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Marilyn Schmidt Obituary

RAVENA Marilyn I. Schmidt, DVM, 52, entered eternal life suddenly Tuesday, September 27, 2005. Marilyn was the daughter of the late George and Irene Schmidt. Survivors include her husband F. Richard Lesser, DVM; sons, Evan Schmidt Lesser and Craig Schmidt Lesser; daughter, Taryn Schmidt Lesser; and brothers, Michael Schmidt of Boston and Robert Schmidt of Rochester. Marilyn partook and rejoiced in her family's life and activities, including their farm (horses and livestock), sports (skiing, soccer, swimming and sailing), as well as school, church, 4-H and scouting activities. Marilyn was also a leader in the field of equine veterinary medicine. As the owner of the Equine Clinic at OakenCroft, she tirelessly served the needs of horses and horsemen throughout upstate New York for 27 years. Funeral services will be held 10:30 a.m. Saturday, October 1 at St. Patrick's Church, Ravena. Friends may call at the Babcock Funeral Home, Ravena on Friday from 4 to 8 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that a donation in memory of Marilyn be made to support equine programs at Cornell University's College of Veterinary Medicine. Contributions may be sent to, Cornell University, College of Veterinary Medicine, S2 005 Schurman Hall, Ithaca, NY 14853.

Published by Albany Times Union from Sep. 29 to Sep. 30, 2005.
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Not sure what to say?





Dear Rick, Evan, Craig and Taryn,
I am very sad to learn what happened to Marilyn.
This is Thierry from France, your old au pair boy.
I was looking on internet to try to get your email address and I just learned the terrible new.
I feel really strange. You had been my family for one year in 1991/1992 and I have the feeling to loose somebody very close.
I hope to get news from you.
Take care
Thierry

thierry barbaroux

September 18, 2007

Rick,
It has been a long time since I have seen you and the rest of your family, although you are on my mind constantly. You along with everyone at the clinic changed my life, I think about you everyday... you and Marylin were two of the most influencing people I have had the honor of meeting. Everyday I try my best and remember Marilyns attention to detail her drive to reach her fullest potential. Both you and Marilyn, along with Evan, Craig, and Taryn will be in my heart forever. I just want you to know that the short time I was in the company of your family I felt overwhelmed with the initiative to do better with my life and try to help people maybe a fraction of what all of you do. It is impossible to express how much you all mean to me. But I hope in my marriage and my life I could aspire to be what you all are: Amazing people, in life and after passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you everday, every minute. I love you all... Marylin and Rick... you will always be my greatest inspiration.

Ashley Marion (Armer)

March 8, 2007

I was so sad to hear of Marilyn's passing. My condolences to the entire family and of course to the entire equine community who knew her so well. I rode with Marylin in 1997 for a few days after I graduated from Cornell. She had boundless energy and a gift with horses. I particulary loved the feel of her home,so down to earth in every way. The kindness Rick and Marylin bestowed on me during that time still makes me smile. My heart is with you all.

Pat Erickson,DVM

November 29, 2006

Just thinking of you all 1 year later on this sad day.Our thoughts are still with you and your family.

Joe & Barb Purcell

September 27, 2006

Dear Rick,

I am not sure if you remember me my name is Melissa(Kelsch)Rowe. I was a student at SUNY Cobleskill from 1990-1994 in the Equine program. During the summer of 1992 you and Marilyn hired me to take care of the horses for that summer. I really liked working for the both of you and had learned so much. I had just heard about Marilyn's passing on July 4th of this year. I am so sorry for your lost. My thought and prayers are with you and your family during these times.

Sincerely,

Melissa(Kelsch) Rowe

Melissa (Kelsch) Rowe

July 31, 2006

Dear Rick,



It has been awhile since my husband Paul and I had horses and we used your clinic for our horses veterinary needs. I'm not sure that you remember our place just outside of Amsterdam but we will never forget you and your wife and the dedication you both had to helping animals. I wish I had heard about Marilyn's untimely death sooner but I just found out today. Please accept our sympathy. We hope that you and your family will be consoled by the fact that so many lives have been touched in such a positive way by Marilyn. God Bless you all.

