Louise M. Botsko

Youngstown, Louise Mary (Palascak) Botsko

Louise, age 97, formerly of Struthers passed away peacefully on Sunday, December  9, 2018 at Ohio Living Park Vista where she was a resident since 2016. She was born November 27, 1921 in Youngstown, OH to George and Anna (Pavol) Palascak. 

In 1939, Louise was in the first graduating class at Woodrow Wilson High School, Youngstown, OH. She attended Christ Our Savior Parish, St. Nicholas Church in Struthers, OH, and was a member of the Altar 
and Rosary Society. She served as a Den Mother when her son Michael was a member of Cub Scout Pack 101. Louise was a member of the First Catholic Ladies Association Branch 161, and the Slovak Gymnastic Union Sokol Lodge 146, aka Sokol U.S.A. She worked for the Moyer Mfg. Co. and the J.C. Penney Co. Mahoning Plaza Store.

Louise had many hobbies. She was a talented seamstress, making her own wedding gown. She loved needlework, reading, and working crossword puzzles. She bowled in several women’s and mixed bowling leagues. Louise was a loyal sports fan, especially following her beloved Pittsburgh Steelers. She enjoyed music and loved dancing, especially polkas and waltzes. Listening to and singing Slovak songs was always a favorite pastime.

Louise was very proud of her Slovak heritage. She, her parents and siblings were all members of Sokol Lodge 146, Youngstown, OH, and many remained active much of their lives. She joined the Sokol Gymnastic Program and was a member of the Sokol Folk Dancing Performing Group, participating in calisthenics and dance programs at regional and national Sokol festivals throughout the U.S. and Canada. Louise and her husband Michael Sr. organized the Sokol U.S.A. Mixed Bowling League. 

For 18 years, Louise organized twice yearly public bus tours to Tampa, FL for the Sokol U.S.A. Gymnastic Festival. She also directed tour programs for Canadian and European members at the Gymnastic Festival in Washington DC. Louise served in many offices of the Sokol organization for 39 years, beginning with Lodge Trustee, Recording Secretary and Financial Secretary. In May 2013, she was honored at a banquet for her dedication to the local Lake Erie District Lodge and Sokol National organization. She was honored with awards presented by the Sokol House of Representatives from the states of Ohio and Pennsylvania. 

Louise’ husband Michael served in the Pacific during WWII. They attended many of the yearly annual reunions of the 58th Army Air Services Group throughout the US. They also organized and hosted the Youngstown Area Army Air Reunion event.

Louise is survived by her son, Michael (Julie) Botsko of Grand Haven, Michigan, as well as many nieces and nephews. She is proceeded in death by her husband Michael, whom she married August 23, 1947. Her parents, brothers George, Albert, Joseph and Edward Palascak, and sisters Helen Palascak, Olga Pushkar, Martha Elgin, and Anna Mikulec also proceeded her in death.
 
Calling hours will be held Monday, December 17, 2018 from 12:00 - 1:00 pm at the Kirila Funeral Home in Struthers followed by a service at the funeral home at 1:00 pm. Burial will take place in Lake Park Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be sent to the Steve Banjak Memorial Scholarship Fund Chairperson, c/o Sokol USA Farrell, 800 Spearman Avenue, Farrell, PA 16121. Phone number, 724 866-8553.

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