George A. Shimko, 87, of Frackville, passed away unexpectedly at his home on Friday, March 6th with his loving wife and family by his side.

Born in St. Clair, he was a son of the late George Shimko Sr. and Helen Kurtz Shimko. In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by his sister, Anne Marie Wise.

George was a graduate of Pottsville Area High School. Following graduation, he began a career in sales with Sears, where he remained a dedicated employee for 40 years until his retirement. He was a devout and active member of St. Michael’s Ukrainian Catholic Church in Frackville, where he belonged to the Holy Name Society and was well known as one of the church’s pierogi makers for many events and fundraisers.

George proudly served his country in the United States Army from 1961 until 1963. He was also a member of the Frackville Elks B.P.O.E. No. 1533.

An avid fisherman, George enjoyed spending time out on the water. He had a great love for animals and especially enjoyed feeding the birds and squirrels around his home. He coached football for the Frackville Mountaineers, supporting his sons as they progressed through the program. Above all, he cherished time with his family and especially enjoyed attending his grandchildren’s activities and sporting events.

George is survived by his loving wife, Ann Jean Shimko of Frackville; three sons, George Shimko III and his wife, Donna, of Frackville; Joe Shimko and his wife, Kim, of Tamaqua; and Stephen Shimko and his wife, Lori, of Frackville. He is also survived by seven grandchildren, Devan, Monika, Melanie, Hunter, Hannah, Joshua, and George, and a great-granddaughter, Lydia.

A Funeral Service will be held on Thursday, March 12th, at 10 a.m. from St. Michael’s Ukrainian Catholic Church, Frackville, with Rev. Petro Zvarych, pastor, as the celebrant. Relatives and friends are invited to attend a viewing on Thursday morning from 8 a.m. until 9:30 a.m. at the Thomas M. Sullivan Funeral Home, 501 W. Washington Street, Frackville. A Panachida service will be held at the funeral home at 9 a.m.

Interment with military honors will follow at St. Michael’s Ukrainian Catholic Cemetery in the Englewood section of Frackville.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made, in George's name, to St. Michael's Ukrainian Catholic Church using the rectory address at 243 S. Middle Street, Frackville, PA 17931.

Sign the guestbook, leave personal condolences, and for further information, please visitwww.thomasmsullivanfuneralhome.com.

Thomas M. Sullivan Funeral Home, Inc., Frackville, is in charge of the arrangements.