Kathy Ratajczak

February 27, 2006

Rick,Evan,Craig,and Tyran,

I am sorry to here about the loss of your wife and mom,. My prayers are with you always. Your mom was a special person.I will always remember the Altamont fair.She will be missed. If you need anything let me know.You guys are great.

God Bless,

Cindy Spuzy and Becky

Cindy Spuzy

November 1, 2005

Dear Dr. Lesser and Family, I was so very sorry to hear of your loss. I was fortunate to have met Marilyn at Saratoga while attending an event with Leonardo Capossoli Da Cunha.Leo also sends his condolences from his clinic deep in the Brazilian rainforest...Colniza...He spoke so often of his wonderful time with your family. Both Leo and I will keep you all in our thoughts and prayers..Perhaps we can get together when he returns to the USA next summer.

Diane Smith

October 22, 2005

Dear Rick and Family:



We are so sorry for your loss. Oakencroft was so instrumental in saving our horse Princess' eye when she was so seriously injured, and we will always be grateful. You and Marilyn have always provided the equine industry with your knowledge and concern for this area's horses. Marilyn will be missed by all, especially those who have a love of horses. Thank you and God Bless you in your time of grief.

Richard and Carolyn Allen

October 21, 2005

To Dr. Lesser, family, and the staff at the ECO:

I am deeply saddened to hear of Dr. Schmidt's passing. I was privileged to ride with her on her rounds three years ago, as she helped to open up the world of veterinary medicine for me, by sharing with me all of its complexities and wonders. I was taken aback on many occasions by her intellectual brightness and the deep concern she showed over the people and animals she came into contact with everyday. Dr. Schmidt was a terrific veterinarian and an amazing human being.

Jeffrey Barnet

October 17, 2005

Dear Rick and family,

I offer my sympathy for your loss. Although I had never met neither Marilyn nor you, I have heard wonderful comments about your practice. Her passing is a loss to the equine world and veterinary medicine.

Linda Mittel, DVM

October 13, 2005

Rick and Kids

I can remember the first time we met all of you....Altamont Fair, showing sheep. Dorset Sheep was another passion for Marilyn. Yes, it was the kids projects but Marilyn being the Mom she was..she learned along with her kids. Her most recent ram addition was the source of great conversation this summer.

We are blessed to have you as friends. You are in our thoughts in prayers

Jim, Lois, Justin, Jessica, J.J. and Elizabeth Goblet

October 12, 2005

To Dr. Lesser and Family,

I am very sorry to hear of your loss. May you find peace in knowing her legacy will live forever.

Sue Disy

October 11, 2005

Dear Rick,

Janet and I extend to you our prayers and support during this time of tragedy. Our hearts go out to you and your children. God Bless you all. Please call me if there is anything I can do to help you out now or anytime in the future.

Janet and Scott Palmer

Scott Palmer

October 8, 2005

Dear Rick,family and staff of ECO,

When we moved to NY in 1988 you and Marilyn were two of the first people we met. We had many opportunities over the years, both sad and joy filled, to experience Marilyn's talents with our horses and we cannot express our sadness at her passing so suddenly. Marilyn was a leader in bringing many new and wonderful treatment choices to her clients and taking the field of veterinary medicine into a new direction which will benefit all of the animals she loved for many years to come. We are deeply sorry for your loss and send you our heartfelt condolences.

Ralph & Isabelle Acampora

October 7, 2005

I cannot imagine anyone else but Marilyn working on my horses at Overmeade. It has been 13 years since I lived in Lenox and rode at Overmeade Farm, and Marilyn still is my standard for an excellent vet, wonderful person and true animal lover. She will be greatly missed.

Robyn Clark Bostrom

October 6, 2005

I'll miss a talented, honorable and kind collaegue. My deepest condolences to the family.

David Lamb

October 5, 2005

Dr. Lesser and Family,

Please accept our heartfelt sympathy on the loss of your beloved wife. And mother. May God give you strength and courage in this time of grief, and restore to you and yours a sense of life’s goodness, as Marilyn’s love live on forever in your hearts.

