December 2013  
Anthony J. Alapick, Jr. Joseph “Rock” Stahovic
Donald T. Tregaskis Eric Joseph Speicher, Jr.
FRANK BERNARD KUSIAK Patricia Ann Mulligan
Clara T. Yanushefski Peter Segeda, Sr.
Herbert J. Flowers  Leonard D. DeMarco
   
November 2013  
John S. Siudock Peggy L. Dorang
Frances L. “Fran” Day Rose D. Paul
Dorothy T. DeAnthony  
   
October 2013  
Thomas M. Zaboraski Daniel R. Green, Sr.
John A. Moran, Sr. Mary Eileen (Conway) Williams
Marianne E. Lynch Eleanor Connelly
Bernard J. “Bernie” Gryskevicz Anna (Urban) Webb
   
September 2013  
Joseph F. Linker, Jr. Daniel R. Green Jr.
Edythe Ann Krueger Charles P. Trabish
Bernard M. Prevuznak Holly J. Mooney
   
August 2013  
Margaret “Peg” Cunningham Christian Tyler Cook
Anna J. “Angie” Spernoga James E. Saba
Katherine M. Scott Bertha M. Liparula
   
July 2013  
Louise Materazzi
Thomas J. Davis Michael R. McGrady
Anthony “Struzzie” Struzzieri John L. Murray
Vera J. Lisko MICHAEL J. CORCORAN
Paul “Deek” Dessoye Marguerite M. Magdelinskas
   
June 2013  
Alfred J. Gurnari  
Orlando “Londo” Barbacci Thomas G. Shortz, Sr.
Mary S. Rymar Dorothy M. Ashton
Christine “Tina” Baines Andrew Gobla
   
May 2013  
Mary Margaret Satkowski   
Mildred M. Adonizio Veronica T. Ungvarsky
Teresa “Terry” Georgetti Duane J. Herbert
Sister Mary Luke Gibbons Helen T. McNelis
Ann Giovannini Florence C. Kozera
Laurence L. Mc Grady Jean H. Darsky
Dr. D. Keith Ferrell Ruth O'Donnell Woehrle
   
April 2013  
Robert A. Novicenskie  
JEANNE H. CONWAY Bernard L. Frantz
Anna M. Stubbs Joseph A. Greskiewicz
Mary W. Pappas Leon J. Belles
Walter F. Haczewski Jacqueline L. Budzinski
Nicholas G. Rusenko Rita M. Nesler
   
March 2013  
Jean M. Shimshock Barbara M. Kozak
Louis C. O’Brien Michael J. Costanza
Elliot Riccetti Keith B. Maxwell
Patrick J. Dalessandro Thomas E. Kustrin
Marian C. Spagnola Mary Ann Kelly
   
February 2013  
Elizabeth M. Clark  
Kenneth H. Dautrich, Jr. Anne Marie Gurnari
Theresa A. Holub Margaret “Maggie” Murphy
Charles P. Yurgaitis Sadie T. Guerra
Mary (Langan) Sulla Joseph P. Barba
Dolores J. Baldrica Peter E. Dziedzic
Myrtle Lee Raggi Florence J. Yencho
   
January 2013  
Joseph Michael Falchek Lottie Silvi
Catherine M. Kasaba Matthew J. Shimshock, Jr.
Thomas L. Snee, Sr. Robert A. Gregor, Sr.
Levio J. Grilli Mary R. Buckman
   

 

Joseph “Rock” Stahovic
December 30, 2013

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Joseph “Rock” Stahovic, 67 of Bear Creek Twp., passed away Monday morning, December 30, 2013, at his home.

Born in Wilkes-Barre, he was the son of the late Joseph Anthony and Martha (Figler) Stahovic.

Rock was a graduate of James M. Coughlin H.S., Wilkes-Barre, Class of 1964, and was an Army Veteran of the Vietnam War.  Following his Honorable discharge from the Army he was employed as a Heavy Diesel Mechanic and a Generator Technician for Cleveland Brothers for 23 years until his retirement.  He was a member of the Wilkes-Barre Twp., American Legion, Post 815.

Rock was an avid guitar player who loved his Fender guitars and playing music with his friends whenever he could.  He had a true affection for his 1976 Harley Davidson and enjoyed the outdoors, especially hunting and fishing.  He also was active in many dart leagues throughout the Wyoming Valley.  Rock would not miss going to see his grand kids at their sporting events whether it was wrestling, cheerleading, tee ball, soccer, field hockey or football, his grand kids meant the world to him.  He loved spending time with his family vacationing in the Caribbean and Virginia Beach and enjoying a few cold ones with his friends.

He and his wife the former Carol Smacher, would have celebrated their 46th wedding anniversary on January 27, 2014.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister Martha Barrett.

Surviving in addition to his wife Carol, are his daughter Lori Chase and her husband Matthew, Bear Creek Twp., son Rock Stahovic and his wife Robyn, Plains, Twp., grandchildren Ashley and Matthew Chase, and Tait and Teague Stahovic, sisters Andrena Pacholyk and her husband John, Jordan, NY, and Melody Stahovic, Wilkes-Barre, nieces & nephews.

Funeral Services for Rock will be held Friday evening, January 3, 2014, at 7:00 pm at the Plains United Methodist Church, 133 North Main Street  Plains, PA  18705, with Rev. Paul Amara, Pastor, officiating.  Interment will be held at the convenience of the family.

Friends may call Friday evening from 5:00 pm until the time of service at the church.

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

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to The Plains United Methodist Church  133 N. Main Street  Plains, PA  18705 or to Valley With a Heart Benefits  7 Alden Road
Nanticoke, PA  18634 or on the web at www.valleywithaheart.com.

 

Anthony J. Alapick, Jr.
December 24, 2013

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Anthony J. Alapick, Jr., 66 of Luzerne, passed away Christmas Eve at his home.

Born in Luzerne, he was the son of the late Anthony J. and Frances Jean (Polancheck) Alapick, Sr.

Anthony graduated from Luzerne High School, and was an Army Veteran of the Vietnam War.

Surviving is his sister Francine Alapick.

Graveside services will be held Tuesday at 10:00 am  in St. Ignatius Cemetery, Pringle.

 

Eric Joseph Speicher, Jr.
December 23, 2013

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Eric Joseph Speicher, Jr, 14, passed away on Monday Evening, December 23rd, surrounded by his loving family at his home after a valiant 2 1/2 year fight with brain cancer.
    
Eric was born on July 30, 1999 in Plains, to Eric and Jessica (Stella) Speicher. He attended Cookie Corner Pre-School and Wyoming Area School District. He was involved in Wyoming Area Youth Basketball, manager of the Wyoming Area Freshman boy’s basketball team and member of the Wyoming Area Student Council. He was also a West Pittston Little League athlete and a West Pittston Rams B-Team Super Bowl champion. As a member of Corpus Christi Parish, he participated in the Youth Group and was an alter server.
    
We will remember Eric as having the kindest heart and being very gentle and loving. He battled his illness as he did in life with the strength, courage and bravery that few possess. Eric loved being on a baseball field in his catcher's gear, playing street hockey with his friends, going to the Deli and having many adventures in New York City, especially Times Square.
    
Eric was preceded in death by his paternal grandfather, Alfred Speicher, Sr. great-grandparents, great aunts and uncles.
    
He is survived by his parents, Eric and Jessica, Brother Chase, Grandparents Denis and Rosalie Cullagh, Donald and Dorothy Stella and Pat and Anne Cawley, Aunt Jennifer, Uncle Mike, Tyler Marie, Michael, Caden, and Krea Bonita, Aunt Cristina and Uncle Rich Praefke and Uncle AJ, Aunt Deanna, Jacob, and Nicholas Speicher and his furry companions Papi & Rufus.
    
Many heartfelt thanks to our families, friends, extended West Pittston families and all of Eric's many friends who were with him every step of the way. Special gratitude is extended to all of his doctors, nurses, and healthcare workers at the Pediatric Day Hospital at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, especially Dr. Michael LaQuaglia for his friendship, concern and support. Our sincere appreciation to Dr. Ralph DeMario, Marissa, Cindy and staff at Hospice of the Sacred Heart. Monsignor Sempa held our hearts and our hands on every step of Eric's journey. We are forever grateful for his endless kindness.  Eric will forever be remembered in the hearts of his loving parents, brother, grandparents, aunts and uncles, cousins, many friends and especially his best friend and 1st cousin, Mikey.

Family and friends are invited to attend a Memorial Mass for Eric on Friday, December 27, 2013 at 10:00 am in Corpus Christi Parish, Immaculate Conception Church, Luzerne Avenue, West Pittston. There will be no calling hours.
 
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to MSKCC Department of Pediatrics 1275 York Avenue  New York, NY 10065 and St. Jude Children's Research Hospital  262 Danny Thomas Place  Memphis, Tennessee 38105. 

 

Donald T. Tregaskis
December 17, 2013

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Donald T. Tregasis, 89, of Plains Township, died Tuesday evening, December 17, 2013 at the Wilkes-Barre General Hospital.

Born in the Miners Mills section of Wilkes-Barre, he was the son of the late  Charles and Nettie (Atkinson) Tregaskis.

Donald was an Army Veteran of World War II, and was formerly employed for Anthracite Foundry and Machine Co. of Plains whose company constructed the Statue of Jesus Christ that sits atop of King’s College on River Street. Donald was last employed for Muskin Manufacturing until his retirement.

In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his Brother William.
Surviving are his Wife the former Marion Dunsmuir, Plains; Sons, Donald Jr. and wife Tina, Florida; Thomas and Wife Amphawan, Nevada and David and Wife Bernadette, Plains; Grandchildren; Thomas,  Jonathan, Tracey, Tara, Joanne, Billy, Connie and Jackie; Nephews and Nieces.

Funeral services for Donald will be held Saturday at 11 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home Inc. 20 South Main Street Plains, with Rev. Dr. Paul Amara, Pastor of the Plains United Methodist Church, Officiating.

Interment will be held at the convenience of the family in Memorial Shrine Cemetery, Carverton.

Friends may call Friday afternoon form 3 to 5 pm.

 

Patricia Ann Mulligan
December 16, 2013

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Patricia Ann Mulligan, 69 of Silver Spring, Maryland, passed away Tuesday, December 16, 2013 at her home.

Born in Wilkes-Barre, she was the daughter of the late Charles J. and Margaret Mary (Shovlin) Cawley.

Patricia was a graduate of Plains Memorial High School and Wilkes-Barre General Hospital School of Nursing  and was employed as a nurse for Montgomery County, MD.

Surviving are her husband William E. Mulligan, Silver Spring, Md.; son William Michael Mulligan, Silver Spring, Md., and Shannon Lee Mulligan, Olney, Md.; grandchildren Chase Mulligan and Blake Johnson, sister Catherine Moran, Carbondale and brother Neil Cawley, Keyser, West Virginia.

Funeral will be held Saturday at 8:30 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street  Plains, PA  18705 with a Mass of Christian Burial at 9:00 am in SS. Peter & Paul Church, 13 Hudson Road  Wilkes-Barre, PA  18705.  Interment will be held in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Hanover Twp.

Friends may call Friday from 6:00 to 8:00 pm at the funeral home.

Memorial donations may be made to Montgomery Hospice Society, 1355 Piccard Drive, Suite 100, Rockville, MD  20850.

 

FRANK BERNARD KUSIAK
December 13, 2013

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Frank Bernard Kusiak , 91, passed away on Friday, December 13, 2013, in Orlando, Florida, where he had been residing since 2005.  Born on March 5, 1922, in Plains, Pennsylvania, he was the son of the late Frank J. and Josefa (Szweda)  Kusiak.  Frank’s older brother, Joseph, passed away on September 22, 1992. 

Prior to moving to Orlando, Frank was a lifelong resident of Plains Twp., attending SS. Peter and Paul Church School, and graduating from Plains Memorial High School in 1940.  While attending Wilkes-Barre Business College he met Anna Yurkanin who became his wife on September 14, 1946, and who preceded him in death on March 3, 2002. 

Together they raised their six children: Mary Jo Kusiak, with whom he resided in Florida; Frank J. Kusiak(Toni), Orlando; Michael Kusiak(Robbin), Ronan, Montana; Barbara Kusiak Fitzpatrick(Mike), Austin, Texas; Ann Marie Kusiak(Jeff Griffith), Altamonte Springs, Florida;  and Ellen Kusiak Eachus(Todd), Drums, Pennsylvania.  In addition, Frank is survived by grandchildren, Sean Kusiak, Valencia, CA; Katie Fitzpatrick, NY, NY; Michael Fitzpatrick, Los Angeles, CA; Anthony Eachus, Drums, PA; Ben Eachus, San Francisco, CA; Nathan Eachus, Kansas City, MO; Paul Metzger III(Dawn), Mount Joy, PA; Michael Metzger(Diana), Orlando, FL; and great grandchildren, Paul and Adam Metzger; and Kiley Metzger, as well as a large extended family of nieces and nephews, in-laws and exes; he loved us all.

Next to God and family, Frank loved servicing refrigeration equipment most.  Prior to retiring, he was employed for over 20 years by Topps Chewing Gum Co., in Duryea, PA, most recently as the chief refrigeration service engineer. 

A veteran of World War II and the Korean Conflict, Frank served in the U.S. Army, primarily as a dental laboratory tech sergeant, but went to the European front near the end of the war in 1945.

A generous man in all ways, he donated 15 gallons of blood throughout his adult life, with the last one being given in his 85th year.  He encouraged everyone who could to donate blood also. He also worked for many years as a volunteer transporter at the Veterans Hospital under the Retired Seniors Volunteer Program.  Shoveling snow and baking cookies for neighbors and friends were two of Frank’s favorite activities.
A lifelong member of SS. Peter and Paul Church in Plains, PA, Frank was a member of its Holy Name Society and served as president for many terms.  He also was a 41 year participant in the Wyoming Valley Laymen’s Retreat League, following in his father’s footsteps after his father’s death in 1963. He served as its secretary for many years until 2004.

While in Orlando, he was also a member of St. Maximilian Kolbe Catholic Church, a new parish where he attended its very first Mass in 2006.  He was also able to experience Christmas Midnight Mass outdoors under the stars and Easter Mass outdoors at sunrise, for the first time at ages 86 and 87 respectively.
Funeral will be held Wednesday at 9:00 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home Inc., 20 South Main Street  Plains, PA  18705 with a Mass of Christian burial at 9:30 am in SS. Peter and Paul Church, 13 Hudson Rd., Plains, PA.  Interment with Military Honors will be held at Mount Olivet Cemetery, Carverton section of Wyoming.  Friends may call Tuesday from 5 to 8 pm at the funeral home.   

In lieu of flowers, please send a contribution in Frank’s memory to Cornerstone Hospice Foundation, 8009 South Orange Ave., Orlando, FL 32809.

 

Peter Segeda, Sr.
December 11, 2013

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Peter Paul Segeda, Sr., 72 years old, passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday December 11, 2013.

Born April 26, 1941 in Pittston, he was the son of the late Peter & Lena (Augustine) Segeda.  He was a graduate of Jenkins Township High School and served in the U.S. Marine Corps for 6 years.  He was a long time resident of New Jersey where he worked as a master machinist at Bristol-Meyer Squib for 40 years.  He retired to North Mountain in Muncy Valley to his beloved cabin that be built himself.  Peter enjoyed hunting, fishing, and spending time with his family (and his special dogs Monti and Oscar).

Preceding him in death in addition to his parents are his sister Geraldine Lombardo and brother Joseph Segeda.

Surviving are his wife Carole, whom he married in 1988, 8 children, Lee Ann, Kimberly, Peter, Christine, Denise, Phil, Eugene, and Jeffrey, 11 grandchildren, Michael, Jennifer, Melissa, Carl, T.J., Gregory, Steven, Samantha, Logan, Gene, and Sara, and 8 great-grandchildren, sister Judi Soska and her husband Frank, and brother James and his wife Jackie. 

Friends may call Friday, December 13, 2013 from 4:00 to 7:00 pm at the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street  Plains, PA  18705.  Peter requested to be cremated after his viewing and his inurnment to be held at the convenience of his family.

 

 

Clara T. Yanushefski
December 10, 2013

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Clara T. Yanushefski, 90 of the Hilldale Section of Plains, Twp., passed away Tuesday morning, December 10, 2013, at Commonwealth Hospice, St. Luke’s Villa, Wilkes-Barre.

Born in Shenandoah, she was the daughter of the late Joseph & Mary Ann (Melecki) Paruch.

Clara was a graduate of Shenandoah High School, a home maker, and assisted her husband “Major” at Curley’s Bar, Hilldale.

She was a member of SS. Peter & Paul Church, Plains.

She was preceded in death by her husband Matthew “Major” Yanushefski on July 9, 1989, brothers Walter and Joseph Paruch, and sister Dorothy Paruch.

Surviving are her son Matthew Yanushefski, Brooklyn, New York, daughter Denise Dubis and her husband Mark, Lakewood, Ohio, granddaughter Victoria Dubis, brother John Paruch, Shenandoah, and niece Diane Paruch.

Funeral will be held Friday at 9:00 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street Plains, PA  18705, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 9:30 am in SS. Peter & Paul Church, 13 Hudson Road, Plains.  Interment will be held in St. Joseph’s Cemetery, Hudson section of Plains.

Friends may call Friday morning from 8:15 am till the time of service.

Memorial donations may be made to SS. Peter & Paul Church 13 Hudson Road  Plains, PA  18705 or to Commonwealth Hospice  C/O 80 E. Northampton Street  Wilkes-Barre, PA  18701 in Clara’s name.

 

Leonard D. DeMarco
December 7, 2013

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Leonard DeMarco, 72, of Pittston, passed away Saturday, December 7th, 2013 at Wilkes-Barre General Hospital.

Born January 13th, 1941 in the Browntown section of Pittston Township, he was the son of the late Angelo Charles and Mary (Tarullo) DeMarco.

He graduated from Pittston Township High School, Class of  1958 and joined the Army Reserve. After an honorable discharge, Len worked at the Pittston Apparel as a sewing machine mechanic. He also worked in numerous areas such as construction, plumbing, and repairs. Most recently, Len worked as a driver for Wyoming Valley Motors, where he was able to enjoy driving, which he always loved to do.

Len was a longtime member of the Italian American Citizens Club. He also enjoyed spending his free time at the track, watching the horses run.

Preceding him in death is his ex-wife, Judi D’Andrea.

Surviving are his daughter, Cyndi Spagnuolo and her husband, Jack, and sons, Leonard and his wife, Nadine, and Kevin and his wife, Edjane. He is also survived by his grandchildren and loves of his life, Tia Marie, Gabrielle, and Danielle Spagnuolo, Emilee and Mia DeMarco, and Amber and Michael DeMarco. Also surviving is his sister Josephine Nesgoda, and brothers, Charlie DeMarco and his wife, Elaine, and Nick DeMarco and his wife, Mary Lou, along with numerous nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial for Len will be held on Wednesday, December 11th at 10 AM at St. Therese’s Church, Shavertown, with Father James J. Paisley, Pastor, officiating.  Interment will be held at the convenience of the family.  Friends are asked to go directly to church on Wednesday morning.

Friends may call Tuesday evening from 5 to 8 pm at the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street  Plains, PA  18705.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the donor’s choice.

 

 

Herbert J. Flowers      
Died December 1, 2013

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Herbert J. Flowers, 87, of Plains Township, died Sunday afternoon at Golden Living Center - East Mountain, Plains.

Born in Anderson Indiana, he was the son of the late Herbert and Anna May (Lemon) Flowers. He was preceded in death by his Wife of 61 years the former Josephine Sobol on October 7, 2013.

He is survived by his Three Sons.

Funeral will be held at the convenience of the family from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., Plains, PA.

Memorial donations if desired may be made to Blue Chip Farm Animal Refuge, 974 Lockville Road, Dallas, Pa., 18612.

 

Peggy L. Dorang
November 22, 2013

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Peggy L. Dorang, 68, of Hanover Township, died Friday evening, November 22, 2013, at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center at Presbyterian Hospital after a long illness.

Born and educated in Luzerne, she was the daughter of the late Paul Brown and Margaret (Whitson) Brown Zambo and Joseph Zambo.

She was an active member of Firwood Methodist Church having served on its board of trustees.  She volunteered with CEO, at the FM Kirby Center for the Performing Arts and at the John Heinz Institute.  She was a member of the Heather Highlands Red Hats.  She enjoyed traveling and spending time with her family.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister Beverly Reese, brother Daniel Brown and niece Debra Jordan.

She is survived by her loving companion of over 25 years, Silas Blaine of Hunlock Creek, son Joseph III, Wilkes-Barre, son Paul and wife Darlene of Union Dale, PA, daughter Catherine and husband James of West Pittston and son Christopher and wife Yarelis Hernandez of League City, TX. 

She is also survived by her grand children Paul, Jr., Jonelle, Bridget, Joseph IV, Andrew and Matthew Dorang and James, Jr. and Thomas Rose. 

She is further survived by her siblings Paul Brown, Jeanette Lorenzetti, Gail Brown and Joseph Zambo.

The family would like to thank the nursing and respiratory therapy staff at UPMC for their loving and professional care throughout Peggy's 515 days in the hospital following double lung transplant.  The family is especially grateful to Dr. Joylin DeLuna for providing exceptional care and support to both Peggy and her family.

Funeral services will be at 9:00 am Wednesday from Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main St, Plains, PA  18705.  Interment will be held in Memorial Shrine Burial Park, Carverton.  Friends are invited to visit on Tuesday evening from 5:00 to 7:00 pm at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that any donations be made in Peggy's name to Family House, 5001 Baum Blvd, Suite 545, Pittsburgh, PA 15213.

 

John S. Siudock
November 18, 2013

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John S, Siudock, 85, of Plains Township, died Tuesday afternoon at Geisinger Medical Center, Plains.

Born in Plains he was the son of the late John and Catherine Siudock and attended SS. Peter & Paul  and the Plains Township schools.

John was an Army veteran of WWII and was employed and a painter until his retirement. He was a member of SS. Peter & Paul Church Plains and was a life member of the Triangle Club of Miners Mills.

He was preceded in death by his infant son Michael; Brother, Myron Siudock and Sister, Helen Chabala.

Surviving are his Wife of 64 years the former Anna (Seneski) Siudock, Sons, John, Plains and Joseph and his wife Elizabeth, Port Orange, Florida; Daughter, Mary Ann Gibbon and husband, Rodney, Plains, grandchildren, Bernadette Siudock and Jacob and Nicholas Gibbon, brother Stanislav Siudock, Warsaw, Poland, nephews and nieces.

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 the Plymouth Independent Cemetery, West Wyoming.

Friends may call Wednesday from 6 to 8 pm at the funeral home.

 

Dorothy T. DeAnthony
November 5, 2013

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Dorothy T. DeAnthony, 91, of the Hudson section of Plains Township, passed away Tuesday, morning, November 5, 2013 at St. Luke’s Villa Wilkes-Barre.

Born in Plains, she was the daughter of the late Otto and Elizabeth (Mattick) Binker.

Dorothy attended Sacred Heart School in Plains and was employed as Housekeeping Manager of the Host Motel for many years and was a waitress at the Victory Pig in Wyoming for over 50 years, until her retirement.

She was a member of SS.Peter and Paul Church, Plains, The Ladies of Charity, a former member of Sacred Heart Church and its Choir, and the Traveler Bowling Club.

She was preceded in death by her husband Victor DeAnthony on July 17, 1975; brothers Joseph and Francis Binker and sisters, Elizabeth “Betty” Catani and Infant sister Mary Binker.

Surviving are her son, Victor DeAnthony and his wife Marlene, Plains; daughter Dorothy Jean Evans and her husband Daniel, Arnor, N.C.; 5 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great granddaughter; sisters Julia Beretta, Montrose, and Mary Drew, Hudson, brothers, Otto Binker, New Cumberland, Pa., Paul and John Binker, Hudson; numerous nephews and nieces.

Funeral will be held Friday at 9:00 am form 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 Sacred Heart Cemetery, Plains.

Friends may call Thursday evening from 5 to 8 pm at the Funeral home.

 

Rose D. Paul
November 5, 2013

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Rose D. Paul, 92, formerly of the Hudson section of Plains Twp., passed away Tuesday morning at her home with her family at her side.

Born in Plains she was the daughter of the late John and Mary (Wassil) Pollock.
Rose attended Plains Township schools and was a homemaker all her life. She was a member of Sacred Heart Slovak Church, Wilkes-Barre. Rose’s children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were the light of her life.

She was preceded in death by her husband Louis Paul on June 24, 2001 and Brothers George Pollack and infant brother Jack Pollack.

Surviving are her daughters; Pat Stella and husband Carl, West Pittston; Karen Derolf and husband Barry, Trucksville; Grandchildren; Nicole Fasulka and husband Chris; Brian Derolf and wife Amanda, Corrin Fisher and husband Duane; Great-grandchildren; Hailey and Hunter Derolf and Reece and Aubrey Fisher, brothers Bob Pollock, Florida, and Al Pollock, New Jersey.

The Paul family would like to Thank Hospice of the Sacred Heart and Dr. Robert Engel for all of the excellent care and comfort they have given to Rose and all the family.
In accordance with Rose’s wishes, her funeral services will be private and 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.

Memorial donations may be made to Hospice of the Sacred Heart  600 Baltimore Drive  Wilkes-Barre, PA  18702 in Rose’s memory.

 

 

Frances L. “Fran” Day
November 1, 2013

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Frances L. “Fran” Day, 68 of Wilkes-Barre, passed away Friday evening, November 1, 2013, at her home.

Born in Newark, New Jersey, she was the daughter of Albert Lescavage of North Arlington, N.J., and the late Celia (Budzeika) Lescavage.

Fran was a graduate of Edwardsville H.S., and was employed as a security Guard at Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center, Plains, Twp., for 25 years until her retirement.

Fran was a member of the American Legion Auxiliary, Post 558, Plains, The Fraternal Order of Police, and was an Ordained Minister of the Universal Life Church.

She was preceded in death by her mother Celia (Budzeika) Lescavage.

Surviving in addition to her father Albert are her aunts and uncles, friend Barbara Shane, Taylor, Mark and Joanne, with whom she had coffee with daily, and numerous friends.

Funeral Services for Fran will be held Friday at 7:00 pm at the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street  Plains, PA  18705, with Rev. Mark Desilva, Pastor of the Living Hope Bible Church, Plains, officiating.  Interment will be held at the convenience of the family.

Friends may call Friday evening from 5 to 7 pm at the funeral home.

Memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society, 712 S. Keyser Avenue, Taylor, PA 18517   

 

Daniel R. Green, Sr.
October 24, 2013

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Daniel R. Green, Sr., 73 of Wilkes-Barre, passed away Thursday morning October 24, 2013, at Geisinger Wyoming Valley, Plains, Twp.

Born in Wilkes-Barre, he was the son of the late Daniel & Margaret (Knorr) Green.

Danny attended St. Nicholas School, Wilkes-Barre and was employed as a roofer, by Consolidated Cigar, Pittston, as a maintenance man for Bishop Hoban High School, and as a security guard at Pocono Downs, Plains, Twp.

He was a member of the Donegal Society of Wilkes-Bare, The P.A.V and the Hudson Servicemen’s Club, both of Hudson, The L.A.N.I V.F.W, Irishtown, V.J.’s Hideaway’s Dart & Pool League, Plains, was an active member in Miners Mills Little League Baseball, a former member of the Plains Lion Club, was active at the Blessed Sacrament Church and Bishop Hoban High School Bazaars. 

He was preceded in death by his wife the former Margaret Rose “Cookie” Coffay on April 12, 1999, son Daniel R. Green, Jr., on September 27, 2013, sister Margaret Bolton, and brother Thomas Green.

Surviving are his daughters Catherine (Kelly Green) Belch and her husband, 1st Lieutenant Daniel C. Belch, USAF (Ret.), Noreen Green and her husband Bill Reiser, all of Wilkes-Barre, Theresa Young and her husband Brian and Maureen Dessoye, all of Plains, son William Berkowitz, Sr., Wilkes-Barre,  grandchildren William, Edward, and Jonathan Berkowitz, Rebecca Belch, Clint Thompson, Jr., Patrick, Thomas, Dylan, Danielle, and Daniel Green, III, and Tiffany Young, brother Robert Knorr and his wife Betty, Kingston, sister Mary Rinehimer and her husband Lonnie Wapwallopen, nieces and nephews.

Funeral will be held Monday at 9:30 am at the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street  Plains, PA 18705, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 am in St. Benedict’s Parish, St. Dominic’s Church, 155 Austin Avenue  Wilkes-Barre, PA  18705.  Interment will be held in St. Nicholas Cemetery, Shavertown, at the convenience of the family.

