Michelle Lee Mitchell
December 31, 2017
Michelle “Shelly” Mitchell, 33, of Scranton. died Wednesday at home after a brief illness.
Born Aug. 9, 1984 in Scranton, daughter of Dale Totaro of Jefferson Twp. and the late Harry Mitchell, she was a member of Light of Christ Church in Jefferson Twp. Shelly will forever be remembered for her kind heart, will to be friends with whomever and her ability to love unconditionally.
Also surviving are her children, Shyann, Joshua and Jacob; sisters, Robin and Renee Snook; brother, Mike Wittenbrader; grandmother, Baiba Bomersheim; aunts, uncles and cousins.
Funeral services will be:
Tuesday at 2 p.m. the Light of Christ Church, 2071 Moosic Lake Road, Mount Cobb.
Friends will be received:
Tuesday from noon until 2 at the church.
Memorial contributions may be made at the service or to a P.O. Box being set up. Email robinsnk23@gmail.com for info.
Irene H. Armstrong
December 31, 2017
Born Dec. 3, 1923 in Scranton, daughter of the late Jacob and Ludwicka Klimach, she was a graduate of Scranton Technical High School. Before her retirement, Irene was employed by J.C. Penney in Scranton. She had previously been employed by Harper & Row Publishing and by the Third National Bank of Scranton.
Irene loved spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren. Irene was a lifelong member of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Scranton. She served on the Sunday School board and was past president of the Ladies Aid Association of the church. She also volunteered with the Immanuel Lutheran Church Braille Bible workers for many years.
Irene and her family would like to offer a sincere and warm thank you for the care she received from the staff at the Hospice of the Sacred Heart.
Surviving are her children, Debra A. Altier, Greenfield Twp.; Karen I. Muir, Jefferson Twp.; and Alan Armstrong and wife, Peggy, Greenfield Twp.; eight grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren.
She was also preceded in death by her sister, Martha Petrosky; brothers, Edwin, Walter, Gustave, Louis, Edward and William (Klimach) Klein; and her son-in-law, Joseph E. Altier Jr.
Funeral services will be:
Saturday at 11 a.m. in Immanuel Lutheran Church, 238 Reese St., Scranton, with the Rev. John Zimmerman as officiating clergy.
Interment will be at Evergreen Cemetery, Dickson City.
Friends may call:
Friday from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Howard J. Snowdon Funeral Home, 1810 Sanderson Ave., Scranton.
Memorial contributions may be made to Immanuel Lutheran Church, 238 Reese St., Scranton, PA 18508.
Joseph F. Santaniello
December 30, 2017
Joe was born Oct. 23, 1938, in Scranton. He was the son of the late Michael and Amelia Santaniello. He was a graduate of Scranton Central High School and received a Bachelor of Science in political science from Sophia University and a master’s degree in education at the University of Southern California.
Joe proudly served his country for 23 years in the Air Force. He enlisted in 1957, and before his retirement in 1980, the Vietnam War veteran achieved the rank of senior master sergeant. During his service, he was awarded the Air Force Longevity in Service Award, Air Force National Defense Service Medal, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross and Meritorious Service Medal. His service took him around the world where he met his wife, Sumiko, in Tokyo, Japan. They were married May 24, 1963. After many assignments, Joe was excited to come home and raise his family in the Pennsylvania community he loved.
He would work in the personnel department of the Tobyhanna Army Depot for 20 years. Joe “retired” a couple of times but was asked to return to the Depot because of institutional knowledge, positive attitude and work ethic.
Joe loved to celebrate his Italian American heritage, had an intense interest in local and national politics, fiercely cheered for the New York Yankees and loved to relax to the music of Frank Sinatra and Mario Lanza.
Joe was a member of the Knights of Columbus, a lector and Eucharistic Minister at St. Catherine of Sienna Church and a member of UNICO.
More than anything, Joe will be remembered as a kind, fun-loving husband, father, grandfather, sibling and uncle who loved any gathering, holiday, or sporting event that brought his family members together.
He is survived by his wife, Sumiko, Madison Twp.; and daughters, Amelia Santaniello Vascellaro and husband, Frank, Minneapolis; and Michele Pehanick, Moscow; brother, Anthony and wife, Trudy, Roaring Brook; and sisters, Madeline, Dunmore; and Michele Bonifanti and husband, George, Hummelstown; and loving nieces, nephews and cousins. His six beloved grandchildren are Olivia, Chloe and Isabelle Pehanick, and Sam, Joseph and Francesca Vascellaro.
The family would like to thank Fox Chase Cancer Center and Traditional Home Health and Hospice for the loving care given by the doctors and nurses.
Visitation will be:
Wednesday, Jan. 3, 2018, at Duffy and Snowdon Funeral Home, 401 Church St., Moscow, PA 18444, from 4 to 8 p.m.
Mass of Catholic Burial is Thursday, Jan. 4, 2018, at 10 a.m. at St. Catherine of Sienna Church, 220 Church St., Moscow 18444.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to:
St. Joseph’s Center, 2010 Adams Ave., Scranton, PA 18509, or St. Catherine of Sienna Church, Moscow, Pa.
Lena Calciano
December 22, 2017
Born March 4, 1928 in Scranton, daughter of the late Salvatore and Rosa Fusco Casconi, Lena was employed in the local garment industry for many years. She was a member of St. Catherine of Siena Church, Moscow.
Lena was a spiritual woman of great faith, and had tremendous love for her family. She will be dearly missed.
Surviving are her sons, Joseph G. Calciano, Sterling Twp.; and David C. Calciano and wife, Christine, Sterling Twp.; daughters, Sandra Castanaro, Blakeslee; and Carmel Jakubowicz and husband, Frank, Lake Ariel; sister, Lucy Alimecco and husband, Anthony, Flemington, N.J.; six grandchildren, Joseph, Crystal, David; Larissa and son, Kayden; Brielle and Destiny; and several great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews.
A Mass will be celebrated:
Friday at 11 a.m. in St. Catherine of Siena Church, 220 Church St., Moscow.
Interment and committal service will be at St. Catherine’s Cemetery, Covington Twp.
Friends may call:
Thursday from 5 to 8 p.m. at Duffy & Snowdon Funeral Home, 401 Church St., Moscow.
Marlene A. Jakes
December 21, 2017
Born in Scranton, she was the daughter of the late John and Stella Budjinski Chopak Sr. She was a 1959 graduate of Scranton Technical High School and began working for Capital Records after graduation. After marriage, she and her husband moved to Clarks Summit where they raised their two children. Marlene worked many years in the garment industry before retiring to work alongside her husband in their business, Jakes Garage, where she performed office duties.
Marlene looked forward to the many road trips she and Joe would take to the casinos, dining out and generally just spending time together. Among her many talents, Marlene was known for her baking; she was the best around and made the most amazing pies. She took great pride in making the holidays “extra special” by carrying on family traditions. She enjoyed shopping, reading, spending time with her Bishon, Molly, visits with family, especially grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and “game night” with her friends. She will be greatly missed by her family and her beloved Molly.
While she tried, Marlene had great difficulty living after the death of her beloved husband, who died in May. Although she will be missed immensely, it’s comforting to know she is forever reunited with her true love, Joe.
She is survived by a son, Joseph J. Jakes Jr. and wife, Diane, Clarks Summit; daughter, Susan E. Menichiello and husband, Joseph, South Abington Twp.; five grandchildren; Lisa Marie Graves, Joseph Brian Jakes, John Leonard LaBarr, Laura Ann Jakes and Mary Catherine Jakes; six great-grandchildren; nieces, Marilu O’Dell, New Holland, N.Y.; and Roberta Kaszuba, Hamilton, N.J.; nephew, Michael Chopak Jr.; a brother-in-law, Robert Jakes, Ewing, N.J.; sisters-in-law, Katherine Smith, Clarks Summit; and Alice Avery, Honesdale; and a cousin, Carol Beavers, Pittsburgh.
She was also preceded in death by two brothers, John Chopak Jr. and Michael Chopak.
The funeral will be:
Thursday with Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. in St. Gregory’s Catholic Church, Clarks Green.
Interment, Cathedral Cemetery, Scranton, will follow.
Friends may call:
Wednesday from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. at Howard J. Snowdon Funeral Home, 1810 Sanderson Ave., Scranton.
Audrey Te’Ketch
December 21, 2017
Born July 12, 1926, in Scranton, she was the daughter of the late Albert W. and Pearle (Lovelass) Rosar. Audrey was a graduate of Scranton Central High School, and before her retirement she was employed by Bell Atlantic. She was a lifetime member of the Bell Pioneers. She was a member of United Baptist Church in Scranton, served on the Board of Deacons, and served communion — a most-honored task.
Surviving are her daughter, Joelyn S. Neidig of Muncy; her grandsons, Joseph Neidig and wife, Quinn, of Brooklyn, N.Y.; Justin Neidig of New York, N.Y.; and Jordan Neidig of New York, N.Y.; and great-grandchildren, Zadie and Marshall Neidig.
Audrey was also preceded in death by her sister, Beverly Wolff; her brother-in-law, Edward Wolff; and her granddaughters, Jacklyn and Jan.
Funeral services will be conducted:
Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. in the Howard J. Snowdon Funeral Home, 1810 Sanderson Ave., Scranton, with the Rev. Earl Cassel as officiating clergy.
Interment will be conducted at Fairview Memorial Park, Elmhurst Twp.
Friends may call:
Tuesday from 4 until 7 p.m. at the funeral home.
Alfred Sherman
December 20, 2017
Born Dec. 15, 1949, in Scranton, he was the son of the late Harold and Hilda (Lewis) Sherman Sr.
He was previously employed by Allied Services of Scranton.
Surviving are his brothers, Harold Sherman Jr. and Kenneth Sherman; his sister, Ann Cocker and husband, Robert; his stepbrother, George Pringle; stepmother, Betty Sherman; and several nieces and nephews.
A memorial service will be conducted:
Wednesday at 7 p.m. in the Howard J. Snowdon Funeral Home, 1810 Sanderson Ave., Scranton.