Rich and Gayle Beller

October 4, 2005

Your family is in our thoughts and prayers. With deepest sympathy, David and Jeannette Dietrich and family

Jeannette Dietrich

October 4, 2005

Rick,

Connie and I send our condolances and prayers at this time of sorrow.Take care,

Dean

Dean Scoggins

October 4, 2005

My sincerest condolences to the family of a colleague

Suzanne Black

October 4, 2005

Evan Lesser

October 3, 2005

Rick, Evan,Craig and Taryn,

God bless you all. Cheri and I extent our deepest sympathy and heart felt condolences. We hope Marilyn's eternal salvation and belief in Jesus Christ can help comfort all of you in this time of grief.

Chuck Maker

October 2, 2005

Memories of Marilyn



Marilyn had a directness about her, a freshness that was perennial. Her clean scrubbed persona started with a cap of straw colored hair bunched up in a casual twist. Her clear blue eyes were always slightly bemused. Tall and slim, Marilyn had an athlete's ease to her movements and a colt like need for wide open spaces. She spent every second she could outdoors--on a horse, on a ski slope, hiking in the Adirondacks, working on the farm. Soccer was a passion--coaching and watching her children master teamwork on the field were great joys to her.



One of the things I remember well about Marilyn were her hands. They were large and flexible, spider like in their range of motion. They symbolized her capable nature, her ability to hold and guide so many things--horses, stethoscopes, soccer balls, ski poles, saucepans, and of course, three children and a husband.



Marilyn put those hands to work by becoming a veterinarian. She trained at Cornell from 1974 to 1978, The seventies were the first time in history that women entered this career in significant numbers. Many in that "first wave" felt the need to trumpet women's liberation as their mission. Not Marilyn. Marilyn simply had a deep love for horses, science and medicine. Veterinary school was the logical place to combine the three. WIthout much fuss she studied the art and the science of the profession. When she was done she went to work as a horse doctor in the Hudson River Valley. Women were a rarity in equine practice in 1978, so Marilyn's arrival creaed quite a stir. But her straight forward, matter of fact competence soon won the hearts of Hudson Valley horse people. Before long no one thought twice when the tall gal with hair bundled in an upswept twist arrived to treat the colic, deliver the foal or sew up the wound. They just knew they had a darn good veterinarian who would solve the problem no matter how bad the weather or how late the hour.



Marilyn was BELOVED by her clients. Most called her "Marilyn" not "Dr. Schmidt"--with her, respect centered around her deep and personal relationships, not hierarchy. Marilyn really knew horses, knew first hand what great athletes they can be and the thousands of little things that affect performance. Her study of acupuncture and chiropractic gave her the ability to fine tune her patients for the show ring. Her understanding of western veterinary medicine gave her the resources to treat big threats to life or limb. Many people are skilled in either the western or eastern arms of veterinary medicine. Very few master both. Marilyn was one of those very few.



Marilyn and Rick married 24 years ao. What a partnership they formed! At first blush Marilyn and Rick seemed like opposites--she, somewhat austere and reserved, he a hail fellow well met, story teller, the life of the party. It was sort of an "I Love Lucy" in reverse with Rick being the comedian and Marilyn the straight one who often had reason to roll her eyes. But the two shared so much--a deep commitment to excellence in practice, a love of the outdoors, an abiding passion for horses, a simple strong faith and a great joy in family. When they married they set out on a path that would embrace all these things. Together, Rick and Marilyn bought and retooled the great green place called Oakencroft. They made it into their home and built their large veterinary clinic on its acres. They trained many young veterinarians and technicians and educated countless horse owners. They gave back to their profession through their committee work for the American Association of Equine Practitioners. Their three wonderful kids--Evan, Craig and Taryn, are a testimonial to their partnership--no matter how busy things got, Rick and Marilyn kept the family priorities on top. A myriad of practice responsibilities ground to a halt when it was time for scout camp, soccer practice, swim team or ski trips. Somehow the work still got done.



