William J. Kazakewicz

William J. “Kaz” Kazakewicz, 86, beloved husband, father, and grandfather, died Monday, August 3, 2020, in his home after a lengthy illness. He was born February 25, 1934, in Washington, a son of the late Francis and Anna Pikunas Kazakewicz. Kaz was a 1952 graduate of Immaculate Conception High School. In November of 1952, he enlisted in the Navy, eventually serving as a radioman, third class, aboard the attack cargo ship, USS Thuban. He was awarded the Korean Service Medal, United National Medal and National Defense Service Medal and was honorably discharged in November of 1956. For 43 years Kaz was employed as a letter carrier for the United States Postal Service and took great pride in hard work and getting to know the people on his route. After retiring from USPS, he worked for several years at William G. Neal Funeral Homes, Ltd., as an attendant. Kaz was a member of St. Hilary Church and was an usher and volunteer for many years. He also belonged to the Pulaski Club, Polish Club and American Legion Edwin Scott Linton Post 175. An avid reader, he also enjoyed watching westerns, bowled in several leagues, and was a former coach for the 8th Ward Midget Football League. He dearly loved and was proud of his family, and his best days were spent with his children, grandchildren, and the family dogs. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him and will be remembered for always being there to lend a helping hand. Surviving is his loving wife of 48 years, Cecelia “Cookie” Popeck Kazakewicz. They were married in St. Hilary Church in May of 1972, by Father Robert George. Also surviving are two children, Valerie A. (Joel) Rankin and Stephen (Nicole) Kazakewicz; a sister, Catherine Kazakewicz; four grandchildren, Jacob and Avery Kazakewicz and Tessa and Dahlia Rankin; and several nieces and nephews. Deceased are siblings, Joseph Kazakewicz, Helen Sams, Marianne Kastner and Dorothy Rush. The Kazakewicz family would like to thank all of his healthcare providers for their excellent care of Kaz over the years, especially Amedisys Hospice most recently. Due to state-mandated Covid-19 restrictions, all services are private. Kaz will be laid to rest in National Cemetery of the Alleghenies, Cecil Township. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Citizens Library, 55 South College Street, Washington, PA 15301, or to Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh Foundation, PO Box 535240, Pittsburgh, PA 15253-9926.