Friends may call from:
5 until 7 p.m. at the funeral home.
Memorial contributions can be made to the donor’s choice.
Megan Calpin Hughes
December 17, 2017
Megan Calpin Hughes, 42, of Clarks Summit, died Sunday morning at Hospice of the Sacred Heart Inpatient Unit in Dunmore after a valiant two-year battle with cancer. Her husband is Robert E. Hughes III. The couple was married May 22, 2004.
Born July 9, 1975 in Scranton, she was the daughter of William Jr. and Susan O’Hara Calpin, Scranton. Megan was a 1993 graduate of Scranton Preparatory School. She attended Rosemont College in Philadelphia, and received a Bachelor of Fine Arts in interior design from Marywood University.
Megan was owner of Keen Bean Design LLC, and recipient of Top 25 Women in Business 2011, Northeast Woman of the Week, Top 20 under 40, Dec. 2008 and Kiss My Style Women of Merit 2010 from the University of Scranton.
Surviving in addition to her husband and parents are her children, Hannah Elizabeth Hughes and Harrison Rhys Hughes; her sister, Maggie C. Calpin, Scranton; her paternal grandfather, William J. Calpin Sr., of Scranton; her mother-in-law, Barbara Hughes, of Clarks Summit; and her sister-in-law, Ellen Hughes Marotta and husband, Victor, of Avondale Estates, Ga.; aunts, uncles, cousins; and her nephew, Samuel A. Marotta.
Megan was preceded in death by her sister, Molly Calpin, in 1994; her maternal grandparents, John and Elsie O’Hara; her paternal grandmother, Catherine Poplar; her uncles, Timothy Calpin and Sean Calpin; father-in-law, Robert E. Hughes Jr.; and beloved aunt, Hannah Jones.
A special thank you to Dr. Lisa Thomas, Dr. Megan Haggerty and the nurses and staff of the Hospice of the Sacred Heart for the extraordinary care given to Megan during her illness.
The Liturgy of the Word will be celebrated:
Thursday at 11 a.m. in St. Paul’s Church, 1510 Penn Ave., Scranton.
Interment will be conducted at Clarks Green Cemetery.
Friends may call:
Wednesday from 3 to 7 p.m. at the Howard J. Snowdon Funeral Home, 1810 Sanderson Ave., Scranton.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to:
The Scranton Area Foundation Molly Fund, 615 Jefferson Ave., Scranton, PA 18510.
Gae Valenti
December 12, 2017
Born Aug. 23, 1932, in Scranton, she was the daughter of the late Joseph and Ethel (Kringel) Comstock. She was educated in the Scranton schools, and before her retirement, she was employed by the Mid Valley Hospital in food service.
Gae was fun loving and enjoyed visiting casinos. Her family was her greatest joy, and she will be dearly missed.
Surviving are her children, Frances Czyzyk and husband, Edward; Gae Roedel, Victoria Kizer, Salvatore Valenti and Richard Valenti and wife, Mary Lou, all of Scranton; 10 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; and nieces and nephews.
Gae was preceded in death by her brother, Richard Comstock; her sister, Lorraine Bachman; and her son-in-law, Tony Roedel, in November 2017.
A memorial service will be conducted:
Saturday at 4 p.m. in Howard J. Snowdon Funeral Home, 1810 Sanderson Ave., Scranton, with the Rev. Ginger Daubenhauser as officiating clergy.
Friends may call:
Saturday from 3 until 4 p.m. at the funeral home.
Roger J. Tapson
September 28, 2017
Roger, born in Chicago on Aug. 8, 1950, was a lifelong resident of Southern California and a 1968 graduate of Anaheim High School. Although he missed the Pacific Ocean and watching the sun set over it, Roger loved learning about Pa. and the four seasons on the East Coast, which was new to him. His knowledge of music, literature and film was astonishing, and he was delighted and happy every day to learn and appreciate the music, art and talents of the people in Scranton. He felt every human being was important and should be told they were. You could not stop Roger from communicating with anyone and everyone he met in a positive, complimentary and respectful way.
Roger was a loyal L.A. Dodgers fan, revered Vin Scully and so enjoyed watching his favorite football teams. His life was cut short to finish watching the final games of the L.A. Dodgers’ 2017 exciting season and winning the National League Pennant. But all who knew Roger were honored to watch the games on his behalf and will continue to do so.
Besides the multitude of friends too long to list grieving, yet celebrating Roger’s life and the fortunate camaraderie they shared, most important to Roger is that he spent his final years with Shirley Cieri, his companion and true friend. Having known Roger while living in California several years ago, Shirley invited him to Scranton to renew their friendship and to provide a healthier environment to help ease some of his health issues.
As a result of helping Roger with his transition to Scranton, watching him learn about its histories, and seeing the many communities and beautiful landscapes through his eyes, he left a piece of himself that would make anyone proud to call Scranton and NEPA home.
Roger was one of God’s finest creations. He did not murmur or complain or find fault with God or anyone. He always prayed for other people. In Roger’s memory, we should do one kind act to one person on any given day.
Betty Jane Burnside
December 3, 2017
Born Oct. 1, 1924 in Moosic, she was the daughter of the late Alvia and Sarah (Bailey) Correll. Betty Jane was a longtime member of the Gouldsboro United Methodist Church.
The family would like to extend thanks to the nurses and staff at St. Mary’s Villa for their kind and compassionate care to Betty Jane.
Surviving are her daughter, Betty Jane “Becky” Stout and husband, Theodore, of Clifton Twp.; her son, John A. Burnside and wife, Marge, of High Point, N.C.; five grandchildren, Douglas A. Stout and wife, Linda; Heather Loomis and husband, David; Alex Stout and wife, Stacey; Shawn C. Burnside and wife, Ayla; and Megan Ellison and husband, Joshua; five great-grandchildren, Ava R. Stout, Ruby Stout, Isabella Burnside, Trevor Stout and Vivian Stout; nieces and nephews.
Betty Jane was preceded in death by her sisters, Dorothy McGay and Vera Stull; and her brother, Alvia Correll.
Funeral services will be conducted:
Wednesday at 11 a.m. in Duffy & Snowdon Funeral Home, 401 Church St., Moscow, with Pastor Peg Knapich as officiating clergy.
Interment and committal will be conducted at Fairview Memorial Park, Elmhurst Twp.
Friends may call on:
Wednesday from 9 until 11 a.m. at the funeral home.
Memorial contributions may be made to:
The Gouldsboro United Methodist Church Memorial Fund, 495 Main St., Gouldsboro, PA 18424.
Catherine T. ‘Kate’ Poplar
November 24, 2017
Born Oct. 7, 1926 in Scranton, she was the daughter of the late George H. and Bridget (Kearney) Wolf.
Kate was a 1944 graduate of St. Paul’s High School and was a member of St. Paul’s Parish in Scranton. Kate was employed by Schieber’s Department Store in Scranton before her retirement. Before relocating to Scranton in her retirement years, she resided in the Lancaster area.
Surviving are her sons, William Calpin Jr. of Dunmore and Patrick Calpin of Scranton; daughters, Catherine Hodge of Vero Beach, Fla.; and Bridget Halloran of Clarks Summit; 10 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren; two nieces and a nephew.
She was preceded in death by her sons, Timothy Calpin and Sean Calpin; her sister, Mary Grace Logan; and her granddaughter, Molly Elizabeth Calpin.
A memorial Mass will be celebrated:
Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. in Holy Family Residence Chapel at 2500 Adams Ave., Scranton.
Interment will be conducted at Cathedral Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to:
Little Sisters of the Poor – Scranton at 2500 Adams Ave., Scranton, PA 18509.
Mae M. Shaffer
November 16, 2017
Mae M. Shaffer, 90, of Scranton and formerly of Moscow, died Thursday at Hospice of the Sacred Heart Inpatient Unit in Dunmore following an illness. She is the widow of Frank E. Shaffer who died in 1984.
Born Feb. 12, 1927 in Scranton, she was the daughter of the late James and Mary Jane (Muir) Reid. Mae was educated in the North Pocono schools and was a member of Grace Reformed Presbyterian Church.
Surviving are her sons, Frank Shaffer and wife, RoseAnn, of Moscow; Larry Shaffer and wife, Janice, of Spring Brook Twp.; and Jerry Shaffer and wife, Lorie, of White’s Crossing; her son-in-law, William Legg; 13 grandchildren, 26 great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
Mae was preceded in death by her daughter, Dianne Legg; and her sisters, Alma Smith and Jean Ulkoskie; and her brothers, James, Samuel, Forrest and Alexander “Albert” Reid.
Private visitation and services will be conducted on Monday in Duffy & Snowdon Funeral Home, 401 Church St., Moscow.
Interment and committal will be conducted at Fairview Memorial Park, Elmhurst Twp.
Memorial contributions can be made to the donor’s choice
Roger J. Tapson
September 28, 2017
Roger, born in Chicago on Aug. 8, 1950, was a lifelong resident of Southern California and a 1968 graduate of Anaheim High School. Although he missed the Pacific Ocean and watching the sun set over it, Roger loved learning about Pa. and the four seasons on the East Coast, which was new to him. His knowledge of music, literature and film was astonishing, and he was delighted and happy every day to learn and appreciate the music, art and talents of the people in Scranton. He felt every human being was important and should be told they were. You could not stop Roger from communicating with anyone and everyone he met in a positive, complimentary and respectful way.
Roger was a loyal L.A. Dodgers fan, revered Vin Scully and so enjoyed watching his favorite football teams. His life was cut short to finish watching the final games of the L.A. Dodgers’ 2017 exciting season and winning the National League Pennant. But all who knew Roger were honored to watch the games on his behalf and will continue to do so.
Besides the multitude of friends too long to list grieving, yet celebrating Roger’s life and the fortunate camaraderie they shared, most important to Roger is that he spent his final years with Shirley Cieri, his companion and true friend. Having known Roger while living in California several years ago, Shirley invited him to Scranton to renew their friendship and to provide a healthier environment to help ease some of his health issues.
