Maxine UPDYKE, 83, of Genesee, PA It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing Maxine “Max” Updyke, 83, of Genesee, PA, on Monday, March 9, 2026 with family and friends at her side.
Our beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother was a woman whose life was defined by love, devotion and an unwavering commitment to her family.
Born June 14, 1942, in Ulysses, she was the daughter of Kenneth “Pete” and Sarah F. Hilfiger Empson. She found great joy in the simple pleasures of life. She loved the outdoors, embraced every opportunity to travel and explore new places with her beloved husband of 65 years, William “Bill” Updyke. Maxine was a graduate of Northern Potter High School and went on to work outside the home as a baker and cake decorator for many years, often getting up in the wee hours of the morning to start her day. Above all, her greatest joy was time spent with her husband, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and many good friends. She was the heart of the family—offering warmth, wisdom, and unconditional love that touched everyone fortunate enough to know her. Her presence will be deeply missed, but the memories she created and the love she shared will remain with her family forever.
Surviving besides her husband, Bill, are: four children, Lori Updyke of Geneseo, NY, Michelle Burdick of Coudersport, Tim (Arlene) Updyke of Canandaigua, NY, and Ronda (George) Renieris of Genesee; four grandchildren, Michael (Jody) Vannatter of North Bingham, Kaylyn (James) Johnson of Genesee, Derek (Bre) Burdick of Coudersport, and Nicole (Anthony) Fanelli of Bridgeville; two great-grandchildren, Ace Robert Burdick and Atlas Maxine Burdick; a brother, Joe Empson of Ulysses; two sisters, Ann Hemphill of Minot, ND and Marie (Dave) Cline of Wellsville, NY; nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by two sisters, Jane A. Empson and Edna M. Perkins; and two brothers, John Hilfiger and Phillip K. Empson. The family will remember Maxine privately. Memorials may be made to Genesee Township Vol. Fire Dept., P.O. Box 9, Genesee, PA 16923.
Arrangements are under the direction of Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Crematory, Ulysses, PA. Online condolences may be expressed at www.olneyfuneralhome.com.
