Shirley Joan Ondriska

Shirley Joan (Hall)Ondriska 1941-2024

We are sad to announce the death of Shirley Joan (Hall) Ondriska after a beautifully lived life. She passed away peacefully on 12/4/2024 at Kingsway nursing and rehab in Schenectady NY after being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.  Shirley was full of love, laughter and resilience. She touched the lives of all who knew her. We will miss her very much.

Shirley was a devoted wife to Thomas J. Ondriska, a loving mother to Julie A. Ondriska-Bogardus and Lori L. Ondriska. She was a loving mother-in-law to her Scottish son-in-law Alan Hogan (Lori). She was a doting grandmother to Laura N. Bogardus and James K. Bogardus Jr.  She was a wonderful sister to Judy Budinas and husband Vincent (Buddy) Budinas.

She loved her brother-in-law William Ondriska and partner Nancy Coon, brother-in-law Edward Ondriska and his wife Sharon Ondriska and her niece Maren Ondriska.

Preceded in death, Shirley’s mother Danilla (Hinkle) Hall and father Herman Hall Jr.

Shirley was born in Gloversville NY and lived in Johnstown NY and Schenectady NY most of her life. She graduated from Johnstown High School in 1959. There she met the love of her life, her high school sweetheart Thomas J. Ondriska. They were married 10/26/1963.

Shirley attended college at Alfred State college and graduated 1961. Then she became a registered lab technician for Ellis hospital. She later worked at NYS Taxation and Finance until her retirement.

Shirley enjoyed spending time with her family, friends and especially her grandchildren.  She loved reading, knitting, fishing, bowling, camping, traveling, boating on the Mohawk River with their boat and her favorite, going to casinos. Some of her favorite places were Glen Lake camp, Wildwood NJ, Pine Lake, Caroga Lake, Atlantic City and Scotland. Shirley loved animals and always had pets. She enjoyed as much ice cream she could get and loved her White Russians. She was always up for an adventure and having fun.

As per Shirley’s request, no funeral or memorial services will be held.

In loving memory of Shirley we invite contributions to https://www.animalprotective.org/give and https://pancan.org/