Catherine F. Gierchak 1941-2026

She was born March 11, 1941, in Youngstown, a daughter of Joseph Gierchak and the former Angela Siranovic.

A graduate of Ursuline High School in 1959, she continued her studies at Youngstown State University, where she earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in education.

Her 46-year teaching career began at St. Peter and Paul School and continued at Holy Family School until her retirement in 2006. During her career, she was honored with the prestigious Golden Apple Award.

Catherine was a lifelong member of St. Peter and Paul Croatian Church in Youngstown. She was an active and proud member of the Daughters of St. Peter and Paul and belonged to the Ohio DKG Professional Teachers Group.

Beyond the classroom, she found joy in her local crochet groups. In her free time she enjoyed making afghans for veterans, baby blankets and caps. She enjoyed day trips in the car, weekend trips to Niagara Falls and summer vacations at Lake Erie.

Catherine is survived by her sister, Jo Ann (James) Colaluca; nephews, Mark (Terri) Colaluca, Joseph (Danielle) Colaluca and Michael (Brittney) Colaluca; and seven great-nieces and great-nephews, Madeline, Wyatt, Dominic, Emma, John, Daisy and Stella.

In addition to her parents, Catherine was preceded in death by her sister, Mary Ann Gierchak.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 11 a.m. Wednesday, April 15, 2026, at St. Peter and Paul Church in Youngstown.

Interment will be in Calvary Cemetery.

Arrangements are entrusted to the care of Higgins-Reardon Funeral Homes, Poland Chapel.

Family and friends are invited to visit www.higgins-reardon.com to share memories and condolences.

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