December 2011  
Chief Master Sergeant Patrick Klynott  
William L. Dohman Sean T. Walsh
Patricia McHugh Keller Joseph W. Meehan, Sr.
   
November 2011  
Ruth Hague Nankivell Madelyn Pelepko
Eileen L. Solovey Robert Joseph Stoesser
Thomas C. Loftus, Jr. Harriet A. Florio
   
October 2011  
Mrs. Josephine K. (Kascsak) Anthony Roger G. Cicconi
Madeline R. Rowker John “Rick” Vrabel, Jr.
Theresa Bellumori (Bellamari) Barbara A. Franchella
   
September 2011  
Joseph “Shelly” Soltis  
Barbara A. Glaush Margaret “Peggy” Scott
Leonard M. Kossakowski Jason Joseph Tavella
   
August 2011  
Florence L. Bellumori Jean (Genevieve) Schmidt
Theresa Ann Reinard (Hayes) James J. Slusser
Mary Anne Cramton Dorothy “Dotty” Farrell
Marie Zdanowicz Vivien Hower
   
July 2011  
Marion Schwerdtman  
Renee (Mooney) Carr Charles E. Corcoran
Eleanor G. Kraft Darlene O’Brien
George Samuel Roberts III Bernice Alice Chandler
Robert Michael McKeown Dorothy M. Garinger
   
June 2011  
Carole Ann Hill Pearl Lispi Panzetta
Edward J. Cognigni Regina C. Ganaposki
Patricia R. Frank Charles J. Krommes
   
May 2011  
Jennie M. Klimek  
Jack Craig Helen L. Kondracki
Kevin J. Lanning Joseph R. Thomas
Richard H. Eustice Helen P. Krubitzer
Thomas D. Rolland Dolores M. Strausser
   
April 2011  
Albert J. Baldrica Peter M. Budzinski, Jr.
James J. Haggerty Mary Hamlin Dougherty
   
March 2011  
Dolores Answini Marie Zofcin
Edward James Cawley Placido “Joseph’ Franchelli
Oliver “Lee” Dominick Joseph Segeda
Mary Obremski Stella Kostelansky
Irene J. Fida Mary Kalinoski
Francis J. Williams Eleanor A. Melochick
Rita J. Murawski Marie Salvo
   
February 2011  
Josephine “Josie” G. Zielinski Dora Mae Hoover
Americo “Jack” Pinnacoli Robert F. Binker
Richard “Dick” Ward Glenn Gambini
Anne M. Mattick Theodor “Ted” Mueller
Joseph R. Thomas Gisela Klynott
   
January 2011  
Robert F. Pisack  
Lynn A. Venetz Joseph Burko
William P. “Murph” Murphy Julie Burko
   

 

Chief Master Sergeant Patrick Klynott
Died December 27, 2011

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Chief Master Sergeant Patrick Klynott, 75 of Exeter died Tuesday morning at the Inpatient Unit of Hospice Community Care, Geisinger South, Wilkes-Barre. 

Born in Wilkes-Barre, he was the son of the late Matthys and Margaret (Hannon) Klynoot.

Patrick was a Chief Master Sergeant with the United States Air Force for 24 years and was a veteran of the Vietnam War.  Before joining the Air Force, Patrick was a member of the United States Army.  He was a member of the Swoyersville American Legion Post 644 and the Wyoming Hose Company #2. 

He was preceded in death by his wife the former Gisela Teichert on February 6, 2011 and infant sister Peggy. 

Surviving are his sons, Ralf-Peter Klynott and his wife Linda of Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri and John Fitzgerald Klynott, St. Louis, Missouri, Sister Kathleen L. Klynoot, Pittston, Brothers John Raymond,  Carmel, Indiana, James G. Albuquerque, New Mexico, Matthew, Merritt Island, Florida and Eugene P., Punta Gorda, Florida, Nephews and Nieces. 

Funeral Service and Interment will be held Friday at 11 am in Denison Cemetery, Swoyersville.

There will be no calling hours.

Arrangements by Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc. 20 South Main Street, Plains.

 

 

Sean T. Walsh
Died December 24, 2011

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Sean T. Walsh, 38, of Jenkins Twp., died Saturday morning at the Inpatient Unit of Hospice Community Care, Geisinger South, Wilkes-Barre.

Born in Wilkes-Barre, he was the son of Thomas Walsh, of Pittston and Rita Kwiatkowski Walsh, of Edwardsville. 

Sean was a graduate of Wyoming Valley West High School, Class of 1992 and was formerly employed by Mericle Industries as a Heavy Equipment Operator and last owned and operated S & S Detailing and Customizing in Pittston Twp.

Surviving in addition to his parents are his wife, the former Sarah Latona, Sisters Tracey Walsh Morrissey, Edwardsville, Amy Walsh, Kingston, Kimberly Walsh, Edwardsville and Brigid Walsh, Pittston, Paternal Grandmother Geraldine Walsh, Plains, Nephews Eric, Tyler and Braeden, Nieces Morgan and Keira.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday at 9:30 am in St. Joseph Marello Parish at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, William Street, Pittston with Father Paul McDonnell, O.S.J. officiating.  Friends and family are invited to go directly to Church.  Interment will be held at the convenience of the family. 

Friends may call Monday from 5 to 8 pm at the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc. 20 South Main Street, Plains. 

Memorial donations may be made to The Frank M. and Dorothea Henry Cancer Center at Geisinger Wyoming Valley, 1000 East Mountain Blvd., Wilkes-Barre, Pa 18711.

 

 

William L. Dohman
Died December 19, 2011

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William L. Dohman, 90 of Wilkes-Barre, passed away Monday evening at the inpatient unit of Hospice Care of the VNA, St. Luke’s Villa, Wilkes-Barre.

Born in Wilkes-Barre, he was the son of the late John and Helen (Kraft) Dohman.

Bill attended James M. Coughlin High School, Wilkes-Barre, and was an Army Veteran of World War II serving with the 254th Engineer Combat Battalion in the European Theatre.  He participated in battles in Normandy, Northern France and in Bastogne during the Battle of the Bulge 67 years ago this week.

He was employed for Walton Tool and Dye of Wilkes-Barre as a machinist, for Phil’s Sunoco of Wilkes-Barre, and last for the Wilkes-Barre Area School District as a custodian until his retirement.  He was a member of St. Nicholas Church, Wilkes-Barre, a Life Member of the Hanover VFW, Post 5267, and a former Scout Master of the Boy Scouts of America Troop 39, Wilkes-Barre.

Bill was an avid bowler who bowled for St. Conrad’s Society of Wilkes-Barre and loved to bowl at Chacko’s Bowling Alley.  One of his great loves was going fishing with his grandsons.

He and his wife the former Elizabeth Baab celebrated their 63rd wedding anniversary on June 9, 2011.

He was preceded in death by his daughter Mary Beth Jones, his Great-grandson Jacob Jones, and his brothers John and Joseph Dohman.

Surviving in addition to his wife Elizabeth, are his children Elise Owens and her husband John Wunner, Wilkes-Barre, William Dohman and his wife Deborah, Wilkes-Barre, Dianne Naugle and her husband Robert, Exeter, and Theresa McDermott and her husband John, Nanticoke, grandchildren Bethy Rublee, Chuck Jones, Mark Jones, Robert Owens, William Wunner, Matthew Dohman, Billi Jean Dohman, Samantha Naugle, Al Naugle, Beth Dries, and Jessica McDermott, 10 Great-Grandchildren, 1 Great-Great-Grandson, several nieces and nephews.

Funeral will be held Friday at 8:45 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street, Plains, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 9:30 am in St. Nicholas Church, Wilkes-Barre.  Interment with Military Honors will be held in Oak Lawn Cemetery, Wilkes-Barre.

Friends may call Thursday evening from 5 to 8 pm.

Memorial donations may be made to Hospice Care of the VNA 667 North River Street  Wilkes-Barre, PA  18705.

 

 

Joseph W. Meehan, Sr.
Died December 8, 2011

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Joseph W. Meehan, Sr., 81 of Edwardsville and formerly of the Parsons section of Wilkes-Barre, died Thursday evening at Kindred Hospital, Wilkes-Barre.

Born in Wilkes-Barre, he was the son of the late John and Elizabeth (Elliott) Meehan. 

Joe attended James M. Coughlin High School, Wilkes-Barre and was employed by InterMetro of Wilkes-Barre as a Welder and in Maintenance until his retirement.  He was an Army Veteran of the Korean War and was a member of St. Benedict’s Parish, St. Dominic’s Church, Parsons. 

He was preceded in death by his son Joseph W. Meehan, Jr. and infant Granddaughter Kelly Golomb, Sisters Esther, Dolly, Mary, Elizabeth, Catherine, Gertrude and Dolores, Brothers Harry, John, Thomas and William. 

Surviving are his wife of 56 years the former Claire Carey, Daughters Joan Povilitus, Edwardsville and Colleen Golomb and her husband Shawn, Berwick, Grandchildren Joseph Meehan III, Greenville, SC, John Moran III, Pittston, Brian Moran and his wife Debra, Edwardsville, Patrick Moran and his fiancé Jill Urban, Swoyersville and Megan Golomb, Berwick, Sister Joan Meehan, Edwardsville, several nephews and nieces. 

Funeral will be Monday at 9:30 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street, Plains with a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 am in St. Benedict’s Parish, St. Dominic’s Church, Parsons section of Wilkes-Barre.  Interment will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Hanover Twp.

Friends may call Monday morning from 8:30 to 9:30 am.

Memorial donations may be made to the SPCA of Luzerne County, 524 East Main Street, Fox Hill Road, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702.

 

 

Patricia McHugh Keller
Died December 3, 2011

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Patricia McHugh Keller of Vienna, VA passed away December 3, 2011 at Commonwealth Health and Rehab Center in Fairfax, VA.

Born in Larksville, PA on January 31, 1927, she was a daughter of the late John and Mary Heffernan McHugh.

 Pat was a graduate of Larksville High School. She was formerly employed by American Greetings and was involved in many church, civic, and charitable organizations, including Newcomers Club of Vienna, VA, Welcome Wagon, and St. Mark's Parish. During her lifetime, she and her family resided in Bristol, PA, Kingston, NY, Huntsville, AL, and Vienna, VA. A devout Catholic, she was a member of St. Mark's Parish, Vienna, VA.

 She was preceded in death by her parents and brothers John and Ned McHugh; and sisters, Peggy Sarf, Rita Allman, Jean Kelly and Ann Bucikowski.

Surviving are her husband of 61 years, Claude Keller; son Brian Keller; daughter Claudia and her husband Bill Weston all who reside in VA; two grandchildren, Meghan Weston, of VA and Erin Weston of FL; Goddaughters Peggy Eckhardt, Fl and Jeanne Novis, VAand sister-in-law, Betty Lamoreaux of Dallas, PA. She is also survived by many very special nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday at 11 am in St. Maria Goretti Church, Laflin.  Friends may call at the church from 10 to 11 am.  The Parish Rosary Group will recite the Divine Mercy Chaplet and Rosary in the Church ½ hour before the funeral mass.  All are invited to join them.
Interment will be in St. Vincent’s Cemetery, Larksville. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Pat's name to the Tree of Life, St. Maria Goretti Church, 42 Redwood Dr., Laflin, PA or the American Diabetes Association.

 

 

Madelyn Pelepko
Died November 29, 2011

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Madelyn Pelepko, 90 of Wilkes-Barre, passed away Tuesday morning at ManorCare Nursing Home, Kingston.

Born in Plymouth, she was the daughter of the late George & Eva (Pinko) Gluzinski.

Madelyn attended Plymouth schools and was a homemaker all of her life.

A Devout Catholic, Madelyn attended Daily Mass and was a member of St. Mary’s Byzantine Catholic Church, North End Section of Wilkes-Barre, and Holy Saviour Church, East End Section of Wilkes-Barre.

She was preceded in death by her husband Michael Pelepko in 1979, infant son Joseph Pelepko and daughter Patricia Pelepko; sisters Mary Gluzinski, Nancy Spankuh, Rose False, and Catherine Maleski, brothers John and Michael Gluzinski.

Surviving are her children Michael Pelepko and his wife Nancy, Lebanon, PA, Rose Monka and her husband Nick, Pittsfield, MA, Mary McDonough, Kingston, John Pelepko, Wilkes-Barre, Peter Pelepko and his wife Frances, Seattle, WA, Margaret Susko and her husband Russ, and Kasia Filak and her husband George, all of Trucksville, 15 grandchildren, 6 great-grandchildren, sisters Anne Zikos, Syracuse, NY, Tineka Czahur, Ewing Twp., NJ, Eve Cronin, FLA, Elizabeth Welgos, Stroudsburg, brothers George Gluzinski, FLA, and Joseph Gluzinski, OR; many nieces and nephews.

Office of Christian Burial with Divine Liturgy will be held Monday, December 5, 2011 at 10:00 am in St. Mary’s Byzantine Catholic Church, Wilkes-Barre, with Father James Hayer, Pastor, officiating.  Interment will be held in SS. Peter & Paul Ukrainian Catholic Cemetery, Plains.

There will be no calling hours.  Friends are invited to go directly to church Monday morning.

Arrangements by the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street  Plains, PA  18705.

Memorial donations may be made to Maternal and Family Health Services  15 Public Square, Suite 600  Wilkes-Barre, PA  18701 or to the Wilkes-Barre Family Y.M.C.A. 40 W. Northampton Street  Wilkes-Barre, PA  18702.

 

 

Ruth Hague Nankivell
Died November 29, 2011

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Ruth Hague Nankivell, 85, of Plains Township, died Tuesday afternoon at her home. 

Born in Plains, she was the daughter of the late James Ivan and Pearl (Morris) Hague.

Ruth was a graduate of Plains Memorial High School, Class of 1944 and was employed at the Luzerne County Courthouse as a Switchboard Operator.  She was a member of the Plains Senior Citizens, Plains United Methodist Church and Plains United Methodist Church Sunday School Class 3. 

She was preceded in death by her husband Burt Nankivell on October 25, 1961, brother Ivan Hague and sister Mary Schollenberger. 

Surviving are her son Tom Nankivell and his wife Paula and daughter Rebecca Adams, all of Plains, Grandchildren Tom Nankivell Jr. and his wife Jenn, Robin Nankivell and Andrew Adams, Great Grandchildren Connor and Amelia Nankivell, nieces and nephews. 

Ruth’s family would like to thank the staff of Hospice Community Care for the compassionate care they provided to Ruth. 

Funeral Services will be held Friday at 10 am in the Chapel at Hanover Green Cemetery with Pastor Paul Amara, Pastor of Plains United Methodist Church officiating. 

There will be no calling hours.

Arrangements by Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc. 20 South Main Street, Plains.

Memorial donations may be made to the Plains United Methodist Church, 133 North Main Street, Plains, Pa 18705.

 

 

Robert Joseph Stoesser
Died November 26, 2011

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Robert Joseph Stoesser, 65 of West Wyoming, passed away Sunday evening at the home of his father after a lengthy illness.

Born in Brooklyn, New York, he was the son of Alfred Stoesser of West Wyoming, and the late Florence (Gedrich) Stoesser.

He was a graduate of West Wyoming, High School, Kings College, Wilkes-Barre, and earned his Master’s Degree in Social Work from Marywood University, Dunmore.

Bobby was a Coast Guard Veteran of the Vietnam War and was employed as a Social Worker for North East Counseling, Nanticoke.

Surviving in addition to his father Alfred, are his sister Maureen Librick and her husband Edward, Saylorsburg, niece Lea Rubini and her husband Daniel, Yardley, and great-niece Gwendolyn Rubini, Yardley.

Funeral Services with Military Honors will be held Wednesday at 10:00 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street, Plains.  Interment will be held in Memorial Shrine Burial Park, Wyoming, at the convenience of the family.

Friends may call Wednesday morning from 9:30 am until the time of service at the funeral home.

Memorial donation may be made to the make-A-Wish Foundation   480 Scott Street  Wilkes- Barre, PA 18702.

 

 

Eileen L. Solovey
Died November 20, 2011

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Eileen L. Solovey, 84 of Plains, Twp., passed away Sunday evening at Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center, Plains, surrounded by her family.

Born in the Hilldale section of Plains, Twp., she was the daughter of the late Eugene and Charlotte (McDonald) Cardoni.

Eileen was a graduate of Plains Memorial High School, Class of 1945, and was a homemaker all of her life.

She was a member of SS. Peter & Paul Church, Plains.  Eileen enjoyed her monthly luncheons with her friends from the “Class of 45”.

She was preceded in death by her husband Peter Solovey on August 20, 2001, and her sister Betty J. Cardoni on November 16, 1994.

Surviving are her children Peter Solovey and his wife, Judy, Hanover Twp., David Solovey and his wife Heidi, Mountaintop, and Charlene Seprish and her husband Edward, Sweet Valley, grandsons Joshua, Zachary, Nicholas, Alexander, and Christian Seprish, brother Eugene Cardoni and his wife Shirley, Yatesville, several nieces and nephews.

Funeral will be held Wednesday at 9:00 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street, Plains, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 9:30 am in SS. Peter & Paul Church, 13 Hudson Road, Plains.  Interment will be held in Fern Knoll Burial Park, Dallas.

Friends may call Tuesday evening from 4 to 7 pm.

