Catherine Buettel

June 22, 1925 – March 10, 2026

Catherine Hovancsak, 100, passed away peacefully on March 10, 2026, at the Menlo Park Veterans Memorial Home in Edison, New Jersey.

Born on June 22, 1925, in Elizabeth, New Jersey, Catherine was the daughter of the late Catherine and Anthony Hovancsak. She graduated from Baton High School in Elizabeth, New Jersey and worked for Westinghouse until 1955. It was in Asbury Park that she met the love of her life, Paul Buettel – stationed at Fort Monmouth Army Base. The couple married in 1948 and eventually settled in Colonia, New Jersey, where they built a life defined by faith, family, and service.

Catherine was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. A lifelong Catholic, she was a dedicated communicant of St. John Vianney Church in Colonia. Her commitment to her community was equally profound; she spent countless hours volunteering at the American Legion Post 248, the VFW Post 6062 in Colonia, NJ and the Menlo Park Veterans Home in Edison. She was particularly known for her tireless efforts selling poppies to support veterans.

Catherine was predeceased by her beloved husband of 53 years, Paul Buettel; her son, Robert Buettel; and her brothers, Albert and Anthony Hovancsak.

She is survived by her son Joseph Buettel and his wife, Susan, grandchildren Lauren (Buettel) Elliott and her husband, Carl; and Joseph Buettel with whom she shared many cherished Monopoly games and her brand-new great-grandson Zachary Elliott.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made in Catherine's name to the Colorectal Cancer Alliance

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