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John P. Papuga

May 05, 1929 - January 03, 2014

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Obituary For John P. Papuga

May 5, 1929 - January 3, 2014

Age 84, born May 5, 1929, passed away peacefully on January 3rd, 2014 with his wife and daughter by his side. He was the 11th of 12 children born to George and Mary (Janitor) Papuga of Jane Street, Southside. He is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Kay Saunders Papuga, his daughter, Linda Lee (Trevor) Hershey, and grandchildren, Jack, Samuel, and Ellie Hershey. He was preceded in death by his son John Papuga II. He is also survived by two sisters Matilda Larson and Parthenia Papuga, one brother-in-law, James C. Stavros, and numerous nieces and nephews. Preceding him in death are siblings Mary Bennet, Martha Stavros, Emory, George, and Joseph Papuga, Elizabeth Rodgers, Hildegarde Papuga, Clara McDonnell, and Margo Papuga. He was a graduate of South High School and Rice University. Serving nine years in the U.S. Navy, John was honorably discharged, achieving the rank of Lieutenant. After serving in the Navy, he graduated from University of Pittsburgh Law School. John was a partner with the law firm Tucker Arensburg and practiced law for 50 years. An active member of Stewart Avenue Lutheran Church, John served in various capacities as a food pantry worker, church council member, and Sunday School teacher. An avid scholar, gardener, history buff, and athlete, he participated in baseball, basketball, football, skiing, softball, swimming, and long distance bike riding, completing three TOSRVs. As a master cruciverbalist, he completed the New York Times Crossword Puzzle in INK almost daily. John's humor, compassion, and generosity will be remembered and missed by all.

Friends will be received at the John F. Slater Funeral Home, Inc., 412-881-4100, 4201 Brownsville Rd., Brentwood 15227, Friday from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m.and Saturday morning from 10:00 until the time of service at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, family suggests contributions to Family Hospice and Palliative Care, 50 Moffett Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15234 or Stewart Avenue Lutheran Church Food Pantry, 2810 Brownsville Rd., Pittsburgh, PA 15227.

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Condolences

  • December 11, 2019

    Mrs. Papuga, Linda Lee and family, I was so saddened to hear about Mr. Papuga's passing. I'll always remember him for his kindness and great sense of humor. Whenever my Mom would see him on the bus she always told me about their conversations and mentioned that he'd ask about me. And thinking about my Birthday Buddy has always made me smile. My sincere condolences to you all on the loss of a wonderful husband / dad / family member... My thoughts and prayers are with you.

  • December 11, 2019

    We are so sorry to hear of the death of Mr. Papuga. He was a kind and friendly neighbor with a pleasant word for everyone. Please be comforted in your loss with your memories and knowledge that he is now with Johnny. With our deepest sympathies, Kate Spurrier Steratore Betsy Spurrier

  • December 11, 2019

    My Condolences to John's family for his recent loss. I worked with John 27 years ago and was saddened to hear of his passing. John was a very good attorney but more importantly he was a true gentleman. I will miss his amiable ways and his great sense of humor.

  • December 11, 2019

    I was in the Navy with John. While I haven't seen him since 1957 (I live in Oklahoma) we did converse by telephone from time to time and we remained good friends. I was not the least bit surprised to read about all the nice things he did in his life. He was indeed a good man and I am blessed to have known him. My condolence to the family. I know you will miss him.

  • December 11, 2019

    Mrs. Papuga, Linda Lee and the entire extended Papuga clan - I am so sorry for your loss. Thinking of Mr. Papuga always leaves me with a smile and chuckle. What a great guy! Love to everyone. Katy

  • December 11, 2019

    Heartfelt sympathy to all on the loss of such a loving family man. He always said, "It's nice to be nice". And that is how he lived. A good example. Uncle Johnny was a caretaker and a mediator. I'll remember his ready smile, his sense of humor and his blue VW bug. Love to all, Don and Judy