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Albert Mamary Obituary
of Binghamton, NY: Albert Mamary, 78, of Binghamton, NY, died of pancreatic cancer at his home on February 23, 2011.
A Thank You Farewell
My life has been a fulfilled one, and I die happy and in peace.
I am thankful for my wonderful and beautiful wife, Mary, who provided for me a life of happiness filled with contentment, laughter, and love. We hugged, laughed, and held hands every day of our lives together. I loved her more each day than the day before.
I am thankful for my children, Anne and James?for all the love, the dumb jokes, and the academic and philosophical discussions and for their good moral and caring dispositions. I have often praised them as friends rather than only as my children. We were very much alike.
I am also thankful for my stepchildren, Kristin, Scott, and Peter. We shared love, laughter, and respect as we blended our lives. I have learned a lot from them.
I am thankful for my grandchildren, Gabrielle, Jonah, Joshua, Alice, Hannah Rose, Lea, Lily Ruth, Matthew and Sophia, who have brought immeasurable happiness to my life.
I'm thankful for all my colleagues in education, who taught me well by their example and by their willingness to work for the good of all children?and I do mean all children. When they said, "all children can learn well," they meant it and made it happen.
I am thankful to my grandfather, who saved my childhood by being there, and to my mother, who gave me her genes to look for the good in everyone and to help me to think generous and patient thoughts.
And, finally, I am thankful to all of my friends who journeyed with me to celebrate a life of joy.
At my request, there will be no calling hours or service. To remember me, do something nice for an educator.
?
A visionary academic, Albert Mamary loved Johnson City, where he was superintendent of schools from 1982-1992. He lived by "doing what was right for kids" and his belief that "every child can learn well, given enough time." He trained educators in every state in the U.S. and in Italy, Spain, China, and Australia.
Al received his B.S. from Mansfield State Teachers College, his M.S. from the University of Minnesota, and studied at Stanford University before earning the Ed.D. from Columbia University. A math teacher who loved math theory, Al had little patience with addition and subtraction. He co-authored 23 (or was it 24?) successful math textbooks.
Al loved his community. He volunteered for innumerable local organizations, including the Johnson City Senior Citizens Center, Planned Parenthood, and the Broome County Arts Council, which he helped to found. He served as Chair of the Roberson Museum and Science Center Board of Directors and was President of the Hoyt Foundation Board.
In addition to the family mentioned above, Al leaves behind his brothers, Joe and Andy; his sisters-in-law, Mary?the last of the sittus?and Linda; his cousin Cassie; his daughters-in-law, Celia and Mary, and his son-in-law, Lew; several aunts and uncles, nieces and nephews. Gloria Block, Ross and Carole Peduto, Faith and El Zinner, Jan and Mike Peter, Pat and Carolyn Gilligan and others were friends and caregivers beyond compare, enriching his life and comforting him through his illness.
Al made a mark on the hearts of so many with his generosity, warmth, and accessibility, with his caring and his brilliance. Al was one-of-a-kind?a perfect blend of head and heart.
There will be a celebration of his life at a later time.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Albert Mamary
Ellen M. Kennicutt
June 7, 2021
Anne,your father and mother are a part of my years of education;like you they will always be remembered with love.
Greg Reynolds
March 22, 2011
Mary,
I wish to send my prayers to you and your family. I will never forget the time you and Al came aboard the Cindarella while we cruised up and down the Hudson River enjoying the stories Al had to share. We will miss him greatly.
Greg Reynolds
(Capt. M/V Cindarella)
Diane Gossen
March 20, 2011
I will never forget the first time I met with the Johnson City administrative team in 1989. I was teaching Control Theory. Within 10 minutes of the beginning of my presentation Al said to me "Just a minute! " and began to dialogue with Frank Alessi and Larry Rowe about what I had presented. There ensued a vigorous conversation between all of us aligning how ControlTheory fit with our beliefs that internal motivation was the key to real learning. I remember thinking on the plane that night on my way home to Saskatchewan" This is what Education should sound like!" I continued to be inspired by the Johnson City model for a decade. Al's example inspired me to write Creating The Conditions with Dr. Anderson. Above all what I saw in Al and have tried to emulate is his marvelous example of shared leadership. Many schools are better places for children because of who Al was.Everyone he worked with he honored. Now it is my privilege to honor him . In sorrow Diane Gossen.