Friends may call Sunday from 4 to 7 pm at the funeral home.

 

 

Thomas M. Zaboraski
October 13, 2013

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Thomas M. Zaboraski, 66 of Dallas, passed away October 13, 2013, at his home.

Born in Wilkes-Barre, he was the son of the late Frank and Mary Zaboraski, brother of the late Frank Zaboraski, and the foster son of the late Carl & Lydia German.

He was a Marine Corps Veteran of the Vietnam War.  Surviving is his niece Erma Zaboraski.

Graveside services were held in St. Nicholas Cemetery, Shavertown.  Arrangements by the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street, Plains, PA.

 

Mary Eileen (Conway) Williams
October 20, 2013

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Mary Eileen (Conway) Williams, 78 of Plains Twp., passed away Sunday October 20, 2013 at the Wilkes-Bare General Hospital.

Born in Taylor, she was the daughter of the late James & Alice (Corcoran) Conway.

Mary Eileen was a graduate of Elmer L. Meyers High School and worked as the bookkeeper at the Hollywood Shop in Wilkes-Barre.

In 1960 she married her beloved husband, Donald Williams and moved to Philadelphia.
She was a member of St. John the Baptist Church and served as a Eucharist Minister for many years.  She was very active in her church and community activities.  Mary Eileen was an avid gardener and loved to have lots of flowers surrounding her.

She moved back to Plains where she spent much of her childhood after the death of her husband.  Mary Eileen was a wonderful wife, daughter, sister, aunt, and friend to all who knew her.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband Donald Williams on February 3, 2000, brother William Conway, sister Alice (Conway) Morrow, and infant brothers John and Patrick Conway.

Surviving are her brothers and sisters James Conway, Bridget Komnath, John Conway, Joseph Conway, Thomas Conway, Patrick Conway, Judy Paralis, Irene Kelly, and Michael Conway, numerous nieces and nephews.

Funeral will be held Thursday at 9:00 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, 20 South Main Street Plains, PA  18705, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 9:30 am in SS. Peter & Paul Church, 13 Hudson Road, Plains, PA.  Interment will be held in Sacred Heart Cemetery, Plains. 

Friends may call Wednesday from 5 to 8 pm at the funeral home.

 

 

John A. Moran, Sr.
October 20, 2013

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John A. Moran, Sr. “Red”, a life resident of Miners Mills went to rest with his beloved wife, AnnJuan this past Sunday, October 20, 2013.  John was born July 11, 1925 in Miners Mills, son of the late James A. and Beatrice (Manley) Moran.
    
John was a graduate of James M. Coughlin High School and was a veteran of World War II serving in the U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Marines for 4 years from which he earned the Merchant Marine Emblem Pacific War Zone Bar, Emblem, Honorable Service, Victory Medal, Presidential Testimonial Letter and was the Atlantic Coast All Service Middle Weight Boxing Champion.  Afterwards, he graduated from Penn State University with a degree in Machine Production & Tool Design and went on to earn his Master’s Degree in teaching from Temple University.

John worked the family business, Moran & Flynn Ornamental Iron until it closed in 1966 and then became a Sheet Metal & Welding teacher at West Side Vocational School for 25 years.

One of John’s proudest accomplishments was being founder of “Free Movies for Children” for the Miners Mills Civic League.  John was mini football coach for Miners Mills/Parsons Giants, assistant football coach at West-Side Vocational, member Coughlin Booster Club, Marine Corp. League in Miners Mills, American Legion Post 837 and President of the Resident Committee at Highland Manor.  John was also a member of St. Benedict’s Church, in Parsons.                                     

John was preceded in death by his wife, AnnJuan (Morgans) Moran, granddaughter Kimberly Evanko, grandson John Heddings, brothers James and Joseph, sisters Beatrice Tanski and Marie Moran.  He was survived by his son, John A. Moran, Jr. and wife, Lisa of Plains; and daughters Bridget Kondratick and Ellen Evanko both of Miners Mills, Wilkes-Barre.  Known as “Pop-Pop” to his grandchildren, Charlie, John, and Heath Heddings; Frances, Damian, and Theodore James “T.J.” Evanko; John III, Brian, Patrick, and Kaitlyn Moran; great-grandchildren, Keryn, Emily, Rachael, Corey, Jeremy, Zachary, Charlie and Liam.  John also leaves behind a brother, Joseph Moran and a sister, Marie Moran; along with many wonderful nieces and nephews.

The family would like to thank Highland Manor and their wonderful staff of nurses and aides not only for the wonderful care and compassion they showed our father but also our mother in her time of need.

Funeral will be held Wednesday at 9:30 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street  Plains, PA  18705, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 am in St. Benedict’s Parish, St. Dominic’s Church  155 Austin Avenue  Wilkes-Barre, PA  18705.  Interment will be held in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Hanover Twp.

Friends may call Tuesday from 5 to 8 pm at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Highland Manor Activity Fund 750 Schooley Avenue  Exeter, PA  18643 or Boy Scout Pack 100, 13 Stocker Street  Plains, PA  18705.

 

Eleanor Connelly
October 14, 2013

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Eleanor Connelly, 79, of Kingston died Monday morning, October 14, at Wilkes-Barre General Hospital.

She was born in Plains on Nov. 21, 1933, the daughter of the late James and Delia (Gildea) McGrady. She married John Connelly, who preceded Eleanor in death on July 17, 2012, on Oct. 10, 1959 at Sacred Heart Church in Plains.

Eleanor enjoyed going to the casinos, shopping, dining out and vacationing. Christmas was her favorite holiday and she made it special for her entire family. She truly enjoyed spending time with her children and especially her 14 grandchildren. She didn’t care for sports, but would be seen in the stands of athletic events to see her grandchildren participate. She also enjoyed school concerts.

She was a member of St. Ignatius Church in Kingston.

In addition to her parents and husband, Eleanor was preceded in death by her son, Brian and  brothers Paul and Joseph.

Surviving are daughters, Judy, Kingston; Maureen Shandra and her husband, Scott, Pittston Twp.; Jacqueline McNulty and her husband, Bill, Kingston; sons, Michael, Kingston; and Patrick and his wife, Melissa, Tannersville; grandchildren, Matthew Connelly; Brian, Collin, Kelley and Devin Shandra; Tyler McNulty; Rowan, Aidan and Jack Connelly; Brendan, Padraig, Siobhan, Cormac and Sean Connelly; sisters Marjorie Gallagher, Willingboro, N.J.; many nieces and nephews and her loyal dog, Thunder.

Funeral will be held Thursday at 9 a.m. from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc. 20 South Main Street, Plains, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 9:30 a.m. in St. Ignatius Loyola Parish , Kingston.  Interment will be in Sacred Heart Cemetery, Plains. 
Friends may call Wednesday from 5 to 8 pm. 

 

 

Marianne E. Lynch
October 8, 2013

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Marianne E. Lynch, 59, of Plains Township, passed away Tuesday afternoon, October 8, 2013, at the Wilkes-Barre General Hospital with her family by her side.
Born in Plains, she was the daughter of the late Thaddeus and Margaret (Rehoski) Dziedzic.

Marianne was a graduate of Plains Memorial High School, Class of 1972, and was a homemaker all her life. She was a very devoted Mother and Wife and had a great love for all animals. She was a member of SS.Peter & Paul Church, Plains.

Surviving are her Husband John of 38 years, daughter Anne Lynch, Wyoming; Sons; James Lynch and fiancée Amanda Petroski, Plains and Sean Lynch and wife Kerri, Pittstown Township; Brother, Mark Dziedzic and Wife Mary Ellen, Wyoming; Sisters, Karen Stavish and Husband Ron, Plains; Jane and Dianne Dziedzic, Wyoming; Nephews Ron Stavish and Thaddeus Dziedzic.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Friday at 9:30 am in SS. Peter & Paul Church 13 Hudson Road  Plains, PA.  Family and friends are asked to go directly to church Friday morning.  Interment will be held at the convenience of the family.
Friends may call Thursday evening from 6 to 8 pm at the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc.,  20 South Main Street  Plains, PA  18705.

Memorial donations if desired may be made to the SPCA of Luzerne County, 524 E. Mains Street, Wilkes-Barre, Pa. 18702.

 

 

Anna (Urban) Webb
October 4, 2013

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Anna (Urban) Webb 75, of Duryea died Friday afternoon, October 4, 2013, at Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center, Plains Twp.

Born in Wilkes-Barre, she was the daughter of the late Leo and Isabell Rhodes Cook.

Anna  was formerly employed for Luzerne County Head Start  as a Bus Driver and for Wilkes-Barre Area School  District until her retirement.

She was preceded in death by her first husband Leonard Urban Sr. in 1982; Sons, Edward and Robert Urban; Sister, Mary Lou Butry and Brother Anthony Cook.

Surviving are her husband Leroy Webb Sr., Duryea; Children Leonard Urban Jr. and his wife Kathy, Plains; Elizabeth Falandys and her husband Mark, Wilkes-Barre; Michele Bieble and her husband John, Plymouth; Stephen Urban and his wife Jennifer, Plains; Linda Jones and her husband Patrick, Mountaintop; Lisa Thomas and her husband Benjamin, Wilkes-Barre Twp.; Anita Ruggere and her husband Shane, Wilkes-Barre Twp.; Stepsons, Leroy Webb Jr., Duryea; Kenny Webb and his wife Toni, Avoca; Brothers, Robert Cook, Virginia; William Cook, Pittston; Patrick Cook, Jenkins Twp.; Ronald Cook, Wilkes-Barre; Sisters Patricia Benn, Wilkes-Barre and Susan Eaton, Conn.; 22 Grandchildren; 31 Great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Tuesday at 9:30 am in S’S Peter  and Paul’s Church Hudson Road Plains.  Anyone attending the funeral Mass should go directly to the Church.  Interment will be held in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Hanover Twp.

Friends may call Monday evening from 5 – 8 PM at Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main St. Plains, PA  18705.

Memorial donations, if desired, may be made to Candy’s Place 190 Welles St. Forty Fort, PA 18704 or to the SPCA Of Luzerne County, 524 E. Main Street, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702.

 

 

Bernard J. “Bernie” Gryskevicz
October 2, 2013

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Bernard J. Gryskevicz, 75, went home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, October 2, 2013.  His wife, Pat, was at his bedside.

Bernard was the son of the late Edward S. Gryskevicz and Mary Ann Vasell Gryskevicz of Plymouth, PA, and later Chase Road.  He was educated in Plymouth schools and graduated from Lake Lehman High School.

Following graduation, he perused employment in the automotive upholstering field.  He and his brother, Edward, were owners of Two Brother’s Auto Seat Covers in Old Forge, PA.  He later worked at the VA Medical Center for 17 years, from where he retired.

Bernie, as he was known by his family and many friends, was one of the original founders of the Bear Creek/Buck Twp. Girls Softball League.  He was a member of St. Christopher’s Church, prior to its closing and ran the summer Bazaars each year.  Bernie married Patricia A. Flynn in 1958 and together they raised four children.

Bernie was an avid sportsman.  His favorite sports were hunting and fishing.  He also enjoyed football and baseball and the many trips to New York and Maryland to see the Yankees (His favorite team) and the Orioles.  His favorite football team was the Fighting Irish of Notre Dame and Penn State.  He also enjoyed his trips to Canada with his boat and his family and friends.  He was preceded in death by his brother Edward Gryskevicz.

He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Patricia A. (Flynn) Gryskevicz, sons Bernard M. Gryskevicz and his children Anthony, Michael and Lauren of Nanticoke, David M. Gryskevicz and his 2 daughters Amanda and Sarah of Wilkes- Barre, Mark S. Gryskevicz and his wife Tammie and their children, Mark and Joel of Binghamton, NY, and daughter Sandra J. (Gryskevicz) Frey and her husband Patrick, Glen Burnie, Maryland,  3 great-grandchildren, sisters Bernadine Kropp, Middletown, PA, and Eleanor Panagakos, Dallas, numerous nieces and nephews.

The family would like to thank Commonwealth Home Health and Hospice who provided tender, loving care during Bernie’s final days, especially Denise and Barb.

Funeral Services for Bernie will be held Saturday, October 5, 2013 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 St. Andre Bessette Parish, St. Stanislaus Kostka Church, North Main Street Wilkes-Barre.  Interment will be held in the family plot.  Friends may Friday evening from 5 to 8 pm at the funeral home.

Memorial donations may be made to Commonwealth Home Health and Hospice  900 Rutter Avenue, Suite 8,  Forty Fort, PA  18704.

 

 

Daniel R. Green Jr.

Died September 27, 2013

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Daniel R. Green Jr., 40, of Nanticoke, died Friday afternoon at his home.
Born in Wilkes-Barre, he was the son of Daniel R. Green Sr. and the late Margret R. Coffay (Cookie) Green.

Daniel attended GAR high school and was formerly employed for Pocono Downs, Plains; Wilkes-Barre City sanitation department and last for Penguin Putman Publishing of Wilkes-Barre, as a Foreman/ Supervisor.

Danny was an avid Philadelphia Phillies and Eagles Football fan, and an avid bowler, but what was most important in his life was his Children.

Preceding him in death in addition to his mother are Paternal Grandparents; Daniel and Margaret Knorr Green and Maternal Grandparents, William and Catherine Hoffman Coffay.

Surviving in a ddition to his Father, Daniel are his children  Daniel R. III, Danielle L. and Dylan J. Green all at home; Sisters; Kelly Belch and Husband Daniel of Wilkes-Barre, Noreen Thompson, Wilkes-Barre and Theresa Young and Husband Brian, Plains; Nephews and Nieces, and Former wife Sharon Turner.

Funeral will be held Tuesday 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. Dominic’s Church, Parsons. Friends may call Monday from 5 to 8 pm. Interment will be in St. Nicholas Cemetery, Shavertown.

Donations if desired may be mad to Daniel’s family to aid in funeral expenses.

 

Joseph F. Linker, Jr.
Died September 13, 2013

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Joseph F. Linker, Jr., 48 of Upper Darby and formerly of Wilkes-Barre, passed away Friday, September 13, 2013, at Chapel Manor, Philadelphia, after a five year battle with a brain tumor.

Born in Wilkes-Barre, he was the son of Joseph F. Linker, Sr. of Kingston, and Carol (Krapcha) Caffrey and Tom Caffrey of Plains Twp.

Joe was a graduate of Overbrook School for the Blind, Philadelphia, and was a member of St. Anne’s Church, Philadelphia.

Surviving in addition to his parents are his daughter Amanda Linker, Connellsville, PA, fiancee’ Jennifer Cressman and her parents Ron and Terry Cressman, Philadelphia, brother Donald Linker and his wife Cory, Wilkes-Barre, Nephew D.J., and Niece Kristin Linker, his two cats, Baby and Benita, aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Funeral will be held Thursday at 9:00 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street  Plains, PA  18705, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 9:30 am in SS. Peter & Paul Church, 13 Hudson Road, Plains, PA  18705, with Father John Albosta, officiating.  Interment will be held in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Hanover Twp.

Friends may call Wednesday from 6 to 8 pm at the funeral home.

 

Charles P. Trabish
September 14, 2013

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Charles P. Trabish, 88 of the Miners Mills section of Wilkes-Barre, passed away Saturday morning, September 14, 2013, at ManorCare Nursing Home, Kingston.

Born in Miners Mills, he was the son of the late Metro & Dorothy (Kaczur) Trabish.

Charlie was a graduate of James M. Coughlin High School, Wilkes-Barre, and was a Marine Corps Veteran of World War II, serving in the Pacific Theatre.  After his discharge in 1946, he was employed as a coal miner in the local mines and later as a laborer for Inter Metro of Wilkes-Barre, until his retirement.

He was a member of the Plains American Legion, Joseph E. Conlon, Post 558 and the Triangle Club of Miners Mills.

He was preceded in death by his sisters Irene Gemski, Ann Tokach, Mary Hoar, Pearl Wassil, and Helen Kavinski.

Surviving are his sisters Emily Pittarelli, Reading, and Terry Boyle, Keniworth, New Jersey, nephews and nieces.

The Family would like to thank the nurses and the staff of ManorCare for their wonderful care of Charlie.

Funeral Services for Charlie will be held Monday evening at 8:00 pm at the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street  Plains, PA  18705, followed by Military Honors by the Plains American Legion Honor Guard.  Interment will be held at the convenience of the family.

Friends may call Monday evening from 6:00 to 8:00 pm at the funeral home.

 

Edythe Ann Krueger
September 10, 2013

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Edythe Ann Krueger, 75 of Laurel Run, passed away Tuesday morning, September 10, 2013, at her home with her family by her side after a valiant four year courageous battle with cancer. 

Born in Neptune, New Jersey, she was the daughter of the late Richard & Emily (Feurhelm) Poppele. 

Edythe was a graduate of Irvington New Jersey High School and was a homemaker all of her life.

Edythe was totally devoted to her family, especially her husband and best friend, Fred, with whom she traveled extensively.  She took great pride in all her children’s and grandchildren’s accomplishments and surrounded herself in pictures and mementos of the people and places that were most important.

She loved to cook, craft, and sew.  All family babies were blessed with a special handmade blanket or stuffed animal made with love.  Her grandchildren have been blessed to have many special memories from Grandma.

Visitors to her home were always treated to delicious meals.  Edythe spent many hours perfecting recipes, but was most famous for her brownies.  She was affectionately dubbed “The Brownie Queen.”  She never failed to make them for family parties and sent them off to college with her grandchildren or take them to Doctor’s appointments as gratitude for the wonderful care she received. 

Edythe’s courage throughout her illness was her families’ strength.  She was always a role model, her quiet, loving devotion to her husband, children, and grandchildren have been as inspiration to the family.

Surviving are her husband of 53 years, Fred, daughter Gretchen Himlin, Kingston, son Garett Krueger and his wife Marge, Plains, grandchildren Matthew, Samantha, Alex, and Cory Himlin, Kara and Kyle Krueger, brother Richard Poppele, Minneapolis, MN, and sister Judy Rudas, Marco Island, FLA

A Memorial Service for Edythe will be held Saturday, September 21, 2013, at 10:00 am in Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, South Main Street Wilkes-Barre.  Presiding will be Rev. Peter Kuritz and Rev. Janell Wigen.  Interment 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. 

Memorial donations may be made to Good Shepherd Lutheran Church 190 South Main Street  Wilkes-Barre, PA  1870 in Edythe’s memory.

 

Holly J. Mooney
 September 7, 2013

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Holly J. Mooney, 35, of Dallas, died Saturday morning at her home with her Family by her side.

Born in Wilkes-Barre, she was the daughter of Paul Zukoski and Karen Sitar Urzen.

Holly was a graduate of Wyoming Valley West High School, and a graduate of Wilkes-Barre Vocational School of Nursing, receiving her degree as a License Practical Nurse. Before moving back to Dallas she was a nurse with Ascera Care Hospice of Harrisburg.

Holly was a member of Saint Theresa’s Church, Shavertown.

Surviving are her Husband of 10 years Michael and Son Ethan Mooney of Dallas; Father Paul Zukoski and Step-Mother Mary Ann Zukoski of Olympia, Washington; Mother Karen Urzen and Step-Father Albert Urzen; Brother, Ryan Urzen, Swoyersville and Sister, Annie Zukoski, Salt Lake City, Utah; Paternal Grandmother, Patricia Zukoski, Askam; Maternal Grandmother, Cecil Sitar, Ashley; Mother and Father In Law Linda and Robert Nickerson, Plains.

Funeral will be held Wednesday at 9:15 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home Inc., 20 South Main Street, Plains, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 am in St. Theresa’s Church, Shavertown. Interment will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Hanover Township.

Friends may call Tuesday from 5 to 8 pm at the funeral home.

Memorial donations if desired may be made to Candy’s Place 190 Welles Street, Forty Fort, PA  18704.

 

 

Bernard M. Prevuznak
September 4, 2013

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Bernard M. Prevuznak, 82, of the Parsons Section of Wilkes Barre passed at away his home (his favorite place to be) surrounded by his loving family and close friends. He left us, his loving family, to finally embrace his Lord and God on Sept 4, 2013.

He was born and raised in the North End Section of Wilkes-Barre, and was the proud son of Slovak coalminers, the late Stephen and Agnes Prevuznak. He attended Sacred Heart elementary school, St. Nicks High School, and went on to achieve a Bachelor of Arts Degree in education from Kings College. He proudly entered the Military at age 17 and began a career that lasted 5 years, 11 months, and 23 days…(as he told us often)and was a Disabled American Veteran. He also achieved “Soldier of the Year award” during his time in the service of his country. His professional career was spent educating and helping God’s underprivileged and special need children. He spent years working at the Kis-lyn Juvenile Center and the White Haven Forestry Center. His public school career began at GAR Memorial High School where he served as a special education teacher, and then went on to teach at both James M. Coughlin High School and Plains Memorial Junior High School. He retired from the Wilkes-Barre Area School District after 35 years of service in 1992. He accommodated the needs of many students during teaching tenure, asked for little in return, with his only reward being the sure pleasure of helping a special needs child
    
He married his dearly beloved wife and best friend Lorraine L. Lavix on September 7, 1957 and would have celebrated 56 years of blissful married life together as of this Saturday. Besides his devoted wife he is survived by his two sons Bernard Stephen Prevuznak and his wife Sandra, Plains, Michael Joseph Prevuznak and his wife Lisa, Wilkes-Barre, Grandchildren Brandon, Mathew, and Rachael, Great Grandchildren Kaden and Evan; brother Stephen Prevuznak, Wilkes-Barre, Sisters Monica Winchillia,  Wilkes-Barre, and Jeanne Polacheck and her husband Thomas, Exeter and numerous nephews, nieces, great nephews, and great nieces who will miss their “Uncle Ben” greatly.
   
 “Pop”, “The Legend” “The Professor” had a lifelong love of reading and learning and tried to instill that into his students. His favorite reads were the Holy Bible, the writings of St. Thomas Aquinas, and whatever newspapers he could get his hands on. He loved playing and watching the lottery and knew every number for the last 40 years. He was an avid sports fan (He loved those Phillies) and loved watching athletic competition on television along with Jeopardy and Wheel of Fortune. He smiled often and never gave up on people or children specifically with special needs. His positive attitude even during the course of his illness never waivered. He never worried about much in this life and counted his blessings.

He was very devoted to his Catholic faith and prayed the Rosary daily with his wife. He was member of the North End Slovak Club, the Triangle Club, the Polish American Veterans Association, and The American Legion. He was a member of Scared Heart Parrish in North End until its closing but found a home at St. Benedict’s parish in Parsons.
    
Our family extends their undying gratitude to his doctor’s Dr.Desai, Dr. Greenwald, and Dr. Andrews during the course of his illness. Additional thanks to the 5th floor Cancer unit at General hospital and Erwine’s Home Health and Hospice services.
    
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Friday, September 6, 2013 at 10:00 in St. Benedict’s Parish, St. Dominic’s Church  155 Austin Avenue  Wilkes-Barre, PA.  Private interment will follow in Scared Heart Slovak Cemetery, Dorchester Drive, Dallas.

There will be no calling hours and friends are invited to go directly to church Friday morning.

Memorial donations may be made to the Lay Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary  C/O  Ann Johns  374 Monument Avenue  West Wyoming, PA 18644 or to the National Center For Padre Pio  111 Barto Road  Barto, PA  19504-8730.

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

 

 

Christian Tyler Cook
Died August 29, 2013

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Christian Tyler Cook, 30 of Wilkes-Bare, passed away unexpectedly Thursday, August 29, 2013 at home.

Born August 26, 1983 in Wilkes-Barre, he was the son of the late William and Karen (Boyle) Cook.  Christian attended James M. Coughlin H.S. where he was a member of the football team.

He was an avid Philadelphia Eagles fan, and enjoyed spending time with his pets, nieces McKayla and Callie Cook, and his brothers.

Surviving are his brothers William and Brandon Cook, maternal grandparents Hugh and Florence Boyle, Paternal grandmother Mary Cook, Nieces McKayla and Callie, numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.

A Memorial Services celebrating Christian’s life will be held at a later date.  Arrangements by the Corcoran Funeral Home, Plains, PA. 

 

Margaret “Peg” Cunningham
Died August 30, 2013

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Margaret “Peg” Cunningham, beloved mother and grandmother, passed away Friday evening, August 30, 2013 at the inpatient unit of Hospice Community Care, Geisinger South, Wilkes-Barre.

Born January 18, 1924 in the Miners Mills section of Wilkes-Barre, she was the daughter of the late Reese and Alveretta (Scanlon) Williams.

Peg was a graduate of James M. Coughlin H.S., Wilkes-Barre, Class of 1942, and was a homemaker all of her life.  She resided in Miners Mills for most of her life where she was a lifelong member of Blessed Sacrament Church until its merger.  Currently she is a member of St. Benedict’s Parish, Parsons Section of Wilkes-Barre.

She was preceded in death by her husband John F. Cunningham on July 3, 2003, and her daughter Joan Cunningham on March 4, 1963.

Surviving are her daughter Linda Chrzanowski, Plains, Twp., granddaughters Kimberly Belles, and Tracy Ornoski, great-granddaughters Katie and Emily Dickson, great-grandson Gavin Regan, brother James Williams, sisters-in-law Kathleen McDermott and Joan Cunningham, all of Wilkes-Barre, several nieces and nephews.

Funeral will be held Wednesday at 9:30 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street  Plains, PA  18705, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 am in St. Benedict’s Parish, St. Dominic’s Church 155 Austin Avenue, Wilkes-Barre, with her nephew Rev. Thomas M., Muldowney, V.G., officiating.  Interment will be held in St. Mary’s Cemetery.

Friends may call Tuesday from 4:00 to 7:00 pm at the funeral home.

 

James E. Saba
Died August 18, 2013

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James E. Saba, 84 of Kingston, died peacefully Sunday Morning, August 18, 2013 at Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center, Plains, Twp., after a short illness.

Born in Wilkes-Barre, he was the son of the late Simon and Emily (Sappe) Saba.

Mr. Saba, along with his parents, founded Sanitary Wiping Cloth and Sanitary Industrial Laundry, the largest wiping cloth business in the country.  They supplied business across the country as well as the United States Armed Services with wiping cloths during World War II, Korea and the Vietnam Wars.  Later he and his parents started S & J Enterprises and Meyer/Saba Metal Company, one of the larger scrap metal recyclers in Pennsylvania.

Mr. Saba was a lifelong Member of St Mary's Syrian Orthodox Church in Wilkes-Barre .  Ordained as Sub-deacon in 1959, he served under Father Hebert Nahas for 30 years and was instrumental in the building of the new church on South Main Street.  He was a Shriner and a Mason, and an avid golfer, having helped to grow The Irem Temple Country Clubs Golf Course through many years. He was a pilot and enjoyed flying his own plane for pleasure for many years.

Mr. Saba was a family man, raising 4 sons on Butler Street in Kingston with his late wife the former Rosemary Corcoran. He leaves behind sons Simon Saba and his wife Merry of Sparta NJ, James M. Saba and his fiancée Theresa McGrane, Harvey's Lake, Christopher E. Saba, Swoyersville, and Francis Saba and his husband Victor Rivera, of  Philadelphia and Dallas PA,. Seven grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren, Wife the former Esther Hannon, Sister Kathleen Line, Wilkes Barre, and many nieces and nephews.

Preceding him in death in addition to his wife are his sister Shirley Xanthopoulos of Lewistown.

Private Entombment was held at the convenience of the family in St. Mary Antiochian Orthodox Cemetery, Hanover Twp., PA. 

Contributions may be made to the Shriner Hospitals for Children, Office of Development, 2900 Rocky Point Drive, Tampa Florida 33607 In the memory of James E. Saba.
A Memorial/Reception will be held Sunday, August 25th, 3pm at the Saba Family Home, 198 Idetown Road, Dallas, PA  18612. All are welcome.

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

 

Anna J. “Angie” Spernoga
Died August 18, 2013

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Anna J. “Angie” Spernoga, 82 of Laflin and formerly of the North End section of Wilkes-Barre, passed away Sunday morning at the Wilkes-Barre General Hospital after a brief illness.

Born in the North End section of Wilkes-Barre, she was the daughter of the late Joseph and Mary (Jezerchak) Spernoga.

Angie attended Sacred Heart Slovak Elementary School and was a graduate of James M. Coughlin High School, Wilkes-Barre. 

She was employed by IBM, Washington, D.C. for over 10 years.  Returning home to Wilkes-Barre, she along with her family, owned and operated Spernoga’s Hideaway in the North End section of Wilkes-Barre, for many years.  She was a member of St. Andre Bessette Parish, North East Wilkes-Barre.

