With deep sympathy the family of Stanley J. Stanko announces his passing at age 99.

Staff Sergeant Technician Third Grade, Mr. Stanko proudly served in the United States Army during World War II under the leadership of General George S. Patton in the Third Army in France and Germany. On June 6, 1944 D-Day Sergeant Stanko participated in the Allied invasion of Normandy, landing on Utah Beach.

During his Army career, he was a B-17 aircraft mechanic. Having never flown in this aircraft during the war, he had the pleasure of flying on the Flying Fortress B-17, 71 years later. In addition to his aircraft maintenance duties, he also maintained various automotive vehicles and tanks.

Mr. Stanko was the owner and operator of Stan’s Sunoco in Providence. Stanley also was employed by the State of Rhode Island as a mechanic.

He was the loving and devoted husband of the late Pelegia T. Wyrostek Stanko for 65 years. Stanley leaves his daughter Barbara Brassil, son Joseph Stanko and granddaughter Jenifer Brassil, and her fiancé Thomas Martel. He was the father of the late Stanley Jr.

A mass of Christian burial was held at St. Luke’s church, Barrington, Rhode Island.

www.wjsmithfh.com