Mary M. (Kovalyak) Zaken

Mary M. Zaken, age 90, of Elizabeth, passed away Sunday, February 15, 2026 in Jefferson Hospital. She was a member of Ascension of Our Lord Byzantine Catholic Church in Clairton where she enjoyed volunteering. She was a former secretary for Clairton High School, a former lunch aide at Elizabeth Elementary School, and a member of GAA of Clairton High School. She was an excellent baker and chef and made the world’s best cabbage rolls. She loved being involved with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Born August 10, 1935 in Clairton, she was a daughter of the late John and Mary (Faron) Kovalyak and wife of the late George Zaken. She is survived by her daughter, Diane (Robert) Zaken Stecik of Forward Twp.; sons, George “Bucky” (Kathleen Moran) Zaken of Farmington, Kevin (Patricia Bucy) Zaken of North Huntingdon and Karl Zaken of Elizabeth; grandchildren, Devon, Paris, Kortnee, Erin, Joshua and Lindsey; great-grandchildren, Kamden and Lyla; brothers, Joseph Kovalyak of Palm Coast, FL and James Kovalyak of Easley, SC; also, nieces and nephews. There will be a funeral liturgy at Ascension of Our Lord Byzantine Catholic Church on Saturday, February 21, 2026 at 10 AM with Fr. Chris Burke officiating. EVERYONE PLEASE MEET AT CHURCH. Burial will follow in Ascension Cemetery, Clairton. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Ascension of Our Lord Byzantine Catholic Church, 318 Park Avenue, Clairton, PA 15025.

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