Theodore Ivanco

Theodore “Ted” Ivanco
August 27, 1934 – June 17, 2026

Theodore “Ted” Ivanco, 91, passed away peacefully on June 17, 2026.

Born on August 27, 1934, in East Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Ted graduated from Turtle Creek High School, where he met his high school sweetheart, Wanda Mae Leeds. They were married for 56 years and raised 6 kids in Penn Hills, PA.

Ted proudly served his country in the U.S. Air Force as a flight engineer on B-47s. Following his military service, he had a successful career as an electrical designer with several engineering firms in the Pittsburgh area.

Ted embraced life with enthusiasm and joy. He was known for his hard work ethic, smile, positive outlook, and his silly sense of humor. He found great happiness in boating, camping, hunting, and visiting the Pittsburgh Zoo. Ted was always quick to volunteer whether it was an usher at church, a Boy Scout Leader, or delivering Meals on Wheels. His 17 grandchildren all adored him.

Ted was preceded in death by his wife, Wanda; his daughter, Sharon Ivanco, his parents, John and Anna Ivanco; his brothers, John and Mike Ivanco; and his sisters, Mary DeCesare and Anne Vitori.

He is survived by his children: Ted (Maureen) Ivanco, Janice (Kirk) Gaiser, Beverly (David) Huegel, Laura (Chris) Pegher, Tom (Marie) Ivanco. His 17 grandchildren: Melissa (Sean), Teddy, Jonny, Lauren (Brent), Brendan (Karly), Kristen, Tammi (Milton), Travis (Sheila), Jocelynn, Steve (Erin), Marie (Patrick), Greg (Christy), Rachael (Caleb), Ben, Sarah, Celeste & Hugh along with 8 great grandchildren.

Ted’s life was defined by his love for family, his dedication to his work and country, and his ability to find joy in the simple pleasures of life. His memory will live on in the stories shared, the traditions he passed down, and the countless lives he touched with his gentle spirit and generous heart.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to The Rouse Home (www.rouse.org – 701 Rouse Ave, Youngsville, PA 16371). The Rouse Home is where Ted spent his last 2 ½ years being well cared for.  Or, consider donating to the Pittsburgh Zoo, (a place that Ted loved), 7370 Baker St., Pgh., PA 15206 (www.pittsburghzoo.org/support/honorary-and-memorial-gifts/).

Friends and family will be received Friday July 10th from 2-4 and 6-8 at Patrick T Lanigan Funeral Home 700 Linden Ave, East Pittsburgh PA 15112.

A Divine Liturgy will be held on Saturday July 11th at  10 a.m.  in Ss. Peter and Paul Byzantine  Catholic Church,  (431 George St, Braddock, PA 15104)  . 

Interment with Military Honors to follow at Good  Shepherd Cemetery in Monroeville (733 Patton Street Ext, Monroeville, PA 15146).