AUBURN | Stefan 'Steve' Rotko, 87, of Auburn, died Saturday, Feb. 2, 2013 at Auburn Community Hospital, following a brief illness, and with his loving family by his side. Mr. Rotko was a native of Pankna, Poland, coming to the United States in 1962 and had resided in the Auburn area since 1968. He was employed by Singer, Columbian Rope, and finally New Process Gear, retiring from there in 1987. He was a member of SS. Peter & Paul Church, a former trustee of the Sicz Club and a member of the Ukrainian Congress Committee. Mr. Rotko had a rough life during World War II in Europe. He was forced by the Germans to work in a labor camp and in the coal mines in Belgium. He is survived by his wife, the former Antonina Rusinko; his son and daughter-in-law, Roman and Lisa Rotko; his grandchildren, Justin (Katie), Andrew (Erica), Annie (Tyler), and Kathryn; his sister Antonina Lisniak, of Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada; and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brothers, Wasyl, Andre, and Michalo; and his sisters, Paraska and Anna. Friends are invited to call from 4 to 7 p.m. Tuesday at Plis Funeral Home, 220 State St., Auburn. Funeral services for Mr. Rotko will be at 8:30 a.m. Wednesday at Plis Funeral Home and 9 a.m. in SS. Peter & Paul Church. Burial will be in St. Joseph's Cemetery. Contributions may be made in Mr. Rotko's memory to SS. Peter & Paul School.
