Nancy passed away on February 15, 2023, at the age of 97. She was an Arizona resident since 1947, moving to Phoenix as a newlywed. She was preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Anna Stambal, husband John Hnida, daughter Donna Hnida, and sisters, Betty Macek and Marie Minor. Survivors include her son John A. Hnida (Mara Giles), granddaughter Sofia Giles Hnida, sister Judy Torphy, many nieces, nephews, and friends.
In her youth Nancy was a founding member of the Sharon PA Slovene Juvenile Circle. This group promoted social activities including plays, choir, and ethnic dance. Nancy maintained a love for Slovene culture her entire life. She was employed as a secretary, in a childcare facility teaching nursery school, and as a salesperson in an antiques store and in several boutiques. She did volunteer work in schools, at Phoenix Children’s Hospital and as a lay member of Miles Jesu.
Nancy had a lifelong love of reading, antiques, and crossword puzzles. She kept up a dedicated correspondence with friends and relatives. She had a way of making people realize they mattered. She will be forever missed.
A service celebrating Nancy’s life will be held at Whitney & Murphy Funeral Home, 4800 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix on Thursday, February 23, 2023 at 10:00AM. Private burial will follow at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Miles Jesu, 1925 E. Baseline Road, Phoenix, Arizona 85042. ZIVIO! Condolences may be expressed at www.whitneymurphyfuneralhome.com
Mary Lou Cook
John and Family
We are so very sorry for your loss. Aunt Nancy was such a lovely lady! We all absolutely loved her decades of pen pal correspondences! The world feels a bit quiet now without her presence. With great love, Mary Lou Hnida Alyssa and Hannah
William J. Hnida
To John and your Family,
Our condolences. We will miss Aunt Nancy’s notes and cards. They’re dancing a Polka in Heaven tonight!
Billy and Sarah Hnida