Karen McMillen Yencsik
Karen McMillen Yencsik, of Emlenton, PA, passed away early Wednesday morning, September 16, 2026, in the comfort of her home, following a lengthy battle with dementia.
She was born in Grove City, PA, Mercer Co., on February 6, 1948. She was the only daughter of the late Samuel and Florence McMillen.
Karen grew up in Emlenton, PA, and was a 1966 graduate of Allegheny-Clarion Valley High School, as well as the Art Institute of Pittsburgh, where she studied commercial art.
She is survived by her beloved husband, Ronald Yencsik, whom she married on July 5, 1972. Also surviving are her two children, Laura Yencsik, of Towson, MD, and Peter Yencsik, of Parkville, MD, as well as her many cousins.
Karen was a devoted wife and mother who used her talent and interest in art to enhance the lives of her husband and two children. She was an avid gardener who loved nature, poetry, and the adventure of cross-country motorcycle trips with her husband and later long bike rides along the Allegheny River. She was her husband’s cherished partner and became his #1 carpenter, helping him build their log home together in Emlenton, PA. She took her role as a wife and mother extremely seriously, taking her children on trips through the museums of the nation’s capital and on many hiking trips in nature parks/centers. Even after she was stricken with dementia, she pursued her art and infused the lives of her husband & children with beauty and creativity until she was no longer able to.
Karen will be remembered for her kind & patient spirit, selfless devotion to her family, and her beautiful smile.
A celebration of life gathering will be held at the Yencsik home at 156 McMillen Rd, Emlenton, PA, 16373, on Saturday, September 19, 2026, for family & friends.
The Larry E. McKinley Funeral Home, Clintonville, is assisting the family with arrangements.
Friends can email condolences by visiting www.mckinleyfuneralhome.net
