Mathilda Chachko 1930-2026

Tillie was born Oct. 12, 1930, in Youngstown to the late Klement and Pauline Klein Smreck.

Tillie spent more than 50 years as a hairdresser. As the proud owner of Tillie’s Beauty Shop in Struthers, she created more than a salon — it became a gathering place where generations of clients became lifelong friends. She cherished the relationships she built and took great pride in helping others look and feel their best.

Her faith was the cornerstone of her life. Tillie was a devoted member of Infant Jesus of Prague Byzantine Catholic Parish and St. Peter and Paul Church in Boardman. She was an active member of the Altar and Rosary Society and was formerly involved with the Infant Jesus of Prague Guild and the Greek Catholic Union. She faithfully served the GCU Lodge 442 as both president and vice president, giving generously of her time and talents to her church and community.

Tillie also found great joy in gathering with friends through the many card clubs she belonged to over the years.

Left to cherish Tillie’s memory are her children, Thomas Chachko (Christina) of Poland, Elaine M. Chachko of Struthers and Marilyn Chachko of Scottsdale, Arizona; her grandsons, Michael Chachko (Kelly) and Matthew Chachko; and her beloved great-grandchildren, Zachary Chachko, Brooklyn Chachko, Kennedy Chachko and Emma Chachko, and a host of nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, Tillie was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Donald Chachko; her sisters, Martha Barnes, Magdaline Koziel and Margaret Swansiger; and her brother, Clement Smreck.

A Divine Liturgy of Christian Burial will be 11 a.m. Friday, July 10, 2026, at Infant Jesus of Prague Byzantine Catholic Church, 7754 South Ave., Boardman, OH 44512. Family and friends may pay their respects beforehand from 10 to 11 a.m. Friday, also at the church.

Tillie will be laid to rest in St. John Cemetery in Lowellville.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers at Aventura at the Assumption Village for the compassionate care and kindness they provided to Tillie.

Arrangements are being handled by Kirila Funeral Home in Struthers. To view this obituary or to send condolences to the family, please visit www.kirilafh.com.

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