Paul Mirkovich, 68, of Farrell, passed away Tuesday evening, September 17, 2024, in Hermitage Nursing and Rehabilitation.

Paul was born on April 29, 1956, in Sharon, a son of Simon and Helen (Bartko) Mirkovich. He graduated from Farrell High School, Class of 1974, and earned a bachelor of art's degree from Penn State University in 1978.

He ventured into the newspaper industry with his first job at the Sharon Herald. He went on to work until its closure at the former Globe in New Wilmington. Paul then was employed at other newspapers, until he became a publisher and owner of his own newspaper "The Polka Times." Paul and his wife, Carol DeSantis also sponsored many polka dances at the former Kuzmans, Girard, OH, and SNPJ at Enon Valley for several years.

He was a lifelong fan of everything Pittsburgh, including the Steelers, Pirates, and Penguins. He also closely followed Penn State.

Paul was a lifelong member of St. George Serbian Orthodox Church, Hermitage, where he was highly involved in its activities, such as working on the church's history for its anniversary books, banquets and at one time served as an officer of the Serbian National Federation (SNF) and represented the Farrell/Hermitage Lodge at the National Convention.

He is survived by his mother, Helen Mirkovich; two brothers, Nicholas and Samuel (Cathy) Mirkovich; a nephew, Michael Mirkovich; a niece, Lauren Mirkovich; two aunts, Dorothy Wilson and Helen Mirkovich; a Godson, Adam Backo; and many cousins and extended family members.

Paul was preceded in death by his father; grandparents, Nicholas and Mary Mirkovich and Joseph and Mary Bartko; aunts and uncles, Ann and Boris Milankovich, George Mirkovich, and Stephen J. Bartko; and his Godparents, Russ and Roberta Gracenin.

His family would like to thank the staff at Hermitage Nursing and Rehabilitation for the care given to Paul during his stay at the nursing home.

The family suggests memorial contributions be directed to St. George Serbian Orthodox Church, 65 S. Keel Ridge Rd., Hermitage, PA 16148.

Calling hours will be 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday (09/21/2024) in St. George Serbian Orthodox Church, Hermitage. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.McGonigleFuneralHomeandCrematory.com

Funeral service will be at 1 p.m. Saturday, in the church, with Rev. Vedran Grabic, officiating.

Interment: St. John's Orthodox Cemetery, Hermitage.
Arrangements entrusted to J. Bradley McGonigle Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 1090 East State St., Sharon.