Two weeks ago I was at a business meeting, looking at the computer next to me. the screen scene showed Rick, Marilyn and their young family, back around 1995. Taryn was a baby in her mother's arms. Craig and Evan were young boys clowning for the camera. The pastures and fences of Oakencroft formed the background. I looked closely at the Schmidt Lesser progeny next to their parents. FIrst, I saw bits of Rick in the big grins on the little boys faces. They I saw elements of Marilyn--the tilt of their heads, the direct look of their eyes, the slight hooding of their lids. The more I looked, the more of Marilyn I saw. Let us all remember that just as Marilyns's spirit still shines throught in that decade old photo, she is with us in her own way today. She will peek at us behind Evan and Craig's sunny smiles. We may see her in a twist of Taryn's hair. She is at Oakencroft, in the trees and the fences and the gardens and the barns. She will be in the foaling stalls of next year's crop of babies. She will soar over jumps with the horses she worked on. Her fresh scrubbed light will forever glow in Rick's heart. And today, in this church where she worshipped, Marilyn is in all of our hearts. The essence of the people, the animals and the land she loved will always be embraced in the memory of her generous, capable hands, assuring us that all the lives she touched will unfold as nature intended.



(This was read by Ann Dwyer, DVM at Marilyn's service at St. Patricks Church in Ravena, NY on October 1, 2005)

Memorial Tribute for Marilyn

October 2, 2005

Your family is in my thoughts and heart. Very few role models exist in this world. Marilyn is a true inspiration and role model. She will be truly missed. God bless your family.

Linda ( Shorty ) Durant (Overmeade Farm)

October 2, 2005

Rick,

I am so sorry for your loss. I did not have the privilege of knowing Marilyn, but having met you, she could not have been less than wonderful. Take strength from the good memories. God Bless.

Nina Gringeri, Renegade Farm

Nina Gringeri

October 2, 2005

Dear Rick and Family,

I'm very sorry, Marilyn was a great person. She always did so much for everyone, always cared about others and their animals so much. I will miss her with all of my heart. After selling my horse she would always keep me informed on how well he was doing and how happy he was. Marilyn was a great vet!

Tracey Tallman

October 1, 2005

Rick,

My deepest sympathies go to you and your family. MArilyn was a wonderful person in the three weeks that I got to know her, she opened my eyes to alternative medicine lameness uses.

You are in my prayers,

Mike Tweedie.

(Irish vet student that stayed with you in 2001 July)

Michael Tweedie

October 1, 2005

Dear Rick, Evan, Craig, and Taryn:

I am very sorry for your loss. Marilyn is a one-of-a-kind individual. She is known by everyone, and will be truely missed by everyone who's path she crossed. If you ever need anything, please give us a call.

Chad Bauder

October 1, 2005

Dear Rick & Family,



So deeply sorry for the untimely loss of Marilyn. She will be dearly missed by the horse community. It was a privilege knowing her during her time on this earth. You are in my thoughts and prayers, may the the beloved memories of time with Marilyn be with you always and bring you joy. With compassion, Susan Kayne

Susan Kayne

October 1, 2005

Dear: Dr. Rick & Family, Our hearts are heavy with your loss. May you find peace and comfort knowing what a great lady, wife, and mother you have had in your life.



God Bless!

Jerry & JoMarie Burns

October 1, 2005

Our hearts and prayers go out to you at this dificult time. John and Geri Steiner

John Steiner

October 1, 2005

Dear Rick,

My thoughts, sympathy and empathy to you and your children on the sudden loss of Marilyn. My family experienced the same shocking and catastrophic loss not long ago. Marilyn was such an important and long-time member of our equine community. She will be greatly missed by humans and equines alike; and I can't imagine who will ever fill the hole she has left. She will forever be remembered by all of us who knew her. May you find comfort in your children, horses, and the wonderful practice you and Marilyn built together.

Patti DeCaprio

September 30, 2005

Dear Rick and family-No words will ever express the sorrow I feel for all of you and for all of us who knew and loved Marilyn. She will live on forever in my memory for her dedication and love for her work and her family. There were so many times I remember both of you going "above and beyond" for me. Time will lessen the pain but I will never forget her. God Bless all of you.

Barbara Ann Ferraro

September 30, 2005

Dear Rick,

It may have been ages since we've been in contact, and I may now be a long way away, but I still grieve for you. My thoughts are with you and your family.



