Obituary of Marian J. Kiff

Marian Jean Kiff of Bath, NY, passed away on Wednesday, December 14, 2011 at the age of 84. Marian was born in Tower City, PA to Stella Russell Klinger and Howard Klinger. As a small child, her family moved to a farmhouse in Lykens, PA. Her father became a chicken farmer while continuing to work in the coal mines. School was very important to Marian, who attended a one-room schoolhouse for seven years. After Marian graduated from Lykens High School, she went on to earn a nursing degree from Harrisburg Hospital of Nursing in 1947. Following employment at Harrisburg Hospital, Marian headed to New York State where she worked at the Veteran's Administration Hospital. Later she became a private duty and relief nurse at Ira Davenport Memorial Hospital in Bath. In 1970, Marian served as Haverling Central School Nurse, where she worked until her retirement in 1992. Marian was an avid and talented crafter - creating lovely necklaces, wreaths, greeting cards, that she shared with friends and family. She was an excellent seamstress, and made most of her children's clothing as they grew up. Marian loved animals, especially dogs, and always had her trusted friend, Jazzie, at her side. Marian is survived by her children, Susan Smith (husband, Fred) of Orange, CA, Frank Kiff (wife, Diane) of Bath and Tracey Kiff-Judson (husband, Don) of Ellington, CT. She was predeceased by her daughter, Dorothy Palma. Grandchildren are Marisa Friedmann, Ashley Palma, Cambria Smith, Kiana Smith, Derek Kiff, Teagan Kiff, Courtney Kiff, Samantha Judson and Zachary Judson. She was blessed with two great-grandchildren: Sebastian and Alexandra Friedmann. She also is survived by her sister, Dorothy Dietrich (husband, Blair), and two nieces and two nephews. The family has requested a private service and kindly requests that those who wish to remember Marian may consider a memorial donation to the Finger Lakes SPCA at 7315 State Route 54, Bath, NY 14810 or 607-776-3039.