Elizabeth Kornell

Elizabeth Kornell (Elizabeth Catherine Veronica Cardinale Kornell) – “Betty” age 88 of Tannersville, New York passed away on March 12, 2019 after a brave battle with colon cancer.
She was born in Catskill, New York on August 1, 1930 to Daniel and Frances (Fischer) Cardinale. Betty was always a fighter – one of 12 children, she was seriously burned in a house fire at only 4 months old and was not expected to live. The tragic fire did claim the life of her 6-year-old sister.
Betty attended St. Patrick’s Catholic School and later Catskill High School, graduating in 1947. She worked in Albany until her marriage to Charles (“Bubby”) Kornell in 1961 bringing her to live in Haines Falls. Her life on the mountaintop was one committed to family, community and public service. She was one of the 10 founding members of “The Haines Falls Ladies Auxiliary” started in 1963 to assist firemen when they are called to duty. Following her mother’s lead, her passion turned to politics when she joined, and subsequently chaired, the Town of Hunter Democratic Committee for many years. She also served for a number of years on the Tannersville Area Health Committee.
Aside from her service and dedication to these and other community organizations, her focus was on the family that she adored. She always had a smile, a hug and a kiss to give; a push, empowering all to stand up for the things important to them; and a kind, comforting word when they struggled. There were so many lessons taught & so much LOVE given, she was always there to go the extra mile to help her children and grandchildren to strive and do their best.
Elizabeth is survived by her husband of 57 years Charlie Kornell; children Douglas (Debbie) Kornell, David Kornell and Charlene Holdridge; 8 grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren and 1 great, great grandchild; siblings Joseph (Diane) Cardinale, Mahlon Cardinale, Geraldine Miller and June Holiday; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. She is predeceased by her parents and several siblings.
There will be a memorial service held on Saturday, March 30, 2019, 3:00-7:00pm, at Aston Basagic Funeral Home on Main Street, Hunter. A burial will take place in Catskill at some time later in the year. Donations can be made in her honor to the American Cancer Society (P.O. Box 22478, Oklahoma City, OK 73123) and/or Town of Hunter Ambulance Service (P.O. Box 71, Tannersville NY 12485).