Marian E. Oknefski, Ridgway

Marian E. Oknefski, 84, a lifelong resident of Ridgway, passed away on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, at Pinecrest Manor surrounded by the love of her family.

She was born on August 4, 1941 in Johnsonburg, PA, a daughter of the late Alfred and Mabel (Sellers) Steudler.

On February 21, 1959, she married George "Russ" Oknefski, who survives. Together they shared more than 66 years of marriage.

Marian was a member of First Lutheran Church and worked at a variety of places over the years, making friends everywhere she went. She was a faithful and dedicated blood donor and volunteer at the American Red Cross, donating blood regularly until her health prevented it. Marian also spent her time volunteering to pick up trash, and Oknefski Road was dubbed "Marian's Mile" for the attentive care she gave to making sure it always looked beautiful. She also proudly picked litter with OJ Litter Pickers. Marian, Russ and many other family members and friends were also active with the Military Family Support Group and the Elk County Astronomical Society.

When she wasn't gazing at the stars or birdwatching, she enjoyed a nice walk outside to see what nature had to offer. Lovingly called "mom" or "grandma" by her family and friends alike, Marian mothered more than just her own family and was proud to spread her love far and wide. Loving her family above all else, Marian cherished spending time with her family.

In addition to her husband of more than 66 years, she is survived by seven children; Darryl Oknefski, Blake (Jen Barnett) Oknefski, Barbara (Kevin Gnan) Oknefski, June (Philip) Johnson, Beth Greathouse, Cheryl (Chris "Snuffy" DeStefano) Oknefski, and Ashum (Tanya) Oknefski, all of Ridgway; and by her 16 beloved grandchildren - Ross, Kristal, Eric, Ashely, Robert, Charlie, RJ, Chris, Tara, James, Darryl, Ur, George, Jessica, Ashum Jr. and Allison; 23 great-grandchildren - Katie, Zeke, Mikala, Aiden, Lacy, Arabella, Olivia, Jakob, Brody, Colton, Massimo, Evelin, Izzy, Andrew, Ashum III, Remington, Piper, Matteo, Benjamin, Savanna, Aryanna, Maddox and Giovanni; and 2 great-great grandchildren - Nova and Luna.

She is also survived by four siblings; Elizabeth Ann King of St. Marys, Margie Wortman of St. Marys, Joseph (Theresa) Steudler of Johnsonburg, and Gary (Mary Ann) Steudler of Wilcox, as well as by numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, Marian was preceded in death by her grandson; Travis Oknefski, and by four siblings; Al Steudler, Jim Steudler, Richard "Star Man" Steudler, and Joan Wilson.

Funeral Services for Marian E. Oknefski will be held on Monday, October 20, 2025 at 11:00 AM at First Lutheran Church, 331 South Street, Ridgway, PA 15853.

Burial will follow in the Ott Cemetery in Ridgway.

Visitation will be held at the Krise Funeral Home on Sunday, October 19, 2025 from 2:00 until 5:00 PM.

Memorial Contributions may be made to the American Red Cross.

Krise Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 130 Center Street, Ridgway, PA 15853 is handling the services and online condolences may be offered to the family at www.krisefamilyfuneralhomes.com.