Jane E (Gresham) Vitek

Jane Elizabeth (Gresham) Vitek died peacefully after a short illness on Tuesday, December 6, 2016, in Schenectady, New York, just one day after her 93rd birthday. She was born in Schenectady, New York on Wednesday, December 5, 1923, daughter of Edward and Myrtle Gresham. A graduate of Nott Terrace High School, Jane worked in the blueprint department of General Electric and as a model in the Louise Boyka Modeling Agency. She was married to Edward Francis Vitek for 64 years until his death in 2009. She raised three sons, was active in her church, and served as a volunteer at St. Claire’s Hospital for more than thirty years. A devoted friend and surrogate mother to many, she inspired those who knew her to live with an open and forgiving heart, and to keep moving forward. Together with her best friend and sister, Grace Gresham, who died in 2015, the “Gresham Sisters” kept family members and strangers alike laughing heartily and mindful of the joys of family and friends. Jane is survived by her three sons, Gary Edward (Geri), Thomas James (Linda Dugan), William Joseph (Maria); eight grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. She is also survived by a daughter-in-law, Catherine Donato, and several nieces and nephews. Calling hours will be held at DeMarco-Stone Funeral Home, 1605 Helderberg Avenue, Rotterdam,New York on Friday, December 9, from 11:30 to 1 pm. Funeral services will begin at 1 pm at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Evergreen Memorial Park, 2150 Central Avenue, Schenectady. A memorial service celebrating Jane’s life is planned for a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to City Mission of Schenectady, 425 Hamilton St. Schenectady, 12305 or at citymission.com.