Marianne Gray-Stickler passed peacefully and comfortably on Friday November 3, 2017, in Hyannis, Massachusetts, after a long battle with Parkinson’s and Lewy Body Dementia.
She was 83.
Marianne, a German immigrant and World War II survivor, established several ballet and gymnastics studios for the children and adults in the Central New York region where she helped produce several NCAA gymnastics champions and professional dancers.
She also served as the president of the Syracuse Ballet Company and warm up coach for the 1984 US Olympic Men’s Gymnastics Team, and was recognized for her community work by the Ronald McDonald House and Jewish Community Center.
Her contributions to children and anyone she befriended were enormously positive.
She was a special woman.
Marianne is survived by three of her four children; Ross Bonanno, Sam Bonanno and Harry Gray; two step-children, Sharon (Stickler) Linehan and Scott Stickler; and 11 grandchildren between her and her beloved late husband.
In lieu of cards or flowers, donations to the Ronald McDonald House in her name would continue supporting her favorite charity.
Discover more from Oswego County Today
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
So sorry to hear of her passing, Sam and Ross. She was a great and tough teacher of dance. She was also one of our neighbors growing up in Fulton. You and your family are in our prayers and thoughts. ~with sincere sympathy, Muggins & family