Sandra (Smith) Kurka

Sandra Kurka, 76, passed away on May 13, 2026 . She lived a life devoted to her family and had a genuine care for those around her. 

Born in Cleveland, she attended South High School, in 1970 she married James Kurka, and was together with him for 22 years. In 1988 she met Lawrence F. Kniep and has been with him for 38 years. She was a resident of  Columbia Station and employed with Giant Eagle as a pharmacy tech before retiring.

Sandra enjoyed shopping, frogs, all things sweet, and joking around with friends and family. Everyone knew how old her grandson was because his age was her license plate every year. 

She is preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Joyce Smith, her siblings Michael Smith and Deborah Hansen (David) nephew Christopher Hansen . She is survived by daughter Sandra (Troy Kubincanek). her partner Larry Kniep, sister Kathleen Smith, and grandchild Noah Bittinger. 

Visitation will be  Thursday May 21, 2026 from 5:00 to 7:00 P.M. at  Baker Kensinger Funeral Home.  

Pastor Joel Montgomery will conduct service on  Friday May 22 at 10:30 A.M. at Baker Kensinger Funeral Home followed by Burial at New Columbia Township Cemetery. 

Should friends desire, memorials may be made to the APL.

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