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Donald J. Pilch
August 15, 1941 to November 8, 2022
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Donald J. Pilch of New Castle, Pennsylvania, passed away on Nov. 8, 2022, after being surrounded by his loved ones. Born Aug. 15, 1941, Don was a cherished "Pa" to his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchild and the best husband, brother, uncle, and friend to countless others.
Don was a graduate of New Castle High School and New Castle School of Trades.
He was employed at Rockwell Axle Division for 35 years, where he worked midnights in order to spend as many waking hours as he could with his family. His "retirement" job was serving as a bartender at the K.P. Club, where his banter with patrons kept everyone entertained for 20 years. He was a member of Holy Spirit Parish and the Pirate Motorcycle Club.
Don was known for his sharp sense of humor, but inside he was a softie with a heart of gold, especially when it came to his family and friends. He most enjoyed taking rides on his Harley with his children and grandchildren. These adventures included trips ranging from Sturgis, South Dakota, grabbing a burger at "Bob's" in Jamestown, to ice cream dates to Forbush's.
Don earned the nickname "MacGyver" in his family for being able to fix anything. He was always willing to lend a helping hand, not only to his family but to anyone who asked for his help. He will be so missed by those who loved him most. His was a life fully lived and we are all comforted in knowing that he abided by a motto that hung in his room, "Life's Journey is not to arrive safely at the grave in a well-preserved body, but to skid in sideways totally worn out, shouting Holy S***... What a ride!"
Don is survived by his beloved wife of 59 years, Maryann; son, Greg (Cheryl) Pilch; daughter, Dawn (Joe) Piroli; grandchildren, Brianna (Dillon) Murphy, Bailey (Noah VanEvera) Pilch, Brayden Pilch, Brooklynn Pilch, Joe (Katie) Piroli; his great-granddaughter, Ava Piroli; and his siblings, Janet Micco, Jim (Jane) Pilch, Tom (Carol) Pilch, Patti Schodt and Debi Kao.
Don is greeted in heaven by his daughter, Dianne Khristine; and by his parents, Joe and Helen Pilch.
We cannot express enough thanks to the friends and family who helped make Pa's life, and ours, so colorful over the years. He is saving all of us a spot so we can laugh and have a couple together again one day. Much love.
Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Noga Funeral Home. Services will be private.
Eternal rest grant unto Don, O Lord. Let perpetual light shine upon him. May his soul, and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.