As a result of helping Roger with his transition to Scranton, watching him learn about its histories, and seeing the many communities and beautiful landscapes through his eyes, he left a piece of himself that would make anyone proud to call Scranton and NEPA home.
Roger was one of God’s finest creations. He did not murmur or complain or find fault with God or anyone. He always prayed for other people. In Roger’s memory, we should do one kind act to one person on any given day.
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Betty C. YackamovichNovember 15, 2017 |
| Betty C. Yackamovich, 95, of Scranton, died Wednesday at Mountain View Care Center in Scranton after an illness. She was the widow of Joseph C. Yackamovich, who died in 1971.
Born Oct. 7, 1922, daughter of the late DeVere and Mertie Benedict Gager, Betty was a graduate of Scranton Technical High School and was a longtime member of the Court Street United Methodist Church. Betty worked in the textile industry, as well as Oppenheim’s Scranton Dry Goods and Wes Freidman. The family would like to send special thanks to Dr. Emma Rubin, and the nurses and staff at Mountain View Care Center, especially the Magical Court. Surviving are her daughter, Susan M. Kincel and husband, James, Scranton; brother, Donald Gager, New York; daughter-in-law, Arlene; grandchildren, Lisa Lloyd and husband, William, Joseph; Daniel; David and wife, Stephanie; James Kincel Jr. and wife, Jennifer; Katherine Shoemaker and husband, Jacob; great-grandchildren, David Jr., Nicole, Cameron and Kepler; and nieces and nephews. She was also preceded in death by her son, Joseph R. Yackamovich; sister, Marion Schirg; and brother, Reed C. Gager. Funeral services will be: Interment and committal services will be at Fairview Memorial Park. Friends may call on: |
Bruce B. Whitehead
November 14, 2017
Bruce was a Army veteran who was proud of his military service.
Bruce was proficient and well-respected by his peers in many different career paths, including military air traffic controller, startup engineer for nuclear power plants, system operator for the prototype plant for destruction of chemical weapons on Johnston Island and as a project manager for various environmental cleanup projects.
Bruce enjoyed traveling with his wife, Cindy. They shared many moments of laughter and wonderment in numerous locations throughout the world.
Bruce loved life and lived it to the fullest. He was a gentle man who was liked by everyone who met him. Bruce had a smile that would light up a room. His southern accent enchanted many people, and they could listen to him talk for hours.
He is survived by his wife, Cindy Collins, Jefferson Twp.; his mother, Carrie Whitehead, Tenn.; sister, Victoria Hearon, Tennessee; sister, Sherry Patterson, Georgia; brother and sister-in-law, Gary and Denise Collins, Florida; aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Bruce Whitehead.
Visitation will be held:
Friday, 17 November at Duffy & Snowdon Funeral Home, Church St., Moscow, from 4 to 7 p.m.
Funeral services will be held on:
Saturday, 18 November at 11 a.m. at Light of Christ Church, Moosic Lake Road, Jefferson Twp.
Friends may call before service from 10 to 11 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to:
Light of Christ Church, 2071 Moosic Lake Road, Jefferson Twp., PA 18436, or
Griffin Pond Animal Shelter, 967 Griffin Pond Road, Clarks Summit, PA 18411.
Mary ‘Romayne’ O’Neill
November 13, 2017
Born Dec. 4, 1929 in Scranton, daughter of the late John and Helen Ratchford Dougherty, she graduated from Holy Rosary High School and was an active lifelong member of Mary, Mother of God Parish in Scranton. She also was a member of the Catholic Women’s Club and the women’s society of Holy Rosary Church. Before her retirement, she was employed by Oak Inc. At home, she was an avid college basketball fan, and she enjoyed talking to neighbors on her front porch, as well as needle pointing and completing puzzles. Romayne will forever be remembered as a loving and compassionate mother, grandmother and great-grandmother who dedicated herself to her family.
She is survived by her three daughters, Peggy Kelly and her husband, Jack, Dunmore; Kathy Ruthkosky, Scranton; and Mamie Eckenrode and her husband, Bill, Scranton; sister, Helen McGuire and husband, A.J.; brothers-in-law, William O’Neill and wife, Sue; and Donald Mayer; sister-in-law, Pat O’Neill; grandchildren, Katie and Tim Millett, Lynn and Nadya Popil, and Jack Kelly; great-grandchildren, Jake, Gabe, Ben and Piper; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.
She was also preceded in death by her son, Frank T. O’Neill Jr.; and son-in-law, Robert Ruthkosky.
The family would like to extend thanks to her caregivers Elena, Peggy, Caroline, Tish, Amanda, Paula, Carol and the staff at Life Geisinger for their wonderful care and compassion.
A Mass will be celebrated:
Thursday at 9:30 a.m. in Mary, Mother of God Parish, 316 William St., Scranton. Interment and committal will be conducted in Cathedral Cemetery.
Friends may call:
Wednesday from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Howard J. Snowdon Funeral Home, 1810 Sanderson Ave., Scranton.
If attending the funeral Mass, please go directly to the church.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to:
Family to Family, P.O. Box 13, Scranton, PA 18503; or
Life Geisinger, 2300 Adams Ave. Scranton, PA 18509.
Daniel A. Setzer, Jr.
November 5, 2017
Born Aug. 1, 1944 in Scranton, he was the son of the late Daniel Sr. and Gladys (McLain) Setzer. Before his retirement, Dan was employed as a carpenter with local union 645. In his early years he helped run his family’s diary business in Moscow.
He was a member of Moscow United Methodist Church, Moscow Lodge 504, American Legion Post of Moscow and the Minisink Lions Club.
Surviving are his children, Todd D. Setzer, Moscow; Lynn Merrill and husband, James, Moscow; and Lisa Slife and husband, Jeff, Lakeville; sister, Ruth Woodbridge and husband, Leo, Topton, Pa.; seven grandchildren, Lisa Setzer, Alicia Setzer, Laura Borer, Kelly Mulholland, TJ Setzer, Kaitlyn Setzer and Elizabeth Slife; six great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild; and many nieces and nephews.
He was also preceded in death by his brother, Arnold Setzer; and his former wife, Carolyn M. (Trapper) Sems.
Funeral services will be:
Friday at 10 a.m. in Duffy & Snowdon Funeral Home, 401 Church St., Moscow.
Friends may call on:
Thursday from 5 to 9 p.m. at the funeral home.
Masonic funeral rites will be conducted Thursday at 5:45.
Debbie A. Rokita
October 31, 2017
Born July 1, 1959, in Scranton, she is the daughter of the late Robert and JoAnne (King) Maher. Debbie was educated in the Scranton schools and was employed by the Scranton School District.
Debbie was a lifelong member of Holy Rosary Church of Mary, Mother of God Parish in Scranton.
Debbie was the matriarch of our family. Her family was of utmost importance. Debbie always prepared delicious meals, and holiday gatherings were her niche. She enjoyed motorcycling with her husband and even drove her own bike. She enjoyed volunteering in the snack shack at the North Scranton Vikings field, where she kept her hot sauce recipe a secret. You could find Debbie around town with her sidekick, Leonard, and her nieces who were her pride and joy.
The family would like to thank the staff, doctors and nurses of the ICU at Moses Taylor Hospital, Hospice Compassionate Care, and to Oradell Banker for her patience and kindness through our difficult time.
In addition to her husband, she is survived by her brother, Thomas Maher and wife, Lynn; aunts, uncles; brother and sisters-in- law; beloved nieces and nephews; and cousins.
She was preceded in death by her brothers, Robert “Peg” Maher and Frankie “Shooter” Maher.
A Mass will be celebrated:
Friday at 9:30 a.m. in Mary, Mother of God Parish, 316 William St., Scranton.
Interment and committal service will be conducted at Cathedral Cemetery, Scranton.
Friends may call:
Today from 4 until 8 p.m. in the Howard J. Snowdon Funeral Home, 1810 Sanderson Ave., Scranton.
Eleanor A. Cottrell
October 26, 2017
Eleanor A. Cottrell, 95, of Scranton died Thursday at The Meadows in Scranton following an illness. She is the widow of Willis L. Cottrell.
A lifelong resident of Scranton, Eleanor was a member of Mary, Mother of God Parish in Scranton. She was a devoted mother and grandmother, dedicating her life to her family.
Surviving are her children, Willis L. Cottrell and wife, Beverly, of Alba, Texas; Kenneth Cottrell and wife, Judith, of Morriston, Fla.; Ada Messenger of Scranton and James P. Cottrell of Meshoppen; four grandchildren, David Cottrell, Jeffrey Cottrell, David Froncek and Eddie Froncek; 12 great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren.
She was also preceded in death by her sister, Ann, and her son-in-law, Henry Messenger.
A Mass will be celebrated:
Tuesday at 9:30 a.m. in Holy Rosary Church, 316 William St., Scranton.
Interment and committal will be conducted at Cathedral Cemetery, Scranton.
Friends may call today, October 30th, from 5 until 8 p.m. in the Howard J. Snowdon Funeral Home, 1810 Sanderson Ave., Scranton.
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Grace M. PreslockOctober 19, 2017 |
| Grace M. Preslock passed peacefully into the arms of our Lord on Thursday at the Dunmore Health Care Center following a long illness.
Surviving are her daughter, Lola M. Chacona, of Roaring Brook Twp.; her sister, Doris Crouse Wilmont, NB Canada; her companion of 17 years, Edward C. Massakowski, of Avoca, Pa.; sister-in-law, Joey Moore, Halifax, NS Canada; nieces, nephews and their families. She was preceded in death by her brother, Gerald Moore. Grace’s family would like to thank the staff of Dunmore Health Care Center and Personal Home Health and Hospice for their special care; along with Patrick and Lisa from Interim Home Health. Services and interment will be conducted privately at Fairview Memorial Park, Elmhurst Twp., Pa. |
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Bruce Warren MausOctober 15, 2017 |
| Bruce Warren Maus, 93, a resident at Allied Skilled Care in Scranton, and formerly a resident of the Green Ridge section of Scranton, died Sunday morning following an illness. He was preceded in death by his wife, the former Ruth Eshelman, on Nov. 15, 2014.
