Robert Olenik

Robert Olenik obituary, North Strabane, PA

Robert Olenik

Robert Olenik Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Griffith Funeral Home, Inc. on Jan. 5, 2026.
On Saturday, January 3, 2026, Robert "Bob" Olenik, of North Strabane, passed away peacefully at home at the age of 87.

Born in Stowe Township on October 5, 1938, Bob was the oldest child of Stephen and Anna (Bonchak) Olenik.

He joined the United States Marine Corps in 1958. After completing his service, he headed back home to Pittsburgh. While working as a lab technician at J&L Steel, he met his beloved bride of 61-years, Francine. They married less than six months later and started a family.

Bob went on to work at PPG Industries, where he spent the rest of his career before retiring as the Director of Human Resources. Among his professional accomplishments, Bob successfully spearheaded the corporation's move from Gateway Center to the (then) brand new PPG Place as the relocation manager.

After retirement, Bob focused on new challenges- like learning how to cook. He took pleasure perfecting his new culinary art with each family gathering and even created his own "Chef Bob's Cookbook" for family.

An avid reader, Scrabble player & crossword puzzle aficionado, Bob enjoyed spending time with family & watching all his favorite Pittsburgh sports teams win. He always loved animals and had a special place in his heart for all his furry family members as well.

Bob is survived by his wife, Francine, son Joseph, of North Strabane, and daughter Jennifer (Kevin) Pollard, of Washington. Surviving siblings include: Stephen (late Cathy) Olenik of Woodinville, Washington, William (Cindi) Olenik of Aliquippa, Marion (Mike) Honyoust of Charlotte, NC and Joanne Olenik of Pittsburgh. He is also survived by numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by an infant daughter, Suzanne and his oldest son, Robert.

A Funeral Mass will be held in Our Lady of Hope Parish - Nativity Church on Saturday, January 10, 2026 at 10 a.m. Arrangements by GRIFFITH FUNERAL HOME, INC., 5636 Brownsville Road, (at 6th St.) South Park Twp. (412) 655-4600.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Bob's memory may be made to: Angel Ridge Animal Rescue, PO Box 94, Meadowlands, PA 15347.

Condolences may be offered for the family at www.GriffithFH.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Griffith Funeral Home, Inc.

5636 Brownsville Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15236

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