Angie loved the outdoors, especially gardening, swimming, and golfing.

She was preceded in death by her sister Josephine Spernoga on October 16, 2012.

Surviving are her beloved companion Judy Cameron, Laflin, sisters Frances Spernoga, Wilkes-Barre, and Theresa Kinney, Harvey’s Lake, nephews Barry and Daniel Kinney.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Wednesday at 9:30 am at St. Andre Bessette Parish, St. Stanislaus Kostka Church, Wilkes-Barre, with Father Kenneth Seeger, Pastor, officiating.  Friends are invited to go directly to church Wednesday morning.  Interment will be held in Sacred Heart Slovak Cemetery, Dorchester Drive, Dallas.  There will be no calling hours.

Memorial donations may be made to St. Andre Bessette Parish,666 North Main Street  Wilkes-Barre, PA  18705.

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

 

Katherine M. Scott
Died August 12, 2013

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Katherine M. Scott, 59 of Wyoming, passed away Monday morning at Geisinger Wyoming Valley, Plains, Twp., with her family by her side.

Born in Wilkes-Barre, she was the daughter of the late John B. and June G. (Renshaw) Grady.

Kathy was a graduate of Plains Memorial High School, and was employed for McDonalds, Wyoming, for 20 years.

She was preceded in death by her brothers Robert & Donald Purvis.

Surviving are her husband of 33 years Leroy Scott, daughter Lisa Shaw and her husband Marc, Nanticoke, son Charlie Scott and his fiancée Julie Vogt, Wyoming, grandson Jacob Shaw, sister Carol Kurovsky and her fiancée Patrick Lipka, Wilkes-Barre, brother William Purvis and his wife Patricia, and sister-in-law Marie Purvis, all of the Hudson section of Plains, nieces and nephews.

Funeral services for Kathy will be held Thursday at 10:00 am at the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street  Plains, PA  18705, with the Rev. Carol Coleman, Pastor of the Luzerne United Methodist Church, officiating.  Entombment will be held in Chapel Lawn Memorial Park, Dallas.

Friends may call Wednesday evening from 5 to 8 pm at the funeral home.

Memorial donations may be made to the charity of one’s choice in Kathy’s memory.

 

 

Bertha M. Liparula
Died August 7, 2013

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Bertha M. Liparula, passed away peacefully Wednesday morning in the arms of her devoted and loving husband, Frank and her son Richard Hannon who were at her side in the Celtic Health care, Hospice Community Care Inpatient Unit at Geisinger South Wilkes-Barre.

Bertha was born in Wilkes-Barre the daughter of the late Raymond and Bertha Richards Wilde. She was a graduate of Elmer L. Meyers High School.
For the last Seven years she and her husband Frank resided in Cape Vincent, New York where they enjoyed the great outdoors of the St. Lawrence River and Lake Ontario. Bertha was a gifted Photographer taking Photos of the land they loved most. She will be sadly missed by her granddaughters Haleigh the light of her eyes and Lexxus with whom she was recently reunited.

In addition to her parents Bertha was preceded in death by her Sister, Cathy Holmes, Sister-in-Law Cook Wilde.

In addition to her Husband Frank and son Richard Hannon, Granddaughters, Haleigh and Lexxus, Bertha is survived by her Brothers; Raymond Wilde, Wilkes-Barre, Joseph Wilde and Wife Elaine, Wilkes-Barre; John Wilde and Wife Paula, Wilkes-Barre, Mark Wilde and Wife Linda Wilkes-Barre, Michael Wilde, Nanticoke; Sisters; Elizabeth Debiase and Husband Joseph, Wilkes-Barre, Mary Wilde, Wilkes-Barre, Patricia Lester, Wilkes-Barre, Ann Marie Nelson and Husband Brian, West Pittston, Brother-in-law Daniel Holmes, Wilkes-Barre, numerous Nephews and Nieces.

Bertha will be deeply missed by her devoted pets, Cleo, Ceasar and Precious. A special thank you is extended to the entire Nursing Staff, CNA’S, MSW’S and Chaplains of the Celtic Homehealth & Hospice Inpatient Unit; to Dr James Juinta whose honesty and compassion aided us through a difficult time and Dr. Susan Sordoni and Dr Fath for their compassionate care while Bertha was a patient in the Inpatient Unit.
Funeral will be held Saturday at 8:45 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home 20 South Main Street Plains with a Mass of Christian Burial at 9:30 in St. Andre Bassett Parish, Holy Saviour Church, Wilkes-Barre. Interment will be held in St. Ignatius Cemetery, Pringle. Friends may call Friday evening form 5 to 8 pm.

In lieu of flowers donations if desired may be made to Eric Speicher a Teenager who is undergoing treatment for Brain Cancer, C/O Anne Speicher Cawley 1876 Pittston Blvd Bear Creek, Wilkes-Barre, Pa. 18702.

 

 

Louise Materazzi
Died July 29, 2013

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Louise Merlino Materazzi, 94, of Etters, PA, and formerly of the Hudson section of Plains, Twp., passed away Monday, July 29, 2013 at her home with her family by her side.

Born in Hudson, PA, she was the daughter of the late Sabbato and Viola (Mirra) Merlino. She attended Cotton Ave School, Hudson, and was employed for several years at the Consolidated Cigar Company in West Pittston.

Louise was a loving mother and housewife. Her greatest joy in life was spending time with her family and friends. Louise and her late husband Edmund hosted countless family dinners and parties at their home. Louise provided her own home made ravioli, gnocchi, pizza and many other Italian dishes, which were beyond compare.
She was a kind, compassionate and generous human being who gave to life far more than she took and did, indeed, leave the world better than she found it.
She was preceded in death by her husband Edmund; son, Edward; brothers, Johnny Merlino who was killed in World War II, Frank Merlino and Dominick Merlino; sisters, Eleanor Costello and Mary Lello.

Louise is survived by her sons Leroy Materazzi and his wife Joyee, Daniel Materazzi and wife Terry; sister Rose Rubino of Laflin; and sister-in-laws, Grace Merlino of Hudson, PA and Caroline Merlino of Bath, PA; Grandchildren, Christine Materazzi, Jeffrey Materazzi, Angela Rist, Tanya Runnels, Jill Materazzi, Todd Materazzi and Danette Materazzi; 11 Great-grandchildren.

Funeral Services for Louise will be held Friday at 9:30 am at the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 S. Main Street in Plains, PA, 18705. Her entombment will be held at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Carverton, PA.

Friends may call Thursday evening from 5 to 8 P.M. at the funeral home.
The family requests, that Memorial Donations be made to Alzheimer’s Foundation of America.

 

 

Michael R. McGrady
Died July 28, 2013

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Michael R. “Buddy” McGrady of Plains, passed away suddenly on Sunday morning, July 28, 2013. 

Michael was born in Plains Township on August 3, 1939, son of the late Michael D. and Isabelle H. (Hope) McGrady.

Michael was a graduate of Sacred Heart High School, Plains, class of 1958.  Following high school, he served in the U.S. Navy and the Naval Reserves where he received an Honorable Discharge.  He worked for several years at Craft Associates, Parsons and then enjoyed a 33 year career in sales at Giant Floor and Wall Covering Company before his retirement.

Mike was very active in his church, SS. Peter and Paul Parish, Plains, where he served as a Eucharistic Minister, avid choir and Men’s Club member.  Mike brought smiles and love to the homebound when he administered communion – a ministry he loved dearly.
Mike was devoted to his family and friends.  He had the patience of a saint.  He was known for his giving, kind, easy-going nature, his love of a good joke and sharing a laugh.  He loved visiting with family and friends, gardening, card games, travel and singing.  Mike was always humming or whistling a tune.  For years he hosted many memorable parties.  One of his greatest joys was spending time with his grandchildren, Joey and Anna.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Peggy Corcoran.  Michael is survived by his wife, Lillian (Krokos) McGrady with whom he enjoyed 44 years of marriage; daughter, Michele Bernardo and her husband, Joseph; son, Kevin McGrady and girlfriend, Melanie Stephenson; grandchildren, Joseph and Anna; sisters  Mary “Honey” Murphy, Rita Vukovich and husband Walter and many wonderful brothers and sisters-in-law; numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, cousins and close friends.

The family wishes to express heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Frank Olshemski and staff, Dr. Michalene Torbik, Celtic Home Health Care and Plains Ambulance Association for their loving and compassionate care.

Funeral will be held Wednesday at 9:30am from Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street  Plains, PA  18705 with a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 am at SS. Peter and Paul Church, 13 Hudson Road Plains.  Interment will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery, Hanover Township, with military honors provided by The United States Navy Funeral Detail. 

Friends may call Tuesday evening from 5 to 8 pm at the funeral home.

Michael’s wish that Memorial Donations be made to SS. Peter and Paul Food Pantry, 13 Hudson Road, Plains, or the Plains Ambulance Association  90 Maffett Street  Plains, PA  18705.

 

 

Thomas J. Davis
July 26. 2013

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Thomas J. Davis, 89, of Hanover Township died Thursday evening at the Wilkes-Barre General Hospital with his family by his side.

Born in Wilkes-Barre, he was the son of the late William and Julia Cosgrove Davis.
Thomas was a graduate of Elmer L. Meyers High School and was a Navy Veteran of World War II and the Korean Conflict.  He served aboard the USS Wilkes-Barre, the USS West Virginia and the USS Tuscaloosa.        
                                                     
He was a Tool and Die maker and was partner in Davis Tool and Machine Shop of Wilkes-Barre and also worked for Atlas Chain and Cable of West-Pittston for 20 years and last for Owens-Illinois of Jenkins Township for 10 years, until his retirement.
Thomas was a member of St. Aloysius Church, Wilkes-Barre and the Hanover American Legion Post 609.

Thomas and his Wife Dorothy meet and spent many years dancing at the Spinning Wheel and were members of the Big Band Society for 13 years.
He is preceded in death by his Brothers, Leonard, William and Alvin and Sister Margret Scott.

Surviving are his Wife of 64 years the former Dorothy  Leedock, Sons; William and his Wife Jody Davis of Wilkes-Barre; Thomas and his Wife Susan Davis of Kingston, Daughters; Deborah Davis of Lake Worth, Florida and Christine and her Husband Todd Kurash, Wilkes-Barre; Grandchildren, Matthew Davis, Emily Bergen, Kaila, Kyle and Koel Kurash; Nephews and Nieces.

Funeral will be held Monday 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. Aloysius Church, Wilkes-Barre. Interment with Military Honors will be held in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Hanover Township.

Friends may call Sunday afternoon from 2 to 4 pm.

 

Anthony “Struzzie” Struzzieri
Died July 18, 2013

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Anthony “Struzzie” Struzzieri, 74 of Old Boston, passed away Thursday morning at Geisinger Wyoming Valley, Plains, Twp.

Born in the Old Boston section of Jenkins Twp., he was the son of the late Angelo & Lena (Nardone) Struzzieri.

Tony was a graduate of Jenkins Township High School, and was employed as a truck driver by  Addy Asphalt for over 20 years.  He was a member of St. Maria Goretti Church, Laflin, The International Brotherhood of Teamsters, Local 401, Wilkes-Barre, and The Old Boston Roma Club.

Tony was a devoted patron of The Lincoln Inn in Dupont where his smile and kind words always may you feel welcome.  His kind heart and generosity, especially around the Holiday’s, will be missed by many.    

He was preceded in death by his wife the former Beverly Landon on March 6, 1983, sister Patricia Ralston, and his brother Vincent Struzzieri.

Surviving are his daughters Lori Struzzieri and her boyfriend Bruce Bronsburg, Larksville, Tina Sperazza and her husband Joseph, Old Boston, and his son Anthony Struzzieri, Old Boston, his devoted dog & buddy Snickers, nieces & nephews.

The family would like to thank Dr. Charles Manganiello, Dr. Mark Bernardi, and the nurses at Geisinger Wyoming Valley, MS 5 West for their special care of Tony.

Funeral will be held Monday at 9:00 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street  Plains, PA  18705, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 9:30 am in St. Maria Goretti Church 42 Redwood Drive  Laflin, PA  18702.  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 Denison Cemetery, Swoyersville, PA.

Friends may call Sunday evening from 5 to 8 pm at the funeral home.

 

 

John L. Murray
Died July 18, 2013

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John L. Murray, 56, of Dallas, Pa., entered into eternal life on Thursday afternoon at his home with his family by his side.
Born in Plains he is the son of Dorothy R. (Burns) Murray of Plains and the late Gerald E. Murray.

John was a graduate of James M. Coughlin High School, Wilkes-Barre, class of 1975, Luzerne County Community College,  Kutztown University and College Misericordia, Dallas. John was Co-founder and owner of GEM Therapeutics of Dallas for the past eleven years.

He was a member of Gate of Heaven Church Dallas, where he served as Eucharist Minister and was a member of Cursilo Prison Ministry in Altoona, Pa., the Guardian of the Redeemer Men’s Group,   and a member of the Men of Malvern Retreat. John was member of the Knights of Columbus Dallas, former Little League Coach for Dallas Little League, a former member of Dallas Rotary Club and played baseball for Kutztown and LCCC.

Surviving in addition to his Mother Dorothy are his Wife of  twenty five years the former Dianne Richard, Seven children; Jessica, New York City, Julianna, at home; Patrick, Joseph, John, Christopher and Michael, all at home; Brothers Gerald Jr., and his wife Suzanne, State College, Joseph and his wife Tracy, Mountain Top; Sisters; Helen Lindner and husband Larry, Clark Summit; Nancy Jones, Plains, Dr. Marianne Hall and husband Kevin, Portland, Maine, numerous Nephews and Nieces.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Tuesday at 10:30 am in Gate of Heaven Church, 40 Machell Avenue Dallas, PA  18612, with Father Dan Toomey, Pastor, as celebrant. Friends are invited to go directly to church Tuesday morning.  Friends may call Monday from 4 to 7 pm at Gate of Heaven Church. Interment will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Hanover Township.

In lieu of Flowers donations if desired may be made to Hospice of the Sacred Heart 600 Baltimore Drive, Wilkes-Barre or the Catherine McAuley House 121 Church Street  Plymouth, PA  18651, or the Charity of one’s choice.

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

 

MICHAEL J. CORCORAN
DIED JULY 18, 2013

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Michael J. Corcoran, age 71, went home to the Lord on Thursday evening July 18, 2013, after a courageous battle with cancer. His beloved wife, Roberta and family were at his bedside.

Born May 26, 1942, the son of the late Hugh and Marie (Mattick) Corcoran, Dad was a 1960 graduate of Sacred Heart High School, Plains.  He was class president 3 of 4 years, an Altar Boy throughout his school years and, to hear him speak, was a better than average basketball player. Dad received the American Legion Award for the highest academic average over his 8 years of grade school.

Dad possessed a bachelor’s degree from Kings College where he served as secretary and president of the Student National Education Association, and was a proud member of the Kings College Glee Club. He also earned a masters degree from the University of Scranton and completed career enrichment courses at Temple University, Glassboro State University, Wilkes University and the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Graduate School.

After three years of teaching, Dad served 31 years with the U.S. Department of Labor's Wage & Hour Division. He often described his role enforcing laws protecting the American worker, as a vocation, the best and most satisfying job in the world. Laws enforced included the Minimum Wage and Overtime Law, the Equal Pay Act, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act, the Family and Medical Leave Act as well as statutes protecting children, the disabled, the rights of migrant workers and those performing on government contracts.

Dad's positive attitude reflected itself in his many career accomplishments. At the local level he served as Investigator, Assistant District Director and District Director. Regionally He performed as Equal Pay & Age Discrimination Specialist, Government Contracts Specialist, Sheltered Workshop Specialist, and Administrative Assistant to the Regional Director.

A frequent instructor at Wage & Hour national training classes, including spending five weeks in the U.S. Virgin Islands training their investigative staff, Dad was consistently asked to serve lengthy details at the National Office level. These included Branch Chief of Wage Hour Standards and Branch Chief of Government Contracts. For many years he served on Regional and National quality control teams conducting accountably reviews to ensure consistent application of agency statues.

He served as District Director of Wage-Hour's Wilkes Barre Office for the last 17 years of his career. The office covered more than half of the Pennsylvania's 67 counties.

 

Subsequent to the 1972 Agnes Flood, Dad was detailed to the Office of Emergency Preparedness. He was in charge of all disaster relief agencies stationed at the Forty Fort Borough Building, the area near the cemetery where the river first breeched the dike. He would brag that he met President Richard Nixon and comedian Bob Hope, who were among many dignitaries who visited during this difficult time.

Dad believed government existed to protect, allow realization of the American Dream, and to provide for the needy and unfortunate among us. He lived his personal life in a similar caring, compassionate manner, especially so towards his children, grandchildren and close friends. An infectiously positive person, Dad believed life was best guided by simple sayings. Among his favorites: "Just do it, but think beyond yourself".

A 3rd degree Knight of Columbus, council 302, and a past member of its advisory board, Dad also served on the Wilkes Barre School District Advisory Committee and was a founding member of Deerhorn Sportsmen's Club. He was a member of the Polish American Vets, the Great Bend VFW, and the Perugia Beneficial Society.

In addition to Roberta, his beloved wife of 48 years, Dad is survived by children Michael and his fiancée Nancy Angus, Cranberry Township PA; Denise Lewandowski and her husband Bernie, Boiling Springs PA; Sandy Graham and her husband Mark, Carlisle PA; and six grandchildren Matthew, Katherine, Alyson, Jake, Andrew and Mackenzie, each loved equally and without bounds.

Also surviving are brothers Hugh and his wife Dorothy, Pittston; Marie Spagnuolo and her husband John, Plains; Ray and his wife, Joyce, Linglestown; and John and his wife, Marilyn, Plains. Dad's parents and sister, Ellen preceded him. Dad was especially comforted throughout his illness by family and friends who "just did it", including maintenance chores at our home; driving assistance on the many trips to Fox Chase Hospital in Philadelphia; routine visits to our home and get well cards.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Tuesday at 9:30 am in St. Frances X Cabrini Church, Carverton. Family and friends are invited to go directly to church Tuesday morning.  Interment will be in Sacred Heart Cemetery, Plains. Friends may call Monday evening from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street  Plains, PA  18705.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation at www.jdrf.org.

 

Vera J. Lisko
Died July 16, 2013

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Vera J. Lisko, 93 of the Miners Mills section of Wilkes-Barre, passed away Tuesday afternoon at the United Methodist Homes, Wesley Village Campus, Jenkins Twp.

Born in Wilkes-Barre, she was the daughter of the late John & Anna (Vanyush) Basalyga.

Vera was a graduate of James M. Coughlin High School, Wilkes-Barre, and was employed for 17 years for the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, Bear Creek, as Clerk of Permits.

She was a member of Holy Trinity Russian Orthodox Church, Miners Mills.

She was preceded in death by her husband Michael Lisko, Sr. on October 30, 2009, brother John Basalyga, and sister Anna Rudusky.

Surviving are her sons Michael Lisko, Jr., and his wife Deanne, Plains, David Lisko, and his wife Cynthia, Chicago, Illinois, grandchildren Michael, Jason, Chrysa, & Nika.

Funeral will be held Saturday at 9:00 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20
South Main Street, Plains, PA  18705, with the Orthodox Requiem Service at 9:30 am at Holy Trinity Russian Orthodox Church, Miners Mills.  Private Entombment will be held in Saint Tikhon of Zadonsk Cemetery, South Canaan, PA, at the convenience of the family.

Friends may call Friday from 3:00 to 5:00 pm at the funeral home.

Memorial donations may be made to the United Methodist Homes, Wesley Village Campus  209 Roberts Road, Pittston, PA  18640.

 

Marguerite M. Magdelinskas
Died July 17, 2013

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Marguerite M. Magdelinskas, 87 of Plains, Twp., passed away Wednesday morning at the inpatient unit of Hospice Community Care, Geisinger South, Wilkes-Barre.

Born in Wilkes-Barre, she was the daughter of the late Joseph & Stella (Korzinski) Falkowski.

Marguerite was a graduate of G.A.R. Memorial High School, Wilkes-Barre, Class of 1943, and was a homemaker all of her life.

She was a member of Sacred Heart Church, Plains, and its Altar & Rosary Society, and currently a member of SS. Peter & Paul Church, Plains. 

She was preceded in death by her husband of 62 years, Joseph C. Magdelinskas on March 8, 2010, brothers Edmund and Norbert Falkowski.

Surviving are her Son Joseph Magdelinskas, Annapolis, Maryland, daughter Marie Baronick and her husband Gary,  Liverpool, NY, Grandchildren Amy Stevens, Gary Baronick and his wife Nicole, Beth Dec and her husband Paul, and Michael and Leigh Magdelinskas,  Great-Grandchildren Isabelle, Victoria, Joseph, and Elizabeth Baronick and Brandon and Meghan Stevens, sister Emilie Hertely, Wilkes-Barre, brothers John Falkowski and his wife Helen, White Haven, and Joseph Falkowski and his wife Fran, Wilkes-Barre, brother-in-law Vito Magdelinskas, Warwick, New York, several nieces and nephews.

Funeral will be held Saturday at 10:00 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street  Plains, PA  18705, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 am in SS. Peter & Paul Church, 13 Hudson Road, Plains.  Interment will be held in Holy Trinity Cemetery, Bear Creek.

Friends may call Friday from 6:30 to 8:30 pm at the funeral home.

Memorial donations may be made to the American Heart Association 613 Baltimore Drive, Suite 3
Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702.

 

Paul “Deek” Dessoye
Died July 14, 2013

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Paul A. “Deek” Dessoye, 75 of Plains Twp., passed away Sunday morning at his home with his family by his side.

Born in Plains, he was the son of the late John P. and Anna (Martin) Dessoye.

Paul was a graduate of Plains Memorial High School, Class of 1957, and was a Navy Veteran serving as a Radioman aboard the U.S.S. Cascade.  He was employed as a machinist for Proctor & Gamble for 25 years until his retirement.

Paul was a lifelong member of Sacred Heart Church, Plains, and currently a member of SS. Peter & Paul Church, Plains, and a member of the Plains American Legion, Joseph E. Conlon, Post 558.

He was preceded in death by his brother John Dessoye, sister Audrey Dessoye, and son-in-law Duane Herbert.

Surviving are his daughters Paula Mattey and her husband Walter, Wilkes-Barre, Deborah Herbert, Bear Creek Twp., Carol Dessoye, Larksville, Maureen Dessoye, and Denise Dessoye, both of Plains, grandsons Chris, Ryan, Shane, Mark, Patrick and Nathan, great-granddaughter Lily, wife Patricia (Gillespie) Dessoye, brother Frank Dessoye and his wife Marita, Plains, sisters Annabelle Suchoski and her husband Edward, Plains, Gloria Jasterzenski and her husband James, Luzerne, Kathleen Shea and her husband Joseph, Plains, and Margaret “Peggy” Fedor and her husband Daniel, Hooksett, New Hampshire, many nieces & nephews.

The family would like to thank the staff and nurses of Traditional Home Health Care & Hospice of Dunmore, FML Dialysis Center and the Staff  of Geisinger Medical Center for their wonderful care of Paul.

Funeral will be held Wednesday at 9:00 am at the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street  Plains, PA  18705, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 9:30 am in SS. Peter & Paul Church, 13 Hudson Road  Plains.  Interment with Military Honors will be held in the parish cemetery, Plains.

Friends may call Tuesday from 5 to 8 pm at the funeral home.

Memorial donations may be made to the Plains Ambulance Association  90 Maffett Street, Plains, PA  18705 or to Traditional Home Health Care & Hospice  113 Drinker Street  Dunmore, PA  18512, in Paul’s memory.

 

Alfred J. Gurnari
Died June 28, 2013

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Alfred J. Gurnari, 78, of the Miners Mills section of Wilkes-Barre, died Friday morning at The Laurels, Kingston.
Born in Luzerne, he was the son of the late Bruno and Catherine (Provenziano) Gurnari.

attended Luzerne schools and was an Army Veteran of the Korean Conflict, receiving the National Defense Service Medal, Korea Service Medal, and the U.N. Service Medal.

He was employed for Acme Bakery in Wilkes-Barre for 26 years, Blue Cross for 20 years and last for Gold Star Wide Format of Wilkes-Barre. He was a member of St. Benedicts Parish, Parsons. Al was an avid bowler at Chacko’s Bowling.

He was preceded in death by his Wife Anne Marie on February 28, 2013; Brothers, Joseph, Dominick and Bruno Gurnari.

Surviving are his Children; Nina Deno and her husband Lloyd, Ashley; Alan Gurnari, Wilkes-Barre, Patty Zendarski and her husband Bob, Glen Lyon and Joseph “Jody” Gurnari and his wife Bobbi Jo, Plains; 10 Grandchildren and 3 Great-grandchildren; Brothers; Frank Gurnari, Luzerne, Larry Gurnari and his wife Helen, Swoyersville; Anthony Gurnari Edwardsville, Virgil Gurnari, Luzerne; Sister Arlene Kane and Husband Jerry, Swoyersville and Anne Marie Padalski, Swoyersville; Nephews and Nieces.

Funeral will be held Tuesday at 9:30 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home Inc.,  20 South Main Street Plains Pa., with a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 am in St. Benedict’s Parish, St. Dominic’s Church, 155 Austin Avenue Parsons, PA.

Interment with Military Honors will be held at St. Mary’s Cemetery, Hanover Township. Friends may call Monday from 4 to 7 pm at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Luke’ Villa, 80 E. Northampton Street Wilkes-Barre, Pa. 18702.

 

Thomas G. Shortz, Sr.
Died June 28, 2013

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Thomas G. Shortz, Sr., 77 of Wilkes-Barre, passed away Friday morning at the Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Plains, Twp.

Born in Wilkes-Barre, he was the son of the late George A. and Mary (Swiderski) Shortz and the step-son of the late Rose (Letastik) Shortz.

Tom attended Wilkes-Barre schools and was a U.S. Marine Corps Veteran of the Korean Conflict, attaining the rank of corporal.  He was employed for the Wilkes-Barre General Hospital for 36 years retiring in 1996.

Tom was a soft spoken man who loved to spend time with his family.  Family was everything to him.  He enjoyed sports and was an avid Penn State and Philadelphia Eagles Fan.

He and his wife the former Emily Feist, celebrated their 54th wedding anniversary on November 24, 2012.

He was preceded in death by his daughter Emily Shortz in 1994.

Surviving in addition to his wife Emily, are his son Thomas G. Shortz, Jr., and his wife Susan, Wilkes-Barre, daughters Laura Cooper, Duryea, and Bonnie Long and her husband Robert, Wilkes-Barre Twp., grandchildren Thomas G. Shortz, III, Timothy Shortz, and Tory Shortz, Bryanna Rosendo, Brittany Long, Bryan Cooper and Jessica Meyers, great-grandchildren Bobby Feist, Michael, Braden, and Noah Shortz, Dominick and Damien Irwin, Jayden and Jalissa Shortz, Antonio Rosendo, and Madison Williams, several nieces and nephews.

Funeral Services for Tom will be private and held at the convenience of the family.

Family and friends are invited to attend Tom’s viewing Sunday from 2:00 to 5:00 pm at the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street  Plains, PA  18705.

Memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society 712 S. Keyser Avenue, Taylor, PA 18517   or to the charity of ones choice.

 

Orlando “Londo” Barbacci
Died June 22, 2013

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Orlando J. “Londo” Barbacci, 86, of North Canton, Ohio, died on June 22, 2013, surrounded by his family.   He was born on April 30, 1927, in Plainsville, PA , the twelfth of fourteen children of the late Domenico and Josephina (Brozzi)  Barbacci. 

Orlando was a long time resident of North Canton, OH and a US Army veteran of World War II. 

Orlando was the first member of his family to graduate from college.  He received a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering from Tri-State College in Angola, Indiana, by benefit of the GI Bill.  He later received a Master degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Akron, Akron, Ohio. 

He was employed as an electrical engineer at Goodyear Aerospace in Akron, Ohio in the Aircraft Wheel and Brake Division for over 30 years.  He was a principal engineer in developing a flight simulator for the A6-A Intruder aircraft and trained Navy pilots at the Cherry Point Marine Corps Air Station in Havelock, North Carolina.

Orlando taught engineering technology at the University of Akron for over 20 years.  He served as a Democratic Committeeman in Stark County, Ohio and was a member of the Stark County Inventors Club.