Beth

Beth Valentine

September 30, 2005

Dear Rick, Evan, Craig and Taryn,

We are so very sorry to hear of your loss. There are no words that are adequate enough to express the sadness that we feel. Kids, we have such fond memories of your Mother, especially of horse shows and the Fair where your Mom was such a strong and wonderful supporter of you! You are all in our thoughts.

Maryl, John, Christopher and Eric Fabian

Maryl Fabian

September 30, 2005

Rick and family,

Our thoughts and prayers are with you all that this difficult time. Marilyn touched a great many lives in a unique and positive way and she will be sorely missed.

Sue and Jim Hooper

September 30, 2005

I am very sorry for your loss. I work for answerphone. Everytime I spoke to Dr Schmidt it would brighten up my day. She will be missed greatly by all. God bless

Jason Schmidt

September 30, 2005

Rick, Evan,Craig,& Taryn: Words cannot express my deepest sympathy. Marilyn was one of the most professional, respectable and compassionate people in her field and just to know her as a friend. I will forever miss seeing her at Saratoga and our conversations, about horses, kids, & just everyday life.

Sandy & Michael Peculis

September 30, 2005

Rick & family

Susan & are were very saddened to hear of your loss. The sorrow that comes with loosing someone you love can feel so unbearable. Physically she may be gone, but her spirit will live with you forever.

Bonnie & Susan

Bonnie Fewtrell

September 30, 2005

We share in you and your family’s sorrow. Take strength in your memories, and have faith in tomorrow.

Our thoughts are with you in this difficult time.

The Staff of Marsha L. Heinke, CPA, Inc.

September 30, 2005

Evan and family, please accept our deepest condolences at this difficult time.



Our thoughts and prays are with you, from wildcat country!



With our deepest sympathy,

Justin Weseloh

Travis Crooks

Brandon Schultz

`

`

Justin Weseloh

September 30, 2005

Rick and Family,



So sorry to hear of the sudden loss of Marilyn. She was a great vet and terrific person. She always had time to answer so many horse questions, even the silly ones. My mom remembers way back when she would have to hold Evan as a baby, so Marilyn could examine my horse.

She will be missed by all in the horse family.



Sincerely, Rosemary and Jane Dellea

Jane Dellea Curtin

September 30, 2005

Rick and Family,

I am very sorry for your loss. Marilyn will be greatly missed. She was a wonderful vet, full of knowledge and really looked forward to seeing her at the Egglehoefer barn - knowing that our horses were going to get the best care.

Heather Brehm

September 30, 2005

To the family,

She was a wife, a mother, a friend and a professional. She did all those things with care and attention. There are not many people who can be all those things. Her life has so much meaning in all of you and the people she has touched. That is eternity. Hold all her memories close in your heart and I hope all you will find some peace as time passes. Thinking of you, Donna Raditic D.V.M.

Donna Raditic

September 30, 2005

Rick,

I am thinking of you. If there is anything I can do please do not hesitate to ask.

Andy Clark

September 30, 2005

Dear Rick & Family

I was so saddened to hear of Marilyn's passing. My family and I are thinking of you and yours and send our love.

Chris Burnett-Wolle

September 30, 2005

Rick, Family & EOC Staff,

It isn't very often that you can find a Vet that will treat your horse like you do but with EOC it's different. I think it's different because Marilyn knew that these animals are like our children and we never want to see them in pain or discomfort. I wish to send EOC my symphathy and my thanks for being the one clinic where we are all family, Marilyn had one heck of a family.

Tammy & Skip Messick

September 30, 2005

^To Rick and family

Marilyn will be greatly missed by all who knew her. Marilyn was always patient,encouraging and supportive towards Tracey and myself.

Nicki and Tracey Tallman

Nicki Tallman

September 30, 2005

Out deepest sympathy

Tobie & Roxanne Tessitore

September 30, 2005

Dear Dr. Lesser, Marilyn's children and the staff at Oakencroft, I was so saddened to learn of Marilyn's sudden death. My deepest sympathies to each of you. As a new horse owner, I learned a great deal from Marilyn each time she visited my horse Jack. The last time I saw her in March, she busily moved between the barn and her van retrieving supplies. I followed her around and presented her on each trip in and out of the barn with her blue mittens that kept falling out of her pockets.

