John Yanko

Yanko, John, 92, of Johnstown went to be with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on August 26, 2015 at his home surrounded by his loving family.  Born on April 3, 1923 in Johnstown, son of George and Helen (Masich) Yanko. Preceded in death by parents; brothers, Frank, Steve, George, and Michael; and sisters, Mary Michnya and Anna Boryk. He is survived by his loving wife Gail Smithbower, whom he married on June 23, 1951 ending a 64 year marriage; children, Christine wife of Chuck Kaminsky of Johnstown; Kathleen wife of Sam Howard of New Florence, John of Johnstown; Darlene wife of Charles Salay of Davidsville; Five grandchildren, Christine, Heather, Chad, Holly and Jason; Six Great-grandchildren, Brady, Sydney, Brooks, Matthew, Hannah and Beau; sisters, Helen Woolf and Betty Fetcik; brother, Peter and wife Irene; and numerous nieces and nephews. John was a US Army Veteran serving during World War II, and was a Purple Heart recipient.  He was a retired truck driver from Yanko Brothers Trucking Company, where he worked his entire life.  John was a life time member of Sgt. Michael Strank VFW, Franklin Borough, and Franklin Fire Company; 65 year member of Conemaugh American Legion and a member of Conemaugh Fireman’s Club.  John enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Member of Holy Trinity Byzantine Catholic Church where Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:00 AM Saturday, Fr. Robert Oravetz T.O.R. Friends will be received from 2 - 8 p.m. on Friday at the Baker-Harris Funeral Chapel, Conemaugh. Committal Saint Michael Cemetery, Loretto with military rites conducted by Menoher Post #155 VFW Ritual Team. The family suggests contributions be directed to Holy Trinity Byzantine Catholic Church in memory of John. On line condolences may be posted to www.wharrisfuneralhome.com.