Eva Elizabeth Szostak

Eva Umhauer Szostak, 96, of Greensboro, NC, passed gracefully from this world on Saturday, January 13, 2024, from the comfort of her own home. Born on November 9, 1927, in Heppenheim, Germany, to the late Philip and Barbara Umhauer, Eva had a life that sparkled with love, laughter, and a touch of mischief.

Eva was preceded in death by her husband of 58 years, Boleslaw “Bill” Szostak, two children, Joseph and Thaddeus, and grandson, Philip Rollinson.

Eva's journey through life was colored by the sweet twists of fate, much like her husband Bill's journey to love. Post-World War II, Bill's sweet tooth guided him to the Umhauer family bakery in Heppenheim, where he discovered the delectable delight of both pastries and a lifelong partnership with Eva. Their love story unfolded, leading them to tie the knot in November of 1948. Their immigration to the US on July 3, 1949, marked the beginning of a tradition of celebration they cherished every year in Greensboro, NC.

Together, Bill and Eva ventured into the world of structural engineering, founding Szostak & Associates in 1963. The two worked together for over 30 years, qualifying Eva for Heavenly Angel status. When not conquering engineering challenges, Eva found joy in baking with her grandkids, crafting special keepsakes with her knitting needles, and mastering the art of water aerobics at the YWCA.

Eva was a loving mother and guiding light to 6 children, 8 grandchildren, and 3 great-grandchildren. She is survived by Philip Szostak and his wife, Rhonda, and children, Somer Szostak and Avery Varley, Zac Szostak and Kali Faatz, and Jewel of Chapel Hill, NC; daughter Barbara Rollinson and her husband, Rick, and son William and wife, Kathleen of Raleigh, NC; son Bill Szostak and his wife, Alice, and children Rebecca Szostak and Nick Koren of Cary, NC and Anna Szostak and Randall Greeson of Pleasant Garden, NC; daughter Eva Szostak of Greensboro, NC; granddaughter Sara Szostak (Joe’s daughter) and Phil Allison of McLeansville, NC. Eva is also survived by her 3 great-grandchildren, Walter, Liam, and Eleanor Rollinson of Raleigh, NC.

Eva and Bill were founding members of Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church and remained very active in the church over the years and always looked forward to her monthly Women’s Club luncheons.

A heartfelt Thank You is extended to her daughter, Eva, for the exceptional care provided in recent years, and to her son, Billy, who was always ready to lend a helping hand.

Eva's memorial service will be a celebration of her vibrant life at Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church on Thursday, January 25, 2024, at 1:30 pm. Following the service, friends and family are invited to share memories at the Kathleen Price Bryan Hall at the church.

In lieu of flowers, consider making a memorial donation to the Children's Home Society of North Carolina or Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church.

Online condolences may be made at www.haneslineberryfhnorthelm.com.