LAURENDEAU, Maria, 54, July 29, 2016, Visitation hours were from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. on Sun., Aug. 7 at the Applebee McPhillips Funeral Home in Middletown, NY.
Maria Laurendeau of Campbell Hall, NY, passed away on July 29, 2016 at the age of 54.
Maria was born on July 21, 1962 in Springfield MA. At an early age, she, with her family, moved to Seattle, WA and lived there from 1967 to 1970. In 1970, the family relocated to Poughkeepsie, NY, where Maria attended Arlington schools. At the age of 9, Maria took riding lessons at Joe Bellino’s farm. This event began her life-long commitment to the care and comfort of horses. During her High School days, Maria was active in 4-H Horse Clubs and was the New York State Horse Bowl Champion. The 4-H program loaned a horse to Maria which she cared for and took to competitions. In 1980, Maria graduated from Arlington High School.
Maria attended Cornell University and graduated in 1984 with a Bachelor’s of Science degree. From August 1984 to June 1985, she attended Westmoreland Davis Equestrian Institute in Loudon County, VA. While there, she wrote a procedure manual on the correct running of a stable in addition to improving her riding technique.
For the next three years, Maria worked as a stable manager in Mass., while attending classes at Harvard University night school to prepare for acceptance to the Tufts University Veterinary Program.
Maria completed her medical courses at Tufts University and received a Doctorate of Veterinary Science in 1992. After graduation, Maria worked as an equine veterinarian for Dr. Linda Mittel and subsequently for Dr. Brian McNamara before starting her own practice. Over the years, she delivered many foals, and cared for the ailments of many horses whether night or day. Maria was always extremely thankful for the comradery, comfort and commitment of her clients in her practice over the years. She made and kept more friends than a person can count and loved every one of them.
On March 4, 1995, Maria married the love of her life, Robert A. Breckel. They were a perfect match, complimenting each other in their lives. Maria is survived by her husband, Robert A. Breckel; her parents, Regis and Donna Laurendeau; her sister, Meg Laurendeau and husband, Joe Havrilla; and numerous friends.
Memorial visitation hours were from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. on Sunday, august 7, 2016 at the Applebee McPhillips Funeral Home, 130 Highland Avenue, Middletown, NY 10940.
