Obituary of Shirley J. Horvath

On March 17, 2008 (St. Patrick's Day), Shirley J. Horvath, at the age of 79, left this world surounded by her family to take her place in heaven. Throughout her life, she was exttremely proud of her Irish heritage and St. Patrick's day was her favorite holiday, so it was fitting that after her lenghty illness, she go home to God that day. Shirley was a 1947 graduate of Sacred Heart High School. In her earlier years, she was Secretary/Treasurer of HP Machine Shop. She served on the Sacred Heart Parish Counsel, Sacred Heart PTA's and helped with their fundraisers. Before her eyesight declined, she enjoyed knitting, needlepoint and reading. She was also a great collector of antique glassware, spoons and plates and enjoyed telling their origin and history. Shirley was known to her family as not only a wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, but also as everyone's best friend and confidant. Her love and understanding helped guide her family through life with a feeling of hope, love and security. Her greatest joy throughout her life and her greatest pride and accomplishment was her family. She is survived by her husband of 57 years, J. Stephen Horvath (Steve), daughter Shirley J. Meyer and husband Harold (Hal), son Stephen J. Horvath and wife Susanne, grandsons, Stephen Alexander Horvath, Jason Peck and wife Suzanne and granddaughter, Meganne Smaniotto and husband Christopher. In addition, she is survived by her special little angels, her great-grandchildren, Samantha Michelle Peck, Patrick Joseph Frey, David Gabriel Peck and Julianna Maeve Smaniotto.