Born March 31, 1924 in Scranton, he was the son of the late Howard and Anna (Gray) Maus. Bruce was educated in the Scranton schools, and before his retirement he was employed by Adams Manor Nursing Home in Scranton. He was a former member of Trinity Baptist Church in Scranton and a longtime New York Yankees fan. Surviving are his sons, Bruce W. Maus and wife, Denise, of West Haven, Conn.; Gary Maus and wife, Donna, of Durham, Conn.; five grandchildren, Kyle Maus, Bruce Maus, Jerry Maus, Taylor Maus and Bailey Maus; two great-grandchildren, Jeremiah and Ethan McGrath. Funeral services will be conducted: Interment and committal will be conducted at Fairview Memorial Park, Elmhurst Twp. Friends may call on: |
James F. Huff, Sr.
October 14, 2017
Born Sept. 13, 1939 in Scranton, he was the son of the late Frank and Margaret (Bell) Huff Sr. James was a graduate of the University of Scranton and received his master’s degree from Fordham University in New York. Before his retirement, he was employed as executive director of St. Michael’s School in Tunkhannock and had previously worked extensively in many areas of social services.
Surviving are his sons, James F. Huff Jr. and Janice Brousseau of Houston, Texas; and Jeffrey Huff and wife, Kristine, of Montreal, Canada; his sisters, Mary Elizabeth Zielinski and husband, Gerald, of Connecticut; Margaret A. Davie of Ohio; his brothers, Frank Huff Jr., Thomas Huff and wife, Joan, of Pennsylvania; and William Huff and wife, Cathy, of New Jersey; and grandchildren, Meghan, Lauren, Riley, James III, Sarah; and several nieces and nephews. James is also survived by his dear friend Ann Phillips of Scranton.
His sister, Ann (Huff) Jaskot, also preceded him in death.
A Mass will be celebrated:
Thursday at 10 a.m. in St. Catherine of Siena Church, 220 Church St., Moscow.
Internment will be conducted in St. Catherine’s Cemetery, Covington Twp.
Friends may call on:
Wednesday from 4 until 7 p.m. in Duffy & Snowdon Funeral Home, 401 Church St., Moscow.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to:
The American Cancer Society, 1101 Hill St., Jessup, PA 18434.
Edward E. Germek
October 13, 2017
Born July 30, 1932 in Scranton, son of the late Michael and Anna Smeriga Germek, Ed was an Army veteran serving from 1949 until 1952 during the Korean War. Ed was employed at Sugermans Eynon Drug for 37 years as assistant store manager, and after retirement, United Check Cashing, Scranton for 14 years.
He was a member of Sacred Heart of Jesus Church, Peckville, and was a life member of the VFW Shopa-Davey Post in Peckville. Ed was a proud member and past master of Moscow Lodge 504.
Ed was an antique auto enthusiast, an avid fisherman and loved flea markets. He was a gifted wood craftsman who made his own grandfather clock. Ed was known for his sense of humor, optimistic and friendly demeanor, and enjoyed his coffee klatch with his group.
Also surviving are his sons, Gregory E. Germek, Duryea; Jeffrey P. Germek, Scranton; William J. Germek, Dickson City; and Richard E. Germek and wife, Elaine, San Antonio, Texas; granddaughter, Helena Williams and husband, Joseph; two great-grandsons, Ayden and Ethen; and his nephew, Stanley Bordan.
A blessing service will be:
Wednesday at 8 p.m. from the Howard J. Snowdon Funeral Home, 1810 Sanderson Ave., Scranton.
Friends may call on:
Wednesday from 5 to service time.
A Masonic service will be conducted at 7.
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Joseph GouveiaOctober 10, 2017 |
| Joseph Gouveia, 86, of Pocono Summit died Tuesday evening at St. Luke’s Hospital — Monroe Campus following an illness. His wife is the former Brigitte Huber.
Born Jan. 24, 1931 in Scranton, he was the son of the late Jose and Rose Gouveia. He was educated in the Scranton schools. Joseph was retired as an Air Force senior master sergeant following a distinguished 28-year career. He was of the Catholic faith. A few years after the early death of his father from the black lung disease, Joseph began his military career to help support his widowed mother and three younger siblings. He enlisted in the Army and was trained as a tank mechanic serving nine years at various posts throughout the world before being honorably discharged. He then took a year off to hunt and fish in his beloved eastern Pennsylvania woods and waterways before enlisting in the Air Force where he served as commander of various communications sites throughout Europe and the Far East. In 1959 in Germany, he married Brigitte who shared his military life until he retired from the military in 1976. A year later he and his wife and daughter moved to the Poconos where he began his civilian life working in electronics at Tobyhanna Army Depot until his final retirement almost 20 years later. He will be remembered as an intelligent, loyal and fair man who loved his country and family unconditionally. Joseph lived a full and adventurous life, earning the respect of many who came to know him for his sage advice and quirky sense of humor. Surviving in addition to his wife are his daughter, Diana Kikel and husband, John, of Belle Vernon; and his sister, Mary White of Scranton; his grandson, Nathaniel Kikel; and nieces and nephews. A blessing service will be conducted: Interment and military honors will be conducted at Cathedral Cemetery, Scranton. Friends may call on: |
June M. Sanford
October 2, 2017
Born June 24, 1934 in Scranton, daughter of the late Matthew C. and Margaret Kanyock Leskawa, June was a graduate of Scranton Central High School, Drew University in Madison, N.J. and Paterson State Teachers College. She had additional studies at Pugent Sound University in Washington state.
June was employed for 23 years as a teacher in New Jersey, teaching English as a Second Language, and as a piano instructor. She was a former member of the Green Ridge Presbyterian Church in Scranton, and was a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Clarks Summit.
Surviving are her nieces, Deborah Zaleski and Janet Leskawa; and many friends.
She was also preceded in death by her brothers, Ronald Leskawa and Richard Leskawa.
Memorial services will be conducted privately at the convenience of friends and family.
Interment will be conducted at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery, Annville.
Memorial contributions may be made to:
Griffin Pond Animal Shelter, 967 Griffin Pond Road, Clarks Summit, PA 18411; or
The Little Red Dog House, 320 Northern Blvd., South Abington Twp,. PA 18411.
Keith R. Ives
October 3, 2017
Born May 14, 1972 in Scranton, Keith was the son of Harry R. and Ann Marie (Pehanick) Ives of Moscow. Keith was a graduate of North Pocono High School, after which he was employed at Consolidated Freight until 2002 and was then employed for many years by New Penn Motor Express of Dunmore. He was a member of St. Catherine of Siena Church in Moscow.
Surviving in addition to his wife and parents are his children, Christian and Anya; his sister, Kim Hart; nephew, Jake Hart; niece and godchild, Julia Hart, also of Sterling Twp.; his grandparents, Harry and Ann (Gillick) Pehanick, of Roaring Brook Twp.; his father-in-law, Frederick Kiwak and wife, Suzanne, of Harding; his mother-in-law, Linda Marchakitus and husband, Mark, of Plymouth; and stepmother-in-law, Theresa Kiwak, of Falls; aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Harry and Marguerite (Moore) Ives.
Keith was a truck driver his entire adult life and could never picture himself doing anything else. He loved all things old and antique, especially trucks and tractors. Fall was his favorite time of year and to be out on the Susquehanna fishing with his children during this time was something he truly loved. He also loved his Victory motorcycle, taking long relaxing rides whenever he could. Keith was a good man with a big heart and if you were his friend, you were a lucky person. He will be missed by everyone who knew him and every memory with him will be cherished.
A blessing service will be conducted:
Sunday at 5 p.m. at Duffy & Snowdon Funeral Home, 401 Church St., Moscow, Pa.
Friends may call on:
Sunday from 2 p.m. until 5 p.m. at the funeral home.
Memorial contributions may be made to the donor’s choice in Keith’s memory.
Edith Mae Shaffer
October 2, 2017
Born Feb. 27, 1937 in Scranton, daughter of the late Charles and Edith Haines Hannon, Edith was employed in her younger years in the garment industry and had been employed by Elby’s Big Boy, and Bill’s Shoprite.
Edith was a member of the Moscow United Methodist Church.
Surviving are her daughter, Tammy L. McCracken and husband, Joseph, Moscow; son, Timothy Shaffer and wife, Lorraine, Covington Twp.; grandsons, J.T. McCracken and wife, Crystal; and Daniel McCracken; great-grandchildren, Jaxon and Brooklyn; and nieces and nephews.
She was also preceded in death by her brothers, John Hannon and Charles Hannon; and sisters, Elizabeth Hannon and Margaret “Peggy” Jacobs.
Funeral services will be:
Friday at noon in Duffy & Snowdon Funeral Home, 401 Church St., Moscow.
Interment will be at Fairview Memorial Park, Elmhurst Twp.
Edwin P. Biefeldt
October 2, 2017
Born June 22, 1915 in Scranton, son of Charles and Stella Fries Biefeldt, Ed was a Navy veteran serving during World War II. He was employed many years at Grove Textiles as a foreman, and was a well known bus driver, on Bus 1 for 55 years in the North Pocono School District.
Surviving are his daughters, Diana S. Davis, Elmhurst Twp.; and Gale C. Davis, Throop; six grandchildren, James Davis and wife, Monica; Diana L. Witkowski and husband, Richard; Mark Davis, Edwin Davis; Denise Daggers and husband, Duane; and Danielle Kitchell and husband, JR; 10 great-grandchildren, Jeffrey Daggers, Hannah Kitchell, Ryan Kitchell, Duane Daggers, Jordan Daggers, Sierra Love, Colleen Davis-McKnight, Brandi Love, Cory Witkowski and Kcee Davis; great-great-granddaughter, Alison DeLucia; and many nieces and nephews.
