Our dear Maria Gabriella Pongracz was called home on January 18, 2024, at the age of 81, filled with every bit of love her family could give her.
The daughter of the late Albert Pongracz and Elizabeth Pongracz, she was born on January 21, 1942, in Budapest, Hungary. Maria came to America in 1956 at the age of 14 to begin a new life here, but always remained a true Hungarian Girl. She faced every challenge in life with strength, courage and of course, humor.
Maria finished life in Pine Bush, New York, where she was the President of the Pine Bush Seniors for years. This group meant the world to her and provided her so much joy and happiness. She belonged to many other senior groups in the area and loved each one. She was happiest when being her true, social self. We all know, she loved a crowd! A true icon in her town, we know she will miss you all.
Maria was proud of her children, Maria Zanetti, Elizabeth Connelly, Susan Brown, Paul Dudas (predeceased by), Butch Dudas (Barbie), Maggie Barone (Tad), Kathy O'Connell (Tom), and Andrea Graham; Her grandchildren, Anthony Zanetti, Christina Zanetti, Jonnell Connelly-Brundage, Erica Brown-Holzhauer, James Baggatta, Ashley Shimek, Craig Dudas, Nicole Dudas, Sophronia Barone, Sydney Barone, Michael Gledhill, Cassandra Benz, Austin King, Alexandrea Cuebas and Aidan Graham; Her great-grandchildren, Philip Connelly(predeceased by), Emily Brundage, Cameron Holzhauer, Cecelia Holzhauer, Jayden Layer, Azaria Shimek, Mason Dudas, Isla LoPiccolo, Sienna LoPiccolo, Emmett Gledhill (his Big Big), Ian Gledhill and Miles Benz; Her sister Jane Reynolds and her beloved dog, Pumpkin.
At Maria's request, there will be no service. If you would like to honor her memory, please donate to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or Shriners Hospitals for Children in her name. Messages of condolences may be left at martinezfuneralhomes.com.