Orlando loved farming and grew vegetables and produce for many years.  He especially enjoyed growing and selling pumpkins, Indian corn and sunflowers.  He was affectionately known to many as “The Pumpkin Man.”  Orlando loved spending time with his family and keeping his Italian family traditions alive.
He was honored to be called “Grandpa” by Ayat, Hassanayn, Zaynab, Fatymah and Aly Joseph of Toledo, Ohio.  The family would like to extend their gratitude to the nurses and staff of the Windsor Medical Center, North Canton, Ohio and Harbor Light Hospice for the care provided to Orlando.  The family would also like to extend their thanks and gratitude to the many physicians and nurse practitioners at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation, for the “World Class Cardiac Care” provided.

He and his wife the former Mary Patricia Hudanick would have celebrated their 61st wedding anniversary on June 28, 2013.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers Armando (Herman), Guilio (Julio), Fernando (James) Natale (Barb) and Eugilio (Gene) Barbacci, sisters Rosa Ragugini, Viola Donini, Orella Caparoni, and Irene Bechetti, and infant sister Clemantina Barbacci.

Surviving in addition to his wife Patricia are his daughters Marguerite (Ted Rogers), Manns Choice, PA, Josephine Anne, North  Canton, OH and Lisa Marie, Medina, OH, his twin sister, Louise Yanoshak and sister Clementine (Tillie) Cross both of Plains, and brother John Barbacci of Havelock, NC, sisters-in-law Mary Barbacci and Alda Barbacci and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

A Mass of Christian Burial for Londo will be held Saturday, June 29, 2013, at 9:30 am in St. Frances X. Cabrini Church, Carverton section of Wyoming.  Family and friends are invited to go directly to church Saturday morning.  Private interment will be held in Mount Olivet Cemetery.  Friends may call Friday from 5:00 to 8:00 pm at the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street  Plains, PA  18705.

The family suggests that Memorial Donations be made to Salvation Army 520 Kidder Street  Wilkes-Barre, PA  18702 or the Cleveland Clinic Foundation by e-mail at giving@ccf.org.

 

Dorothy M. Ashton
Died June 23, 2013

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Dorothy M. Ashton, 80 of Wilkes-Barre, passed away Sunday morning at Guardian Elder Care Center, Nanticoke.

Born in Wilkes-Barre, she was the daughter of the late Albert & Viola (Love) Llewellyn.

Dorothy was a graduate of Plains Memorial High School, class of 1950, and was a homemaker all of her life.

She was preceded in death by her sons Richard and Robert Ashton, and her brother David Llewellyn.

Surviving are her sons Bill, Gary, Danny and Scott, Daughters Bonnie, Debbie, Cathy and Cheryl, 40 grandchildren, 30 great-grandchildren, 4 great-great-grandchildren, sister Annette Reidy, Wilkes-Barre, many nieces and nephews.

Funeral Services for Dorothy will be held Tuesday at 7:00 pm at the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street Plains, PA  18705.  Interment will be held at the convenience of the family.

Friends may call Tuesday from 4:00 to 7:00 pm at the Funeral Home.

 

Mary S. Rymar
Died June 19, 2013

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Mary “Mamie” Rymar, 104 ½, a resident of Plains Township, passed away on June 19, 2013 at her home with her granddaughter Jean Marie at her side.

Born on December 5, 1908 in Larksville, she was the daughter of the late Philip and Sophie (Leonard) Nice.

Mary was the widow of Stanley Rymar, who died on March 3, 1955. She was a member of the churches of Sacred Heart and SS. Peter & Paul, of Plains, and its Altar and Rosary Societies.

She attended Larksville Borough Schools and was employed as a seamstress for Plains Blouse until her retirement.

In addition to her husband Stanley, she was preceded in death by her son Robert.  Also six brothers, John, George, Philip, Joseph, Frank, and Thomas Nice, and one sister Ann Shimko.  She was the last surviving sibling in a family of eight children.

Surviving are her granddaughter and caretaker, Jean Marie Rymar, with who she resided, grandson Robert Rymar, Wilkes-Barre, and daughter-in-law Regina Rymar, Wilkes-Barre. 

Mary’s Funeral was held at the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street Plains, with a Mass of Christian Burial in SS. Peter & Paul Church, Plains.  Interment was held in Sacred Heart Cemetery, Plains.

 

Andrew Gobla
Died June 18, 2013

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Andrew Gobla, 88 of Wilkes-Barre, went to be with his Lord and Saviour on June 18, 2013.  He had resided at Little Flower Manor for the past 2 ½ years.

Andy was born in Mountaintop on April 13, 1925, son of the late Andrew and Mary Gobla. 

He attended Mountaintop area schools and was a U.S. Navy Veteran of World War II, serving aboard the U.S.S. Franklin.  Upon his honorable discharge from the Navy, he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force and was a Veteran of the Korean Conflict.  After Andy’s second Honorable Discharge, he was employed as an electrician at Faith Shoe Factory and Topps Chewing Gum until his retirement in 1988.

He was a member of the East End Primitive Methodist Church.

He and his wife the former Ruth Miller, would have celebrated their 57th wedding anniversary on June 30, 2013.

He was preceded in death by his daughter Elizabeth Anne Stawasz, sisters Eva Lebert and Mary Schwenk, brothers Frank, Harry, John, Michael, and George.

Surviving in addition to his wife Ruth are his daughter Sharon Leslie and her husband Edward, Miners Mills section of Wilkes-Barre, grandchildren Erica Leslie Bennick, Nicole Stawasz Gregori, Craig Stawasz, Edward T. Leslie and Madisen Leslie, son-in-law Jack Stawasz, Plains, several nieces and nephew.

Funeral Services for Andy will be held Saturday, June 29, 2013 at  11:00 am at the East End Primitive Methodist Church, Wilkes-Barre, with Rev. Marty Garms, Pastor, officiating.  Interment will be held at the convenience of the family.

Memorial donations may be made to Little Flower Manor, 200 Meade Street  Wilkes-Bare, PA  18702 or to the East End Primitive Methodist Church, 79 Laurel Street Wilkes-Barre, PA  18702 in Andy’s memory.

 

Christine “Tina” Baines
Died June 7, 2013

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Christine “Tina” Baines, 52 of the Miners Mills section of Wilkes-Barre, and formerly of Raleigh, North Carolina, passed away Friday morning at her home after a courageous battle with cancer, with her family by her side.

Born in Wilkes-Barre, she was the daughter of Florence (Dworakoski) Pienta and the late Stanley Pienta, who passed away June 20, 1982.

Tina was a graduate of James M. Coughlin High School, Class of 1978, and was employed for The Times Leader, Wilkes-Barre, in the Advertising Dept. for the past five years.

Tina was an avid Philadelphia Phillies and Pittsburgh Steelers Fan.  She enjoyed attending concerts, festivals, The Party on the Patio at the Mohegan Sun, and was a lover of music.

Surviving in addition to her mother Florence, are her brothers Daniel Pienta and his wife Jackie, Wilkes-Barre, Stanley Pienta and his wife Joan, Plains, sister Mary Maurer and her companion Edward Gill, Wilkes-Barre, several nieces and nephews, 2 great nephews, and 1 great niece.

A Memorial Service for Tina will be held Monday, June 10, 2013, at 7:00 pm at the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street  Plains, PA  18705, with Father Joseph A. Kearney, Officiating.  Interment will be held at the convenience of the family.

Friends may call Monday from 5:00 pm till 7:00 pm at the funeral home.

Memorial donations may be made to the SPCA of Luzerne County, 524 E. Main Street, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702, or to Choose Hope, Inc., 1261 W. Main Street Sun Prairie, WI  53590.

 

Mary Margaret Satkowski 
Died May 31, 2013

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Mary Margaret Konsavage Satkowski, of the Parsons section of Wilkes-Barre, passed away Friday evening at the inpatient unit of Hospice Community Care, Geisinger South, Wilkes-Barre.

Mary Margaret was born in Wilkes-Barre, daughter of the late Michael and Margaret Konsavage and was a graduate of James M. Coughlin High School, Wilkes-Barre, Class of 1970.

Mary Margaret was employed for Valley Vending of Wilkes-Barre and last for American Food and Vending of Taylor.

She was a member of Blessed Sacrament Church, Miners Mills and currently a member of St. Benedict’s Parish/ St. Dominick’s Church, Parsons.

Surviving are her Husband of 34 years, Donald Satkowski; Daughter, Laura Satkowski and Fiancée Christopher Zawatsky; Sisters, Barbara Dugan, Branchburg, N. J.; Kathryn Harris and her husband Steve, Neshanic Station, N.J.; Sharon Rogan and Husband Joseph, Dallas, Pa. Nephews and Nieces.

Donald and Laura would like to thank Dr. Martin Martino of Lehigh Valley Hospital, Dr. Bruce Saidman and Dr. David Greenwald, Dr. Kevin Carey and Wilkes-Barre General Hospital 5Th floor and the Staff of Hospice Community Care for their wonderful care of Mary.

Funeral will be held Tuesday 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. Dominick’s Church, 155 Austin Avenue, Parsons, with Father Joseph A. Kearney, Pastor, Officiating.  Interment will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Hanover Township.

Friends may call Monday afternoon from 4 to 7 pm at the funeral home.

Memorial donations if desired may be made to Medical Oncology Prescription Drug Fund, 382 Pierce Street, Kingston, PA 18704, in Mary’s Memory.

 

Veronica T. Ungvarsky
Died May 1, 2013

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Veronica T. Ungvarsky, 91, formerly of the North End section of Wilkes-Barre, left the loving arms of her family to be with God on Wednesday, May 1, 2013, at the home of her daughter.

Veronica was born on February 14, 1922 in Siba, Czechoslovakia, daughter of the late Andrew and Mary Fertal and immigrated to America in 1928. 

She was a graduate of James M. Coughlin High School, Wilkes-Barre, and was a member of Sacred Heart of Jesus Slovak Church in the North End Section of Wilkes-Barre for 85 years.  While a member, she belonged to the Catholic Daughters Rosary Society and the Sacred Heart School PTA.  She also volunteered with compassion at Manor Care Nursing Home, Kingston, and at the Seniors Citizens Center, Wilkes-Barre.

Veronica was employed by Central Slipper Company for many years, however, her most important and cherished job was being Nana, and she was “The Best.”  She was extremely proud of her family and enjoyed spending time with them around the dinner table.

In addition to her parents, Veronica was preceded in death by her husband Stephen, sister Mary Benz, and brother Frank Fertal.

Surviving are her daughter Joan Magdalinski and her husband Frank, Son James Ungvarsky, and Stephen Ungvarsky and his wife Theresa, grandchildren Michael and his wife Christine, and Linda Viteritti and her husband John, great-grandchildren Robert, Emily, and Ryan Viteritti, and Morgan and Mason Magdalinski, brother Rev. Joseph Fertal, SVD, sisters-in-law, Eleanor Ungvarsky and Mary Ungvarsky, several nieces and nephews. 

Veronica’ family would like to thank her caregivers, Mzia, and Maia, sisters Joseph Louise and Joseph Marie Magdalinski, and Dr. Joseph Radzwilka for their outstanding care and kindness.

Veronica’s Funeral Mass will be held Saturday at 11:00 am at St. Maria Goretti Church, 42 Redwood Drive  Laflin, PA  18702.  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 held in Sacred Heart Slovak Cemetery, Dallas.

Friends may call Saturday morning from 10:00 to 11:00 am at St. Maria Goretti Church.

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

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Veronica’s name may be made to the St. Vincent de Paul’s Soup Kitchen  39 E. Jackson Street  Wilkes-Barre, PA  18702.

 

Mildred M. Adonizio
Died May 30, 2013

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Mildred M. Adonizio, 92, of Laflin, died Thursday morning at her home.

Born in Inkerman, she was  the daughter of the late William and Catherine  (Harrington) Mulderig.

Mildred was a graduate of  St. John’s High School, Pittston and Marywood University Scranton,  receiving her Master’s degree in education.  Mildred taught school at the Scranton Techinal School until her retirement, and was past treasurer of ther retired techers assosciation.

Mildred was the former owner and operator of TWIN Oaks Cafe , in Inkerman.

She was a member of St. Maria Goretti Church Laflin and a member of The Young at Heart Club of church.

She was preceded in death by her Sister, Mary Dohman and Brother Attorney Frank  Mulderig.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Saturday at 10:00 am in St. Maria Goretti Church, Laflin . The Parish  Rosary Group will recite the Divine Mercy Chaplet and Rosary in the Church 30 minutes before the Funeral Mass.  Interment  will be in  Catherdal Cemetery,  Oram Street  Scranton, PA. 

Friends may Saturday morning at St. Maria Goretti Church from 9:00 am until 9:45am.

Memorial donations if desired may be made to St. Maria Goretti Church, 42 Redwood Drive, Laflin, PA  18702.

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

 

Duane J. Herbert
Died May 28, 2013

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Duane J. Herbert, 53 of Bear Creek Twp., passed away Tuesday morning at his home.

Born in Wilkes-Barre, he was the son of John Herbert of Pittston, and Elizabeth (Winter) Herbert of Bear Creek.

Duane was a graduate of James M. Coughlin High School, Wilkes-Barre, Class of 1977, and was the owner of Mountain Auto Shop, Bear Creek for 35 years. 

He was a member of the Polish American Veterans, Hudson section of Plains, The Triangle Club, Miners Mills section of Wilkes-Barre, and was a member of the F. & A.M. Lodge #61, Wilkes-Barre. Duane was a family man who was always there to lend a helping hand to his family and friends.  He especially loved spending time with his granddaughter Lily.

Surviving in addition to his parents are his wife of 30 years the former Debbie Dessoye, sons Christopher, Ryan, and Shane, all of Bear Creek Twp., granddaughter Lily Miraglia, Mountaintop, brother John Herbert and partner Narin Kaowliam, Plymouth, sister Cathie Thomas and her husband Paul, Edwardsville, Denise McMillian and her husband Edward, Harvey’s Lake, nephews and nieces.

Funeral services will be private and held at the convenience of the family.  A memorial service will be held at a later date.

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

 

Teresa “Terry” Georgetti
Died May 24, 2013

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Teresa “Terry” Georgetti, 88, a long time resident of Plains, PA, passed away peacefully on May 24, 2013 at Riverstreet Manor Nursing Home, Wilkes-Barre, where she resided for the last five years.

Born October 20, 1924 in Mildred, PA, Terry was the daughter of the late William and Elizabeth (O’Neil) McGee.

She was a graduate of Cherry Township High School, and was a member of the former Sacred Heart Church, Plains.

Terry was owner of Terry’s Luncheonette, Plains, from 1950 to1992.  The students of Plains Memorial High School kept her busy for many years and she thought of each and every one of them as her “Kids.”  She also worked at the Grand Union, Public Square, Wilkes-Barre.

Terry was an avid Notre Dame Football fan.  She never missed watching a game.

She was preceded in death by her husband Alfred Georgetti, who passed away in 1992, brothers Gerald, Eugene, James, and William McGee, sisters Agnes McGee, Josephine Husted, and Sr. Elizaretta McGee.

Surviving are her son Tito Georgetti and his wife Mary, Plains, grandson Tony Georgetti, Sugarloaf, several nieces and nephews.

The family would like to thank Dr. Patel and the many nurses, aides, and the entire staff of Riverstreet Manor for their kindness, generous care, and friendship they provided Terry over the past five years.

Funeral Services will be held Monday, May 27, 2013, Memorial Day, at 4:00 pm at the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street, Plains, PA  18705.  Friends may call Monday afternoon from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm at the funeral home.  Interment will be held at the convenience of the family.

Memorial donations may be made in Terry’s name to the SPCA of Luzerne County, 524 E. Main Street, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702, or to Blue Chip Farms at www.bcfanimalrefuge.org/donate

 

Helen T. McNelis
Died May 22, 2013

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Helen T. McNelis, a 50 year resident of Trucksville, Pa, and former resident of Pittston, Pa, left this world unexpectedly Wednesday morning to join her beloved husband Lee.

To say Helen loved life would be the understatement of the century. Most recently, she celebrated a milestone birthday, attended the 40th birthday celebration of her Grandson, Jordan ("Joby") as well as the graduation of her grandson, Sean, from Georgetown University. Helen was looking forward to attending her Granddaughter Cassidy's upcoming graduation from High School.

A daughter of the late Leo Pace and Catherine (O'Rourke) Pace, Helen was born in Pittston, Pa ON December 14. Although a Back Mountain resident for many years and a loved neighbor there, she simply adored the town where she grew up and remained a proud and loyal former resident for all of her life. Helen was a 1945 graduate of Pittston High School, where she served as captain of the Majorettes. She was also very active at the polling stations in Pittston on Election Day.

Mrs. McNelis was a member of St. Therese's Church in Shavertown where she often graced the Bake Sales there with her scrumptious home-made pies. St. Therese of the Little Flower was her favorite saint and she regularly said novenas to her. In addition, Danny Thomas' St. Jude's Children's Hospital was very dear to her heart.

Helen loved to entertain, get together with her many friends and simply had the most beautiful blue eyes one could ever gaze upon. She loved music and knew the word to every old time sing along and Irish song. Deeply associated with her Irish heritage, Helen was an avid Notre Dame Football fan as well as a member of the ladies auxiliary of the Ancient Order of Hibernians, the Donegal Society of Wilkes-Barre, and a member of the Pittston Chapter of The Jacqueline’s Society. She, along with a multitude of friends and family members, would never think of missing the annual Irish Fall Festival Weekend held in North Wildwood, New Jersey, along with the Classic Car Weekend where she loved admiring Sharp-Looking cars. With the possible exception of her lavish Christmas Day spreads, St. Patrick's Day was Helen's favorite holiday. She was as synonymous with it as shamrocks and leprechauns. If Helen could speak for herself, she would undoubtedly prefer us to celebrate the many years we were lucky enough to spend with her instead of mourning her loss.

Helen maintained her parents graves right up until the end and had plans on doing that this Memorial Day weekend. She was extremely proud to be an American, had the utmost respect for our armed forces and even maintained the graves of unknown soldiers when time allowed.

In addition to her parents, Helen was preceded in death by her husband and best friend, Lee McNelis; Siblings Claire Kling, DeLores Lynott, Ann O'Brien and Leo, William and Harry Pace and Son-In-Law John Versari, her own son as far as Helen was concerned, with whom she shared her birthday with.

She is survived by daughters, Sharon Versari, Trucksville; Cathy and husband Dr. Paul J. Witt, Dallas; Licia and husband, Dr. Robert Guilday, Wallingford, Pa; grandchildren, Jordan, Keriellen, P.J., Licia, Sean, Caili, Cassidy, Quinn and Robbie; great-granddaughter, Maddie McEvoy, numerous nieces and nephews, including Billy Pace, Wilkes-Barre and Leo Pace, Maryland, whom she considered her own children, and Joseph and David Pace, whom she considered grandchildren.

Funeral will be held Saturday at 9:15 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street Plains, PA  18705, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 am in St. Therese’s Church, Shavertown, with Father James J. Paisley, Pastor, officiating.  Entombment will be held in Mount Olivet Cemetery, Carverton section of Wyoming.  Friends may call Friday evening from 5:00 to 8:00 pm at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to Danny Thomas' St. Jude Children´s Research Hospital, 332 North Lauderdale, Memphis, TN 38105, or to St. Therese’s Church 64 Davis Street  Shavertown, PA  18708.

 

Sister Mary Luke Gibbons
Died May 15, 2013

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Sister Mary Luke Gibbons, a member of the Mid-Atlantic Community of the Sisters of Mercy, died at Mercy Center, Dallas, on Wednesday, May 15, 2013.

Baptized Rita Gibbons, Sister Luke was born November 27, 1919 in Wilkes-Barre, daughter of the late John and Anna Marie (Connor) Gibbons.

Sister Luke graduated from James M. Coughlin High School, Wilkes-Barre, and received a degree in Business Education from Misericordia University, Dallas, and her Master’s Degree from Catholic University.

Sister entered the Sisters of Mercy in Dallas, PA on September 8, 1944 and professed her vows on March 12, 1947.

Sister Luke was well prepared for her ministry in education which included both elementary and secondary schools in the Dioceses of New York and Scranton.  It was her great joy to be on the faculty of Misericordia University where she initated and chaired the Business Administration Program.  Sister Luke also served the Sisters of Mercy as Provincial Secretary in the former Scranton Province.

Sister Luke will be remembered by many at the former Wilkes-Barre General Hospital where she volunteered as a Eucharistic Minister.  Sister was then pleased to become an active member in the Ministry of Prayer at Mercy Center.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sisters Catherine and Mary P. Gibbons, her brothers Robert, Joseph, and William Gibbons.

Sister Luke is survived by her sister Mrs. Gertrude Alles, and many devoted nieces and nephews.

The Celebration of her Life will begin at Mercy Center Dallas on Friday, Mary 24, 2013 with a welcoming prayer at 9:00 am, followed by a viewing until 10:15 am.  A Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:30 am, followed by interment at Mount Olivet Cemetery, Carverton section of Wyoming.

Memorial donations in the name of Sister Luke may be made to Mercy Center, P.O. Box 370  Dallas, PA  18612.

 

Florence C. Kozera
Died May 16, 2013

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Florence C. Kozera, 93 of Wilkes-Barre, passed away Thursday morning at Riverstreet Manor Nursing Home, Wilkes-Barre.

Born in Wilkes-Barre, she was the daughter of the late Martin and Anna (Gola) Kozera.

Florence attended James M. Coughlin High School, Wilkes-Barre, was employed for House of Savoy of Wilkes-Barre until her retirement.  She was a life long member of St. Stanislaus Kostka Church, currently St. Andre Bessette Parish, North End Section of Wilkes-Barre.

She was preceded in death by her Brothers Joseph & John Kozera, and sister Mary Kozera.

Surviving are her sisters Bertha Kozera, Wilkes-Barre, Josephine Sincavage, Tobyhanna, and Stella Fabbrini, Wilkes-Barre, several nieces and nephews, several great-nieces and nephews, and several great-great-nieces and nephews; several 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 St. Stanislaus Kostka Church, Wilkes-Barre, with Father Kenneth Seegar, Pastor, Officiating.  Interment will be in the parish cemetery, Plains.

Friends may call Sunday evening from 5 to 7 pm at the funeral home.

 

 

Ann Giovannini
Died May 13, 2013

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Ann Giovannini, 69 of Plains, PA, passed from this world on Monday, May 13, 2013, with her family and friends at her side.

Ann was born in Laflin, PA, daughter of the late Joseph & Olga (Mudzik) Phillips, and the devoted wife of the late Andrew M. Giovannini.

She was a graduate of Plains Memorial High School, and Mercy Hospital School of Nursing, and was a Mercy Nurse at Mercy Hospital, Wilkes-Barre, for more than 40 years before retiring to spend more time with her children and grandchildren.

Ann enjoyed traveling the world with her family and friends.  She selflessly devoted herself to her family and always put the comfort and happiness of her family and friends above her own.  Ann volunteered her time and talent to the McAuley Clinic in Wilkes-Barre where she volunteered as a nurse giving care to those in need.  She was a member of SS. Peter & Paul Church, Plains, and the Red Hats’.

Ann was preceded in death by her husband Andrew M. Giovannini on March 31, 1982, Brothers Joseph and Thomas Phillips, Sister Patricia Ceprish.

Surviving are her daughter Lisa Giovannini, Plains, son Atty. Andrew Giovannini and his wife Marquita, Tiverton, Rhode Island, grandsons Noah and Joshua, granddaughters Madeline and Emilia, Brothers Ronald Phillips and his wife Cecelia, Plains, Robert Phillips and his wife Beverly, and David Phillips, all of Laflin, several nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Friday at 9:30 am in SS. Peter & Paul Church, 13 Hudson Road  Plains, PA  18705.  Family and friends are asked to go directly to church.  Interment will be held in the parish cemetery, Plains.  There will be no calling hours.

Memorial donations may be made to the Make-A-Wish Foundation, 480 Scott Street, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702, or to Medical Oncology Prescription Fund  382 Pierce Street Kingston, PA  18704.

 

Jean H. Darsky
Died May 12, 2013

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Jean H. Darsky, 65 of Westminister, Jenkins Twp., passed away late Sunday afternoon after being struck by a motor vehicle.

Born in Detroit, Michigan, she was the daughter of the late Stanley and Martha (Somoga) Godlewski.

Jean was a graduate of Plains Memorial High School, Class of 1965, and was employed as a Meat Room Clerk for Acme Markets, Price Chopper, and Sunshine Market until her retirement.

Jean always made everything right for her son and family.  Mark was blessed with a special mother, and every day with Jean was a great day.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband Thomas Darsky on August 30, 2003, infant brother Leo, Sisters Barbara Zielinski and Francine T. Klutchko.

Surviving are her son Mark “Rocky” Darsky, Jenkins Twp., sister-in-law Shirley Darsky, Westminister, nieces and nephews.

Funeral Services will be held Thursday evening at 9:00 pm at the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street  Plains, PA  18705.  Interment will be held Friday in Fern Knoll Burial Park, Dallas. 

Friends may call Thursday evening from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm at the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., Plains.

 

Laurence L. Mc Grady
Died May 10, 2013

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Laurence L. Mc Grady, 75, of Plains Township, passed away Friday morning at Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center Plains, after suffering a heart attack.

Born in Plains, he was the son of the late Joseph and Loretta (Brady) Mc Grady.
Larry was a graduate of Sacred Heart High School, Plains, Class of 1955, St. Elizabeth Hospital School of Nursing, Boston, Massachusetts, receiving his R.N., received his Baccalaureate Degree in Nursing from St. Louis University, St. Louis Missouri and received his Masters Degree in Rehabilitation Counseling from the University of Scranton. Larry received the Par Excellence in Clinical Nursing, Who’s Who in America Nursing and belonged to the Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing.

He was a Board member and Past President of the Pennsylvania Council of Homemakers/Home Health Aides, Member of the Professional Advisory Committee for the School of Nursing at College Misericordia, Dallas; Certified as Nursing Instructor for the Home Health Nursing Course, American Red Cross Chapter, Wilkes-Barre.
Larry was employed in the Health Care Industry for 35 years both in Private and Federal Sectors. He had been employed in staff to administrative position in the health care industry in Massachusetts, California, Missouri and Pennsylvania and had been licensed to practice nursing in these Commonwealths and States.

He was last employed for as Director of Nursing Services for the VNA of Wyoming Valley until his retirement.

In addition to his mother and father, Larry is preceded in death by his brothers Francis and Leo Mc Grady.

Surviving are his sister Loretta McGilloway and husband James, Lakewood, N.J.; and brother Thomas McGrady, Yardville N.J.; several nephews and nieces.
Private funeral services will be held at the convenience of the family.

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

 

Veronica T. Ungvarsky
Died May 1, 2013

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Veronica T. Ungvarsky, 91, formerly of the North End section of Wilkes-Barre, left the loving arms of her family to be with God on Wednesday, May 1, 2013, at the home of her daughter.

Veronica was born on February 14, 1922 in Siba, Czechoslovakia, daughter of the late Andrew and Mary Fertal and immigrated to America in 1928. 

She was a graduate of James M. Coughlin High School, Wilkes-Barre, and was a member of Sacred Heart of Jesus Slovak Church in the North End Section of Wilkes-Barre for 85 years.  While a member, she belonged to the Catholic Daughters Rosary Society and the Sacred Heart School PTA.  She also volunteered with compassion at Manor Care Nursing Home, Kingston, and at the Seniors Citizens Center, Wilkes-Barre.

Veronica was employed by Central Slipper Company for many years, however, her most important and cherished job was being Nana, and she was “The Best.”  She was extremely proud of her family and enjoyed spending time with them around the dinner table.

In addition to her parents, Veronica was preceded in death by her husband Stephen, sister Mary Benz, and brother Frank Fertal.

Surviving are her daughter Joan Magdalinski and her husband Frank, Son James Ungvarsky, and Stephen Ungvarsky and his wife Theresa, grandchildren Michael and his wife Christine, and Linda Viteritti and her husband John, great-grandchildren Robert, Emily, and Ryan Viteritti, and Morgan and Mason Magdalinski, brother Rev. Joseph Fertal, SVD, sisters-in-law, Eleanor Ungvarsky and Mary Ungvarsky, several nieces and nephews. 

Veronica’ family would like to thank her caregivers, Mzia, and Maia, sisters Joseph Louise and Joseph Marie Magdalinski, and Dr. Joseph Radzwilka for their outstanding care and kindness.

Veronica’s Funeral Mass will be held Saturday at 11:00 am at St. Maria Goretti Church, 42 Redwood Drive  Laflin, PA  18702.  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 held in Sacred Heart Slovak Cemetery, Dallas.

