Walter M. Ilko (1929-2024)

Walter Ilko, 94, of Harmony Township, passed away at home on October 12, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on November 26, 1929, in Ambridge, the son of the late Stephen and Pauline Svarich Ilko. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister Helen Stranko, and brother Steve Ilko. He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Florence, his sons, Myron Ilko, David (Amy) Ilko, and Paul (Nicole) Ilko, his two granddaughters, Jaina and Mara Ilko and numerous nieces and nephews. Walter was a 1947 graduate of Ambridge High School.  He served in the United States Army, 45th Infantry, 45th Signal Company, and is a veteran of the Korean War (’51-53) where he was an ARCOM recipient for valor. He attended the University of Pittsburgh, Clarion State Teacher’s College, and Geneva College. He worked for over 30 years at H.H. Robertson Company until his retirement. He was also a life-long, faithful member of Saints Peter and Paul Ukrainian Byzantine Catholic Church in Ambridge. Family and friends will be received on Tuesday, October 15th from 6-8 P.M. in the John Syka Funeral Home, 833 Kennedy Drive, Ambridge, where a prayer service will be held on Wednesday, October 16th at 11 A.M., followed by a Divine Liturgy at 11:30 A.M. in Saints Peter and Paul Ukranian Catholic Church in Ambridge.  Interment will follow in Saints Peter & Paul Cemetery.