Marc Newman & family
March 17, 2011
Mary,
we would like to express our deepest condolences. Although I didn't know Al personally, our paths have crossed through the years indirectly, and I know him to have been an outstanding educator and selfless community leader a true loss to this community.
Pam Washburn
March 8, 2011
Dear Mary and Family,
I was so sad to hear of Al's passing. I will always be grateful for the time I spent with Al & "the team" traveling around to train schools. I will always be inspired by his dedication and passion for others. I am so grateful for the lessons I learned from Al. He was a tremendous mentor and a man of integrity. God Bless you and I am sorry for your loss.
March 7, 2011
Dear Mary, I just received an e mail from Joan. Our prayers for you and your family. May God be with you all.
Carolynn & Lou Palombo
Laura and Jorge Daboub
March 4, 2011
They say a man is judged by his deeds and the quality of his friends. Al was exceptionally accomplished on both fronts, as evident from the loving messages of praise and gratitude from so many wonderful family, friends and colleagues...and Mary, my mother’s best friend and a true gem, is a beautiful reflection of their mutual love. May the comfort of God and the love of those around you give you strength during this time of sorrow.
Larry Bell
March 3, 2011
Mary, I'm sorry for your loss. The one thing that always stood out in my mind, was how much you and Al were in love with each other.You could feel it when you were together and it lit up you face from the moment you met him. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. -
Dr. Floyd McDowell, Sr.
March 2, 2011
My favorite memory of Al is ALL memories from my first interaction with him approximately thirty years ago. I studied under nationally recognized education scholars, and worked with many for over twenty years as a national Consultant/Trainer. For thirty-two years, I published hundreds of their professional articles as Editor-in-Chief of three national/international professional education journals. I rank Dr. Al Mamary as the top ducation reform leader in the world over the last fifty years. Interweave that he also has this ranking as a caring, loving human being. Thanks, Al, your legacy will continue to help improve the quality of life four our nation's children and youth and those in many other nations.
Doris (Kate) Thomann
March 1, 2011
Dear Mary, my heart goes out to you! I only knew you and Al for a short period of time but was impressed with the love, warmth and affection that was so obvious between you. My husband's fondness for Al was evident in the many stories he related to me from their early years. He was a remarkable man and will be sorely missed. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Doris (Kate) Thomann.
March 1, 2011
MY BOYHO0OD BEST FRIEND. WE HAD A LOT OF GOOD TIMES TOGETHER. HE WAS VERY BRIGHT AND A WONDERFUL KIND PERSON. A GENTLEMAN AND A GENTLE MAN.I WILL MISS HIM A LOT. DON THOMANN, BEL AIR, MARYLAND
Peg Bouren Squire
February 28, 2011
My deepest sympathy to your family. I worked with Dr. Mamary when he served on the board of the Johnson City Senior Center and I was the Office for Aging staff assigned to the center. From large issues to small problems, his wisdom and support were invaluable as we developed the center. I enoyed the time we worked together.
Jeanette Fendick
February 28, 2011
Mary & Family,
I am sorry to hear of your husband's passing. My hearfelt sympathy is with you at this difficult time. Cherish your memories.
Dr Frank & Joyce Gilroy
February 28, 2011
Mary,
We were saddened to learn of Al's death, although we knew how ill he had been. Our thoughts and prayers are with him and your family.
Krishna Mathison
February 28, 2011
Mary,
Each moment of life, taken on its own, is imprisoned. It is a fragment, and as such, orphaned from its meaning, like torn pages of a book scattered by the wind. Remembrance creates a gestalt, a wholeness in which all things are redeemed and complete.
Krishna
Patti & Ken Anderson
February 27, 2011
Dear Mary
I was so sad to hear of Al's passing. Mary...you and Al have left the most indelible memories in my heart. I loved talking to Al in the garden; trading solutions to keeping the 'Bambi's' away from our plantings! What a great laugh too! I am a better person for having known him.
Our most heartfelt sympathies to you and your family. He will be missed.
Patti and Ken Anderson
Phillip Hays
February 27, 2011
February 27, 2011
Dear Mamary family,
My sincerest condolences to you and yours on Al's passing. Al was a great educator and a truly nice man. Heaven will be enriched by his presence.
February 27, 2011
Dear Mary --
You and your family have our deepest, heartfelt condolences on Al's recent passing. Although this is a very difficult time for you, may you all derive some measure of solace in the memories of the many happy times that you enjoyed together, and in the confidence that Al rests in peace. REQUIESCAT IN PACE...
