Elizabeth A. McClusick, 80, of Hollidaysburg, went home to be with her Lord at 9:15 p.m., Saturday, July 4, 2009 at the Altoona Regional Medical Center.
Born in Kato, PA on November 1, 1928 she was the daughter of the late Michael and Barbara (Pavlov) Leso. Elizabeth had grown up without her mother, but had the love of her father and siblings.
She was married to George M. McClusick on May 3, 1947, beginning a journey as a wife and a mother of 3.
Together, with her husband, she traveled all over Europe and the United States. Those times were some of Elizabeth's fondest memories and often spoke of her journey throughout the world and the encounters she had experienced.
While her life was filled with time of joy, sadness, and sometimes challenges, she never complained and never questioned the life she had been given. In the last 10 years, she was confined to a wheel chair but still was endeavored to help others as a proud P.E.E.R (Pennsylvania Empowered Expert Resident) Counselor at the Hollidaysburg VA Home. Along with other residents at the Hollidaysburg VA Home, she had advocated for other residents, at the home, by speaking up for issues concerning the care that was given.
Elizabeth enjoyed her friends in Hollidaysburg and had an unconditional love for her family. She died as she lived with peace and dignity. With her passing taking place of July 4th, her daughter, Susan, was quoted, "Today is Mom's Independence Day." Elizabeth's last words were, "I love you all."
She is survived by one son, George M. McClusick and his wife Rosemary of State College; two daughters, Celestine V. Hoy and her husband James of West Bend, WI, and Susan J. Therrien and her husband Philip of Neenah, WI; six grandchildren, Melissa Lein, Bryan and George Hoy, Curt McClusick, and Jake and Ben Therrien; five great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by her brothers, Michael and Andrew Leso; and her sisters, Susan Konachick, Mary Paskovich, and Barbara McClusick
The family would like to thank the Hollidaysburg Veterans Home for all the love and care they have given to our parents over the years.
Family will receive visitors from 10:00 AM until the time of Funeral Services on Thursday, July 9, 2009 at the Mark D. Heintzelman Funeral and Cremation Services, 1034 Benner Pike, State College. Funeral Services will be held from the funeral home, beginning at 11 AM on Thursday. Interment will then take place at Centre County Memorial Park.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Hollidaysburg Veterans Home, P.O. Box 319, Hollidaysburg, PA 16648-0319.
A guest book can be signed or condolences sent to the family at www.heintzelmanfuneralhome.com.