Nancy June Kalajainen, 91, of Shenango Township passed away the evening of October 6, 2018 at Shenango Presbyterian Senior Care Center in New Wilmington.

She was born in Philadelphia, PA on January 25, 1927 to the late John and Edna Smith. Her parents died during her infancy. She was then adopted by her paternal uncle, George Smith and his wife Helen and was raised in New Castle.

Preceding her in death on August 25, 2017, is her beloved husband, Richard Kalajainen.

As a young woman she worked at the former Children’s Store in downtown New Castle. Throughout her life she was active in Christian activities such as teaching Sunday School, singing in choirs, working with children in AWANA, visitation committees, and volunteered to serve wherever she was needed. She attended Calvary Independent Church.

She is survived by her sons, Tim (Diane) Kalajainen, Paul (Anne) Kalajainen, daughter-in-law, Jeanine Kalajainen, (widow of Daniel Kalajainen) and grandchildren and great grandchildren, Bob and Jessica Rainey (Chloe, Lillie, Kallie), Aaron Kalajainen (Rowan Crisci), Steven Kalajainen, and Jason Kalajainen.

In addition to her parents, her adoptive parents, and her husband, Richard, Nancy is preceded in death by her son, Daniel Kalajainen and her sisters, Pat Wilson and Sylvia Smith.

The family will receive friends on Tuesday from 6:00PM to 6:30PM at the Calvary Independent Church 424 E. Moody Ave. followed by a Memorial Service at 6:30PM conducted by Pastor Chuck Fombelle.

Burial will take place at Castle View Memorial Gardens.