Josephine H. Stine

Josephine H. Stine, a beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on August 14, 2026, after a long illness. Born on September 20, 1929, in Bigelow, Arkansas, Josephine's journey through life was marked by resilience, love, and a profound curiosity for the world around her. Daughter of the late Andrej (Andrew) Ihnacak and Mary Anna Kristofik, Josephine grew up in a time that shaped her into a resourceful and ingenious woman. She attended the one-room Lemon School in Weedsport, New York, before moving to a new elementary school in the village, ultimately graduating from Weedsport High School. Her early experiences instilled in her a remarkable ability to make the most of what she had, a trait that she carried throughout her life. In 1950, Josephine married Earl A. Stine in Weedsport, New York, beginning a new chapter filled with love and dedication to her family. Together, they raised their children, instilling in them the values of hard work and integrity. After Earl's passing, Josephine found companionship and joy in a 20-year relationship with Martin Dobrowsk of Skaneateles, New York. Josephine was a woman of many talents and passions. Her career began as a soda jerk at a local pharmacy, followed by work as a seamstress and shoemaker in Auburn's factories, and later at GE. Her industrious nature was matched by her artistic flair; she was an avid collector of stamps, coins, and Occupied Japan figurines, and she possessed a keen talent for crochet, quilting, and painting. A devoted member of the community, Josephine was actively involved in St. Francis of Assisi Church in Auburn, as well as other churches in the area. Her faith was a guiding force in her life, providing her with strength and purpose. Josephine's love for travel took her to the vibrant landscapes of Hawaii, Alaska, and Mexico with her cherished companion, Marty. Her curiosity extended to the natural world, where she could effortlessly identify plants and birds, a skill honed from her childhood days spent exploring the woods. Her family fondly remembers her uncanny ability to find four-leaf clovers and her budding interest in science, particularly in identifying different types of snails. Josephine is predeceased by her husband, Earl A. Stine, and her sons, Mark A. Stine and John A. Stine. She leaves behind her daughters, Rena (Stine) and Richard Rouse, JoAnn (Stine) and John Puchir, Mary Ann (Stine) and Perry Saville, Christine (Stine) Connors, as well as several grandchildren and great-grandchildren who will forever cherish her memory and the warmth she brought into their lives. The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the Fingerlakes Center for Living for the exceptional care and compassion Josephine received during her final months. In keeping with her wishes, a private funeral ceremony will be held to honor her life. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Josephine's memory may be made to a charity of choice, reflecting her lifelong spirit of generosity and kindness.