Obituary of Nickolena E. Blankenbaker

     On July 27th , a wonderful person left us.  Nickolena E.  Blankenbaker,  passed away at Albany Medical Center Hospital with her loving sons at her side. 

     Born in Amsterdam, NY on May 15th, 1938 the daughter of Sisto Parillo and Catherine Biscotti Parillo.  Nickolena was united in marriage to Ronald Blankenbaker Sr. on June 29th, 1957. 

     She was first employed by the former Martin Jay Dress Shop on Garden St. in Amsterdam and was proud to be one of the last surviving workers along with her good friend Mary Keosaian.  She was later employed by the former Montgomery County Infirmary in Amsterdam for over 37 years in various positions.  

    Her beloved husband Ronald passed away on September 19, 2012.   She leaves behind her two loving sons; Michael (Sandy) Blankenbaker and Ronald Blankenbaker Jr. of Amsterdam, cherished granddaughters; Crystal and Sara Blankenbaker.  Her sister-in-law, Shirley (John) Rigatti along with several nieces, nephews, cousins and good friends. 

    She was a communicant of the former St. Michael the Archangel Roman Catholic Church and Historic St. Mary’s Church in Amsterdam.  Nickolena was also a member of the American Legion Women’s Auxiliary and the Polish American Veterans Club. 

     A Roman Catholic Prayer Service will be held on Tuesday August 1, 2023 at 10:00 AM at the Betz, Rossi, and Bellinger Family Funeral Home, 171 Guy Park Ave, Amsterdam, N.Y. with  Father Martin Kordel, CRL presiding.    A calling period will follow from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM at the funeral home.   Interment will immediately follow Tuesday's calling hours in St. Michael the Archangel  Cemetery,  Amsterdam, N.Y   Memorial contributions may be made to the  Creative Connections Clubhouse, 305 East Main St., Amsterdam, NY 12010 or to a charity of one's choice.  Arrangements have been entrusted to Betz, Rossi, and Bellinger Family funeral Home. Please leave condolences online at  www.brbsfuneral.com.