Mildred L. Szombati, of Kingston Residence of Perrysburg, age 87, passed away Friday, May 14, 2004, at Hospice of Northwest Ohio. She was born in Mattoon, Illinois, on July 31, 1916, to Laroy Dawson and Ruby (McClure) Dawson. Millie attended Lagrange Elementary School and graduated from Woodward High School in 1933. She was inducted into the Woodward Hall of Fame in 1985 for her lifetime achievements. After graduation, she began work at Electric Auto-Lite, being promoted to supervisor while she attended the University of Toledo at night taking Engineering classes. She began her life profession as an Apprentice Tool designer at the Packard Plant in Toledo and became a Master Mechanic at Continental Aviation, retiring in 1968. At Continental, she was responsible for manufacturing an aluminum pipe wrench for the Navy and for making and testing all tools needed to assemble and disassemble jet engines in the field. Millie was one of the first female mechanical engineers of her time, meeting many roadblocks as a young, professional woman entering a challenging, male dominated career. She spent 53 years as an active member of the Society of Women Engineers and was a wonderful role model attending conventions, helping students and issuing scholarships. In 1977, she was awarded a plaque for Outstanding Achievement from the Detroit Chapter of SWE. She was also a member of the Eastern Stars #141. Millie was a member of Central Christian Church and married Bert J. Szombati on February 20, 1980. Her fondest memories are those of their travels together, especially time spent during the winter months in Naples, Florida, for over 18 years. She enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren, dancing, rock cutting and crocheting, for which she won 1st place at the Michigan State Fair. Millie is survived by her husband Bert, step-daughters, Jill (Scott) Gauthier, of Rossford and Barb Wettle, of Walbridge, 9 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her loving step-father, August Kromer, brother, Walter Dawson, step-sons Andrew and Allen Szombati, and beloved toy poodle, Coffee. There will be no visitation and interment will be private. Those wishing to make an expression of sympathy in Millie's memory may consider The Arthritis Foundation. The family would like to express a special thank you to the nurses at Hospice for their care and support, especially Bonnie, Thelma, Nicole and Cathy and to all the staff at Kingston, especially Catherine who always welcomed Millie home. Arrangements by Eggleston-Meinert-Pavley Funeral Home. Visitation: Visitation Times