Contributions to the tribute of Thelma Olender

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Anita posted a condolence

Thursday, January 13, 2022

On behalf of my sister and brother and our entire family we wish to thank Peter Rose and his team at BRBS for their kindness, diligence and sensitivity during this very difficult time. We thank everyone who attended the virtual services as well as Rabbi Matt Cutler for conducting a beautiful funeral service and subsequent Shiva. Rabbi Shmuel Gancz conducted a remote Memorial Service on Sunday Jan 9th which was attended by over 40 of Mothers family and friends. Mother epitomized that it’s what you do with the dash that counts. Baruch Dayan Emet Mom. You are missed beyond words by all of us who love you. May your memory be for a blessing and may you rest in Eternal Peace. We love you. Barb, Jeff, Adam, Susan, Kayla, Andrew, Julie, Rich, Lisa, Seth, Zachary, Eve, Justin, Karen, Phil, Pearl, Jada, Raina, Rush, Brady, Benny, Alex, Cara, Rick and Sylvia

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Shelagh posted a symbolic gesture

Saturday, January 8, 2022

It has been very hard to accept that the one and only “Toby” has passed. “Toby” was a beautiful, smart, talented and remarkable woman. It was an honor and delight to know her and feel the warmth of her friendship. To know Toby was to know how much she treasured her children: Barbara, Richard, and Anita along with their spouses, children and grands. Toby was the first person I met when I moved to Victory Court as she could make anyone she met feel welcomed. During our first conversation Toby asked if I’d like to join the Bridge Group (that she Started) and I said yes but told her there was only one thing that was holding me back - I didn’t know how to play bridge. Toby did not hesitate a minute and said “that’s fine I’ll teach you (!). Within a few weeks Toby was tutoring four of us on Monday evenings and within a short time we were able to join the Bridge Group every Thursday afternoon. Toby kept track of her students as we joined the experienced players and started to introduce me as one of the best students she ever taught - I did feel somewhat embarrassed but also rather proud of the (unearned) compliment but then I heard her say that about another student and had a good laugh. Toby did have the gift of making anyone feel welcome and at ease. Toby also originated a small group that would meet up in the library/aquarium room adjacent to the front lobby between 4-5. There were usually a handful of regulars and we’d talk about anything and everything and Toby was always able to steer the conversation in ways that included everyone plus it was fun greeting anyone who came through the front door and inviting anyone who seemed the least bit interested to join us. A number of us liked to go to the Silver Diner to celebrate each other’s birthdays. The last time I went with Toby and a few others was to celebrate her birthday and the staff of about 4 people were coming to our table the way they usually did singing the Happy Birthday song but that time everyone who was at the Silver Diner joined in to honor and celebrate our very dear Toby. I will miss her forever but I have so many tender and happy memories that I will retrieve to sustain me. It is with much love and admiration that I offer deepest sympathy to all and esp. Barbara, Richard and Anita. Shelagh

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Anita Levine Posted Jan 13, 2022 at 9:40 PM

Thank you so much Shelagh. What a lovely sentiment for our beloved Mother. We miss her more than words. Barb, Rich and Anita

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Victoria LaPorte Catucci posted a condolence

Thursday, January 6, 2022

My condolences to Anita and family. What a beautiful tribute to your beautiful mom. Your mom and dad are fondly remembered as Amsterdam natives and memories of our family shopping at the Olender Store. I am sorry to hear of her passing. Victoria LaPorte Catucci (Classmate)

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Anita Levine Posted Jan 13, 2022 at 9:43 PM

Thank you so much Vicki. We treasured every moment with our dear Mother and it is a comfort to know that she and Dad are remembered so fondly. Hope you and your family are well! Barb, Rich and Anita

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Jim Varsoke posted a condolence

Wednesday, January 5, 2022

So sorry to hear of your moms passing. My memories of her, always a first class women, whether at the store, the golf course or driving her 'Luxurious Olds 98'. May peace be with her. Jimmy Varsoke (JV)

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Anita Levine Posted Jan 13, 2022 at 9:45 PM

Awww JV, she loved you as do we. Do many good memories… thank you for the kind words and thoughts. She was one of a kind. Hope you are well. Barb, Rich and Anita

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Pamela Mackey lit a candle

Wednesday, January 5, 2022

My heartfelt condolences are sent to Barbara(Jeffery), Richard, and Anita. The recent loss of your mother who was revered has been an occasion of sorrow for everyone who had been privileged to meet her. Your mother was God’s gift to humanity the day she was born. Our friendship began at the advent of the sunset of her earthly life. She and I enjoyed mutual love and admiration rooted in a friendship unparalleled in my life that is now eternal. Love is infinite not defined by time.

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Tina posted a condolence

Tuesday, January 4, 2022

My condolences to the family of Mrs. Olendar. I remember Mr. And Mrs olendar from many years past. While I was Dr. Harry Berkman's dental assistant, he was very fond of the olendar family. Everyone always went to them for our bedding needs. Throughout the years they were hard working and pleasant folks to be around. May they now join each other and share their everlasting love that they have left behind. May they be with you always. Fondly tina novak/pooch parlor/galway, NY.

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Anita Levine Posted Jan 13, 2022 at 9:50 PM

Tina we thank you sincerely for your lovely remembrance of our Mother. We greatly appreciate the kind thoughts and memories that you’ve shared with us. Barb, Rich and Anita

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The family of Thelma Olender uploaded a photo

Monday, January 3, 2022

Thelma "Toby" Olender

1923 - 2021

Plant a tree in memory of Thelma

Thelma "Toby" Olender

1923 - 2021

Plant a tree in memory of Thelma

​(518) 843-1920

(518) 843-1920