Deborah Marie Simak

Deborah Marie Simak, age 71 of North Oakland, Pittsburgh, passed away on July 28, 2024. She was born June 18,1953 in Glassport, Pa. She was preceded in death by parents Richard and Vincentina Simak, brother Ricky Simak, and grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Simak, Mr. Joseph Como, and memorably Lil Como. She is survived by her beloved son Zachary Holtzman, brother and sister-in-law Jim and Theresa Simak of Jacksonville Florida and their adult children Christina, Elizabeth and Andrew, daughter-in-law Danielle Lewis, many cousins particularly Nancy Como, Patty, Paula and Judy Minydzak, and some very great friends she held close to her heart. She often expressed her gratefulness for the blessings in her life, but her greatest joy were her grandchildren Lilly, Lia and Zack Holtzman with whom she was always so happy and of whom she was always so proud. She graduated from the University of Pittsburgh with Bachelor and Master degrees in Nursing and ended a successful career as Director of Quality Improvement in the medical school at the University of Pittsburgh. She enjoyed Pittsburgh's museums, parks and cultural events, especially musicals, classical music, art exhibits, Phipps flower shows, and mystery books; she was a lector at St Paul Cathedral, a kayaker, and a fan of silver sneakers and playing chess, and the #1 supporter of her grand-kids' athletic and educational endeavors. Friends and family are invited to any of the following: On Saturday, August 31, 2024, there will be a one-hour gathering 8:30AM in the St. Paul Cathedral Social Hall at 108 N Dithridge Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial in the Cathedral at 9:30AM. Inurnment at Calvary Catholic Cemetery will be private. For memorials, please consider making a donation to Phipps Conservatory at my.conservatory.org/donate/i/tributes or donate by mail to Deborah Simak Phipps Tribute, 1 Schenley Park, Pittsburgh, PA 15213 or phone (412) 622-6915, ext. 3701. Arrangements by John A. Freyvogel Sons, Inc. (freyvogelfuneralhome.com)