COOPERSTOWN – Noreen Newell, a native of Cooperstown, passed away peacefully early Tuesday morning, February 10, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, strength, and warmth that will live on in all who knew her.
Born October 22, 1930, at the Mary Imogene Bassett Hospital in Cooperstown, Noreen was one of seven children of Charles A. Newell, Sr. and Mary Gavin Newell. She graduated from Cooperstown High School in 1948.
After high school, Noreen was educated as a Laboratory
Technician at the Mary Imogene Bassett Hospital and was employed at the
hospital for many years until moving to Johnstown where she continued her
career as a Lab Technician. Later in
life, she endeavored in various careers including owning a successful ladies
clothing and gift shop, property management, working in several golf club pro
shops, including Leatherstocking Golf Course, and most recently at The Farmers’
Museum and the Fenimore House in the gift shop and admissions until she was
91.
Noreen loved to play golf, or any sport, for that
matter. She had a natural athletic
ability and could master any sport she attempted. Whether she spent time outdoors or gathered
with family and friends, she brought light and laughter wherever she went. Her smile and twinkling blue eyes truly could
light up a room. However, Noreen’s
greatest love and joy were her four grandchildren, Peter Heslip (Amy) of Lewes,
UK, Philip Heslip (Deirdra) of Catonsville, MD, Molly Heslip of Williamstown,
MA, and Sarah Heslip (Tyler) of Kingston, NY.
Noreen is survived by her daughter Sharon Cowles
Kroker and husband, Anthony, of Fly Creek; a son-in-law, Michael Heslip of
Williamstown, MA; 10 great grandchildren; and many cherished nieces and
nephews. She is also survived by her
beloved dog, Willie, and her dearest childhood friend, Miles Santimore.
In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by a
daughter, Colleen Cowles Heslip (1992); three sisters, Marjorie N. Strait
(2016), Mary Imogene “Imy” Carter, RN (2019); Marion “Billie” Williams (2021);
and three brothers, Charles A. Newell, Jr. (1999), Donald Newell (1974) and
Roger Gavin Newell (2008).
In accordance with Noreen’s wishes, there will be no
services. She adored the beach and
gazing out over the ocean and requested that her cremated remains be scattered
in the Atlantic Ocean.
Donations in her memory may be made to the Susquehanna
SPCA 5082-5088 State Highway 28, Cooperstown, NY 13326.
Arrangements are under the care and guidance of the Connell, Dow & Deysenroth Funeral Home in Cooperstown.
