Mary “Mitzie” (Yallech) Germanovich

BELPRE — Lifelong Struthers, Ohio, native Mary “Mitzie” (Yallech) Germanovich will celebrate her 100th birthday with her family and friends who treasure her remarkable life and legacy.

Germanovich will turn 100 on Oct. 1.

Born in Struthers, as one of five children, Mitzie was known from an early age for her warm spirit and strong work ethic. She grew up helping on the family property–raising goats, singing country western songs on the front porch, and working in her brother’s fledgling grocery store. It was there she met her future husband, Paul Germanovich. During high school, Mitzie wrote letters to local boys serving in World War II, a reflection of her caring and community-centered nature.

After graduating from Struthers High School, she remained deeply rooted in the city. Following her marriage to Paul, the couple moved just two blocks from her childhood home and raised four children: Paul Lynn, John, Mary and Nancy.

Mitzie’s life has always been filled with family, faith, and friendships. She was a faithful member of St. Nicholas Parish (now Christ Our Savior Parish), where she found strength and belonging. She faithfully tended the family graves, planting flowers and keeping them cared for year after year. For more than 50 years, she belonged to a close-knit card club, gathering monthly with friends to play the game 500. She also bowled in leagues, golfed, skied, and swam.

She and Paul were especially well-known on the dance floor, bringing joy to countless gatherings at the Croatian Club in Bessemer, Pennsylvania, and other favorite venues including Idora Park, SNPJ, and Avon Oaks. Their polkas and waltzes–especially Mitzie’s favorite, the Blue Skirt Waltz–were always a highlight.

Vacations took the family to Florida, Washington, D.C., Maine, Canada and California, along with summers spent at Crystal Lake. At home, Mitzie was known for her beautiful yard, her apple pies, and her welcoming spirit that made everyone feel part of the family. She also loved keeping up with the community through the Struthers Journal and the Youngstown Vindicator.

Today, Mitzie lives with her daughter Nancy Miller in Belpre where she has made new friends and continues to enjoy her favorite pastimes of watching football, golf, and baseball. She lights up when family and friends visit–especially when her grandchildren and great-grandchildren stop by. The family’s newest addition, a lively puppy named Piper, has brought even more joy to her days.

Mitzie’s family will honor her with a special celebration on her 100th birthday, a milestone that reflects a century of love, laughter, and devotion to family, faith, and community. Family will be coming in from all over the country.