Obituary

GRUSS – Stephen Paul Sr., 81, South Fork, died Feb. 14, 2011, at home, surrounded by his loving family. Born Aug. 8, 1929, in Benscreek, Portage Township, son of the late Andrew and Elizabeth (Lesko) Gruss. Preceded in death by infant daughter; infant great-granddaughter, Gracie; sister, Ann; and infant brother, Gerald.

Survived by loving wife, Bridget (Beck), with death ending a marriage union of 57 years; and children, Stephen Paul Jr., David (Vickie), Susan Dick (Wallace), Patrick (Denise), Lisa Penatzer (Rick), James (Janette), Thomas (Kathi) and Ronald (Shannon).

Also survived by siblings, Mary, Jenny (George Rohaly), Joseph, Andrew (Pauline Branas), Vern (Mort), Elizabeth (Bill Kuchera), John (Helen), Margaret (John Trusik) and Della (Nealen). Also survived by 21 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

Steve was a Korean War veteran. He worked in the coal mines for several years. He retired from Bethlehem Steel Corp. in 1982 after 32 years of service. He also was a self-employed TV repairman.

Steve was passionate about polka music and spent many weekends “cutting the rug.” He also was deeply passionate about being surrounded by his grandchildren and great-grandchildren and was proudly known as “Pappy Tootsie-Roll.”

At the request of the deceased, there will be no viewing. Friends are invited to offer condolences to the family from 10 a.m. until time of Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. Saturday at Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church, South Fork, Father Robert Reese, celebrating. Veterans service by local veterans will be held immediately following Mass. Inurnment will be at the family’s convenience.

In lieu of flowers, family requests donations to Windber Hospice or St. Michael’s Fire Department in memory of Steve.

Arrangements in care of Hindman Funeral Homes & Crematory Inc., 1521 Frankstown Road, an exclusive provider of veterans and family memorial care.

Condolences may be expressed at www.hindmanfuneralhomes.com.