Edward Protas Pavlak, Sr.
Daisytown
Edward Protas Pavlak, Sr., 85, of Daisytown, passed away peacefully Tuesday, August 12, 2025, in Pittsburgh.
Born May 10, 1940, in Centerville, Edward was a son of the late Protas Pavlak and Helen Panak Pavlak.
He spent his career as a highway designer at PennDOT District 12, where his work helped shape the infrastructure of southwestern Pennsylvania.
He also served his country with pride in the Army Reserves.
Ed was a man who loved to build-with his hands, his heart, and his humor. Whether working on projects around the house, building furniture, or helping friends build a restaurant, he found joy in craftsmanship. His family continues to use and cherish the furniture he built.
He was a dependable father, friend and neighbor, always willing to lend a hand. Ed took pride in teaching his children practical skills, instilling in them a strong sense of self-reliance and capability.
He had a dry wit and a playful spirit. He enjoyed the excitement of horse racing and never missed an opportunity for a friendly wager. Ed had a lifelong love of polka music, which always set his foot tapping, and he never turned down a plate of pierogies, halupki, or a slice of nut roll.
Edward was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Marlene; his sisters, Evelyn and Theresa; and his granddaughter, Jennifer.
He is survived by his children, Amy Pavlak Laird and her husband, Darin Laird, and Edward Protas Pavlak, Jr. and his wife, Erin Friess Pavlak; his stepdaughter, RaeDawn Kendall; along with his grandchildren, Tess Pavlak, Ian Laird, and Raelynne Kendall; and his great-grandchildren.
He will be remembered for his quiet strength and the laughter he brought to those around him.
Family will receive friends from 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday, August 14, in the MARISCOTTI FUNERAL HOME, INC., Anthony N. Mariscotti, supervisor, 323 Fourth Street, California, where funeral services will be held at 12 noon Friday, August 14, with Fr. Efren Ambre officiating,
Interment will follow in Lafayette Memorial Park in Brier Hill.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Lewy Body Dementia Association at www.lbda.org. If you’d like to play a polka for Ed, contact his favorite AM radio station, 620 KHB.