 

 

Harriet A. Florio
November 2, 2011

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Harriet A. Florio (nee Schwindt), 78, of Broomall, PA died on November 2, 2011
at her home.  She was the beloved wife of Robert A. Florio, as well as a loving
mother and grandmother to four sons and eleven grandchildren.

Born May 8, 1933 in Brooklyn, NY, she grew up in Upper Darby, PA.  After
attending West Chester State TeachersCollege, she taught in the Upper Darby
School District from 1955-1961 and in the Marple Newtown School District from
1979-1998.  Harriet was an active member of Alpha Delta Kappa, a teacher’s
sorority that raises money for children.  After retirement, she enjoyed family
and travel.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Harriet and Philip Schwindt, and a
granddaughter, Hope Florio.  Surviving are her husband of 53 years, Robert;
brothers, Philip of Plano, TX and William of Aldan, PA; sons, Robert of
Southampton, NY; James of Thornton, PA; Jack of Phoenixville, PA; and Steven of
Franklin, Massachusetts; and grandchildren Taylor, Teague, Tess, Tiffany,
James, Anna, Paul, Lyle, Luke, and Justin.

Visitation will be held Sunday evening from 7 to 9 pm and Monday morning from 9 to 10 am at THE DONOHUE FUNERAL HOME, NEWTOWN SQUARE, PA (610-353-6300) and a Funeral Mass to be held Monday morning at 10:30 am at the Church of St. Anastasia, 3301 West Chester Pike Newtown Square, PA. 

Local Funeral Service will be held Tuesday at 10:30 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street, Plains.  Interment will be held in Sacred Heart Cemetery, Plains.  Friends may call Tuesday morning from 9:30 am to 10:30 am.

If desired, contributions can be made in her memory to Homecare Network,
Jefferson Hospice and Palliative Care, 240 Radnor Chester Rd., Suite 100,
Radnor, PA 19087. 

 

 

Thomas C. Loftus, Jr.
Died November 1, 2011

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Thomas C. Loftus, Jr., 56 of Bear Creek Twp., and formerly of Wilkes-Barre, passed away Tuesday afternoon at Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center, Plains, Twp.

Born in Plains, he was the son of the late Thomas C. and Louise (Pechal) Loftus, Sr.

Tom attended Plains Memorial High School and was a Navy Veteran of the Vietnam War.  After his discharge from the Navy he enlisted in the Pennsylvania National Guard 109th Field Artillery, serving until his discharge in 2001.

Tom’s Lights of his Life were his daughter Alissa and his grandson Frederick.

He was preceded in death by his brother Brian Loftus in 1957.

Surviving are his daughter Alissa Eddowes and her husband Gregory, Bear Creek Twp., grandson Frederick Shaffer IV, brothers Paul, Mountaintop, Mark, Pittston, Andrew, Plains, and Michael, Hughestown; sisters Mary Theresa Malinowski, Harding, Kathleen Conahan, Miners Mills, Carol Ann Loftus, Ann Marie Watkins, and Gloria Jean Dixon, all of Plains, Rose Mary Turner, Dupont, and Louise Ann Hogan, Wilkes-Barre, numerous nieces and nephews and great-nieces and nephews.

Funeral will be held Friday at 9:00 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street, Plains, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 9:30 am in SS. Peter & Paul Church, Plains.  Interment with Military Honors will be held in Holy Trinity Cemetery, Bear Creek Twp.

Friends may call Thursday evening from 6 to 8 pm.

Memorial donations may be made to the United Way of Wyoming Valley, 8 West Market Street, Suite 450, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18701.

 

 

Roger G. Cicconi
Died October 26, 2011

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Roger G. Cicconi, 81 of Levittown, and formerly of Plains, Twp., passed away Wednesday afternoon, October 26, 2011, at his home.

Born in Plains, he was the son of the late Americo and Agnes (Grassi) Cicconi.

He attended Plains Twp., schools and was an Army Veteran serving for 18 months from May of 1947 to October of 1948.  After his discharge from the army he was employed as a tire salesman, mechanic, and entrepreneur in Levittown, Bristol, and Pleasant Gap, PA.

Roger was very involved in Baseball.  He managed and coached the Western Legion Levittown team to the Championship in 1970. He was a member of the Elk Club and the Italian Club, where he was sponsored by his father.

He was preceded in death by his brother Gerald R. Cicconi.

Surviving are his children Roger F. Cicconi and his wife Lisa, Cape Coral, FLA, Joette M. D’Angelo, Lexington, SC, Diane Scutt and her husband William, and Annette Cicconi, all of Levittown; 19 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren, sisters Bernadine Macomber, and Sandra Logan, both of Langhorne, PA, nieces and nephews.

Funeral Services will be held Monday at 10:00 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street Plains, PA  18705, with Rev. Mark Desilva, Pastor of Living Hope Bible Church, Plains, officiating.  Interment will be held in the Italian Independent Cemetery, West Wyoming.

Friends may call Sunday from 2 to 4 pm.       

Memorial donations may be made to Penn Memory at their website www.pennadc.org or to Caring Hospice  400 Commerce Drive Suite C  Fort Washington, Pennsylvania  19034.     

 

Mrs. Josephine K. (Kascsak) Anthony

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Mrs. Josephine K. (Kascsak) Anthony, 95, a resident of Maple Drive, Swoyersville, fell asleep in the Lord Tuesday morning in the Little Flower Manor, Wilkes-Barre, where she recently resided.      

Born May 7, 1916 in Wilkes-Barre, she was a daughter of the late George and Ella (Whitman) Kascsak.  She attended the Luzerne schools, and furthered her education by attending the former Wyoming Seminary Business School.      

During the Second World War, Mrs. Anthony worked at the Rome Air Depot, Rome, New York, later known as Griffiss Air Force Base.      

Upon her return to the Wyoming Valley, she worked for over thirty-five years with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Department of Health and Environmental Resources as a secretary.    

 Mrs. Anthony was a former member of Sacred Heart of Jesus Slovak Roman Catholic Church, North Wilkes-Barre and Saint Mary Protection of the Mother of God Byzantine Catholic Church, Kingston.      

In addition to her husband George W. Anthony, C.P.A., who passed on July 23, 2007, she was preceded in death by a sister, Mrs. Mary Figler and by brothers Andrew, George, John and William Kascsak.      

Surviving are several nieces and nephews.    

 Funeral services with Panachida will be conducted on Friday at 9:30 a.m. from the John V. Morris Funeral Home, 625 North Main Street, Wilkes-Barre, followed by the Office of Christian Burial with Divine Liturgy in Saint Mary's Protection Byzantine Catholic Church, 321 Chestnut Avenue, Kingston.  The Reverend Mykhaylo Prodanets, pastor will officiate.      

Interment with Rites of Committal will follow in Sacred Heart of Jesus Roman Catholic Cemetery, Dorchester Drive, Dallas.  Relatives and friends may join her family for visitation and remembrances Friday morning from 9:00 a.m. until the time of services.    

In lieu of floral tributes, memorial contributions may be made in Mrs. Anthony’s memory to Saint Mary’s Protection Byzantine Catholic Church, 321 Chestnut Avenue, Kingston, PA 18704.

John “Rick” Vrabel, Jr.
Died October 22, 2011

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John “Rick” Vrabel, Jr., 78 of Plains, Twp., passed away Saturday afternoon at Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center, Plains, Twp.

Born in Plymouth, he was the son of the late John & Mary (Gorko) Vrabel, Sr.  Rick attended Plymouth High School, and was an Army Veteran of the Korean Conflict.

He was employed for the Wilkes-Barre Area School District for over 29 years, retiring as head custodian. He was a member of SS. Peter & Paul Church, Plains, and the Plains American Legion, Joseph E. Conlon, Post 558.  One of Rick’s greatest joys was playing Santa Clause at Christmas time for over 40 years.  

He and his wife the former Carol Purta celebrated their 55th wedding anniversary on August 18, 2011.

Surviving in addition to his wife Carol are his brother Robert Vrabel, Northumberland, PA, several nieces and nephews, and sisters-in-law and a brother-in-law.

Funeral will be held Tuesday at 9:00 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street, Plains, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 9:30 am in SS. Peter & Paul Church, Plains.  Interment will be held in the Parish Cemetery, Plains.

Friends may call Tuesday morning from 8:00 am till 9:00 am at the funeral home.

 

 

Madeline R. Rowker
Died October 17, 2011

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Madeline R. Rowker, 86, of Wilkes-Barre, died Monday evening at the inpatient unit of Hospice Care of the VNA, St. Luke’s Villa, Wilkes-Barre. 

Born in Wilkes-Barre, she was the daughter of the late Aloysius and Catherine (Zeigler) Feldman. 

Madeline was a graduate of St. Nicholas High School class of 1944 and before retirement was employed as a payroll clerk for Northeastern News of Laflin and last in the office of Stegmaier Brewery of Wilkes-Barre.  She was a member of St. Mary’s Byzantine Church, Wilkes-Barre.

She was preceded in death by her husband John D. Rowker on March 15, 2004, Brothers Andrew, John, Aloysius, and Fred Feldman and Sisters; Catherine Jacobs, Dorothy Booth and Elizabeth Kemmerer . 

Surviving are several nephews and nieces. 

Funeral will be held Thursday at 9:30 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc. 20 South Main Street, Plains with Office of Christian Burial with Divine Liturgy at 10 am in St. Mary’s Byzantine Catholic Church, Wilkes-Barre.  Panachida will be recited at 9:00 am.  Interment will be held in the Parish Cemetery, Dallas.
Friends may call Thursday morning from 8 to 9 am.
Memorial donations may be made to St. Mary’s Byzantine Catholic Church  695 North Main Street  Wilkes-Barre, PA  18705

 

Barbara A. Franchella
Died October 15, 2011

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Barbara A. Franchella, 59, of Plains Township, died Saturday evening at the Wilkes-Barre General Hospital. 

Born in Plains, she was the daughter of the late Samuel and Catherine Franchella.

Barbara was a graduate of Plains Memorial High School and was employed as a Nurse’s Aide at Valley Crest Nursing Home.  She was a member of SS. Peter & Paul Church, Plains.

She was preceded in death by her brother Robert Franchella.

Surviving are her sister Shirley Soboleski, Wilkes-Barre, nephews and nieces. 

Funeral will be held Tuesday at 9:00 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc. 20 South Main Street, Plains with a Mass of Christian Burial at 9:30 am in SS. Peter & Paul Church, Plains.  Interment will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery, Carverton. 

Friends may call Monday from 6 to 8 pm.

Memorial donations may be made to the Kidney Foundation, 111 S Independence Mall E # 41, Philadelphia, PA 19106-2521.

 

 

Theresa Bellumori (Bellamari)
Died October 6, 2011

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Theresa Bellumori (Bellamari), 89 of Plains Township, passed away Thursday evening at the Wilkes-Barre General Hospital.

Born in the Hilldale section of Plains, she was the daughter of the late Santino and Teresa (Traverelli) Bellamari.  After the passing of her mother, she was raised by her Aunt Julia Traverelli Mangione and later by her cousin, the late Jennie Dietrick. 
Theresa was educated in Plains Township schools and was a member of Sacred Heart Church, Plains and currently a member of SS. Peter & Paul Church, Plains. 
She was preceded in death by her sister Mary Cognigni and Brother Dino Bellumori.
Surviving are her nieces and nephews, including John and Mickey Cognigni of Plains Township, who held a special place in their Aunt Theresa’s heart.

Funeral will be held Monday at 10:30 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc. 20 South Main Street, Plains with a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 am in SS. Peter & Paul Church, Plains.  Interment will be held in Oak Lawn Cemetery, Wilkes-Barre.

Friends may call Sunday from 4 to 6 pm. 
Memorial donations may be made to Hospice Care of the VNA in Theresa’s name.

 

 

Joseph “Shelly” Soltis
Died September 26, 2011

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Joseph “Shelly” Soltis, 84, of Wilkes-Barre, PA passed away on Monday, September 26, 2011 at Northside Hospital, while visiting his daughter in Atlanta, GA. 

He was the son of the late Andrew and Martha (Letinski) Soltis of Wilkes-Barre, PA.  He attended James M. Coughlin High School, Wilkes-Barre, and joined the US Navy in 1944, during World War II, as a member of the “plank owning” crew of the USS Macon CA-132 .  

After serving in the Navy, Shelly started a small coil cleaning business, owned a tavern by the name of Shelly’s Pub, operated and owned Shelly’s Lawn Service, and worked for the Wilkes-Barre City School District until he retired at the age of 73.  He also served as Wilkes-Barre City Councilman from 1988 -1991. 

Shelly was a member of many local clubs including, the Parsons American Legion Post 199;  Miners Mills, Triangle Club; Carpatho Russian Citizen’s Club; Polish American Veterans of Plains;  VFW – Lani Post 6325, Hudson, PA;  Northend Slovak Club, Wilkes-Barre.  He was also a long standing member of the Hollenback Golf Club.  He was a member of the St. Benedict Parish in Wilkes-Barre, PA.

He was preceded in death by his sisters Genevieve Huey, Dorothy Rampola, and Hilda Markey. 

He is survived by his daughter, Kimberly Rio and her husband Gary who reside in Atlanta, GA and his son Sheldon Soltis, wife Marilyn and grandson Joseph residents of Poolesville, MD.  He also has a grandson Brian Rio and wife Lori and two great- grandchildren, Kalani and Grace, who live in Kansas City, MO. 

Funeral Service will be held Wednesday, October 5, 2011 at 9:30 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street, Plains, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 am at St. Benedict Parish, St. Dominic’s Church, 155 Austin Ave, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18705.  Interment will be held at the convenience of the family.

Friends may call Tuesday evening, October 4, 2011 from 4 to 7 pm.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in his honor to the American Lung Association of the Mid-Atlantic 3001 Old Gettysburg Road, Camp Hill, PA, 17011 or the American Cancer Society, 190 Welles St, Suite 118, Forty Fort, PA 18704.

 

Margaret “Peggy” Scott
Died September 24, 2011

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Margaret “Peggy” Scott, 82 of Wilkes-Barre, passed away Saturday morning, September 24, 2011, at her home.               

Born in Hanover Twp., she was the daughter of the late William J. and Julia (Cosegrove) Davis.

She was a graduate of Hanover High School, class of 1948.  She was a member of Our Lady of Fatima Parish, Wilkes-Barre, and a former member of St. Therese’s Church, Wilkes-Barre.  She was an active member of Mercy Hospital Auxiliary, a member of TOPS, and a long time contact person for Recovery Inc.

She was preceded in death by her husband Daniel W. Scott on April 19, 1993, brothers Aaron, Leonard, William, and Alvin Davis.

Surviving are her sons Daniel Scott and his wife Peggy, and David Scott, all of Wilkes-Barre, grandchildren Daniel, Ryan, Alison, Cory, Colleen, and David, Jr., brother Thomas Davis, Lee Park, Hanover Twp., daughter-in-law Anita Scott, numerous nieces and nephews.

Funeral will be held Tuesday at 9:00 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street, Plains, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 9:30 am in Our Lady of Fatima Parish, St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception Church, Wilkes-Barre, with Msgr. Thomas V. Banick, pastor, officiating.  Interment will be held in Memorial Shrine Burial Park, Wyoming. 

Friends may call Tuesday morning from 8am to 9 am.                

Memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer´s Association Of Northeastern PA, 63 North Franklin Street, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702.

 

Barbara A. Glaush
Died September 17, 2011

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Barbara A. Glaush, 76 of Wilkes-Barre, passed away Saturday evening at the Wilkes-Barre General Hospital .  

Born Wilkes-Barre, she was the daughter of the late Lee and Hilda (Snyder) Roth. 

She attended G.A.R. High School, Wilkes-Barre, and was a homemaker all of the life

She was preceded in death by her husband Charles J. Glaush on March 16, 2010, and her brothers and sisters.

Surviving are her daughters: Shirley Glaush, Kingston, Leona Krantz and her husband John,  Nanticoke, Hilda Mendoza and her husband Jim, Dallas, Bonnie Maslowski  and her husband George, Wilkes-Barre, and Lorie Perrins and her husband Bob, Wilkes-Barre, sons Charles "Buddy" Glaush, Jr. and his wife Lesha, Wilkes-Barre, and Mark Glaush, Mountaintop;  13 Grandchildren; 10 Great-Grandchildren, several nieces and nephews.

Funeral Services will be private and held at the convenience of the family.  There will be no calling hours.  Arrangements are under the direction of the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street, Plains.

 

Jason Joseph Tavella
Died September 1, 2011

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Jason Joseph Tavella, 40, of Thornhurst, passed away Thursday morning, September 1, 2011, at his home.

Born in Plains on July 9, 1971, he was the son of Anthony Tavella of Thornhurst and Carolyn (Pientka) Tavella of Plains. 

Jason was a graduate of James M. Coughlin High School, Class of 1989.  He was a talented chef, applying his trade at many local restaurants including Nono Lini, Michael’s, The Lobster Trap, Allanti’s and others.  In recent years he worked in the Construction Field. 

Jason was a member of St. Elizabeth’s of Hungary /St. Mark’s Church, Bear Creek.  He was an avid hunter and fisherman and was a member of the Miners Mills Rod and Gun Club and the Polish Club.  Jason was quick with a smile and had many friends and was affectionately called “Yushka” by some of his friends. 

He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents Bruno and Rose Tavella and maternal grandparents Joseph and Anna Pientka. 

