John H. Pugel

John Harry Pugel entered into eternal rest at 2:10am on December 13, 2017 after fulfilling his earthly obligations for 104 years.

John was born on December 20, 1912 in Gannett, Idaho to Mary Magdalene Puhalla and John Milan Pugel who both immigrated from Czechoslovakia.

He was employed at Republic Steel in Youngstown for over 30 years and was a lifelong member of Concordia Lutheran Church, SNPJ Lodge#643, and Girard Historical Society.

John was a World War II army veteran and served in the Persian Gulf Command with the military police.

During his time overseas, he became pen pals with his future wife of 71 years.  Hermina "Mina" M. Perechlin married John on April 27, 1946 and they settled in Girard to raise a family and live many happy years in the house he built himself.

His hobbies included gardening, smoking his pipe, puzzles, cards, and string art.  One of his largest creations was the official logo for the Mahoning Valley Button Box Club.

John and Mina lived at Niles Shepherd of the Valley retirement community for nearly 15 years, then moved to Amherst, Ohio with their daughter, granddaughter, and great-grandson for the past 15.

John leaves to cherish his precious memories: his wife Hermina; children Brenda Kovach and John T. Pugel (Barbara); grandchildren John E. Kovach Jr. (Kimberly), Dr. Corie Kovach, John T. Pugel Jr, James Pugel; great-grandchildren John W. Kovach, Marti Hake, Amanda Hake; great-great grandson Blaise Hake; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Preceding him in death were his parents, three brothers (Thomas, George, Joseph), and three sisters (Anna Blucher, Rose Dulick, Sophie Kupec).

In accordance with John and Hermina's requests, there will be no formal calling hours or services.

Any donations should be directed to Sprenger Hospice, 3905 Oberlin Ave, Lorain, OH  44053 who provided John wonderful care for the last years of his life.

Feel free to express your thoughts and memories at www.blackstonesfuneralhome.com.