Antonie M. Langr Close

Antonie M. Langr Close, 77, of Mayfield, passed away peacefully Saturday, July 19th, at St. Mary's Hospital, Amsterdam, with her family at her side. Antonie was born in Gloversville, November 3, 1936, the daughter of the late Frank and Pauline (Beader) Langr of Northville. She graduated Salutatorian from Northville Central School in 1954. Antonie continued her education at Mt. Holyoke University and the University of Rochester studying in the field of education. She married Harland Frasier Close on June 30th, 1957. He had predeceased Antonie in 2005. Her sister, Paula Langr Van Nostrand predeceased her in 2012. Antonie is survived by her Brother Frank W. (Jean) Langr of Lake Lazurne, Sister Mary Ann (Alain) Blanchet of Clifton Park, Brother-in-laws: Richard O. VanNostrand of Gloversville and Peter G. Close of Mayfield, along with her children; Jon H. (Laurie) Close of Mayfield, William L. Close of Gloversville, Holly (Jerry) Schopp of Fulton. Grandchildren: Gregory and Clarissa Putman; Robert, Matthew, Stephen and Eric Close; Alaina Schopp, and many nieces, nephews and cousins. Her passion for music blossomed early as all of the Langr children took piano lessons and were members of the school band. Tonie succeeded in becoming an accomplished pianist and organist, which stayed with her throughout her life. She started as the organist of the Northville Methodist Church and went on to play for many area churches and ceremonies. Her career as a 1st grade teacher started at the Northville Central School in 1966. In 1972 she transferred to Mayfield Central School, where she taught until retirement in 1995. Her dedication and commitment to the students was her passion. Antonie enjoyed many opportunities to play the piano for her class and school functions including the elementary and high school choirs, high school drama club, and a favorite, County Festival. Her other interests took Antonie traveling to the Czech Republic to visit the old country and connect with family members. She enjoyed genealogy researching and sharing many points of family history. She was a member of the "sentimentalist" choir that traveled throughout the local area. The group was a source of great joy and friendships! Antonie's most known hobby was usually revealed with a "curl in her lip" while fighting back a "cat who ate the canary" smile while she was cooking up a practical joke, for whom few ever escaped due to the perception that "there is no way she would do that!!" The family would like to extend special thanks to the staff of St. Mary's Hospital in Amsterdam, NY, and Mountain Valley Hospice for their wonderful care and kindness with Antonie. Calling hours will be Thursday, July 24, from 4-8 at Walrath & Stewart Funeral Home, 51 Fremont St., Gloversville, NY. Funeral services will be held on July 25 at 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home. In Lieu of flowers, contributions will be graciously accepted on the behalf of Antonie Close to the Mayfield High School Drama Club, at 27 School Street, Mayfield, NY. 12117.