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Walter Lonchena Obituary
Born June 24, 1932, in Bredinville, Walter was the son of the late Peter and Anna (Koday) Lonchena.
A 1951 graduate of Butler High School, Walter attended Clarion University, where he earned a bachelor's degree in education in 1955. He earned a master's degree in education from Westminster College in 1963.
He was a driver's education and history teacher at Butler High School for 42 years. In addition to teaching, he was an assistant football coach for the Golden Tornado as well as coach of the golf team. He was a member of the 1950 WPIAL champions and undefeated Golden Tornado football team in which he played center and linebacker. With his many contributions to sports, Walter was inducted into the Butler Sports Hall of Fame on March 20, 1982. He served on its board of directors for a number of years.
Walter was a member and served on the board of directors for the Butler County Teachers Federal Credit Union.
Walter was the owner and operator of the Lonchena Driving School, providing certified and private driving instruction for persons wanting to learn to drive in Butler County for over 40 years.
He faithfully served this country in the U.S. Army from 1955 to 1957 when he was honorably discharged with rank of private first class.
Walter was a member of the American Legion Post 778 and the Elks Lodge, Lodge 170. He was a member of Saints Peter and Paul Ukrainian Orthodox Church in Lyndora.
Walter was preceded in death by his wife, Gloria J. Lonchena; his parents, Peter and Anna Lonchena; nine brothers and sisters; and other nieces and nephews.
Walter is survived by his son, Terrence W. (Julie) Lonchena of Butler; his granddaughter, Venessa S. Lonchena, at home; daughter, Courtney A. Lonchena of Frederick, Md.; and numerous nieces and nephews.
LONCHENA - Visitation for Walter Lonchena, who died Friday, Nov. 6, 2015, will be from 2 to 4 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m. Wednesday at theGeibel Funeral Home, 201 E. Cunningham St., Butler.
Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Thursday at the funeral home. The Rev. Paisius McGrath, pastor, will officiate. Interment with military honors will follow at Rose Hill Cemetery.
Parastas services will be at 7 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Walter Lonchena
Richard T Hilovsky
September 14, 2016
My sincere sympathy. I was a friend of both of your parents but haven't live in the area for over 50 years. I loved and honored both of your parents. God Bless and keep the faith.
Richard T Hilovsky
Joyce Gardner
November 27, 2015
Courtney and Terry I'm so very sorry for the loss of your father. You're in my thoughts and prayers.
George Pawluk
November 13, 2015
Vichnaya Pamyat
November 11, 2015
I clearly remember Mr. Lonchena from my driver's ed. class at BHS. He had a great sense of humor, and was a patient and kind teacher to all of his students. I am still a good driver thanks to his excellent early training!
Maryann May Cella
Diablo, CA
Sandra Dente
November 10, 2015
Mr Lonchena had a very kind heart with all the students, I was one student that admired him and enjoyed his soft sense of humor. I remember his warm smile to this day and am very sorry to hear about the loss of this great person.
Sincerely,
Sally Hindman-Robison
November 9, 2015
As a cheerleader on the side lines of Butler High School football games, I remember Walt as a great asset to the team. Now so long ago and far away.
November 9, 2015
I always loved Mr. Lonchena! He taught me Driver's Ed and was the only person to ever call me Babs! He was such a fun teacher! Our condolences to his family.
Dave and Cookie Sanders Fredericksburg, VA
November 9, 2015
Sending Prayers to the family. We are so sorry for your loss.
~Candy,Dirk & Kammerin
Marjorie Felsing/Pifer
November 9, 2015
You have my sympathy in the passing of my favorite teacher. I always looked forward to seeing him, as he seemed to remember all of his students.
Terry Lonchena
November 9, 2015
A candle for you Dad, to keep you way lit. We love and miss you very much.
Love always, Venessa, Julie and Terry
Johanna Gingo Pond
November 9, 2015
My condolences to the Lonchena family. Mr. Lonchena was my Driver's Ed teacher. He made learning to drive a fun experience all the while making his students understand the importance of safety behind the wheel. He was one of the most popular, admired and beloved teachers at BHS. Rest in peace.
Don Hilgar
November 9, 2015
Did my student teaching, in the 70's, under the supervision of Mr. Lonchena. The time spent was enlightening to say the least. Mr. Lonchena was a dedicated individual, as well as, a "class act" guy. Please accept my sincere sympathy.
Mariann Goliff
November 9, 2015
Rest in peace Mr. Lonchena. He was a good guy!
Leonard Martin
November 9, 2015
RIP Walter
Randy Tracy
November 9, 2015
Condolences to family and friends of Mr Lonchena. I knew him as a gentleman and we shared some great times during my years on the BHS golf team. Rest in peace Coach!
Tom & Josette Sullivan
November 9, 2015
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
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