The cherished and loving family of Alice C. Yasek of Harrison is mourning her passing on Sunday, March 21, at the age of 95. Alice was born Alice Crozier, in Manhattan, in 1925, grew up in Harrison, lived briefly on Long Island, and returned to live in Harrison in 1960, where she and her husband Edward P. Yasek, raised five active children and nurtured three extraordinary granddaughters.
An award-winning swimmer in the 1930s, Alice was a trailblazer: she was the first female lifeguard at Playland Beach in Rye, and the first female lifeguard of a public beach in the state of New York. She was a lifelong masters swimmer, competing well into her 80’s.
She was also very active in the All Saints Episcopal church, donating time, organizing skills, and crafts to the thrift shop, Angel Fair fundraisers, and always helping where needed. In addition to her church work, she helped establish the Hospice program at United Hospital, and was a hospice worker for many years. She also was very involved in the Rye association for the Handicapped, a hospital volunteer and a driver for Meals on Wheels. Her compassion, kindness and easy conversational manner with everyone gave comfort and solace to countless clients, friends, and family.
In addition to being a gifted athlete, she was constantly learning. At 18 years old, during WWII, she worked in assembly in an airplane factory, and attended the Academy of Aeronautics to study drafting. She also took classes at Hunter College, and in recent years, was learning new uses for her iPad. A fan of big band music, Las Vegas casinos and a good martini, Alice was entertained in recent years by her long-haired Chihuahua, Chessie, who passed in January. He was a good dog.
Alice is preceded in death by her beloved husband of almost 60 years, Edward, her daughter-in-law Faith Deegan, and her son-in-law Michael Fleice. She is survived by her children E.Paul (Diane), Don (Linda), Elizabeth, Jay and Rob (Donna), and grandchildren Liana Lusson (Matt Cullen), Meredith and Julia Yasek, in addition to several nieces, nephews, and grand-dogs. She was also cared for in recent years by an excellent team of dedicated caregivers.
A private graveside service is planned. In lieu of flowers send memorial donations to either the Rye Association for the Handicapped, Inc., or Meals on Wheels Harrison.