 

Ruth O'Donnell Woehrle
Died May 3, 2013

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Ruth O'Donnell Woehrle, 93 of Abington Township, passed on Friday, May 3, 2013, after a brief illness at Abington Memorial Hospital in suburban Philadelphia.

Born in Wilkes-Barre,  Ruth was the daughter of the late Roger and Mary (Kane) O’Donnell and was a 50 year resident of Plains Twp.

Ruth was a graduate of James M. Coughlin High School, Class of 1936, and Marywood College, Scranton, Class of 1940, earning a Bachelor of Science degree.  A registered dietitian, Ruth led the dietetics department at Mercy Hospital and Wilkes-Barre General Hospital where she met the love of her life, Nelson, to whom she was married for 32 years. Her family and friends long admired her keen intelligence, sense of humor and devotion to her Catholic faith.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Nelson Christian Woehrle, MD, who practiced medicine for 58 years in Plains. She also was preceded by her son Daniel John Woehrle.

Ruth was the last surviving member of her generation of the O'Donnell family. She was preceded in death by sisters, Esther, Martha, and Jean and brothers Clement, Joseph, Justin, Roger and Ted.

She is survived by her sons Attorney Christopher Woehrle  and his wife Lann Salyard Woehrle, MD of Haverford; Attorney Lawrence Woehrle and his wife Nancy McNamee Woehrle of Wyncote; Nelson C. Woehrle and his wife Emmy of Rochester, New York, and daughter-in-law Catherine Wagman Woehrle of suburban DC.

She is also survived by ten grandchildren: Lauren, Roger, Grace and Kevin Woehrle all of Wyncote; Patrick, Cullen, Hillary, Jamie, and Nelson C. Woehrle III, all of suburban Washington DC; and Katie Woehrle of Honolulu, Hawaii.

Ruth’s funeral will be held Tuesday at 9:00 am at the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street  Plains, PA  18705 with a Mass of Christian Burial at 9:30 am in SS. Peter & Paul Church, 13 Hudson Road  Plains, PA  18705.  Interment will be held in Fern Knoll Burial Park, Dallas, PA.

Friends may call Monday evening from 7:00 to 9:00 pm at the funeral home.

 

Dr. D. Keith Ferrell
Died May 1, 2013

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Dr. D. Keith Ferrell, 62 of Wilkes-Barre City, passed away unexpectedly at home on Wednesday, May 1, 2013.

Born in Nashville, Tennessee, Keith was preceded in death by his parents Dr. Guy V. and Phyllis (Manera) Ferrell and his beloved Labrador Retrievers, Snickers and Brandy.

Dr. Ferrell was a graduate of Dallas High School, and Luzerne County Community College, where his father served as the first President of the College.  He received his bachelor’s degree from Wilkes University and his post graduate degrees from Marywood University.  In addition, he was one of the first Pennsylvania Certifications Board’s Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselors.  He was also a Certified Substance Abuse Professional (S.A.P.), an Internationally Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor and held a certificate of proficiency in the treatment of alcohol and other psychoactive substance use disorders from The American Psychological Association.

Dr. Ferrell was the founder and director of the Forensic Assessment and Counseling Unit at the Luzerne County Correctional Facility until 2003.  He worked in private practice with Ferrell and Associates, Inc.  since 1990, with offices in Wilkes-Barre and Hazleton. He was also the program director for Pennsylvania Institute for Rational Emotive Therapy and a Fellow and Certified Supervisor Associated with the Albert Ellis Institute, New York, NY, where he had worked as an associate professor.

Dr. Ferrell was an antique car enthusiast, motorcyclist, and banjo and guitar player.  He was also a skeet and clay shooting and indoor target shooting enthusiast.  He was one of the founding members of the Crossroadz Motorcycle Club, Frackville, PA, and also a member of the Nescopeck Hunting and Rifle Club, The PGA National Golf Club, and the Palm Beach Yacht Club.   He was also a member of the Irem Shiners Lodge No. 61.   

Keith is survived by his wife of 34, Marylee Brennan Ferrell, his beloved dog, Bella, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and many friends.

Funeral Services for Dr. Ferrell will be held Monday at 10::00 am in the Chapel of St. Mary’s Cemetery, 1594 South Main Street  Hanover Twp., PA  18706, followed by entombment in the cemetery’s mausoleum.  Friends may call Sunday from 2:00 to 4:00 pm at the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street  Plains, PA  18705.

 

Robert A. Novicenskie
Died April 30, 2013

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Robert A. Novicenskie, 72 of Laflin, passed away early Tuesday morning at his home after suffering a heart seizure.

Born in Shamokin and raised in Mt. Carmel, Bob was the son of the late Anthony & Mary (Lagerman) Novicenskie.

He was a graduate of Mt. Carmel Catholic High School, class of 1958, and was an Army Veteran of the Vietnam War serving from 1964 to 1966.  He was employed as a printer for The Item, Mt. Carmel, The Sunday Independent, and The Citizens’ Voice, both of Wilkes-Barre, until his retirement. 

Bob was devout catholic and a man of great faith.  He was a lifelong member of St. Maria Goretti Church, Laflin, where he was a Eucharistic Minister and a Sacristan.  He was also a Lector, was involved in the Christian Service and was in charge of the Altar Servers and the Sacristans.

He and his wife the former Marcia A. Mihalik celebrated their 44th wedding anniversary on April 19, 2013.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his infant grandson Benjamin Kane, and infant granddaughter Irena Kane.

Surviving in addition to his wife Marcia, are his daughters Pamela Kane and her husband Michael, Hanover Twp., Wendy Novicenskie and her husband Brad Williams, Hillsborough, NC, and Christine Kane and her husband Thomas, Hanover Twp., grandchildren Ryan Kane, Connor Williams, Zachary Kane, Katie Williams, Emily Kane, Brendan Kane, and Izabela Kane, sister Marilyn Holdren and her husband James, Danville, nieces & nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Friday at 12:00 pm at 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.  Friends are invited to go directly to church Friday afternoon. 

Interment will be held at the convenience of the family.

Friends may call Thursday evening from 5:00 to 7:00 pm at 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.

 

Bernard L. Frantz
Died April 26, 2013

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Bernard L. Frantz, 90, of Plains, past into God’s arms with his family by his side on Friday while a patient at Wilkes-Barre General Hospital.

Born June 17, 1922 in Kingston, he was the son of the late John and Anna (Steinkirchner)  Frantz. Bernard was a graduate of Kingston High School, Class of 1940, and enjoyed the old rivalry with his wife’s school, James M. Coughlin, especially on Thanksgiving.  His wife, the former Lillian Sisko, was the love of his life and they were inseparable. They enjoyed a long and loving marriage of 68 years usually holding hands and sharing loving glances.

Bernie was a devoted husband, father and worked long and hard for the good of his family.

Having served in World War II in Europe he returned home to work in the coal mines for Sindaco & Prospect Mine. He also worked in manufacturing, for Prudential Insurance and as a carpenter for Rudibon until he retired.

His voice was remarkable and he soloed at Madison Square Garden with Concordia in the 1950’s and 1960’s. He also sang solo’s in church and with the Knights of Columbus for several years. Bernie was a member of SS Peter & Paul Church Plains and was a member of the Holy Name Society and a Lector at Sacred Heart Church, Plains until its closing. He was a 4th degree Knight of Columbus, Assumpta Council 3987, Luzerne. His strong faith and devotion for the Blessed Virgin Mary and the Rosary were always evident to those who knew him. He often stated that his rosary got him thru the cold and danger during WWII where he served as an infantry man in the 42nd Rainbow Division under General George S. Patton in Rhineland and Central Europe.  While in the military he rose to the rank of Staff Sergeant serving with G2 Intelligence and was the only Non-Commission Officer in War Crimes Investigation leading to the Nuremberg Trials.

Bernie’s 6 grandchildren, 8 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great- grandchildren referred to him always as “Pop” and got big hugs and kisses from them; they were the joy of his life. Bernard & Lillian thru example always instilled a strong and enduring sense of family and belonging. Holidays and any reason to get together mattered most and they enjoyed card games on Sunday nights.
In addition to his Mother & Father, Bernie he was preceded in death by his Brothers John, Robert, & Carl, and Sisters Gertrude Grausam and Rita Slavinski.

Surviving  in addition to  his Wife Lillian are  his Son Dr. Bernard Frantz and his Wife Sandra, Plains; Daughter, Mariann McGroarty and her Husband Joseph, Plains; Grandchildren, Dr. Bernard E. Frantz and his Wife Susan, Shavertown; Wendy Nussey and her Husband Dr. Richard, Ocean City, N. J., Joseph A. McGroarty and his Wife Kathy, Arlington Va.,  Bernard A. McGroarty and his Wife Julie Anna, Hagerstown, Md., Mariann Jurista and her Husband Mark, Mountaintop; April McGroarty and her Fiancé Brian Godlewski, 8 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great-grandchildren and several nephews and nieces.

He will be remembered and missed forever by his family and Wife Lillian.
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 Sacred Heart Slovak Cemetery, Dallas, Pa.

Family and friends may call Monday evening from 5 to 8 pm at the Funeral Home.

Memorial donations if desired may be made to St. Joseph’s Center 2010 Adams Avenue, Scranton , PA  18509 or to St. Ann’s Basilica 1250 St. Ann Street Scranton,  PA  18504.

 

JEANNE H. CONWAY
Died April 25, 2013

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Jeanne H. Conway, 67 of Plains, Twp., passed away Thursday morning at her home.

Born in Wilkes-Barre, she was the daughter of the late Raymond and Mary (Barger) Herron.

Jeanne was a graduate of St. Mary’s High School, Wilkes-Barre, Class of 1963, and Wilkes-Barre Business College.

She was a homemaker all of her life, and was devoted to her husband, children, and grandchildren.

In addition to her parents, she was precede in death by her infant brother Kevin, brother Raymond Herron, sister Maureen Sulligan, and her twin sister Joan Robinson.

Surviving are her husband of 40 years, Patrick J. Conway, Daughters Mary Alice “Molly” Rosencrans, and her husband James, Wilkes-Barre, Colleen Casterline and her husband Donald, Mountain Top, and Patricia Conway, Plains, sons Patrick and Timothy Conway, at home, Brendan Conway, Wilkes-Barre, and Sheamus Conway, Wilkes-Barre, Twp., grandchildren Scott, Liza, and Nora Rosencrans, and Donald Casterline, nephews and nieces.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Monday at 9:30 am in Immaculate Conception Church, 605 Luzerne Avenue  West Pittston, PA  18643, with Monsignor John J. Sempa, pastor, officiating.  Friends and family are invited to go directly to church on Monday morning.

Interment will be held in Sacred Heart Cemetery, Plains, Twp.  Friends may call Sunday afternoon from 2:00 to 5:00 pm at the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street  Plains, PA  18705.

Memorial donations if desired may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project,  c/o https://support.woundedwarriorproject.org/ 

 

Joseph A. Greskiewicz
DIED APRIL 21, 2013

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Joseph A. Greskiewicz, 90 of Wilkes-Barre, and formerly of Plains Twp., passed away Sunday afternoon in the hospice unit at the Dept. of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Plains, Twp.

Born in West Wyoming, he was the son of the late Anthony & Mary (Silkowski) Greskiewicz.

Joe was a graduate of West Wyoming High School and was an Army Air Force Veteran of World War II, serving in the European theatre with the 764th Bomb Squadron, attaining the rank of Sergeant.

After World War II, he was employed as a coal miner in the area mines, as a salesman and worked for the Stegmaier and Gibbons Breweries of Wilkes-Barre.

He was a member of Our Lady of Hope Parish, St. Mary’s Maternity Church, Wilkes-Barre.  Joe was a man of great faith and the great treasure he had next to his family was his bible that he read every day.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 57 years the former Eva Yankowski on April 1, 2005, Sister Cecilia, brothers Frank, Stanley, Bolster, and Andrew.

Surviving are his daughter Janet Kruzlik and her husband Joseph, Hanover Twp., son Martin Greskiewicz and his wife Susan, Wilkes-Barre, grandsons Neil and John Greskiewicz, nieces and nephews.

Funeral will be held Friday at 8:45 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street  Plains, PA  18705, with at Mass of Christian Burial at 9:30 am in Our Lady of Hope Parish, St. Mary’s Maternity Church, 40 Park Avenue Wilkes-Barre, PA  18702.  Interment will be held in Mount Olivet Cemetery, Carverton section of Wyoming. 

Friends may call Thursday from 5:00 to 7:00 pm at the funeral home.

 

Anna M. Stubbs
Died April 21, 2013

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Anna M. Stubbs, 100, of Warrior Run, died Sunday morning at her home with her family by her side.

Born in Warrior Run, May 12, 1912, she was the daughter of the late Matthew & Josephine Shalanski. She attended Warrior Run schools and was employed as a seamstress in the local Garment Industry.

Anna was a member of Holy Family Church, Sugar Notch, and the International Ladies Garment Workers Union.

She was preceded in death by her husband William; Children William Stubbs, Carol Burrier, Nancy Romanowski. Brothers Anthony Shans, Benjamin Shulanski; Sister, Madeline Lollo; Granddaughter, Michele Stubbs and Grandson David Stubbs.

Surviving are her Grandchildren Sheila Mooney and husband Joseph with whom she resided; Richard Burrier and wife Debbie, Lisa Devaney and husband Tom, John Romanowski and wife Ruth, William Romanowski and wife Joyce, Rhonda Mock, Michael Stubbs, Debra Ward. Brother Joseph Shalanski, Weatherly Pa., Half-Brother and Sister, Victor Yanasheski and Lillian Sokoloski; 14 great-grandchildren; nephews and nieces.

Funeral will be held Thursday at 9:45 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street Plains, with a Mass of Christian Burial at Holy Family Church, Sugar Notch. Interment will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Hanover Township.

Friends may call Wednesday from 6 to 8 pm at the funeral home.

 

Leon J. Belles
Died April 21, 2013

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Leon J. Belles, 68, of Plains Township, died Sunday morning at the home of his daughter with his family by his side.

Born in Plains, he was the son of the late Paul and Helen (Kelly) Belles, and was a graduate of Plains Memorial High School class of 1964. Leon was an Army Veteran of the Vietnam War receiving the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with 2 Bronze Stars.  He was a member of the Plains American Legion, Joseph E. Conlon Post 558, Plains.

Leon was employed as a laborer until his retirement.

He was a member of Polish American Veterans, Henry Citizens Club, of Plains, Twp. and St. Benedicts Parish, Parsons.

Leon enjoyed Baseball and Basketball but his greatest Love was his Grandchildren.

Preceding him in death in addition to his Mother & Father was his Nephew, Jason McNeil.

Surviving are his Daughters Kimberly Belles of Wilkes-Barre and companion Thomas Regan Jr., and Tracy Ornoski and Husband Michael, Wilkes-Barre; Grandchildren Katie and Emily Dickson and Gavin Regan; Sisters and Brother, Dorothy Mazur, Wyoming; Richard Belles and Wife Betty Ann, of Suscon; Paulette Weeks and her husband Ray; Lorraine Giovannini and her husband Ted and Shirley McNeil and her husband Rodney all of Plains; Nephews and Nieces, Uncles and Aunts.

Funeral will be held Wednesday at 10:30 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street Plains with a Mass of Christian Burial at 11 am in St. Benedicts Parish St. Dominick’s Church, 155 Austin Avenue Parsons. Interment with Military Honors will be held in Chapel Lawn Memorial Park, Dallas.

Family and Friends may call Tuesday evening from 4 to 7 pm at the funeral home.

Memorial donations if desired may be made to St. Benedict Parish, St. Dominick’s Church,  155 Austin Avenue, Wilkes-Barre, Pa. 18702.

 

Mary W. Pappas
Died April 13, 2013

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Mary Wanda Pappas, 78, of Wilkes-Barre, died Saturday evening at Fairview Care Center, Philadelphia.

Born August 5, 1934 in Shickshinny, Mary was the daughter of the late Joseph and Wanda Elizabeth (Prymankiewicz) Delikat.  She was preceded in death by her husband, George R. Pappas.

Mary supported her family by working in a variety of manufacturing industries, such as making transistors for RCA, and later sewing in local clothing factories.  After retiring,  she sold a variety of crafts and other items at an Exeter flea market.
Mary was a member of Holy Cross Polish National Catholic Church, Wilkes-Barre.  She was an avid reader and enjoyed working with crafts.

Mary is survived by her son Steven Pappas and his wife Malia of Springfield, Virginia, Brother, William Delikat of Levittown, PA, sisters Patricia Mecir of Hazleton and Ann Wolfe of Bristol, PA, aunt Stella Kamon of Michigan, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Viewing will be held Wednesday morning for family and friends from 10:00  to 12:00 am at the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street  Plains, PA  18705.  Funeral services will be conducted at the Corcoran Funeral home, and will take place immediately after the viewing.  The Very Rev. Thaddeus Dymkowski, Pastor of Holy Cross Polish National Catholic Church, will officiate. Interment will be held in Oak Lawn Cemetery, Wilkes-Barre.

Memorial donations if desired may be made to Holy Cross Polish National Church, 23 Sheridan Street, Wilkes-Barre.

 

Jacqueline L. Budzinski
Died April 7, 2013

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Jacqueline L. Budzinski, 43 of Wilkes-Barre, passed away Sunday morning at the Wilkes-Barre General Hospital after suffering a brain aneurysm on Friday evening.

Born in Wilkes-Barre, she was the daughter of Theresa (Telencio) Budzinski of Plains, Twp., and the late Peter Budzinski, Jr.

Jacqueline attended G.A.R. High School, Wilkes-Barre, and was employed as a manager for Big Lots!, East End Center, Wilkes-Barre.  Jacqueline enjoyed spending time at the Mohegan Sun Casino, her place for enjoyment and relaxation.

She was preceded in death by her father Peter M. Budzinski, Jr., on April 29, 2011.

Surviving in addition to her mother Theresa Budzinski are her children Alicia Kandrac, Wilkes-Barre, Michael Budzinski, Plymouth, and Kevin Kandrac, Wilkes-Barre, husband Kevin Kandrac, Wilkes-Barre, grandchildren Katrina Budzinski, Michael Budzinski, Jr., and Amari Wade, Sister Catherine Kreidler, Plymouth.

Jacqueline’s wishes were to be an organ donor and give the gift of life to others who may benefit from her generosity.

Funeral Services for Jacqueline will be held Thursday at 7:00 pm at the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street  Plains, PA  18705.  Interment will be held at the convenience of the family.

Friends may call Thursday evening from 5:00 to 7:00 pm at the funeral home.

 

Walter F. Haczewski
Died April 8, 2013

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Walter F. Haczewski, 86 of Plains, Twp., passed away Monday morning at the Homewood at Plum Creek Nursing Home, Hanover, PA, where he had recently been a resident.

Born in Wilkes-Barre, PA, he was the son of the late John & Sadie (Friday) Haczewski.

Walter was a graduate of Plains Memorial High School, Class of 1944 and was a Navy Veteran of World War II, attaining the rank of Radioman 3rd Class.  Upon his discharge from the service at the end of World War II, Walter enrolled at Wilkes College, Wilkes-Barre, graduating in 1950 with a BS degree in Accounting. He was employed by Roth Novelty Co., of Wilkes-Barre as an accountant and company manager.

Walter was a devote Catholic and was a lifelong member of Sacred Heart Church, Plains, until it s merger with SS. Peter & Paul Church in 2010.  At Sacred Heart Church, he was a Eucharistic Minister and a Senior Acolyte.    He was a member of the Plains American Legion, Joseph E. Conlon, Post 558 for 63 years, and the AARP.  Walter also took great pride in his gardening skills.  His home and yard on North Main Street was always beautiful to the eye and always well manicured.  He and his wife Josephine loved to go on their “Polka Excursions” for days at a time.

He was preceded in death by his brother John Haczewski, sisters Sophie Baltusavich, Florence “Flossy” Haczewski, Stella Shatowskas, and Theresa Eveland. 

Surviving are his wife of 62 years the former Josephine A. Ferrara, sons John Haczewski and his wife  Mary Jo, Littlestown,  PA, Frank Haczewski and his wife  Suzanne, Kalispell, MT, Joseph Haczewski and his wife Donna, Gettysburg, PA and Walter Haczewski and his wife Janet, Oxford, PA,
10 grandchildren, 2 great-grandchildren, Brother Joseph Haczewski, Plains, and Sister Josephine Mahal in Levittown, several nieces and nephews.

Funeral Services for Walter will be held Thursday at 9:00 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street Plains, PA  18705, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 9:30 am in SS. Peter & Paul Church, 13 Hudson Road, Plains, PA  18705.  Interment with Military Honors by the Plains American Legion Funeral Detail will be held in Sacred Heart Cemetery, Plains. 

Friends may call Wednesday from 6:00 to 8:00 pm at the funeral home.

Memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Association, 57 North Franklin Street, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18701-1309 in Walter’s memory.

 

Rita M. Nesler
Died April 7, 2013

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Rita M. Nelser, 93, of Bear Creek, died Sunday morning at Little Flower Manor with her family by her side.

Born in Wilkes- Barre, she was the daughter of the late Thomas and Florence Rafferty Egan.

Rita was a graduate of James M. Coughlin High School, Wilkes-Barre, Class of 1938, was a homemaker all her life and was a faithful member of St. Elizabeth Church, Bear Creek.

Rita was preceded in death by her husband Emmett T. Nesler on October 5, 2010; also preceding her in death was her Brothers Jack & Thomas Egan and Sister Catherine Kopack.

Surviving are her Sister Ann Hannagan, Bear Creek; several Nephews and Nieces.

The family would like to thank the entire staff of Little Flower Manor for all the love and care they have given to Rita and all of her family.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held for Rita at the convenience of the family followed by interment in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Hanover Township.

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

 

Nicholas G. Rusenko
Died April 4, 2013

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Nicholas G. Rusenko, 48 of the Miners Mills section of Wilkes-Barre, passed away Thursday morning at the Wilkes-Barre General Hospital after suffering a seizure.

Nick was born in Wilkes-Barre, son of Catherine (Shovlin) Rusenko of Miners Mills, and the late Harry Rusenko.

Nick was a graduate of Elmer L. Meyers High School, Wilkes-Barre, and was employed at the VA Medical Center, Plains, Twp., and the Wilkes-Barre Area School District.  He was a member of Our Lady of Fatima Parish, St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception Church, Wilkes-Barre, where he was also a member of the Holy Name Society, served as an Eucharistic Minister, and was A Senior Acolyte. 

Nick loved to travel locally as well as abroad.  One of his happiest memories was traveling to Rome with his mother who was his most cherished person in the world.  Nick and Catherine could always be seen together, whether be at church, out to dinner, or just around town together.                           

He was preceded in death by his father Harry Rusenko on August 26, 2002, grandparents Capitola and Nicholas Rusenko and Abie and Bernard Shovlin, aunt Bernadine Johnson.

Surviving are his mother Catherine Rusenko, with whom he resided, Godmother Carol Rossi and her husband Don, several cousins.

Nick’s funeral will be held Monday at 8:45 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street  Plains, PA  18705 with a Mass of Christian burial at 9:30 am in St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception  Church, 134 Washington Street  Wilkes-Barre, PA  18703, with Monsignor Thomas V. Banick, pastor, officiating.   Entombment will be held in the parish cemetery, Hanover Twp.

Friends may call Sunday from   2:00 to 5:00 pm  at the funeral home.

Memorial donations may be made to St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception  Church, 134 Washington Street  Wilkes-Barre, PA  18703  in Nick’s memory.

 

Barbara M. Kozak
Died March 29, 2013

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Barbara M. Kozak, 48 of Plains Twp., passed away Good Friday, March 29, 2013 at Hospice Community Care, Geisinger South, Wilkes-Barre.

Born in Wilkes-Barre, she was the daughter of Sylvia (Stefanowicz) Kozak of Kingston, and the late Michael Kozak.

Barbara was a graduate of James M. Coughlin High School, Wilkes-Barre, Class of 1982 and Luzerne County Community College, Nanticoke, Class of 1992.  Barbara was a Navy Veteran, serving her country from 1984 to 1988 and was employed in retail management from various corporations.  Currently she was enrolled in college for a degree in hospital administration.

Barbara was a loving woman who had many hobbies and loves.  She enjoyed sewing and long walks, especially on the beach; family gatherings where she could socialize with the people she loved.  She enjoyed singing, dancing, and gardening, especially her roses.  She loved dressing up and being pampered and touched the lives of everyone she met.  Barbara left an impression on people, whether she knew you for years or just for a few minutes. 

Surviving are her daughter Lacey M. Silva, Harrisburg, mother Sylvia Kozak, Kingston, Fiancée John Pechal, Plains, brothers Michael Kozak, Pittsburgh, and Wayne Kozak, West Virginia, sisters Deborah McGuire and her husband Mark, Exeter, Michelle Syms, Plains, and Richelle Metzger and her daughter Nadia,  Mountaintop, several nieces & nephews.

Funeral Services with Military Honors will be held Saturday, April 6, 2013, at 10:00 am at the Back Mountain Harvest Assembly, 340 Carverton Road, Shavertown, PA  18708, with Rev. Jack Rahill, Pastor, officiating.  Interment will be 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 the Back Mountain Harvest Assembly, 340 Carverton Road, Shavertown, PA  18708.

 

Jean M. Shimshock
Died March 29, 2013

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Jean Marie Shimshock, 72 of Plains Twp., passed away Good Friday, March 29, 2013, at Hospice Community Care, Geisinger South, Wilkes-Barre, after a lengthy illness.

Jean was born in Plains, daughter of the late John & Helen (Falkowski) Kuzminski.

She was a graduate of Sacred Heart High School, Plains, Class of 1958, and Mercy School of Nursing, Wilkes-Barre.  Jean was employed as a Licensed Practical Nurse at St. Agnes Hospital, Baltimore, Maryland.  She was a member of SS. Peter & Paul  Church, Plains.

Jean was preceded in death by her husband of 51 years Matthew J. Shimshock, Jr., who passed away 9 ½ weeks ago on January 21.  Although we are saddened by our mother’s passing, we are comforted by her reunion with our dad in eternal life.

Jean is survived by son, David Shimshock and his wife Lisa, Plains; Daughter Donna Shimshock, Plains; Daughter Lisa Mimnaugh and husband Daniel, Jenkins Township;   6 grandchildren: Jade and Matthew Shimshock; Kasey and McKenzie McDonough, Madison and Grace Mimnaugh.  As well as great-grandchild Emily McDonough. 
Jean requested that her funeral services be private and held at the convenience of her family.  Arrangements by the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street  Plains, PA  18705.

 

Michael J. Costanza
Died March 26, 2013

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Michael J. Costanza, 59, of Laflin, Pa., passed away Tuesday evening at The University of Pennsylvania Hospital, Philadelphia.

Born in Ocean City New Jersey, he was the son of the late Nazzareno and Josephine (DeMatteo) Costanza and was a graduate of Holy Spirit High School, Abescon, New Jersey and attended the University of Scranton and graduated from Stockton State College, Galloway, New Jersey.

Michael was employed as Vice-President of Sales for McCarthy Tire of Wilkes-Barre and was very active in the community.

He was a member and former CEO of the Music Box Theatre, Swoyersville, Past President Wilkes-Barre Rotary where he was honored with the Paul Harris Fellow, highest award in Rotary, a member of the Bishop Hoban High School Parents Club and also served on the Advisory Council, coached Boys & Girls Basketball for St. Nicholas/St. Mary’s Elementary School, Varsity coach at St. Mary’s Assumption Elementary School,  and was Sports Club President of St Nichols Parish.
Michael served on the CYC Board of Directors, Big Brothers Big Sisters Board of Directors, and was a PIAA official and a member of the Board of Directors, He was President of the Coal Club of Philadelphia and was a finalist in the Times Leader Jefferson Award for Public Service.

Surviving are his wife of 34 years the former Jane Frank, Laflin, Daughter Lauren Haynes and her husband Alexander, Riverside, R.I., son, Michael F. Costanza, Philadelphia, Brothers Carmen Costanza and his wife Antoinette, Egg Harbor Twp. N. J., Thomas Costanza and his wife Kari, Federal Way, Washington, and Sister Barbara Riggione and her husband Ken,  Ocean City, N.J.,  several nephews and nieces, Father-In Law, Joseph Frank, Laflin.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Tuesday at 11 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.
Visitation will be held Monday evening from 4 to 7 pm in St. Maria Goretti Church  42 Redwood Drive  Laflin, PA  18702.

