Katherine C. Marinakos

Katherine C. Marinakos, a devoted wife, mother, sister and grandmother, passed away peacefully on June 8, 2026, in Flemington, New Jersey. Born on November 22, 1929, in La Belle, Pennsylvania, Katherine’s life was marked by dedication, creativity, and a steadfast commitment to both her family and the environment.

Katherine grew up in La Belle, Pennsylvania before moving to Pittsburgh, and then State College, Pennsylvania. Always deeply interested in environmental matters, she brought that passion into both her career and her personal life. She worked many years in the department of environmental research at Penn State University as a secretary before retiring to help care for her grandchildren. She always smiled and did her best to help the future generations, both the graduate students and professors she worked with and supported.  She lived according to her values, carefully conserving resources and encouraging others to be mindful of the world around them. Her strong will, spirited opinions, and heartfelt passion were hallmarks of her character, leaving a lasting impression on all who knew her.

Her creative spirit was evident not only in her professional life but also in her hobbies. An accomplished seamstress, Katherine designed and made her own wedding dress, showcasing both her skill and artistic flair. She had a love of flowers and gardening, again helping the environment in any way she could for future generations. She was always mindful of maintaining good health and had an enduring desire to educate and inspire her grandchildren.

Katherine’s personal memories paint a picture of a devoted woman who treasured her family and the simple joys of everyday life. She and her late husband, Peter Marinakos, whom she met at a corner diner in Pittsburgh, shared many adventures, including once appearing together as contestants on the former “Beat-the-Clock” game show during their honeymoon. She enjoyed taking long walks in her neighborhood and was known to walk many miles to and from work, reflecting her active lifestyle and strong commitment to health.

Family was at the center of Katherine’s world. She supported her children wholeheartedly during their younger years and continued to offer guidance and encouragement to her grandchildren in all their endeavors. She is survived by her son, Anthony Marinakos of State College, Pennsylvania, and her three daughters, Eva Marinakos of Boiling Springs, South Carolina; Joanne Marinakos of Shark River Hills, New Jersey; and Suzanne Marinakos of Readington Township, New Jersey. Her cherished grandchildren—Lanette Aloi, Jay Rus, Andrew Rus, Barry Pyle, Bryan Pyle, and Jason Pyle—also carry forward her legacy through their lives and accomplishments.

Katherine was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Peter Marinakos, who passed in 1984, and by her parents, George and Maria (Gajdos) Costello.

Cremation and burial arrangements in Centre County Memorial Park in State College PA are private and under the direction of Holcombe-Fisher Funeral Home, 147 Main St in Flemington NJ. For further information or to leave an online condolence, please visit www.holcombefisher.com.