Obituary of George Stoyka

STOYKA – George, 90, a longtime resident of Colver, passed away peacefully September 17, 2012 at Epworth Manor, Tyrone. Born February 26, 1922 in Wherum, son of the late John and Pauline (Matola) Stoyka. Preceded in death by first wife Helen Selko, second wife Ann M. Pasko, and sister Helen Hudak. He is survived by children: Maryann, wife of Ray Niel; Ilona, wife of Jim Zubal, both of Johnstown; Greg Stoyka, married to the former Sue Noren, Colver; Joe Stoyka and Michele, wife of Brian Collins, all of Colver; grandchildren Lynne, Kevin, Amy, Breanna, Tracey, Tricia and Jason and five great-grandchildren. Also survived by sister, Mary Evanchick and brother-in-law Michael Hudak, both of Colver. George was of Orthodox and Byzantine Catholic heritage, but also attended the Roman church with his second wife Ann. Retired, with 38 years of service to the Eastern Associated Coal Company, in Colver. George was a longtime member and former officer of UMWA Local 860, where he served on many committees and was active in the early formation of the local in our area. A World War II Army veteran, he served proudly in the Pacific Theatre. George will also be remembered for his service to the former Colver Hospital Board and the Colver Honor Roll Committee. Friends will be received from 5-8 p.m. Wednesday at the Askew-Houser Funeral Homes, Inc., Ebensburg, where a funeral service will be held at 10:00am, Thursday, the Rev. Monsignor Raymond Balta, officiating. Interment at Holy Name Cemetery, Ebensburg. Contributions in George’s memory may be made to the Colver Volunteer Fire Company.