Adriana Groenestyn

Adriana Groenestyn July 2, 1935 - June 30, 2017 Middletown, NY On June 30, 2017, Adriana Groenestyn passed away in her home, surrounded by the ones she loved and those that loved her the most, her children. If there were any words to describe Adriana, they would be strong and compassionate at the same time. Her childhood in the Netherlands, during WWII, taught her to never take anything for granted and to stand up for what is right. She expected no less from others, both friends and family. In her early years, she learned several languages and was active in the theater. On June 30, 1957 she married the late John Groenestyn. They were reunited in heaven on their 60th wedding anniversary. Her first born, John Jr., entered the world in Holland in 1959. The young family then moved to America, where Adriana's strength was proven from the beginning. She embraced her new life, although she was a new mother, in a foreign country, far removed from family support. The couple went on to have two more children, Karen in 1961 and Judy in 1963, while residing in Pennsylvania. They moved to New York State in 1964, where they stayed for most of their remaining years. Adriana spent the early years raising her family and volunteering for the church and the Warwick Humane Society. She then worked with the elderly at Orange Farms Nursing Home and for many years at Middletown Veterinary Hospital with the late Dr. Donald Hughes. At the age of 46 years, Adriana changed career paths, by attending Orange County Community College and earning a degree in nursing in 1983. She spent the next 25 years tending to the physical and emotional needs of people, mostly as a nurse at Orange County Jail. Her strength and character were proven time and again, by accomplishing her nursing degree at that time of her life in a correctional environment and gaining the respect of officers and inmates alike. After she retired, at 72 years young, she and John did not slow down. They were involved in delivering Meals on Wheels together and attending Faith Reformed Church in Slate Hill, NY for many years. She also volunteered for Thrall Library used book store, where her passion for reading was satisfied, She was an avid reader who considered her book collection to be some of her most important possessions. Adriana leaves behind one sister, Caroline Cooperman in Florida, Her son John and his wife Terri of Franklin, Virginia, daughter Karen and her husband Randy of Slate Hill, NY and other daughter Judy and her husband Dennis of Sprague, Washington. There are many that call her "Oma" The eight grandchildren and nine great grandchildren will miss her spunk and wisdom, but will never forget her. According to her wishes, there will be a memorial service at The Faith Reformed Church, Slate Hill, NY on July 8, 2017 at noon followed by some refreshments and fellowship at the church. In lieu of flowers, please send contributions to Faith Reformed Church or the Hospice Foundation.