With profound sadness, we announce the passing of our beloved Anne Elizabeth Strozak, who left us on December 18, 2024, at the age of 49. A cherished daughter, sister, aunt, niece, neighbor, and friend, Annie touched the lives of everyone she met with her incredible joy, boundless heart, and infectious love for life.

Born on March 17, 1975, a St. Patrick’s Day baby, in Red Bank, NJ, we did not know how fortunate we were to be gifted with Anne. She grew up surrounded by the love of her family and friends in Aberdeen, NJ, where she was known for her daily walks around the neighborhood, her vibrant personality, her irrepressible spirit, and her remarkable ability to light up any room she entered.

A lifelong parishioner of St. Benedict’s Parish, Anne was an active member of the community, serving as a Eucharistic Minister and a member of the school kitchen staff. She was a regular at the 5 p.m. Mass, often found sitting front and center, adorned in kitten heels, her fanciest jewelry, and makeup, singing with unrestrained joy. She once even performed a self-appointed solo, filling the church with a truly miraculous performance.

As one of the founding families of Family Resource Associates (FRA), Anne’s journey began long before early intervention became a widespread practice. FRA’s pioneers supported her with occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech therapy, and social groups, helping her develop skills that would serve her throughout her life.

Anne also enjoyed a rich and active social life, thanks to her involvement with the H.A.M. Therapeutic Recreation program run by Aberdeen Township. As a camper, she delighted in horseback riding, sailing, bowling, beach and pool club outings, trips to the Bronx Zoo, aquariums, and amusement parks. A thrill-seeker and lover of roller coasters, Anne’s favorite activities often involved swinging high and riding the rides. As a young adult, she was given an honorary Head Camper role, which she embraced with meticulous diligence and dedication.

Her participation in the H.A.M. program also included weekly bowling leagues, movie nights, Senior Night Owls, dancing, and drama performances. These activities provided her with opportunities to travel, including cruises, visits to a Dude Ranch, and unforgettable trips, where the real highlight for Anne was always the open soda bar and unlimited buffets.

In her youth, Anne was a proud participant in the Special Olympics through Marlboro schools, earning numerous medals in swimming and track and field. But the real award was witnessing the spirit of inclusivity, love, and joy that she brought to the games. Once again, Anne gave more than she received—her presence was a gift to everyone.

In her final days, Anne was surrounded by the comfort of her family in Holmdel, NJ, where she continued to radiate love despite her challenging circumstances. 

Anne was part of the first generation of people with Down Syndrome to live into middle age. Unfortunately, she developed early-onset Alzheimer’s, a cruel disease that ultimately claimed her life. Even in this, Anne continues to serve a greater cause, helping researchers learn more about this debilitating illness.

Anne was one of a kind—loving, joyful, with a sprinkle of sass. She was quick to forgive, but if you crossed her, you were likely erased and she’d hold that grudge with pride. Her sharp mind, resourcefulness, cleverness, and pure joy were matched only by her loving, innocent nature. She had a gift for bringing people together, and that legacy will be remembered by all who knew her.

Anne is survived by her devoted mother, MaryEllen; her sister, Alexis; brother-in-law, Billy; godson and nephew, William; nephew, Charles; Aunts Pat, Claire (and Uncle Buddy), Ellen, and Marilyn; cousins Jeanne, Stephanie, Claire, Stephen, John, and Michael; second cousins Mary Jane, Sue Ann, Don (Mary), Jennifer (Anthony), PJ, Anthony, Nicholas, Devon, Ceara, Aislinn, Isabella, Ava, Gabriella, Ethan, and Elle. She was preceded in death by her father, Stephen; uncle, Victor; and cousin, Gerard.

Our hearts are broken by Anne’s loss and it is deeply felt by all who knew her.  

Visitation will be Sunday, December 22nd from 1:00-4:00 PM at the Holmdel Funeral Home, 26 S. Holmdel Rd, Holmdel NJ, 07733. The burial will follow the next day, Monday, December 23rd at 9:30 AM at William C. Doyle Veterans Memorial Cemetery.

A memorial Mass will be Saturday, December 28th, 9:00 AM at St. Benedict RC Church, 165 Bethany Road, Holmdel.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Anne’s honor to Family Resource Associates, donations can be made online at https://www.frainc.org/donatenow/donate-now-2023.html  or Holistic Hospice, 1268 Route 37, Suite 2, Toms River, NJ 08755

We Care

Though she may no longer be with us, Anne’s spirit will continue to inspire us. Rest in peace, dear Anne. You will forever be missed.