Joan Berongi, a longtime Massapequa Park resident and secretary at St. David's Lutheran Church, died May 15, 2006 at the age of 81.

Born in Ohio, she moved to Massapequa Park from Queens on December 2, 1952. "She lived on Broadway in Massapequa for more than 54 years," said Lynn Weiler, the parish secretary who worked with Mrs. Berongi for two years. "She will be greatly missed by many, many people."

According to church records, Mrs. Berongi became a member on October 18, 1953, a year before the church was actually built, making her one of its earliest members. She worked as the church's secretary for almost 40 years.

When she wasn't spending time with her family or with her church, she loved to tend to her flower garden and was a member of several bowling leagues.

Mrs. Berongi leaves behind her husband of 60 years, Robert; her children: Judy Vincent and her husband Ross, Robert Jr. and William and his wife Kelly; her grandchildren: Adam, Jason, Robert III and Christine.

Mrs. Berongi reposed at the Massapequa Funeral Home, 1050 Park Boulevard, Massapequa Park on May 16 and 17, 2006. A Religious service was held at St. David's Lutheran Church on May 17 followed by a private cremation.

Donations in Mrs. Berongi's name can be sent to St. David's Lutheran Church, 20 Clark Boulevard, Massapequa Park, NY 11762.