Obituary of Grace M. Hlavacek

    Grace M. Hlavacek
     Pine Bush, NY

    Grace Marie Hlavacek, a lifelong resident of Pine Bush, entered into eternal rest on January 16th in Zephyrhills, Florida. She was 84 years old, born on December 29, 1938, in Pine Bush. Grace was the youngest daughter of the late Howard E. Mance, Sr., and Lovinia Cruver. She was married for 44 years to Gerard F. Hlavacek.

    Grace graduated from Pine Bush High School; she waitressed at Sunnycroft Ranch and owned The Village Luncheonette in Pine Bush with her sister, Gloria. She managed dining rooms at the Hot Shops along the Thruway for many years. She co-owned the 1776 Colonial Inn for several years after. Grace continued her career working for the Pine Bush School District as a nurse’s aide for 29 years. She was a trustee for Mountain View United Methodist Church for many years.

    She enjoyed spending time with family and friends, especially near the pool. She loved to yard sale with her daughters, sisters, and granddaughter in the summertime. Her winters were spent in Florida with her husband and their many dogs. She was her children’s and grandchildren’s number one fan, and biggest cheerleader throughout all her years.

She made sure to attend any and all activities for them, no matter the distance. She was always known to have her music on while she putzed around the house singing. She was a wonderful cook and loved when company stopped by to enjoy her meals together, and her fierce love for her family was known by all who entered her life.

    She is survived by her loving husband Gerard F. Hlavacek, two daughters, Lori (Lovinia) Ann Middaugh and husband Roy of Slatington, PA, and Jodi Lynn Notarnicola and husband Bart of New Paltz, step-daughter Donna L. Carroll of Middletown, five grandchildren, Darien and Alexis Middaugh, Amber and Rachel Carroll, and Ashley Mercer, and three great-grandchildren. She was predeceased by her brother Howard E. Mance, Jr., sister Gloria A. Wood, and brother Robert T. Mance Sr.

    Grace leaves a large loving family that includes sister Constance Hornbeck, brother Lester Mance and wife Deborah, sister-in-law Suzanne Mance, all of Pine Bush, many nieces and nephews, several great-nieces and nephews, and cousins. Grace was a loving wife, mother, sister, grandmother, aunt, and friend who loved all that came into her life. She will be missed dearly.

    Cremation was private and held at the convenience of the family. There will be no formal services held. Memorial contributions will be appreciated for Mountain View United Methodist Church, PO Box 1577, Pine Bush NY 12566. Obituary respectfully submitted by the William M. Gagan Funeral Home Inc.