He was also preceded in death by his daughter, Linda Biefeldt; grandsons, Joseph Davis, Jeffrey Davis and Richard Witkowski; brothers and sisters, Frederick, Gertrude, Paul, Jeanetta, Wilberth, Allegra, Iva, Elizabeth, Marion, Raymond, Eleanor and Charles.
Funeral services will be:
Saturday at 10:30 a.m. in Duffy & Snowdon Funeral Home, 401 Church St., Moscow.
Interment and military honors will be at Fairview Memorial Park, Elmhurst Twp.
Friends may call:
Friday, 5 to 8 p.m., at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to:
Wounded Warrior Project, 4899 Belfort Road, Suite 300, Jacksonville, FL 32256
Rev. Arthur W. Davis
September 22, 2017
Rev. Davis was a 1951 graduate of Scranton Technical High School and proudly served in the Army, serving with the 141st Tank Battalion in Hanau, Germany. Following his time in the military, Rev. Davis was employed as a book binder at Haddon Craftsman until he advanced his career to become a binder of the Scriptures when he was ordained in 1968. He was a graduate of the University of Scranton and Wesley Divinity College in Washington, D.C.
Rev. Davis served several churches in the United Methodist Conference including the First United Methodist Church in Jermyn, Maplewood/Cortez United Methodist Churches, Embury United Methodist Church in Scranton, Carbondale United Methodist Church, Warren Center United Methodist Church in Bradford County and Asbury/Providence United Methodist Churches of Scranton.
After his retirement in 2003, Rev. Davis was pastor at First Congregational Church in Taylor and was reassigned to the Asbury United Methodist Church in 2006. As of July 2017, he started his 50th year in the ministry.
Rev. Davis was a member of the Welsh Preservation Society of Lackawanna County and Acadia Lodge of Taylor. He was a longtime member of St. David’s Society and was recognized for his outstanding contribution and dedication to the preservation of Welsh heritage in Northeast Pennsylvania in 2015. He served many years as the toastmaster for the St. David’s Society’s banquets. Always known for his wit, he brought many smiles and laughter to that event.
Surviving are his children, Arthur K. Davis and wife, Deborah, of Throop; Nancy C. Guzzi and husband, Joseph, of Carbondale; grandchildren, Arthur K. Davis Jr. and wife, Krista; Karen Horvath and husband, Matthew; Joseph A. Guzzi and Paul S. Guzzi; great-grandchildren, Brayden, Matthew B., Abby and Michael; his sisters, Romaine Ray and Marion Bird; and his brother, Donald Davis; brother-in-law, Jack Bambach and wife, Dorothy; and sister-in-laws, Sally Bambach, Jan Davis and Barbara Bambach; several nieces, nephews and cousins and dear friends.
In addition to his wife, Rev. Davis was preceded in death by his son, Scott W. Davis; and his brothers, Robert “Bob” Davis and Willard Davis; and several sisters and brothers-in-law.
Funeral services will be conducted:
Tuesday at 9:30 a.m. in the Asbury United Methodist Church, Monsey Ave. and Delaware St., Scranton, Pa.
Friends may call:
At the church on Monday from 4 until 9 p.m.
Interment will be conducted privately at Sandy Banks Cemetery – Greenfield Twp., Pa.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to:
Wounded Warrior Project, 4899 Belfort Road, Suite 300 Jacksonville, FL 32256, or
The Make A Wish Foundation Professional Arts Building, 327 N. Washington Ave. #501, Scranton, PA 18505.
Margaret E. Fletcher
September 17, 2017
Margaret E. Fletcher, 82, of Scranton, died Sept. 17 at the Jewish Home of Eastern Pa., where she was a guest.
Born Nov. 4, 1934 in Scranton, daughter of the late John Earl and Ruth N. Sponsler Purcell, Margaret was a graduate of Scranton Central High School and was employed by Clinical Labs in Scranton before retirement. Margaret enjoyed traveling and spending time with her family. She was a longtime member of the Elm Park United Methodist Church.
Margaret’s family would like to extend thanks to the nursing staff at the Jewish Home for the outstanding care provided and to the wonderful staff at Compassionate Care Hospice for their love and care to Margaret.
Surviving are her son, John Stephen Fletcher, Scranton; sister, Jane Griffiths and husband, Linn, Dalton; nieces and nephews including Douglas Griffiths, Darren Griffiths; Lisa Machell and daughter, Mackenzie; Ruth and Jeff Nowicki and family, John and Sue Garvey and family; and several great-nieces and great-nephews.
She was also preceded in death by her longtime companion, Dr. Edward Skovira; and her sister, Shirley Houseman.
A memorial service will be:
Oct. 7 at 11 a.m. in the Elm Park United Methodist Church chapel, 712 Linden St., Scranton.
Interment and committal will follow at Abington Hills Cemetery.
Friends may call:
Oct. 7 from 9 to service time at the church chapel.
Memorial contributions may be made to:
The Jewish Home of Eastern Pa., 1101 Vine St., Scranton, PA 18510; or
Compassionate Care Hospice, 960 N. Main Ave., Scranton, PA 18508.
September 15, 2017
He was a graduate of the University of Detroit with a degree in mechanical engineering. He was a graduate of the San Francisco Theological Seminary and Boston University, receiving a master’s degree in theology.
Before his retirement, Rev. Shontz served as pastor at the First Congregational United Church of Christ in West Pittston and the Minor Congregational Church of Plains, Pa. His ministry spanned 58 years, serving churches in Utah, Weld, Maine, and for many years in Blackstone and Leominster, Mass., and Jackson, Mich.
Rev. Shontz had a lifelong passion for model airplanes, boats, cars and woodworking. He had a miniature furniture business, known for his exceptional detail and craftsmanship.
Surviving are his wife, the former Susan Weinschenk; his son, Wayne K. Shontz III and wife, Lisa, of Reading, Vt.; his daughter, Christine L. Fortin and companion, John, of Lisbon, Maine; his sister, Suzanne Schwark of Minnesota; his grandchildren, Gabriella and Maria Shontz, and Michael and Timothy Fortin; his stepchildren, Robert C. Bresser and wife, Lori; Frederick A. Bresser, Carlene E. Nichols and husband, Michael; Sandra L. Bird and husband, Robert; and Ruth A. Filarsky; 17 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his first wife, Marion Morton Shontz in 1979; and his grandson, David Fortin; and his sisters, Nancy Schwiekert and Edith Earhart.
A memorial service will be conducted:
Saturday, Sept. 23, at 11 a.m. in Covenant Presbyterian Church, 550 Madison Ave., Scranton, Pa., with the Rev. Scott Loomer, pastor, as officiating clergy. Reception to follow.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to:
Heifer International, P.O. Box 8055, Little Rock, AR 72203.
Willard D. Williams Jr.
September 15, 2017
Will was retired from the Painter Union Local 218. He loved working around the house and was a true craftsman; he took pride in everything he did. He was a lover of music and enjoyed listening to his many audio systems. He loved cars and loved driving his antique 1994 Ford Mustang. He was very fashionable and was always a sharp dressed man. What he loved most was helping his family and friends and always wanted to do more for everyone. We are honored to say that there will be a Mass in Willard’s honor at St. Peter’s Basilica, Vatican City, Italy.
Surviving are his fiancée and love of his life, Patricia A. White of Greenfield Twp.; his daughters, Rebecca Kulesa and husband, Paul, of Cape Coral, Fla.; and Jennifer L. Stalica and husband, Mark, of Scranton, Pa.; his former wife, Patricia A. Bell of Scranton; his grandchildren, Kayla and Liam Kulesa; and Nicholas, Joshua and Abigail Stalica; his sister, Gail O’Malley and husband, Jim, of Apex, N.C.; his brothers, Ronald Williams and wife, Jennifer, of Clarks Summit; Kenneth Williams and wife, Ruth, of Scranton; and Thomas Williams and wife, Christen, of Clarks Summit; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his sister, Peggy Hanis.
A memorial and celebration of life service will be conducted:
Saturday at 4 p.m. in the Howard J. Snowdon Funeral Home, 1810 Sanderson Ave., Scranton, Pa.
Friends will be received:
Saturday from 2 until 4 p.m. at the funeral home.
Sheila R. Merritt
September 15, 2017
Born in Scranton, she was the daughter of the late Albert D. and Bonnie (June) Merritt. Sheila was a 1990 graduate of Mid Valley High School. In her younger years, Sheila was employed as a clerk and deli manager at Wal-Mart.
Sheila was a kind and gentle person who cared for and helped everyone. She was able to make you laugh and put a smile on your face. She enjoyed spending time tending her garden and flowers. Sheila’s greatest accomplishment in life was being a mother to her daughter, Autumn. She always loved and weathered all the storms with and for her daughter.
Surviving are her fiancee, Frank Yanchik; her daughter, Autumn; her sisters, Shari Menichello and husband, Paul; Bobbie-Jo Merritt and fiancee, Victor; her brothers, Michael Merritt and wife, Venus; and Norman Merritt and wife, Ashley; 13 nieces and nephews; and two great-nephews.
A celebration of life service will be conducted:
Thursday at noon in the Howard J. Snowdon Funeral Home, 1810 Sanderson Ave., Scranton.
Interment will follow the service in Dunmore Cemetery, Dunmore.
Friends will be received on:
Thursday from 10 a.m. until noon at the funeral home.
Memorial contributions can be made to the donor’s choice.
Melvin V. Cobb
September 10, 2017
Born July 19, 1930, in Archbald, he was the son of the late Victor and Josephine Dippel Cobb. Melvin was an Army veteran serving with the 82nd Airborne Division. Before his retirement, he was employed as an electrician at the Tobyhanna Army Depot.
Surviving are his daughter, Cheryl Fenwick and husband, Ed, Gouldsboro; sister, Audrey Roman and husband, Carl, Harrisburg, N.C.; granddaughter, Tammy L. Bray, Emerson, N.J.; great-grandson, Dillon M. Bray; nephews, Carl Roman Jr., Dale Roman and Douglas Roman; niece, Kathy Cobb; cousin, Linda Frank and husband, Robert, Gouldsboro; and several other nieces and nephews.
He was also preceded in death by his brother, Norval Cobb.
