of Carnegie, passed away peacefully on May 3, 2024, at the age of 87. Irene was the beloved wife of the late Russell Sekelik and the cherished mother of Deborah Meta (Tony), David (Beth), Daniel (Grace), Donald (Beth), and Douglas. She was the loving grandmother of Amanda Haas (Adam), Jamie Cashatt (Mitch), Sarah Sekelik, Daniel Sekelik, Lauren Macoskey (Jonathan), and Aiden Sekelik, and the proud great-grandmother of Charlotte, Luke, Eli, and Milo. Additionally survived by sisters Mary Cairns, JoAnne Bokulich, Veronica (Richard) Antoszeski, as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and countless dear friends. She was predeceased by her sister Patricia Kvak and brothers-in-law George Kvak and Wilfred Cairns.

Irene was born on September 22nd, 1936, in Bulger, PA as the eldest of five daughters to Joseph and Mary (Tizik) Bokulich, proprietors of the Shady Lane dance hall. A 1954 graduate of Burgettstown’s Union High, Irene embarked on her professional career as a secretary at the Duquesne University Alumni Office.

In July 1957, Irene met her future husband, Russell, becoming his dance partner for life. They exchanged vows on July 25th, 1959, at St. Ann’s Catholic Church, beginning a union that would span over four decades and bless them with a beautiful family.

Together, Irene and Russell raised their five children in Collier Township’s Cubbage Hill, fostering a loving home filled with laughter and countless memories. Family vacations to Ocean City, MD were an annual highlight, creating traditions and lasting bonds that will continue to hold strong.

Retirement from Hills Department store, and particularly the loss of her beloved husband led to the next chapter of her life at Cloverleaf Estates West. Embracing her new community wholeheartedly, she delivered Hot Off the Press newspapers, participated in the weekly Card Club, traveled on numerous bus trips, and forged deep relationships along the way, especially with dear friend the late Richard Lornier.

An active member of St. Luke’s Christian Mothers, Irene lived her Catholic faith brightening the days of shut-ins at local nursing homes, and volunteering at the Carnegie Historical Society. Her varied interests ranged from gardening and making Easter chocolates, to indulging in the occasional casino visit, while also showing unwavering support for her Pittsburgh Pirates.

Above all, Irene cherished the simple moments spent with her loved ones, whether it be the multiple birthday dinners with her mother and sisters, rocking on the front porch listening to the ballgame, gathering around the card table for a spirited game of 500, or relishing in the holiday pleasures of three generations of descendants.

Irene Sekelik will be deeply missed but forever remembered for her enduring legacy of motherly warmth, neighborly kindness, and unconquerable spirit.

In honoring Irene's memory, her family invites friends and loved ones to join them in celebrating her life at SZAFRANSKI-EBERLEIN FUNERAL HOME, INC. on Thursday, May 9, 2024, from 2-8 PM at 101 Third Street, Carnegie. The rosary will be said at the funeral home during visitation at 3:30pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held in St. Raphael the Archangel Parish, St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church on Friday, May 10, 2024, at 11AM. Following Mass, Irene will be laid to rest next to her husband, Russell, in Mount Olivet Cemetery.

www.szafranski-eberleinfuneralhome.com (412)276-1107