Anne (Grossek) Yakopec

Anne Yakopec, of Harmar, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, passed away on July 10, 2025, at the age of 92. Born in Renton, Pennsylvania, on November 17, 1932, to Bernard Grossek and Madeleine Clusta, Anne was the eldest of three daughters.

A devoted wife of Steve Yakopec, who preceded her in death in 2017, Anne built a life centered around family. Together, she and Steve created a warm and welcoming home, not only for their four children and all the grandchildren, but also for Anne’s parents. Their house was full of love, laughter, and the rich aroma of baked goods.

Anne served for many years as a volunteer "lunch mother" at Acmetonia Elementary School, where she became a beloved figure among students and staff. Her children’s classmates quickly learned that if you needed your hair French braided to perfection, Mrs. Yakopec was the one to see—her nimble fingers crafting masterpieces on not just her daughters, but their friends, too.

A woman of deep faith, Anne was a longtime member of the Christian Mothers at St. Francis Church in Harmarville. She also found joy and companionship as a proud member of the Red Hats Society, where she was affectionately and repeatedly elected “Queen Mother.” Even when she tried to step down, her friends wouldn’t let her—they knew no one planned an outing or a luncheon quite like Anne.

Anne’s passion for baking was a gift to all who knew her. Christmas time was magical in her kitchen, filled with the irresistible scents of cookies and nut bread. Her ladylocks were legendary—"to die for!" as the family says—and her cookie contributions elevated every wedding cookie table. She passed down her treasured recipes to her grandchildren, ensuring that her traditions—and the taste of her love—will carry on for generations.

A fierce protector and constant cheerleader, Anne’s love for her children knew no limits. Whether they were in the right or wrong, she was always in their corner, ready with a listening ear, a warm hug, or a spirited defense. Her role as “mama bear” never wavered, and her children will forever feel the void her absence leaves behind.

She also cherished time with her card club, gathering weekly with dear friends to play 500 bid, share stories, and celebrate life over good food and great conversation.

Anne Yakopec lived a life filled with compassion, strength, humor, and grace. She leaves behind a family who adored her, a legacy of kindness and resilience, and a cookie recipe book worth its weight in gold. She will be deeply missed, but her spirit will live on in every French braid, every perfectly iced ladylock, and every loving memory shared around the table.

Surviving her are: Son Stephen Jr. (Cheryl) Yakopec of Lower Burrell

Daughter’s Shelly Winter of fox Chapel

                     Mauree (James) Thordahl of New Mexico

Grandchildren Stephen III (Michele), David, CJ, Julia, Lucas, Lia, Tori, Jacob (Emily), and Kyle.

Great-grandchildren Sophia, Lilliana, Jones and Stephen IV.

Besides her parents, Anne was also preceded in death by her husband Stephen Yakopec Sr.

Daughter Myra Stellabotte; two sister’s Myra Atkinson and Vera Sakaluk

Friends are invited to attend her Mass of Christian burial on Tuesday July 15, 2025, in Holy Family Parish-St. Irenaeus Church, 387 Maryland Ave. Oakmont at 10am. Interment will be private for her immediate family in Deer Creek Cemetery beside her late husband Steve.  www.jarviefuneralhome.com

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