Beloved Community Figure Gladys Kraynak Passes at 79: A Life Remembered

Pompano Beach, Florida, USA - Gladys Aho Kraynak, a cherished member of our community, passed away on June 2, 2025, at the age of 79. While we mourn her loss, we also celebrate the rich tapestry of her life that weaves together family, career, and community, as reported by Tribune Chronicle.

Born on September 27, 1945, in Youngstown, Ohio, Gladys was the youngest child of Eric Aho and Lempi Saare. After graduating from Girard High School in 1963, she embarked on a career in accounting at Dollar Bank in downtown Youngstown. Her hard work and determination allowed her to save enough to buy a vibrant red 1966 Chevelle SS convertible—a car that still evokes a sense of adventure and freedom.

A Life Full of Adventure and Family

Family was always at the forefront of Gladys’s life. She was married to her beloved husband, Joe, in 1968, and together they enjoyed driving vacations that took them to beautiful destinations like Pompano Beach, Florida, Hawaii, and even Europe. Their trips were not just journeys; they were opportunities to bond and create memories, reflecting the importance of family connection.

Gladys’s life was also deeply rooted in her faith. Active in church activities at Trinity Lutheran Church in Girard, she served as a reader and played a significant role in initiating the annual Trash and Treasure sale, showcasing her commitment to community service. She remained connected with numerous cousins and often took on the role of a caregiver for her family, embodying the spirit of giving.

In addition to her husband Joe and son Brian, who resides in Raleigh, North Carolina, Gladys leaves behind two grandsons, Andrew and Alex, nieces and nephews, and a host of friends who will miss her dearly. She was preceded in death by her parents and siblings but leaves a lasting legacy of love and service.

The Reality of Alzheimer’s Disease

Gladys’s passing also brings to light the broader issue of Alzheimer’s disease, a condition that affects over 7 million Americans today, with projections suggesting this number could rise to nearly 13 million by 2050, as highlighted by the Alzheimer’s Association. Nearly 1 in 9 people aged 65 and older is living with this disease, indicating that families like Gladys’s are not alone in facing the challenges brought by dementia.

This devastating disease not only impacts those diagnosed but places a significant burden on families and unpaid caregivers. With the costs of dementia care expected to soar to $384 billion in 2025, the stress on families is overwhelming. Caregivers are estimated to provide over 19 billion hours of care, valued at more than $413 billion, yet many report feelings of distress and negative health outcomes due to the demands of caregiving.

The significance of early detection and treatment cannot be overstated, with 99% of Americans believing that early diagnosis is crucial. As the population continues to age, it’s likely that Alzheimer’s cases will increase, and therefore, communities must be prepared to support those affected. The shortage of paid healthcare workers specializing in dementia care highlights a pressing need for action, a concern echoed in a review from PubMed.

Remembering Gladys

Family and friends are welcome to pay their respects at Trinity Lutheran Church on June 11, 2025, prior to a service celebrating Gladys’s life. She will be laid to rest in Poland Riverside Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, her family requests contributions to Akeso Hospice in Canfield, an organization that recognizes the importance of providing care and support for families navigating difficult times.

As we say goodbye to Gladys, it’s essential to reflect on the challenges many families face with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Gladys Aho Kraynak’s legacy will endure not only through her loving family but through the awareness and support for those battling Alzheimer’s. There’s something to be said for that—a testament to her spirit and character.