Laurie Beth Kocan, 62 of Pittsburgh, PA passed away peacefully March 29th, 2025, in St. Margaret Hospital.
She was born in Steubenville, OH to the late Jack and Mary Ann Maher Kocan and raised in Uniontown, PA.
Laurie was born with spina bifida, but she never let her physical disability define her. Her disability may have presented her with many challenges, but Laurie never shied away from her goals and aspirations, facing these challenges with courage and determination. She lived her entire adult life independently and spent significant time advocating for individuals with spina bifida through her involvement in many organizations and support groups. In her spare time, Laurie embraced every opportunity to enjoy Broadway theatre productions, art, the latest movies and fine dining.
Laurie was a graduate of Laurel Highlands High School and the Art Institute of Pittsburgh where she earned her degree in graphic design.
Left to cherish Laurie’s memory are her sister, Lynn Kocan of Morgantown, WV and her nephews Keenan Kocan, Liam Sandoval, Wyatt Sandoval (Jasmine) and Zander Sandoval. She is also survived by aunts Virginia Rach of Greensburg, PA and Barbara Newell of Bridgeville, DE, uncle Robert Kocan of Gibsonia, PA, many cousins, great nieces Nalani Sandoval and Violet Sandoval and dear friends Lori Ellis and Riley Newell both of Pittsburgh.
To honor Laurie’s memory, donations may be made to Spina Bifida Association of Western PA, 3000 Stonewood Drive #100, Wexford, PA 15090.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the ANDREW D. FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORIES, INC., 80 Morgantown St., Uniontown, PA. A service celebrating Laurie’s life will be held at a later date.