Tony and Kathleen Vetrano
February 26, 2011
Dear Mary, our sincere condolences to you and to your family. We will truly miss him. (Barbar & Josephine Haykal/Elie & Madona Haykal-Vestal)
February 26, 2011
Dear Mary,
Our sincerest condolences to you, James and Anne. Boots was a one-of-a-kind guy who I was always proud to call 'cousin'. I was certainly aware of his significant academic and professional accomplishments but what I most admired and loved about Boots was his warmth, sincerity and wonderful sense of humor. Whenever I saw him at family gatherings he always had a wonderful way of making people feel they were important to him. I can see from the remarks in the Guest Book that this personal warmth extended well beyond family, and I'm not surprised. Your loss is felt by us all.
Love,
Mike and Donna Victor
February 26, 2011
Dear Mary:
Our sincere condolences to you and your family. Al was a true gentleman and excellent educator. He will be missed.
Brenda and Mort Levy Miami Beach FL
Dom & Margaret Tammetta
February 26, 2011
Dear Mary, Our thoughts -
O' let us weep for Al
His integrity was to the core
He probably would have eschewed our tears
But no man deserves them more
Dom & Margaret
Steve Myers
February 26, 2011
Dear Mary,I really enjoyed helping you both at Olums during your appliance purcase.Al was always a pleasure to work with and always spoke kindly.I will truly miss him.God bless you.
Steve Peter
February 25, 2011
All my sympathies to Al's family and to those who knew and loved him. He and you will be in our thoughts.
Maureen Maney
February 25, 2011
My deepest sympathies to Dr. Mamary’s family. I will always remember him for his enthusiasm and the Wildcat pride he exuded at all times. There is no doubt he bled maroon and white. He fostered an outstanding atmosphere for students that made us truly proud to say that we went to JC. I know from my mother that he was incredibly supportive of his staff and exemplified a true leader. What impressed me most about him was that whenever I was with my mom and we would see him, he always took the time to stop, have a conversation to say hello, offer a big smile of his, and ask how the JC grads were doing. He was always so warm, sincere, and genuinely caring. He will be missed. JCHS Class of 1993
February 25, 2011
A true educational leader who grounded every decision in a strong belief in kindness and trust in children, their ability to learn, and those who guide them throughout their educational journey-a true mentor who I was fortunate enough to have the honor to work with.
February 25, 2011
Anne and James- I am very sorry for your loss!I remember your Dad's fun spirit well, even though it was many years ago that we spent time together. Enjoy your memories!! Nikki Hambalek-Lamb
Glenn Brigham
February 25, 2011
It is with such sadness that I learned of the passing of this remarkable man. I can count on one hand the truly inspirational leaders that I have had the pleasure to learn from, and follow, and Al was at the forefront. Not only was he a visionary, but he had the compassion of a saint. An unusual human being who has left a lasting legacy of touching so many with his kindness, wit, and understanding.
Dear Mary, you are in our prayers.
Tanya Perhach Silivestro
February 25, 2011
I was blessed to have known Dr. Mamary so well, being down the hall from the place I loved the most, the choir room. His door was always open to me, which I had always valued. He was more than just a superintendent, he was a person who listened. Every single fundraiser I had, he and Mr. Rowe bought, and was always very jovial in nature! For the first time at JC, he handed a student their diploma, and it was me, with a sense of humor all his own, that I will remember always. He gave me valuable advice for life's journey and told me no matter what, make yourself happy. I know he did exactly that. I give a standing ovation to him and wish the family he leaves behind, great comfort in being part of such a great man's life. Class of '90
Beverly Rainforth
February 25, 2011
I had the great pleasure of starting my relationship with the JC schools while Al was superintendent. His knowledge, beliefs, and inspiration were apparent in everything, from orientation day for new teachers to the "success questions" that guided how teachers dealt with day-to-day challenges. On the few occasions I saw Al after he retired, he always greeted me like a long lost friend, making ME feel like the most influential person HE had ever known. Al was the best kind of school leader, wanting the best for children and adults, and showing all how we could be our best. His warmth will keep him alive in the hearts of all he touched.
