OSWEGO, NY – Maria Hoffman Clavelli, 70, of Oswego, passed away on Friday evening January 15, 2016, at Upstate Medical University Hospital in Syracuse.
She was born September 23, 1945, in Geneva, NY, to Henry and Florence (Riley) Hoffman.
Maria attended Immaculate Conception School in Ithaca and graduated from Mount Carmel High School in Auburn in 1963.
After entering the Sisters of St. Joseph of Rochester, she attended Nazareth College earning a BS and Masters Degree in Education and held permanent NYS Certification in teaching (N6).
She also took post graduate courses in Catholic School Administration at Fordham University and was permanently certified in School Administration (N 12).
Maria taught at various schools in the Diocese of Rochester for 12 years before becoming a school administrator at St. James in Waverly, NY (197679) and St. Paul’s Academy in Oswego (19791995).
In 1996, she left the SSJ community and married longtime friend Frank Clavelli.
In the 10 years they spent together, Maria and Frank’s greatest joy was being with and caring for their grandson, Joey, he was truly the “light of their lives.”
They also enjoyed music, dancing, attending parades, concerts, and other civic functions, as well as doing various household projects for others.
Joe continued to be a vital part of Maria’s life as he grew up into a successful young man.
Maria spent many hours as a volunteer throughout the community: at Oswego Hospital in the Staff Development Office and library? a member of St. Paul’s Senior Choir where she served as volunteer music coordinator and faithful helper with the Junior Choir? also at the Oswego Public Library’s Children’s Room where she helped the staff prepare projects for the weekly Story hours.
She loved to read, listen to audio books and music, knit, crochet and spend time with her friends and family whenever possible.
Even in her death, Maria continued to give to others by donating her body to Upstate University Medical Hospital for use in the study of anatomy by the medical students.
Besides her parents she was predeceased by her loving husband Frank (2006).
She is survived by her stepson, Frank Clavelli Jr. (Candice Hutchinson); grandson Joe Clavelli, all of Oswego? brothers, Charles (Margaret (Dee) Hoffman of Victor, NY, and Pastor Bob (Colleen) Hoffman of Lebanon, Pa.? five nieces and a nephew; as well as a grand-niece and grand-nephew? several cousins? and many dear close friends.
A memorial mass will be held on January 23, at 11 a.m. at St. Paul’s Church Oswego, NY.
There will be no calling hours.
In lieu of flowers Maria requests that a donation be given to a charity of your choice.
Arrangements are by the DainCullinan Funeral Home.
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It is very sad news to learn that Maria has passed away. I have know her since I moved to Oswego some twenty-eight years ago. We were both members of the St. Paul’s senior choir and I know that she will be missed by all who knew and loved her. She always had a smile and a kind word for everyone and tried to help anyone who was in need. My condolences to her family and I will always keep her memory in my heart and, she was a wonderful person.
My sincerest condolences to you Frank and to your family. Peace to all of you.