Michaelene "Mick" Szymkowiak

            Michaelene “Mick” Szymkowiak, 71, passed on June 15th 2023 at her home in Aliquippa, PA. She was born February 12, 1952 to the late Stephen and Edna Szymkowiak (Felsman). Michaelene spent most of her life in Aliquippa, and was of Catholic faith. Michaelene most of all enjoyed her daily talks and frequent visits with her sister Susan. They shared a bond unlike any other, and were each other’s most happy companions. Michaelene also loved her fast car rides and oldies music with her brother-in-law, Nick during their travels to visit family.

            She treasured family visits, phone calls, and facetimes from her nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, as well as great-great nieces and nephews. They brought her joy and happiness. Mick’s housemates and best friends Teenie and Mia, have resided with her for decades. They enjoyed dances, shopping, movies, attending parties, and dressing up for Halloween. They were each others’ support system, and some referred to them as the “Housewives of Brodhead” where they resided. Mick was blessed to have great, loving and compassionate caretakers throughout her years. They were a great blessing to the family, knowing that she was happy and lived her life to the fullest. We know she is watching over them and saying “Thank you for taking such great care of me”, and will be watching over them every day. Her caretakers on Brodhead through the Verland Organization have been a big part of our family, and Mick was who she was because of them.

            She is survived by her nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews, great great nieces and nephews, Her roommates and second family-Mia, Teenie, and all of the staff of Verland Housing. Besides her parents, Michaelene was preceded in death by her loving sister Susan Petrishen, brother Larry, brother-in-law Nick Petrishen, and niece Karen.

            Visitation will be held Tuesday, June 20th from 1-5 PM at Duster Funeral & Cremation Services, Inc. 347 East 10th Ave, Tarentum (724) 224-1526. A service will be held during the visitation, with private burial to follow on Thursday at St. Ladislaus Cemetery in Natrona Heights.

            In lieu of flowers, family requests donations be made to Michele Petrishen, so that funds will be directed to Michaelene’s group home. VISIT: DusterFH.com