Irene (Hodovanec) Zarnoski

Irene Zarnoski, formerly of Blakely, PA and Sarasota, FL died peacefully Wednesday at St. Mary’s Villa surrounded by her loving family.  Irene was the wife of the late Henry “Hank” Zarnoski.

Born February 12, 1930 in Olyphant, Irene was the daughter of the late Anastasia and George Hodovanec, and stepfather Paul Krasko.  She was a graduate of Olyphant High School, Class of 1947.  As a homemaker, Irene was dedicated to taking care of her family.  She was an excellent cook and baker as well as a talented seamstress. 

When Irene and Hank first moved to Florida in 1978, Irene was disappointed when she couldn’t find an Orthodox church to attend.  Eventually, Irene met a group of likeminded people and together they founded St. Mark Orthodox Church in Bradenton, FL. She had the proud distinction of being the last living founder of the church.  In July 2019, she was awarded an archpastoral gramota by Archbishop Alexander of Dallas and the Diocese of the South for her hard work and dedication.  Irene loved to sing not only in the church choir, but also with the “Magic of Manatee” Sweet Adeline’s Chorus.

Irene is survived by a daughter, Gail Capalong and husband Andrew, three grandchildren, Andrew J. Capalong, Aria Thompson (Colby), and Kyra Zarnoski (Brian Goble); two great-grandsons, Kealan and Tage; a sister, Veronica Sleyo; nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by a son, Gregory Zarnoski; sisters Mary and Helen; and brothers John and George.

Irene’s family would like to thank the wonderful staff at St. Mary’s Villa for the excellent care, kindness, and compassion shown to her over the past 3 ½ years.

The family will receive friends and loved ones from 9 to 9:45am on Tuesday, June 9 at All Saints Orthodox Church, 211 Willow Street in Olyphant. The funeral service will follow at 10 am. Following the funeral, interment will take place at St. Tikhon's Monastery, South Canaan. Services will be celebrated by Fr. Paul Witek, Pastor.