North Huntingdon, Pa—Michelle Brokenbek, 61, of North Huntingdon, beloved wife of 40 years to Duane Brokenbek, peacefully passed away Sunday, Dec. 16, 2012, in her home, surrounded by her loving family.
Michelle is the daughter of the late Sam and Marjorie Weinberg.
Left to miss and celebrate her are her adoring children, Leah (Ben) Leber, Marc (Leighann), Seth (Jill) and Shana (Marc) Tokarski, who will cherish the time they had with their one-of-a-kind mother. Her grandchildren, Isaac and Cianna Brokenbek, Brooks Tokarski and Jayna and Alanna Leber, were the lights of her life. She loved being a Bubby and adored each of them.
Michelle attended Penn State University, graduating with honors with dual degrees. She worked at Gateway Press for many years as a journalist until retiring to battle her cancer in 2008. Michelle won countless awards for her writing and enjoyed the opportunity to meet many people from different walks of life. Anonymously, Michelle was involved with many philanthropic causes locally and nationally. Although professionally accomplished, Michelle said her greatest success was her four children, whom she said were her entire world.
Michelle leaves behind many friends who will forever be better for knowing her.
Services were held at Shirley’s Funeral Home in North Huntingdon. In lieu of flowers or donations, Michelle asks those willing to make a contribution, to take an old friend to dinner instead.