Marie Callender

Marie was born on Nov. 22, 1957, in Norwich, as the only daughter. Marie was definitely a daddy's girl and was very close to her father growing up. Soon after enrolling at Norwich Tech, Marie discovered she had an interest in the Drum Corp. Throughout high school, Marie's passion for Drum Corp grew and she loved recalling her color guard experiences as a member of the American Legion Fletcher Raiders. Her love for this type of competition and performance would extend well into adulthood, as she could often be found attending Drum Corps competitions. After graduating from Norwich Tech, she was married, and soon after became a proud mother of her first son, Greg. Marie quickly became accustomed to motherhood and she loved it. After a move to Virginia, five years later her son Steve would be born. Marie's family of four would grow exponentially once they moved to Washington State where Julian, Michael, and Jason were added to the family tree. Finally in 1985, after having a house of all boys, Marie would welcome her daughter, Kristine to the family. Marie was elated!

Marie adored her children and enjoyed being a mother. The family's final move was in 1987 when she and her children returned to Norwich. Soon after settling back, Marie decided to pursue a degree in manufacturing engineering at Three Rivers Community College. Kristine still recalls attending class with her mom while she finished her second grade homework. After attaining her associates degree in 1995, she would go on to hold positions at Pfizer, Amgen, and Abbott Pharmaceuticals.

Over the years to follow, Marie's children would all graduate from high school. In 1998, Marie would have the joy of welcoming her first grandchildren into her life, Steve's daughter, Lynelle, and Greg's son, Josiah. And, only a few years later, her third grandchild was born - Julian's son, Jaylen.

Besides being a Drum Corp enthusiast, Marie was known for being a talented seamstress and an amazing cook - no one could touch her lasagna! Most of all, Marie was a beautiful, strong woman who was a loving mother, dedicated daughter, and a giving and sincere friend.

Marie is survived by her five sons, Greg, Steve, Julian, Michael, and Jason Callender; a daughter, Kristine Callender; her brothers, Ernest Price and William Christian III; and her grandchildren, Lynelle, Josiah and Jaylen Callender.

She was predeceased by her brother, David Christian; her father, William M. Christian Jr.; and mother, Virginia D. Christian, all of Norwich.

Calling hours will be held from 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 14, 2012, at Fulton-Theroux Funeral Home, 181 Ocean Ave., New London. Burial will be private.

To sign the online guestbook, visit www.fultontherouxnewlondon.com