Eleanore Lorraine “Ellie” Burzycki – 88 – of 27 East Ave., Arkport, died Tuesday evening (March 5th, 2019) at her home, following a wonderful life.
She was born in Buffalo, NY on February 23, 1931 to Joseph and Clara Ciesielski. Ellie was raised on Sunnyside Ave., a name that seemed to fit her personality! She graduated from Riverside High School in 1949 where she concentrated in secretarial studies.
She was married to the late Longin “Lon” Ludwig Burzycki, the love of her life, in 1956 at St. Florian’s Church in Buffalo. Lon brought her to Hornell shortly after they were married where he was currently living. They were lucky to celebrate 53 wonderful years together.
Ellie and Lon re-located to Arkport in 1958 after purchasing the cable franchise for Arkport Television. Ellie put her secretarial skills to use and kept the books for their business.
She was employed for the past 39 years by the Hornell City School District. Ellie loved her job, her students and fellow employees. They kept her going after Lon passed and it broke her heart to retire in June, 2018. She also served as crossing guard for the Arkport School District for 22 years.
Ellie was passionate about sports. Whether it was hockey, baseball, golf, basketball, soccer or car racing she enjoyed chatting about the games. But her favorite sport was football and her beloved Hornell Red Raiders. She also enjoyed playing cards, gambling and sitting and visiting with friends on her porch at 27 East Avenue. Ellie loved kids and they loved her in return. This was evident when the H.H.S. Class of 2012 dedicated the 78th edition of the Hornell-Maple Leaf Yearbook to her. She was very proud of this award.
Eleanore was a member of the Arkport American Legion/Auxiliary Post #1248, the Hornell American Legion, the AMVETS No. #245, the Hornell Elks Lodge, and the Hornell Association. She enjoyed her weekly visits to these establishments. She was always looked after and cared for by her fellow members.
She was preceded in death by her husband Longin; her brother Richard Ciesielski (the late Elizabeth Ciesielski); and infant son Eugene. She is survived by her daughters Judith Green of Arkport, (and her children Jared and Elanna), and Heidi (Jamie) Rankin of Ormstown, Quebec (and their children Hallie, Kellan and Kendall); her great-grandson Xavier, (son of Jared Green); her best friend of 80 years Evelyn May of Tonawanda; several nieces and nephews.
A Party in her honor was held on her 88th birthday Feb 23rd. It was truly of celebration of her life. She was blessed with an out pouring of cards, wishes, stories, flowers and gifts but most of all the love and laughter of those who attended.
A service will be held at the convenience of the family.
Ellie’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in her name be made to: The Arkport American Legion, 1 Carter Street, Arkport, NY 14807
Funeral arrangements are in care of the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.
I knew Ellie for many years and she was a happy go lucky lady. Knew how to enjoy life and was liked by anyone who knew her. May she Rest in Peace.
Very sad to hear of the news that Ellie has passed. I have So many great memories of Ellie from my childhood. She was always a shinning light, full of fun and laughs. Heidi and Judy, I’m so sorry for your loss. Love to you both and your families. Xo
Ellie was a beautiful lady whose spirit and happy smile will be greatly missed by all who knew her, she was a wonderful lady and so great great with the kids at school, you are missed Ellie. 💕