Mariana M. Bulinkis

Mariana Meneses Bulinkis, 82, of West Chester, PA, passed away peacefully on Saturday May 19, 2012. She was born to the late former Consul General to Cuba Nicolas E. Meneses and Viola M. Kleintop in Brooklyn, New York, on May 15, 1930 and was the youngest sibling of Nicolas, Robert, James, Violette, and Oscar Meneses. The family moved from Brooklyn, NY to Norristown, PA, and then to Yeadon, PA; spending summers in Cuba until the overthrow of the Batista Government by Fidel Castro in the 1950's. Interested in sports, drama and cheerleading, Mariana graduated from Yeadon High School. Over the course of her career, she was employed by Puppy Palace, Republic Steel, and the Department of Anesthesia for Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. She retired as an Executive Administrator from the Department of Intercommunity Health Coordination of Delaware County and the Council of Delaware County awarded her excellent record of service to the citizens and employees of Delaware County by passing a resolution on her behalf. Mariana was a loving and giving person with a great sense of humor. Surprises always left her speechless. She was a devoted and hardworking mother, talented cook and gardener. She made a mean Cuban Arroz con Pollo. Mariana had a special warm spot for all animals and over the years had many wonderful pets from birds to dogs to cats. She was a big fan of classic movies and a dedicated Frank Sinatra-ophile. Most of all she enjoyed spending time with her family and friends. Mariana is survived by her devoted husband of 36 years, Joseph; her loving children Gwendolyn; Uhler, Edgar (Donna) Uhler, and Karl (Cookie) Uhler; Deborah Mell Taylor, Linda Mell Summerlin, and Sharon Mell Bloomer; Terese (Thomas) Platten and Christopher (Joan) Bulinkis; her grandchildren, Jessica (Ken) Ackerly, Ashley (Gordon) McIlroy, Christopher (Whitney) Uhler, Colin Uhler, and Isabel Platten; great grandchildren Brianna, Jayda, Summer, Cheyenne, Paige Ackerly, and Silas McIlroy; and many loving nieces, nephews, grandnieces, and grandnephews. Relatives and friends may call on Thurs. May 24, 2012 from 9-10AM at Alleva Funeral Home, Inc.; 1724 East Lancaster Ave. Paoli, PA 19301. A Memorial Service will begin at 10AM. Inurnment to follow at Valley Forge Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Mariana's honor to: Chester County SPCA (CCSPCA) 1212 Phoenixville Pike West Chester, PA 19380.