Marilyn left the world a better place for her devotion and goodness.

Deborah Katz and Jack

Deborah Katz

September 30, 2005

Dr. Lesser,

My deepest sympathies go out to you and your family. My thoughts are with you.

Denise Brazell

September 30, 2005

Dear Rick and family Our deepest sympathies to you. We know how much family means to you but can't fathom how this loss affects you personally, as only you can know. Marilyn will be missed, she touched many lives and will always be remembered for all the good things she accomplished. If Rod or I can do anything for you please let us know. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Lynn & Rod Bakos, Renegade Farm

Lynn Bakos

September 30, 2005

Rick- my thoughts are with you, in sorrow.

Betsy McGreggor

September 30, 2005

Dear Rick;



I offer my heartfelt condolences for your loss. Even though I did not know Marilyn, I admired and respected both of you for your wisdom and advise on managing family and veterinary practice. May God bless and comfort you and your family.



Lisa

Lisa Eller, DVM

September 30, 2005

Dear Rick and family,

My deepest sympathies on the loss of such a wonderful women who was truly dedicated to every part of her life. I will especially miss the conversations we had at her van at the Saratoga horse show.

Elissa Topolski

September 30, 2005

Rick and Family- I am so sorry for your loss. Words cannot possibly describe the mix of emotions I feel for you at this time. During my time at Oakencroft, I witnessed not only Marilyn's passion for her work, but also for her family. My time at Oakencroft revived my own love of horses and I will always be grateful for that. Again, I am so sorry and you are in my thoughts and prayers at this time.

Samantha Henrikson

September 30, 2005

I just loved Marilyn. Her expertise was matched by her kindness and generosity with her time and knowledge. I learned so much from her in a short time. The loss to her family is indescribably sad. My family and I will be keeping you in our prayers. May the peace of God that surpasses all understanding be with all of you.

Dorothy McDevitt

September 30, 2005

Dear Rick and family, It's so sad to hear of your loss and the loss of a great DVM to the capital district. My sympathy goes out to you, your family, and co-workers. May the memories of her help you thur these hard times.

karen miller

September 30, 2005

Dear Rick, Evan, Craig, Taryn, and all the ECO Family,



As usual at times like this, words fail. Marilyn's death is a sad shock. She was scheduled to see three of my horses this morning. I still expect the van pull up to the barn any moment, disgorging Marilyn, Leo the lab, and perhaps a few dashboard papers if the wind is gusty....



From all those hours as her driver last spring, I know she would call you daily from the road, keeping tabs on school, meals, activities, chores and to say she loved you. It won't be from her cellphone any more, but she will continue to send the same message from her new abode.



Thoughts and prayers from all the species at Ironhorse Farm.



Kate and Wayne

Kate Bailey

September 30, 2005

FROM EVERYONE AT OVERMEADE FARM

IT WAS AN HONOR TO HAVE KNOWN MARILYN.

KEN & SALLY HART

September 30, 2005

Rick & Family,



Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. To see Marilyn treating a horse or taking in a local event with the kids was to see a person who made the moments matter. She will be greatly missed.

Jean McWilliams & John Cebula

September 30, 2005

Dear Rick, Evan, Craig, Taryn,

My thoughts and prayer's are with you. Please accept my deepest condolences, as clich'e as they may sound. I was so sad to hear of Marilyn's passing. You and Marilyn were so inspirational and supportive of my daughter Ashley over the years; I never had a chance to tell her how much I appriciated her care and encouragement. May all of our prayers and faith help you through this most difficult time. My heart aches for you sadness.

Kathleen Armer

September 30, 2005

Dear Rick and Family,

I am so sorry about your loss. Marilyn has been my vet for over 20 years and has gone over and above to help me with my horses. She was also one of the most upbeat people I had known, always able to put a positive spin to most situations. She will be missed in the horse world.

Sheila Nagengast

September 30, 2005

Dr. Lesser, Evan, Craig, and Taryn,



Please accept my deepest sympathy and know that I will keep you all in my thoughts and prayers.



