Paul W. Piatek

Paul W. Piatek, 79, Johnstown, passed away June 21, 2021, at his home in Geistown (Pa). Born January 6, 1942, in Windber (Pa), son of the late Paul F. and Sophie (McKuskie) Piatek. Preceded in death by his parents and brother, Donald Piatek. Survived by his wife, Nancy (Kelly), children Kelly Hedman, Joseph Piatek, Susan Smith, wife of James, and Shawn Piatek, husband of Theresa (Harodetsky). Also survived by grandchildren Paul E. Piatek, Cassandra Smith, Jolynda Dibert (Piatek), wife of Tyler, Zach Smith, Jared Piatek, Nick Piatek, Reese Koback and Cameron Koback; Great Grandchildren Jason, Elijah, Daniel, Nova and Mea. Also survived by brother, John (Eva); and sister, Betty Bingham. Paul W. carried many titles during his life. He was the head of the respiratory therapy department at Miner's Hospital of Northern Cambria for over 30 years. He served in the U.S. Navy as a Corpsman and later in the same capacity in the Pennsylvania National Guard. He was honorably discharged from both. At other times he was a Teamster, a softball coach in Carrolltown (his home for roughly 30 years), a football player, a beloved friend and often the life of the party. But the titles he cherished most were that of husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He and Nancy were married for over 54 years. His children could always expect him to be by their side. He was "Pop Pop" to his grandchildren. And his great-grandchildren introduced new energy into his life over the past decade. His family is grateful for more than two bonus decades they were able to enjoy with him after beating stage three colon cancer in the late 1990s. We will always remember his "trick" teeth, that he wasn't winking at you, that he "don't know nothin', E-E,E" and to always watch out for the deer, giraffes and zebras. Paul W. was a dedicated parishioner of St. Benedict's Catholic Church in Geistown. In lieu of flowers, the family is asking for donations in his memory be made to Laurel Highlands Free and Charitable Medical Clinic or St. Benedict's Catholic Church. Friends received 4-7PM Thursday at Henderson Funeral Home-East Hills, 2503 Bedford St, where Vigil for the Deceased will be held. Masks are required by those attending. Funeral Mass will be held Friday at 10:30AM at St. Benedict Church with Father David Peles as celebrant. Military rite will be conducted by Windber Post 4795 VFW Ritual Team immediately following the mass.

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