Maria Koval-Melnykovich 1934-2026

Maria was born Nov. 11, 1934, in Ukraine, a daughter of the late John and Anna Hyt. She came to the United States and the Youngstown area in the early 1990s, where she made her home and built a life centered on faith and family.

She dedicated 20 years of service working in the kitchen at Omni West before retiring.

Maria was a devoted member of Sts. Peter and Paul Ukrainian Orthodox Church, where she generously volunteered her time for many parish activities. She was especially known for her involvement in pyrohy, kolachi and stuffed cabbage fundraisers, along with numerous other church functions.

She enjoyed gardening and took great pride in her flowers, as well as growing tomatoes and cucumbers. Maria also loved cooking, but above all, she cherished the time she spent with her family.

Maria leaves to forever cherish her memory, her son, Volodymyr (Oksana) Koval of Austintown; her daughter, Maria (Pavlo) Savka of North Royalton; five grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; her stepchildren, Ben (Patty) Melnykovich of Lake Milton and George (Caroline) Melnykovich of Leesburg, Virginia; and many extended family members.

Maria was preceded in death by her first husband, Mykola Koval; her second husband, Wasyl “William” Melnykovich; her brother, Petro Hyt; and her stepson, Russell Melnykovich.

Family and friends may gather to pay respects 10 to 11 a.m. Friday, Jan. 23, 2026, at Sts. Peter and Paul Ukrainian Orthodox Church, 1025 N. Belle Vista Ave., Youngstown, where a funeral service will be held at 11 a.m.

Interment will follow in Sts. Peter and Paul Parish Cemetery.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Kinnick Funeral Home in Youngstown. Visit kinnickfuneralhome.com to send condolences to Maria’s family.

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