Obituary of Nina H. Close
Nina Helen Close passed away in the arms of her family on March 26, 2021 in Schenectady, NY. She was 93.
Daughter of the late Michael and Theresa (Hotsko) Dudnik, she was born in 1927 in Union, New Jersey. In 1945, Nina graduated from East Orange High School. That same year she met and married the love of her life, Donald Kinnie Close. Mr. Close preceded her in death, passing on October 20, 2011.
Nina and Don first lived in New Jersey and relocated to Wappingers Falls, NY to raise their family. Nina created a home filled with caring, love and joy for her family and friends. During their life together, Nina and Don also enjoyed the company of several much loved dogs and cats. In 1985, Nina and Don moved to Greenville, SC where they enjoyed the lovely weather and making new friends. In 2016 Nina moved back north to Schenectady, NY to be with family.
Nina’s days were full of doing what she loved the most including: gardening, painting, sewing, photography, volunteering, and playing cards. Nina was affectionately known as the “Queen of Scrabble” among family. She loved the natural world and exploring the outdoors, often with her camera at her side. She even helped build her own greenhouse, and taught her family about plants and flowers throughout the years.
Nina and Don adored each other. Their children are grateful to have had such wonderful parents. Nina deeply loved her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was a wonderful cook and accomplished baker. Nina delighted in making beautiful holiday meals for family and friends. Nina will be remembered for her easy smile, infectious laugh, enthusiasm and empathy.
Survivors include her son, Bruce (Sheila) Close of Clinton Corners, NY; her daughter, Sherrie Close Seeley of Schenectady, NY; grandson, Noel Seeley of Schenectady, NY; and her grandson, Kelly (Kendra) Close, and their children Riley, Devon and Quinn Close, all of Hyde Park, NY.
In addition to her parents and her beloved, Don, she was predeceased by her brother, Walter Dudnik and son-in-law, Vincent Seeley.
Services will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Nina’s memory to the American Humane, www.americanhumane.org.
Arrangements are under the direction of Straub, Catalano & Halvey Funeral Home, 55 E. Main Street, Wappingers Falls, NY 12590. To send a personal condolence, please visit www.StraubCatalanoHalvey.com.
