John Merichko

1914 - 07

John Merichko, 98, of Latrobe, formerly of New Alexandria, died peacefully Thursday, Feb. 14, 2013, in Latrobe Regional Health and Rehabilitation. He was born July 21, 1914, in New Alexandria, a son of the late John and Catherine (Slabodnik) Merichko. He was the last surviving member of his immediate family. Prior to retiring, John was a farmer. He was also employed by Latrobe Construction and as a bus driver by the former New Alexandria Bus Co. He was formerly a longtime member of St. BarthoIomew Catholic Church, Crabtree, and most recently, a member of St. James Pastoral Community. He very much enjoyed hunting, trapping and going to flea markets and auctions. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Joseph Merichko; and sisters, Mary Elias, Anna M. Shearer and Irene Miller. John is survived by his loving family, his devoted niece and caregiver, Barbara Pagnotta and her husband, Francis; and several nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews. Respecting John's wishes, visitation, services and interment in Twin Valley Memorial Park, Delmont, will be private. VAIA FUNERAL HOME INC., 463 Athena Drive, Delmont, 724-468-1177, has been entrusted with the arrangements. Barbara would like to thank the staff and caregivers of Latrobe Regional Health and Rehabilitation Center and Erica and Mary from Three Rivers Hospice for the loving care of her uncle. To send online expressions of sympathy or obtain grief support information, please visit http://www.VaiaFuneralHome.com.