Mary Armbruster

Mary Lou "Marlou" Armbruster (née Bolender), age 97, passed away peacefully on August 26, 2025, in East Islip, New York. A lifelong resident of Lindenhurst, New York, Mary's life was marked by devotion-to her family, her faith, and her community.

Born on March 31, 1928, in Buffalo, New York, Mary was raised in Lindenhurst where she lived on the same street for an extraordinary 87 years. She spent her childhood in her parents' home and later returned there for four years after marrying Roy Armbruster of Baldwin, New York. Together they moved just a few houses down the street and undertook the remarkable task of relocating a three-story Victorian house across the road to create their family home-a testament to their shared ambition and love for their neighborhood.

Mary pursued higher education with determination and purpose. She earned an associate's degree in Dental Hygiene from the State University at Farmingdale and later completed a Bachelor's degree at the University of Bridgeport in Connecticut. Her passion for education led her to a fulfilling career teaching dental assisting to high school students through BOCES for two decades. Mary truly enjoyed her time as an educator and took great pride in helping shape the futures of her students.

In retirement, Mary continued to give generously of herself. She volunteered extensively at Good Samaritan Hospital's Ambulatory Surgery Department and was an active member of one of its guilds. Every Friday evening she could be found lending a hand in the hospital gift shop; Thursdays were devoted entirely to volunteering at the hospital's thrift shop. Through raffles and sales organized by the guilds, Mary helped raise funds that supported hospital initiatives-quiet acts of service that reflected her deep commitment to helping others.

Mary's generosity extended beyond formal volunteering. She was known for quietly assisting neighbors in need-making hospital visits or ensuring those who struggled could still enjoy a warm meal. Her kindness was constant and unassuming.

A woman of deep Roman Catholic faith, Mary found great comfort and strength through her church. Her spirituality was a guiding force throughout her life.

Family was at the heart of everything Mary did. She is survived by her loving children: Sandra Miller (Joseph), Thomas Armbruster (Kathlene), and Richard Armbruster (Lori). She cherished her nine grandchildren: Jennifer Boyle, Jessica McKeown, Sandra Hill, Susan Dietrich, Thomas Armbruster, Timothy Armbruster, Marriah Daye, Eric Armbruster, and Amanda Armbruster. Mary was also blessed with 24 great-grandchildren who brought immense joy into her life.

She leaves behind her dear sister Aimee Bolender and her beloved godchild Valerie Jorlind-both held special places in Mary's heart.

Mary was predeceased by Roy Armbruster, her devoted husband of 57 years; by her parents Esther Anne and Bernard J. Bolender; siblings Bernard Bolender and Lois Scholer; and by one cherished great-grandchild, baby Sebastian.

Some of Mary's happiest moments were spent with Roy and their family at their simple yet beloved retreat on the water in Hampton Bays. There they enjoyed boating and fishing-quiet pleasures that reflected Mary's appreciation for life's simple gifts.

Mary Lou "Marlou" Armbruster will be remembered as a woman whose life embodied compassion, humility, dedication, and love. May her memory bring comfort to all who knew and loved her. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on September 1, 2025, at 09:45 AM at Our Lady of Perpetual Help sandramiller2626@gmail.com