John Joseph Yurek
John Joseph Yurek, age 88, of New Castle, DE, passed away peacefully in the comfort of his home on Thursday, June 18, 2015.
Born in Hazleton, PA on August 9, 1926, Mr. Yurek was the son of the late John C. Yurek and Mary (Zipobsky) Yurek. He proudly served his country as a member of the U.S. Army during WWII. After completing his education, Mr. Yurek began his career as a teacher at Laurel High School and later at De La Warr High School and William Penn High School, dedicating 42 years of service to his students prior to his retirement from the Colonial School District. While teaching, he also worked part-time for 17 years for Pathmark.
A longtime member of Asbury United Methodist Church, Mr. Yurek loved singing in the church choir and attending services there. He was known for his quick wit and love of a good joke. In his leisure time, Mr. Yurek enjoyed solving puzzles and playing dominoes. He was a devoted and loving family man.
In addition to his parents, Mr. Yurek was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Barbara Frances (Prettyman) Yurek; and sisters, Ella P. Kushner, Mary A. Hale and Theresa D. Brennen. He is survived by his daughter, Fran Donaway and husband, Chuck of Harbeson, DE; sister, Monica M. Gleeson of Hazleton, PA; many nieces and nephews and their families; and his loving caregiver, Araba Hagan, whom he cherished like a granddaughter.
A funeral service will be held at 11 am on Tuesday morning, June 23, 2015, at the Asbury United Methodist Church, 300 E. Basin Road, New Castle, DE 19720, where a visitation for family and friends will be held from 10 am until 11 am. Interment will follow in Gracelawn Memorial Park, 2220 N. DuPont Parkway, New Castle, DE.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Asbury United Methodist Church, at the address listed above, or to the Sunday Breakfast Mission P.O. Box 352 Wilmington, DE 19899.
Ruthann Pyle
I will forever cherish your memory…although my heart is broken, I do know that you are with Aunt Bobbie now and walking In The Garden with Him. I will love you always, Uncle John!
Paula Pepper
Deepest sympathy for our family’s loss!
Cynthia McCarraher
I would like to send my Condolences out to the Yurek family in this time of sorrow..
He is with the angels looking down on his Love ones…he is at peace now no more pain or suffering..God Bless
I knew Mr Yurek from De La Warr High…he was a great man and teacher.
R.I.P Mr. Yurek
Ruth Ann Cope
Dear Fran and family,
Your Dad was a great neighbor to us and I enjoyed the short time I was able to sing with him in the Asbury choir. Our condolences and a prayer that you may have peace knowing he is in the loving arms of Jesus.
Sincerely,
Ruth Ann, Rick, Drew and Steven Cope
Kathy Mitchekk
I am so sorry to read the passing of Mr Yurek. Many years ago he was one of my teachers at De La Warr High School. Also my Favorite. I know he will be missed very much. My prayers are with you all.
Kathy Mitchell
Cathy Reardon Creamer
I was sorry to hear of the passing of Mr Yurek. Many years ago he was my Algebra teacher at DeLaWarr High School. Algebra was not my strong point but Mr Yurek inspired me to work hard and do my best. He was a true Professional. My prayers are with you and his family at this time of loss.
Coleen Walls
Mr. Yurek was a great teacher. He was my teacher at William Penn High School for math. I also knew him through Asbury Methodist church. I am a former member there. Sorry for your loss.