Stephen John Pekich, 56, of Ligonier, passed away on June 24, 2020 at Forbes Hospital, Monroeville, after a brief, but courageous battle with cancer. Stephen was born on June 9, 1964 in Alton, Ill to George S and Eleanor R (Grech) Pekich. He was a 1982 graduate of Ligonier Valley High School, where he was voted Class Clown by his peers. Anyone who knew or crossed paths with Steve knew his quick wit and his love for silly stories and jokes. Steve had a huge heart and always wanted to hear people laugh and see them smile.
Steve was also a lifelong fan of the Pittsburgh Penguins, the Oakland Raiders, and Notre Dame football. College football Saturday's will never be the same. Additionally, he was a huge lover of all animals from his dogs to stray cats to the many types of wildlife that called the Pekich's yard home.
Steve is survived by his parents, Eleanor and George Pekich; a sister Kimberly (Jones) of Florida; 4 nephews : Dominick, Dalton, Braedan and Carter, whom he adored; his Aunt Evelyn Orlosky, and cousins Lynne, John, Melissa and Amy; in addition to numerous Aunts, Uncles and cousins.
He is preceded in death by an infant sister, Kathleen, and a brother, George; maternal grandparents Andrew and Veronica Grech, paternal grandparents Stanley and Margie Pekich; as well as family dogs Caesar and Pooch.
Friends will be received Saturday, June 27, from 4 to 6pm with a service starting at 6, in the McCabe Funeral Home, 144 East Main St. Ligonier.
The family would like to thank the staff of the oncology department at Forbes Hospital, Mutual Aid Ambulance Service, and Phil Bourque from the Penguins (Steve's favorite player), who graciously spent time with Steve in his final days. On line condolences may be made at mccabefuneralhomespa.com