Elaine Brzana

Brzana (Hamaty) - Elaine, 79, sadly passed away on August 1, 2016, after a long courageous battle with cancer that spanned from 2002 until the good Lord said enough suffering my dear child, time to come home where you will be free of all earthly pain. Elaine was her family’s everything. She taught her children to be compassionate, kind and forever united as a family. Elaine strived to lead life with dignity, grace, love for mankind and special care to those less fortunate. Elaine’s kindness was an example for all who knew her. Elaine loved the joys of life whether it be playing her piano, volunteering for Windber Hospice, opening up her heart as a foster parent for 40 years or rescuing an animal in need from Habitat For Hounds. Life for Elaine was about helping and loving another. In Elaine’s sickest moments, she was still thinking of others, smiling through her hardships, never losing hope. Elaine was a 1955 graduate of Johnstown High School where she continued to remain close with her classmates. There is nothing like true friends for 61 years. Elaine graduated from Cambria Rowe Business College and Hammond Beauty School. Employed by Department of Forest and Waters, then DCNR until she retired from Laurel Hill State Park in 2008. Preceded in death by parents, Fred and Mary (Sahlaney) Hamaty. Survived by Joseph, her adoring spouse of 58 years who will love Elaine through eternity. Devoted brother, Dr. Ronald (Linda) Hamaty. Ron and Elaine had a sibling bond that never faltered. Ron was always there for Elaine as a mentor and family supporter. Elaine would give thanks for Ron, saying to her family, “what would I do without Ron by my side”. Elaine loved being a mother to her children, Dr. Ron (Joan) Brzana, Mike (Barb) Brzana, Mary Jo (Jeff) Byroade, Naomi and beloved grandchildren, Ethan, Emily, Elyse, Cody and animal family, especially her dog, Josie who would make her smile with those big loving eyes. Special thanks to all the great staff at Hillman Cancer Center, the caring nurse’s at DaVita and the compassion provided by Windber Hospice. Gratitude is extended to the prayer warriors and those who faithfully supported Elaine with cards, well wishes, flowers, delicious food and visits. Know that Elaine appreciated and cherished you all. Elaine will be sadly missed by all who knew her. There is never enough time with those you love. Take a moment and pray for someone with cancer or kidney failure, do it in honor of Elaine, who would always place others needs before her own. This is not goodbye, only so long, until we see one another again. Friends will be received from 1-3 & 5-7 p.m. on Wednesday at the Harris Funeral Home, 500 Cherry Lane, Richland, where Vigil for the deceased will be held. Funeral Mass will be held at 10 a.m. on Thursday at St. Benedict Catholic Church, Fr. David S. Peles, Pastor. Committal will be at Grandview Cemetery. On line condolences may be posted to www.wharrisfuneralhome.com.