Kathryn Sheppa

Kathryn Sheppa Obituary BOARDMAN - Kathryn Sheppa, 100, passed away peacefully, Sunday, June 23, 2024, at Hospice House with her family by her side. Kathryn was born June 7, 1924, in Youngstown, a daughter of the late Frank and Helen Vaskanin Paliga, and was a lifelong area resident. A proud graduate of Chaney High School, class of 1943, Kathryn embarked on her professional journey at Truscon Steel, where she worked diligently from 1943 to 1953. She then devoted herself to the most rewarding role of her life-raising and nurturing her family. A devout and lifelong member of St. Mary's Byzantine Catholic Church, Kathryn's faith was the cornerstone of her life. She gave back to her community in numerous ways, including serving as a Girl Scout Leader and a precinct Committeewoman. She also delivered the Youngstown Vindicator with her children for 30 years. Kay had a deep love for gardening, with a special fondness for tomatoes, which she loved to give away to friends. Her adventurous spirit led her to travel, with her most cherished journey being a trip to China. Music, especially Polkas, brought her great joy, and she was known for her baking prowess, delighting family and friends with her delicious kolachi, kiffels, Easter bread, and cinnamon rolls. Kathryn was also known for her homemade popsicles, and homemade jelly which she made from grapes picked from the grapevine in her backyard. Having lived through the Great Depression, Kay was a great saver, making the most of her resources by using coupons and rebates to save. This trait reflected her resourcefulness and resilience. Kathryn took great care of herself, walking five miles a day with her husband George in Mill Creek Park. Later in life, she rode a stationary bike for 30 minutes every day. Above all, Kathryn cherished the time spent with her family, creating memories that will be treasured forever. Kay leaves to forever cherish her memory her three sons, David G. (Andrea) Sheppa of Bay Village, Mark M. (Christina) Sheppa of Solon, Tim A. Sheppa (Teresa Lord) of Boardman; her daughter, Georgiann K. (Joseph) Popovich of Boardman; five grandchildren, Joseph (Sarah Lovequist) Sheppa, Melissa (John) Syvanych, Julie Popovich, Danielle (Richard) Quittenton and Stephanie Sheppa; three great-grandchildren, Jackson, Mason, and Gwendolyn and many nieces, nephews and extended family members. Her husband of 62 years, George Sheppa, whom she married September 13, 1947, passed away March 15, 2009. Three brothers, Michael Paliga, John Paliga, and baby Frank Paliga, and four sisters, Mary P. Hripko, Anna Zurawick, Helen Nesteruk, and Suzanne Janci also preceded Kathryn in death. Family and friends may call from 10 to 11:30 a.m. on Monday, July 1, 2024, at Kinnick Funeral Home 477 N. Meridian Rd., Youngstown. Funeral services will begin at 11:30 a.m. at the funeral home and continue with a Funeral Liturgy which will be celebrated at noon at St. Mary's Byzantine Catholic Church 356 S. Belle Vista Ave. Interment will follow at St. Mary's Byzantine Catholic Cemetery where Kathryn will be laid to rest beside her husband. In lieu of flowers, Kathryn's family suggests memorial contributions be made to St. Mary's Byzantine Catholic Church in Kathryn's memory. Kay's family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to her wonderful care givers, Jan Stamp and Kathy Trella for their kindness, compassion and dedicated care. Kay's family would also like thank Dr. Charles Wilkins and his nurse, Ann Marie Barbato for their compassion and support throughout the years.