Howard A. Traenkner

Howard A. Traenkner, 100, of Natrona Heights. passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday, March 27, 2021. He was born November 20, 1920, in Natrona, a son of the late Henry J. and Helen L. (Schlicker) Traenkner. Howard was a 1938 graduate of Har-Brack High School. In 1954, he earned his bachelor of science degree in mechanical engineering, and in 1959, he also earned a master's degree in mechanical engineering, both from the University of Pittsburgh. Howard served his country in the Navy from 1944-1946, aboard the USS Chiwawa AO 68, during WWII. He retired after 40 years of service from the Alcoa Tech Center where he worked as a Toolmaker, Mechanical Engineer and Materials Manager. Howard was a member of Faith Lutheran Church in Natrona Heights, life member of V.F.W. Post 894 in Natrona Heights, former Brackenridge Heights Country Club, where he was President for 7 years, life member of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, Society of Manufacturing Engineers, Sigma XI Scientific Research Society, Pi Tau Sigma Engineers Fraternity, Licensed Professional Engineers of Pa., Certified Manufacturing Engineers, Alcoa 25 year Club and the Y's Men for many years. Howard enjoyed his Thursday breakfast with his friends and his Saturday morning BS sessions with his life long buddies along with golfing and woodworking. Howard was recently honored at the re-dedication of the Harrison Honor roll for being the oldest living veteran whose name is part of the roll.

Howard is survived by his sister, Janet (Traenkner) Simpson, of Murrysville and by several nieces and nephews and great nieces and great nephews. In addition to his parents, Howard was preceded in death by his wife, Frances A. (Rauscher) Traenkner on February 7, 2008 and by his three brothers, Robert, Fred and George Traenkner.

Friends will be received on Monday from 3-7 p.m. in the Cicholski-Zidek Funeral Home, Inc., 1522 Carlisle Street, Natrona Heights 724-224-8688. Funeral service will be held on Tuesday at 11:00 a.m. in Faith Lutheran Church with the Rev. Eric Damon officiating. Everyone is asked to please meet at the church. Entombment with full military honors accorded by the Vandergrift Veterans Honor Guard will follow in Mt. Airy Cemetery, Natrona Heights. To send an online condolence please visit www.cicholski-zidekfh.com.