Obituary of Erika M Gavornik

Gavornik, Erika Margarete, 86, peacefully passed away with family at her side on November 11, 2010. Born in Leipzig, Germany, February 24, 1924, she and her father escaped from East Germany. She met an American GI, Cyril J. Gavornik, in the West, and became an Army wife until her husband retired in 1962. They moved to St. Petersburg to raise their five children, after which she explored several occupations, gaining a private investigator license, teaching the 55-Alive driving safety course, and clerking at the Post Office. She retired to enjoy her nine grand and five great grandchildren. She became "Oma" to all. Oma entertained us with her piano, organ, and accordion, and loved to tell stories of her life and world travels, most recently to China, Tibet, Nepal, and India. People found her energetic, vivacious, and fascinating. As generous as she was, Erika loved to search for bargains while, amazing us with some of her fantastic finds. She lived for her family, leaving us with wonderful traditions, interesting stories, and loving memories. Her husband and parents predeceased her. She is survived by her children Dottie Tutt-Hutchinson (Alan), Tom Gavornik, Bernice Morrison, Mike Gavornik (Patty), Michele Routh (Shay), her grandchildren Carolyn Willett (Josh), Mike Tutt (Hillary), Rachael Gabel, Bradley, Lauren, and Lindsey Gavornik, Cassidy and Jake Routh, Valerie Hutchinson, her great grandchildren Madelin and Emma Willett, Reese and Max Tutt, Cyler Gabel, a sister, Dorothea Behn, and nieces, Gaby, Melanie, and Louisa Löeb in Germany, and best friend of 30 years, Marie Bencze. The family would like to thank the staff at Lexington Health and Rehabilitation Center and Hospice for their wonderful care. A celebration of life ceremony will be held Wednesday, November 17, 2010 at 3 p.m. at E James Reese Funeral Home in Seminole. On line guest book is at www.reesefuneral.com. Their phone is (727) 391-9954.