In Lieu of flowers Memorial Donations if desired may be made to the CYC of Wilkes-Barre c/o  36 South Washington Street  Wilkes-Barre, PA  18701 or Big Brothers Big Sisters c/o  33 E. Northampton Street  Wilkes-Barre, PA  18701.
Arrangements by the Corcoran Funeral Home Inc. 20 South Main Street Plains, PA  18705.

 

Louis C. O’Brien
Died March 26, 2013

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Louis C. O’Brien, 89 of Plains Twp., passed away Tuesday morning at the Wilkes-Barre General Hospital.

Louis was born March 22, 1924, the son of the late Eugene L. and Estar (Lamade) O’Brien in Williamsport, PA.  Louis attended schools in Camden, New Jersey and was a graduate of the University Of Notre Dame.  He served in the U.S. Navy as a Commissioned Officer (LT JG) during World War II. 

He was employed as a sales engineer in the electrical distribution business for G.E. and Annesco before retiring in 1989.

He was preceded in death by his son Timothy Patrick, sisters Phyllis Ayers, and Betty Bragg.

Surviving are his wife the former Lieselotte Werle, Plains, daughters Sharon O’Brien, Long Island, NY, and Debra Bonebrake, Waynesboro, MD, and his son Louis C. O’Brien, Jr., Harrisburg; grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Louis requested that there be no fuss over his departure and that his funeral services be private among his family members with interment in Indiantown Gap National Cemetery, Annville, PA.

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

 

Keith B. Maxwell
Died March 18, 2013

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Keith B. Maxwell, 51 of Wilkes-Barre, passed away Monday morning at his home.

Born in Wilkes-Barre, he was the son of the late Henry & Ruth (Phillips) Maxwell.

Keith was a graduate of G.A.R. Memorial High School, Wilkes-Barre, class of 1980, and Luzerne County Community College, Nanticoke.  Keith was a Licensed Practical Nurse and was employed as a Union Carpenter for Local 645, Scranton.  He was an Army Veteran of Operation Desert Storm, attaining the rank of SGT. 1st Class, serving with the 300th Field Hospital, Hanover, PA.

He was a member of the Polish Club, Hudson section of Plains, Twp., and was an avid hunter and fisherman.  Keith enjoyed spending time in his garden and was always on the lookout for a bargain while shopping.  He loved to watch football and was an avid Pittsburgh Steelers Fan.

Surviving are his son Jeffrey Maxwell, Pringle, Fiancée Patricia Krushnowski, Wilkes-Barre, former wife Michelle Maxwell, Pringle, Brothers Thomas Maxwell and his wife Barbara, Inkerman, Mitchell Maxwell  and his wife Sally, Hanover Twp., Kenneth Maxwell, Wilkes-Barre, sister Molly Gentile and her companion Barry Dervinis, Wilkes-Barre, grandson Alex Krushnowski, nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial with Military Honors will be held Saturday at 9:00 am at SS. Peter & Paul Church, 13 Hudson Road, Plains.  Friends are invited to go directly to church Saturday morning.  Interment will be held at the convenience of the family in Maple Hill Cemetery, Wilkes-Barre.

Friends may call Friday evening from 5 to 8 pm at the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street, Plains, PA  18705.

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

 

Elliot Riccetti
Died March 17, 2013

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Elliot Riccetti, 72, formerly of Pittston Township, died Sunday morning in the Hospice Unit, Regional Hospital of Scranton.

Born in the Browntown section of Pittston Township, he was the son of the late Joseph and Mary (Augustine) Riccetti and was educated in Pittston Township schools.

Elliot was a coal miner working in the area mines.

In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his Brother Edmund J. Riccetti and his Sister Eleanor Biscontini.

Surviving are his Sister in Law Jean Riccetti, Plains, Niece Debra Dominick, Harvey’s Lake, Nephews John Biscontini, Pittston and Mark Riccetti, Plains; Great Nephews and Nieces.

Funeral Services will be held Wednesday at 10:00 am at the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street Plains, PA  18705.  Interment will be held in the Italian Independent Cemetery, West Wyoming. 

There will be no calling hours.

 

Thomas E. Kustrin
Died March 16, 2013

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Thomas E. Kustrin, 91 of the Brookside section of Wilkes-Barre, passed away Saturday afternoon, March 16, 2013, at Commonwealth Hospice of Wilkes-Barre at St. Luke’s Villa, Wilkes-Barre, after a lengthy illness.

Thomas was born May 17, 1921 in Plains, Twp., the son of the late Edward and Frances (Hale) Kustrin. 

He was educated in Plains schools, and proudly worked in the Civilian Conservation Corps before enlisting in the U.S. Army in 1942.  He was an Army Veteran of World War II and was a Purple Heart recipient.  He was then employed at the VA Hospital until his retirement. 

He was a member of the Parish Community of North East Wilkes-Barre, St. Andre Bessette Parish.  Thomas played Semi-Professional baseball in the New Mexico Semi-Pro League and was an avid St. Louis Cardinal Baseball fan. 

He was preceded in death by his wife Marie (Bilski) Kustrin on December 14, 2002, his brother William Kustrin, sisters Marie Griffith and Elizabeth Roberts.

Surviving are his son Joseph Kustrin and his wife Colleen, Lehman, daughter Patricia DeAlba and her husband William, Plains, grandchildren Daniel DeAlba, Cody, Kylie and Noah Kustrin, Sister Margaret Alcorn, Cookville, Tennessee, several nieces and nephews.

The family would like to thank the staff of Riverview Ridge and Commonwealth Hospice for their devoted care of Thomas.

Funeral will be held Tuesday 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 St. Andre Bessette Parish, St. Stanislaus Kostka Church, North Main Street, Wilkes-Barre.  Interment with Military Honors will be held in Mount Olivet Cemetery, Carverton section of Wyoming.

Friends may call Monday evening from 6:00 to 8:00 pm at the funeral home.

 

Patrick J. Dalessandro
Died March 5, 2013

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Patrick J. Dalessandro, 89, of Plains Township, passed away Tuesday afternoon at Gino J. Merli Veterans Center, Scranton, where he had been a resident for the past year.

Born in Old Boston, Jenkins Township, he was the son of the late Joseph and Vincentina (Ciaccia) Dalessandro.

Pat attended Jenkins Township High School and was resident of Plains most of his life. 
He was an Army Veteran of World War II, serving with the 9th Infantry Division in the European Theatre of Operations. While engaging the enemy, he was wounded in combat and received the Purple Heart Medal.

He was employed as a truck driver for Just Trucking, Nachlis Furniture, and last for Gigliello Trucking until his retirement.

Pat was a member of SS. Peter & Paul Church, Plains.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 54 years the former Sara “Sadie” Ristagno on July 16, 2002, brothers Charles and James Dalessandro, sisters Mary Rowe, Philomina “Mamie” Murray, and Clara Trotta.

Surviving are his son Patrick Delasandro and his wife Ann Marie, Plains, daughter Jeanne Stine and her husband Bruce, Harvey’s Lake, grandchildren Annette Delasandro and her husband Ken Johnson, Wilkes-Barre, Patrick Delasandro, Pickerington, Ohio, and Andrew Delasandro and his wife Julie, Springville, NY, great-grandchildren Andrew, Matthew, and Addison Delasandro, several nieces and nephews.

Funeral will be held Monday at 9:00 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street Plains, PA  18705, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 9:30 am in SS. Peter & Paul Church, Plains.  Interment with Military Honors will be held in the Parish Cemetery, Plains.

Friends may call Sunday from 5:00 to 7:00 pm at the funeral home.

 

Mary Ann Kelly
Died March 4, 2013

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Mary Ann Kelly, 61, of Plains Township, died Monday evening at her home.

Born in Pittston, she was the daughter of the late Anthony Moncavage and Frances (Dougherty) Moncavage-Gilroy.

Mary Ann attended Plains Memorial High School and was mostly a homemaker all of her life and was employed as a seamstress for Leslie Fay of Plains.

Mary Ann was very talented and creative and loved to make crafts and homemade items for her family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband William Kelly on November 1, 2008; Sister Margaret Murphy on February 25, 2013; Brothers Tony and John Moncavage.

Surviving are her Son Michael Kelly, Kentucky and Daughter Kathy Kelly, Plains,            Grandchildren Robert, Samantha and Heather Troy; Sisters Patricia Stavinski, Lansdale, Frances Lewis and her husband Stephen, Upper Darby and Rose Dreabit and her Husband Robert, Plains; Nephews and Nieces.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Friday at 9:30 am in SS. Peter & Paul Church Plains. Friends and family are asked to go directly to church Friday morning.  Interment will be held at the convenience of the family.

Friends may call Thursday  evening from 6:00 to 8:00 pm  at the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc.,  20 South Main Street Plains, PA  18705.

 

Marian C. Spagnola
Died March 5, 2013

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Marian C. Spagnola, 90, of the Miners Mills section of Wilkes-Barre, died Monday afternoon at River Street Manor Nursing Home.

Born in the Parsons section of Wilkes-Barre, she was the daughter of the late Anthony and Natalie (Adamitis) Plioplis.

She was a graduate of James M. Coughlin High School, Wilkes-Barre, and was a lifelong member of St. Francis Church, Miners Mills. She was a member of St. Francis Choir and its Altar & Rosary Society.

Marian was employed for the Wilkes-Barre School District until her retirement.

She was preceded in death by her Husband of 68 years Robert L. Spagnola on May 26, 2012; Son Anthony and granddaughter Ann Marie; Sister Natalie Zehosky.

Surviving are her Daughters Mary Carol Spagnola, Plains; Terese Williams and Husband Ric, Montgomery, Pa. Grandchildren Brian and his Wife Linda; Michael, Scott, Melissa and Jessica Williams; Great-Grandchildren; Kelsey, Santino “Sonny”, Ruby and Eva Williams; Nephews and Nieces.

Funeral services will be held Friday at 6:00 pm  from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc. 20 South Main Street Plains. Interment will be held at the convenience of the family. 

Friends may call Friday afternoon from 4 to 6 pm at the funeral home.

Memorial donations if desired may be to the charity of one’s choice.

 

Elizabeth M. Clark
Died February 28, 2013

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Elizabeth M. Clark, 90, of Wilkes-Barre, and formerly of Ashuelot, New Hampshire, died Thursday at Mercy Center, Dallas.

Born in Fogelsville, Pa. she was the daughter of the late Samuel and Helen (Saba) Kasper.

Elizabeth was a graduate of Elmer L. Meyers High School and was employed for the Social Security until her retirement.

She was preceded in death by her Brothers Michael, David and Louis Kasper.
Surviving are her Sister Helen Kasper, Wilkes-Barre, Nephews and Nieces.
According to Elizabeth’s wishes Funeral Services will be private and 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.

 

Anne Marie Gurnari
Died February 28, 2013

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Anne Marie Gurnari, 74 of the Miners Mills section of Wilkes-Barre, passed away Thursday morning at St. Luke’s Villa, Wilkes-Barre.

Born in Wilkes-Bare, she was the daughter of the late Stanley & Marie (Hale) Zimmerman.

She was a graduate of James M. Coughlin High School, Wilkes-Barre, Class of 1955, and was employed as a seamstress for Leslie Fay, Plains Twp., Gail’s Fashions of Miners Mills, and for the Wyoming Valley Health Care System. 

She was a member of Blessed Sacrament Church, Miners Mills, and its Altar and Rosary Society, and a current member of St. Benedict Parish, Parsons; secretary of the Miners Mills Little League, and was a member of the Miners Mills Crime Watch.

She and her husband Alfred J. Gurnari celebrated their 52nd wedding anniversary on June 27, 2012.

She was preceded in death by her brother Jack Zimmerman.

Surviving in addition to her husband Al, are her children Nina Deno and her husband Lloyd, Ashley, Alan Gurnari, Wilkes-Barre, Patti Zendarski and her husband Bob, Glen Lyon, and Joseph “Jody” Gurnari and his wife Bobbi Jo, Hudson, 10 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren, sister Rita Mercado, Scranton, aunt Jule Novak, Kingston, nieces and nephews.

Funeral will be held Monday at 9:30 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street  Plains, PA  18705, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 am in SS. Peter & Paul Church, Plains.  Interment will be held in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Hanover Twp.  Friends may call Sunday from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Luke’s Villa, 80 E. Northampton Street  Wilkes-Barre, PA  18702.

 

Kenneth H. Dautrich, Jr.
Died February 27, 2013

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Kenneth H. Dautrich, Jr., 77 of Plains, Twp., passed away Wednesday afternoon at Commonwealth Hospice at St. Luke’s Villa, Wilkes-Barre.

Born in Reading, PA, he was the son of the late Kenneth H. and Jane (Driscoll) Dautrich. 

He moved to Berwick and was a graduate Berwick High School and Wilkes-Barre Business College.  Kenneth was an Army Veteran of the Korean Conflict serving from 1952 to 1956. 

He was employed for many years at Williams Bakery and retired from Stroehman’s Bakery and most recently worked at Pediatria, Wilkes-Barre. He was a former member of St. John the Evangelist Church, Wilkes-Barre, the North End Slovak Club, and was an avid Dodger Fan.  He touched the lives of all who knew him with his gentle ways and love for his family and friends.  He was always there for everyone.  His passing leaves a great void. We Love You, Bert!

He was preceded in death by his brother Daniel Dautrich.

Surviving are his wife of 54 years, the former Vicki Prebola , Plains, daughter Karen Chmielewski and her husband Rick, Wilkes-Barre, son Ken Dautrich and his wife Marybeth, Mansfield Center, CT,  grandchildren Jill DeAnthony and her husband Jeff, Shavertown, Kenny Dautrich, Philadelphia,  Allison Dautrich, CT,  great-grandchildren Katelyn, Jeffrey, Justin, and Abigail DeAnthony, sisters Joan Samsel and her husband Donald, Conway, SC, and Jean Markley and her husband John Sauquoit, NY, brother Tom Dautrich and his wife Joan, Lancaster, sister-in-law Joanne Dautrich, Berwick, many nieces & nephew.

Funeral Services will be held Saturday, March 16, 2013 at 11:00 am at the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street, Plains, PA  18705.  Interment will be held in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Hanover Twp., at the convenience of the family.  Friends may call from 10:00 am till 11:00 at the funeral home the morning of the services.

In Lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Memorial donations may be made to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network  2141 Rosecrans Avenue  Suite 7000 El Segundo, CA  90245.

 

Margaret “Maggie” Murphy
Died February 25, 2013

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Margaret “Maggie” Murphy, 68 of Plains, Twp., passed away Monday morning at Geisinger Wyoming Valley, Plains, Twp., after a courageous battle with Leukemia, with her family at her side.

Born in Pittston, she was the daughter of the late Anthony S. Moncavage and Frances (Dougherty) Moncavage Gilroy.

Maggie was educated in Pittston Area schools and was a graduate of McCann School of Business.  Maggie was employed as a seamstress for Leslie Fay, Plains, Twp., and for Kranson Clothes, Wilkes-Barre, until her retirement.  She was a member of SS. Peter & Paul Church, Plains.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 39 years, William “Murph” Murphy on January 4, 2011, son Timothy Murphy, and her brothers Tony and John Moncavage.

Surviving are her children Susan Price and her husband Kenneth, Plains, Mary Frances Rinehimer and her husband Eric, Kingston, Karen Roxby and her husband Daryl, Plains and Patrick Murphy and his wife Missy, Spanish Fort, Alabama, Grandchildren Jolene Price, Timothy Young, Kenny Price and Cody and Kiersten Rinehimer, sisters Mary Ann Kelly, Plains, Patricia Stavinski, Lansdale, Frances Lewis and her husband Stephen, Upper Darby, and Rose Dreabit and her husband Robert, Plains, 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 Sacred Heart Cemetery, Plains. 

Friends may call Thursday from 5 to 8 pm at the funeral home.

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

 

Theresa A. Holub
Died February 24, 2013

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Theresa A. Holub, 82 of Plains, Twp., passed away Sunday evening at her home.

Born in Plains, she was the daughter of the late Michael & Ann (Ference) Sierko.

Theresa was a graduate of Plains Memorial High School, and was employed as a waitress for the Plains American Legion, Joseph E. Conlon, Post 558, for 28 years.  She was a member of SS. Peter & Paul Church, Plains.

She was preceded in death by her twin brother John Francis Sierko, sister Nellie Malachefski, and her sister-in-law Florence Sierko.

Surviving are her husband Edward P. Holub, with whom she would have celebrated 60 years of marriage with on April 25, 2013, son Edward Holub, Jr., and his wife Lee Ann, Luzerne, grandchildren Courtney Kotarski, and Justin Kotarski and his wife Nicole, great-grandsons Hunter and Gavin Kotarski, brother Stanley Sierko, Plains, 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 held in the parish cemetery, Plains.

Friends may call Wednesday from 5 to 8 pm at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to SS. Peter & Paul Church, 13 Hudson Road  Plains, PA  18705.

 

Sadie T. Guerra
Died February 21, 2013

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Sadie T. Guerra, 88, of the Hilldale section of Plains Township, passed away Thursday morning at Grand View Hospital, Sellersville, Pa.
Sadie was born in Hilldale on November 1, 1924 and was the daughter of the late Rinaldo and Maria (Venturini) Guili.

Sadie was a life resident of Plains and prior to her retirement worked in the local garment industry working for J&R dress for 28 years.
She was a member of SS.Peter & Paul Church Plains and the International Ladies Garment Workers Union.

Sadie was preceded in death by her Husband of 63 year Albert Guerra; Brothers, Louis and Levio Guili and her Sister Louise Parrino.

Surviving are her Daughter Paulette “Penny” Petro and her Husband Robert, Souderton, Pa., Grandchildren Rob Petro and his Wife Wendy, Doylestown; Robyn Malone and her Husband Dr. Stephen, Wilmington, Delaware; Great-grandchildren Stephanie, Tyler and Trent Petro; Maddie, Meghan and Matthew Malone; Sisters, Eleanor Ciechowski, Alhambra California; Linda Leonardi, Apple Valley California and Lillian Burtner, Maricopa, Arizona; Several nephews and nieces.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Monday at 9:30 am in SS. Peter & Paul Church, Plains. Family and friends are asked to go directly to SS. Peter & Paul Church Monday morning. Interment will be in the Italian Independent Cemetery, West Wyoming.
Friends may call Sunday from 4 to 6 pm at the Corcoran Funeral Home Inc. 20 South Main Street Plains.

In lieu of flowers donations if desired may be made to the Grand View Hospital Hospice 700 Lawn Avenue Sellersville, Pa. 18960.

 

 

Charles P. Yurgaitis
Died February 19, 2013

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Charles P. Yurgaitis, 89 of Plains, Twp., passed away Tuesday afternoon at Golden Living Center, East Mountain Manor, Plains, Twp.

Born in Wilkes-Barre Township, he was the son of the late Charles & Frances (Sadauskas) Yurgaitis.

Charles was educated in Wilkes-Barre Township Schools, and was an Army Veteran of World War II.  He was employed for Muskin Pools in Customer Service or 25 years until his retirement.  He was a member of the Plains American Legion, Joseph E. Conlon, Post 558.

He was preceded in death by his wife the former Jean Rehrig, brothers Joseph and John Yurgaitis, sisters Eva Yacalavitch, Catherine Salvage, Anna Skuba, Frances Pissott, Mary Yurgaitis, Elizabeth Mikush, and Marcella Jenkins.

Surviving are his son Charles Yurgaitis and his wife Mary, Hanover Twp., grandchildren Brandi and Charlene, great-grandchildren Sabrina, Dasani, and Rodney, beloved companion Stella Dudzik, with whom he resided, niece Mary Yaple, several nieces and nephews.

Funeral Services for Charles 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.

 

Joseph P. Barba
Died February 19, 2013

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Joseph P. Barba, 71 of the Browntown section of Pittston Twp., passed away Tuesday morning at his home with his family by his side after a courageous battle with Pancreatic Cancer.

Born in Pittston, he was the son of the late Joseph and Nellie (Dominick) Barba.

Joseph was a graduate of Pittston Township High School, class of 1959, and served in the United States Army Reserve.  He was employed for Topps Chewing Co., Mauer & Scott, Pittston, and for Wyoming Valley Blasting Co., Plains, until his retirement. 

He was a member of St. Joseph Marello Parish, William Street, Pittston.

He was preceded in death by his brothers Charles Barba, Sr. and Alfonso Barba, Sisters Sara Milazzo.             

Surviving are his wife of 47 years the former Joan J. Bonanni, daughters Rochelle Meek and her husband Michael, Rio Rancho, New Mexico, and Sue Ann Shamnoski and her husband William, Pittston, son Joseph A. Barba and his wife Nettie, Exeter, grandchildren Joseph Preston Barba, Matthew Shamnoski,  Steven Shamnoski, and Morgan Jane Meek, sister Josephine Cordora, Pittston, and brother Frank Barba, Albany, NY, several nieces and nephews.

Joseph’s family would like to thanks the oncology department of Geisinger Medical Center for their care and support and Celtic Home Care for their wonderful care of Joseph.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Friday at 9:30 am in St. Joseph Marello Parish, William Street, Pittston.  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 Celtic Home Care  C/O    325 Wyoming Avenue  Kingston, PA  18704.

 

Mary (Langan) Sulla
Died February 17, 2013

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Mary (Langan) Sulla, 56, of Inkerman, passed away Sunday morning at Geisinger Wyoming Valley, Plains Township, after suffering a heart attack at home.
Born in Inkerman, she was the daughter of the late Thomas and Mae (Gorman) Langan.

Mary was a graduate of St. John’s High School, Pittston and was employed in the finance department of Nabisco Corporation until her disability.
She was a member of St. John The Evangelist Church, Pittston.
Mary was preceded in death by her Sister Ann Langan on January 8, 2005.
Surviving are her husband Angelo Sulla, with whom she shared 24 loving years of marriage with, Inkerman; Sons Christopher and Thomas Sulla, at home.

Family and friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial, Thursday, February 21, 2013, at 9:30 am in St. John the Evangelist Church Pittston. Memorial donations if desired may be made to the SPCA of Luzerne County C/O Fox Hill Road, Plains, Pa.
Arrangements by the Corcoran Funeral Home Inc. 20 South Main Street, Plains, Pa.

 

Peter E. Dziedzic
Died February 14, 2013

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Peter E. Dziedzic, 81, formerly of Miners Mills, passed away peacefully Thursday afternoon at Commonwealth Hospice, St. Luke’s Villa, Wilkes-Barre, with his family by his side.

Born in the Miners Mills section of Wilkes-Barre, he was the son of the late Peter and Eva (Bomba) Dziedzic.

Pete attended James M. Coughlin High School, Wilkes-Barre, and was an Air Force Veteran of the Korean Conflict and also served in the Connecticut National Guard.  He was employed as a welder for Foster-Wheeler of Mountaintop and Air Products of Wilkes-Barre, until his retirement, and was a member of SS. Peter & Paul Church, Plains.

He was preceded in death by his wife the former Mary Ann Olsakowski in 1988, brothers Benjamin, Edward, and Chester Dziedzic, sisters Mary Kroll, and Sophie Czernota.

Surviving are his daughter Karen Marie Johns, Dallas, grandson William Peter Johns, Pringle, sisters Stella Cybulski, Hudson, Theodora Golden, Wilkes-Bare, many 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 SS. Peter & Paul Church, Plains.  Interment will be held in the parish cemetery. 

Friends may call Monday from 5 to 7 pm at the funeral home.

 

Dolores J. Baldrica
Died February 14, 2013

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Dolores J. Baldrica, 69 of Plains, Twp., passed away Thursday morning, February 14, 2013 at Smith Nursing Care, Mountaintop.

She was born February 18, 1943 in Plains, daughter of the late Joseph & Rena (Grassi) Baldrica.

Dolores enjoyed playing the accordion and the piano.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister Pauline and her brother Frank Baldrica, and her best friend Evelyn MacAfee.

Surviving are her sisters Phyllis Shillabeer, Kingston, and Rena Mong, Blackwood, New Jersey, several nieces and nephews.

Funeral Services for Dolores will be held Monday at 11:00 am at the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street, Plains, with Rev. Marty Garms, Pastor of the East End Primitive Methodist Church, Officiating.  Interment will be held in the Italian Independent Cemetery, West Wyoming.  Friends may call Monday morning from 10:00 am till 11:00 am at the funeral home.

 

 

Florence J. Yencho
Died February 3, 2013

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Florence J. Yencho, 80, formerly of Plains Township, died Sunday, February 3, 2013 at Little Flower Manor, Wilkes-Barre.

She was born in Wilkes-Barre and resided in Plains, Twp., for most of her life.  She was the daughter of the late Charles and Mary (Lewan) Skierski.

Florence attended Plains Township schools and worked at various manufacturing jobs in the Wilkes-Barre area. 

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sisters Anne Kudcey and Stephanie Mikula, and by her brother-in-law Rudolph (Ray) Mikula.

Surviving are her daughters Jill Yencho, Plains, Kandace Evans and her husband William, Mountaintop, and Denise Pipkin and her husband Stephen, San Antonio, Texas, grandchildren Amanda and Billy Evans, brothers Frank Skierski and his wife Helen, Endicott, New York, and Stanley Skierski and his wife Margaret, Plains.  Also surviving are her nieces Deborah Wargo, Shelia Bucci, and Roxanne Barden, nephews Randy Mikula and Frank Skierski, great-nieces Carissa Wargo, Jessica and Sarah Skierski, great-nephews David Skierski and A.J. and Matthew Bucci.

Florence’s family would like to thank the Carmelite Sisters and the staff of Little Flower Manor, especially the nurses and aides of the second floor who cared for out mother.

A  Mass of Christian Burial will be held Friday at 1:00 pm in the Chapel at Little Flower Manor, 200 South Meade Street  Wilkes-Barre, PA  18702.  Those attending are asked to go directly to the chapel Friday morning.  Friends may call from 12:00 pm till the time of mass on Friday morning at the chapel.  Interment will be held in St. Joseph’s Cemetery, Hudson section of Plains, Twp.

In lieu of Flowers, memorial donations may be made to Little Flower Manor.

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

 

 

Myrtle Lee Raggi
Died February 3, 2013

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Myrtle Lee Raggi, 73 of the Parsons section of Wilkes-Barre, passed away peacefully Sunday morning at her home with her family and friends beside her.

Born in Augusta, Georgia, she was the daughter of the late William and Addie Lee (Fletcher) Harpley.

She was a graduate of Richmond Academy, Augusta, GA, and was a homemaker and mother all of her life.

Myrtle Lee was preceded in death by her husband Serafino John Raggi on October 5, 1989, and her brother Verdy Delano Blackwell.

Surviving are her daughters Grace Starrie and her husband Bill, Hunlock Creek, Denise Bernatovich, and her husband Bob, Shickshinny, sons John Raggi and his wife Dawn, Bear Creek, and Serafino Raggi and his wife Virginia, Plymouth Twp., grandchildren Laura Lynn Colleran and her husband Jay, Ian Richard Starrie, Jennifer Lee Lewis and her husband Rich, John Raggi, Jr., Montana Marie Raggi, Serafino Raggi, Jr., and Willow Raggi, great-grandchildren Hailey Marie Colleran, Jay Jay Colleran, and Madison Elizabeth Lewis,  brother William Fredrick Harpley, Jr., Augusta, Georgia, sisters Clara Harpley Hill, and Daisy Jean Abbott, both Berkeley Springs, West Virginia.

In accordance with Myrtle Lee’s wishes, her funeral services will be private and reserved for her family.  Rev. James Quinn, Pastor of the Immanuel Baptist Church, Edwardsville, will officiate.  Her interment will be held in Chapel Lawn Memorial Park, Dallas.  Arrangements by the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street  Plains, PA  18705. 

Memorial donations may be made in Myrtle Lee’s memory to the Association for the Blind  1825 Wyoming Avenue  Exeter, PA  18643, or to Hospice Community Care  601 Wyoming Avenue  Kingston, PA  18704.

 

 

Lottie Silvi
Died January 29, 2013

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Lottie Silvi, 98 of Plains Twp., passed away Tuesday morning at the United Methodist Homes, Wesley Village Campus, Jenkins, Twp., where she had been a resident for the past three months.

Born in the Hudson section of Plains, she was the daughter of the late Stanley & Mary (Novak) Benczkowski. 

Lottie attended Plains Township schools and was employed as a Trimmer in the garment industry.  She was a member of SS. Peter & Paul Church, Plains, and the I.L.G.W.U.

She was preceded in death by her husband Sesto Silvi on September 22, 1985, and her son John “Cy” Silvi on July 17, 2000, her brothers Joseph and Frank Benczkowski.

