Maureen E. Gaeta

Maureen Elizabeth Gaeta (Breward), 74, of Kirkwood, ascended into heaven on December 8th, surrounded by the people she loved most in the world. She was greeted in heaven by her mother, Lillian, father, Tom, and brother, Sonny. Maureen married her high school sweetheart and the love of her life, Bob Gaeta, in 1968. Over the last 54 years, they cultivated a loving circle of family and friends. Maureen’s time on earth may have ended, but her legacy lives on in her daughter Jennifer (Tom Wegmann), her grandchildren Nicky (Leighann) and TJ, and her great-grandson, Jackson. Maureen was also anxiously awaiting the arrival of her great-granddaughter, Charlotte Maureen. 

Her grandchildren were her pride and joy. She was so present in their lives and was at every game. Watching her boys play baseball together was one of the greatest joys in her life. She and Bob could always be found traveling to games in their RV. The love Maureen and her grandchildren shared was unique and treasured. Maureen fiercely loved and protected her family, and she certainly was the boss. She cherished her relationship with her best friend and sister, Suzanne (Tony Sanchez). They shared a love and bond that only sisters can. Her brothers, Tommy (Bonnie) and Jimmy (Kathy), always made her laugh, and she loved to hear them sing. She was heartbroken to lose her brother Sonny too early in life, but they are assuredly together now.

Maureen was loved and adored by all who knew her. She had the uncanny knack for making everyone feel loved and valued. She made the holidays so special; Christmas was her favorite time of year. She loved giving presents and placed much thought and time into gifts.  Maureen was a talented hairdresser who spent over 40 years working with her best friends, Little Moe and Cathy. Maureen loved her job and enjoyed the relationships she created with her ladies. Her ability to help people feel and look beautiful was a gift. 

Fostering meaningful relationships was important to her. She genuinely cared for others. She had numerous nieces and nephews she adored. She developed a special relationship with Lisa Mancini, whom she called her second daughter, and loved spending time with her dearest friend, Debbie Padbury.  Maureen’s life was well lived, and she shined like the brightest light in everyone’s life. She would want her family and friends to smile as they recall the beautiful memories they have of her. She would not want tears to be shed but rather laughter to fill the room.  The family would like to thank Broome Oncology, Debbie Schaffer, and Dr. Harris for their loving and compassionate care. We would also like to thank the nurses at the Wilson Infusion Center. Every one of the nurses treated Maureen like family. 

In lieu of flowers, we ask that you donate blood or platelets to the American Red Cross. The generosity of others' donations was life-sustaining for Maureen. If you are unable to give blood, please consider donating to Mercy House in her name.  Calling hours will be held at St. Mary's Church in Kirkwood, NY, from 9am to 11am on Friday, December 16th. A Memorial Mass will follow at 11am. Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery.  Arrangements are in the care of Albert J. DeMarco with the THOMAS J. SHEA FUNERAL HOME INC.

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