Bennie W. Sobolak

Bennie W. Sobolak, 87, of Weirton, passed away Friday, March 31, 2006 at the Weirton Geriatric Center. He was born May 12, 1918 in Chester, WV. Bennie’s survivors include his wife Dorothy A. (Pilette) Sobolak; daughter Beatrice Katherine Sobolak both of Weirton and many nieces and nephews. Bennie was the son of the late John and Katherine (Zagula) Sobolak. He was also preceded in death by his siblings Stanley (Lillian), Viola (Mike Znoy), Julius, Felix, Pauline and Edward (Ruth). Bennie W. Sobolak retired from Weirton Steel as a Plater Operator in the Tin Mill where he had 45 years of service. He was a member of the Sacred Heart of Mary Roman Catholic Church, the Polish National Alliance (PNA), AARP, VFW 2716 and the Hancock County Sportsman’s Club of which he was director. After graduating from Weir High School in 1935, he worked as a metallurgic tester for Weirton Steel Company from 1937 to 1941. Bennie joined the Air Force in August of 1941. He attended mechanics school at Sheppard Field, Texas, class of 43-F, then enlisted in the aviation cadet program and was commissioned as 2nd Lieutenant on June 26, 1943. He was stationed at Glasgow, Montana with 401st Bomb Group, 614th Squadron before flying to Dunethorpe, England. He completed 32 missions over Europe as co-pilot and 1st Lieutenant. Later he was assigned Ferry Command in Ireland. He returned to the United States and was assigned as pilot to Air Transport Command in the Pacific until Separation on December 13, 1946. He received the Distinguished Flying Cross and Air Medal. The family will receive friends Sunday 1-3 and 6-8PM at the Greco-Hertnick Funeral Home, 3219 Main Street, Weirton. Funeral Liturgy with Mass will be celebrated 11AM Monday at Sacred Heart of Mary Roman Catholic Church. Interment will be in Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens where military services will be conducted by the American Legion Post 10 and Weirton Honor Guard. Share tributes with his family at www.grecohertnick.com Funeral Home: Greco Hertnick Funeral Home 3219 Main Street Weirton, WV US 26062