In addition to his parents, he is survived by his wife, the former Laura Vermack and their two beautiful children, Karli Ann and Jason Anthony (J.J.), Brother Jeffrey and his wife Maria, Laurel Run and numerous nieces and nephews. 

Funeral will be held Saturday at 10:00 am in St. Elizabeth’s Church, Bear Creek. Interment will be held at the convenience of the family.  Friends may call from 9:00 am to 10:00 am at St. Elizabeth’s Church. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the family at the church for the future needs of Jason’s two small children, Karli Ann and JJ. 

Arrangements by the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc, 20 South Main Street, Plains.

 

Leonard M. Kossakowski
Died September 4, 2011

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Leonard M. Kossakowski, 83, of Plains Township died Sunday evening at the Laurels Nursing Center, Kingston.

Born in Plains, he was the son of the late Mikolij and Mary (Okiun) Kossakowski.

Len was a graduate of Plains Memorial High School, Class of 1945 and was employed in the Construction field.  He was an Army Veteran of WWII.

He was preceded in death by his wife the former Kathryn Stegura on January 20, 1995, Grandson Steven King, Brothers Stephen, Clement, Joseph, Benjamin, Stanley and Hedwick Kossakowski, Francis Koss and Sisters Lucy Kozloski and Genevieve Lastovica. 

Surviving are his daughters Patricia King and her husband Richard, Plains and Lorraine Kossakowski, Laflin, Grandchildren Richard King Jr., Neil King and Michelle King, 6 Great-Grandchildren, Sister Margaret Roman, Pringle, several nieces and nephews. 

Funeral will be held Thursday at 9 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street, Plains with a Mass of Christian Burial at 9:30 am in SS. Peter & Paul Church, Plains.  Interment will be held at the convenience of the family.

Friends may call Wednesday from 6 to 8 pm.

Memorial donations may be made to the American Diabetes Association, 63 North Franklin Street Wilkes-Barre, Pa 18701.

 

 

Jean (Genevieve) Schmidt
Died August 29, 2011

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Jean (Genevieve) Schmidt, 91, of Wilkes-Barre, died Monday morning at St. Luke’s Villa, Wilkes-Barre.

Born in Plymouth, she was the daughter of the late Paul and Julia (Wolanski) Maximowicz.

Jean was a graduate of Plymouth High School and was a dedicated and loving mother, working all her life raising her family.  She loved baking for her family and quilting things by hand.  Jean was a member of the Wilkes-Barre General Hospital Auxiliary and Saint Aloysius’ Senior Citizens Club.  She was a member of SS. Peter & Paul Church, Plains. 

She was preceded in death by her husband Frederick B. Schmidt on April 6, 1993, Infant son David, Infant Great Granddaughter Grace Isabella Houseknecht, Brothers Mitchell and Edward Maximowicz; Sisters Celia, Helen and Pauline Maximowicz and Veronica McCarthy. 

Surviving are her daughter Mary Dunkel and her husband Lewis, Montgomery, Pa; Sons Paul Schmidt and his wife Judy, Hudson and John Schmidt and his wife Julie, Kingston, Grandchildren Gregory, Alexis, Jennifer and Zachary Schmidt, Susan Houseknecht and Nicole Andrews, Great-Grandchildren Peter, Kyle, Christian and Daniel Schmidt and Jenna Nicole Houseknecht, several nieces and nephews. 

Funeral will be held Thursday at 9:00 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home Inc., 20 South Main Street, Plains with a Mass of Christian Burial at 9:30 am in SS. Peter & Paul Church, Plains.  Interment will be in Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Carverton. 

Friends may call Wednesday from 5 to 8 pm. 

Memorial donations may be made to St. Luke’s Villa, 80 East Northampton Street, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18701 in Jean’s name.

 

 

Obituary of Florence L. Bellumori

Died August 22, 2011

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Florence L. Bellumori, 90, of Laflin died Monday evening at her home surrounded by her family. 

Born in Plains she was the daughter of the late Antonio and Annetta (Dini) Tontini. 

Florence was a graduate of Plains Memorial High school and Wilkes-Barre General Hospital School of Practical Nursing.  Prior to her retirement, she worked for Leslie Fay, Valley Crest Nursing Home and Wilkes-Barre MHMR.  She was a member of St. Maria Goretti Church, Laflin. 

She was preceded in death by her husband Dino Bellumori on February 17, 1984, and Brothers, Fred, Attillio and Harold Tontini. 

Surviving are her Daughters Danielle Bellumori Cresci, McGraw, NY; Florence DePolo and her husband James, Falls, PA; Sons Stephen Bellumori and his wife Darline, Menlo Park, Ca and David Bellumori and his wife Paulette, Woolwich Township, NJ,   12 Grandchildren,  12 Great Grandchildren, Sister Alvida Eustice, Plains, several nephews and nieces. 

Funeral will be held Thursday at 10 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc.20 South Main Street, Plains with a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 am in St. Maria Goretti Church, Laflin.  The Parish Rosary Group will recite the Divine Mercy Chaplet and Rosary in the Church ½ hour before the funeral mass.  All are invited to join them.

Entombment will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery, Carverton.

Friends may call Wednesday from 5 to 8 pm.

Memorial donations may be made to St. Joseph’s Center, 2010 Adams Ave. Scranton, PA 18509.

 

James J. Slusser
Died August 15, 2011

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James Joseph Slusser, of Kingston, passed away at Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center, Plains, Twp., on August 15, 2011.

Born on October 14, 1949, James (Jim) was the son of the late Joseph and Eleanor (Rogers) Slusser of Kingston.  He resided in Kingston all his life and graduated from Wyoming Valley West High School, Class of 1968.  Upon graduating he enlisted in the U.S. Army and served in Vietnam and in the Military Police. 

Prior to becoming disabled, he was employed by Slusser Construction and Berwick Forge and Fabricating. 

James was a member of the six County Firemen’s Association, American Legion, Life member of the Disabled American Veterans, and a life member of the Kingston Fire Department. 

Jim is survived by his loving wife of 35 years of marriage, the former Nancy Jones of Forty Fort, Brothers Richard and his wife Denise of Maryland, Robert and his wife Toni of Texas, nephews Richard Jr., Joseph and Jonathan, sister-in-law Shirley Jones of Kingston and his beloved pets, Earl and Chance and Angel. 

Funeral Services will be held Friday at 11:00 am at the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc. 20 South Main Street, Plains. Interment with Military Honors will follow in Oak Lawn Cemetery, Wilkes-Barre.

Friends may call Friday morning from 9am to 11 am. 

Memorial donations may be made to SPCA of Luzerne County, 524 E. Main Street, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702 or Blue Chip Farms Animal Refuge, 974 Lockville Road, Dallas, PA 18612-9465.

 

 

Theresa Ann Reinard (Hayes)
Died August 11, 2011

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Theresa Ann. Reinard (Hayes), 68, of Dallas died Thursday, August 11th, 2011, after a short illness.

Born February 4, 1943, in Miners Mills, she was a daughter of the late John and Mary (Rusilavage) Reinard.

She attended James M. Coughlin High School, Wilkes-Barre and helped her mother with the family restaurant in Miners Mills, while her father worked as a truck driver making deliveries across the country. Theresa was blessed with the opportunity to travel on an adventure to Landsthul Germany when she was first married as a military spouse and gave birth to her son, Charles while in country. She was employed at Freeders Cigar Factory, Parsons, in her youth, by the Dallas Dry Cleaners, while raising her children & Boscov’s Department Store-Scranton, as Assistant Personnel Manager for 28 Years. Her most challenging endeavor was yet still on the forefront as she worked hard to guide and mentor her beautiful Grandsons Charlie the IV and Logan Max the 1st who endeared her as Mommu and will be at a great loss without her.
She was preceded in death by her sister Marie Degrose, Pittston.

Surviving are her son, Disc Jockey Charles A. Hayes, III “The Commander”, Dallas , Daughter In Law  Lisa Michelle Hayes, Dallas,  Daughter, Michelle Hayes Firmstone and son-in-law, Steven G. Firmstone, Waymart; grandsons Charles A. Hayes IV and Logan Max Hayes the 1st, Dallas,  sister Nancy Nardone, West Pittston, and brothers Eugene Reinard, Mountain Top, Jack Reinard, Kingston, and Richard Reinard, Tucson, AZ.  

Funeral Service will be held Tuesday at 10:00 am at the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street, Plains.  Interment will be held in Chapel Lawn Memorial Park, Dallas. 
Friends may call Monday evening from 5 to 8 pm.

 

 

Dorothy “Dotty” Farrell
Died August 11, 2011

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Dorothy ‘Dotty” Farrell, 71, of Ashley, passed away Thursday morning at the Wilkes-Barre General Hospital. 

Born in Wilkes-Barre, she was the daughter of the late Raymond and Lettie (Rimple) Oliver.

Dotty attended G.A.R. High School, Wilkes-Barre and was employed as a Waitress for Patte’s Sports Bar and Denny’s Restaurant; she was Head Cashier at Hills Dept. Store and Assistant Bridal Coordinator for Blum Brothers, all of Wilkes-Barre. 

She was a member of St. Andre Bessette Parish, North East Wilkes-Barre, a social member of the Plains American Legion, Post 558 and the North End Slovak Club, North Wilkes-Barre.  She was a Brownie leader for the Dan Flood Brownies and was involved in the Sacred Heart Slovak School PTA. 

Dotty enjoyed her day trips to Atlantic City and Lancaster County with her husband Joe and enjoyed everything to do with Native American History and Angels and was very dedicated to her children and grandchildren. 

She was preceded in death by her husband Joseph M. Farrell Sr. on May 29, 2000, daughters Elizabeth (Beth) Rosiak and Kaylee Farrell, Brothers, William, Raymond and Arthur Oliver and her sister Grace Baker.

Surviving are her son Joseph Farrell Jr. and his wife Ann, Wilkes-Barre, daughter Rosemarie Thoma, Forty Fort, Patricia Zadora and her husband Trent, Warrior Run and Michele Bitner and her husband Jeffrey, Ashley, son-in-law Gary Rosiak, Warrior Run, 8 Grandchildren, 6 Great-grandchildren, Brother Charles (Chuck) Oliver, Harding nieces and nephews. 

Funeral will be held Monday at 9 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home Inc., 20 South Main Street, Plains with a Mass of Christian Burial at 9:30 am in St. Andre Bessette Parish, St. Stanislaus Kostka Church, North End section of Wilkes-Barre with Rev. John C. Ruth, officiating.  Interment will be held in Chapel Lawn Memorial Park, Dallas.

Friends may call Sunday from 5 to 8 pm.

Memorial donations may be made to the National MS Society, Central PA Chapter  2040 Linglestown Road, Suite 104  Harrisburg, PA  17110.

 

 

Mary Anne Cramton
Died August 10, 2011

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Mary Anne Cramton, 70, of Trucksville, passed away Wednesday afternoon at the Wilkes-Barre General Hospital after a brief illness.

Born in Bainbridge, NY, she was the daughter of the late Ernest A. and Jennie L. (Hill) Maynard.

Mary Anne was a graduate of Sidney High School, Sidney, NY, Class of 1959 and received her Nursing degree from Wilkes-Barre School of Nursing, Wilkes-Barre Vocational School in 1977.

She was employed as a Nurse for the Wilkes-Barre General Hospital for over 20 years, Intermountain Medical Group and most recently for Erwine’s Home Health Care of Kingston. 

Mary Anne was a member of St. Therese’s Church, Shavertown and the Appalachian Trail Club of Tennessee.  Mary Anne was very involved in the Alumni Association of Sidney High School, attending the yearly reunions and organizing the nature walks.

She and her husband David Cramton celebrated their 27th wedding anniversary on March 16, 2011.

She was preceded in death by her first husband James Haggerty Sr. on December 29, 2004, brother Ernest A. Maynard Jr. and her sister Lucille Grant. 

Surviving, in addition to her husband David are her children James Haggerty Jr., Wilkes-Barre, Michael Haggerty and his wife Lauren, Boston, Massachusetts, Ann Marie Rudolph and her husband Matt, Harrisburg, Kathleen Haggerty, Plains, Michelle Kershaw and her husband Arthur, Narragansett, RI and Theresa Gianello and her husband Joseph, Old Forge, step-son David Cramton, Olympia, Washington, Grandchildren Eric, Jimmy, Sammy, Alec, Christopher, Mia, Vito and Rocco, sister Catherine Jones and her husband Philip, Johnstown, NY nieces and nephews.   

Funeral will be held Saturday at 9:30 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc. 20 South Main Street, Plains with a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 am in St. Therese’s Church, Shavertown.  Interment will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Hanover Twp. 

Friends may call Saturday morning from 8:00 am to 9:15 am.

Memorial donations may be made to the SPCA of Luzerne County, 524 E. Main Street, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702.

 

 

Vivien Hower
Died August 8, 2011

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Vivien Hower, 85, of Kingston and formerly of New York, died Monday evening at her home. Born in New York, New York, she was the daughter of the late Axel and Anna (Andersen) Stolander. Vivien was educated in New York Schools and was employed as a Massage Therapist for the New York Sports Club and in sales with Elizabeth Arden Cosmetics, New York. Surviving are her nephew and niece Robert and Bobbi Ann Dwyer, Kingston. Funeral Services and Interment are private and will be held at the convenience of the family. There will be no calling hours.

 

Marie Zdanowicz
Died August 5, 2011

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Marie Zdanowicz, 83 of Westminster and formerly of Plymouth, passed away Friday afternoon at the Wilkes-Barre General Hospital.

Born in Plymouth, she was the daughter of the late Frank and Nell (Kanon) Kravabloski.

She attended Plymouth High School, and was employed in the local shoe factories as a factory worker.

Marie was a member of All Saints Parish, Plymouth and its Altar and Rosary Society.

She was preceded in death by her husband Joseph Zdanowicz, brothers Francis, Jr., Leonard, and Robert Kravabloski, sisters Florence Czievich, Phyliss Kravabloski, and Dorothy Desiderio.

Surviving are her sister Lorraine Rodeghiero and her husband Larry, Westminster, brother Robert J. Kravabloski, Shickshinny Lake, Several Nieces and Nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Monday at 10:00 am in All Saints Parish, 66 Willow Street, Plymouth.  Friends are invited to go directly to church Monday morning.  Interment will follow in St. Mary’s Nativity Cemetery, Plymouth.  Friends may call Sunday evening from 5 to 8 pm at the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street, Plains. 

Memorial donations may be made to the Special Olympics of Pennsylvania  

2570 Boulevard of the Generals, Suite 124  Norristown, PA 19403.

 

Marion Schwerdtman
Died July 29, 2011

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Marion Schwerdtman, 84, of the Brookside section of Wilkes-Barre, died Friday evening at her home surrounded by her family.

Born in Wilkes-Barre, she was the daughter of the late Robert and Elizabeth (Hoffman) Williams.

Marion was a graduate of St. Nicholas High School, Wilkes-Barre, Class of 1945 and the Wyoming Valley Homeopathic Hospital School of Nursing, Wilkes-Barre.  She was employed as a Nurse at Brooklyn Jewish Hospital.  She was a member of St. Nicholas Church, Wilkes-Barre. 

She was an avid NY Mets fan and enjoyed going out to dinner. 

She was preceded in death by her husband Henry Schwerdtman on October 5, 1971 and her brother James G. Williams. 

Surviving are her children Susan Miltimore, Wilkes-Barre, James Schwerdtman and his wife Margaret, Dallas, Betty Jeanne Segear and her husband Edward, with whom Marion resided in Wilkes-Barre and Kevin Schwerdtman and his wife Joan, Exeter, Grandchildren John, Timre, Erika, Justine, Randi and Sierra Segear, Jimmy, Amanda, Kourtny and Abigail Schwerdtman, Sister Betty Jeanne Coolbaugh, Dallas, nephews and nieces. 

Funeral will be held Tuesday at 8:45 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc. 20 South Main Street, Plains with a Mass of Christian Burial at 9:30 am in St. Nicholas Church, Wilkes-Barre.  Interment will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery, Carverton.

Friends may call Monday from 5 to 7 pm.

Memorial donations may be made to St. Nicholas Church, 226 South Washington Street, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702.

 

Charles E. Corcoran
Died July 28, 2011

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Charles E. Corcoran, 85, of Plains Township, died Thursday evening at the inpatient unit of Hospice of the VNA, Heritage House, Wilkes-Barre.

Born in Plains, he was the son of the late Charles A. and Frieda (Krauser) Corcoran.

Charles was a graduate of Plains Memorial High School and was employed for the US Postal Service until his retirement.  He was an Army Veteran of World War II serving with Company “A” of the 134th Infantry and was awarded the Bronze Star for heroism in ground combat in Fossieux, France on October 9, 1944.  He was a life member of the Swoyersville American Legion, Post 644, the Disabled American Veterans, Chapter 16-PA, and the LANI Club Post 6325, Hudson, and was also a member of the Polish Club and Russian Club, both of Plains. 

He was preceded in death by his wife the former Bernadine A. Rynkiewicz on November 17, 2003 and sisters Annette Figlock, Shirley Bachman and Peg Mishkin.

Surviving are his son Jeffrey, Plains, Daughters Irene Daddario and her husband Ralph, Limerick, PA and Pamela Haddle and her husband Daniel, Dallas, Grandchildren Gary, Daniel, Erica, Jessica, Matthew and Haley, Great-Grandchildren Emma, Mia and Connor and Brother Edward K. Corcoran, Cincinnati, Oh, several nieces and nephews. 