Denise paradis
February 25, 2011
Dr. Mamary was an enthusiastic spirit whom I will always remember with fondness. I worked with him from 1985 -1989 at JCHS. He taught by example, to embrace life and never stop learning & teaching others, with his infectious energy and bright smile. May God bless his spirit and his family in their loss. --D. Paradis
February 25, 2011
Dear Mary and Family,
I only met Al once or twice, but my sister, Jeanie Burns, often spoke of Al with endearing stories. He sounded like a wonderful man, and I know he will be missed by all who knew and loved him.
My thoughts are with you during this difficult time.
With Deepest Sympathy,
Vicki White
Phil Sherotov
February 25, 2011
As a young teacher Al, though long retired, was kind enough to take me under his wing and mentor me. His support, encouragement, and faith, as much as his considerable wisdom and greatness as a teacher, helped me to learn well and achieve my goals.
In always choosing to do "the right thing" over just "doing things right" he left an example I will always try to live up to. My life has been immeasurably enriched by the gift of his friendship and he will always have a very special place in my heart.
Ron Abess
February 24, 2011
Doc Mamary, Thank you for service to the community and JC School district. It was a pleasure seeing you just a few years ago after being out of the area for many years. Rest in peace - Life Well Done! Class of 1980
Dougals Green
February 24, 2011
Al was a wonderful human being. It was a joy to spend time with him. He had a child-like view of the world and never stopped seeing the wonders about him. He enriched all who were lucky enough to know him. Douglas W. Green
Elaine Worden
February 24, 2011
Dear Mary,
I am so sorry to hear of Al's passing. Gary told me many wonderful stories about Al and his dedication to education. I'll always remember the wonderful time we had together in Naples at your favorite Greek restaurant. Surely Al and Gary are sharing many memories and laughs together! My prayers are with you.
February 24, 2011
Dear Mary and family,
We are so sad to hear about Al's passing. He was such a sincerely kind and caring man who we feel privileged to have known. You both were such a beautiful inspiration of true love. How great that you found each other. Our prayers are with you always.
Andrea and Phil Marella
Rosita Delia
February 24, 2011
Dear Mary and Family,
Unfortunately, I did not have the opportunity to meet Albert but he was a friend to my sister, Tirsa Koper. I smiled at the portion of Albert's obituary in which he speaks of his wonderful and beautiful wife, Mary. Fortunately, I have met Mary and feel I know her well through my sister, who died of ovarian cancer in August. I too feel Mary is wonderful and beautiful and thank her for bringing that wonder and beauty into my sister's life for a number of years. Mary, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this very sad time.
Rosita Delia
Pat Kelly OConnor
February 24, 2011
Dearest Mary, It was my honor to know and work with Al in the course of my children's education. Al offered support, guidance and caring as we worked our way through the "Build A Dream" playground project and to me personally as a young parent. He had a magical way of making a person feel valued. His laugh was genuine, his smile warm and his sincerity touching.
You and your family remain in my heart and my prayers. Lovingly, Peace, Pat "Kelly" OConnor
February 24, 2011
Dear Mary, Julio and I were very sorry to read about your husband's death. After reading the obituary, we are even more sorry that we never had a chance to meet him. We think of you often and it's always a happy memory. With love from Joan and Julio
Mayor John Bertoni
February 24, 2011
To the Family of Al Mamery my condolences. I would run into Al or be involved in a conversation at times with he and my good friend Larry Rowe who succeded Al.Good friends they were and I know how highly Larry thought of Al and for good reason. Know he will be missed by many and it was my pleasure to know him when I served as Town Supervisor.
David Stark
February 24, 2011
Albert was a true champion of public education. My Dad was a member of the Board of Ed from 1949 to 1963 and would have proud to see the innovations which Dr. Al brought about. The honored traditions of the JC district were carried on by Albert.
Mary was his strength and # 1 supporter
Dave Stark Class ofJune 1951
Phillip Sherotov
February 24, 2011
As a young teacher Al, though long retired, was kind enough to take me under his wing and mentor me. His support, encouragement, and faith, as much as his considerable wisdom and greatness as a teacher, helped me to learn well and achieve my goals.
In always choosing to do "the right thing" over just "doing things right" he left an example I will always try to live up to.
I will always be grateful that I had the opportunity to know and learn from him.
Best wishes,
Bob Every
February 24, 2011
Dear Mary & Family,
Our community and this world has lost a most wonderful man and friend . Al and you Mary, had a lot to smile about and you both wore the smiles well . Barb and I will mourn at the passing of Al and we will offer prayers for both of you.
