Lena R. “Benedict” Maruhnich, 99, of Aliquippa passed away suddenly, quietly, and peacefully on March 19, 2024.
She was born in Struthers, Ohio on March 5, 1925, and was the last surviving child of the late Andrew and Catherine (Viglotti) Benedict.
Lena was preceded in death by her beloved husband, John “Zoo” Maruhnich, Five brothers: Derry, Mark, Andy, Benny, and Damon. Two sisters: Lucille and Mary and her cherished granddaughter, Nicole Maruhnich. Two brothers-in-law: George and Michael Maruhnich and a sister-in-law: Maragaret Raychevich.
Lena was a faithful member of St. George Byzantine Catholic Church, Aliquippa. Over the years, she was an active volunteer in various functions held at the church. Lena spent time working at bake sales, setting-up for weddings, and making homemade pierogies.
She was an avid fan of the Pittsburgh Pirates and the Steelers. She and her son yearly traveled to Bradenton, Florida to watch the Pirates at spring training. And, although slowly, she was on her way to becoming a fan of the Pittsburgh Penguins but was not quite there yet. She loved “Pittsburgh” and where she lived … in Hopewell and Aliquippa. She was proud of the place she called home and everything that represents what it is: hardworking, honest, multicultural, vibrant with many nationalities and cultures, fun-loving, sports-minded, family-oriented, and faithful to God and his promise for us.
She was a loving mother, grandmother, and great grandmother and she treasured the time she spent with her family, and they treasured her just as much.
Lena is survived by her devoted and loving family. A son and daughter-in-law: Nick and Lynda Maruhnich, a daughter and son-in-law: Cathie and Domenic Leone. Six grandchildren who she was so proud of: Stefanie, Lauren, Samantha, Roxanne, Anthony, and Lauren. Lena was blessed with twelve great grandchildren: Chole, Evan, Maddox, Lorenzo, Isla, Milania, Bailee, Bently, Aubrey, Charlie, Alex, and Gabby. Her niece Ann Mendicino and additional nieces and nephews and members of the Maruhnich family: Nick Jr., Eddie and Isabelle, Josephine, and the children of the family: Georgie, David, Dean, Veronica, Julie, Patricia, Pam, Sharon and Mark.
Visitation will be Friday from 4-7 pm in the Anthony Mastrofrancesco Funeral Home Inc. 2026 McMinn Street, Aliquippa, 724-375-0496. Family and friends are welcome to attend a Parastas service on Saturday at 10:00 am with Father Christiaan Kappes at St. George Byzantine Church, Aliquippa. Please meet at the church.
Private Interment will follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery.