Obituary of Joseph L. Horvath

Joseph L. Horvath Joseph L. Horvath, 86 years old, died peacefully at his residence surrounded by his loving family on Friday, July 24, 2009. He was born August 21, 1922 in Hungary and immigrated to the United States in 1957; he was a resident of Poughkeepsie for 45 years. Mr. Horvath was a pilot and Major in the Hungarian Air Force. In Hungary, he also received his Masters in Mechanical Engineering. He escaped from Hungary after the Hungarian Revolution and was separated from his family for more than four years before his wife, son and daughter were allowed to immigrate to the United States on March 3, 1961. Joseph worked as a mechanical engineer for IBM in East Fishkill for 28 years. While there, he was the recipient of the corporate award for his contributions in the area of computer cooling systems, one of the highest awards given at IBM. He was also the recipient of numerous patents during his career with IBM. Mr. Horvath bravely fought many obstacles and challenges throughout his life, including his prolonged illness, until the end. Survivors include his loving wife of 59 years, Agnes, who was his greatest love; his son, Thomas A. Horvath and his wife, Kathryn of Stormville; his daughter, Beatrice Daggett and her husband, Chris, who is currently a New Jersey gubernatorial candidate, of Basking Ridge, NJ; five grandchildren, Joseph, Thomas, Krista, Alexandra and Justine; his adopted daughters from the heart, Christine Magdo, her huband, Paul and their son, Dimitri, Michele Magdo, her husband, Mitch and their son, Rafi, and Sonali Heidi Magdo. Services will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Joseph's name to the ASPCA, 636 Violet Avenue, Hyde Park, NY 12538, because of Mr. Horvath's great devotion to all animals. To send the family a personal condolence, please visit our website at www.StraubCatalanoHalvey.com.