Brigitte J Szakats, 91, of Delray Beach, FL since 2013, passed away on December 24, 2022.  Brigitte was born on May 17, 1931 in Gablonz, Czechoslovakia.  After the war, her family relocated to Germany, where she met her beloved husband, Paul Szakats, in high school, and where she completed her education to become a Pediatric Nurse.  In 1957, she emigrated to the United States, where she and her husband married and raised a family in New Jersey.

Always seeking out the bright side of life, Brigitte could light up a room with her positive attitude and infectious laugh.  She was an avid tennis player for most of her life.  In her later years, she enjoyed playing bridge and traveling the world.

Brigitte was predeceased by her husband, Paul S Szakats, and her son, Peter Szakats, who died at a very young age of pediatric cancer.  Brigitte is survived by her children: Christiane Schumaker and husband Aaron Schumaker; Stephen Szakats and wife Patricia Szakats; and John Szakats and wife Courtenay Szakats.  She is also survived by six grandchildren: Christopher Nagel, Alexandra Szakats, Stephanie Szakats, Caroline Szakats, Kimberley Szakats, and Allison Schumaker.

Per her last wishes, Brigitte's ashes will be scattered in a private ceremony over the Atlantic Ocean, which she crossed by boat 65 years ago, and where she enjoyed floating on the waves for hours.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Click here to donate online.