Carmichaels, Pennsylvania – Stella Louise Sertich, a cherished member of the Carmichaels community, passed away peacefully in her home on Wednesday, September 25, 2024, at the age of 98.
Born on April 9, 1926, to Rose and Joseph Klimek, Stella devoted much of her life to community service and family.
She was married to Joseph Sertich Jr. for 68 years, and together they had four children: Joseph, John, Richard, and Patricia.
Stella and her husband operated Sertich’s General Store in Carmichaels from 1955 to 1969, and she served as a financial associate for Cumberland Township utilities and a secretary for the Carmichaels Cumberland Joint Sewage Authority for over 25 years.
Her commitment to the community extended beyond her professional life, as she was an active member of St. Hugh’s Roman Catholic Church, the Girl Scouts of America, the Rosary Society, and the Catholic Daughters of America, where she held the title of Grand Regent for the Dioceses of Pittsburgh and Greensburg in the 1970s.
Friends and family remember Stella as a loyal friend and a strong advocate for young people.
Mary Ann Bencze-Jack shared on social media, “Beautiful lady and she was my girl scout leader… rest in peace.”
Another community member, Shannon Henry, expressed her condolences: “Your grandma was a staple in our community that I remember growing up around. Much love to the whole family.”
Stella is survived by her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Her legacy of service and kindness will be fondly remembered by all who knew her.
Family and friends are invited to pay their respects at the Paul M. Lesako Funeral Home on Friday, September 27, 2024, from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m.
A prayer service will be held at 9 a.m. on Saturday, September 28, 2024, followed by a Funeral Mass at St. Hugh Roman Catholic Church at 10 a.m.
Stella’s dedication to her community and her loving spirit will be deeply missed by all.