In Memoriam
Below is the death notice of Patricia "Patti" Hovanetz, Wife of William Hovanetz, Class of 1967. Please keep the Hovanetz family on your prayers.
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Patricia “Patti” Ann Hovanetz (née Nason) on November 29, 2024. Born on March 17, 1950, to Stanley and Irene (née Zachary) Nason, Patti was raised by her father, Stanley, and his wife, Mary, who lovingly served as her mom. A strong-willed and resourceful woman, Patti valued family, tradition, and the simple joys of life.
Patti worked as a Registered Nurse early in her professional life, a role that exemplified her compassion and dedication to helping others. She later found her true calling in motherhood, and devoted herself wholeheartedly to raising her children and creating a loving home.
Patti and Bill Hovanetz were married for over five decades and would have celebrated their 55th anniversary on December 6, 2024; together, they built a life centered on family and shared experiences. Patti was the proud mother of her children and the daughters and son added to her family: Christopher (married to Rae-Anne), Spencer (married to Andrea), Elliott (married to Lori, his late wife), and Alyson (married to Ryan). She is also lovingly remembered as the mother of her late children Nicholas, Derek, and Trevor. Her legacy continues through her grandchildren: Drew (married to Erika), Anna, Lauren, Zac, Audrey, Patrick, and Alexandra, and her great-grandchild, Casey. She is also survived by her siblings: Richard (married to Heidi), Mary Kay (married to David), and Jeffrey. Patti was preceded in death by her parents, Stanley and Mary Nason, and her siblings, Susan and Ted (married to Deborah).
Patti was a voracious reader, a part-time writer, and a constant learner. A self-taught dabbler in the piano, she practiced yoga for decades and in later years became proficient in origami – skilled to the point that she made a habit of gifting various figurines and shapes to relatives on special occasions. Patti was passionate about preserving family memories; she documented milestones through photos and videos, created scrapbooks, and safeguarded keepsakes that her family will always treasure. One of her favorite traditions was gifting her children and grandchildren annual Christmas ornaments, ensuring each carried a lasting legacy of her love and thoughtfulness. She cherished sunny days at the beach, tending to her garden, and spending time with her family.
Patti's spiritual conviction was foundational to her journey in life. Raised Catholic, she later embraced a non-denominational Christian faith that she carried in her heart and expressed in her character. Her family finds comfort in knowing she is at peace in heaven, reunited with her loved ones who preceded her.
Patti will be remembered for her devotion to family traditions, her resilience, her quick wit, and the special ways she created lasting memories for her loved ones. Her presence will be deeply missed but lovingly carried forward in the lives she touched.
A memorial service and celebration of life will be held in Patti’s honor, Spring 2025; date and location to be determined.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made in her memory to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
Posted on: December 10, 2024
You can view a list of all St. Ed's Alumni who have passed away on our website.
Make a Gift in Honor of Patricia Ann Hovanetz
St. Edward High School is humbled by the generosity expressed by our community. Commemorative gifts enable us to empower our students with the knowledge, skills, and Holy Cross values to grow into Christ-like servant leaders. To make a memorial gift, click below.
