School & Community News

Barbara S. Mortensen

Sad news for alumni and staff members who had the opportunity to work with beloved English teacher Barbara S. Mortensen of Branport, NY: Barb, who taught at HCS from 1966 to 1995 when she retired, passed away Dec. 22, 2012 in North Port, FL, where she and her husband Karl have been living.

Barb was an inspiration to students and staff, who will remember her gentle manner and how she never let her wheel chair slow her down.or prevent her from living a full and productive life. According to one obituary from the Daily Messenger, Barb contracted "spinal muscular atrophy" as a child, but graduated from Keuka College with honors and awards in 1955. She and husband Karl raised three children and were active in their community.

Barb is survived by her husband, their three children, their spouses, five grandchildren, her sister Alison Fitzgerald, and her brother Richard Sharman. There are plans to hold a memorial service at the Branchport Methodist Church around May 1, 2013.

Memorial contributions may be made to the United Methodist Church in Branchport, Keuka College, or any hospice care center in our area.