Funeral will be held Monday at 9 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc. 20 South Main Street, Plains with a Mass of Christian Burial at 9:30 am in SS. Peter & Paul Church, Plains.  Interment with Military Honors will be held in Fern Knoll Burial Park, Dallas.

Friends may call Sunday from 4 to 7 pm.

Memorial donations may be made to the Wilkes-Barre VA Medical Center, 1111 East End Blvd. Wilkes-Barre, PA 18711.

 

 

Renee (Mooney) Carr
Died July 25, 2011

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Renee (Mooney) Carr, 48 of Edwardsville and formerly of Wilkes-Barre, passed away Monday evening at the Wilkes-Barre General Hospital after a long and courageous battle with LUPUS.

Born in Wilkes-Barre, she was the daughter of Gloria (Jones) Mooney Ward of Edwardsville, and the late Martin Mooney.

She was a graduate of Bishop Hoban High School, Wilkes-Barre, Class of 1981 and was employed for Sallie Mae in the Clerical Department and for the Wilkes-Barre General Hospital in the Purchasing Department.

Surviving in addition to her mother Gloria are her son Peter Carr, Wilkes-Barre, brother Joseph Mooney and his wife Shelia, Warrior Run, uncles Donald Jones, Mountaintop, and Edward Jones, Wilkes-Barre, nephew Joey Mooney, nieces Abbey and Megan Mooney, cousins, and her dog Nikki.

Funeral will be held Friday at 10:15 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street Plains, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 am in St. Nicholas Church, Wilkes-Barre.  Interment will be held in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Hanover Twp., at the convenience of the family.

Friends may call Thursday evening from 5 to 8 pm.
Memorial donations may be made in Renee’s name to the Lupus Foundation of America, Inc.  PO Box 418629   Boston, MA 02241-8629.

 

Darlene O’Brien
Died July 24, 2011

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Darlene O’Brien, 47 of Wilkes-Barre, passed away Sunday afternoon at the Wilkes-Barre General Hospital.

Born in Wilkes-Barre, she was the daughter of Henry T. Rembish, Sr. of Hanover, and the late Alberta (Madden) Rembish.

Darlene was a graduate of James M. Coughlin High School, Wilkes-Barre, Class of 1981, and was self-employed as a hairdresser.

She was preceded in death by her brother Henry T. Rembish, Jr., on June 3, 2011. 
Surviving in addition to her father Hank are her son Christopher O’Brien and his wife Gina, Falls Church, VA, brother Leo Febish, Nevada, sisters Donna Hontz and her husband David, and Kelly Rembish, all of Wilkes-Barre, Step-mother Jean Rembish, step-brother Robert Swan and his wife Kim, Dupont, and step-sister Tricia Nardone and her husband Jim, Charlottesville, VA, sister-in-law Joyce Rembish, Dupont, several nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Funeral services will be held Thursday at 9:30 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street, Plains.  Interment will be held in St. Ignatius Cemetery, Pringle. 

Friends may call Wednesday evening from 5 to 7 pm.

Memorial contributions may be made in care to Darlene’s nephew Madden Rembish C/O People's Choice Federal Credit Union 401 York Avenue  P.O. Box 2096  Duryea, PA  18642-0096.

 

 

Eleanor G. Kraft
Died July 25, 2011

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Eleanor G. Kraft, 98 of Plains, Twp., passed away Monday morning at the Wilkes-Barre General Hospital.

Born in Hazleton, she was the daughter of the late Charles and Wilheminia (Ritz) Gleim.

She was a graduate of Hazleton High School, and was employed as a factory worker in the garment industry.

She was preceded in death by her husband Chester, sisters Audrey and Ruth, brothers Robert and Phil.

Surviving are her daughter Nancy Rossi, with whom she resided, 3 grandchildren, 2 great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held at the convenience of the family.  Arrangements by the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street, Plains.

 

Bernice Alice Chandler
Died July 10, 2011

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Bernice Alice (Smith) Chandler of Plains passed away at Hospice of the VNA, Heritage House, Wilkes-Barre, on July 10, 2011, the day of her 81st birthday.

Born July 10, 1930, in the Miners Mills section of Wilkes-Barre, she was the daughter of the late Michael John and Estella Marie (Huhn) Smith. 

She was a graduate of James M. Coughlin High School, Wilkes-Barre, Class of 1948 and was employed by the Wilkes-Barre General Hospital as a Medical Records Analyst for twenty-one years until her retirement.

She was a former member of Blessed Sacrament Church, Miners Mills, and its Altar and Rosary Society and a current member of SS. Peter & Paul Church, Plains.  Bernice was associated with the Girl Scouts as a program director and was also a Catholic Daughter Counselor at the former St. John the Evangelist Church, Wilkes-Barre.

She was preceded in death by her brothers John, Joseph, Frederick, Laurence, Thomas and Aloysius; sister Mary Ann (Smith) Chandler, sons-in-law Edgar Strong Massey, Jr., and Edward Eugene McCarthy.

Surviving are her husband of 61 years Bernard F. Chandler, Sr.; daughters Catherine Oliveira and her husband Hugo, Saint Lazare, Quebec, Canada; Deborah Zuzelski and her husband Louis, Plains; Barbara Massey Goglia and her husband Michael, Catonsville, MD; Alison McCarthy, Laflin; Susan Finn and her husband Thomas, Mt. Penn, PA; sons Bernard F. Chandler, Jr. and his wife Deborah,  Bel Air, MD; Steven Chandler and his wife Holly, Exeter; grandchildren Caitlin Vilar-Oliveira, Steven Oliveira; Louis Zuzelski, Jr., Juliann Mosley; Julia and Catherine Massey; Edward, Jr., Alissa and Aileen McCarthy, Erin Grosz; Jessica, Kimberly and Leisa Chandler; Kelly Steffy, Thomas and Caleb Finn; Shane and Ian Chandler; 12 great-grandchildren, many nieces and nephews.

A Memorial Mass will be held on Monday, July 18, 2011 at 9:30 am in Ss. Peter & Paul Church, 25 Hudson Road, Plains.   The family will receive friends one hour prior to service at the church. At Bernice’s request, there will be no additional calling hours.

In lieu of flowers, gifts in memory of Bernice Chandler may be directed to support the Medical Oncology Prescription Assistance Fund at 382 Pierce Street, Kingston, PA 18704.

Arrangements by the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street, Pains, PA 18705.

 

 

George Samuel Roberts III
Died July 6, 2011

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George “Georgie” (also affectionately known as Shorty) Samuel Roberts III, 6, of Wilkes-Barre, died Wednesday, July 6th at Geisinger Medical Center, Danville after a swimming accident. 

Born in Hazleton, he was a son of George Samuel Roberts II and Ann Marie (Snyder) Howey.

Georgie attended the Luzerne Intermediate Unit Preschool for the Hearing Impaired and recently completed Kindergarten at Heights/Murray Elementary School.  He loved playing outdoors and watching Sponge Bob, Curious George and iCarly. 

He was preceded in death by his grandfathers Jack Jones and George Samuel Roberts Sr.

Surviving are his parents George Samuel Roberts II, Hazelton and Ann Marie and Daniel Howey, Wilkes-Barre, Brother Eric Snyder and sister Rebecca Roberts, Maternal Grandmother Beverly Ann Snyder, Phillipsburg, NJ and Paternal Grandmother Elva Roberts, Hazleton, Albert Wilcosky (who Georgie called Poppy), Aunt Barbara Roberts, Hazleton and cousins Lydia and Emily.

Funeral Services will be held Monday at 7 pm in the Luzerne United Methodist Church, 446 Bennett Street, Luzerne with Pastor Carol Coleman officiating.  Friends may call at the Luzerne United Methodist Church from 5 to 7 pm.  Interment will be private and held at the convenience of the family. 

Arrangements by the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc. 20 South Main Street, Plains, Pa 18705.

Memorial Donations may be made to Janet Weis Children’s Hospital, Geisinger Medical Center, 100 North Academy Avenue, Danville, Pa 17822.

 

 

Dorothy M. Garinger
Died July 1, 2011

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Dorothy M. Garinger, 91, of Pittston, died Friday morning at the inpatient unit of Hospice Community Care, Geisinger South, Wilkes-Barre.

Born in Madison Wisconsin, she was the daughter of the late Hans Peter and Martha Jensen Nielsen.  Dorothy was a graduate of Waterloo High School, Waterloo Wisconsin, and was a Homemaker all her life.

Dorothy was an Army Air Force Veteran of World War II, attaining the rank of Sgt. And received the World War II  Victory Medal, American Theater Ribbon and the WAAC  Service Ribbon.

She was a member of Westminster Presbyterian Church, Wilkes-Barre; the Irem ladies Auxiliary, Wilkes-Barre General Hospital Auxiliary and the Retired Senior Volunteers Program (RSVP).

Dorothy was preceded in death by her Husband; William on January 30, 2005; Son Richard on November 13, 1996; Sisters; Elsie Goodwin and Catherine Shepard.

Surviving are her Daughter Gail Garinger, Cary, North Carolina; Daughter In Law, Cathy Garinger, Plains;  Grandson and Wife, William and Rachel Garinger, Mooresville, North Carolina; Granddaughter and her Husband; Laurie and Paul Marchus, Tucson Arizona; Great-Grandchildren, Madison and William Garinger, Mooresville, North Carolina and Noah and Nicole Marchus, Tucson Arizona.

Funeral services will be held Tuesday at 11:00 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home Inc. 20 South Main Street Plains, with Reverend Anne Emery, Pastor of  Westminster Presbyterian Church, officiating. Interment will be in Mt. Greenwood Cemetery, Trucksville.

Friends may call Tuesday morning from 9:30 am until time of service.

Memorial donations if desired may be made to Westminster Presbyterian Church, 2 Lockhart Street, Wilkes-Barre, Pa. 18702 or Hospice Community Care 601 Wyoming Avenue, Kingston, Pa. 18704.

 

 

Robert Michael McKeown
Died July 1, 2011

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Robert Michael McKeown, 75, of Wilkes-Barre, died Friday afternoon at the inpatient unit of Hospice of the Sacred Heart, Geisinger South, Wilkes-Barre, after a lengthy illness. 

Born April 18, 1936 in Wilkes-Barre, he was the son of the late James and Mary (O’Brien) McKeown.  Robert was a graduate of St. Mary’s High School, Wilkes-Barre, Class of 1953.  He attended King’s College, Wilkes-Bare.  He was a member of St. Therese’s Church, Wilkes-Barre. He served for two years in the U.S. Army.  Robert was retired from the Wilkes-Barre Housing Authority and also previously worked as a Stereotyper for the Sunday Independent and the International Color Press, Wilkes-Barre.

Robert’s greatest joy was spending time with his family and his pets, Smokey and Happy.  He was also an avid scratch golfer, having had seven holes-in-one.  All those who met Robert will remember his quick wit and dry sense of humor. 

Preceding him in death was his sister, Anne McKeown and his granddaughter, Colleen Young. 

Surviving are his devoted wife, the former Rose M. Gallagher, with whom he would have celebrated their 55th wedding anniversary in August, Daughter Judith Young and her husband Timothy, Shavertown, Sons, Robert, Bronx, NY, Patrick, Miners Mills, Thomas, Wilkes-Barre, James and his wife Katie, Wilkes-Barre Twp., and Dennis, Wilkes-Barre, grandchildren Dennis McKeown Jr., Kevin and Kelly Young, Sister Marian Roski, Wilkes-Barre, Brothers James, Whitesboro, NY and J. Eugene, Audubon, PA, several nieces and nephews. 

The family would like to thank all who helped Robert throughout his illness, especially Dr. Bruce Saidman and Lori from Medical Oncology Associates. 

Funeral will held Wednesday at 8:45 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street, Plains with a Mass of Christian Burial at 9:30 am in St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception Church, Our Lady of Fatima, Parish, Wilkes-Barre, with Rev. Msgr. Thomas V. Banick, Pastor officiating.  Interment will be private and held at the convenience of the family. 

Friends may call Tuesday from 5 to 8 pm.

 

Pearl Lispi Panzetta

Died June 30, 2011

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Pearl Lispi Panzetta, 84, of Plains Township, died Thursday afternoon at Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center, Plains Township.

Born in Pittston, she was the daughter of the late Samuel and Angelina (Menichini) Lispi. 

Pearl was a graduate of Pittston Township High School and was employed as a Seamstress in the Area Garment Industry for many years.  She was currently employed as a Housekeeper for the Wilkes-Barre Area School District.  She was a member of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, Pittston.

Surviving are her daughter Gloria Chiucchi and her husband James, Plains and her son Michael Panzetta and his wife Lori, Dallas, Grandchildren James Chiucchi Jr. and his wife Melissa, Columbus, OH, Jillian and Jeffrey Chiucchi, both of Plains, Michael Panzetta, Milton, Pa and Amy, Carisa and Ryan Panzetta, all of Dallas.

Funeral will be held Saturday at 9:15 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc.  20 South Main Street, Plains with a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 am in Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, Pittston.  Interment will be in Italian Independent Cemetery, West Wyoming. 

Friends may call Friday from 5 to 8 pm. 

 

Carole Ann Hill

Died June 28, 2011

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Carole Ann Tomasky Hill, 67, of Dallas, entered into her eternal rest, Tuesday, June 28th, 2011 at 8:15 p.m. at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania after a courageous battle. 

Carole was born in Swoyersville on January 23, 1944 to the late Joseph and Helen (Reto) Tomasky.  After graduating from West Side Central Catholic and College Misericordia, she began her career at the Luzerne County Courthouse.  Her next position was at the Denison Cemetery helping families at their most difficult time with grace and compassion.  During her retirement, she enjoyed gardening, sketching, volunteering, cooking, her membership in the Gate of Heaven Alter & Rosary Society, Notre Dame and Penn State Football (as she would say, you CAN enjoy both!), spending time with her grandchildren, and her "just the girls" adventures with her daughter, Lynn.  Carole was a loving wife, devoted mother, and wonderful grandmother.  She was a great friend to all who knew her and many considered her a second mother. 

She is survived by her husband, David, with whom she celebrated her 40th anniversary in September, her son James Cunningham of Nanticoke, her daughter Lynn Hill of Nanticoke, and her two grandchildren, D.J. and Bailey Cunningham. 

The family would like to thank all of the loving and compassionate nurses who made her struggle as comfortable as possible....they truly are angels on earth. 

As Carole’s wishes, calling hours will be Friday from 9 to 10 am at Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc. 20 South Main Street, Plains with a Mass of Christian Burial to celebrate Carole's life at 11am in Gate of Heaven Church, Dallas.  Interment will be private and held at the convenience of the family. 

In lieu of flowers, if desired, donations may be made to Gate of Heaven Church, 40 Machell Ave. Dallas, PA 18612 and Go Red for Women - American Heart Association 613 Baltimore Drive, Wilkes-Barre, Pa 18702. 

 

 

Regina C. Ganaposki
Died June 11, 2011

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Regina C. Ganaposki, 77, of Wilkes-Barre, died Saturday morning at the inpatient unit of Hospice Community Care, Geisinger South, Wilkes-Barre. 

Born in Mt. Top, she was the daughter of the late Isadore Mary (Novak) Ganaposki.

Regina was a homemaker all her life and attended St. Nicholas Church, Wilkes-Barre. 

She was preceded in death by her Sister Dorothy Wills, Brothers Joseph Ganaposki and Charles May. 

Surviving are her daughter Mary Josuweit and her husband Sam, Bloomingdale, Son Jeffrey Ganaposki, Marietta, GA Grandchildren Melissa Rhein and her husband Steve, Amy, Erik, Laura and Luke Josuweit, Alia, Kagan and Mica Ganaposki, Brother Gerald Ganaposki, Wilkes-Barre, Nieces and Nephews. 

Funeral Services for Regina will be held Wednesday at 7 pm at Living Hope Bible Church, 35 South Main Street, Plains, with Pastor Mark DeSilva officiating.  Interment will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Hanover Twp.

Memorial donations may be made to Living Hope Bible Church, 35 South Main Street, Plains, Pa 18705.

 

 

Edward J. Cognigni

Died June 8, 2011 

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Edward J. Cognigni, 89 of Plains, Twp., died Wednesday afternoon at the Wilkes-Barre General Hospital.

Born in Plains, he was the son of the late Luigi and Louise (Giamarini) Cognigni.

Edward was employed as a coal miner for many years and for 16 years he was employed for the Plains Township Recreation Department until his retirement.

Ed was very proud of all of his family and was an avid fisherman.  He was a member of St. Maria Goretti Church, Laflin.

He was preceded in death by his wife the former Ann Ninotti on November 16, 1985, daughter Catherine Simms on August 18, 1999, and brother Chester Cognigni.

Surviving are his Grandchildren, Lori Ann George and her husband Mark, Bear Creek and Lawrence Simms and his wife Karen, Plains, Great Grandchildren Cameron and Mallory George and Samantha Simms, Sisters Theresa Bush and Geraldine Walsh with whom he resided in Plains, Twin Brother Ernest Cognigni, Bensalem, Pa several nephews and nieces. 

Funeral will be held Monday at 12 pm from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street, Plains, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 12:30 pm in St. Maria Goretti Church, Laflin.  Interment will be in Italian Independent Cemetery, West Wyoming. 