Surviving are her daughter Cecelia Phillips and her husband Ronald, Plains, 6 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, daughter-in-law Eileen Silvi, West Wyoming, sisters Isabelle Neishell, Hudson, Johanna Kalinosky, Kingston, Helen Rinkevich, Breaslau, Felicia Bellanco, Pittston, and Marie Sperazza, West Pittston,  brother Stanley Benczkowski, Hudson, several nieces and nephews.

The family would like to thank the staff of Wesley Village and especially Heather and Kelly for their wonderful care of Lottie.

As per Lottie’s wishes, her funeral services are to be private and reserved for her family only.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Friday at 10:00 am in SS. Peter & Paul Church, Plains.  Interment will be held in Sacred Heart Cemetery, Plains. 
Private family viewing will be held Friday morning from 8:00 am till 9:30 am at the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street  Plains, PA  18705.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the SS. Peter & Paul Church Food Pantry, 13 Hudson Road  Plains, PA  18705, in Lottie’s memory.

 

 

Joseph Michael Falchek
Died January 20, 2013

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Joseph Michael Falchek, 39 of Plains, Twp., passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, January 20, at Geisinger Wyoming Valley, Plains, PA.

Born in Plains on June 7, 1973, he was the son of Joseph C. and Jacqueline (Stanley) Falchek of Plains.

Joe was a graduate of James M. Coughlin High School, Wilkes-Barre, Class of 1992, and also Misericordia University, Dallas, where he earned an Associate Degree in Applied Science and received the “Rho Tau” Award in the study of radiologic technology.  He was employed by Geisinger South Wilkes-Barre, as a certified radiology technician since 1995.

Joe had a love for automobiles, and was especially proud of his prized Corvette.  He was also an avid NASCAR enthusiast and loved spending time with his niece and nephews.  He was a member of the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents Clement and Lottie Falchek and Michael and Rose Stanley. 

Surviving in addition to his parents are his sisters Jennifer Falchek, Plains, and Janeen McKenna and her husband John, Middletown, DE, brother Jeffrey Falchek and his wife Meredith, Kingston, niece and nephews Jeffrey and Riley Falchek, Jacqueline and Jason McKenna.

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 held in St. Mary’s Byzantine Cemetery, Plains. 

Friends may call Tuesday evening from 5 to 8 pm at the funeral home.

Memorial donations may be made to the Children’s Miracle Network at Geisinger, 100 North Academy Avenue Danville, PA  17822-5020, or to Geisinger Foundation in support of Radiology Tech Education in memory of Joe Falchek C/O GSWB Administration  25 Church Street  Wilkes-Barre, PA  18702.

 

Matthew J. Shimshock, Jr.
Died January 21, 2013

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Matthew (Matt) J Shimshock, Jr, 74 of Plains passed away on Sunday, January 21th surrounded by family.  He was born, raised and attended schools in Plains.  He was the son of the late Matthew J and Cecilia (Walsh) Shimshock.  He graduated from Plains Memorial High School, class of 1956.
Following graduation, he served in the United States Marine Corps for 2 years.  After his military service, he attended King’s College.  He had a distinguished career in the consumer finance industry for over 35 years.  He started his career in 1961 with General Acceptance Corp (GAC) in the Baltimore area.  In 1970, he returned to Plains and became a vice-president, Area Manager for GAC and continued his career with Finance America and NationsCredit.  He was responsible for territories in Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey and New England.  He retired in 1998.

Matt was very active in the local sports scene and in youth sports in Plains Township.  He was a coach and an officer for the Plains Little League for years. He also coached and was an integral part in the early years of the Plains Yankees Youth Football organization.   An avid golfer most of his life, Matt was a long-time member of the Wyoming Valley Country Club.  While he was an active golfer, he looked forward to the annual golf trips to either Myrtle Beach or Florida with his friends.  It was during these trips that he would get enjoyment just being around his buddies to laugh, eat and drink.  In his later years, he would frequent “the club” to play cards and enjoy the company of friends regularly.  He was a member of the Coughlin High School Booster Club as well.  He was a frequent patron at Pattes Sports Bar for years and was a member of the Sportsmen’s Club.  During that time, the club made numerous trips to New York City as well as other venues for sporting events which he truly enjoyed.  He always came back from the trips with at least 1 great story to share with everyone. 

He loved to have conversations about football and sports in the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s.  He could discuss former area sports stars with anyone and loved to talk about the “old days” when his father was a coach at Plains High School.  Matt was a huge Notre Dame fan and he made the trip to South Bend on a number of occasions.  He loved watching old war movies and was a great fan of any John Wayne movie.

After retirement, he also enjoyed attending sporting events, especially those that involved his grandchildren. He loved going to college football games to watch his grandson as well as Soccer games and Track & Field Meets to watch his granddaughters.  He loved to be surrounded by his family and friends.  To him, nothing compared to being with his children and grandchildren during the holidays and other occasions.

His ability to tell stories, make people laugh and make people feel valued were unmatched.  He was the type of person that others were drawn to because of his personality and genuine care that he felt for others. He was a constant presence in Plains Township for many years.  He will be greatly missed by those that knew him and called him a friend. 

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Margaret Mary.  He was a member of SS Peter and Paul Church, Plains.
He is survived by his devoted wife the former Jean Kuzminski.  Matt and Jean recently celebrated 51 years of marriage on December 30th.  In addition to his wife, Matt is survived by son, David Shimshock and his wife Lisa, Plains; Daughter Donna Shimshock, Plains; Daughter Lisa Mimnaugh and husband Daniel, Jenkins Township; Sister Barbara Peck and husband Walter, Moosic.
Matt is also survived by 6 grandchildren: Jade and Matthew Shimshock; Kasey and McKenzie McDonough, Madison and Grace Mimnaugh.  As well as great-grandchild Emily McDonough.  Matt adored his grandchildren and they adored him as well.

Matt’s family would like to thank all of his friends over the years for the enjoyment they brought to his life.  They would also like to recognize and thank the numerous doctors, nurses and medical personnel that extended his time on earth.

Funeral services for Matt 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 9:30am in SS. Peter & Paul Church, Plains.  Interment will be held in the Parish Cemetery, Plains.

Friends may call Wednesday from 5 to 8 pm at the Funeral Home.
Memorial donations may be made to the American Diabetes Association 71 North Franklin Street, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18701.

 

 

Catherine M. Kasaba
Died January 18, 2013

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Catherine M. Kasaba, 94, of Plains Township, died Friday morning at the inpatient unit of Celtic Health Care, Geisinger South, Wilkes-Barre.

Born in Plymouth, she was the daughter of the late Peter and Nellie (Govler)   Markiewicz.

Catherine was educated in the Plains Township schools and was a homemaker all her life.  She was a member of SS. Peter & Paul Church, Plains.

Preceding her in death was her husband Joseph on July 25, 1962 and also her brothers; Edward, Joseph, Leo and William Marko: Sisters Sophie Kunec, Mary Sivahop, Josephine Yastremski and Emma Sabol and Son in law Donald Pachucki Sr.

Surviving are her son Raymond Kasaba and his wife Kitty, Plains; Daughters Joan Chimer and husband Joseph, Wilkes-Barre; Irene Pachucki, Wilkes-Barre;  Bernardine (Debbie) Hughes and husband Robert, Duryea and Jenny Kasaba Plains; Sister, Anna Westawaski, Pittston; 11 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren and 6 great great grandchildren,  several nephews and nieces.

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 the Parish Cemetery.

Friends may call Sunday 2 to 5 pm at the Funeral Home.

Memorial donations if desired may be made to SS. Peter & Paul Church, 13 Hudson Road, Plains, PA  18705  in Catherine’s memory.

 

 

Robert A. Gregor, Sr.
Died January 8, 2013

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Robert A. Gregor, Sr., 63 of Plains, Twp., passed away Tuesday afternoon at the Wilkes-Barre General Hospital, after suffering a Heart Seizure at home.

Born in the Hudson section of Plains, he was the son of the late Clayton and Elizabeth (Gregor) Neville.

Bob was a graduate of Plains Memorial High School, class of 1967, and was employed for King Fifth Wheel of Mountaintop as a machinist and for the United States Post Office as a Postal Clerk until his retirement.

He was an avid New York Yankees fan and an avid outdoorsman. He was a former Plains Yankee Football coach, and also coached Plains Little League and Plains Teener League Baseball.  Bob has a special place in his heart for his three grandsons.  They were the Light of his Life and he enjoyed spending every moment with them.  Bob also had a special love for his Cocker Spaniel friends.

The family would like to thank Dr. Jeff DeAndrea and Dr. Kevin Carey for their wonderful care of Bob throughout the years.

He was preceded in death by his sister Denise Everett.

Surviving are his wife of 37 years the former Diane Wallace, sons Robert Gregor, Jr. and his wife Melissa, Dallas, and W. Michael Gregor and his wife Mary, Plains, grandsons Maxwell, Declan, and Robert George Gregor, brother Arthur Neville and sister Bernice “Bunny” Neville, both of Ashley.

Funeral Services for Bob will be held Saturday at 9:30 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street, Plains.  Interment will be held in Memorial Shrine Burial Park, Carverton section of Wyoming.  Friends may call Friday from 5 to 8 pm.

Memorial donations may be made in Bob’s Memory to Plains Yankee Football or to Plains Little League Baseball.

 

Thomas L. Snee, Sr.
Died January 7, 2013

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Thomas L. Snee, Sr., 77 of Wilkes-Bare, passed away January 7, 2013, peacefully at home after a courageous battle with cancer.

He was born July 6, 1935 in Wilkes-Barre Township.  He was the son of the late Joseph and Mae (MacAdara) Snee.

He retired in 2009 from construction work, and most recently he was employed by Wyoming Valley HealthCare.

He was a longtime member of St. Therese Church, Wilkes-Barre, and participated in the church choir and coached for many years for the St. Therese Little League.  His greatest joy was spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren.

Tom is survived by his wife of 55 years, the former Beatrice “Dolly” Morgans, sons Thomas L. Snee, Jr. and his wife Ann, Northumberland, PA, and Brian Snee and his wife Diane, Luzerne, daughters Mary d. “Dotty” Reid and her husband Francis, Baldwinsville, NY, and Michelle Ostrander, Manlius, NY, grandchildren Meghan, Michael, and Shawn Reid, Abbi, Becca, and Anna Snee, Catherine, Morgan, and Jillian Ostrander, Katie and Riely Snee, brothers Joseph and Donald Snee, Bel Air, MD, William and James Snee, Wilkes-Barre Township, sisters Mary Pat Sherman, Cranberry Township, PA, and Nancy Snee, Wilkes-Barre Township, several nieces and nephews. 

The family would like to thank Celtic Hospice Care for their loving kindness and compassion.

Funeral will be held Friday at 9:15 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street Plains, PA  18705, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 am in St. Robert Bellarmine Parish, St. Aloysius Church, Wilkes-Barre.  Interment will be held in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Hanover Twp.

Friends may call Thursday from 5 to 8 pm at the funeral home.

 

Mary R. Buckman
Died January 4, 2013

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Mary “Jean” “Nana” Buckman, 81 of Dallas and formerly of Wilkes-Barre, died Friday morning at the meadows Nursing Center, Dallas.

Born in Tresckow, she was the daughter of the late Frederick and Mary Mooney Banks.

Jean was a graduate of James M. Coughlin High School, Wilkes-Barre and was employed as a Nurse’s Aide and last was associated with the former Charles Spellman Funeral Home, Wilkes-Barre.

Jean loved being with her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren and spending time at Harvey’s Lake and was very devoted to St. Jude.

Preceding her in death was her son Tommy Buckman on September 7, 2004 and brother Bernard Banks and Brother-in Law John Mendusky.

Surviving are her sons; Michael and his wife Kathy, Wilkes-Barre, Frederick and his wife Dana, Dallas and  William and his wife Susan, Shavertown; Grandchildren; Michael, Melissa, Kerri, Andrea, Kevin, Rachel, Laura, Maya and Olivia; great-grandchildren; McKayla, Kamryn, Liam, Emma and Gavin;  Sisters, Pat Mendusky, Wilkes-Barre; Marilyn Suhanich and husband Bob, Wilkes-Barre and Judy Noll and husband Gilbert, Shavertown; sister in law Nancy Banks, Wilkes-Barre; several nephews and nieces.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Tuesday at 10 am in St. Therese’s Church, Shavertown.  Interment will held in St. Mary’s Cemetery Hanover Township. There will be no calling hours.

Arrangements are entrusted to the Corcoran Funeral Home Inc. 20 South Main Street, Plains.

Memorial donations in desired may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital  332 North Lauderdale  Memphis, Tennessee  38105

 

Levio J. Grilli
Died January 4, 2013

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Levio “Butzie” Grilli, 93 of the Hilldale section of Plains, passed into heaven on Friday morning at River Street Manor, Wilkes-Barre.

Born in Hilldale, he was the son of the late John B. and Josephine (Berrettini) Grilli.

Levio was a graduate of Plains Memorial High School, Class of 1938, where he excelled in baseball, football, and wrestling.  He was a  Pennsylvania All State Wrestler in 1938.  He attended a baseball training camp for the New York Giants in 1939.  Levio also coached baseball and football for many years.

Prior to retirement, he was employed as a machinist at Yates Electric, West Wyoming, and last for the Wilkes-Bare Area School District.

He was a member of the Christian Apostolic Church, Plains, and a member of the Plains Sports Hall of Fame, inducted in 1991.

Preceding him in death are his brothers Domero and Angelo; sisters Lena Palmaioli, Violet Surma, Arnesta Grilli, and Marie Moskal, and infant brother Angelo.

Surviving are Levio’s wife of 63 years Baldina (Nati) Grilli, Hilldale, son Dr. Joseph J. Grilli and his wife Lisa, Jenkins Twp., daughter Lynn Grilli Gilroy and her husband Leo, Kingston, grandchildren Dr. Christopher J. Grilli and his wife Dr. Jennifer, Kaitlyn Grilli, Liam Gilroy, great grandson Maxwell Levio Grilli, sister Emma Esopi, Hilldale, many beloved nephews and nieces.

The family would like to thank the staff of Celtic Hospice (Hospice Community Care) and River Street Manor for their excellent and compassionate care.

Funeral will be held Monday at 9:30 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street, Plains with Services to be held at 10:00 am in the Christian Apostolic Church, Plains, with Reverend David Fischi, Officiating.  Interment will be held in the Italian Independent Cemetery, West Wyoming.    Friends may call at the Funeral Home Sunday from 2:00 to 5:00 pm.

Memorial donations can be made if desired to The Christian Apostolic Church  757 North Main Street  Plains, PA  18705.

Joseph “Rock” Stahovic
December 30, 2013

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Joseph “Rock” Stahovic, 67 of Bear Creek Twp., passed away Monday morning, December 30, 2013, at his home.

Born in Wilkes-Barre, he was the son of the late Joseph Anthony and Martha (Figler) Stahovic.

Rock was a graduate of James M. Coughlin H.S., Wilkes-Barre, Class of 1964, and was an Army Veteran of the Vietnam War.  Following his Honorable discharge from the Army he was employed as a Heavy Diesel Mechanic and a Generator Technician for Cleveland Brothers for 23 years until his retirement.  He was a member of the Wilkes-Barre Twp., American Legion, Post 815.

Rock was an avid guitar player who loved his Fender guitars and playing music with his friends whenever he could.  He had a true affection for his 1976 Harley Davidson and enjoyed the outdoors, especially hunting and fishing.  He also was active in many dart leagues throughout the Wyoming Valley.  Rock would not miss going to see his grand kids at their sporting events whether it was wrestling, cheerleading, tee ball, soccer, field hockey or football, his grand kids meant the world to him.  He loved spending time with his family vacationing in the Caribbean and Virginia Beach and enjoying a few cold ones with his friends.

He and his wife the former Carol Smacher, would have celebrated their 46th wedding anniversary on January 27, 2014.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister Martha Barrett.

Surviving in addition to his wife Carol, are his daughter Lori Chase and her husband Matthew, Bear Creek Twp., son Rock Stahovic and his wife Robyn, Plains, Twp., grandchildren Ashley and Matthew Chase, and Tait and Teague Stahovic, sisters Andrena Pacholyk and her husband John, Jordan, NY, and Melody Stahovic, Wilkes-Barre, nieces & nephews.

Funeral Services for Rock will be held Friday evening, January 3, 2014, at 7:00 pm at the Plains United Methodist Church, 133 North Main Street  Plains, PA  18705, with Rev. Paul Amara, Pastor, officiating.  Interment will be held at the convenience of the family.

Friends may call Friday evening from 5:00 pm until the time of service at the church.

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

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to The Plains United Methodist Church  133 N. Main Street  Plains, PA  18705 or to Valley With a Heart Benefits  7 Alden Road
Nanticoke, PA  18634 or on the web at www.valleywithaheart.com.

 

Anthony J. Alapick, Jr.
December 24, 2013

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Anthony J. Alapick, Jr., 66 of Luzerne, passed away Christmas Eve at his home.

Born in Luzerne, he was the son of the late Anthony J. and Frances Jean (Polancheck) Alapick, Sr.

Anthony graduated from Luzerne High School, and was an Army Veteran of the Vietnam War.

Surviving is his sister Francine Alapick.

Graveside services will be held Tuesday at 10:00 am  in St. Ignatius Cemetery, Pringle.

 

Eric Joseph Speicher, Jr.
December 23, 2013

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Eric Joseph Speicher, Jr, 14, passed away on Monday Evening, December 23rd, surrounded by his loving family at his home after a valiant 2 1/2 year fight with brain cancer.
    
Eric was born on July 30, 1999 in Plains, to Eric and Jessica (Stella) Speicher. He attended Cookie Corner Pre-School and Wyoming Area School District. He was involved in Wyoming Area Youth Basketball, manager of the Wyoming Area Freshman boy’s basketball team and member of the Wyoming Area Student Council. He was also a West Pittston Little League athlete and a West Pittston Rams B-Team Super Bowl champion. As a member of Corpus Christi Parish, he participated in the Youth Group and was an alter server.
    
We will remember Eric as having the kindest heart and being very gentle and loving. He battled his illness as he did in life with the strength, courage and bravery that few possess. Eric loved being on a baseball field in his catcher's gear, playing street hockey with his friends, going to the Deli and having many adventures in New York City, especially Times Square.
    
Eric was preceded in death by his paternal grandfather, Alfred Speicher, Sr. great-grandparents, great aunts and uncles.
    
He is survived by his parents, Eric and Jessica, Brother Chase, Grandparents Denis and Rosalie Cullagh, Donald and Dorothy Stella and Pat and Anne Cawley, Aunt Jennifer, Uncle Mike, Tyler Marie, Michael, Caden, and Krea Bonita, Aunt Cristina and Uncle Rich Praefke and Uncle AJ, Aunt Deanna, Jacob, and Nicholas Speicher and his furry companions Papi & Rufus.
    
Many heartfelt thanks to our families, friends, extended West Pittston families and all of Eric's many friends who were with him every step of the way. Special gratitude is extended to all of his doctors, nurses, and healthcare workers at the Pediatric Day Hospital at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, especially Dr. Michael LaQuaglia for his friendship, concern and support. Our sincere appreciation to Dr. Ralph DeMario, Marissa, Cindy and staff at Hospice of the Sacred Heart. Monsignor Sempa held our hearts and our hands on every step of Eric's journey. We are forever grateful for his endless kindness.  Eric will forever be remembered in the hearts of his loving parents, brother, grandparents, aunts and uncles, cousins, many friends and especially his best friend and 1st cousin, Mikey.

Family and friends are invited to attend a Memorial Mass for Eric on Friday, December 27, 2013 at 10:00 am in Corpus Christi Parish, Immaculate Conception Church, Luzerne Avenue, West Pittston. There will be no calling hours.
 
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to MSKCC Department of Pediatrics 1275 York Avenue  New York, NY 10065 and St. Jude Children's Research Hospital  262 Danny Thomas Place  Memphis, Tennessee 38105. 

 

Donald T. Tregaskis
December 17, 2013

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Donald T. Tregasis, 89, of Plains Township, died Tuesday evening, December 17, 2013 at the Wilkes-Barre General Hospital.

Born in the Miners Mills section of Wilkes-Barre, he was the son of the late  Charles and Nettie (Atkinson) Tregaskis.

Donald was an Army Veteran of World War II, and was formerly employed for Anthracite Foundry and Machine Co. of Plains whose company constructed the Statue of Jesus Christ that sits atop of King’s College on River Street. Donald was last employed for Muskin Manufacturing until his retirement.

In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his Brother William.
Surviving are his Wife the former Marion Dunsmuir, Plains; Sons, Donald Jr. and wife Tina, Florida; Thomas and Wife Amphawan, Nevada and David and Wife Bernadette, Plains; Grandchildren; Thomas,  Jonathan, Tracey, Tara, Joanne, Billy, Connie and Jackie; Nephews and Nieces.

Funeral services for Donald will be held Saturday at 11 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home Inc. 20 South Main Street Plains, with Rev. Dr. Paul Amara, Pastor of the Plains United Methodist Church, Officiating.

Interment will be held at the convenience of the family in Memorial Shrine Cemetery, Carverton.

Friends may call Friday afternoon form 3 to 5 pm.

 

Patricia Ann Mulligan
December 16, 2013

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Patricia Ann Mulligan, 69 of Silver Spring, Maryland, passed away Tuesday, December 16, 2013 at her home.

Born in Wilkes-Barre, she was the daughter of the late Charles J. and Margaret Mary (Shovlin) Cawley.

Patricia was a graduate of Plains Memorial High School and Wilkes-Barre General Hospital School of Nursing  and was employed as a nurse for Montgomery County, MD.

Surviving are her husband William E. Mulligan, Silver Spring, Md.; son William Michael Mulligan, Silver Spring, Md., and Shannon Lee Mulligan, Olney, Md.; grandchildren Chase Mulligan and Blake Johnson, sister Catherine Moran, Carbondale and brother Neil Cawley, Keyser, West Virginia.

Funeral will be held Saturday at 8:30 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street  Plains, PA  18705 with a Mass of Christian Burial at 9:00 am in SS. Peter & Paul Church, 13 Hudson Road  Wilkes-Barre, PA  18705.  Interment will be held in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Hanover Twp.

Friends may call Friday from 6:00 to 8:00 pm at the funeral home.

Memorial donations may be made to Montgomery Hospice Society, 1355 Piccard Drive, Suite 100, Rockville, MD  20850.

 

FRANK BERNARD KUSIAK
December 13, 2013

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Frank Bernard Kusiak , 91, passed away on Friday, December 13, 2013, in Orlando, Florida, where he had been residing since 2005.  Born on March 5, 1922, in Plains, Pennsylvania, he was the son of the late Frank J. and Josefa (Szweda)  Kusiak.  Frank’s older brother, Joseph, passed away on September 22, 1992. 

Prior to moving to Orlando, Frank was a lifelong resident of Plains Twp., attending SS. Peter and Paul Church School, and graduating from Plains Memorial High School in 1940.  While attending Wilkes-Barre Business College he met Anna Yurkanin who became his wife on September 14, 1946, and who preceded him in death on March 3, 2002. 

Together they raised their six children: Mary Jo Kusiak, with whom he resided in Florida; Frank J. Kusiak(Toni), Orlando; Michael Kusiak(Robbin), Ronan, Montana; Barbara Kusiak Fitzpatrick(Mike), Austin, Texas; Ann Marie Kusiak(Jeff Griffith), Altamonte Springs, Florida;  and Ellen Kusiak Eachus(Todd), Drums, Pennsylvania.  In addition, Frank is survived by grandchildren, Sean Kusiak, Valencia, CA; Katie Fitzpatrick, NY, NY; Michael Fitzpatrick, Los Angeles, CA; Anthony Eachus, Drums, PA; Ben Eachus, San Francisco, CA; Nathan Eachus, Kansas City, MO; Paul Metzger III(Dawn), Mount Joy, PA; Michael Metzger(Diana), Orlando, FL; and great grandchildren, Paul and Adam Metzger; and Kiley Metzger, as well as a large extended family of nieces and nephews, in-laws and exes; he loved us all.

Next to God and family, Frank loved servicing refrigeration equipment most.  Prior to retiring, he was employed for over 20 years by Topps Chewing Gum Co., in Duryea, PA, most recently as the chief refrigeration service engineer. 

A veteran of World War II and the Korean Conflict, Frank served in the U.S. Army, primarily as a dental laboratory tech sergeant, but went to the European front near the end of the war in 1945.

A generous man in all ways, he donated 15 gallons of blood throughout his adult life, with the last one being given in his 85th year.  He encouraged everyone who could to donate blood also. He also worked for many years as a volunteer transporter at the Veterans Hospital under the Retired Seniors Volunteer Program.  Shoveling snow and baking cookies for neighbors and friends were two of Frank’s favorite activities.
A lifelong member of SS. Peter and Paul Church in Plains, PA, Frank was a member of its Holy Name Society and served as president for many terms.  He also was a 41 year participant in the Wyoming Valley Laymen’s Retreat League, following in his father’s footsteps after his father’s death in 1963. He served as its secretary for many years until 2004.

While in Orlando, he was also a member of St. Maximilian Kolbe Catholic Church, a new parish where he attended its very first Mass in 2006.  He was also able to experience Christmas Midnight Mass outdoors under the stars and Easter Mass outdoors at sunrise, for the first time at ages 86 and 87 respectively.
Funeral will be held Wednesday at 9:00 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home Inc., 20 South Main Street  Plains, PA  18705 with a Mass of Christian burial at 9:30 am in SS. Peter and Paul Church, 13 Hudson Rd., Plains, PA.  Interment with Military Honors will be held at Mount Olivet Cemetery, Carverton section of Wyoming.  Friends may call Tuesday from 5 to 8 pm at the funeral home.   

In lieu of flowers, please send a contribution in Frank’s memory to Cornerstone Hospice Foundation, 8009 South Orange Ave., Orlando, FL 32809.

 

Peter Segeda, Sr.
December 11, 2013

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Peter Paul Segeda, Sr., 72 years old, passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday December 11, 2013.

Born April 26, 1941 in Pittston, he was the son of the late Peter & Lena (Augustine) Segeda.  He was a graduate of Jenkins Township High School and served in the U.S. Marine Corps for 6 years.  He was a long time resident of New Jersey where he worked as a master machinist at Bristol-Meyer Squib for 40 years.  He retired to North Mountain in Muncy Valley to his beloved cabin that be built himself.  Peter enjoyed hunting, fishing, and spending time with his family (and his special dogs Monti and Oscar).

Preceding him in death in addition to his parents are his sister Geraldine Lombardo and brother Joseph Segeda.

Surviving are his wife Carole, whom he married in 1988, 8 children, Lee Ann, Kimberly, Peter, Christine, Denise, Phil, Eugene, and Jeffrey, 11 grandchildren, Michael, Jennifer, Melissa, Carl, T.J., Gregory, Steven, Samantha, Logan, Gene, and Sara, and 8 great-grandchildren, sister Judi Soska and her husband Frank, and brother James and his wife Jackie. 

Friends may call Friday, December 13, 2013 from 4:00 to 7:00 pm at the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street  Plains, PA  18705.  Peter requested to be cremated after his viewing and his inurnment to be held at the convenience of his family.

 

 

Clara T. Yanushefski
December 10, 2013

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Clara T. Yanushefski, 90 of the Hilldale Section of Plains, Twp., passed away Tuesday morning, December 10, 2013, at Commonwealth Hospice, St. Luke’s Villa, Wilkes-Barre.

Born in Shenandoah, she was the daughter of the late Joseph & Mary Ann (Melecki) Paruch.

Clara was a graduate of Shenandoah High School, a home maker, and assisted her husband “Major” at Curley’s Bar, Hilldale.

She was a member of SS. Peter & Paul Church, Plains.

She was preceded in death by her husband Matthew “Major” Yanushefski on July 9, 1989, brothers Walter and Joseph Paruch, and sister Dorothy Paruch.

Surviving are her son Matthew Yanushefski, Brooklyn, New York, daughter Denise Dubis and her husband Mark, Lakewood, Ohio, granddaughter Victoria Dubis, brother John Paruch, Shenandoah, and niece Diane Paruch.

Funeral will be held Friday at 9:00 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street Plains, PA  18705, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 9:30 am in SS. Peter & Paul Church, 13 Hudson Road, Plains.  Interment will be held in St. Joseph’s Cemetery, Hudson section of Plains.

Friends may call Friday morning from 8:15 am till the time of service.

Memorial donations may be made to SS. Peter & Paul Church 13 Hudson Road  Plains, PA  18705 or to Commonwealth Hospice  C/O 80 E. Northampton Street  Wilkes-Barre, PA  18701 in Clara’s name.

