Lennea Margaret VanDine

It is with immense sadness we announce the passing of our beloved daughter, sister, and friend, Lennea Margaret VanDine, on February 21st, 2021. She passed peacefully at her residence in Johnson City, NY with her devoted and beloved brother, Rob, by her side, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Lennea is survived by her father, Robert W. VanDine, stepmother, Janet Ingalls VanDine, and siblings, Robert L. VanDine, Dorothy J. VanDine, and Ellen I. VanDine.  Her mother, Heather Clark predeceased her.

Lennea was born April 11, 1981, in Danville PA. Growing up on a beautiful homestead in central, PA, she was an avid fan of nature, a Girl Scout and loved swimming and waterskiing at her grandparents cottage at Oquaga Lake. Lennea graduated from Hughesville High School where she played the flute in the marching band and excelled at basketball and track & field. She earned an Associate Degree in Social Services from Broome County Community College and was working toward her bachelor’s degree from Binghamton University.

In her most formative years, Lennea spent summers as a camper and, later, counselor at Camp Susquehannock for Girls. There she embodied the heart of camp and was aptly chosen as the recipient of the Susquehannock “Spirit Award” by her peers.  Her radiant spirit was reflected in her deep contagious laugh, unconditional love, lasting friendship, open-hearted embrace, and exceedingly generous soul.

Lennea nurtured her passion for social services through her work at Catholic Charities of Broome County, NY helping those with developmental disabilities.  In support of those in her care, she was a force to be reckoned with, always loving, giving, and relentlessly advocating.  Lennea had the undeniable gift of helping everyone she worked with see the best in themselves: their beauty, their potential, and most importantly, their worth in this world.

It is impossible to have known Lennea and not to have loved her deeply.  She will be remembered in a belly-laugh that hurts so much we cry and in a cry that deepens until we laugh.  We will remember her when we dance with abandon, walk barefoot in the woods, or look out at the open water and feel the breeze tickle our skin.  We will remember her when we stand-up and support those we love, and when we trust that we are enough. 

Due to Covid-19, there are no viewings or memorials scheduled at this time.  In lieu of flowers, a memorial in Lennea’s name is being planned with details to follow. Condolences can be posted at hefuneralhome.com.

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