Dennis P. Tkacs

1952 - 2025

Dennis P. Tkacs, of Greensburg, died Tuesday, July 8, 2025, after a courageous battle with Parkinson's and cancer. He was born April 6, 1952, in Braddock, to John W. and Ann Ragancsik Tkacs. Dennis earned degrees from Penn State (electrical engineering), Pitt (master's in electrical engineering and industrial engineering), and Robert Morris (doctorate in information technology), but he always remained a loyal Penn State fan. Dennis began his career in the power industry working for Dravo in Pittsburgh. He moved on to work for Robicon, Westinghouse, Andersen Consulting, Deloitte Consulting, and GE, finally retiring from Emerson. These positions afforded him the opportunity to travel to and live in many countries, including Australia, Japan, and Germany, becoming well acquainted with the culture, food, and customs and making friends that he treasured throughout his life. Working with colleagues on projects, he was awarded several patents, of which he was very proud. He filled his free time with woodworking, skiing, riding bike trails, astronomy, photography, and walking. One of his favorite pastimes was reading about history, and he had a special interest in World War II. He was a member of Our Lady of Grace Parish and served as an usher. Dennis was also a member of the Knights of Columbus, Council 1480 (Fourth Degree) in Greensburg. Missing him are his wife, Cheryl, and daughters Lydia (Seth Haas) and Meredith. He is also survived by his brother, John J. (Judy) Tkacs; his mother-in-law, Grace Farren; his sister-in-law, Brigitte Farren Gilroy; and a close cousin, Kurt Ragancsik. Dennis was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Mary Ann Szwedko; and father-in-law, William Farren. Cheryl and his daughters would like to thank the Forbes Hospital oncology doctors, nurses, and staff for their tremendous care and support. As per Dennis and his family's wishes, there will be no viewing. Relatives and friends of Dennis are invited to attend his funeral Mass to be celebrated at 10 a.m., Saturday, July 19, 2025, in the Our Lady of Grace Church, with Fr. Kenneth Zaccagnini celebrating. The family will be receiving guests beginning at 9:30 a.m. in the church gathering space. Inurnment will follow in St. John the Baptist Cemetery, Portage, PA. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in Dennis' honor to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research or a charity of your choice. Dennis' family has entrusted his care to the CLEMENT L. PANTALONE FUNERAL HOME INC., 409 W. Pittsburgh St., Greensburg, PA 15601, (724) 837-0020. For online condolences/directions, visit us at pantalone.com. Natale N. Pantalone, supervisor.