Dec 19, 2013

Vet was devoted husband, father, grandfather

John Sminko, 86, of Monongahela, died Wednesday, December 18, 2013, in Monongahela Valley Hospital.

He was born December 1, 1927, in Monongahela, a son of George and Anna Pascoe Sminko.

Mr. Sminko was a 1945 graduate of Monongahela High School and was Orthodox.

A U.S. Navy veteran, he served during World War II and was a member of American Legion Frank Downer Post 302 of Monongahela.

Mr. Sminko retired from Combustion Engineering in East Monongahela.

He was a hard-working man in his younger days and enjoyed the outdoors, wildlife, boating, fishing and spending time on the Monongahela River. Mr. Sminko will be remembered for his friendly personality. He loved talking to people and reminiscing about times in the past.

He was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. Above all, he cherished his time with his granddaughters, Sarah and Rachel, whom he dearly loved.

Surviving are his wife of 54 years, Claire Turic Sminko, daughter Shelly and beloved son-in-law Rob Hetzler and granddaughters Sarah and Rachel, all of Monongahela; sister Shirley Huber of Bentleyville; brother-in-law Michael Turic and wife Maria of Elmira, N.Y.; and several nieces and nephews.

He also leaves behind his loyal companion, Sadie.

Deceased, in addition to his parents, are four sisters, Mary Wiliuszis, Ann Simon and Helen and Irene Kramer.

Friends will be received from 6 to 9 p.m. Friday in Frye Funeral Home Inc., 427 West Main Street, Monongahela, where a blessing service will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, December 21, with the Very Rev. Edward Pehanich officiating. Interment will follow in Monongahela Cemetery. Panachida services will be conducted at 7 p.m. Friday in the funeral home.

The family suggests contributions in Mr. Sminko’s memory be made to the charity of one’s choice.

Condolences may be made to the family at www.fryefuneralhome.com.