Father Nicholas Kraynak

Father Nicholas (Nick) Kraynak, 91

Youngstown…Father Nicholas (Nick) Kraynak, age 91, of Youngstown peacefully passed away July 14, 2024 at Hospice of the Valley in North Lima, Ohio .

Father Nick was born in Youngstown in 1933, the son of the late Michael and Anna Kraynak. He was the eighth of eleven children.

He graduated from St. Procopious Academy (High School) in Lisle, IL in 1951. He then graduated from Duquesne University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1955, and from SS Cyril and Methodius Seminary in Pittsburgh in 1959.  He was ordained a Byzantine catholic priest in 1959. Early in his career he served in the Cleveland area and in California. Most of his career was spent at parishes in Northeast Pennsylvania and New Jersey. He retired and returned to Youngstown in 2008.

In addition to his parents, Father Nick was preceded in death by all of his siblings.  

He is survived by a sister-in-law Adeline, and by many nieces and nephews.

The Kraynak Family has entrusted their loved one to the care of the Wasko Funeral Home.

Funeral services were held at Infant Jesus of Prague church on July 20, 2024.  Services were officiated by Bishop Kurt Burnette, the Eparch of Passaic.

The family would like to express their appreciation to the entire staff and all of the residents of Shepherd of the Valley Poland for the care, kindness and patience they afforded Father Nick the last several years.  Additionally, the recent efforts of the staff at Mercy Health Boardman Hospital and at the Hospice House were much appreciated.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Father Nick’s name to St. Nicholas Byzantine Catholic Church, c/o 3801 Shady Run Road, Youngstown, Ohio 44502.

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