Born November 13, 1917, in Ambridge, Pa, he was the son of the late John Kostyk Sr. and Anna Moroz Kostyk. John was a 1935 graduate of Ambridge Area High School. He worked briefly for Central Tube Co., AM/Byers Company and was later employed by the American Bride Company as a machinist for 43 years before his retirement in 1980. Mr. Kostyk proudly served his country in World War II in the 392nd SQDN 5th Air Force as sergeant from 1941 to 1946, in the battles and campaigns of South Philippines Liberation Luzon. He acquired decorations and citations of the Asiatic Pacific Theater Ribbon with two Bronze Service Stars, Philippine Liberation Medal, American Defense Ribbon, American Theater Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal and World War II Victory Medal. He was a lifelong, very dedicated and active member of SS. Peter and Paul Ukrainian Catholic Church in Ambridge, Pa. He served on the Parish Advisory Council and through the years was committed to entrustments placed in his care. He was a lifetime member of the Ambridge American Legion, Leetsdale VFW, UNA Branch 161, the Fraternal Order of Eagles and was a member of the Sewickley Senior Men's Club.
John's passions were God, his family, his church and the celebration of life. He enjoyed reading, gardening and sports and excelled in playing softball. He was also involved in organizing and coaching the parish elementary school's basketball team.
For many years, John lovingly cared for his aging father. He also touched many lives with his selflessness, kindness, understanding, sense of humor, and generous helping hand with an infectious, friendly smile. He will be dearly missed and lovingly remembered.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his stepmothers, Anna Wolosonovich Kostyk and Anastasia Wolosonovich Kostyk and his brother, Michael Kostyk.
Surviving are his loving wife of 36 years, Catherine Sema Kostyk; sisters and brothers, Mary Kostyk Ferrante of Phoenix, Ariz., Helen Kostyk Krivan (Steve) of Grand Rivers, Ky., Peter Kostyk of Glendale, Ariz., Joseph Kostyk (Roseanne) of Hacienda Heights, Calif.; sisters-in-law, Patricia Janicki Kostyk of Chicago, Ill. and numerous nieces and nephews.
Friends are invited to visit the family on Friday, February 17, 2017 from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. in the KASPER-HAHN FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES, INC., 547 Eighth St., Ambridge, (724-266-2549). Parastas service will be held on Friday at 6 p.m. in the funeral home. A divine liturgy and service will be held on Saturday at 10:30 a.m. in SS. Peter and Paul Ukrainian Catholic Church, 404 6th Street, Ambridge, Pa., with his pastor, the Rev. Michael Polosky officiating.
Interment with full military honors will follow in SS. Peter and Paul Cemetery.
Cathy would like to extend her most sincere gratitude and thanks to Dr. Eles and Dr. Chris T. O'Donnell. Finally, she would like to single out Allegheny Health Network Hospice staff who did a phenomenal job with their thoughtful concern and compassionate care they so lovingly provided in the last weeks of John's life.
In lieu of flowers, anyone wishing to honor John's memory may consider contributions to SS. Peter and Paul Ukrainian Catholic Church, 404 6th Street, Ambridge, PA 15003.