Andrew Demchak

POLAND - Geraldine "Gerry" Demchak, 84, passed away peacefully, with family by her side, on Sept. 6, 2014. Two days later, with family by his side, Gerry's soul mate, best friend, and adoring husband of 57 years, Andrew "Andy" Demchak, 87, departed this world to join the love of his life.

Geraldine was born on Feb. 24, 1930, in Struthers, the daughter of John and Evelyn (DiPippo) Diorio.

She was a graduate of Struthers High School and Youngstown State University. Gerry was a dedicated teacher for 13 years, working in Youngstown, North Olmstead, Akron, and North Miami Beach school systems.

She enjoyed baking, sewing, card club, and her senior citizen groups. Gerry happily chose to serve. She volunteered for 18 years at Northside Hospital in many capacities. She was humble, loving, and charitable.

Gerry was preceded in death by her three sisters, Palma (Chuck) Angelo, Ethel (Steve) Dutko, and Gertrude (Harry) Ballsinger.

Andrew was born on July 25, 1927, in Campbell, the son of Michael and Anna (Bury) Demchak.

He was a graduate of Campbell Memorial High School, and a veteran of the U.S. Navy.

Andy worked at Republic Steel as a railroad engineer, a brakeman, and conductor for 35 years, until his retirement in 1985.

He enjoyed golfing, bowling, and gardening. Andy never said an unkind word about anyone. He loved others the way the Savior asked us to love, unconditionally and without reserve.

Andy was preceded in death by his sister, Catherine Gordan, and five brothers, John, Anthony, Joseph, Michael, and Stephan.

Family is what Gerry and Andy cherished most. They were parents and grandparents who were constant in their love, guidance, and example. They will be sadly missed by their children, Andrea (Robert) Patton, and Andrew (Kathy) Demchak; along with their four grandchildren, Alex, Rory, Marc, and Patrick; and many nieces and nephews.

Both Gerry and Andy were proud and faithful members of the Holy Family Church.

The family would like to thank the compassionate and dedicated nurses at Maplecrest Rehabilitation floor and All Caring Hospice, for helping to make Geraldine's journey to the Lord so peaceful. They would like to thank the compassionate and dedicated nurses at St. Elizabeth Boardman Health Center (6th floor) for the excellent and loving care they gave Andrew throughout his stay there. A special thank you to Dr. Sayed Yosseff and his entire office staff for the special care they gave Andrew over the last three years. "Words cannot express our gratitude."

The family will receive friends Saturday, Sept. 13, 2014, from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. at the Higgins-Reardon Funeral Home, Poland Chapel, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. at the Holy Family Church.

In lieu of flowers, the family wishes you make a contribution to a charity of your choice.