Ruth Antoinette “Toni” YILEK, 85, of Germania, PAof Germania, PA

Ruth Antoinette “Toni” YILEK, 85, of Germania, PA, passed away Thursday, March 5, 2026, with family and friends by her side. Known to many as “Nanny,” she was loved by generations of family, friends, and former students.
Born December 1, 1940, in Elmira, NY, she was the daughter of Harry and Theresa Straley Succowich. A graduate of Galeton Area High School, she earned an education degree from Mansfield State Teachers College.
On May 2, 1964, in Germania, she married John Yilek, and together they built a life centered around family, community, and service. Toni devoted her life to education, teaching in Cross Fork, Westfield, and ultimately retiring from the Galeton Area School District after more than 30 years of service.
To generations of students, she was affectionately known as everyone’s favorite third grade teacher, remembered for her kindness, spunk, and the enthusiasm she brought to her classroom. She was a member of St. Germain Catholic Church and the Germania Fire Company Ladies Auxiliary, where she enjoyed being part of the community she loved so much.




























