Michele B. Slivko

Michele B. "Shelly" Slivko, 70, of Bethlehem, passed away peacefully on Sunday, October 4, 2026. She was the beloved wife of Joseph J. Slivko, with whom she shared 49 years of marriage and memories.

Born on June 11, 1956, in Bethlehem, Michele was a daughter of the late Diane (Rudolph) Maas and "Dad" Frank Paukovits. She was a 1974 graduate of Whitehall High School and a member of Holy Infancy Catholic Church.

Michele will be remembered as a loving, thoughtful, kind, and compassionate woman who always put others before herself. Family was everything to her, and there was no place she would rather be than surrounded by the people she loved. Whether celebrating a holiday, taking a family vacation or simply spending time together, Michele had a way of making those moments special.

Throughout her health battle, Michele demonstrated remarkable courage and strength. She always remained positive, never complained and continued to reassure those around her with the words, "It will get better." That optimism, along with her selfless and caring nature, remained with her throughout her illness.

Michele was an avid reader who also enjoyed music and animals. She loved traveling and vacationing with her family, especially trips to the beach in Ocean City, Maryland. She also enjoyed visiting New York City, where she attended many shows over the years. Above all, her greatest joy came from spending time with her children and grandchildren.

In addition to her husband, Joseph, Michele will be lovingly remembered by her sons, Matthew Slivko and Marc Slivko; daughter, Samantha FaRannte and her husband, Danny; grandchildren, Anthony and Rocco; and stepfather, William Maas. She was preceded in death by her brother, Frank "Paco" Paukovits.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Connell Funeral Home, Bethlehem. A visitation will be held on Thursday, October 8, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. at Holy Infancy Catholic Church, 312 E. Fourth Street, Bethlehem, PA 18015. A Mass of Christian Burial will immediately follow at 10:00 a.m. Interment will take place at Holy Saviour Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Luke's Children's Hospital, 801 Ostrum St., Bethlehem, PA 18015. Michelle always had a special place in her heart for children facing cancer, making this a particularly meaningful way to honor her memory.

Condolences may be offered at www.connellfuneral.com.