Donald N. Protetch
June 13, 2023

DONALD N. PROTETCH: On Tuesday, June 13, 2023. Beloved husband of the late Miriam "Mimi" Polasky Protetch. Loving father of Jack (Garrett Flaherty) Protetch and Marci Protetch. Brother of the late Geraldine Shulan (late Leonard Shulan) and the late Dolores Protetch. Grandfather of Abbey Plumb. Also survived by dear nieces and nephew Marlene and Jeffrey Kossis and Ilene Shulan, all of Florida, great-nephews Lyle Kossis of Virginia and Jason (Sarah) Kossis of Georgia.  

Born in Vandergrift, PA, to Isaac Protetch and Minnie Krell Protetch, Don spent most of his life in Pittsburgh's east end. A graduate of Peabody High School, he attended Carnegie Tech (CMU) prior to enlisting in the Army during WWII. Stationed in the Philippines and Japan, he served honorably as staff sergeant. After the war, he attended watch making school and like his father, opened a retail store, Donald's Jewelry, in Pittsburgh's Manchester neighborhood. Don continued his sales career, working at his brother-in-law's health & beauty aids business for many years. In 1962, he married the love of his life and soon moved to Stanton Heights where he and Mimi raised their children and later in life moved to Shadyside/Oakland. Prior to retiring, Don returned to the jewelry business that he so enjoyed, working at Bailey Banks & Biddle. He spent leisure time bowling, playing tennis & golf, reading novels, solving crossword puzzles & being outdoors on a sunny day. He enjoyed many family vacations to the Jersey shore and Florida and keeping updated on current events, faithfully watching the news when reading became a challenge. As patriarch, he delighted in celebrating family events and leading holiday traditions. Ever devoted to his family, he was a blessing to his wife and younger sister, supporting them through difficult illnesses. His wry sense of humor, warm smile and bright blue eyes will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Services at Ralph Schugar Chapel Inc., 5509 Centre Avenue, Shadyside on Thursday, June 15, 2023 at 1 pm. Visitation one hour prior to services (12 noon to 1 pm). Interment Adath Jeshurun Cemetery. Contributions may be made to Jewish War Veterans of USA at www.jwv.org or Rodef Shalom Congregation at www.rodefshalom.org. www.schugar.com

Condolences

Dear Marci and Jack, We extend our deepest sympathy to you on the death of your dear father. Fondly, Barbara and Jerry

Jack, My condolences in the loss of you father. You and your family are in my thought and prayers.

Jack, I am sorry that you have lost your father. I don't know how close you were but I hope that the grieving process passs rather quickly...and only fond memories remain.

Dear Jack, Jordan and I were saddened to hear from Bet Tikvah the red of your dad’s passing. It sounds as though he had an eventful and happy life. It was interesting to hear of his rural western Pennsylvania origin and his work in the watch and jewelry business, like Jordan’s dad. We send you and Garret warm hugs in this difficult time. XO, Paul

Jack, Marci and family, No words can express my sorrow in your time of loss. I am holding you all in my heart.

Marcie and family I’m very sorry for your loss. I’m sorry that I couldn’t make the service.

Jack and family, My condolences in the loss of you father. Keeping you and your family in prayers during this difficult time. May God ease your pain through the memories of his wonderful life, commitment to his wife and family and knowing he is now with God and will forever be watching over you and with you all with his loving spirit. Michelle Hennen