HADLEY -- With her loving children at her side, on September 17, 2017, Marilee A. Litwa, 71, of Hadley returned to her Heavenly Father after a courageous battle with cancer.

Born on October 9, 1945 in Amsterdam, New York, she was the daughter of the late Harold and Neata Watermann.

Marilee was a graduate of the Amsterdam School District, and continued her education at SUNY Oneonta, where she graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education. She taught first grade for many years in the Amsterdam and Hadley-Luzerne school districts.

On September 26, 1970, Marilee married her soulmate, the late Edward J. Litwa Sr. at St. Mary's Episcopal Church in Lake Luzerne.

For many years Marilee worked at the Totem Inn and Rustic Inn before finding her true passion, painting. Perhaps you have one of her amazing canvases or prints, or have visited her beautiful studio built by her husband, Ed.

Marilee was a devoted member the Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd in Glens Falls. As a member of the Ladies Society and Church Council, her fellow church members were her second family.

Left to cherish her memory and faith in God are her son, Edward Litwa, Jr. (Rebekka); daughter, Jennifer Holden (Joel); grandson, Xander Holden; granddaughter, Rylee Holden; brother, William  Watermann (Roberta); nephew, Matthew Watermann his daughters, Emma and Aimee; niece, Rebecca Lyons (Shawn); and the Holmes family.

Calling hours will take place Thursday, September 21, from 10 to 11 a.m. at Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd, 543 Glen St., Glens Falls, NY 12801.

A funeral service will follow at 11 a.m. at the church with the Rev. Paul Wagner officiating.

Interment will be private to the family.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd, 543 Glen St., Glens Falls, NY 12801, or Edward J. Litwa Scholarship for Kindness at Lake George School (checks payable to Lake George Scholarship Association), 381 Canada St., Lake George, NY 12845.

Condolences may be sent directly to Baker Funeral Home, 11 Lafayette St., Queensbury, NY 12804, or through www.bakerfuneralhome.com.