Obituary of Ruth J. Svilar

Ruth J. (Mack) Svilar, the oldest daughter of Grace J. (Lichtenfels) and Collins E. Mack, passed peacefully May 16, 2024, with her family at her side.  Ruth was born June 29, 1926, in East Wheatfield Township.  She graduated from Armagh East Wheatfield High School in 1943.

She married Michael Svilar on July 21, 1945. They raised their two children, Sandra and David.  They lovingly raised Mike’s youngest brother, Daniel Svilar, after losing his mother at a young age.  Ruth made sure Danny was treated like her own son.  He preceded Ruth in death.

Despite being widowed at age 48, Ruth remained positive and strong.  She was appointed Postmaster of the Armagh Post Office. She served 26 years with passion and dedication.  She had many opportunities to travel throughout the United States attending Postmaster’s Conventions.  She enjoyed traveling with her daughter to many wonderful destinations.

Ruth retired in 1992, leaving Armagh and moving to Indiana.  She made her home with her son and daughter-in-law.  She was able to watch her young grandchildren grow to adulthood.  She was affectionately known as “G” or “Grams”. She never missed an opportunity to brag about her grandchildren.  She successfully spoiled them every chance she had.  Ruth was blessed with four great grandchildren. She would light up at the sound of their voices making their way to her apartment.  She found immense joy in her family.  She participated in all family gatherings and events until the time of her death.

Ruth was a member of Bethel United Presbyterian Church.  She was a former member of the Indiana Country Club.  She volunteered at the St. Vincent de Paul Thrift Store where she was known for her “ironing skills”. She was an avid fan of the Pittsburgh Penguins and the Steelers.  She enjoyed trips to the casinos and bingo nights.

Ruth is survived by daughter, Sandra Svilar of Ligonier, her son M. David and his wife Elizabeth of Indiana.  Surviving her are her grandchildren, Stephanie Svilar, of Pittsburgh, Ryan and his wife Sarah and their children Eliza and Violet of Greensburg, Michael J and wife Katelynn and their children, Adalynn and Quentin of Indiana.  Ruth is also survived by her youngest brother, William I Mack of Clyde.

She is preceded in death by her parents, husband and the following siblings, Donald E. Mack, Gladys M. Jones, and Betty Lou Nerone.

Ruth was very grateful for the life she lived and cherished her family so deeply.  She wanted to be remembered as a “friend to all” and she was indeed.  Grams will be forever missed by her children and grandchildren.

Friends received 11 am till time of memorial service 1 pm Friday May 24, 2024. at Richard C. Stuart Funeral Home, 392 E. Philadelphia St., Armagh.  Father Richard Owens officiating.  Private interment for immediate family only at Armagh Cemetery.