Marilyn Ruth (Martino) Kankolenski

Marilyn Ruth (Martino) Kankolenski, 77, passed from this life to her eternal home with Jesus on December 20, 2019.  Born on September 15, 1942 in Niagara Falls, NY, she was the daughter of the late Sylvestro T. “Sam” Martino and the late Grace Marion (Kenesky) Martino.

Marilyn graduated from Genesee Hospital School of Nursing and went on, for 43 years, working as an Emergency Room Registered Nurse, primarily for Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center.  Marilyn enjoyed life, but her passion was her deep faith and love for other people, especially her family.  Marilyn was a communicant of Holy Family Parish, where she worshiped at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church.  Marilyn enjoyed gardening, traveling, decorating, bowling (her parents founded the Bowl-O-Drome), attending local events and festivals and experiencing different cultures, architecture and arts. She especially looked forward to planning and hosting family dinners.  Marilyn also was passionate about cooking, baking and sewing.

Marilyn is survived by her beloved husband, Paul F. Kankolenski, whom she married on August 31, 1963; loving children, Dana Ann Kankolenski, Kristen (Kankolenski) Mayrose, Paul C. (Jenna) Kankolenski and Michael J. (Lisa) Kankolenski; cherished grandchildren, Nicholas J. Mayrose, Christopher M. Mayrose, Kaitlyn G. Mayrose, Christian F. Kankolenski, Vincent M. Kankolenski, Abigayle G. Kankolenski and Isabella M. Kankolenski; siblings, Linda F. (late Kirk) VanScoten, Karen M. (Concetto) Mazza and James H. (Kelly Ricotta) Martino and several nieces, nephews, cousins and a large network of dear friends.  

Visitation will be on Friday, from 4-8 p.m. in the Chapel of OTTO REDANZ FUNERAL HOME, 2215 Military Road, Niagara Falls, NY.  Marilyn’s Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, December 28th at 10:00 a.m. at Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph Parish at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church, 27th Street and Independence Avenue, Niagara Falls, NY, with Rev. Duane Klizek serving as celebrant.  Everyone assemble at the church.  Prayers of committal and entombment will follow in St. Joseph Cemetery, Niagara Falls, NY.  Marilyn loved flowers and will be graciously accepted.  However, if desired, memorial offerings may be made to a charity of one’s choice.  Arrangements are under the direction of Michael R. Goodlander.  To share condolences, order flowers or to view her tribute video, visit GOODLANDERCARES.COM.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Marilyn Ruth (Martino) Kankolenski, please visit our floral store.