Eugene "Gene" Shayka

Eugene ("Gene") Shayka, Scott Township, died Wednesday evening at his home after a long illness. His wife is Ava (Marzani) Shayka.

Born in Peckville, he was the son of the late Martin and Theresa (Matechak) Shayka. He was a graduate of Scott High School Class of 1963. After high school, he completed four years in the United States Air Force at Nellis Air Force Base and graduated from Johnson Technical Institute with a certification in Machine Operations. Prior to retirement, he was a sporting goods warehouseman and salesman at Jerry's Sports Center for over 30 years. He was a member of Saint John Vianney Parish, Scott Township.

Gene was known for his fun-loving and quick-witted personality. He had many hobbies including hunting, fishing, landscaping, and strategizing the next winning lotto numbers. He also enjoyed going to sporting events, watching his children and grandchildren play sports, and spending time with friends, family, and his beloved wife Ava. He will be deeply missed by all.

Surviving are three sons: Kristofer and his wife Amy Holt, Derek and his wife Carly Shayka, Jared and his wife Réka Shayka; a daughter, Jennifer Sanders; eleven grandchildren: Lauren, Collin, Connor, and Kristofer Holt, Zofi, Toren, and Halilah Sanders, and Ella, Lila, Everett, and Freya Shayka. Also surviving are his Aunt Mary Guman and many cousins.

A mass of Christian burial will be held on Monday at 9 am at Saint John Vianney Church, 704 Montdale Road, Scott Township. Friends may call at the church from 8 am until the time of the mass. Interment will follow at Saint Cyril's Cemetery, Peckville.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Lawrence E. Young Funeral Home and Cremation Services Inc., 418 South State Street, Clarks Summit.