Mary Catherine Forness

Mary Catherine Forness

CUBA - Born April 22 1930, Mary Catherine Forness passed peacefully in her sleep Sunday (Sept. 4, 2022) at Cuba Memorial Hospital, where she had been a resident for the past 10 years.

Mary was a devout Catholic and was an active member of the Basilica of St. Mary of the Angels church.

Mary was a passionate champion for wildlife. Formerly of Haskell Road, Cuba, she and her husband John W. Forness founded and operated Hawk Hideaway Rehabilitation Center, a haven for injured wildlife and birds of prey.

Mary and John were a part of several wildlife organizations, including a state-wide initiative to "Save the Ospreys." One might see that influence in harbors and reservoirs across New York state in the form of tall platforms which provide ideal nests for once nearly extinct osprey.

Known to her grandchildren as "Hawkie," they remember her home as nothing short of an adventure. There were always new sounds and animals to learn about. They might even encounter a black bear, a bald eagle or a personal favorite of Hawkie's, a snowy owl.

She is survived by Roger Forness of Kailua, Hawaii; and her grandchildren, Heather Forness Thomas, Malia Forness, Dylan, Morgan, Owen and Carson Bush, Teegan Forness, Ann Forness Lummel and Cody Forness.

Mary was predeceased by her loving husband of over 65 years, John W. Forness; her sons, Michael Forness and Kevin Forness; her daughter, M. Michele Bush; and her grandson, Shawn Michael Forness.

Friends will be received from 10 to 11 a.m. today (Sept. 8, 2022) at the Basilica of St. Mary's of the Angels, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial. Burial will be in St. Bonaventure Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that a donation be made to the World Wildlife Fund in Mary's memory.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Letro-McIntosh-Spink Funeral Home, Inc., 646 E. State St., Olean.

Online condolences may be made at www.letromcintoshspinkfuneralhome.com.