Funeral services will be conducted privately at the convenience of the family.
Beverly Jantzi (Kidd)
September 9, 2017
Beve was born Aug. 20, 1970 in Hutchinson, Kan., the daughter of Robert Lee Kidd and Sharon Marie Allen. Beve was the youngest of seven children. Her siblings, including Cathy, Jerry, LaDonna, Misty, Robert and Teresa, loved her dearly.
Beve dedicated her time to her family, especially her grandchildren, Chloe, Kaiden and Zoey. They were her pride and joy. Additionally, Beve enjoyed arts and crafts, campfires, and spending time with family and friends. Beve was a kind and generous person who lived with her heart on her sleeve.
Prior to her chronic illness, Beve worked passionately as a nurse’s aide. She always enjoyed helping people in any way possible. Even through heartaches, such as the loss of her fiancé, Francis A. Seng Jr., she remained strong and supportive to all around her. She will be missed most by her daughters, Sheenah N. Jantzi, Tiffany R. Jantzi and Ariel D. Duden (Jantzi).
A memorial gathering will be held for family and friends to cherish the memory of Beverly Jantzi, a loving and caring mother, grandmother, sister, daughter, aunt and friend, will be announced at a later date.
Brittany Nicole Raymond
September 2, 2017
Brittany was born on Feb. 6, 1991 in Jacksonville, N.C., grew up in Roaring Brook Twp., Pa., and (most recently) resided in Brodheadsville, Pa. She graduated from North Pocono High School in 2009, and attended Lackawanna College and Penn State University, studying biology.
She was the daughter of Kimberly (Rutsky) Raymond and her companion, Brian K. Hannis, of Naples, Fla.; and father, Nicholas Russell Raymond, of Effort, Pa. She was the maternal granddaughter of Dolores (Soroka) Rutsky and William Rutsky, of Brodheadsville, Pa.; as well as Marcy (Atkinson) and Nicholas Victor Raymond, of Effort.
She is also survived by her younger sister and best friend, Kourtney Marie Raymond, of Fort Lauderdale, Fla. She leaves behind the love of her life, her beautiful 17-month old daughter, Madison Marie.
Brittany was an avid computer buff, she loved her Star Wars, making up silly yet profound anecdotes for her friends, and driving her flashy red sports car. She had the kindest heart and would help anyone she met. Her laugh was contagious and she was so full of energy.
The family would like to send a sincere thank you to Dr. Paul Arkless and nurse, Brittany Gresh, R.N. and the entire ICU staff at Geisinger Wyoming Valley for their gentle and loving care in her final days.
Brittany was an organ donor and through the Gift of Life (Philadelphia), she was able to save five other lives.
A celebration of life service will be conducted:
Friday at 8 p.m. in Duffy & Snowdon Funeral Home, 401 Church St., Moscow, Pa.
Friends may call on:
Friday for viewing and visitation from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family is asking a donation be made for her daughter (Madison Marie’s) educational fund at Madison M. Isernia Benefit Donation Fund c/o Wells Fargo Bank, 130 Wyoming Ave, Scranton, PA 18503 or you can drop off a donation at any Wells Fargo Bank branch.
Debra Ann Lynott
September 2, 2017
Born June 16, 1960 in Scranton, daughter of the late Robert and Constantine Cutro Sheridan, Debra was employed by Cigna Insurance Co. and attended Immaculate Conception Church in Scranton.
Also surviving are her daughter, Nicole M. Hughes, Scranton; son, Shawn P. Hughes and fiancée, Kathryn Singleton, Scranton; brothers, Patrick Sheridan and wife, Robin, Covington Twp.; and Robert Sheridan and wife, Marlene, Scranton; stepdaughter, Tiffany Lynott; stepson, Martin Lynott; seven grandchildren; and nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be:
Friday at 10:30 a.m. from the Howard J. Snowdon Funeral Home, 1810 Sanderson Ave., Scranton.
Interment, Cathedral Cemetery, Scranton.
Friends may call:
Thursday, 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m., at the funeral home.
Memorial contributions may be made to the donor’s choice.
Barbara A. Montgomery
August 28, 2017
She was born Sept. 26, 1939 in Scranton. She was the daughter of the late Arthur and Marion Hochreiter.Barbara was a longtime member of the Providence United Presbyterian Church in Scranton. She enjoyed working in her flower gardens and taking care of the children in her family.The visits from her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren were the joy of her life.
The family would like to thank Traditional Hospice and Allied In-Home for their services and care.
Surviving in addition to her husband are her children, Tamara L. Pierre of East Benton Twp., Dawn A. Richards of Dalton and J. William Montgomery III and wife, Penny, of Lake Kasoag, N.Y.; her grandchildren, J.D. Pierre, Chris Pierre, J. William Montgomery IV, Neil A. Montgomery, Nicole Levensailor, Neil Levensailor, Nancy Levensailor and Daniel W. Richards; six great-grandchildren and nieces and nephews.
Barbara was also preceded in death by her brothers, Russell and Edward Hochreiter.
Funeral services will be conducted:
Friday at 10 a.m. in the Providence United Presbyterian Church, 1145 Providence Road, Scranton, with the Rev. Dr. Murray Thompson, pastor, as officiating clergy.
Interment will be conducted at Fairview Memorial Park, Elmhurst Twp.
Friends may call on:
Thursday from 4 until 8 p.m. in the Howard J. Snowdon Funeral Home, 1810 Sanderson Ave., Scranton.
Memorial contributions can be made to:
The Providence United Presbyterian Church, 1145 Providence Road, Scranton, PA 18508.
Albert W. Snyder Jr.
August 28, 2017
Born June 26, 1965 in Scranton, he is the son of June C. Black of Covington Twp. and the late Albert W. Snyder Sr. He was a graduate of North Pocono High School and was a member of Moscow Lodge # 504. He attended Daleville United Methodist Church.
Albert was affectionately known as “Big Al” and was loved by all. He had a “heart of gold” and would do anything for anyone. He had a great love for animals, especially his cats. Albert was self-employed in construction for many years.
Albert’s family wants to break the silence of addiction. This demon is still out there waiting to take another life. We pray one life can be saved by breaking the silence.
Surviving in addition to his mother are his brothers, Alby L. Black Jr. of Madison Twp.; Kurt L. Black and wife, Marietta, of Florida; Richard D. Black of Covington Twp.; and his sister, Adele Smith and husband, George, of Hermitage, Pa.; cousins, aunts, uncles and nieces and nephews.
He is also survived by his companion, Kathleen Curtis.
He was preceded in death by his sister-in-law, Anna Black, in 2016.
Funeral services will be conducted:
Today at 11 a.m. in Duffy & Snowdon Funeral Home, 401 Church St., Moscow, Pa.
Friends may call:
Today from 10 a.m. until 11 a.m. at the funeral home.
Interment will be conducted at Laurel Hill Cemetery, Covington Twp., Pa.
Nancy Rafalko
August 22, 2017
Daughter of the late Evelyn Kilmer and the late Robert Kilmer, Nancy worked as a caretaker at St. Mary’s Villa in Elmhurst but spent recent years enjoying retirement and loving her family. Nancy lived life to the fullest and always managed to maintain a smile on her face, no matter the situation. She will be missed by all who knew her.
She was a member of the Spring Brook Congregational Church.
Also surviving are her sister, Jean Wirth; son, Robert Biefeldt; grandchildren, Charli Rose Chesniak, Bobbi Lee Biefeldt, Jeremy Kenosky, Brett Biefeldt, Sabrina Krolikov and Eric Daugherty; as well as multiple cousins, nieces, nephews and pets.
She was also preceded in death by her daughter, Robyn Kenosky.
A memorial service will be conducted at a time to be announced.
Ardene A. Bilinsky
August 17, 2017
Loved by anyone who crossed her path Ardene had a love for her family that goes beyond measure. Her infectious laugh and strong will spoke volumes to a life well lived! She was an incredible teacher to all of us with her actions more than words. She will be sorely missed.
Surviving in addition to her husband are her children, Robert K. Bilinsky and wife, Beverly, White’s Crossing; Marie A. Zawislak and husband, Jerry, Scott Twp.; Bradley T. Bilinsky and wife, Lori, of Greenfield Twp.; granddaughters, Allyson L. Bilinsky; Jammie L. Woodbridge and husband, Paul; great-grandchildren, Jayla Mae and Payton Marie; stepgranddaughter, April C. Wilson and her daughter, Amber; her twin brother, Arden Karns and wife, Belva, Everett, Pa.; her sister, Betty Fabian, Everett; and several nieces and nephews.
Ardene was also preceded in death by brothers, John “Babe” Karns; Thomas “Nick” Karns and wife, Edith; Paul Karns and wife, Helen; Burl Karns and wife, Gilda; her brother-in-law, John Fabian; and her stepgrandson, Brian Wilson.
Her family would like to sincerely thank Dr. Henry Yeager, the staff of GCMC ER, 8th, 6th and 5th floors; the staff at Abington Manor (especially Susan and Penny); everyone at Home Health Care Professionals & Hospice (HHCP) along with her close friends who were always there for her when needed.
A celebration of Ardene’s life will be held:
Friday, Aug. 25 at 3 p.m. at the Howard J. Snowdon Funeral Home, 1810 Sanderson Ave., Scranton, Pa., with the Rev. Jack Munley presiding.
Friends may call from 1:30 p.m. until time of the service.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to:
Griffin Pond Animal Shelter, 967 Griffin Pond Road, South Abington Twp., PA 18411.
Arlene E. Gerrity
August 19, 2017
Born July 21, 1936 in Scranton, she was the daughter of the late Carl and Esther (Latniak) Jaffin. Arlene was a graduate of Scranton Technical High School and was a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Scranton. Before her retirement, Arlene was employed by International Correspondence Schools of Scranton for many years.
Surviving are her son, Paul R. Gerrity of Scranton; her daughter, Donna A. Gerrity and husband, John Strupcewski, of Jim Thorpe; and her sister, Carol Jaffin of Scranton.
