Richard L. Yelenic

Richard L. Yelenic, 85, of North Huntingdon, passed away following an extended illness on Friday, June 11, 2010, in Baldock Health Care Centre, North Huntingdon. He was born July 31, 1924, in Braddock, a son of the late John Matt Yelenic and Julia (Sebleski) Yelenic Majernik, and was also preceded in death by a sister, Florence Wrona. He was a retired conductor for Union Railroad and a World War II Army veteran, having received a Purple Heart with Oak Leaf Cluster and four Bronze Stars. He was a loving husband, father and grandfather. Richard was a gentleman, World War II Ranger, railroader, nature lover, adventurer, avid reader, scuba partner, golfer, swimmer and an original humorist. His presence added to the betterment of mankind and he will be greatly missed. Surviving are his wife of 62 years, Alice (Bozic) Yelenic; daughters, Rene' Delane and her husband, Rob, of Westerville, Ohio, and Jonette "Jill" Niemann, of Stuart, Fla.; granddaughters, Sonya and Marisa Delane; siblings, Robert Yelenic and his wife, Nancy, of San Antonio, Texas, and Shirley Farrell, of Washington state; also nieces and nephews. At the family's request, there will be no viewing. The family would like to extend special, heartfelt thanks to Jean Easter, Jodi Biscoff, Samantha Stouffer and Marty Magill of Heartland Hospice for making life easier for patient and family and to the staff and caregivers of Baldock Health Care Centre for their special and compassionate care. Those wishing may contribute to a charity of choice or spend it on something for yourself in memory of Rich. WILLIAM SNYDER FUNERAL HOME, 521 Main St., Irwin, in charge of arrangements.