Paul J. Hruska Jr.

"Pap", 81, Johnstown, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, November 18^th, 2023, surrounded by his family. Preceded in death by his parents, Paul J. Hruska Sr. and Bernice (Kush) Hruska.

Survived by his loving wife of 47 years, Connie (Leonard) and his children: Jonathan (Erin) of Richmond, Virginia; Jason (Cheri) of South Fork, and Courtney of Alexandria, Virginia.  Paul was a proud, loving grandfather to his five grandsons, Travis, Caleb, Levi, Ashton, and Oliver.  Pap reveled in sharing the same birthday with Levi. He is also survived by siblings Eleanor (Albert) Zuccolotto of Benscreek, Margaret (Jerry) Gray of Windber, Ludwig “Lud” (Mary Helen) Hruska of Hollsopple, and Bernice Gregory of Windber;

sister-in-law, Marsha (Terry) Horton, Altoona, PA; brother-in-law, Barry (Gail) Leonard, Tipton, PA, as well as his many beloved nieces and nephews.

Paul was born on July 7, 1942, at home in Benscreek. He was a 1960 graduate of Conemaugh Township High School, where he participated in the Industrial Arts program. After graduation, Paul worked various jobs in the area. During the 1970s, he spent time working on a dirt racing crew and operating an auto parts truck at various racetracks throughout Western Pennsylvania. Paul, along with his father and brother, founded H&H Machine in Johnstown and later relocated the business to Jerome, where they also operated Pioneer Country Store.  Paul and his brother also went on to own and operate a steel fabrication business, Pear Fabrication. Paul was a generous man who was ready to lend a helping hand to those in need.  He enjoyed being the guy who could fix anything or offer some advice. Paul most enjoyed spending time with his family doing activities such as camping, fishing, watching Steelers football and NASCAR races, or watching his grandsons’ sporting events. He was a member of  Mount Calvary Lutheran Church in Richland, where he had served on the church’s council.  Paul was also a lifelong animal lover who will be deeply missed by his cats Zoey and Chessa. He was fond of saying “Every day is a good day; some are just better than others.” and “Be kind to each other. The world will beat you up enough.” These are words that his family has kept in their hearts during this difficult time. The family would like to thank Carolyn and Sue of Conemaugh Hospice for their diligent care and compassion during the final weeks of Paul’s life, as well as the many nurses and doctors that cared for him.

At Paul’s request, there will be no public viewing. Friends will be received from 1 p.m. until time of a service of remembrance at 2 p.m. on Saturday, December 9^th, 2023, at Harris Funeral Home, 500 Cherry Lane, Richland, with the Rev. Toby R. Holland officiating. Private inurnment will be held at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, Paul’s family asks that donations be made in his memory to Conemaugh Regional Hospice or to the Dementia Society of America. Online condolences may be posted to www.wharrisfuneralhome.com. Cremation by Laurel Highlands Crematory at Harris Funeral Home.