In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her brother, Richard Jaffin, in 2002.
Funeral services and calling will be conducted privately at the convenience of the family.
James P. Rainey
August 12, 2017
Born Jan. 31, 1958 in Scranton, he was the son of the late Paul J. and Anne (Ward) Rainey Sr. James was a graduate of Luzerne County Community College and was employed as a graphics artist, working extensively in the commercial art field.
He was of the Catholic faith, attending St. Catherine of Siena Church in Moscow.
Surviving in addition to his wife are his children, Casey H. Rainey, Jameson H. Rainey and Mason H. Rainey,
all of Gouldsboro; seven brothers, Paul J. Rainey Jr., Robert Rainey and wife, Maryann; Francis Rainey and wife, Margaret; Thomas Rainey and wife, Ann Marie; Joseph Rainey, Richard Rainey and wife, Laura; and William Rainey and wife, Kimberly; his sister, Anne Walsh and husband, James; his mother-in-law, Barbara Heier; and his sisters-in-law, Susan Famularo and husband, Frank; and Alison Pisarchik and husband, Gary; and 20 nieces and nephews.
James was also preceded in death by his sister, Patricia Rainey; and his brother, John Rainey; and his father-in-law, Robert Heier.
A blessing service will be conducted:
Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. in Duffy & Snowdon Funeral Home, 401 Church St., Moscow.
Interment will be conducted at Cathedral Cemetery, Scranton.
Friends may call on:
Tuesday from 5 until 8 p.m. at the funeral home
Memorial contributions can be made to:
Hospice of the Sacred Heart, 600 Baltimore Drive, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702 or
Allied Rehabilitation, 475 Morgan Highway, Scranton, PA 18508.
Albert A. Franklin
July 29, 2017
Born Nov. 11, 1927, in Catawissa, Pa., he was the son of the late Joseph W. and Suzanna (Korman) Fankovsky. He was a Navy veteran, serving during World War II. Albert was a 1952 graduate of Rutgers University and was employed as a personnel director for the Vitro Corporation of West Orange, N.J., and Teledyne Isotopes in Westwood, N.J.
Before his retirement, Albert was self-employed as an antique dealer. He was a member of St. Catherine of Siena Church in Moscow.
Surviving are nephew, Robert P. Meier and wife, Christine; neighbor and friend, Georgina Michaels; and many nieces and nephews.
Albert was preceded in death by seven sisters and five brothers.
Graveside committal will be conducted Friday at 11 a.m. in St. Catherine’s Cemetery, Covington Twp.
Military honors will be conducted following the committal service.
Anna Mae Forconi
August 5, 2017
Born May 31, 1934, in Jessup, she was the daughter of the late Ferdinand and Anna (Perrier) Savani. Before her retirement, Anna Mae and her sons were the proud owners of Forconi’s Fox and Hound Inn for over 35 years, where she made many dear friends.
Surviving are her sons, Joseph and Cesare and his wife, Jeanne; granddaughter, Carissa; and grandsons, Cesare and Joseph; also her sisters, Lena, Antoinette, Theresa, Shirley, Mary Helen and JoAnn; and brother, Michael; along with numerous nieces and nephews. Anna Mae was also preceded in death by her sisters, Corina and Gloria, and her brothers, John and Albert.
A Mass will be celebrated:
Thursday at 10 a.m. at St. Catherine of Siena Church, where she was a member, at 220 Church St., Moscow, with the Rev. Robert J. Simon, pastor, as celebrant.
Interment will be conducted at St. Catherine’s Cemetery.
Friends may call on:
Wednesday from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m. at Duffy & Snowdon Funeral Home, 401 Church St., Moscow.
Memorial contributions can be made to the donor’s choice.
Dr. R. Guy McGinnis
August 3, 2017
Dr. Guy was a noted interior/architectural designer with more than 35 years of experience in both education, and professional design, with degrees in fine arts, interior design, architecture and education. He taught at the Pratt Institute in New York and at Southern Illinois University, as well as the Academy of Art and U.C. Berkley in San Francisco, Calif.
Additionally, he guest lectured throughout the U.S., in France, Thailand and Australia. He was the national education chair for ASID and director of Education Research Forum of IIDA. He has consulted on the opening of schools of Art, Architecture and Design in Bangkok, Thailand, and Shanghai, China.
His extensive travels took him to 35 of the 38 largest cities in the U.S., and 26 foreign cities on six continents. Dr. Guy concentrated on understanding diverse cultures through art, architecture and design. His dissertation offered a methodology for locating and identifying those differences and the processes that perpetuate or discontinue them.
Dr. Guy is survived by his sister, Mary Ann Gavern; his sister-in-law, Lorraine Hower; his cousins, Ann Louise Kakareka, Kathy Merkel and Mary Ann Dobosh; and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Dorothea O’Connor McGinnis; sisters, Louise, Erma and Elizabeth; his brother, Dick; and cousin, Terry Tremper.
Funeral services will be conducted privately at the convenience of the family.
Duane “Dan” H. Wesley
July 31, 2017
Duane “Dan” H. Wesley, 74, of Scranton passed away into peaceful existence with the Lord on July 31, 2017. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 47 years, Arlene “Beaner” Wesley.
Born May 9, 1943, in Cleveland, Ohio, he was the son of the late Luetta (Hunt) Wesley and Duane Wesley Sr. He was educated in the Ohio school system. Dan was raised in Erie; he always loved his hometown and visited often. He and his wife moved to Scranton in 1963.
Dan had an extreme love for cars, and it was how he earned a living. He was owner and operator of A-1 Auto Center / Auto Body Shop since 1977. He was a very successful race car driver on local dirt tracks, including Herb Harvey’s Speedway, Penn-Can Speedway, 5 Mile Point and Moc-A Tek. After his racing days were over, his love of racing continued. He designed and built “Zightning” chassis for local racers. Dan was a self-made man who came to Scranton with $20 in his pocket and a will to succeed. He will be dearly missed.
Surviving are his son, Danny Alan Wesley of Erie; his daughter, Denise Wesley D’Andrea and husband, James, of Moscow; his son, Martin Shoup of Scranton; his sister, Lorna Jeanne Swartz-Bollinger and husband, Don, of Dalton; grandchildren, Shannon E. Quaile and husband, Herbert; Kelly L. Kelly and husband, Jason; Amy Lynn Parrett, Amanda Wesley, Anna Wesley, Ayla Wesley, Daniel Wesley, Thomas J. “TJ” Wesley, Andrea Lulewicz, Martin Shoup and Danielle Shoup; his companion and caregiver, Jeannie Ryan Rodriguez; her daughter, Jamie Chilewski; and her grandson, Henry Chilewski; 17 great-grandchildren; and nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his grandson, Michael Shoup.
A celebration of life will be conducted:
Tuesday at 7 p.m. in the Howard J. Snowdon Funeral Home, 1810 Sanderson Ave., Scranton, PA.
Friends may call:
4 p.m. until 7 p.m. at the funeral home.
Interment will be conducted privately in Fairview Cemetery, Mill City, Pa.
Because of Dan’s love for dogs, including his beloved Norma Jean, memorial contributions may be made to any animal shelter of the donor’s choice.
John F. ‘Jack’ Morgan
July 31, 2017
Born Dec. 3, 1932, in Queens, N.Y., he was the son of the late Henry and Mary (Caveny) Morgan. He was a graduate of Cathedral High School of Scranton. Jack was an Army veteran, serving from 1951 until 1954. Before his retirement, he was employed at Chamberlain Manufacturing as a shipping foreman. Jack was a member of Immaculate Conception Church in Scranton and was a life member of the VFW.
Surviving are his sister, Patricia Orgill; his niece, Joan Stawser and husband, Richard; his nephew, John Orgill and wife, Debbie; great-nieces and nephews; and caregiver, Rose Juice.
Jack was preceded in death by his brother, Arnold Morgan; and his beloved nephew, Louis “Kipp” Lombardo and wife, Jean; and his brother- and sister-in-laws.
A blessing service will be conducted:
Saturday at 1 p.m. in the Howard J. Snowdon Funeral Home, 1810 Sanderson Ave., Scranton, with the Rev. Joseph Sica as officiating clergy.
Interment will be conducted at Cathedral Cemetery, Scranton.
Friends may call:
Saturday from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. at the funeral home.
Jean Hurst
July 30, 2017
Born Sept. 16, 1929, in Norfolk, England, U.K., she was the daughter of the late Eric and Martha (Parling) Yeoman. Jean was a longtime member of St. Luke’s Episcopal Church in Scranton.
Surviving are her daughters, Linda J. Masters and husband, Tom, of Scranton; and Leslie A. Hughes and husband, Tom, of Pittston; her son, James T. Hurst Jr. and wife, Kimberly, of Las Vegas, N.V.; four grandchildren, Sandra Masters, Thomas W. Masters Jr., Christina M. Hughes and Thomas Hughes; three great-grandchildren, Alexandria, Isabella and Thomas James. Jean is also survived by her sisters, Sandra, Lesley, Wendy and Valeria; and her brother, Barry “Podge” Yeoman, all residing in the United Kingdom.
She was also preceded in death by her sisters, Haley and Betty, and her brother, Eric “Hookie” Yeoman.
A Mass will be celebrated on:
Thursday at 10 a.m. in St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, 232 Wyoming Ave., Scranton.
Friends may call on:
Wednesday from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. in the Howard J. Snowdon Funeral Home, 1810 Sanderson Ave., Scranton.
Interment will be conducted at Fairview Memorial Park, Elmhurst Twp.
Memorial contributions can be made to:
Penn State Health – Hershey Medical Center, 500 University Drive, Hershey, PA 17033; or
Hospice of the Sacred Heart, 600 Baltimore Drive, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702.
Ruth M. Barhight
July 28, 2017
Born July 21, 1932 in Gouldsboro, she was the daughter of the late August and Anna M. (Christie) Bentler. Before her retirement, Ruth was employed by RCA/Thomson Electronics of Dunmore.
