She was born to William and Audrey Chovanec on August 25, 1945 in Lakewood, Ohio. Soon after, they moved to Cincinnati before settling in Henderson, Kentucky. After graduating from Henderson County High School in 1963, Laura attended Southern Illinois University where she received her bachelor’s degree in Mathematics and her master’s in Educational Psychology. It was during her time as a graduate assistant at SIU that she met her husband Marvin Hinshaw who was a teacher and writer in the CSMP math program. They married on December 28,1968 and moved to Pompano Beach, Florida in 1971. Together, they had one child, their daughter Amy.
Laura embraced life and had a passion for travel and adventure, cherishing every moment exploring new destinations and cruising the seas. She enjoyed the quiet moments of relaxation on their balcony, had a knack for the daily trivia contests and delighted in the shows and activities on the ships. She enjoyed meeting fellow passengers and her warm smile and genuine interest in others led to many new friendships with those she met on board.
An avid photographer, Laura captured the beauty of her family and the world through her lens, preserving memories that will forever be treasured. Her talent led to many published photographs in books, magazines and promotional publications.
Beyond her interests and adventures, she taught computer class to the elementary school students at Christ Church School in Fort Lauderdale. After nearly twenty years at CCS, Laura retired from full time teaching and continued her work in the education field as a part time Media Center specialist at Cardinal Gibbons High School in Fort Lauderdale.
In addition to her career, she was a long time volunteer at the Lighthouse Point Library where she led the library’s semi-annual book sale for over a decade. Laura was also actively involved at the Diamondhead Condominium serving on numerous committees.
Laura is survived by her husband Marvin, daughter Amy (Ruguian), sisters Jane (Magnus) and Judy (Toy), grandson Angelito, nieces Lindsay, Brittany, Lillian Diane, and Michelle, nephew William, and many great nieces and great nephews. She was preceded in death by her father William and mother Audrey.
Though she may no longer be with us, her spirit continues to inspire and her memories will forever be in our hearts. Laura will be honored in a celebration of life on July 27, 2024 at Kraeer Funeral Home. Visiting hours are from 2 – 5 pm. 1199 NE 36th Street, Pompano Beach, Florida 33064.
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