Richard P. Trenk

1953 - 08

Richard P. Trenk, 62, of Belle Vernon, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, Sept. 6, 2015, after a five-year battle with cancer. Born Aug. 28, 1953, he was the son of the late James and Stella (Antal) Trenk. He is survived by his bride of 40 years, Jody (McIntosh) Trenk; his daughters, Bethany Trenk (Alyia) and Richelle Romanchak (Joseph); his grandchildren, Elijah, Nina and Luke Romanchak; brother and sister-in-law, James and Michelle Trenk; nephews, James Trenk and Christopher (Lacey) Trenk; great-nephew, Landon Trenk; "sister and brother-in-law", Linda and Steve Zabawsky; and many loving family members and friends. His sister-in-law, Jill Godlewski, provided unfailing love and support during his illness. Rich graduated from Belle Vernon Area High School in 1971 and served in the Navy. He worked for Corning Glass as an electrician for 34 years. A scholar of the Civil War, he enjoyed visiting the historic battlefields of Gettysburg and was proud to earn his Association of Licensed Battlefield Guides certification. He gave selflessly to those in need of help, whether it was a neighbor or a stranger in crisis hundreds of miles away. He was a faithful member of Bible Alliance Church. He will be remembered for the fierce love and pride he felt for his family, his long colorful stories and dry wit, and wry grin. As Warren Zevon said, "And his hair was perfect." Friends will be welcomed 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 8, 2015, in the JAMES C. STUMP FUNERAL HOME INC., 580 Circle Drive, Belle Vernon/Rostraver Township (724-929-7934), www.jamesstumpfuneralhome.com. An additional viewing from 10 to 11 a.m. will be held at Bible Alliance Church, followed by a celebration of life at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 9, 2015, at 1300 Mt. Pleasant Road, West Newton, PA 15089, with Pastor Frank Todaro officiating. After the service, military honors will be conducted by the Navy. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: the Gettysburg Foundation, P.O. Box 4629, Gettysburg, PA 17325.