Obituary of Mary (Patty) Patricia McNamara

Mary Patricia McNamara (Patty), 87, passed away on Tuesday, October 14.2014 at the Elizabeth Brewster House. Patty was born in Cortland on November 4,1926 to John and Margaret (McNally) McNamara. She attended St. Mary's School and graduated from Cortland High School in 1944. Patty worked for the New York Telephone Company until she married Charles Wanish in 1948. Together they had four children. In 1986 Patty moved to Sun City, Arizona and remained there until October of 1995, when she returned to Cortland. Patty loved to travel. Her favorite places included Spain, Alaska and Hawaii. Patty enjoyed golfing, bowling and playing bridge. During her lifetime, Patty was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church, the Catholic Daughters of America, the American Legion 489, the knights of Columbus Auxiliary Purple Ladies of Cortland and the Cortland Country Club. She is survived by three children John (Angela) Wanish of Homer, Charles (Patricia) Wanish of Virginia, and James Wanish of Cortland; grandchildren, Ryan Wanish, Brandon Wanish, Stacey Wanish; sister Theresa Fitzgerald; nieces Bernadette (Mark) Travis, Donna Wanish and Jean Wanish; great nephews and niece Ethan, Rowan and Emily Travis. In addition to her parents, Patty was predeceased by her daughter, Mary Wanish and granddaughter, Lindsey Wanish. Mass will be held at St. Mary's Catholic Church at 10:00 A.M. on Thursday, October 16, 2014 With Father Joseph officiating. Burial will be held at St.Mary's Catholic Cemetery. Following the services, a celebration of Patty's life will be held at the Cortland Country Club. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Mary's Church, St. Jude's Hospital or Hospice of Tompkins-Cortland County.