Nicholas Yurchyk

GIRARD — Nicholas Yurchyk, 99, passed away unexpectedly Monday, May 4, 2026, at his home while tending to the garden he loved so dearly.

Nicholas was born Dec. 20, 1926, in Youngstown, a son of the late Roman and Julia (Bekish) Yurchyk, and was a lifelong area resident. He was a 1944 graduate of Chaney High School.

A proud son of Ukrainian immigrants, Nick carried a deep love for his faith, heritage and community throughout his life. He was a lifelong member of Sts. Peter and Paul Ukrainian Orthodox Church, where he sang bass in the choir for many years and was honored in recent years as the parish’s oldest living member.

Nick was best known as the longtime owner of Vogue Jewelers in downtown Youngstown, a business he proudly operated for more than 70 years. A talented watchmaker and skilled craftsman, he often said he spent his life “staring into the face of time.” Beyond jewelry repair, Nick became well known throughout the Ukrainian community for helping families send packages and supplies overseas during the Cold War years. He also worked as an outside sales representative for PanAtlas Travel Agency, a role that reflected his love of people and travel.

Nick proudly served his country during the Korean War with the 101st Airborne Division before receiving a hardship discharge to return home and care for his mother.

Nick married the former Rose Gyurek on Aug. 16, 1958, and together they shared nearly 53 loving years of marriage until her passing May 11, 2011. Together they enjoyed traveling, working at the Canfield Fair with their food concession stand and spending time at their cabin in Canada.

Nick was a man of many interests and talents. He loved antique clocks and pocket watches, singing old songs, watching sports, restoring classic cars and organic gardening. Gardening, especially growing garlic, became one of his greatest passions, and over the years he earned 45 first-place ribbons at the Canfield Fair for his garlic and vegetable entries.

He was also a proud member of the Scottish Rite for 15 years and the New York Rite for 71 years and was believed to be the oldest living New York Rite member in the state of Ohio. Through his business, travels and organizations, Nick formed countless treasured friendships over the years. He especially enjoyed sharing meals and companionship with his dear friend and “sidekick,” Millie

Above all, Nick treasured his family, friends, church and Ukrainian heritage. He will be remembered for his strong work ethic, generosity, storytelling and remarkable memory of the life and times he experienced.

Nick leaves to forever cherish his memory several nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews and many dear friends, especially his wonderful “sidekick,” Millie.

In addition to his wife and parents, Nicholas was preceded in death by his two brothers, John Yurchyk and Charles Yurchyk; and his sister, Mary Gula.

Family and friends may call from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, May 14, 2026, at Kinnick Funeral Home, 477 N. Meridian Rd., Youngstown, where a Masonic service will be held at 6:45 p.m.

Family and friends may gather to pay respects from 10:30 to 11 a.m. Friday, May 15, 2026, at Sts. Peter and Paul Ukrainian Orthodox Church, 1025 N. Belle Vista Ave., Youngstown, where a funeral liturgy will be celebrated at 11 a.m.

Interment will follow at Sts. Peter and Paul Parish Cemetery, where Nick will be laid to rest beside his beloved wife.