Elizabeth Harrigal

HARRIGAL – Elizabeth “Betty,” 93, Cambria Care Center, longtime resident of Beaverdale, died peacefully surrounded by her loving family Feb. 1, 2016, following a courageous four year struggle with Lewy Body Dementia. Born Aug. 21, 1922, in Portage, daughter of Michael and Elizabeth (Wasko) Vasas. Preceded in death by parents; husband, Andrew Harrigal, who died Dec. 26, 1964; beloved son, Michael A., who died July 5, 1970; sisters, Margaret Hallahan and Arlene Vasas; and brothers, Michael, Charles “Chick,” Joseph and John Vasas. Survived by daughter, Marcella, wife of Douglas W. Roxby, Beaverdale; granddaughter, Sherri, wife of Daniel Slavick, Richland; and grandson, Mark, married to Kristy (Wyles), Imler; great-grandchildren, Jordan and Joshua Slavick and Lauren Roxby; sister, Melvina Maus, N.J.; brothers, George, Portage; and Julius “Duke,” Pottstown; and numerous nieces and nephews. Betty was a member of St. Mary’s Byzantine Catholic Church, Beaverdale. She was a graduate of Portage Township High School Class of 1940. From an early age, she formed a strong work ethic and perseverance. Over the years, she held several jobs having worked at Kranzler’s Hardware, Puritan Foundation and Bali Bra. After 25 years of service, she retired at the age of 82 from the Forest Hills School District, where she enjoyed working in the cafeteria. Betty cherished her grandchildren, adored her great-grandchildren and always looked forward to family gatherings. She was a good cook, enjoyed sewing and loved shopping at local department stores. Friends will be received from 2 to 6 p.m. Wednesday at Charles O. Dimond Funeral Home Inc., South Fork, where Panachida will be sung at 6 p.m. A brief service will be held at the funeral home at 9:45 a.m. Thursday, followed by Divine Liturgy at 10:30 a.m. at SS. Peter & Paul Byzantine Catholic Church, Portage, the Rev. Father James Spontak, celebrant. Committal, St. Mary’s Cemetery, Beaverdale. The family is especially thankful to the second-floor staff at Cambria Care Center for the kind and compassionate care they gave her. As an expression of sympathy, please consider memorial donations to the Lewy Body Dementia Association, 912 Killian Hill Road, S.W. Lilburn, Ga. 30047 or St. Mary’s Byzantine Catholic Church c/o SS. Peter & Paul Byzantine Church, 143 Church Road, Portage, Pa. 15946. ( www.DimondFuneralHome.com )