Friends may call Sunday from 4 to 6 pm. 

The Parish Rosary Group will recite the Divine Mercy Chaplet and Rosary in the Church ½ hour before the funeral mass.  All are invited to join them.

 

 

Charles J. Krommes

Died June 8, 2011

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Charles J. Krommes, 80, of Plains Township, died Wednesday morning at Kingston Commons Nursing Center. 

Born in Wilkes-Barre, he was the son of the late Erwin and Helen (McDade) Krommes. 

Charles attended Elmer L. Meyers High School and was employed for Carter Footwear of Wilkes-Barre, until his retirement. 

He was preceded in death by his brothers William, Hugh, Ray and Robert Krommes and twin infant brothers, daughter-in-law Suzanne Krommes

Surviving is his wife, the former Alice Gabel and son Charles Krommes, Jr., Plains, Sister Eleanor Hassel, several nephews and nieces. 

Funeral Services will be held Friday at 2:00 pm from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street, Plains, with Joseph A. Kearney, officiating.  Interment will be held at the convenience of the family.

Friends may call Friday afternoon from 1:00 pm until 2:00 pm.

The family would like to thank Dr. Warner and Wendy at the Kistler Clinic and the fourth floor nurses at Kingston commons for their wonderful care of Charles.

 

 

Patricia R. Frank

Died June 8, 2011

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Patricia R. Frank, of Laflin, died Wednesday afternoon at her home. 

Born in Mount Carmel, PA, she was the daughter of the late Walter and Grace (Wary) Barrett.

Patricia was a graduate of Pottsville High School and was Vice President of Centralia Coal Sales Company, Wilkes-Barre.  She was a member of St. Maria Goretti Church, Laflin. 

Patricia was a very loving Wife, Mother and Grandmother who will be dearly missed. 

She was preceded in death by her granddaughter Grace Dobson. 

Surviving are her husband of 62 years Joseph A. Frank, Children Joseph A. Frank, Jr. and his wife Gail, Kingston, Jane Costanza and her husband Michael, Laflin, Judith Crouse and her husband Carl, Allentown, Jill Dobson and her husband Mark, Merrimac, MA and Jeffrey Frank and his wife Sharon, High Bar Harbor, NJ, 13 Grandchildren, Brother Walter Barrett, Jr., Manchester, NY, Sisters Elsie Garhammer, Park Forest, Il, Joan Dinger, Pottsville, Pa and Janet Brown, Coal Twp., PA, several nephews and nieces. 

According to Patricia’s wishes, funeral arrangements are private and will be at the convenience of the family. There will be no calling hours.  Arrangements by the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street, Plains, PA  18705.

Memorial donations may be made to St. Maria Goretti Church, 42 Redwood Drive Laflin, Pa 18702, St. Vincent de Paul Soup Kitchen 39 E. Jackson Street  Wilkes-Barre, PA  18702, The Catholic Youth Center 36 South Washington Street  Wilkes-Barre, PA  18702, or to King’s College, 133 North River Street  Wilkes-Barre, PA  18702.

 

 

 

Jennie M. Klimek
Died May 30, 2011

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Jennie M. Klimek, 84, of Plains Township, died Monday morning at the inpatient unit of Hospice of the Sacred Heart, Geisinger South, Wilkes-Barre.

Born in Plains, she was the daughter of the late Joseph and Vinsula (Beacon) Masonis. 

Jennie was a graduate of Plains Memorial High School, Class of 1945.  She was employed as a seamstress in the area garment industry and was a member of the ILGWU.  Jennie was a member of St. Francis Church, Miners Mills. 

Jennie was a fun person who liked to laugh and be silly and tell jokes, even if she forgot the punch line.  It was very easy for her to talk to and meet new people wherever she went.  She loved meeting people and talking to them and enjoyed polka dancing and spending time at the Casino.  She cherished the time she spent with her grandchildren and great grandchildren and her time at her cottage at Mountain Lake. 

She was preceded in death by her husband Frank R. Klimek on September 7, 2000 and her sister Lena Masonis on March 18, 2002. 

Surviving are her daughters Eileen Maskinas and her husband Fabian, Plains and Sandra Drevenik, Plains, Granddaughters Jennifer Partash and her husband Joe, Michelle Lasoski and her husband Rick and Jessica Maskinas and her fiancé Wally Danko, Jr., Great Granddaughter Kayla Marie and Ava Marie Danko and Sarah Lasoski, son-in-law Greg Drevenik, Hudson, Sister-in-laws Mary Opiela and Cassie Barnak both of Dupont, Grace Kilmek, Pittston and brother-in-law Stanley and Marie Klimek, new Jersey, several nephews and nieces. 

Funeral will be held Friday at 9:30 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street, Plains with a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 am in St. Francis Church, Miners Mills.  Interment will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery, Wyoming.

Friends may call Thursday from 5 to 8 pm. 

 

 

Helen L. Kondracki
Died May28, 2011

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Helen L. Kondracki, 82, of Plains Township, died Saturday evening at Kingston Commons Nursing Center, Kingston. 

Born in Mountain Top, she was the daughter of the late Paul and Eva (Gobbla) Lebert Sr.

Helen was a graduate of Pittston High School, Class of 1946 and was employed as a Data Processor for the Social Security Administration.  She was a member of SS. Peter & Paul Church, Plains. 

She was preceded in death by a sister Eleanor Lebert.

Surviving is her husband of 46 years Frank Kondracki, son Michael Kondracki and his wife Maureen, Denton, Texas, Grandsons Brandon and Nathan and granddaughter Leah, Brothers Fred Lebert, Pittston and Paul Lebert, Maryland, Sisters Elizabeth Yeremsky, Doris Soltis and Paulette Lebert, all of Pittston, several nephews and nieces. 

Funeral will be held Wednesday at 9:00 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home Inc., 20 South Main Street, Plains with a Mass of Christian Burial at 9:30 am in SS. Peter & Paul Church, Plains.  Interment will be in Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Wyoming. 

Friends may call Tuesday from 6 to 8 pm. 

Memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, 63 North Franklin Street, Wilkes-Barre, Pa 18702.

 

 

Jack Craig
Died May 24, 2011

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Jack Craig, 50 of Mountaintop, passed away Tuesday evening at his home.

Born in Plains, Twp., he was the son of Frederick Craig of Berwick, and the late Magdalen (Atkinson) Craig.

Jack was a graduate of Bishop Hoban High School, class of 1979, and earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Information Systems from Kings College in 2008.

He was a member of St. Jude’s Church, Mountaintop, and was a former sponsor of the RCIA program at church.

Jack was an avid New York Mets and New York Jets fan and loved his Rock and Roll Music.

Surviving in addition to his father are his wife the former Tracy Stitzer, children Leigh Maria, and Jayson Richard, sisters Bridget Craig, Norristown, and Barbara Craig, New Brunswick, NJ, sisters-in-law Natalie Stanton and her husband Curt, Bellefonte, PA, and Tamara Cates and her husband Michael, Boise Idaho, 3 nephews and 1 niece.

A Memorial Mass will be held Tuesday, May 31, 2011 at 10:00 am in St Jude’s Church, Mountaintop with Father Gerald Shantillo, officiating.  Interment will be held at the convenience of the family.

Friends are invited to call Tuesday morning from 9:00 am until 10:00 am at St. Jude’s Church. 

In Lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to an educational fund for Jack’s children Leigh and Jayson.

Arrangements by the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street, Plains, PA  18705.

 

Joseph R. Thomas
Died February 4, 2011

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Joseph R. Thomas, 68 of Haines City, Florida, and formerly of Wilkes-Barre, passed away February 4, 2011 at Good Shepherd Hospice, Auburndale, FLA.

Born in Wilkes-Barre, he was the son of the late Joseph and Julia (Swalik) Thomas.

Joe was a graduate of James M. Coughlin High School, Wilkes-Barre, Class of 1960, and Kings College, Wilkes-Barre, Class of 1965.  He privately tutored students in New York City, Daniel J. Flood Elementary School, Wilkes-Barre, and most recently for students at the First Presbyterian Church, Haines City, Florida.

He was employed for Balester Optical of Wilkes-Barre for 35 years until his retirement.  Joe Collected coins and stamps and enjoyed gardening and sports.

Surviving are his wife the former Joanne (Dezinski) Marko, Haines City, FLA, and formerly of Plains, Twp., step-sons Stephen, Phillip, and John Marko, aunts Helen Ratkoff, Plains, and Mary Sabrack, Arizona, several cousins.

A Memorial Mass will be held Saturday, May 28, 2011 at 9:30 am in St. Mary’s Byzantine Catholic Church, North End section of Wilkes-Barre. Interment will be held in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Hanover Township. 

Friends may call Friday afternoon from 2 to 5 pm at the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street, Plains, PA  18705.  Panachida Service will be conducted at 2:00 pm.

The family would like to thank everyone for their prayers and good wishes.

 

Kevin J. Lanning
Died May 23, 2011

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Kevin J. Lanning, 48, of Laflin, passed away Monday evening at the Wilkes-Barre General Hospital. 

Born in Laflin, he was the son of the late Joseph P. and Lillian (Adamitis) Lanning. 

Kevin was a graduate of James M. Coughlin High School, Class of 1980 and King’s College, earning his Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science. 

He was a member of St. Maria Goretti Church, Laflin and was employed as Plant Manager for Trion Industries, Plains Township for 23 years.  Kevin was a very dedicated worker who always took care of his employees.  He was an avid Notre Dame Football and Philadelphia Flyers fan and enjoyed his son’s High School Sports.  Kevin will be remembered for his unique sense of humor and his loyalty to his many friends. 

Surviving are his wife of 18 years, the former Susan Yanchuk, Laflin, children Joseph, Katharine and Michelle, at home, brother Brian Lanning, Thornhurst and sister Sharon Kozlowski and her husband Joseph, Laflin and his dog Rudy, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins. 

A Funeral Mass will be held Friday at 10 am in St. Maria Goretti Church, 42 Redwood Drive, Laflin with Monsignor Neil Van Loon, Pastor officiating.  Interment will be held at the convenience of the family.

Friends may call Friday morning from 9 am to 10 am at church. 

The Parish Rosary Group will recite the Divine Mercy Chaplet and Rosary in the Church ½ hour before the funeral mass.  All are invited to join them.
Arrangements by the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc. 20 South Main Street, Plains.
Memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association 63 North Franklin Street, Wilkes-Barre, Pa 18702.

 

Helen P. Krubitzer
Died May 10, 2011

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Helen P. Krubitzer, 83, of Plains Township, died Tuesday evening at Wilkes-Barre General Hospital. 

Born in Plains, she was the daughter of the late Peter and Victoria (Novakovsky) Kunec.

Helen was a graduate of Plains Memorial High School, Class of 1945 and was employed for the Pennsylvania State Unemployment Security until her retirement. 

She was a member of the Parish Community of St. Andre Bessette, formerly the Parish Community of Northeast Wilkes-Barre and was a member of the First Catholic Slovak Ladies Association. 

Helen was preceded in death by her husband Carl E. Krubitzer on January 13, 2009, Brother Robert Kunec and infant brothers Peter, Andrew and Albert Kunec, Sisters Alberta Borkowski and Mary Morris. 

Surviving are her Brothers John Kunec, Rockville, MD, Edward Kunec and his wife Marie, Falls Church, VA, Dr. Peter Kunec and his wife Ingrid, McLean, VA and Thomas Kunec, Plains, Sister Margaret Plumlee and her husband Robert, Tulsa, Ok, Brother-in-law Dr. Raymond Borkowski, Laflin, nephews John and Raymond Borkowski and several other nephews and nieces. 

Funeral will be held Saturday at 10:00 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street, Plains, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 am in Sacred Heart of Jesus Church, North End section of Wilkes-Barre.  Interment will be in Sacred Heart Slovak Cemetery, Dallas. 

Friends may call Friday from 5 to 8 pm.

 

 

Richard H. Eustice

Died May 8, 2011

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Richard H. Eustice, 75, of Buck Township, died Sunday evening at the inpatient unit of Hospice of the Sacred Heart, Geisinger South, Wilkes-Barre.

Born in Plains, he was the son of Alvida (Tontini) Eustice of Plains and the late George Eustice. 

Richard was a graduate of Plains Memorial High School, Class of 1953 and was employed as a Pipeline Technician 4 for Transcontinental Gas Pipeline, now known as Williams Company.  He was a US Marine Corps Veteran and was a life member of the Marines Corps League, Black Sheep Detachment #412, Wyoming and the Plains American Legion, Joseph E. Conlon Post 558, the Frank Albert Memorial, Lodge #43, Wyoming, a member of Lodge 61 F & A.M. of Pennsylvania, Life member of the National Rifle Association and the Indian Lakes Sports Association where he served as Vice-President and on the Board of Directors, as well as the Chairman of the Road Committee for several years and several other committees.  He was an avid Hunter and Fisherman and bowled in the Dick McNulty Memorial Bowling League. 

In addition to his father, George Eustice, he was preceded in death by a sister. 

Surviving in addition to his mother Alvida Eustice are his wife of 52 years, the former Josephine Raggi, son Richard Jr. and his wife Renee, Bear Creek, Granddaughter Jessica Lynn Kozemko and her husband Ryan, Bear Creek, Brothers Eugene Eustice and his wife Susan, Shickshinny, and Joseph Eustice and his wife Eileen, Kingston, Sisters Jane Biniek and her husband William, Plains, Maryann Rubin and her husband Anthony, Falls and Deanna Eberhardt, Thornhurst, Aunt Florence Bellumori, several cousins, nephews and nieces. 

The family would like to thank the caregivers from Hospice of the Sacred Heart especially Mary Beth Mattei and staff and the staff at the inpatient units in Dunmore and Wilkes-Barre and Dr. Krishnakant Patel for the compassionate care they provided to Richard. 

Funeral will be held Friday at 11:00 am at St. Elizabeth’s Church, Bear Creek, with Father Jeffrey Paulish officiating.  Friends and family are invited to go directly to church.  Interment will be held at the convenience of the family. 

Friends may call Thursday from 6 to 8 pm at the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc. 20 South Main Street, Plains. 

The family requests that flowers be omitted and memorial donations be made to Hospice of the Sacred Heart, 600 Baltimore Drive, Wilkes-Barre, Pa 18702 or to SPCA of Luzerne County 524 E. Main Street, Fox Hill Road, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702.

 

 

Dolores M. Strausser
Died May 9, 2011

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Dolores M. Strausser, 75 of the Miners Mills section of Wilkes-Barre, passed away Monday morning at the Wilkes-Barre General Hospital, after a courageous battle against cancer.

Born in Wilkes-Barre she was the daughter of the late John & Helen (Lucas) Yanousky.

Dolores was a graduate of James M. Coughlin High School, Wilkes-Barre, and was employed as a weaver for the American Silk Mill, Hudson section of Plains, Twp.
She was a lifelong member of St. Francis Church, Miners Mills.

She was preceded in death by her husband John Strausser in 1985.

Surviving are her sons Paul Strausser and his wife Lisa, Plains, Wally Strausser, Miners Mills, and Jay Strausser and his wife Amy, Dallas, grandsons Paul, David, Brian, Jonathan, Jayson, and Joshua, several cousins.

Funeral will be held Thursday at 9:30 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street, Plains, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 am in St. Francis Church, Miners Mills.  Interment will be held in Mount Olivet Cemetery, Carverton section of Wyoming. 

Friends may call Wednesday evening from 5 to 8 pm.

The family would like to thank the staff and nurses at the Wilkes-Barre General Hospital, River Street Manor, The Oncology Associates, Kingston, and Dr. Paul Witt for their exceptional care of Dolores.

Memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society C/O 190 Welles St, Suite 118, Forty Fort, PA 18704.

 

 

Thomas D. Rolland
Died May 4, 2011

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Thomas D. Rolland, 30 of Luzerne, passed away Wednesday afternoon, May 4, 2011.

Born in Kingston, he was the son of William Rolland, Jr., of Shavertown, and the late Mary Charlene (Dennis) Rolland.

Tommy was a graduate of Wyoming Valley West High School, Class of 1999, and attended Indiana  University of Pennsylvania.

He was a member of Cross Creek Community Church, Carverton.  Tommy was an avid Norte Dame Football Fan and was a lover of music.  He was a very empathetic, fun loving guy who loved to fish and mountain bike.

Surviving in addition to his father are his wife the former Angelique Morris, Luzerne, brothers William Rolland, III, and his wife Stacy, Warrington, PA, and Robert Rolland and his wife Liza, Dallas, 5 nieces and nephews, paternal Grandmother Miriam Rolland, step-mother Sharon Rolland, father and mother-in-law Anthony and Elaine Morris, aunts, uncles and cousins.

Funeral Services will be held at the convenience of the family. There will be no calling hours.

Arrangements by the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street Plains, PA  18705. 

The family requests that flowers be omitted and that Memorial Donations may be made to the Luzerne Foundation in Tommy’s name, C/O 140 Main Street, 2nd Floor  Luzerne, PA  18709.

 

 

Peter M. Budzinski, Jr.
Died April 29, 2011

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Peter M. Budzinski, Jr, 71 of Plains, died Friday evening at Mountaintop Senior Care Center, Mountaintop.

Born in Plains, he was the son of the late Peter & Elizabeth (Breznay) Budzinski, Sr.

He was employed for Kraft Associates and Luzerne Products before his retirement.

