Allyson L. Koteski

Allyson L. Koteski, 51, of Plum Borough, passed away peacefully, with her family at her side, Thursday morning, Feb. 8, 2024, after a two-year battle with cancer. She was preceded in death by her parents, Lawrence and Rena Lynn (Hursh) Koteski; and is survived by her brothers and sister, Jon Koteski (Carmen Lee), Wesley Koteski (Jennifer Bombach) and Rena Lynn Koteski (Dave Shbilla). Allyson will always be remembered for her smile and loving way of life. She continually thought more of others than herself. Even during her final weeks, her primary focus was not on herself, but on the preparations needed to make the transition easier for her family, especially for her nieces and nephews, Clara, Lucy, Grace, Molly, Lincoln, Anika and Octavius. When she wasn't spending time with her family, she could always be found traveling the world with friends, reading a good book or watching a cooking show. After graduating from Hiram College with a dual degree in international economics and management, she began working for Toys R' Us in their management trainee program. This led to various assignments and projects across the country and made her the "favorite aunt" during holidays. She always had access to those tough-to-find toys! Wanting to come back to Pittsburgh to help with the care of her parents, she accepted a senior position at Phipps Conservatory. This resulted in a newfound love of nature, flowers and botany. At every chance, she encouraged people to visit the gardens, especially during the dreary depths of the Pittsburgh winters. Even though she lived what appeared to be a humble life, she was always searching for the next adventure. She has skied the Alps, gone on safari in Africa and swam the crystal blue waters of the Caribbean. She has floated the rivers of Venice, walked the "Old Course" in Scotland and sunbathed on the beaches of Australia. She has trekked thousand-year-old glaciers, walked the desert on different continents and had coffee under the Eiffel Tower. Ally never shied away from adventure. For her, the best part of life was the experiences created with family and friends, including the simple trips she would take with her nieces and nephews to Hershey Park, Kennywood and Lake Erie. These memories will always be cherished by those who have traveled with her. Now that her battle is over, she probably has a map in front of her and has her bags packed preparing for the next trip, probably somewhere with a palm tree. Her smile, kindness and love for life will be missed, especially by those who knew her as a sister, aunt, friend or coworker...until we meet again, Ally, keep traveling and give Mom and Dad a hug for us! Your joy and love will always be remembered. Family and friends will be received from 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 15, at MAURICE L. KNEE LTD. FUNERAL HOME, 7663 Saltsburg Road, Plum, PA 15239. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Friday (time and church will be announced as soon as confirmed), and interment will follow in Plum Creek Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, Ally's family suggests donations to Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. Please email Mr. Greg DuFour, director of development campaign, at gdufour@phipps.conservatory.org for more information. We would also like to thank the staff at Suncrest Hospice, especially nurses Pete and Jeanie. We couldn't have done it without you.