Obituary of Pauline E. Riekofski-Stanford (Drake)

HORNELL: Pauline E. Riekofski-Stanford (Drake), age 94, surrounded by the love and care of her family, went to be with her Lord & Savior Monday afternoon, January 15, 2024 at the Seager/Bates Home in Hornell, following a brief illness. Pauline was born September 28, 1929 in the town of Jasper, to the late Eldred L. and Ethel E. (Jackson) Drake. She was predeceased by her first husband Robert Riekofski in 1992, her second husband Ronald Stanford in 2010, a stepson Larry Riekofski in 2021. Out of five children Pauline survived her four siblings, Don and Dale Drake, Eleanor Friends, and Thelma Hunt. Growing up, the Drake girls were known for their harmonies, poetry, and many dance moves. Often, they had requests for the schottische which was a hit on “Facebook” and during the Jasper Old Home Days’ festivities on the 4th of July in the high school gym. Her brother Dale often visited her, and that was always a special time for her. Pauline was a member of the West Jasper Wesleyan Church and her children’s clothes would be set out and shoes polished the day before and ready for church the next day. She kept lifelong friendships from that time. In later years, she had attended the Buena Vista and New Hope Wesleyan churches. After church, it was a given that someone would drop in for Sunday dinner and any visiting pastors were always welcome. She had a true gift of hospitality. Pauline always enjoyed teaching children in Sunday school, and as a Care Taker in the Children’s Home in Hornell. Her love for the Lord was expressed through her bountiful and unwavering commitment to her family and friends. Her generous and gracious spirit was felt by all who came to know her. Mom, you will be missed, but your prayers, wisdom and hospitality ~ God will honor through eternity. As you would always say, ”We love you a bushel and a peck, and a hug around the neck”. Pauline is survived by 6 children. Dan (Suzanne) Riekofski of San Manuel, AZ, Robert (Amy) Riekofski of Howard, Kay Padden of Canisteo, Calvin Riekofski of Hornell, Denise Robinson of Vinton, VA, and Kevin (Cassie) Riekofski of Canisteo. Her 11 grandchildren who she dearly loved. Eric (Kerry) Riekofski, of Dundee, Stephen (Becky) of New Hampshire, Jason (Crystal) Riekofski, Lyndsay (Josh) Cruce of Arizona, Rhonda (Dan) Smith of Wellsboro, PA, Jolie (Matt) McCarthy of Corning, Ashley (Parish) Taylor of Ohio, Charity (Richard) Wilson of Corning, Christopher Padden of Canisteo, Dereck (Christine) Coffey of Colorado, Cody Riekofski of Hornell, several great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Her family was blessed to have 5 generations that were able to cherish so many memories with her. There will be no calling hours or services at this time. A celebration of life will be at a later date. Memorial contributions in Pauline’s name may be made to St. Jude’s’ Children Research Hospital. Arrangements are with the H.P. Smith & Son, Inc. Funeral Home in Canisteo.