Surviving are his wife the former Theresa Telencio, daughters Jacqueline Budzinski, Wilkes-Barre, Catherine Kreidler, Plymouth, 6 Grandchildren, 11 Great-Grandchildren, Brother Michael, Plains, Sister Mary Mosley, Wilkes-Barre, Twp.

Funeral service will be held Tuesday at 10:00 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc. 20 S. Main St., Plains.  Interment will be held in Maple Hill Cemetery, Wilkes-Barre.

Friends may call Monday from 7 to 9 pm.

 

 

Albert J. Baldrica
Died April 28, 2011

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Albert J. Baldrica, 72, of Kingston, died Thursday morning at the inpatient unit of Hospice Care of the VNA, Heritage House, Wilkes-Barre. 

Born in Plains, he was the son of the late Primo and Anna (Franchella) Baldrica. 

Albert was a graduate of Plains Memorial High School and was employed as a clerk for Miracle Mart, Wilkes-Barre and Sunshine Markets.  He was a member of SS. Peter & Paul Church, Plains. 

He was preceded in death by his sister, Christine Rompola. 

He is survived by numerous cousins. 

Funeral will be held Monday at 9:00 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street, Plains, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 9:30 am in SS. Peter & Paul Church, Plains.  Interment will be in Italian Independent Cemetery, West Wyoming.

Friends may call Sunday from 5 to 7 pm.

 

Mary Hamlin Dougherty
Died April 22, 2011

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Mary Hamlin Dougherty, 91, of Hughestown, died Friday morning at the home of her daughter Joyce Corcoran. 

Born in Hughestown, she was the daughter of the late Joseph and Anna (Roche) Hamlin. 

Mary attended Hughestown High School and was employed as a Machine Operator for Pittston Apparel until her retirement.  During WW II she aided in the war effort working as a Finisher in New Jersey for the Dept. of Defense.  She was a member of Our Lady of the Eucharist Church, Pittston and formerly of Blessed Sacrament Church, Hughestown. 

She was preceded in death by her husband of 49 years, Joseph Dougherty on May 23, 1993, Brother Joseph Hamlin, Sisters Madelyn Hurrey, Anna Boos and Genevieve McDermott. 

Surviving are her daughter Joyce Corcoran and her husband Raymond, Harrisburg, Grandsons, Jeffrey Corcoran and his wife Carlen, Harrisburg and Sean Corcoran, Hershey, Great Grandsons Aiden and Liam, Sisters Kathryn Ratchford, Duryea, Germaine McGuire, Dickson City and Carol Hobbs, Jenkins Twp., Nephews and Nieces. 

Funeral will be held Tuesday at 8:45 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street, Plains with a Mass of Christian Burial at 9:30 am in Our Lady of the Eucharist Church, Pittston.  Interment will be in Indiantown Gap National Cemetery, Annville, Pa.

Friends may call Monday from 5 to 7 pm.
The family requests that flowers be omitted and Memorial Donations, if desired, be made to St. Ann’s Basilica,  1229 Saint Ann Street, Scranton, Pa 18504.

 

James J. Haggerty
Died April 12, 2011

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James J. Haggerty, 69, of Kingston, died Tuesday evening at Manor Care Nursing Center, Kingston.

Born in Wilkes-Barre, he was the son of the late William and Margaret (Keblish) Haggerty. 

James attended James M. Coughlin High School, Wilkes-Barre and was Owner/Operator of Goodeal Transmissions, Wilkes-Barre.  He was a Pennsylvania National Guard Veteran serving with the 109th Field Artillery and was a member of St. Ignatius Church, Kingston. 

He was preceded in death by his brother William “Bucky” Haggerty.

Surviving is his wife of 45 years, the former Judy Treslar, Son, Mayor Jim Haggerty, Kingston, Daughters Dr. Kelly Haggerty Ahuna and her husband Kevin and Patricia Haggerty Lyle, Esq. and her husband Tim, both of Buffalo, NY, Grandchildren Ethan and Emily Ahuna and Quinlan and Zoe Lyle.  Brothers Robert Haggerty, Laflin and Thomas Haggerty, Wilkes-Barre, several nephews and nieces. 

Funeral will be held Saturday at 8:45 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street Plains, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 9:30 am in St. Ignatius Church, Kingston.  Interment will be in Fern Knoll Burial Park, Dallas. 

Friends may call Friday from 5 to 8 pm.

Memorial Donations may be made to the Kingston Ambulance Association or the Columbian Volunteer Fire Company, 600 Wyoming Ave. Kingston, Pa 18704.

 

 

Marie Zofcin
Died April 1, 2011

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Marie Zofcin, 79, a resident of Manor Care, Kingston, formerly of Watkins St., Swoyersville, passed away on Friday afternoon, April 1, 2001, at Manor Care Nursing Home, Kingston.

Born July 2, 1931, in Kingston, she was the daughter of the late George & Anna (Petras) Malast.

Mrs. Zofcin was a graduate of Larksville High School and served as a class officer.

Marie worked as a waitress at Gorda’s Care, Swoyersville, The HiLite Lounge in Kingston, and was employed for many years as an inspector at Fortune Fabrics, Swoyersville.

Marie was preceded in death by her husband Edward April 1, 1980, her daughter Lisa Forrest, Daughter in law Carol Andrukiewicz,  Granddaughter Alexis Zofcin and Grandson Mark Anthony Zofcin, Brother George Malast.

She is survived by her Daughters Marietta Surprise and Husband Gary, Texas;  Ann Larderi  Longo and Husband John, New Jersey; Karen Gilligan and her Husband John, Wyoming, Pa.;Dorothy Moncur and Husband Steve, New Jersey;  Sandra Balonis and Husband James, Minnesota; Sons; Mark Zofcin and Wife Gloria, New York; Eric Zofcin and Wife Gina, Texas; Sister; Eleanor Verfin and Husband Joseph, Forty Fort; 21 grandchildren  and 25 Great-Grandchildren,  several Nieces and Nephews.

A Memorial Service will be held at a later date.  There will be no calling hours.

 

 

Dolores Answini
Died April 2, 2011

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Dolores Answini, 74 of Provincial Towers, Wilkes-Barre, passed away Saturday morning, April 2, 2011, at Hospice Care of the VNA, Heritage House, Wilkes-Barre.

Born in the Browntown section of Pittston Township on March 3, 1937, she was the daughter of the late Raymond and Peg (Munley) McDonnell. Dolores was a graduate of Pittston Township High School, class of 1954.  She was a member of SS. Peter & Paul Church, Plains.  Dolores resided in the Keystone section of Plains most of her life.

In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her loving husband Emilio (Butch) Answini July 30, 2004, her son Robert T. Answini, Sr. on May 23, 2009 and brother Thomas McDonnell.

The family would like to thank the staff at Hospice Care of the VNA, for making her last days as comfortable as possible.

Surviving are her grandson Robert T. Answini Jr. and companion Inez Schultz of Wilkes-Barre; grandson Justin Answini of Wilkes-Barre; great grandson Robert E. Answini of Wilkes-Barre; sister Joan D’Ambrosio of Pittston; brother Raymond McDonnell of Exeter; sister and brother in law Susan & Paul Shovlin, Laflin; nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A Memorial Mass for Dolores will be held Tuesday at 9:30 am in SS. Peter & Paul Church, Plains.  Interment will be held in the Italian Independent Cemetery, West Wyoming.  Friends may call Tuesday morning at SS. Peter & Paul Church from 9:00 am until time of Mass.

Arrangements by the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street Plains, PA  18705.

Memorial donations may be made to SS. Peter & Paul Church, 13 Hudson Road  Plains, PA  18705 or the SPCA Of Luzerne County, 524 E. Main Street, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702.

 

 

Placido “Joseph’ Franchelli
Died March 27, 2011

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Placido “Joseph” Franchelli, 92, of Plains Township, passed away Sunday afternoon at Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center, Plains Township. 

Born in the Keystone section of Plains, he was the son of the late Placido Franchella & Mary (Gross) Franchella Salvatore, and step-son of the late Nick Salvatore.

Joe attended Plains Township schools and was a Merchant Marine Veteran of the Korean War. 

He was employed in the Construction Industry as a Labor Foreman, retiring after 50 years of service, working for numerous contractors in the valley.  Joe helped organize Labor Union 158, Dupont office. He was a member of the Perugia Beneficial Society, Keystone and St. Maria Goretti Church, Laflin. 

He was preceded in death by his wife the former Faye Centini on February 6, 1999, sister Anna Zalaffi, and step-brother Paul Salvatore.

Joe’s family would like to thank Dr. Charles Manganiello, and the staff at Wesley Village Nursing Home for their special care of Joe.

Surviving are his son Robert Frankelli and his wife Patricia, Bear Creek Twp., grandsons Adam Frankelli, Michael Frankelli and his wife Jamie, Robert Frankelli, and Sam Frankelli and his wife Tara, great-grandchildren Matthew, Antonio, Mitchell, and Gianna Frankelli, sister Jenny Stella, Hershey, and step-brother Angelo Salvatore, Keystone.

Funeral services will be held Thursday at 9:30 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street Plains, with Monsignor Neil Van Loon, pastor of St. Maria Goretti Church, Laflin, officiating.  Entombment will be held in Denison Cemetery, Swoyersville.

Friends may call Wednesday from 4 to 7 pm.

Memorial donations may be made to United Methodist Homes, Wesley Village Campus, 209 Roberts Road  Pittston, PA  18640 in Joe’s name.

 

 

Edward James Cawley
Died March 27, 2011

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Edward James Cawley, 59, of Wilkes-Barre, entered into eternal life on Sunday morning, March 27, 2011 at the Department of Veteran Affairs Medical Center, Plains, Twp., following a lengthily illness.
           
Born in Wilkes-Barre, PA on May 5, 1951, Edward was the son of the late Harold P. and
Anna (Stubbs) Cawley. He was a 1969 graduate of James M. Coughlin High School, Wilkes-Barre, and was a veteran of the United States Navy, Vietnam Era, serving in the Mid East from 1970 to 1972.
           
Edward was a member of numerous religious and civic organizations in Luzerne
and Lackawanna County, he was very active in the Pro-Life movement in North Eastern, PA, was a Eucharistic Minister and a member of the Fraternal Order of the Franciscan Fathers, and was a member of the Wilkes-Barre Barber Shop Quartet.
           
Edward is survived by a brother, Harold P. Cawley and sisters Ellen Liparula and
Annmarie McGraw and her husband Tim, all of Wilkes-Barre.  Also, nephews, nieces, great-nieces, great-nephew and cousins.
           
Funeral will be held Wednesday at 9:00 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc.,  20 South Main Street Plains, Pa with a Mass of Christian Burial at 9:30 am in Holy Saviour Church, East End section of Wilkes-Barre. Interment will be held in Saint Ignatius Cemetery, Pringle. 

Friends may call Tuesday from 4 to 7 pm.

The family would like to thank the staff of the VA Medical Center for their special care of Edward.
 
Memorial donations may be made to the American Diabetes Association, Scranton Pocono Highway  Scranton, PA  18505, to Pro-Life, 201 South Main Street, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702, or the charity of one’s choice.

 

 

Joseph Segeda
Died March 23, 2011

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Joseph Segeda, 79, of Plains Township, died Wednesday evening at the inpatient unit of Hospice of the VNA, Heritage House, Wilkes-Barre, surrounded by his family. 

Born in Port Blanchard, he was the son of the late Stanley and Julia (Shipos) Segeda. 

Joe was educated in Jenkins Twp. Schools and was employed for Craft Associates and then Tobyhanna Army Depot until his retirement.  He was also employed as a deliveryman for Sheehan’s Pharmacy, Plains.  Joe was an Army Veteran of the Korean War and was a member of the Korean War Vets, Wyoming, the Plains American Legion, Joseph E. Conlon, Post 558, Lithuanian Club, Inkerman and the Dick McNulty Memorial Bowling League.  He was a former member of Sacred Heart Church, Plains and currently was a member of SS. Peter & Paul Church, Plains. 

He was preceded in death by his brothers Peter, John, George, Michael and Adam Segeda, Sisters Judy Voldkewicz and Ann Bocra. 

Surviving are his wife of 57 years, the former Liz Gartley, Daughter Deborah Bronack and her husband Joseph, Plains, Sons Thomas Segeda and his wife Sharon, Dorrance and Jeffrey Segeda and his wife Alexis, Hunlock Creek, Grandchildren Eric Bronack and his fiancé Candice Schwartz, Sarah Bronack, Thomas Segeda and Kelly Segeda and her fiancé Jerry Lewis, Sister Mary Timek, Plains, several nephews and nieces. 

Funeral will be held Monday at 9 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street, Plains with a Mass of Christian Burial at 9:30 am in SS. Peter & Paul Church, Plains.  Interment with Military Honors by the Plains American Legion will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery, Carverton. 

Friends may call Sunday from 2 to 5 pm. 

Memorial donations may be made to the SS. Peter & Paul Church Food Pantry, 13 Hudson Road, Plains, PA 18705.

 

 

Oliver “Lee” Dominick
Died March 22, 2011

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Oliver “Lee” Dominick, 95 of the Hudson section of Plains, Twp., died Tuesday morning at the Wilkes-Barre General Hospital.

Born in the Keystone section of Plains, he was the son of the late Joseph & Dusolina (Evanglista) Dominick.

He was a graduate of Plains Memorial High School, and was a Navy Veteran of World War II.  Lee and his late wife the former Eve Matzel, founded Dominick’s Café in Hudson in 1947.

Lee was a member of the former St. Joseph’s Church, and a current member of SS. Peter & Paul Church, Plains, the Plains American Legion, Joseph E. Conlon, Post 558, and the Polish American Veterans Association, Hudson.  Lee was very interested in the youth of Plains and was the founder of the Plains Yankee Dugout Club and the Plains Yankee Football Program where he served as a Life Board Member.

A true New York Yankee fan, Lee and Dominick’s Café were well known for the support of the New York Yankees.  Winning the World Series was always a great celebration.

Lee was preceded in death by his wife the former Eve Matzel, brothers Barton (Barney), Anso & Berto Dominick, sisters Jennie Farneti, Ida Brady, & Josephine Adonizio.

The family would like to thank Dr. Charles Manganiello and his staff for their kind and compassionate care of Lee.

Surviving are his sons Louis and his wife Mary Ellen, Hudson, Robert and his wife Tina, Laflin, daughter Sandie Dominick, Ashley, 4 grandchildren, 2 great-grandchildren, 1 great-great-granddaughter, sister Flora Boccolini and Her Husband Gene, Hudson, companion Eleanor Donati, several nieces and nephews.

Funeral will be held Saturday at 9:00 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street, Plains, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 9:30 am in SS. Peter & Paul Church, Plains.  Internment with Military Honors conducted by the Plains American Legion will be held in the Italian Independent Cemetery, West Wyoming.

Friends may call Friday from 4 to 8 pm.

Memorial donations may be made to the SPCA of Luzerne County, 524 East Main Street, Wilkes-Barre, Pa 18702.

 

Stella Kostelansky
March 21, 2011

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Stella Kostelansky, 84, of Laflin, entered into eternal rest while surrounded by her loving family on Monday March 21, 2011.

Born in Summit Hill, Pa, she was the daughter of the late John and Sophie (Janusz) Kozuch. 

Stella was a member of St. Maria Goretti Church, Laflin.  She was a loving Wife, Mother and Grandmother.  Stella will be vividly remembered and profoundly missed. 

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 49 years, Michael Kostelansky and Granddaughter Lauren Kostelansky. 

Surviving are her sons Atty. Michael Kostelansky, Laflin and Ronald Kostelansky and his wife Lori, Pittston, Grandchildren Michael, Michelle, Marc, Justin, Austin and Kyle Kostelansky and Melissa McKenzie, Sister Jeanie Ziemianck, Several Nephews and Nieces. 

Mass of Christian Burial will be held Friday at 9:30 am in St. Maria Goretti Church, Laflin, with Monsignor Neil Van Loon, pastor, officiating.   The Parish Rosary Group will recite the Divine Mercy Chaplet and Rosary in the Church ½ hour before the funeral mass.  All are invited to join them.  Interment will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Wilkes-Barre. 

Friends may call Thursday from 6 to 8 pm at the Corcoran Funeral Home Inc., 20 South Main Street, Plains. 

Memorial donations may be made to St. Maria Goretti, Tree of Life, 42 Redwood Drive, Laflin, Pa 18702.

 

 

Mary Obremski
March 18, 2011
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Mary Obremski, 92, of Plains Township and formerly of Wilkes-Barre, died Friday afternoon at Riverstreet Manor Nursing Center, Wilkes-Barre. 

Born in Wilkes-Barre, she was the daughter of the late Michael and Kathleen (Katchmar) Yateshin.

Mary was a homemaker all her life.  She was a former member of Sacred Heart Church, Plains and currently a member of SS. Peter & Paul Church, Plains. 

She was preceded in death by her husband Joseph in 1991, sisters Ann Klimchak and  Rose Keris, Brothers Peter, John and William Yateshin.

Surviving are her sister Helen Olga Florio and her husband John, Plains, several nephews and nieces. 

Funeral will be held Tuesday at 9:00 am at the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc. 20 South Main Street, Plains with a Mass of Christian Burial at 9:30 am at SS. Peter & Paul Church, Plains.  Entombment will be held at the convenience of the family. 

Friends may call Monday from 5 to 7 pm.

