Beloved Community Leader Mary Fredenburgh Passes Away at 93

Loon Lake, Franklin County, USA - Mary Margaret Fredenburgh, a beloved figure from Crestview, Florida, and previously from Malone, passed away on March 12, 2025, at the age of 93. She fought a long battle with dementia, a condition that affects millions of Americans. As per Adirondack Daily Enterprise, Mary leaves behind a legacy of community service and a family who cherished her deeply.

Mary’s journey began on January 8, 1932, in Dannemora, where she was born to Karl and Charlotte (Kelsea) Whipple. She lived a full life marked by achievement and resilience. Graduating from Plattsburgh High School, she later married Warren “Ward” Fredenburgh in 1953, building a life together until his passing in 2011. Mary’s entrepreneurial spirit shone through when she opened a gift shop in Saranac Lake, which blossomed into a successful business known as the Yum Yum Tree.

Remembering a Local Leader

In a significant milestone for women in her community, Mary was the first woman elected as town supervisor for the town of Franklin in Franklin County. Her contributions went beyond business; she was an active member of the Ladies of the Lake group and enjoyed countless hours at her camp on Indian Lake after retiring.

Mary’s love for life was evident in her hobbies, including birdwatching, gardening, shopping, decorating, and traveling, but above all, she treasured time spent with family. She is survived by her two daughters, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Her comfort cats, Sonny and Nino, were also integral parts of her life, bringing joy and companionship in her later years.

The Burden of Dementia

Dementia is more than just a personal battle; it is a growing public health crisis. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, more than 7 million Americans currently live with Alzheimer’s disease, a number expected to rise to nearly 13 million by 2050. Mary’s struggle reflects a larger trend; as highlighted in several studies, the impact of dementia extends to families, healthcare systems, and the economy.

The lifetime risk of developing Alzheimer’s at age 45 stands at 1 in 5 for women and 1 in 10 for men. It’s a staggering thought, emphasizing why understanding and addressing these conditions is essential. Caregivers, often family members, bear a heavy load—around 12 million Americans are estimated to provide unpaid care for those living with dementia. The costs of this care are immense, projected to reach $384 billion in 2025 and nearly $1 trillion by 2050, as noted by research from Alzheimer’s Association.

In recent years, Alzheimer’s-related deaths have more than doubled, marking it as the sixth-leading cause of death among those aged 65 and older. As of 2021, it was responsible for over 119,000 deaths, underscoring the urgent need for improved care and support mechanisms, which are currently strained. According to PubMed, the shortage of specialists in dementia care reveals the cracks in our system—more healthcare workers are desperately needed to meet this rising demand.

As Mary Fredenburgh’s family prepares to honor her memory on July 12 with a service officiated by Pastor Howard Cain, they reflect on the profound impact she had on their lives and the community. Her story is a reminder of the resilience of the human spirit, as well as a call to action for those who can lend their support to families battling the challenges of dementia. Mary’s life—full of love, service, and determination—will not be forgotten.

Mary’s journey may have come to an end, but the fight against dementia continues for many. With awareness, education, and compassion, we can help make a difference in the lives of those affected by this unforgiving disease.

Online condolences can be shared at Frary Funeral Home.