George Oleksa

OLEKSA – George, 96, of Richland (formerly of East Taylor Twp.) was taken home by our Lord to be with his loving wife for all eternity on Sunday, August 27, 2023. Born April 18, 1927 in East Conemaugh, son of the late Michael and Suzanna (Gera) Oleksa. He is preceded in death by his loving wife of over 68 years, Catherine “Kitty” (Husla); brothers, Michael, John, Steve, and Paul Oleksa; sisters, Irene Harr, Sue Barczak, Anna Zapotechne and Mary Sokach; brothers-in-law Ken Harr, Leo Barczak, Edward Zapotechne and Michael Sokach; and sister-in-law Miriam Oleksa. George is survived by sons George M. (Robin) Oleksa, Gary S. (Nancy) Oleksa, David A. and Kevin J. (Chris) Oleksa.  He is also survived by brother Rudy (Carol) Oleksa of Lancaster, PA, and sister-in-law Helen Oleksa of Brownstown.  Grandchildren Tracy (Wayne) Nardecchia, Melinda (Carlos) Perez, Brian (Kim) Oleksa, Anthony Oleksa, Nick (Jen) Oleksa and Michael Oleksa.  Many great grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. George received a Bachelor's Degree from the University of Pittsburgh and a Master's Degree from St. Francis University. He was retired from the PA State Office of Vocational Rehabilitation where he was a social security disability examiner for 35 years.  George was a life member of the Knights of Columbus, American Legion and VFW.  He was also a member of the Greek Catholic Union and St. Mary’s Byzantine Catholic Church, Power St.  George was a World War II and Korean War Navy veteran.  His hobbies included collecting Lionel trains, playing pinochle, listening, and dancing to Polka music and traveling in his retirement years with his wife.  He was a fan of the Pittsburgh Pirates, Penguins and avid fan of the Pitt and Steelers football.  George was exceptionally proud to serve as a cantor in the church for over 60 years. Friends and family will be received from  2-4 and 6-8 PM  Thursday at Harris Funeral Home, 500 Cherry Lane,  Richland, where Parastas will be held at 7 pm. Funeral Liturgy will be held at  9 AM  Friday morning, Sept. 1, at St. Mary’s Byzantine Catholic Church, Power St., with Msgr. Ray Balta. Committal at  Holy Trinity Byzantine Catholic Cemetery with military rites by Marine Corps League. (www.wharrisfuneralhome.com)