Joseph J. Horvatis, former chief of IRS taxpayer services

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Joseph J. Horvatis, 81, of Clarence, former division chief of taxpayer service assistance for the Internal Revenue Service in Buffalo, died April 18, 2007, in Millard Fillmore Suburban Hospital, Amherst.

Born in Buffalo, he attended Hutchinson Central High School and Canisius College. He was a staff sergeant with the Army's 9th Infantry during World War II. He was awarded the Bronze Star for heroic achievements and the Purple Heart for injuries sustained during the war.

Mr. Horvatis, a former Cheektowaga resident, was the originator of a system that allowed taxpayers to telephone their questions to the Buffalo IRS office instead of coming in person. He also started the Taxpayer Assistance Van, which accepted returns on tax deadline day.

Mr. Horvatis was a regular guest on John Otto's radio show during tax season, answering call-in questions.

After he retired from the IRS in 1980, the Joseph Horvatis Award was established. It is given to employees who exemplify quality customer service.

He was a member of the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign War and the Disabled Veterans of America. He was also an avid fisherman.

Mr. Horvatis is survived by his wife, the former Mildred "Mollie" Kiristis; five daughters, Suzanne Tozer, Christine Blackwood, Deborah Zubricky, Cynthia Wintringer and Lisa Brand; and a sister, Teresa McMullen.

Prayers were offered Saturday, April 21 from Dengler & Roberts Funeral Home followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at Our Lady of Peace Church in Clarence.