Mary Hochberger, 79, of Oxnard passed away from complications of Alzheimer’s Disease on August 26, 2017.

Mary was born June 7, 1938 to Speros and Androniki Gikas in Sioux City, Iowa, and was a resident of Oxnard for the past 58 years.  In addition to being an outstanding homemaker and mother, Mary worked in the medical field as an office manager for several doctors in the community over the years.

Mary was a founding member of Saint Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church, serving 6 years on the Parish Council, including 2 years as Secretary of the Council and 2 years as Treasurer of the Parish.  She was a devoted member of the church, regularly attending and serving as chair of many committees and boards.  For many years, Mary, who was known as “The Church Lady” wrote the ‘Community News’ article in the monthly bulletin.  

Mary was a long time member of the Philoptochos Society of St. Demetrios, serving many years on the board of directors and in many offices.  She was co-chair of the annual rummage sale for 9 years, which raised nearly one hundred thousand dollars for charity.

She has been active in the Daughters of Penelope, a Hellenic philanthropic organization since 1962.  She served in all local offices and was elected to a district office (5 states) in 1985.

She served for many years as a fundraiser for the American Heart Association.

Mary is survived by her loving husband, Lyle, of 58 years, and a beloved family consisting of daughter, Stacy (Michael) Ballas of Oxnard; son, Steven Hochberger of San Diego; grandchildren, Nicole, Matthew and Alexis Schmitz; step-grandchildren, Christina, William and Tom Ballas, and Tessa (Jake) Hazard.

Mary will be remembered most for her young-at-heart spirit, love of the Dodgers and Lakers, and devotion to her children, grandchildren and church.

The family is grateful to Troy McCreery, RN for advice, love and support.

The Family wishes to thank the wonderful caregivers from Alma Via of Camarillo and Oxnard Manor for the love and care provided to Mary in recent years.           

In lieu of flowers, Mary had requested donations be made to either the Saint Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church Building Fund or to the Alzheimer’s Association California Coast Chapter, 145 Hodencamp Rd. #205, Thousand Oaks, CA 91360.

...Family in the care of Erin Arteaga, Funeral Director

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