Michael Vecchia

InterClub Race Staff

Bousquet Ski Area

Michael Vecchia

September 30, 2005

I had the honor of working with Marilyn over the last five months. The way in which she worked with my horses, with kindness, passion, and humbleness was an expression of her that will remain with us forever. She was joy to have as a member of our team.

Clare Bronfman

September 30, 2005

Dr. Lesser, We never met, but I did contact you about a position a couple of years ago. I was shocked and saddened to read of the loss of your wife. My heartfelt sympathies -- I feel so sad for you.

Gayle Sommer

September 30, 2005

Rick,Evan,Craig,and Taryn,

Our deepest condolences. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. We are a LaSalle Institute family and live near you. If we can be of assistance to you at this time or in the future please ask (439-7338). Susan, Jeff, Jim, and Ross Travis

September 30, 2005

Evan, my condolences go out to you and your family, I didn't know your mother well, but she seemed like a great person at your Graduation party

Robert Barbour

September 29, 2005

Dear Rick, Evan, Craig & Taryn,

We were so saddened to hear of Marilyn's sudden death. Our hearts are heavy for each of you. Know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.

Justin & Mary Janssen

Justin & Mary Janssen

September 29, 2005

Dear Rick,

I remember talking to you about your practice and the wonderful way you and Marilyn mangaged family and professional time.You both are role models as parents and veterinarians. I hope that friends and family can comfort you and hold you in this difficult time.

Karen Nyrop

September 29, 2005

Rick,

My sincere sympathy and condolences for you and your family's loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Life is the journey, and may you have some cherished memories that will last forever. With love.

duncan peters

September 29, 2005

I am so sorry for all of you and for all whose life she touched: man and animal. I can only say that Marilyn, Mary Stokes and I went back a long way through (what else)...horses, and that she was my hero. She was always the most dedicated vet no matter the time of day or year; and later, the most dedicated parent, not shirking one for the other but incorporating all aspects of her loves to fit into her life. I guess I am most shocked as only a few months ago we were lamenting the fact that we all now needed to wear "reader" glasses in order to hit a vein. How lucky we were then to have that as our only worry. I will miss her enormously and will always remember the "readers" moment.

Lisa Sauer

September 29, 2005

I feel truly blessed to have been able to share in Marilyn's expertise. Her passion for both work and personal life will be remembered. My thoughts and prayers are with the family.

Courtney Sutphen

September 29, 2005

Rob and I send our deepest sympathies to you and your family

Erin Denney-Jones

September 29, 2005

Marilyn was such an icon in our horse community. I'm sure she has a lot of animals greeting her at the Animal Bridge. Our deepest sympathy to her family and the Oakencroft staff.

Liz Chauvot

September 29, 2005

Please accept my deepest sympathy on the loss of Marilyn. During my externship I felt welcomed into your family and was touched by your closeness and devotion to each other. My heart goes out to all of you.

Michelle

Michelle Courtemanche DVM

September 29, 2005

To Rick and family- Marilyn and I had a very long professional and personal relationship. I learned much from her as a vet. We had many heartfelt chats about the long hours we worked as dedicated horsepeople, but more about how much we loved our families and our children. Words can not express how sorry I am for your shocking loss. My prayers are with you and your family.

Shawn Gallager

September 29, 2005

Rick...

My thoughts and prayers are w/you and your family at this difficult time.

Claudia Harrison

September 29, 2005

Dear Rick,

Words cannot express the sorrow we feel during this time. We are thinking of you and know that the years you and Marilyn shared will help you get through. She will always live through you and your children.



John & Lyn

John & Lyn Wood

September 29, 2005

Sincerest sympathy,Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Ben and Eileen Franklin

Ben Franklin

September 29, 2005

Dan Marks

September 29, 2005

Dear Rick & Family, We were so very saddened by your loss. To lose someone so vibrant and young so suddenly is numbing at the very least. Our prayers for your strength and faith at this time are with you. Tom & Valerie Newell & Family, Sandy Creek Farm, Glenmont, NY

Tom & Valerie Newell

September 29, 2005

Rick - My sincerest condolences to you and your family. I never really met or got to know your wife but I do know, from our many interactions at practice management meetings together, just how important family life and quality of life in general was to you. A tragic event such as this truly places things in perspective. I have always admired from a distance what you and your wife constructed as far as a successful practice arrangement while maintaining your vision of family and friends. My best wishes as you soldier on now. I hope that you will treasure the memories that remain of working together with Marilyn.



