Alexander (Alex) J. Semchak

Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory

Obituaries | The Tube City Almanac | February 06, 2018

Alexander (Alex) J. Semchak, 96, of Greenock, Elizabeth Township, passed away peacefully on February 5, 2018 surrounded by his beloved son, daughter, and close family friends. He was born on June 5, 1921 in McKeesport, and was the son of the late Georgius and Maria (Cybak) Semchak. Alex, a WWII Veteran, proudly served his country as a Captain in the US Army Signal Corps. His distinguished military service was acknowledged by the many commendations he received including the following: American Campaign Medal-WWII, American Defense Medal with Bronze Star-WWII, Army Good Conduct Medal with Bronze Two Knot Device, European-African Middle Eastern Campaign Medal with Bronze Star, WWII Victory Medal, and the Army Presidential Unit Citation. It was during his 4 year tour of duty in Europe that he met and married the love of his life, Valerie (Ludgate) Semchak. Alex was well known due to his membership in numerous social clubs including the following: White Oak American Legion Post 701, Elizabeth Township Ex-Serviceman's Association in Boston, Sutersville Moose Lodge 1358, Order of the Owls Nest 1649, Buena Vista Volunteer Fire Co, Croation Club and Croation Men's Club Lodge 146 in Versailles, 11th Ward Welfare Association in McKeesport and the WMBU in Blythedale.

Alex was preceded in death by his loving wife of 68 years, Valerie Semchak.  He is survived by his son, Brian Semchak; his daughter, Janet Semchak; and his granddaughter, Christa Semchak. In addition, he is survived by his sister, Katherine (Kash) Mills of Battleground, WA, nieces and nephews. In addition to his wife and parents,  Alex was preceded in death by his brother, George Semchak, sisters, Anne Chernega, Helen Samios, and Dorothy Cramer. Friends are welcome Thursday, February 8 from 7:00 - 9:00 pm at the Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 6028 Smithfield Street, Boston, Elizabeth Twp., (412) 751-5000 Drew J. Gilbert, Director. Funeral Service will be held Friday, February 9, at 11:00 am in the Funeral Home chapel.  Burial with Military Honors will follow at Mount Vernon Cemetery, Elizabeth Twp.   In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions may be made to the Central Food Pantry of Elizabeth Twp. Box 47 Buena Vista, PA 15018. Condolences may be made at Gilbertfuneralhomeandcrematory.com

Originally published February 06, 2018.

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