Martha Jane (Bergant) Gillis
May 18, 1917 ~ February 14, 2017 (age 99) 99 Years OldShare using:
Martha J. Gillis, 99, of Export passed away February 14, 2017 at William Penn Care Center. She was born May 18, 1917 in Export, a daughter of the late Frances Cesen Bergant and John Bergant.
Martha was an active member of the community as a member of the Christian Mothers, Knights of Columbus Ladies Auxiliary, Rosary Society, Murrysville Fireman's Auxiliary, Monday Musicale, Golden Agers and Meals on Wheels. Her love of family, strong faith, and helping others were priorities throughout her long life. Her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were the light of her life. She enjoyed gardening, cooking, and entertaining; and loved to sing, dance and play cards. She was a member of the Slovenian Music Group. Martha continued to be active as a resident of William Penn Care Center by welcoming and helping new residents, leading the weekly rosary, and as a member of the Resident Council. She truly enjoyed talking to the staff and residents' family members.
Martha was preceded in death by her husband, William J., sisters Jennie Bergant, Pauline Bohince, Anna Pascoe, Frances Sporna and Marie Anderson; brothers Lewis, John and Joe. She is survived by son, William V. (Jean) GIllis of Export, son James (Carolyn) Gillis of Export, and daughter, Melodee (Larry) Lynch of Fort Mill, SC; grandsons Scott (Lauren), Jonathan (friend Kate) and Brett; granddaughters Angela (Matt) Young and Shelby (Jon) Weimer; great-grandchildren Matthew, Anderson, Avery, Jason and Heath; and many loving nieces.
Visitation will be from 3:00-7:00 pm on Friday, February 17, at the Wolfe-von Geis Funeral Home, 5701 Lincoln Avenue, Export (724) 327-1400. (Coincidentally, Martha was born and lived on the land that is currently the parking lot of the funeral home.). A funeral mass will be celebrated at 11:00 am on February 18 at St. Mary's Church, Export. Interment will follow at Twin Valley Memorial Park, Delmont. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Slovene Radio Hour, c/o Sharon Ujcich, 381 F Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15209 or St. Mary Catholic Church, 5900 Kennedy Avenue, Export, PA. 15632.
