Amelia A. “Bobbie” Draper, 94, of North Syracuse, NY passed on to an everlasting peace on September 3, 2017.

Born on October 22, 1922 in Watertown NY, Bobbie was the daughter of Rocco Genoa and Anna Gruntorad Genoa-Hall. She earned a nursing degree on September 9, 1944 from the Edward J. Meyer Memorial School of Nursing in Buffalo NY, and enlisted in the U. S. Army. While stationed in Utica NY, she met Army Captain Robert Draper. They were married May 28, 1949.

After their active military careers ended, they eventually settled in Syracuse, NY when Robert took a position with the Wurlitzer company. Bobbie held positions in the nursery and premie-nursery departments at St. Joseph’s Hospital. After a lengthy employment with St. Joseph’s, she began a second career as a nurse for Dr. Joseph Thornton. After this second career, she volunteered at and eventually worked at Francis House in Syracuse. She continued to work at Francis House and in private duty positions well into her 80’s.

Bobbie had many life interests including playing golf and entertaining her many friends. She was a gourmet cook who took great pride in trying new cuisines and sharing these with her family and friends. She also was a gifted knitter who bestowed beautiful afghans on those close to her.

Bobbie was pre-deceased by her husband, Robert. She is survived by her daughter, Pamela ( John Waldbillig) Budnikas of Marcellus; her son, David (Peachie) of Liverpool and her son, Gregg (Bellann) of Mattydale and her dear friend, Rose Downey of North Syracuse. She was also a grandmother to eight and a great grandmother to six.

Calling hours will be held Friday, September 8, 2017 from 10AM to 12PM at New Comer Funeral Home in North Syracuse, with a memorial service to follow at 12PM. Burial will be private for the family.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Francis House.

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