Mary Elizabeth Furda

Furda, Mary Elizabeth (Novitsky) of Johnstown, formerly of East Conemaugh; Passed away Feb. 4, 2011 at home. “Teenie” was born June 3rd, 1923, Johnstown. The daughter of immigrant parents John and Barbara (Petriska) Novitsky. The last remaining sibling of her family, preceded in death by parents; brothers George (Mary), Mike (Elizabeth), John (Kathryn), Pete (Zelma), and Ted (Leona); sisters Anne (Mike Fedornock), Julia (John Dolgos); childhood sister Mary; and infant brothers Alex and Steve. Survived by daughter Mary Beth married to Denny Kassick, Ferndale; and “One and Only” grandson Chuck Kassick. Also survived by God Child Debbie Boyd; God Child and special niece Kay Novitsky and special niece Donna Yackulich, as well as many nieces, nephews and friends that were special to her throughout all of her life. She was a faithful member of SS Peter & Paul Orthodox Church in Windber. She was the head cook at Conemaugh Valley schools for a number of years. Afterward she was a bartender at the Carpatho Russian Club in East Conemaugh until retiring at the age of 70. A devoted family matriarch, she was a devout Steelers fan and never missed a game. We will never forget her humor, her wit, and her stories of the good times with her family. Family and friends received 2-8 p.m. Tuesday at the Harris Funeral Home, 500 Cherry Lane, Richland,  where funeral service will be held at 6:00 p.m. Panachida at 9:30 a.m. Wednesday at the funeral home followed by Divine Liturgy at 10 at SS Peter & Paul Orthodox Church, Windber. The Very Rev. Miles P. Zdinak, Pastor. Interment at Church Cemetery.  Family suggests contributions be made to SS Peter & Paul Orthodox Church, 141 Hoffman Farm Road, Windber, PA, 15963 in memory of Mary. Online condolences may be left at www.wharrisfuneralhome.com.