Elaine R. Hostovich journeyed into eternal life on the same day she entered it, only 70 years later, 5/19/2017, her birthday. Happily brought to this world by loving parents, George and Rita (Berkins) Kucan on May 19, 1947. Much loved wife by the love of Elaine’s life, the late Michael Hostovich (Sept. 2015). He being the reason for her favorite quotes taken from the movie “The Notebook” which she felt also epitomized her life:
“There are no monuments dedicated to me and my name will soon be forgotten. But in one respect I’ve succeeded as gloriously as anyone who ever lived. I’ve loved another with all my heart and soul and for me that has always been enough.”
She was the caring mother of her son, Brandon with a bond between them that lasted a lifetime. She held in her heart for him the purest type of love, unconditional and true. Then there were those who she cherished from all over whom she didn’t get to see often, because she and Michael had moved quite often during their marriage. But those friendships established long ago were so strong that no matter when they talked or got together, it always felt like yesterday. Elaine was always quick to support her friends whenever needed and they were always there for her. She felt so blessed. She loved to cook, bake and most of all feed people. In the earlier days their home was always open as they came to expect friends/associates or family would happen to drop by coincidentally, almost nightly just around dinner time. They just knew there would be more than enough food made that they could “break bread” with the Hostovich’s. It was always good times and they felt enriched by those who joined them.
She loved having a house full of people of different backgrounds come together for holiday get-togethers. She and her husband had homes in five different areas where she was quick to make friends.
While it is difficult, she made it clear that she did not want a funeral service. She wanted to share this anonymous writing that expressed her feelings about death: “When I come to the end of the road and the sun has set for me, I want no light in a gloom filled room. Why cry for a soul set free? Miss me a little, but not too long and not with your head bowed low. Remember the loved that we once shared. Miss me but let me go. For this is a journey we all must take and each must go alone. It’s all a part of the Master’s plan, a step on the road to home. When you are lonely and sick of heart go to the friends you know and bury your sorrows in doing good deeds. Miss me but let me go.”
We all know there is a certain amount of pain in being human, but we also know that in life as in death, we belong to God. It was God who was there to raise Elaine’s soul and the angels took her home.
Elaine will now be reunited with her parents, her beloved husband, his parents, Mike and Irene Hostovich, Brother and Sister-in-law Ronald and Dolly Hostovich, Brother-in-law Gary Stegenga and many very dear friends.
In addition to her son, she leaves behind her loving nephews Ronald Hostovich (Shannon) of Charleroi, PA, their sons Dane and Zachary, Dean Hostovich (Kathy Retrosi), of Peters Township, Gary Stegenga (Karen), of Eighty Four, PA, their sons Garrett and Logan, also Sister-in-law Georgianne Stegenga.
If you would like to join us in a luncheon to be held to celebrate Elaine’s life in making one last memory, please call Brandon @ (814) 723-0833. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Donald E. Lewis Funeral Home, Inc., 304 East Street, Warren, PA. Email condolences may be sent by visiting www.lewisfuneralhomeinc.com
Brandon, I never met your mother but the words she wrote about my son Brooks touched my heart. She sounded like a wonderful person. I know what you’re going through, you and your family are in my prayers. You’re welcome to stop by and talk anytime, it would help both of us. Mark
Dear Brandon,
I, like Mark, had never met your Mom. I had planned on calling her to thank her with all my heart for the beautiful, touching letter she wrote to my son, Brooks, after he passed away. I still read it often as it comforts me. I too lost my Mother to cancer. I was 25 when her seven year battle ended, and lost my Dad two years later. There are no words to tell you how sorry I am. Believe in the power of prayer! Talk to our Lord each day.
I am always here for you, you need no invitation. Please let me help you in anyway I can. Know that your Mom is in paradise with your Dad and they are healthy and are feeling profound peace and love.
God Bless You!
With Love,
Cindy
Dear Brandon,
My brother, where do I begin. From the day we met, we shared virtually every aspect of our early beginnings. Your parents took me in as their own and we were all brothers 🙂 It is with heavy heart that I sit and write this, even days after learning of her passing. Elaine was a beautiful person, both inside and out! I always enjoyed your parent’s company; The both of them were so sharp, interesting, and witty. Your parents raised a smart, funny, and ambitious boy that has grown into the kindhearted person you are today. I know they are so proud of you.
Everything in this world happens for a reason. Circumstances that brought us back into each other’s life is no tragic mistake. I love you and you never have to feel alone in this world. I am here if you need me always.
RIP Elaine and Michael
I know you will continue to honor your parents in your daily life by choosing to be exactly who they raised their only son to be, YOU.
Love You Brother,
Aaron