Augusta M. Hlatky

Augusta M. Hlatky, 63, of Washington, New Jersey, passed away peacefully at her home on June 29, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.

Born on July 26th, 1962, in the Township of Raritan, New Jersey, Augusta was the beloved daughter of the late Lawrence E. Gares and Dorothy M. Gares (née Beam).

Augusta dedicated many years of service as a sales associate with Staples and AutoZone, where she was known for her friendly personality and willingness to help others. In her free time, she enjoyed playing billiards at the YMIA in Phillipsburg and had a special fondness for collecting all things cow. Above all else, Augusta treasured the time she spent with her family, who were the center of her life and greatest source of joy.

She is lovingly survived by her fiancé, Joseph K. Kerekes Jr.; her four children, Mike Hlatky Sr. and his significant other Brenda Fretz, Crystal Sutton and her husband Stephen, Ashley Dilts and her husband, A.J., and Brittnay Hartranft and her significant other Gage Wiseburn; her siblings, Robert “Bob” Gares, Lawrence “June” Gares Jr., Rich Gares and his wife Hope Gares, Joe Gares, Ed Gares, and Lila Nisen; her cherished grandchildren, Michael Hlatky Jr., Mason “Dakota” O'Neill and his wife Kayla O’Neill, Christopher "C.J." Spargo Jr., Madison Hlatky, Jacob Hlatky, Brayden Hlatky, Paisley Hartranft, and Ezra Dilts; and her treasured great-granddaughter, Victoria Hlatky. She also leaves behind many extended family members and friends who will miss her dearly.

In addition to her parents, Augusta was predeceased by her brother, Bill Gares, and her brother-in-law Jimmie Nisen.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Warren Hills Memorial Home. In accordance with Augusta's wishes, all services will be private.