Julia Kerelejza

Julia Kerelejza, of Kensington, died unexpectedly Sunday, June 12, at Andrew House Health Center in New Britain at the age of 96. She was the oldest parishioner at St. Marys Ukrainian Orthodox Church in New Britain, and had been an active participant in the life of the church for many years. A choir member for over fifty years, Julia was also active as a member of St. Olgas Sisterhood, and the weekly Doll Workshop group of the Cultural Organization. She had also served as Secretary for the Womens Club for many years. Julia was born in Pittsburgh, PA in 1908 to John and Josephine Paslowski. Julia met her husband, Joseph B. Kerelejza, through membership in Ukrainian church choirs. After their marriage in 1928, the couple lived in Pittsburgh and Detroit before moving to New Britain in 1933. In her younger years, Julia was heavily in demand as a soloist in the greater Pittsburgh area. Her rich, lyrical soprano voice earned her an invitation to join the world-renowned Koshetz Ukrainian Choir. Julia retired after many years of service as administrative assistant to the Principal of Smalley School in New Britain. She and her husband enjoyed spending the summers at Green Hill Beach in Rhode Island, traveling extensively throughout Europe and the Far East, and cruising throughout the Carribean. Julias husband died in 1995. She was also predeceased by two sisters, Rose Paslowska and Joephine Kramer, and a brother, Albert Paslow, all of Pittsburgh. Surviving are Julias daughter, Dr. Joan Kerelejza of Kensington, and her son, Joseph Kerel and his wife, Dorothy, of Newington, and her grandchildren, Christopher Kerel of Newington and Alisa Kerel of New Britain. Also surviving is a sister, Dorothy Bodnar of Pittsburgh; sisters-in-law Helen Ausanka of Southington, and Catherine Kerelejza of Kensington, as well as several nieces and nephews. In addition, she leaves her beloved cat, Lucky. Julia managed to retain her sharp wit and sense of humor, along with her warmth, positive attitude, and sincere interest in others. Most of all, she was a tender, loving, and devoted mother and grandmother who was loved deeply by her family. She will be sorely missed. The family expresses its sincere thanks and appreciation to the entire staff at Andrew House. They all deserve much credit for their caring attitude toward their patients. Special thanks to Debbie, Carmen, and Ramon, CNAs of the West Wing, and to Dee Carriere and Ann Papini. Calling hours at the Carlson Funeral Home, 45 Franklin Square, New Britain, are on Wednesday, June 15, from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., with a Panakhyda service at 6:15 p.m. You may also pay your respects at St. Marys Ukrainian Orthodox Church, 54 Winter Street, New Britain on Thursday, June 16, from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m., after which the funeral service will immediately follow. Burial will be in St. Marys Ukrainian Orthodox Cemetery on Osgood Avenue, New Britain. In lieu of flowers, please make donations in memory of Mrs. Kerelejza to St. Marys Ukrainian Orthodox Church Elevator Maintenance Fund. Please share a memory of Julia with her family on our online guestbook by clicking on "GUESTBOOK" at the bottom of this page.

Julia Kerelejza

November 7, 1908 - June 13, 2005

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Julia Kerelejza

November 7, 1908 - June 13, 2005

365 Days of Grief Support

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About Us

Grief & Healing

What We Do

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Plan Ahead

Resources

Contact Info