Thomas Andrew Demko

Thomas Andrew Demko, former Sheriff of Jefferson County, died Monday, January 6, 2014 at Punxsutawney Area Hospital. Sheriff Demko, aged 75, was born on October 19, 1938, in Punxsutawney to the late Andrew and Madeline (Filitske) Demko. He is survived by his wife Arletta Anne (née Shaffer).

Sheriff Demko was a dedicated public servant who served his country both locally and nationally for most of his life. He served in the United States Army during the Berlin and Cuban Crises and retired as a First Sergeant from the Army Reserves. He was also a former Pennsylvania State Parole Agent, a police officer with the Punxsutawney Borough Police and was elected to three terms as Sheriff of Jefferson County.

Sheriff Demko was a devoted family man and active member of the community. He loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. For many years he was an avid hunter and fisherman. He was a member of the Eagles, Elks, Fraternal Order of Police, Knights of Columbus (past president) and the Sheriff’s Association of PA (past president).

In addition to his wife, he is survived by two children: Tim Demko and wife Laura of Houston, TX, and Joe Demko and wife Oksana of Eastvale, PA; two grandchildren, Noah Michael Demko and Grace Magdalene Demko; two sisters, Liz McGarvey and husband Dave of Punxsutawney, and Jean Shaw and husband Mike of Punxsutawney.

Friends will be received from 7-9 p.m. Tuesday, January 7, 2014 and from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. Wednesday at Shumaker Funeral Home, Inc. A Parastas service will be held at 4 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral home.

A Funeral Liturgy will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday at S.S. Peter & Paul Byzantine Catholic Church, celebrated by Father Simeon Sibenik.

Interment will follow at S.S. Peter & Paul Byzantine Catholic Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be made in Tom’s memory to the Punxsutawney Library, 301 East Mahoning Street, Punxsutawney, PA 15767.


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