Marian E. Surrena Rihel
Marian E. Surrena Rihel, 76, of Harrisville, died peacefully at 1:31 p.m. Tuesday at Butler Memorial Hospital.
Her death marked the end of a yearlong battle with breast cancer and other health problems, during which time she demonstrated great strength, courage, humor and faith in God.
Born Dec. 16, 1940, in Harrisville, Marian was the daughter of James “Glen” Surrena and L. Hope VanDyke Surrena.
Marian attended the VanDyke School and graduated from Grove City High School in 1958.
On Sept. 30, 1959, she married the late W. Jay Rihel.
Marian's passion and career in life was taking care of others. She worked as a certified nursing assistant at Grove City Hospital, United Community Hospital and the Orchard Manor Nursing facility and as a home health care aide. She also provided care for many elderly people in their homes. She was well-known for her caring and compassionate personality.
Marian was a wonderful wife, mother and friend. She will be remembered for her love of people, gentle strength, sense of humor, cookie baking and talking on the phone. She enjoyed cooking, crafting and spending time with family and friends.
She was a member of Rocky Springs Presbyterian Church in America.
Marian is survived by two daughters, Paula Schall and her husband, James, of Grove City, and Christine Byrd and her husband, James, of Butler; and five grandchildren, Kristen Rahall and her husband, Alex, Aaron Schall, Jenna Schall, Andrea Byrd and Patrick Byrd, all of whom she adored and spoiled.
She also is survived by her brothers, James Surrena and his wife, Janet, of Missoula, Mont., and David Surrena and his wife, Barbara, of Grove City; and her stepsiblings and several nieces and nephews.
Marian will be greatly missed by her family and friends.
RIHEL — Visitation hours for Marian E. Surrena Rihel, who died Tuesday, Jan. 3, 2017, will be from 2 to 4 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m. Friday and from 10 a.m. until the time of service at 11 a.m. Saturday at Cunningham Funeral Home, 306 Bessemer Ave., Grove City.The funeral service will follow at 11 a.m. Saturday at the funeral home with the Rev. Scott Fleming officiating. Burial will take place at Prairie Cemetery, Harrisville.Memorial contributions may be made to Rocky Springs Church, 123 Rocky Springs Road, Harrisville, PA 16038.
