Elizabeth C. Bednar 1932-2024

Elizabeth was born Oct. 11, 1932, in Struthers, a daughter of John and Mary Helen Jakabcin.

Elizabeth was a 1950 graduate of Hubbard High School and graduated from Choffin School of Practical Nursing in 1974, at the age of 41, and received the Outstanding Nurse Award of her graduating class, as awarded by her nursing instructors. She then obtained her pharmacology certificate in 1975 and achieved the second-highest score on the state board exam.

She worked for over 18 years in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) at St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital, retiring after 18 years of service. As a nurse, she touched many people’s lives who benefited from her care and compassion. She was also a devoted mother to her family, who would not have achieved their dreams without her exceptional love, encouragement and support. She had many talents and self-taught skills, loved animals,and enjoyed gardening and baking.

She leaves behind to forever cherish her memory, daughters Dr. Marlene Bednar, MD, of Boardman, who was also her caregiver and with whom she lived, and Dr. Monica Berninghaus, DDS, of Silverdale, Washington; son, Albert J. Bednar (Carol) of Boardman: grandchildren, Ashley Berninghaus, PhD (Ross) of Arvada, Colorado, Matthew Berninghaus (Amanda) of Lakewood, Colorado; and other nieces and nephews; and her beloved cats, Benny and Rusty.

Besides her parents, she was predeceased by five brothers, Stephen, John, Valent and Michael Tarajcak, and Joseph Jacobson; three sisters, Mary Carter, Ann Anderson and Frances Loncar; and her remaining sister, Eleanor Rigelsky.

Elizabeth was a member of St. Matthias Church (Our Lady of Sorrows) and was a devout Christian woman.

Per wishes of the deceased, there will be no calling hours. A private funeral service will be held at St. John the Baptist Catholic Cemetery Chapel, Lowellville, followed by Christian burial. At a later date, a memorial church service at St. Matthias Church, Youngstown, will be held to celebrate her life.

In lieu of flowers, charitable contributions may be made in Elizabeth’s name to Animal Charity of Boardman, 4140 Market S., Boardman, OH 44512.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Kirila Funeral Home, 258 Poland Ave., Struthers. Family and friends may visit kirilafh.com to view this obituary and send condolences to Elizabeth’s family.

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