 

Mary Kalinoski
March 18, 2011
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Mary Kalinoski of the Hudson section of Plains Township, peacefully passed into the loving arms of her Lord Friday evening.

Born in Exeter, she was the daughter of the late Mary Petro. 

She was a graduate of Exeter High School.  Shortly after graduation she began her life long career as a Seamstress working in the sewing industry and was a member of the ILGWU.  Mary also was employed at the Golden Palace, Parsons Section of Wilkes-Barre and the Plains American Legion as a Waitress, and she worked the Plains Voting Polls for many years.

Mary was known for her generosity and volunteerism and as a wonderful baker.  She enjoyed days playing with her loving companions Peaches and Sasha and activities at the Plains Senior Center.  Prior to her illness Mary walked at least 3 miles a day.  She loved plants and gardening.  She was a former member of St. Joseph’s Church, Hudson and currently was a member of SS. Peter & Paul Church, Plains. 

In addition to her mother, she was preceded in death by her brother Joseph Salvo.  Surviving are her husband Leonard M. Kalinoski, Sons Leonard J. of Hudson and Robert and his wife Deborah of Sweet Valley, Brothers Michael Salvo and his wife Enriqueta, Arizona and Robert Salvo, Florida, Sister Barbara Green and her husband Pat, California. 

Funeral Mass will be held Wednesday at 9:30 am at SS. Peter & Paul Church, Plains.  Interment will be held at the convenience of the family. 

There will be no calling hours.

Memorial donations may be made to the SPCA of Luzerne County, 524 East Main Street, Wilkes-Barre, Pa 18702.

Arrangements by the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc. 20 South Main Street, Plains, PA  18705.

 

Irene J. Fida
March 16, 2011
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Irene J. Fida, 86 of Baltimore, Maryland and formerly of the Keystone Section of Plains, passed away Wednesday March 16, 2011 at St. Joseph’s Hospital, Baltimore, MD.

Born in the Hudson section of Plains, she was the daughter of the late Nello & Lucy (Micheletti) Panattieri.

She was preceded in death by her husband Anthony Fida, and her brother Joseph Panattieri.

Surviving are her sister Louise Ronchi and her husband Enrico, East Brunswick, NJ, several nieces & nephews.

Funeral will be held Monday at 10:30 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main St. Plains, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 am in SS. Peter & Paul
Church, Plains.  Entombment will be in Good Shepherd Memorial Park, Westminster.

Friends may call Sunday from 5 to 8 pm.

 

Francis J. Williams
March 15, 2011
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Francis J. Williams, 83, of Plains Township, died Tuesday evening at Geisinger Wyoming Valley medical Center, Plains.  Previously he resided in Wyckoff, New Jersey for over 40 years and Exeter.

Born in Wilkes-Barre, he was the son of the late Loretta Dettmore Seigle and Carl Seigle and Francis J. Williams.

He was a graduate of King’s College Class of 1950.  Before retiring, he was a High School Science Teacher for the Midland Park Board of Education in New Jersey and a Park Ranger for Bergen County, New Jersey.  He was a devoted Roman Catholic attending daily Mass at several churches in the area, last being a member of St. Mark’s Parish, Inkerman.  He was a dedicated volunteer at St. Vincent de Paul Soup Kitchen, Wilkes-Barre.  He was a 3rd degree member of the Knights of Columbus President John F Kennedy Council 372, Pittston, PA, and a member of the Knights of Columbus in Midland Park, NJ.  He was a loving and devoted brother, uncle and great uncle. 

He was preceded in death by his brother Paul J. Williams, brother-in-law Joseph Cheponis and Niece Loretta Cheponis. 

Surviving are a sister, Margaret Cheponis, Scranton; a niece Ann Marie Mahlmann and her husband Jack, Clarks Summit, a nephew Michael Cheponis and his wife Teri, Pottstown and several Grand nephews and nieces.

Funeral will be held Friday at 9:30 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street Plains, with a Mass of Christian burial at 10:00 am in St. Benedict Parish, St. Dominic’s Church, Parsons section of Wilkes-Barre.  Interment will be in St. Catherine’s Cemetery, Moscow.

Friends may call Friday morning from 8:30 to 9:30 at the funeral home. 

Memorial donations may be made to the St. Vincent de Paul Soup Kitchen, 39 East Jackson Street, Wilkes-Barre, Pa 18702.

 

Eleanor A. Melochick
March 15, 2011
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Eleanor A. Melochick, 83, of the Miners Mills section of Wilkes-Barre, died Tuesday evening at the inpatient unit of Hospice of the VNA, Heritage House, Wilkes-Barre. 

Born in Plains, she was the daughter of the late Peter and Sophie (Rogalski) Yankoski. 

Eleanor was educated in Plains Township Schools and was employed for Carter Footwear, Wilkes-Barre until her retirement. 

She was preceded in death by her sisters Stella Moyer, Sarah Harley and Dolores Shiloski. 

Surviving are her son Joseph Melochick and his wife Leslie, Plains, Grandchildren Kendell and Jared Melochick, Brother Edward Yankoski, Michigan and Sister Josephine Makowski, Plains, Several Nieces and Nephews. 

Funeral Service will be held Saturday at 9:00 am at the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street, Plains.  Interment will be in Fern Knoll Burial Park, Dallas. 

Friends may call Friday from 4 to 7 pm. 

Memorial donations may be made to the SPCA of Luzerne County, 524 East Main Street, Wilkes-Barre, Pa 18702.

 

Marie Salvo
March 16, 2011
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Marie (Davis) Salvo, 83, formerly of Norwalk, CT died on March 16 at United Methodist Homes, Wesley Village Campus, Jenkins, Twp., after a long and courageous battle with Parkinson’s Disease.

Born January 3, 1928 in Scranton, PA, she was the daughter of the late Walter and Stella (Kelly) Davis. Mrs. Salvo was a devoted catholic, member of the Columbiettes and active participant in the Saint Ann’s Society in Norwalk, CT. She was a food-service employee at Roton Middle School in Rowayton, CT for over 17 years.  After her retirement she remained active, volunteering in many civic organizations and church committees. Marie had a way of making everyone feel welcome in her home and her quick wit could put a smile on anyone’s face. She was a selfless person whose compassion and dedication to others will be remembered by many. After her retirement, Mrs. Salvo enjoyed traveling with her husband and spending time with her grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her brothers Matthew Davis and Carl Davis, nephew Matthew (Buddy) Davis, father–in-law Patsy Salvo, mother-in law Mary Salvo and brothers in law Sam Salvo and Charles (Chick) Salvo.

She is survived by her loving husband of over 60 years, Ross Salvo of Pittston, PA; a son Pasquale Salvo and his wife Diane of Newtown, CT; a daughter Maryann Salvo Drennen and her husband Tom of Wethersfield., CT and five grandchildren: Elizabeth Salvo of Raymond, NH, Christine & Ross Salvo of Newtown, CT; and Alyssa & Kevin Drennen of Wethersfield, CT. She is also survived by her sister, Betty Pero of Old Forge,PA nieces Grace Pero and Marie Ciuferri also of Old Forge PA and Maryann Lussi of Old Boston, PA. She was blessed to have several devoted in-laws: Joe Salvo, Carrie Murray,  Lucy Salvo, Mary Falzone, Patricia Corcoran, and Helen Poole, several nieces and nephews

Funeral will be held Saturday, March 19, at 10:30 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street, Plains, PA  18705, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 am at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Roman Catholic Church, 237 William Street  Pittston, PA  18640.  Interment will be held in Denison Cemetery, Swoyersville.  Family and friends are invited to calling hours Friday, March 18 from 5-8 pm. The family requests that memorial contributions be made to Hospice of the Sacred Heart 600 Baltimore Drive in Wilkes-Barre, PA, 18702 in lieu of flowers.  

 

Rita J. Murawski
March 2, 2011

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Rita J. Murawski, 65, of Plains Township died Wednesday afternoon at Wilkes-Barre General Hospital. 

Born in Wilkes-Barre, she was the daughter of Kathleen (Penksa) Novak and the late Joseph Novak. 

Rita was a graduate of Plains Memorial High School, Class of 1963. 

Rita was a very kind and loving person who always saw the best in everyone.  She loved being retired and spending time with her grandchildren and was an avid Wilkes-Barre Penguins fan. 

Surviving are her husband Robert, Daughter Michelle Regelski and her husband Ronald, Spring City, Pa, son Robert Murawski and his wife Jennifer, Mt. Top, Grandchildren Brian Regelski, Jocelyn Rasmus, Robbie Murawski and Andrew Murawski, Brother Richard Novak, nephews and nieces. 

Funeral Services will be held at the convenience of the family.

There will be no calling hours. 

Friends and family are invited to attend the Interment which will be held Monday at 10am at Calvary Cemetery, Drums.

Memorial Donations may be made to the American Cancer Society, 190 Welles Street, Suite 118, Forty Fort, Pa 18704.

 

Dora Mae Hoover
Died February 27, 2011

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Dora Mae Hoover, 88, a resident of Wesley Village Nursing Center, died Sunday morning.

Born in Noxen, she was the daughter of the late Wesley and Lillian (Monroe) Belles.

Dora was educated in Courtdale schools and was employed as a Production Worker for Ortho Pharmaceuticals of Somerville, NJ. She and her husband Lincoln, lived in Inverness, Florida for 30 years before returning to the Valley.

She was preceded in death by her husband Lincoln Hoover on January 15, 2004, Brothers William, Donald and Roland Belles and Sister Goldie Hadsell.

Surviving are her son, Jack Griffith and his wife Patricia, Scotch Plains, NJ, Grandchildren Jay Michael Griffith and his wife Diane and Christopher Robert Griffith and his wife Jodee, Great Grandsons Michael, CJ, Ryan and Joseph Griffith, Numerous nephews and nieces.

Funeral Service will be held Wednesday at 2 pm at the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc. 20 South Main Street, Plains. Interment will be in Chapel Lawn Burial Park, Dallas.

Friends may call Wednesday from 1 to 2 pm.

Memorial donations may be made to United Methodist Homes, Wesley Village Campus 200 Roberts Road, Pittston, Pa 18640.

 

Josephine “Josie” G. Zielinski
February 26, 2011

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Josephine “Josie” G. Zielinski, 88, of the Parsons section of Wilkes-Barre, died Saturday afternoon at the inpatient unit of Hospice Community Care, Geisinger South, Wilkes-Barre.

Born in Wilkes-Barre, she was the daughter of the late John and Sophia Rose (Victor) Novak.

Josie was educated in Wilkes-Barre area schools and was employed in the Valley Cigar Factories as a Floor Lady for 40 years. She was a member of St. Benedict’s Parish, St. Dominic’s Church, Parsons section of Wilkes-Barre.

Josie exemplified the words “kindness and generosity”. She will be remembered by all for her Heart of Gold and a sense of humor that was second to none. Josie was always the life of the party.

She was preceded in death by her husband Adam Zielinski in 1974, Grandson Thomas Zielinski, Jr. on July 21, 2005, Brothers Walter, Joseph and Edward Novak, Sisters Sophie Strichek, Mary Hando, Annie Novak and Stella Melnick.

Surviving are her son Thomas Zielinski and his wife Deborah, Mountaintop, Grandson John Zielinski, Granddaughter Tracey Ann Bozek, Great Grandson Ryan Zielinski, Several Nephews and Nieces.

Funeral will be held Wednesday at 9:30 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc. 20 South Main Street, Plains with a Mass of Christian Burial at 10;00 am in St. Benedict’s Parish, St. Dominic’s Church, Parsons. Interment will be in Holy Trinity Cemetery, Bear Creek.

Friends may call Tuesday from 4 to 7 pm.

Memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, 63 North Franklin Street, Wilkes-Barre, Pa 18702.

 

Robert F. Binker
February 24, 2011

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Robert F. “BOBBY” Binker, 89 of Plains Township was called Safely Home on February 24, 2001 at Gino Merli Veterans Center, Scranton.
Bobby was born in Wilkes-Barre on August 15, 1921 a son of the late Robert A. and Caroline (Brown) Binker and was a lifelong resident of Plains Township.
He graduated Valedictorian of his Class in 1939 from Saint Nicholas High School, Wilkes-Barre.

He served his country in the United States Navy during World War II as a First Class Baker on the USS Brontes, Landing Ship Tanker.

He was a communicant of Saint Christopher’s Church, Bear Creek, Holy Saviour Church Wilkes-Barre and a member of the Plains American Legion, Joseph e. Conlon Post 558, for over 36 years

He was employed as a Nursing Assistant at the VA Medical Center from July, 1953 to April, 1981, retiring at that time.

Bobby had a great love for all his family and friends. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and vacationing with them in Canada. He was also an avid New York Yankees Fan.
He was predeceased by his wife of 57 years Celestine “Sally” Binker, who died on April 1, 2000. Sisters Marie C. Binker, on January 3, 1997 and Rosemary B. Frost on February 23, 2008.

Bobby leaves his children, Son, Richard Binker, his wife Debra, Daughter, Marilyn Johnson, her husband Richard. Grandsons Dale Binker, his wife Michelle, their son Chase (Great Grandson to Bobby), Jamie Binker, Neal Johnson and Granddaughter Amanda Johnson, all of Plains Township.

Also surviving are his sisters, Mrs. Jean Schneider, New Cumberland, Pa.; Mrs. Louise Hartman, Matawan, New Jersey; Mrs. Dorothy Breault, Chicopee Falls, Mass., Miss Carolyn Binker, Wilkes-Barre, Sisters-in Law, Germaine Talmadge, Wilkes-Barre, Lucille Moules, Wilkes-Barre, Brother-in-Law, Raymond Talmadge, Wilkes-Barre. Several nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.

The family extends its sincere gratitude to all the staff of the VA Medical Center, their Hospice and Home Based Primary Care Units. They provided excellent care to Bobby for several years and made it possible for him to spend this time at home.
Thank you is also extended to all the staff at the Gino Merli Veterans Center, Bayada Nurses and the Bureau of the Aging, for their care and support to Bobby.
Funeral will be held Tuesday at 9:00 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street, Plains with a Mass of Christian Burial at 9:30 am in Holy Saviour Church, 54 Hillard Street, Wilkes-Barre. Interment with Military Honors will be in Saint Nicholas Cemetery, Shavertown.

His Family will receive friends at the funeral home on Monday, February 28, 2011 from 5 to 8 pm.

Memorial Donations may be made, in his name, to the Plains Township Volunteer Ambulance Assoc. 90 Maffett Street, Plains, Pa. 18705, the VA Medical Center, Home Based Primary Care Unit, 1111 East End Blvd. Wilkes-Barre, Pa. 18711, or Bayada Nurses, 457 North Main Street , Suite 100, Pittston, Pa. 18640.

Americo “Jack” Pinnacoli
February 23, 2011

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Americo “Jack” Pinnacoli, 83, of the Hudson section of Plains, went to be with his wife, Clara in Heaven on Wednesday afternoon at the Wilkes-Barre General Hospital. 

Born in the Keystone Section of Plains, he was the son of the late Francesco and Lucia (Gaspari) Pinnacoli. 

Jack was a Graduate of Plains Memorial High School and was employed as a Supervisor at Tobyhanna Army Depot for 32 years.  He was a member of the Hudson Servicemen’s Club and the Perugia Beneficial Society, Keystone.  He was former member of St. Joseph’s Church, Hudson and was currently a member of SS. Peter & Paul Church, Plains. 

He was preceded in death by his wife the former Clara Bellack on March 8, 2009, Brothers Natali, Fernando and Giovanni Pinnacoli, Sisters Mary Riccetti and Lena Brennan. 

Surviving are his son Frank Pinnacoli and his wife Sharon, Hudson, Grandsons Frank Pinnacoli Jr. and Atty. Stephen Pinnacoli, Granddaughter Jessica Geiser and her husband Robert, Great Grandsons Frank Pinnacoli III, Joseph Pinnacoli and Robert Geiser IV expected to enter this world March 4th. 

The family would like to thank Drs. Kuchemba, Rupp and Desai and their staff and the staff of Hospice of the Sacred Heart for the compassionate care they showed to Jack.  

Funeral will be held Monday at 10:30 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc. 20 South Main Street, Plains with a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 am in SS. Peter & Paul Church, Plains.   Entombment will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery, Wyoming.

Friends may call Sunday from 5 to 8 pm. 

Memorial donations may be made to hospice of the Sacred Heart, 600 Baltimore Drive, Wilkes-Barre, Pa 18702.

 

 

Glenn Gambini
Died February 23, 2011

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Glenn Evro Gambini, 62, of the Miners Mills section of Wilkes-Barre was called home Wednesday morning at Wilkes-Barre General Hospital in the loving company of his family. 

Born in Plains, he was the son of Norma (Vinciarelli) Gambini and the late Evro Gambini. 

He was educated in Plains Township Schools and was employed for 38 years for Wilkes University in Food service.  Glenn’s smiling face and outgoing nature endeared him to the many students he came in contact with on a daily basis.  When not working, Glenn could be found at various Wilkes Sporting events cheering on the Colonels.  He was active at the Pro Life Center and with Plains Yankee Football, formerly serving as Sergeant-At-Arms.  He was a former member of St. Joseph’s Church, Hudson where he was very involved in all church activities and was currently a member of St. Benedict’s Church, parsons where he enjoyed volunteering his time at the Church Bazaar. 