Regards,



Mitchell

Mitchell Rode

September 29, 2005

Dr. Lesser and Children,



I am the woman that brought Craig and Taryn to the hospital. They are wonderful children, so brave. I've only talked to Marilyn a few times on the soccer field with the St. Thomas children. After reading all the beautiful things people had to say about her, I wish I had a chance to know her better. She sounds like an amazing woman. Please know that your family is in my prayers.

Colleen Saxe

September 29, 2005

Rick, When you spoke to the KSU students about Marilyn, work-life balance, and your practice, it was clear to everyone in the room that your love and admiration for her was genuine and profound. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Bonnie

Bonnie Rush

September 29, 2005

I am thinking about you and your family. We've known eachother a long time.

Joe Bertone

September 29, 2005

My thoughts and prayers are with the Lesser family as well as the ECO family.

Marilyn was my Airedale Knute's chiropractor. She was so kind and compassionate and oh so gentle with my fragile senior Airedale.

I enjoyed our sessions and the canine discussions with Marilyn.

May your memories help you through this difficult time.

You are in my prayers.

Lisa Ashton

September 29, 2005

To Rick and family:

Marilyn was not only there when we needed her for the last 20 some years, but also a friend.

I remember just this past year at Saratoga, she sang Happy Birthday to me at the food tent( the whole song)with this big smile on her face.

I was astonished and laughed, as this was very unMarilynlike behaviour.

Iam going to miss her very much, as she has left a hole in our lives.

I can only wish that there are plenty of horses in heaven for her to take care of, and our hearts go out to you Rick, and all your family.

Patti and Paul Subik

Patti Subik

September 29, 2005

Rick, my wife Laurie and I are praying for you and the children. May you find God's peace.

Rocky Bigbie

September 29, 2005

Rick, Evan, Craig, and Taryn

Our thoughts and prayers are with you. I am so happy we had a chance to get to meet Marilyn in Winterpark. We were privileged to get to know her. Your faith will serve you well knowing that Marilyn has gone to her reward and is waiting for you all to join her. Lloyd, Jana, and Bryan

Lloyd Kloppe

September 29, 2005

Rick,

It is with deepest sympathy that I have learned the news of Marilyn's passing. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.God Bless.



Stuart

Stuart Brown

September 29, 2005

Simple condolences seem insufficient to such a tragic loss, but my sympathies are with you and your family.



Brian

Brian MacNamara

September 29, 2005

Dr. Lesser, With all the years of you being our vet we never had the pleasure of meeting Marilyn. Our hearts and prayers are with and we pray God will give you peace at this time. With Love, Gary & Betsy from Hi Wind Farm

Gary & Betsy Caffrey

September 29, 2005

Rick,



I am so sorry for your loss. If there is anything I can do, please let me know.



Scott Taylor

Scott Taylor

September 29, 2005

Rick,Evan,Craig,and Taryn,

Many are Marilyn's admirers for her untiring work on behalf of the equine population. Yet, nothing made her prouder or quicker to smile, than talking about her family and their shared achievments. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. John and Chris Sutphen

Chris Sutphen

September 29, 2005

My sincere condolences to the family.

Eric Peterson

September 29, 2005

Dear Rick and family, I wish to express my deepest sympathy over Marylin's sudden unexpected passing. I was lucky enough to spend a few hours with her on Monday morning and we had a very enjoyable visit together. Words can't describe how much she will be missed as the great lady she was.

Joyce Bracht

September 29, 2005

Dear Rick and family, I wish to express my deepest sympathy over Marylin's sudden unexpected passing. I was lucky enough to spend a few hours with her on Monday morning and we had a very enjoyable visit together. Words can't describe how much she will be missed as the great lady she was. Joyce Bracht

Joyce Bracht

September 29, 2005

Rick and family,



I am so sorry to hear about Marilyn's passing. She was and will continue to be an inspriation to everyone who knew her.

Paula (Taylor) Divine

September 29, 2005

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