Emil Francis Brenkus

Emil Francis Brenkus, 94, of McMurray, died Monday, December 10, 2007, in Donnell House, following a one-year illness. He was born December 3, 1913, in Bethel Park, a son of Emil and Mary Retaichak Brenkus. Mr. Brenkus worked as a salesman and assistant sales manager at Cliff Heath Ford for 35 years. He was also a professional musician and a member of the Pittsburgh Musicians Union. Mr. Brenkus enjoyed traveling and gardening and was an avid sports fan. He was a member of the Fellows Club and was Catholic by faith. During World War II, he served in the Army and saw action in Normandy, Northern France, Rhineland, Central Europe and the Ardennes. For his service he was awarded the European-African-Middle Eastern Service Ribbon and Good Conduct Medal. He was honorably discharged as a corporal on October 6, 1945. His wife of 28 years, Eve Decker Brenkus, survives. Also surviving are a stepson, Mark Louis Werst of Aliquippa; a stepdaughter, Bettina Louise Griffin of Middletown, Delaware; three sisters, Mary Herby, Margaret Herby Allison, and Anna Herby; a daughter-in-law, Patricia Brenkus; two grandchildren, Brooks Brenkus and Brett Brenkus; and two step-grandchildren, Steven Werst and Jeffrey Werst. Deceased are a son, Emil V. Brenkus; and three sisters, Lucille Cook, Amelia Brenkus, and Christine Fenimore. A memorial tribute will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, December 15, 2007, at Peter�s Place Restaurant, Bridgeville, followed by fellowship with family and friends. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Donnell House, Hospice Care of the Washington Hospital, 155 Wilson Avenue, Washington PA 15301. Arrangements are being handled by William G. Neal Funeral Homes, Ltd., 925 Allison Avenue, Washington.