Edward Eugene Olesh
Edward Eugene Olesh, 84, of Hopwood, Pa., died peacefully at home, surrounded by his loving family on Tuesday, September 3, 2013. He was born on August 15, 1929 in Smock, Pa., son of the late Ignatius and Mary Agnes (Tokish) Olesh. His brother, Joseph Matthew Olesh also preceded him in death.
He was the former owner and President of WPQR FM Radio, and well known musician and band leader of ‘The Starlighters’ playing throughout Southwestern Pennsylvania. He played the accordion in many bands throughout PA and WV; and gave private accordion lessons in Hopwood for many years.
Edward graduated as a Certified Radio Management Consultant, working with various upstart radio stations throughout the eastern United States. He got his start in radio as a salesperson at WCVI in Connellsville, PA. He was also Staff Manager for Baltimore Life Insurance.
During the Korean War he proudly served his country as a Combat Engineer with the United States Army at the rank of Corporal. During that time he was injured and hospitalized in a British Hospital, then served with Special Services, and also was a member of the US Army Band.
He was a member of St. Mary (Nativity) Roman Catholic Church where he served as an Usher for many years. Active in many service organizations, Edward was a member of the Catholic Charities Board of Directors for 10 years, member American Heart Association and Board of Directors, Uniontown Chamber of Commerce, AMVETS Post 103, American Legion Post 51, VFW, and the Uniontown Rotary Club.
Edward was a devoted husband, father, grand father, and great grandfather. He loved spending time with his family, and was so very proud of his children and grandchildren. He enjoyed life, traveling in his RV, camping, hunting, fishing, and loved gadgets.
Left to cherish his memory is his beloved wife of 59 years, Anna Mary (Weakland) Olesh; their children, Diane (Olesh) Gingerich and husband Michael of State College, PA; Trina Rose (Olesh) Britcher and husband John of Bridgeport WV; Edward E. Olesh, II. and wife Jill (Large) Olesh of Ohiopyle, PA; grandchildren, Maria Gingerich, Abe Gingerich and Julie; Monica Olivarez and husband Joseph; and Cecelia Gingerich; Sarah Britcher, Matthew Britcher, and Gabriel Britcher; and Edward E. Olesh, III. and wife Erienne; and great grandchildren, Page and Ignatius Gingerich.
Friends will be received at the STEPHEN R. HAKY FUNERAL HOME, INC., 603 N. Gallatin Ave. Ext., Uniontown PA, today, Friday, from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m.; and Saturday, September 7, until 9:30 a.m. when Prayers of Transfer will be said.
The Funeral Mass will follow at 10 a.m. in St. Mary (Nativity) Roman Catholic Church, 61 N. Mt. Vernon Ave., Uniontown, PA, with Rev. Father Peter L. Peretti as Celebrant.
Interment will be held at Lafayette Memorial Park, Brier Hill, PA, where military honors will be accorded by AMVETS Post 103.
The Parish Wake Service will be held on Friday at 3:30 p.m.
Please make contributions to Catholic Charities, Diocese of Greensburg; or to the American Heart Association.
Your personal written tributes and memories are welcomed and encouraged at www. hakyfuneralhome.com.