Mary Tortorello Kane

Mary Ann Tortorello Kane born November 24, 1937 to John and Carmella Tortorello, passed away May 19, 2013 after a brief illness. Mary attended North High School and Beaux Art Beauty School where she learned the art of hairdressing. Her most recent position was with the Syracuse City School District as a lunch aide at Dr. Weeks School. Mary volunteered extensively in her children’s school and at her church, St. John the Baptist. She was President of the Mother’s Club, taught Religious Education, worked at the parish pantry, instituted the Parish Festival and coached cheerleading and track. Her generosity extended beyond her church and school, she supported Catholic Charities Holiday Sharing program by sponsoring a family every Christmas and she sponsored a child overseas as well. You could always find Mary at her children’s (and then her grandchildren’s) sporting events, dance recitals and talent shows. She was our biggest cheerleader. She was proud of her Italian heritage and if you walked into her house she would insist you eat and drink; her cooking will be missed. She made the best meatballs and her Italian cookies were unmatched.

Mary is survived by her husband of 52 years, Richard “Dick” Kane; her children, Kelly (Mike) Needham, Kathleen (Gary Kelder), Mickey (Mike) Lannon, and Rich (Susan) as well as her ten adoring grandchildren, Michael, Kelliann, Andrea and Matthew Needham; Nathaniel Kelder; Michael, Katie and Grace Lannon; Richie and John Kane. She is also survived by several nieces, nephews, cousins, and special friends.

Her husband, children, and grandchildren are heartbroken but thank God for the time we had with her. We will miss her every day for the rest of our lives but know we have an angel watching over us in heaven.

Funeral services will be conducted Thursday 9:30 a.m. at FARONE & SON FUNERAL HOME and 10 a.m. at St. John the Baptist Church where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated. Burial will follow in Assumption Cemetery. Calling hours will be held on Wednesday from 4-7 p.m. at the funeral home, 1500 Park Street, Syracuse.

Condolences may be offered at www.faroneandson.com.