OBITUARY

Name:   Blanche Irene (Starkweather) Galutia

From:  The Citizen Advertiser, Auburn, New York
Date:  Sunday, June 22, 2003

Mrs. Galutia was born July 1, 1904, in Plainfield, Conn., the daughter of the late Henry S. and Florence Bennett Starkweather.  Blanche was employed by the Seneca Army Depot as an ammunition handler for four years and the Douglas Bookstore in Auburn for 23 years.  She was also employed by Marie Balian Gifts of Auburn for many years.  She was a member of the First United Methodist Church where she taught Sunday School for 15 years and was past president of the Women's Society of Christian Service.  She served as church historian and was active in district and conference work.  She was a member of Rebekah Lodge 244, past president of the Professional Women's Club and a member of the International Deltiologist of America.

She is survived by a daughter, Dorothy E (Stephen) Gdula of Auburn; a grandson, Marshall A. (Carol) Gdula of Landers, Wyo.; a granddaughter, Charis E. Gdula of Utica; four great-grandchildren, Russell and Denise Gdula of Landers, Wyo.; and Ashley and Bryan Mayo of Houston, Texas; many nieces and nephews.  Mrs. Galutia was predeceased by her husband Max J. Galutia in 1968, a granddaughter Allison Mayo in 1999 and three brothers, Morris, Russell and Homer Starkweather.

Blanche has requested that there be no calling hours or services.  Interment will be in Soule Cemetery in Sennett.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the First United Methodist Church, Attn: Kitchen Fund, 99 South St., Auburn, NY 13021, in memory of Blanche.  Brew Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

     "Celebrate my life, it's been a life full of love.
         Be happy for me, As I watch from above.
         I have begun a journey to reunite with my past.
         I'm at Peace in the Heavens, I'm with God at last.
         To my family and friends, Bless your hearts.
         This isn't an end, it's a fresh new start."