Osana “Suna” Cokrlic (1950-2025)

Osana “Suna” Cokrlic, 74, passed away on February 3rd, 2025. She passed away suddenly yet peacefully in her own home in her normal chair at the end of a normal day shared in the course of a lifelong conversation with her extremely beloved and attentive husband, Milen Cokrlic, Jr.

She was born in Sewickley on November 17th, 1950. She was the oldest daughter of Karol and Helena Suszynsky and was preceded in death by her siblings, Peter, Paul and Leski and her sister-in-law, Ylona Cokrlic. She is survived by her siblings Mary (married to Mark Zeleny), Sylvia (married to Donald Campilongo) and Karol.

She is leaving behind a legacy of love that will continue to inspire those who knew her. Osana’s life journey was a testament to unwavering commitment to her family as well as gratitude for and loyalty to her friends. Her early years in Conway strengthened her in a small town community which she deeply appreciated as she fondly looked back on a childhood spent helping her Ukrainian parents to navigate the hardships of life in USA after being in the Labor Camps of World War Two.

In 1970, Osana married the love of her life Milen Cokrlic, Jr. after his service as a Marine in the Vietnam War; they raised their cherished children Michelle (married to Michael Denk) and Milen III in New Sewickley Township surrounded by generous friends like Debbie DeDominicus and Kathy & John Feher, as well as caring neighbors like The Padezanin family and The Penczak family as well as lifelong friends like Ray Katekovich and Chris Celio (her maid of honor). Her sister-in-law Elaine Shawl and far-away neighbor Mutzie Padezanin had meaningful phone visits with her regularly. She loved hearing from cousin Donna Katynski Smelko as well as her beautiful adult nephews and nieces who cared deeply about her and always made time to visit when they were in the area.

Osana’s adult life was challenged by a progressive painful and crippling disease that affected her entire right side. At the same time, her devotion to studying The Bible fortified her ever-sharp mind and exceptionally strong spirit. Her constant admiration and effective prayers for her only grandchild, Andrew Thieme Denk, who kept her optimistic about the future. This year, she was particularly excited to know wholeheartedly that Andrew is prepared to fly like a straight arrow as he plans to attend college this autumn. From a young age, Andrew enjoyed pretending to be a doctor and / or patient for hours with his Osana. Andrew inherited his maternal grandmother’s quick wit, expressive openness, keen observation skills and innate compassion.

She was also a 1968 graduate of Freedom High School and later, as an adult, pursued her Associate Degree.

Osana is known by many to be extremely intelligent and a life-long learner yet those who know her closest can attest that the most important thing to her was the message of reconciliation to Our Creator which is the essence of The Gospel of Jesus Christ. In conversations with her loved ones, she exhorted all toward the grace gift that we all have because of what Christ accomplished at the cross. She lived a life that exhibited discernment yet moreover a spirit of forgiveness and deep trust in her eternal life based on her personal relationship with The Holy Spirit.

She also leaves behind two adored grand-dogs (River and Mac) which each gave her much cheer to share with others as well as a continual appreciation for God’s creation and for how He works all things together for the good for those who love Him.

Osana’s immediate family will hold a small private viewing and service. Interment will follow at the Cemetery of the Alleghenies. We ask that in honor of our mourning, please personally read the Gospel of John or listen to it being read aloud on audio so that you will enjoy being acquainted with Jesus Christ and then know that we do not grieve without inexpressible hope and a peace that surpasses all understanding. Arrangements are being entrusted to the William Murphy Funeral Home, Inc., 349 Adams Street, Rochester.