea (Erik) Peters, and great-granddaughters and lights of her life, Greta (namesake) and Clara Peters. She is also survived by her nephews, Donald and Richard (Shirley) Sleezer, nieces, Cathy Allen, Karen (George) Romeyn, Patricia McLain and Margaret (namesake) (Dave) Ashline as well as several extended family members.

In addition to her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by two brothers, George and Donald Sleezer, sister, Lucille Stangle, nephew, Carl D. Jackson and niece, Ellen Doxtater.

Margaret was kind, generous, strong and resilient. She had a great sense of humor that kept her laughing and kept her young. A woman of great faith, she was a communicant of North Main Street United Methodist Church. “It is better to give than to receive” was how she lived her life. She was happiest when she could be helping others. Margaret’s “taxi service” was ready to provide rides for friends, neighbors or even strangers. She especially enjoyed trips to the casino and baking treats for her bingo buddies. Margaret cared deeply for her nieces and nephews and cherished time spent with them at parties, breakfasts, or on the phone. In her early years, you could find her dancing the night away with her husband, Andy. Most recently, at 97 years young, she was still dancing but also swinging and sliding with her two great-granddaughters who adored her. Out of all the roles that Margaret had, being “GG” was her favorite. 

Margaret’s life was the perfect example of devotion to everyone fortunate enough to have met her. She will remain in the hearts of all who knew her because she was truly an angel on earth. 

In lieu of flowers, please honor Margaret’s legacy and wishes by performing one random act of kindness.

The family will receive relatives and friends from 1 to 2 pm Thursday, January 6th at Walrath & Stewart Funeral Home, 51 Fremont Street, Gloversville, where a Funeral Service will follow at 2 pm with the Rev. Joyce Royal officiating. Facial masks are required.

Private Interment will follow at Prospect Hill Cemetery, Gloversville. 

Online condolences to the family may be made at www.brbsfuneral.com