Catherine M. Sopkovich 1943-2026

She was born Nov. 1, 1943, in Struthers, daughter of the late John and Mary Vrankovich Matijasic of Struthers.

After graduating from Struthers High School, Catherine worked as a seamstress for Moyer Company in Youngstown and later worked in the restaurant at Fonderlac Country Club (currently known as The Lake Club).

Catherine attended St. Nicholas Roman Catholic Church in Struthers before marriage, then attended St. Mary Byzantine Catholic Church in Youngstown, where she volunteered.

Catherine was a truly selfless person. She became a loving, full-time caregiver to her mother-in-law and father-in-law for several years.

In her free time, Catherine enjoyed going to local bingo games, taking vacations to casinos and visiting family around the country. Family gatherings were always lively events, full of laughter, and usually ending with card games.

A beloved wife and mother, Catherine is survived by her daughter, Valerie (Raymond) Wyant; and sons, Joseph J. Sopkovich III and Jon Sopkovich; along with several nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, Catherine was preceded in death by her husband of 61 years, Joseph J. Sopkovich Jr.; brothers, Joseph, John (Virginia) and Robert (Jean) Matijasic; and sisters, Agnes Meluch and Marie (Geno) DeMarco. She was also preceded in death by her loving brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Eugene and Katherine Pastor.

While she loved and appreciated all who knew her, per Catherine’s wishes, there are no calling hours or services planned.

The family would like to thank the staff at Maplecrest Nursing Home in Struthers, as well as the staff at St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital, for their dedication, care and compassion throughout Catherine’s illnesses.

To view this obituary or to send condolences to the family, visit www.kirilafh.com.

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