Surviving are her son, August “Augie” Barhight and wife, Peg; her daughters, Roxanne Puchalski and husband, Larry; Denise O’Brien and husband, Robert; and Cynthia Labar and husband, David; her brother, Gail Bentler; and her sisters, Augusta Silvi and Delores Mullenex; and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews.
Ruth was also preceded in death by her brothers, Ned, Ernest, Charles, Edward, Robert, Jay and Larry Bentler; and her sisters, Mabel Scott, Helen Zavoski, Ethel Morris and Elsie Campbell. She was recently preceded in death by her granddaughter, Elizabeth O’Brien.
A memorial service will be conducted:
Wednesday at 7 p.m. in Duffy & Snowdon Funeral Home, 401 Church St., Moscow.
Friends and family will be received:
Wednesday from 4 until 7 at the funeral home.
Interment will be conducted privately in Fairview Memorial Park, Elmhurst Twp.
Memorial contributions can be made to:
Hospice of the Sacred Heart, 600 Baltimore Drive, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702; or
St. Mary’s Villa Nursing Home, 516 St. Mary’s Villa Road, Elmhurst Twp., PA 18444.
Howard Kriger Sr.
July 23, 2017
Born July 10, 1935 in Scranton, son of the late Elmer and Mary Grzenda Kriger, he was an Air Force veteran and was employed for many years at the Chamberlain Manufacturing Corp. before retirement. Howard was a lifelong member of Peace Lutheran Church in Scranton.
Howard’s family would like to thank everyone who extended kindness and help during his illness.
Also surviving are his daughter, Donna Crocco and husband, Ray, Moss Point, Miss.; son, Howard Kriger Jr. and wife, Sandy, Washington Terrace, Utah; sisters, Elmae Whalen, Orlando, Fla.; Ruth Ravinskas, Wharton, N.J.; and Charlotte Hafich, Dickson City; brother, Alfred Kriger Sr., Dickson City; three grandchildren, Frank Colachino Jr. and fiancée, Joann Bonanno, Texas; Dana Mace and Michelle Kriger, Utah; great-grandchild, Joei Velten, Texas; and many nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be conducted privately as requested by Howard Sr.
Barbara P. Abas
July 21, 2017
Born Feb. 12, 1940 in Sanford, Fla., daughter of the late John R. and Edith Smith Payne, Barbara was employed as a medical secretary before her retirement. Barbara was a member of the Moscow United Methodist Church and attended the Hollisterville Baptist Church. She was a member of the Red Hat Society and was a member of the bell ringers at the Green Ridge Health Care Center.
Barbara loved traveling and was very dedicated to her friends, and especially her family, who she dearly loved.
Barbara’s family would like to extend thanks to the Green Ridge Health Care Center and the VNA Hospice for their wonderful care and love shown to Barbara.
Surviving are her daughter, Linda G. Martini and husband, Paul, Madison Twp.; her son, Raymond Dekle and wife, Karen, Sterling Twp.; two grandchildren, Edward Dekle and Evelyn Dekle.
A memorial service will be conducted:
Friday at 11 a.m. in the Hollisterville Baptist Church, 23 Pond Road, Salem Twp.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Rock Steady Boxing of NEPA, 1 Maxson Drive, Old Forge, PA 18518 or www.gofundme.com/rocksteadyboxingnortheastpa; or to Griffin Pond Animal Shelter, 967 Griffin Pond Road, Clarks Summit, PA 18411.
Joseph G. O’Connell
Memorial Service~July 28th
Services will be held on:
Friday, July 28th at 1:00 pm in the Thornhurst United Methodist Church, 342 Old River Road, Thornhurst, PA with Rev. Peg Knapich, pastor as officiating clergy.
Military honors will be preformed following the service.
Interment will be conducted privately in St. Catherines Cemetery – Covington Twp. PA
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Julia Hartwig-MiędzyrzeckaJuly 13, 2017 |
| Julia Hartwig-Międzyrzecka was a poet, essayist, translator, and author of children’s books. She was born in Lublin, Poland in 1921, lived in Warsaw, Poland, and was visiting with her family in Gouldsboro, Pennsylvania. She died peacefully in her sleep on Thursday, July 13, 2017. She was the daughter of Ludwig Hartwig and Maria Biriukow, and widow of Artur Adam Międzyrzecki. She is survived by her daughter, Danielle Lehtinen, and son-in-law, Keith Lehtinen, retired in Gouldsboro, Pennsylvania.
Julia Hartwig-Międzyrzecka has been awarded numerous fellowships in France and the United States, and has won the Jurzykowski Prize from the Translation Center at Columbia University and the Austrian Georg Trakl Prize for poetry, among others. She received the distinction of Officer of the French Legion of Honor for popularizing and translating French literature into Polish. Together with her husband, Artur Międzyrzecki, she had compiled an Anthology of American Poetry in Polish translation. Her own work on Appolinaire, French writer of Polish descent, has also been translated into French and Chech, and her poetry was translated into languages such as English, German, and Portuguese. The Polish President’s Office noted her passing on its website, hailing her ‘the grande dame of Polish poetry’, after being so described by Czesław Miłosz, mentor and Nobel Prize Laureate. It also mentioned her role as a member of Poland’s Wartime Home Army and as participant in the country’s cultural life under German occupation during World War II. She continued to work for causes of Polish democracy and freedom during the post-War years, and was highly respected for her independent views. She was a welcoming and tactful hostess. While remaining a public figure, she prized her own and her family’s privacy, and worshipped her siblings. She traveled extensively, often to the USA, France and Italy. She leaves behind legions of fans of her work, and we will greatly miss her. She is in our hearts and minds forever. A blessing service will be conducted: Friends will be received from 3:00 pm until 5:00 pm. Memorial contributions can be made to The Countryside Conservancy. |
Ruth M. Bochon
July 9, 2017
Born on June 15, 1919 in Scranton, she was the daughter of the late John and Teofilia (Rawlin) Bochon. Ruth was educated in the Scranton schools and was a lifelong member of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Scranton. Before her retirement, Ruth was employed by Lincoln Laundry. After retirement, Ruth was a wonderful caregiver to her mother.
Ruth’s family would like to thank the staff and nurses at Green Ridge Health Care Center and Compassionate Care Hospice for their wonderful care. Special thanks to Ruth’s good friend, Peggy Herie, for her visits and remarkable kindness.
Surviving are her nephews, Richard Jascoviez and companion, Rosemary Kubasko; Paul Bochon and John Bochon;her niece, Susan Bochon; and great-nieces and nephews, Richard Jascoviez and companion, Cindy Kizer; Mark Jascoviez and wife, Melanie; Judy Surridge, Sandra Shook, David Jascoviez and Bryson Jascoviez.
She was preceded in death by her sister, Helen Jascoviez; her brothers, Adam and Jacob Bochon; her niece, Irene Sherman; and her nephews, Stanley and Walter Jascoviez.
Funeral services will be conducted:
Wednesday at 10 a.m. in Immanuel Lutheran Church, 238 Reese St., Scranton, with the Rev. John Zimmerman as officiating clergy.
Interment will be conducted in Evergreen Cemetery, Dickson City.
Friends may call:
Tuesday 5 until 7 p.m. in the Howard J. Snowdon Funeral Home, 1810 Sanderson Ave., Scranton.
Memorial contributions can be made to:
Immanuel Lutheran Church, 238 Reese St., Scranton, PA 18508
Douglas Robert Morgan
July 3, 2017
Doug was born in Scranton, Pennsylvania, on August 5, 1959, to William Robert and Barbara Morgan. He attended the Scranton Preparatory School, graduated from the University of Scranton with a BA in Communications and then obtained an MBA in Marketing from University of Maryland. He eventually settled in Burtonsville, Maryland, where worked to support his two daughters and son, who were the most important part of his life. While his career spent with companies such as Lockheed Martin, BAE Systems and Pelco was important to him, Doug’s first passion was his family and the simple things in life. He was a devoted father who preferred to be at home with his children or watching them perform in their many activities, including a gymnastics match, a dance recital, a swim meet.
Doug had a way with words and a knack for performing. In his early years, he could be found on stage acting in plays or singing in musicals. He was captivating as both a performer and public speaker, and his creativity was endless. His passion for performance and his smooth baritone voice led to his acceptance into the Washington Opera and volunteer work with Ballet Theater of Scranton, both on stage and behind the scenes.
To those of us that were fortunate to have known him or spoken to him, it was evident that Doug was a kind soul that would go out of his way to help others. He was genuine, gentle, caring and compassionate, and he enjoyed talking and listening to others. He will be deeply missed by his friends, family and all who knew him.
Doug is survived by his parents, W. Robert and Barbara (Scranton); his children, Matthew (Maryland), Rachel (California) and Sara (Maryland); his brothers, Bradley (Scranton), Christian, sister-in-law, Sheri; and three nieces, Madison, Cailee and Ashlyn (Pittsburgh).
Funeral service is scheduled for:
10:30 a.m. on July 10 at the St. Paul’s Church, 1510 Penn Ave, Scranton, PA 18509.
Calling hours:
Sunday, July 9 at Duffy & Snowdon Funeral Homes, 1810 Sanderson Ave., Scranton, PA
Prayer service – 2:30 p.m.
Viewing – 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Interment will be conducted at Cathedral Cemetery, Scranton, Pa.
Arrangements by Duffy & Snowdon Funeral Homes of Scranton & Moscow
Martha Eva Kobar
July 2, 2017
Martha was a devoted Catholic who prayed the rosary and Catholic devotion books daily. She worked in the textile industry prior to retirement. She was a member of St. Eugene’s Catholic Church, Asheville.
Nothing can replace the piece of our hearts that belongs to our Mom. Please keep her in your prayers.
Surviving are her two children, John and Julie, and their families. Martha was very special to her granddaughter, Allison.
A funeral Mass will be celebrated Saturday, July 8, 2017 at St. Eugene’s Catholic Church, Asheville.
Entombment will be conducted at 1 p.m. Monday, July 10 in Cathedral Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Eugene’s Catholic Church, 72 Culvern St., Asheville, NC 28804.
