Obituary of Elaine Relyea

BERNE — It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Elaine Relyea, completing her journey of life on earth and passing into heaven. Elaine died peacefully on January 18, 2023, with her loving children, Peter Relyea (Jean), Susan Conklin (Charles), and Alison Mesick, by her side. Most commonly called Bushie because of her Ukrainian heritage, she was predeceased by her parents, Harry (Deedie) Kott and Mary (Boobo) Tymchyn Kott. Elaine is survived by her siblings, Harry Kott Jr. (Joyce) and Victoria Martin. Bushie, the devoted family matriarch, was born in New York City on April 6, 1935. Her family moved to their Voorheesville farm in 1939. Elaine attended the local one-room schoolhouse and graduated from Voorheesville High School in 1952. Elaine married Clifford E. Relyea, settled in Voorheesville, raised three children, Peter, Susan, and Alison, and moved to Berne in 1965. Elaine drove school buses for many years at Berne-Knox, being the first permanent woman bus driver. Elaine was active in the community. She loved living in the beautiful and close-knit community of the hill towns. Elaine loved reading, sewing, cooking, and baking. Hosting family and friend gatherings, Elaine entertained most holidays and after basketball games, up to 80 people. Our family has been very blessed to have mom / Bushie in our lives continuing family traditions. Her spirit will live on in her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren: Darby and Morgan Relyea, Carey Raymond (Brent), Grant, Ella, and Calvin; Andrew Conklin (Angela), Molly; Lindsay Kolysko (Dave), Aubrey, and Claire; and Tyler Mesick (Sara), and Joey. Cremation has taken place through the care of Simple Choices, Inc. Please join us for a service and celebration of mom’s life, sharing memories, on April 15, 2023, 11 a.m. in St. Matthew’s Church, 25 Mountainview St, Voorheesville, NY 12186. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Elaine's honor to the American Heart Association, Macular Degeneration research, the Berne Public Library, or by giving books to the Berne Library. Fond Memories and Expressions of Sympathy may be shared with the Relyea Family, online at: SimpleChoicesCremation.com