Karen Beckhorn
February 24, 2011
Dear Mary & Family,
Al was a remarkable man and the truest of friends, especially to my parents. He leaves us with fond and happy memories which we will treasure forever. Our hearfelt sympathy goes out to you.
Wendy Riechers
February 24, 2011
Mary and Family, I will always remember Al for his friendly smile and kindness. It was always a joy to visit with you both when our busy lives crossed. My deepest heartfelt sympathy for the world has lost a great man and heaven has won a great angel.
Lovingly,
Peg Johnston
February 24, 2011
My condolences to Al's family and especially his daughter Anne, whom I knew a long time ago. My father spoke highly of him; I think they were in Rotary together. Best wishes.
Mark McDonough
February 24, 2011
Dear Mary and Family;
We are very sorry for your loss of a great man.We were privleged to have called Al our friend.He was caring and wonderful individual.
we will keep al and your family in our thoughts and prayers.
Sincerely
Mark and Carol McDonough
ANDY MAMARY
February 24, 2011
MY DEEPEST SYMPATHY,THE WORLD HAS LOST A GREAT PERSON. HE WAS ONE OF A KIND. HE WILL CERTAINLY BE MISSED. HE WAS LOVED BY ALL THOSE LIVES HE HAS TOUCHED. I LOST A GREAT BROTHER.
Phillip & Mary Burkholder
February 24, 2011
Please accept our deepest sympathies.
Theresa Leahy Familo
February 24, 2011
Dr. Mamary was an incredible man and leader of the Wildcat Community. I feel blessed to have had the opportunity to know him, as he was a true inspiration to his students. I will always remember his smile and encouragement to always strive for the best.
May you rest in peace Dr. Mamary. The Lord has a new angel.
Francie Cook
February 24, 2011
Mary,
My deepest sympathy goes out to you and your family.
February 24, 2011
We have lost a true friend of education.
Albert was always courteous and friendly when we met. As a JC grad I followed his innovations with the distict. He struck gold when he married Mary ! I was intrigued by his commentary reviewing his life in the obituary notice. He will sorely be missed.
Stan Kosick
February 24, 2011
The Wildcat Nation has lost a great one. Thank you Dr Mamary for overseeing a great experience during my High School career. Thank you for bolstering the foundation on which I built my life.
February 24, 2011
My Dearest Mary, what a beautiful obituary he wrote. It made me cry , especially the part about you and his grandfather. The community has lost a valuable asset and you have lost a wonderful lover and friend. Many people never experience what you and Al shared. Your romance was one of a kind and you are blessed to have had it for such a long time.
My thoughts and sympathies are with you and your caring , loving family.
Andy Kent
Jim Victor
February 24, 2011
I will miss "Boots". He was a wonderful, caring, smart, articulate guy who happened to be my cousin. My sincere condolences to Mary ,his children ,his brothers, and the remaining family.
Tammy Dobrosielski
February 24, 2011
I remember Dr. Mamary so well. He was the superintendent of schools but also accessible even to us lowly students. He listened, he always had a smile on his face and we all knew him on sight. That alone says much about the kind of person he was. My sincere condolences to his family and wishes for peace as you celebrate his life and learn to go on without him.
Tammy Martin Dobrosielski JCHS class of 86
Carolyn Toner
February 24, 2011
I was blessed to work for Dr. Mamary when he wrote one of his last books. He was a true visionary! Johnson City is, and always will be, a better place because of the imprint he left here. Truly, one of THE best guys I've ever had the pleasure of working for.
Shelly Hutchko (Ritlinger)
February 24, 2011
I express my deepest sympathies. I graduated from JC in 1985 and I knew Dr. Mamary. He was ALWAYS smiling and always happy. I know that he is responsible for making a huge difference in the world of education, but I remember him as someone who made a difference in the lives of individuals. There will truly be a little less joy in our world. Thank You Dr. Mamary!
Colleen Smith
February 24, 2011
I will save most of our memories for a personal card for the family, but Dr. Mamary was an intergral part of what made being a Johnson City Wildcat in the early 80's so very special and meaningful. Daily, when in town, he could be seen walking the hallways, smiling, cheerful, saying hello and genuinely listening to the concerns of students. What a pleasure it was that we knew this man well and he always had time for us.
With fond remembrance,
Patrick & Colleen (Hall) Smith
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