Marion Mabel VanBuren

Marion Mabel VanBuren, a beloved woman who was the embodiment of resilience and love, passed away on May 14, 2025, at the age of 87. Born on March 26, 1938, in Royalton, NY, Marion was a beacon of warmth and creativity to all who knew her. Her life was a testament to the words of Helen Keller: "Although the world is full of suffering, it is also full of the overcoming of it." Indeed, Marion was an overcomer, facing every challenge with courage and grace.

Marion was a woman of many talents and passions. She loved working with her hands, whether it was tending her garden, quilting, crocheting, or cooking up a storm in her kitchen. Her creativity shone through in each stitch and every dish, and her home was always a place of warmth and hospitality. Marion had a long and varied career that showcased her hardworking nature and adaptability. From working on the family farm with her first husband, Ronald, to serving her community at the Wolcottsville Inn, Fisher Price, and Home Depot, and as a 25 year member of the Wolcotsville Fire Co. Women's Auxillary; Marion was a pillar of the Town of Royalton.

Marion's love for her family was the cornerstone of her life, and she leaves behind a rich legacy. She was the loving mother to Kevin VanBuren, Kyra (Jay) Sheehan, Allan (Lisa) VanBuren, and Brian (Lisa) VanBuren; cherished grandmother to Chelsea, Courtney, Cameron, Jordan, Erica (Jacob Kiff), and Miranda VanBuren. Marion was also the dear sister-in-law to Shirley Walters. She was predeceased by her first husband Ronald Szmak, her second husband Kenneth VanBuren and brother Donald Walters. Friends and relatives may call from 1:00 to 3:00 PM on Thursday, May 29, 2025 at St. Michael’s Lutheran Church, 6377 Wolcottsville Road where a Funeral Service will take place at 3:00 PM. Burial will follow at St. Michael’s Cemetery.

As we remember Marion, we are reminded of her favorite quote by Maya Angelou, "I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." Marion made everyone she encountered feel loved and valued. We encourage all who knew Marion to share their memories and upload photos to her memorial page. May her life continue to inspire us to live with love, resilience, and creativity.

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