Peter J. Hritsko, Sr., 76, Narrow Gauge Engineer

He was born on May 16, 1925 in Lorain, and graduated from Lorain High School in 1943-B. He served as a private first class in the Army during World War II, in the campaigns of the Rhineland and Central Europe. He received the combat infantry badge, American Theater Ribbon with Two Bronze Stars, and the Victory Medal.

He was a narrow gauge engineer in the Lorain Works, U.S. Steel, retiring in 1982 with over 39 years of service. He was a member of the United Steelworkers Local 1104 and Golden Age Pensioners Club, where he served as sergeant-at-arms.

He was a member of SS. Peter and Paul Orthodox Church, where he served on the parish council, and was a member of the parish Men's Club. He also worked as the church custodian for five years.

He was a life member of Louis Paul Proy Chapter 20 of the Disabled American Veterans and also belonged to the World War II Trailblazers.

Surviving is his wife of 47 years, Rosemary (nee Gallam), sons: Peter, Jr. and Ronald, both of Vermilion; three grandsons; his mother: Ann (nee Ksenic) of Lorain; brothers: Michael of Fairlawn, OH and Robert of Lorain. He was preceded in death by his father, Peter, in 1979 and a brother James in 1967.

The family will receive friends on Tuesday, July 17, 2001 from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. in the Dovin Funeral Home, 2701 Elyria Avenue, Lorain where a Parastas service will be held at 7:30 p.m.

Friends may call on Wednesday, July 18, 2001 from 9:00 a.m. until time of services at 10:00 a.m. in SS. Peter and Paul Orthodox Church, East 32nd St. and Gary Ave., Lorain. Rev. Basil Stoyka, archpriest and pastor, will officiate. Burial will be n Elmwood Cemetery. Disabled American Veterans Louis Paul Proy Chapter 20 will conduct full military honors.