In addition to his father, he was preceded in death by his sister Claudia (Gambini) O’Boyle. 

Surviving are his mother Norma (Vinciarelli) Gambini, Niece Claudette June and her husband Joseph III, Pittston, Great niece Courtney June and Great Nephew Joseph June IV, and several cousins. 

Funeral will be held Saturday at 9:30 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc. 20 South Main Street, Plains, with a Mass of Christian burial at 10 am in St. Benedict’s Church, Parsons.  Interment will be in Italian Independent Cemetery, West Wyoming.

Friends may call Friday from 5 to 8 pm. 

Memorial Donations may be made to the pro Life Center 31 Hanover Street, Wilkes-Barre, Pa 18702.

 

Richard “Dick” Ward
February 21, 2011

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Richard “Dick” Ward, 74, a resident of Edwardsville died Monday, February 21, 2011 at Hospice Care of the VNA at Heritage House, Wilkes-Barre after courageous battle with lung cancer. 

 Dick was born January 4, 1937 in Jermyn, PA the son of the late Winfield and Marion Burke Ward of Scranton, PA.   He graduated from Scranton Technical School and served in the US Navy for four years aboard the USS Intrepid.   He was the former owner of Ward’s Bar, Market St., Scranton. Dick played softball for Hannon's Tavern, Scranton and was an avid fan of Notre Dame football.   He loved playing 18 holes of golf whenever he found the time.  He was a member of the North End Slovak Club and the Hudson Serviceman’s Club.  Dick retired from Wilkes-Barre General Hospital as Director of Security on May 7, 2002. 

 In addition to his parents he is preceded in death by his first wife Marion Watkins Ward, son Richard Winfield Ward, Fort Lauderdale, Florida, a sister Marion Ward Cullen, Scranton.

 Surviving is his wife of 35 years Gloria Jones Ward, Edwardsville, Daughters Jane and Laura Ward, both of Scranton and Marian Callis, Dunmore, four grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, Brother Winfield “Windy” Ward, numerous nieces and nephews.

The family would like to thank Drs. David Greenwald and Bruce Saidman for the compassionate and wonderful care they gave to Richard also to the nurses at Hospice VNA at Heritage House E. Northampton St. Wilkes-Barre for their wonderful care and genuine compassion shown to Richard.

Funeral services will be held Friday at 12 PM from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc. 20 S. Main St. Plains, with the Rev. Stephen Stavoy officiating.   Interment will follow in St. Mary's Cemetery, Hanover Township.

Family and friends may call Thursday from 5 to 8 pm.   

Memorial donation may be made to the SPCA of Luzerne County 524 E. Main Street Wilkes-Barre, Pa 18702 or to the American Cancer Society 109 Wells Street Forty Fort, Pa 18704.

 

Theodor “Ted” Mueller
February 21, 2011

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Theodor “Ted” Mueller, 65, of Dallas died Monday morning at Mercy hospice, Scranton.

Born in Wilbad, Germany, he was the son of the late Theodor and Julia (Bujak) Mueller.

Ted was a graduate of Plainfield High School, New Jersey, Class of 1965 and was employed as a Manager for American Asphalt, retiring in 2004. He served for 5 ½ years with the U.S. Army, the last 2 years during the Vietnam War as a Warrant Officer piloting a Helicopter. He was honorably discharged in 1971. He was a member of the Dallas American Legion, Post 672 where he served as the President of the Home Association for many years. Ted was an avid hunter and fisherman.

Surviving are his son Mark, Dallas, Sister Maria Chyb and her husband Gene, Phillipsburg, New Jersey, Nieces Erica Milkovitz and Tracey Chyb.

Funeral service will be Thursday at 10 am at the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc. 20 South Main Street, Plains. Interment will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery, Carverton.

Friends may call Wednesday from 4 to 7 pm. Memorial donations may be made to the charity of one’s choice.

 

Anne M. Mattick
February 13, 2011

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Anne M. “Nan” Mattick passed away quietly, early this past Sunday morning, February 13, in Brighton, New York.

Anne was born on December 7, 1928, in Wilkes-Barre, daughter of the late John & Mary (Dougherty) Donohoe.  She attended Holy Saviour Grade School and graduated from James M. Coughlin High School, Wilkes-Barre, Class of 1946. After high school Anne went on to Mercy Hospital School of Nursing and received her R.N. in 1949. Shortly after becoming a nurse, Anne met her husband while caring for his mother, who told Bob, "She's a good one," and they were married August 5, 1950. Anne and Bob spent most of their family life in Buffalo, N.Y. where Bob worked on the railroad and Anne worked part time in between kids as a nurse at both Deaconess and Mercy Hospitals. Anne encouraged her sons in their educational, athletic, and musical pursuits, and insisted that her children finish college. It wasn't always easy, but she was a very determined woman.

 Anne’s family had camped since the boys were young. When her last son finished college she and Bob sold the house in Buffalo and bought a van. They drove around the U.S. for several years visiting children and relatives and seeing the country. They then decided to settle in the Florida Keys during the winter and to return to New York in summer.

 Anne and Bob celebrated their 50th Wedding Anniversary in 2000 and enjoyed a wonderful celebration in Wilkes-Barre with friends and family from all across the country. 

 Anne is survived by her husband of 61 years, Robert Mattick, "Bob," her sons and their families: Robert J. Mattick and wife, Therese, and daughter Kathleen. Rochester, N.Y.,  John A. Mattick and wife, Donna, and their son Nicholas and daughter Sara, Nashville, Tennessee,  Michael J. Mattick and wife, Vicki, and daughters Rose {Peck} and Molly and son Alex. Springfield, Or., William A. Mattick and wife Karen and sons Ben and Dan. Littleton, Co.  Anne is also survived by family in the Wilkes-Barre area: Sally A. Healey, a cousin and a friend; cousins, Margaret Goodsir and Mary Moran. Margaret and Mary spent many close times with Anne and Bob in the Florida Keys. Also, cousin, Mary Ruth Monahan; nephew, Tony Mattick; and niece, Shelia Mattick. Her close friend from nursing school and maid of honor, Eleanor (Norsie) Klein, will miss her dearly.

Funeral will be held Friday at 10:00 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street, Plains, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 am in Holy Saviour Church, East End section of Wilkes-Barre, with Father Michael Kloton, officiating.  Interment will be held in Sacred Heart Cemetery, Plains.

Friends may call Thursday from 4 to 7 pm.

Memorial donations may be made to the Hospice of one’s choice.

 

 

Gisela Klynott
February 6, 2011

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Gisela Klynott, 74 of Exeter, died Sunday morning at her home. 

Born in Berlin, Germany, she was the daughter of the late Karl-Heinz and Ella (Poland) Teichert.

She was employed as a Bindery worker for Offset Paperback, Dallas.

Gisela was very proud of her Naturalized American Citizenship which she attained on April 13, 1973 after five years of study in Maryland.

She was preceded in death by her brother Harri Teichert.

Surviving is her husband of 50 years Patrick Klynott, sons Ralf-Peter Klynott, Eldon, Missouri, and John Fitzgerald Klynott, St. Louis, Missouri, Brothers Manfred and Rolf Teichert, Berlin, Germany.

Private Funeral Services will be held at the convenience of the family.  There will be no calling hours.

Memorial donations may be made to Hospice St. John 1007 Oak Street, Pittston, Pa 18640.

 

Joseph R. Thomas
February 4, 2011

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Joseph R. Thomas, 68 of Haines City, Florida, and formerly of Wilkes-Barre, passed away Friday morning at Good Shepherd Hospice, Auburndale, FLA.

Born in Wilkes-Barre, he was the son of the late Joseph and Julia (Swalik) Thomas.

Joe was a graduate of James M. Coughlin High School, Wilkes-Barre, Class of 1960, and Kings College, Wilkes-Barre, Class of 1965.  He privately tutored students in New York City, Daniel J. Flood Elementary School, Wilkes-Barre, and most recently for students at the First Presbyterian Church, Haines City, Florida.

He was employed for Balester Optical of Wilkes-Barre for 35 years until his retirement.

Surviving are his wife the former Joanne (Dezinski) Marko, Haines City, FLA, and formerly of Plains, Twp., step-sons Stephen, Phillip, and John Marko, aunts Helen Ratkoff, Plains, and Mary Sabrack, Arizona, several cousins.

Funeral services will be held in Florida.  Local funeral services with Rite of Committal will be held this spring in St. Mary’s Byzantine Catholic Church, North end section of Wilkes-Barre.

The family would like to thank everyone for their prayers and good wishes.

 

Robert F. Pisack
January 31, 2011 

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Robert F. Pisack passed to eternity on January 31, 2011 surrounded by his family and friends at the Wilkes-Barre General Hospital due to complications of heart disease.

Bob was born in Wilkes-Barre to the late Joseph and Ann (Joba) Pisack on November 3, 1942.  He was a lifelong resident of Parsons and most recently Miners Mills.

He attended Wilkes-Barre Area schools and was a member of SS. Peter & Paul Church, Plains.

Bob was known in life by everyone as a connoisseur of fine foods, especially the Polish ones, including Haluski and Pierogi.  He ran a chicken breast Hotline and always knew where and when the sales were.

He lived for and loved his buddies: Lucy, Harley, Rudy, Sadie, Sophie, and Ollie.  He enjoyed gardening and cooking special recipes from the internet.  He was employed by Owens Illinois/Techneglass for 37 years until his retirement. 

He is survived by his wife the former Joan Starzynski, R.N., and sons David Joseph and Robert John, sisters Mary Mayo and her husband Raymond, and Barbara Mendola, both of Wilkes-Barre, and brother Joseph Pisack and his wife Lois, Meshoppen, several nieces and nephews.

Funeral will be held Friday at 9:00 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street, Plains, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 9:30 am in SS. Peter & Paul Church, Plains.  Interment will be held in the Parish Cemetery, Plains. 

Friends may call Thursday from 5 to 8 pm.

The family request that flowers be omitted and memorial donations be made to the charity of ones choice.

 

Joseph Burko
January 29, 2011

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Joseph Burko, 90 of the Hudson section of Plains, Twp., died Saturday afternoon at the Dept. of Veteran Affairs Medical Center, Plains, Twp.

Born in Hudson, he was the son of the late John & Clara (Wojtowicz) Burko.

He was a graduate of Plains Memorial High School, and attended Pennsylvania State University attaining a degree in Electrical Engineering.  Joe was a Navy Veteran of World War II, and was employed as a Radar Technician for Tobyhanna Army Depot, retiring in 1985.

He was a member of the former St. Joseph’s Church, Hudson, and currently a member of SS. Peter & Paul Church, Plains. 

He was a devoted caregiver of his recently deceased wife Julie who passed away on January 11 of this year.

He was also preceded in death by his brothers Michael, Anthony, and John Burko, sisters Mary Armillei, Anne Zabatka, Helen Serafin, Olga Burko, Victoria Petrick and his infant brother and sister.

Surviving are his Daughters Barbara Lewis and her husband Eric, Wilkes-Barre, Susan Monseur and her husband Paul, Owego, NY, Karen Kazda and her husband James, Candor, NY, Son Joseph Burko Jr., and his wife Susan, Cicero, NY, Grandchildren Jill Materazzi, James II and Jarrod Kazda, Todd Monseur and Kyle Burko, Great Grandchildren Evan James and Jace John, Brother Walter Burko and his wife Irene, Hudson, sister-in-law Margaret Burko, Fox Hill section of Plains, several nieces & nephews.

 

Lynn A. Venetz
January 27, 2011

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Lynn A. Venetz, 52 of Swoyersville, went to join her Daddy in Heaven on January 27, 2011, at her home surrounded by her family. Lynn always referred to going home to her “Beach House in Heaven.”

Born in Kingston, she was the daughter of Genevieve (Kopetchny) Dotter of Swoyersville, and the late Robert Dotter. Lynn was a graduate of Bishop O’Reilly High School, Kingston, class of 1976, and Luzerne County Community College, earning her degree in Dietary. She was employed as Banquet Manager at Irem Temple Country Club, Dallas, and A Touch of Class at the Palace, the Parsons section of Wilkes-Barre, and last as Retail Manager at Sodexo, Wyoming Valley Health Care Systems, Wilkes-Barre. She was a member of Living Hope Bible Church, Plains.

Surviving in addition to her mother Genevieve are her husband Michael Venetz, Swoyersville, sons PFC Matthew Venetz, Ft. George Meade, Maryland, and Michael Venetz, daughters, Sarah and Roberta Venetz, grandson Parker, and maternal grandmother Anna Kopetchny, all of Swoyersville, aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces & nephews.

Funeral Services for Lynn will be held Monday at 10:00 am at Living Hope Bible Church, 35 South Main Street, Plains, with Rev. Mark DeSilva, Pastor, officiating. Interment will be held in St. Joseph’s Cemetery, West Wyoming.

Friends may call Sunday evening from 5 to 8 pm at the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street, Plains. Memorial donations may be made by calling the American Cancer Society for Lung Cancer at 1-800-227-2345 or donations to Candy’s Place 190 Welles Street Forty Fort, PA 18704 in Lynn’s name.

Julie Burko
January 11, 2011

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Julie Burko, 88, of the Hudson section of Plains Township, died Tuesday morning at Riverstreet Manor, Wilkes-Barre.

Born in Wilkes-Barre, she was the daughter of the late Michael and Sophie (Onisko) Hemenetz.

She was educated in Plains Township Schools and was employed as a Seamstress for Fifi Frocks, Hudson. She was a former member of St. Joseph’s Church, Hudson and currently was a member of SS. Peter & Paul Church, Plains.

A daughter of the Depression, Julie enjoyed life’s simple pleasures. She was preceded in death by her sisters Ann Matcho and her husband Frank, and Mary Hemenetz, Brothers Michael Hemence, George Hemenetz and infant brother Charles Hemenetz.

Surviving is her husband of 63 years Joseph Burko, Daughters Barbara Lewis and her husband Eric, Wilkes-Barre, Susan Monseur and her husband Paul, Owego, NY, Karen Kazda and her husband James, Candor, NY, Son Joseph Burko Jr., and his wife Susan, Cicero, NY, Grandchildren Jill Materazzi, James and Jarrod Kazda, Todd Monseur and Kyle Burko, Great Grandchildren Evan James and Jace John, Sister Helen Salzman and her husband Sheldon, Florida, Brother John Hemenetz, Miners Mills, Sisters-in-law, Arline Hemence, Florida and Marcella Hemenetz, New Jersey, Several Nieces and Nephews.

Funeral will be held Saturday at 9 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc. 20 South Main Street, Plains with a Mass of Christian Burial at 9:30am in SS. Peter & Paul Church, Plains.

Interment will be in St. Joseph’s Cemetery, Hudson.

Friends may call from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday, at the funeral home.

Memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Association , 57 N. Franklin St., Wilkes-Barre, PA 18701.

William P. “Murph” Murphy
January 4, 2011

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William P. “Murph” Murphy, 64 of Plains, Twp., passed away Tuesday evening at the Dept. of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Plains, Twp. surrounded by his family.

Born in Plains, he was the son of the late William P. and Mary (Brennan) Murphy.

He was a graduate of Plains Memorial High School, Class of 1965, and attended College Misericordia, Dallas, earning an Associate in Applied Science in Radiologic Technology Degree.  He was a Navy Veteran of the Vietnam War, serving as a Corpsman.  Bill was employed for the Veterans Affairs Medical Center starting as a Nurse’s Assistant and retired as an X Ray Technician in October of 2000.  He was currently employed for the Mohegan Sun Arena as Guest Services Supervisor. 
Murph was a member of the Plains American Legion, Joseph E. Conlon, Post 558, Past President of the Plains Lions Club and was awarded the Melvin Jones Fellow which is the highest award in Lionism,  North End Slovak Club, Polish American Veterans, Plains.  Bill also volunteered for the Make-A-Wish Foundation, Big Brothers/Big Sisters and was Chairman for the Donegal Society’s Irish Days festival at Coal Street Park.  Bill was a very proud contributor to the WVIA Documentary “Voices from Vietnam” in which he and other Veterans spoke of their experiences in Vietnam and years following their homecoming.  He was a member of SS. Peter & Paul Church, Plains. 

He was preceded in death by his son Timothy Murphy and Sister Ann (Nancy) Czock. 

Surviving are his wife of 39 years the former Margaret (Maggie) Moncavage, his children Susan Price and her husband Kenneth, Plains, Mary Frances Rinehimer and her husband Eric, Kingston, Karen Murphy and her fiancé Daryl Roxby, Plains and Patrick Murphy and his wife Missy, Spanish Fort, Alabama, Grandchildren Jolene Price, Timothy Young, Kenny Price and Cody and Kiersten Rinehimer, Brother Thomas Murphy and his wife Diane, Hanover Twp., Sisters Mary Jackson and her husband Charles, West Wyoming, and Catherine Makuch and her husband Stanley, Wilkes-Barre, Several nephews, nieces, aunts, uncles and cousins. 
Funeral will be held Saturday at 9 am form the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street, Plains with a Mass of Christian Burial at 9:30 am in SS. Peter & Paul Church, Plains.  Interment with full military Honors will be held in Sacred Heart Cemetery, Plains.

Friends may call Friday from 5 to 8 pm.  The Plains Lions Club will meet at 7 pm to pay their respects. 

Memorial donations may be made to Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Luzerne County 33 East Northampton Street, Wilkes-Barre, Pa 18702.