Obituary of Eleanor K. Palchak

Eleanor K. Palchak, age 94, of Vernon Hills, IL, formerly of Donora died Wednesday, February 7, 2018, at Victory Centre in Vernon Hills, IL. 

She was born May 23, 1923 the daughter of the late John and late Anna Kenda.

Eleanor was a member of the Our Lady of the Valley Church in Donora. She was a choir member at the former St. Dominic Church and also at St. Michael Byzantine Rite Catholic Church.

Eleanor was the Religous Education Coordinator for many years at St. Dominic Church and later Our Lady of the Valley Church. She was a tireless volunteer for church and community events. A 1941 graduate of Donora High School she served on the reunion committee. As an officer of the former Donora Lodge of the GCU she served in many capacities over the years. She loved to crochet blankets for her family and for pediatric patients.

In addition to her parents, Eleanor was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Palchak in 2009 and a brother Albert Kenda.

Survivors include her three daughters, Catherine (John) Shandor of Perryopolis, PA, Theresa (Dennis) Durko of Valparaiso, IN, and Christine (Kenneth) Shields of Libertyville, IL; a son, Alan Palchak of Hilton Head, SC; also eight grandchildren and five great grandchildren.

Arrangements are being handled by McMurrough Funeral Chapel (847) 362-2626. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated at Our Lady of the Valley Church in Donora at 10:00 AM, Tuesday, February 20, 2018, with Rev. Fr. Pierre M. Falkenhan as celebrant. All family and friends wishing to celebrate Eleanor's life are asked to arrive at the church by 9:30 AM.

Interment will follow in St. Michael Cemetery, Donora, PA.

The family suggests that Memorial Contributions in Eleanor's name may be made to Our Lady of the Valley Church, 1 Park manor Road, Donora, PA 15033 or St. Michael Byzantine Rite Catholic Church, 511 Murray Avenue, Donora, PA 15033.