Obituary of Diane Shavkin

Diane Shavkin of Fishkill entered into rest Monday, May 30, 2016 at home, surrounded by her family. She was 72. Daughter of the late Louis and Jeanette Feinbaum Dworkin, she was born on January 15, 1944 in Cold Spring, NY. She married the love of her life, Steven F. Shavkin on March 21, 1965 at Vassar Temple in Poughkeepsie. Mr. Shavkin survives at home in Fishkill. Diane worked as a billing specialist for the Department of Mental Hygiene in Poughkeepsie until her retirement in 2005. Diane's true passion was her confectionary business. She owned and operated "The Magic Touch," where she designed hand-crafted chocolates. She sold her unique creations in local schools and fairs for 22 years. Her goodies were a main staple at the Vassar College, Dutchess Community College and Arlington High School yearly craft fairs and were always one of the most popular attractions. Diane was affectionately known as "The Cake Lady". She was a member of ICES (International Cake Exploration Society) and the original founder of the New York Chapter in the early 1980s. Diane was proud to be a professional cake decorator, teacher, author and judge. She remained very active until she became ill. She not only taught in her home, but traveled around the country sharing her skills. She loved to share her talents and was generous with her knowledge. She was a true inspiration to many aspiring cake decorators and sugar crafters. In addition to her husband, Steve, she is survived by her daughters, Jill Shavkin of Wappingers Falls, and April Shavkin of Tucker, Georgia, her daughter-in-law, Meg Redus and her grandchildren, Adam and Eric Shavkin. Diane was predeceased by her sisters, Joan Keenan, Ann Mundon and her brother, Daniel. Service will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Diane's name to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 22478, Oklahoma City, OK 73123, www.cancer.org. For directions or to send a personal condolence, please visit our website at www.StraubCatalanoHalvey.com.