Obituary of Maureen E. Recke

Maureen E. Recke of Kingston, 63, died peacefully at home on April 16th. She spent her last days surrounded by family, friends and nature. A mother and lover of the ocean, Maureen was deeply devoted to her family, her friends, and the good earth she lived on and so respected. Maureen was a talented artist proficient in ceramics, textiles, and painting. Her passion for and dedication to early childhood education reflected a deep devotion to the idea that creativity and play is the foundation of a happy and spiritually fulfilled childhood. In 2001, Maureen was a founder of Woodside School and Community Resource Center in Plymouth. Maureen served as Woodside’s co-director and a teacher; she was a steadfast source of wisdom and support for students, parents, children, and educators. Over the years, hundreds of young children were greeted with a warm calm wave from Ms. Recke as she welcomed them into her classroom. She instilled and reinforced an appreciation for nature, as well as fostering the development of a creative and independent spirit in every child. The younger generation of educators, for whom she was and will remain a role model, are indebted to her kindness and guidance. Many will carry on her legacy: her beloved sons, Seth Mulliken of Raleigh, NC, Adam Mulliken and his wife Sharleen of Providence, RI, Maureen’s siblings and in-laws Katherine and Robert Garrett of Scituate, John and Doreen Recke of Kingston, Judith Recke of Chicopee, and the sister with whom she shared so much, including a home for the last 10 years, Susan Newton of Kingston, and Susan’s two daughters, Laura and Elizabeth. She was also a loving aunt to five other nieces and nephews and their families, as well as the beloved daughter of the late George and Catherine Recke. Visiting hours will be held at Shepherd Funeral Home, 216 Main St. (Rt. 106) in Kingston on Saturday, April 20th from 2-6:00 PM. A memorial service will follow at a later date. Donations may be made by check to Woodside School at 34 Southers Marsh Lane, Plymouth, MA, 02360. http://www.woodsidescrc.org/