 

Leonard D. DeMarco
December 7, 2013

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Leonard DeMarco, 72, of Pittston, passed away Saturday, December 7th, 2013 at Wilkes-Barre General Hospital.

Born January 13th, 1941 in the Browntown section of Pittston Township, he was the son of the late Angelo Charles and Mary (Tarullo) DeMarco.

He graduated from Pittston Township High School, Class of  1958 and joined the Army Reserve. After an honorable discharge, Len worked at the Pittston Apparel as a sewing machine mechanic. He also worked in numerous areas such as construction, plumbing, and repairs. Most recently, Len worked as a driver for Wyoming Valley Motors, where he was able to enjoy driving, which he always loved to do.

Len was a longtime member of the Italian American Citizens Club. He also enjoyed spending his free time at the track, watching the horses run.

Preceding him in death is his ex-wife, Judi D’Andrea.

Surviving are his daughter, Cyndi Spagnuolo and her husband, Jack, and sons, Leonard and his wife, Nadine, and Kevin and his wife, Edjane. He is also survived by his grandchildren and loves of his life, Tia Marie, Gabrielle, and Danielle Spagnuolo, Emilee and Mia DeMarco, and Amber and Michael DeMarco. Also surviving is his sister Josephine Nesgoda, and brothers, Charlie DeMarco and his wife, Elaine, and Nick DeMarco and his wife, Mary Lou, along with numerous nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial for Len will be held on Wednesday, December 11th at 10 AM at St. Therese’s Church, Shavertown, with Father James J. Paisley, Pastor, officiating.  Interment will be held at the convenience of the family.  Friends are asked to go directly to church on Wednesday morning.

Friends may call Tuesday evening from 5 to 8 pm at the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street  Plains, PA  18705.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the donor’s choice.

 

 

Herbert J. Flowers      
Died December 1, 2013

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Herbert J. Flowers, 87, of Plains Township, died Sunday afternoon at Golden Living Center - East Mountain, Plains.

Born in Anderson Indiana, he was the son of the late Herbert and Anna May (Lemon) Flowers. He was preceded in death by his Wife of 61 years the former Josephine Sobol on October 7, 2013.

He is survived by his Three Sons.

Funeral will be held at the convenience of the family from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., Plains, PA.

Memorial donations if desired may be made to Blue Chip Farm Animal Refuge, 974 Lockville Road, Dallas, Pa., 18612.

 

Peggy L. Dorang
November 22, 2013

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Peggy L. Dorang, 68, of Hanover Township, died Friday evening, November 22, 2013, at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center at Presbyterian Hospital after a long illness.

Born and educated in Luzerne, she was the daughter of the late Paul Brown and Margaret (Whitson) Brown Zambo and Joseph Zambo.

She was an active member of Firwood Methodist Church having served on its board of trustees.  She volunteered with CEO, at the FM Kirby Center for the Performing Arts and at the John Heinz Institute.  She was a member of the Heather Highlands Red Hats.  She enjoyed traveling and spending time with her family.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister Beverly Reese, brother Daniel Brown and niece Debra Jordan.

She is survived by her loving companion of over 25 years, Silas Blaine of Hunlock Creek, son Joseph III, Wilkes-Barre, son Paul and wife Darlene of Union Dale, PA, daughter Catherine and husband James of West Pittston and son Christopher and wife Yarelis Hernandez of League City, TX. 

She is also survived by her grand children Paul, Jr., Jonelle, Bridget, Joseph IV, Andrew and Matthew Dorang and James, Jr. and Thomas Rose. 

She is further survived by her siblings Paul Brown, Jeanette Lorenzetti, Gail Brown and Joseph Zambo.

The family would like to thank the nursing and respiratory therapy staff at UPMC for their loving and professional care throughout Peggy's 515 days in the hospital following double lung transplant.  The family is especially grateful to Dr. Joylin DeLuna for providing exceptional care and support to both Peggy and her family.

Funeral services will be at 9:00 am Wednesday from Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main St, Plains, PA  18705.  Interment will be held in Memorial Shrine Burial Park, Carverton.  Friends are invited to visit on Tuesday evening from 5:00 to 7:00 pm at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that any donations be made in Peggy's name to Family House, 5001 Baum Blvd, Suite 545, Pittsburgh, PA 15213.

 

John S. Siudock
November 18, 2013

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John S, Siudock, 85, of Plains Township, died Tuesday afternoon at Geisinger Medical Center, Plains.

Born in Plains he was the son of the late John and Catherine Siudock and attended SS. Peter & Paul  and the Plains Township schools.

John was an Army veteran of WWII and was employed and a painter until his retirement. He was a member of SS. Peter & Paul Church Plains and was a life member of the Triangle Club of Miners Mills.

He was preceded in death by his infant son Michael; Brother, Myron Siudock and Sister, Helen Chabala.

Surviving are his Wife of 64 years the former Anna (Seneski) Siudock, Sons, John, Plains and Joseph and his wife Elizabeth, Port Orange, Florida; Daughter, Mary Ann Gibbon and husband, Rodney, Plains, grandchildren, Bernadette Siudock and Jacob and Nicholas Gibbon, brother Stanislav Siudock, Warsaw, Poland, nephews and nieces.

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 the Plymouth Independent Cemetery, West Wyoming.

Friends may call Wednesday from 6 to 8 pm at the funeral home.

 

Dorothy T. DeAnthony
November 5, 2013

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Dorothy T. DeAnthony, 91, of the Hudson section of Plains Township, passed away Tuesday, morning, November 5, 2013 at St. Luke’s Villa Wilkes-Barre.

Born in Plains, she was the daughter of the late Otto and Elizabeth (Mattick) Binker.

Dorothy attended Sacred Heart School in Plains and was employed as Housekeeping Manager of the Host Motel for many years and was a waitress at the Victory Pig in Wyoming for over 50 years, until her retirement.

She was a member of SS.Peter and Paul Church, Plains, The Ladies of Charity, a former member of Sacred Heart Church and its Choir, and the Traveler Bowling Club.

She was preceded in death by her husband Victor DeAnthony on July 17, 1975; brothers Joseph and Francis Binker and sisters, Elizabeth “Betty” Catani and Infant sister Mary Binker.

Surviving are her son, Victor DeAnthony and his wife Marlene, Plains; daughter Dorothy Jean Evans and her husband Daniel, Arnor, N.C.; 5 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great granddaughter; sisters Julia Beretta, Montrose, and Mary Drew, Hudson, brothers, Otto Binker, New Cumberland, Pa., Paul and John Binker, Hudson; numerous nephews and nieces.

Funeral will be held Friday at 9:00 am form 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 Sacred Heart Cemetery, Plains.

Friends may call Thursday evening from 5 to 8 pm at the Funeral home.

 

Rose D. Paul
November 5, 2013

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Rose D. Paul, 92, formerly of the Hudson section of Plains Twp., passed away Tuesday morning at her home with her family at her side.

Born in Plains she was the daughter of the late John and Mary (Wassil) Pollock.
Rose attended Plains Township schools and was a homemaker all her life. She was a member of Sacred Heart Slovak Church, Wilkes-Barre. Rose’s children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren were the light of her life.

She was preceded in death by her husband Louis Paul on June 24, 2001 and Brothers George Pollack and infant brother Jack Pollack.

Surviving are her daughters; Pat Stella and husband Carl, West Pittston; Karen Derolf and husband Barry, Trucksville; Grandchildren; Nicole Fasulka and husband Chris; Brian Derolf and wife Amanda, Corrin Fisher and husband Duane; Great-grandchildren; Hailey and Hunter Derolf and Reece and Aubrey Fisher, brothers Bob Pollock, Florida, and Al Pollock, New Jersey.

The Paul family would like to Thank Hospice of the Sacred Heart and Dr. Robert Engel for all of the excellent care and comfort they have given to Rose and all the family.
In accordance with Rose’s wishes, her funeral services will be private and 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.

Memorial donations may be made to Hospice of the Sacred Heart  600 Baltimore Drive  Wilkes-Barre, PA  18702 in Rose’s memory.

 

 

Frances L. “Fran” Day
November 1, 2013

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Frances L. “Fran” Day, 68 of Wilkes-Barre, passed away Friday evening, November 1, 2013, at her home.

Born in Newark, New Jersey, she was the daughter of Albert Lescavage of North Arlington, N.J., and the late Celia (Budzeika) Lescavage.

Fran was a graduate of Edwardsville H.S., and was employed as a security Guard at Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center, Plains, Twp., for 25 years until her retirement.

Fran was a member of the American Legion Auxiliary, Post 558, Plains, The Fraternal Order of Police, and was an Ordained Minister of the Universal Life Church.

She was preceded in death by her mother Celia (Budzeika) Lescavage.

Surviving in addition to her father Albert are her aunts and uncles, friend Barbara Shane, Taylor, Mark and Joanne, with whom she had coffee with daily, and numerous friends.

Funeral Services for Fran will be held Friday at 7:00 pm at the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street  Plains, PA  18705, with Rev. Mark Desilva, Pastor of the Living Hope Bible Church, Plains, officiating.  Interment will be held at the convenience of the family.

Friends may call Friday evening from 5 to 7 pm at the funeral home.

Memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society, 712 S. Keyser Avenue, Taylor, PA 18517   

 

Daniel R. Green, Sr.
October 24, 2013

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Daniel R. Green, Sr., 73 of Wilkes-Barre, passed away Thursday morning October 24, 2013, at Geisinger Wyoming Valley, Plains, Twp.

Born in Wilkes-Barre, he was the son of the late Daniel & Margaret (Knorr) Green.

Danny attended St. Nicholas School, Wilkes-Barre and was employed as a roofer, by Consolidated Cigar, Pittston, as a maintenance man for Bishop Hoban High School, and as a security guard at Pocono Downs, Plains, Twp.

He was a member of the Donegal Society of Wilkes-Bare, The P.A.V and the Hudson Servicemen’s Club, both of Hudson, The L.A.N.I V.F.W, Irishtown, V.J.’s Hideaway’s Dart & Pool League, Plains, was an active member in Miners Mills Little League Baseball, a former member of the Plains Lion Club, was active at the Blessed Sacrament Church and Bishop Hoban High School Bazaars. 

He was preceded in death by his wife the former Margaret Rose “Cookie” Coffay on April 12, 1999, son Daniel R. Green, Jr., on September 27, 2013, sister Margaret Bolton, and brother Thomas Green.

Surviving are his daughters Catherine (Kelly Green) Belch and her husband, 1st Lieutenant Daniel C. Belch, USAF (Ret.), Noreen Green and her husband Bill Reiser, all of Wilkes-Barre, Theresa Young and her husband Brian and Maureen Dessoye, all of Plains, son William Berkowitz, Sr., Wilkes-Barre,  grandchildren William, Edward, and Jonathan Berkowitz, Rebecca Belch, Clint Thompson, Jr., Patrick, Thomas, Dylan, Danielle, and Daniel Green, III, and Tiffany Young, brother Robert Knorr and his wife Betty, Kingston, sister Mary Rinehimer and her husband Lonnie Wapwallopen, nieces and nephews.

Funeral will be held Monday at 9:30 am at the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street  Plains, PA 18705, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 am in St. Benedict’s Parish, St. Dominic’s Church, 155 Austin Avenue  Wilkes-Barre, PA  18705.  Interment will be held in St. Nicholas Cemetery, Shavertown, at the convenience of the family.

Friends may call Sunday from 4 to 7 pm at the funeral home.

 

 

Thomas M. Zaboraski
October 13, 2013

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Thomas M. Zaboraski, 66 of Dallas, passed away October 13, 2013, at his home.

Born in Wilkes-Barre, he was the son of the late Frank and Mary Zaboraski, brother of the late Frank Zaboraski, and the foster son of the late Carl & Lydia German.

He was a Marine Corps Veteran of the Vietnam War.  Surviving is his niece Erma Zaboraski.

Graveside services were held in St. Nicholas Cemetery, Shavertown.  Arrangements by the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street, Plains, PA.

 

Mary Eileen (Conway) Williams
October 20, 2013

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Mary Eileen (Conway) Williams, 78 of Plains Twp., passed away Sunday October 20, 2013 at the Wilkes-Bare General Hospital.

Born in Taylor, she was the daughter of the late James & Alice (Corcoran) Conway.

Mary Eileen was a graduate of Elmer L. Meyers High School and worked as the bookkeeper at the Hollywood Shop in Wilkes-Barre.

In 1960 she married her beloved husband, Donald Williams and moved to Philadelphia.
She was a member of St. John the Baptist Church and served as a Eucharist Minister for many years.  She was very active in her church and community activities.  Mary Eileen was an avid gardener and loved to have lots of flowers surrounding her.

She moved back to Plains where she spent much of her childhood after the death of her husband.  Mary Eileen was a wonderful wife, daughter, sister, aunt, and friend to all who knew her.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband Donald Williams on February 3, 2000, brother William Conway, sister Alice (Conway) Morrow, and infant brothers John and Patrick Conway.

Surviving are her brothers and sisters James Conway, Bridget Komnath, John Conway, Joseph Conway, Thomas Conway, Patrick Conway, Judy Paralis, Irene Kelly, and Michael Conway, numerous nieces and nephews.

Funeral will be held Thursday at 9:00 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, 20 South Main Street Plains, PA  18705, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 9:30 am in SS. Peter & Paul Church, 13 Hudson Road, Plains, PA.  Interment will be held in Sacred Heart Cemetery, Plains. 

Friends may call Wednesday from 5 to 8 pm at the funeral home.

 

 

John A. Moran, Sr.
October 20, 2013

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John A. Moran, Sr. “Red”, a life resident of Miners Mills went to rest with his beloved wife, AnnJuan this past Sunday, October 20, 2013.  John was born July 11, 1925 in Miners Mills, son of the late James A. and Beatrice (Manley) Moran.
    
John was a graduate of James M. Coughlin High School and was a veteran of World War II serving in the U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Marines for 4 years from which he earned the Merchant Marine Emblem Pacific War Zone Bar, Emblem, Honorable Service, Victory Medal, Presidential Testimonial Letter and was the Atlantic Coast All Service Middle Weight Boxing Champion.  Afterwards, he graduated from Penn State University with a degree in Machine Production & Tool Design and went on to earn his Master’s Degree in teaching from Temple University.

John worked the family business, Moran & Flynn Ornamental Iron until it closed in 1966 and then became a Sheet Metal & Welding teacher at West Side Vocational School for 25 years.

One of John’s proudest accomplishments was being founder of “Free Movies for Children” for the Miners Mills Civic League.  John was mini football coach for Miners Mills/Parsons Giants, assistant football coach at West-Side Vocational, member Coughlin Booster Club, Marine Corp. League in Miners Mills, American Legion Post 837 and President of the Resident Committee at Highland Manor.  John was also a member of St. Benedict’s Church, in Parsons.                                     

John was preceded in death by his wife, AnnJuan (Morgans) Moran, granddaughter Kimberly Evanko, grandson John Heddings, brothers James and Joseph, sisters Beatrice Tanski and Marie Moran.  He was survived by his son, John A. Moran, Jr. and wife, Lisa of Plains; and daughters Bridget Kondratick and Ellen Evanko both of Miners Mills, Wilkes-Barre.  Known as “Pop-Pop” to his grandchildren, Charlie, John, and Heath Heddings; Frances, Damian, and Theodore James “T.J.” Evanko; John III, Brian, Patrick, and Kaitlyn Moran; great-grandchildren, Keryn, Emily, Rachael, Corey, Jeremy, Zachary, Charlie and Liam.  John also leaves behind a brother, Joseph Moran and a sister, Marie Moran; along with many wonderful nieces and nephews.

The family would like to thank Highland Manor and their wonderful staff of nurses and aides not only for the wonderful care and compassion they showed our father but also our mother in her time of need.

Funeral will be held Wednesday at 9:30 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street  Plains, PA  18705, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 am in St. Benedict’s Parish, St. Dominic’s Church  155 Austin Avenue  Wilkes-Barre, PA  18705.  Interment will be held in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Hanover Twp.

Friends may call Tuesday from 5 to 8 pm at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Highland Manor Activity Fund 750 Schooley Avenue  Exeter, PA  18643 or Boy Scout Pack 100, 13 Stocker Street  Plains, PA  18705.

 

Eleanor Connelly
October 14, 2013

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Eleanor Connelly, 79, of Kingston died Monday morning, October 14, at Wilkes-Barre General Hospital.

She was born in Plains on Nov. 21, 1933, the daughter of the late James and Delia (Gildea) McGrady. She married John Connelly, who preceded Eleanor in death on July 17, 2012, on Oct. 10, 1959 at Sacred Heart Church in Plains.

Eleanor enjoyed going to the casinos, shopping, dining out and vacationing. Christmas was her favorite holiday and she made it special for her entire family. She truly enjoyed spending time with her children and especially her 14 grandchildren. She didn’t care for sports, but would be seen in the stands of athletic events to see her grandchildren participate. She also enjoyed school concerts.

She was a member of St. Ignatius Church in Kingston.

In addition to her parents and husband, Eleanor was preceded in death by her son, Brian and  brothers Paul and Joseph.

Surviving are daughters, Judy, Kingston; Maureen Shandra and her husband, Scott, Pittston Twp.; Jacqueline McNulty and her husband, Bill, Kingston; sons, Michael, Kingston; and Patrick and his wife, Melissa, Tannersville; grandchildren, Matthew Connelly; Brian, Collin, Kelley and Devin Shandra; Tyler McNulty; Rowan, Aidan and Jack Connelly; Brendan, Padraig, Siobhan, Cormac and Sean Connelly; sisters Marjorie Gallagher, Willingboro, N.J.; many nieces and nephews and her loyal dog, Thunder.

Funeral will be held Thursday at 9 a.m. from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc. 20 South Main Street, Plains, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 9:30 a.m. in St. Ignatius Loyola Parish , Kingston.  Interment will be in Sacred Heart Cemetery, Plains. 
Friends may call Wednesday from 5 to 8 pm. 

 

 

Marianne E. Lynch
October 8, 2013

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Marianne E. Lynch, 59, of Plains Township, passed away Tuesday afternoon, October 8, 2013, at the Wilkes-Barre General Hospital with her family by her side.
Born in Plains, she was the daughter of the late Thaddeus and Margaret (Rehoski) Dziedzic.

Marianne was a graduate of Plains Memorial High School, Class of 1972, and was a homemaker all her life. She was a very devoted Mother and Wife and had a great love for all animals. She was a member of SS.Peter & Paul Church, Plains.

Surviving are her Husband John of 38 years, daughter Anne Lynch, Wyoming; Sons; James Lynch and fiancée Amanda Petroski, Plains and Sean Lynch and wife Kerri, Pittstown Township; Brother, Mark Dziedzic and Wife Mary Ellen, Wyoming; Sisters, Karen Stavish and Husband Ron, Plains; Jane and Dianne Dziedzic, Wyoming; Nephews Ron Stavish and Thaddeus Dziedzic.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Friday at 9:30 am in SS. Peter & Paul Church 13 Hudson Road  Plains, PA.  Family and friends are asked to go directly to church Friday morning.  Interment will be held at the convenience of the family.
Friends may call Thursday evening from 6 to 8 pm at the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc.,  20 South Main Street  Plains, PA  18705.

Memorial donations if desired may be made to the SPCA of Luzerne County, 524 E. Mains Street, Wilkes-Barre, Pa. 18702.

 

 

Anna (Urban) Webb
October 4, 2013

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Anna (Urban) Webb 75, of Duryea died Friday afternoon, October 4, 2013, at Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center, Plains Twp.

Born in Wilkes-Barre, she was the daughter of the late Leo and Isabell Rhodes Cook.

Anna  was formerly employed for Luzerne County Head Start  as a Bus Driver and for Wilkes-Barre Area School  District until her retirement.

She was preceded in death by her first husband Leonard Urban Sr. in 1982; Sons, Edward and Robert Urban; Sister, Mary Lou Butry and Brother Anthony Cook.

Surviving are her husband Leroy Webb Sr., Duryea; Children Leonard Urban Jr. and his wife Kathy, Plains; Elizabeth Falandys and her husband Mark, Wilkes-Barre; Michele Bieble and her husband John, Plymouth; Stephen Urban and his wife Jennifer, Plains; Linda Jones and her husband Patrick, Mountaintop; Lisa Thomas and her husband Benjamin, Wilkes-Barre Twp.; Anita Ruggere and her husband Shane, Wilkes-Barre Twp.; Stepsons, Leroy Webb Jr., Duryea; Kenny Webb and his wife Toni, Avoca; Brothers, Robert Cook, Virginia; William Cook, Pittston; Patrick Cook, Jenkins Twp.; Ronald Cook, Wilkes-Barre; Sisters Patricia Benn, Wilkes-Barre and Susan Eaton, Conn.; 22 Grandchildren; 31 Great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Tuesday at 9:30 am in S’S Peter  and Paul’s Church Hudson Road Plains.  Anyone attending the funeral Mass should go directly to the Church.  Interment will be held in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Hanover Twp.

Friends may call Monday evening from 5 – 8 PM at Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main St. Plains, PA  18705.

Memorial donations, if desired, may be made to Candy’s Place 190 Welles St. Forty Fort, PA 18704 or to the SPCA Of Luzerne County, 524 E. Main Street, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702.

 

 

Bernard J. “Bernie” Gryskevicz
October 2, 2013

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Bernard J. Gryskevicz, 75, went home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, October 2, 2013.  His wife, Pat, was at his bedside.

Bernard was the son of the late Edward S. Gryskevicz and Mary Ann Vasell Gryskevicz of Plymouth, PA, and later Chase Road.  He was educated in Plymouth schools and graduated from Lake Lehman High School.

Following graduation, he perused employment in the automotive upholstering field.  He and his brother, Edward, were owners of Two Brother’s Auto Seat Covers in Old Forge, PA.  He later worked at the VA Medical Center for 17 years, from where he retired.

Bernie, as he was known by his family and many friends, was one of the original founders of the Bear Creek/Buck Twp. Girls Softball League.  He was a member of St. Christopher’s Church, prior to its closing and ran the summer Bazaars each year.  Bernie married Patricia A. Flynn in 1958 and together they raised four children.

Bernie was an avid sportsman.  His favorite sports were hunting and fishing.  He also enjoyed football and baseball and the many trips to New York and Maryland to see the Yankees (His favorite team) and the Orioles.  His favorite football team was the Fighting Irish of Notre Dame and Penn State.  He also enjoyed his trips to Canada with his boat and his family and friends.  He was preceded in death by his brother Edward Gryskevicz.

He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Patricia A. (Flynn) Gryskevicz, sons Bernard M. Gryskevicz and his children Anthony, Michael and Lauren of Nanticoke, David M. Gryskevicz and his 2 daughters Amanda and Sarah of Wilkes- Barre, Mark S. Gryskevicz and his wife Tammie and their children, Mark and Joel of Binghamton, NY, and daughter Sandra J. (Gryskevicz) Frey and her husband Patrick, Glen Burnie, Maryland,  3 great-grandchildren, sisters Bernadine Kropp, Middletown, PA, and Eleanor Panagakos, Dallas, numerous nieces and nephews.

The family would like to thank Commonwealth Home Health and Hospice who provided tender, loving care during Bernie’s final days, especially Denise and Barb.

Funeral Services for Bernie will be held Saturday, October 5, 2013 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 St. Andre Bessette Parish, St. Stanislaus Kostka Church, North Main Street Wilkes-Barre.  Interment will be held in the family plot.  Friends may Friday evening from 5 to 8 pm at the funeral home.

Memorial donations may be made to Commonwealth Home Health and Hospice  900 Rutter Avenue, Suite 8,  Forty Fort, PA  18704.

 

 

Daniel R. Green Jr.

Died September 27, 2013

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Daniel R. Green Jr., 40, of Nanticoke, died Friday afternoon at his home.
Born in Wilkes-Barre, he was the son of Daniel R. Green Sr. and the late Margret R. Coffay (Cookie) Green.

Daniel attended GAR high school and was formerly employed for Pocono Downs, Plains; Wilkes-Barre City sanitation department and last for Penguin Putman Publishing of Wilkes-Barre, as a Foreman/ Supervisor.

Danny was an avid Philadelphia Phillies and Eagles Football fan, and an avid bowler, but what was most important in his life was his Children.

Preceding him in death in addition to his mother are Paternal Grandparents; Daniel and Margaret Knorr Green and Maternal Grandparents, William and Catherine Hoffman Coffay.

Surviving in a ddition to his Father, Daniel are his children  Daniel R. III, Danielle L. and Dylan J. Green all at home; Sisters; Kelly Belch and Husband Daniel of Wilkes-Barre, Noreen Thompson, Wilkes-Barre and Theresa Young and Husband Brian, Plains; Nephews and Nieces, and Former wife Sharon Turner.

Funeral will be held Tuesday 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. Dominic’s Church, Parsons. Friends may call Monday from 5 to 8 pm. Interment will be in St. Nicholas Cemetery, Shavertown.

Donations if desired may be mad to Daniel’s family to aid in funeral expenses.

 

Joseph F. Linker, Jr.
Died September 13, 2013

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Joseph F. Linker, Jr., 48 of Upper Darby and formerly of Wilkes-Barre, passed away Friday, September 13, 2013, at Chapel Manor, Philadelphia, after a five year battle with a brain tumor.

Born in Wilkes-Barre, he was the son of Joseph F. Linker, Sr. of Kingston, and Carol (Krapcha) Caffrey and Tom Caffrey of Plains Twp.

Joe was a graduate of Overbrook School for the Blind, Philadelphia, and was a member of St. Anne’s Church, Philadelphia.

Surviving in addition to his parents are his daughter Amanda Linker, Connellsville, PA, fiancee’ Jennifer Cressman and her parents Ron and Terry Cressman, Philadelphia, brother Donald Linker and his wife Cory, Wilkes-Barre, Nephew D.J., and Niece Kristin Linker, his two cats, Baby and Benita, aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Funeral will be held Thursday at 9:00 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street  Plains, PA  18705, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 9:30 am in SS. Peter & Paul Church, 13 Hudson Road, Plains, PA  18705, with Father John Albosta, officiating.  Interment will be held in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Hanover Twp.

Friends may call Wednesday from 6 to 8 pm at the funeral home.

 

Charles P. Trabish
September 14, 2013

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Charles P. Trabish, 88 of the Miners Mills section of Wilkes-Barre, passed away Saturday morning, September 14, 2013, at ManorCare Nursing Home, Kingston.

Born in Miners Mills, he was the son of the late Metro & Dorothy (Kaczur) Trabish.

Charlie was a graduate of James M. Coughlin High School, Wilkes-Barre, and was a Marine Corps Veteran of World War II, serving in the Pacific Theatre.  After his discharge in 1946, he was employed as a coal miner in the local mines and later as a laborer for Inter Metro of Wilkes-Barre, until his retirement.

He was a member of the Plains American Legion, Joseph E. Conlon, Post 558 and the Triangle Club of Miners Mills.

He was preceded in death by his sisters Irene Gemski, Ann Tokach, Mary Hoar, Pearl Wassil, and Helen Kavinski.

Surviving are his sisters Emily Pittarelli, Reading, and Terry Boyle, Keniworth, New Jersey, nephews and nieces.

The Family would like to thank the nurses and the staff of ManorCare for their wonderful care of Charlie.

Funeral Services for Charlie will be held Monday evening at 8:00 pm at the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street  Plains, PA  18705, followed by Military Honors by the Plains American Legion Honor Guard.  Interment will be held at the convenience of the family.

Friends may call Monday evening from 6:00 to 8:00 pm at the funeral home.

 

Edythe Ann Krueger
September 10, 2013

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Edythe Ann Krueger, 75 of Laurel Run, passed away Tuesday morning, September 10, 2013, at her home with her family by her side after a valiant four year courageous battle with cancer. 

Born in Neptune, New Jersey, she was the daughter of the late Richard & Emily (Feurhelm) Poppele. 

Edythe was a graduate of Irvington New Jersey High School and was a homemaker all of her life.

Edythe was totally devoted to her family, especially her husband and best friend, Fred, with whom she traveled extensively.  She took great pride in all her children’s and grandchildren’s accomplishments and surrounded herself in pictures and mementos of the people and places that were most important.

She loved to cook, craft, and sew.  All family babies were blessed with a special handmade blanket or stuffed animal made with love.  Her grandchildren have been blessed to have many special memories from Grandma.

Visitors to her home were always treated to delicious meals.  Edythe spent many hours perfecting recipes, but was most famous for her brownies.  She was affectionately dubbed “The Brownie Queen.”  She never failed to make them for family parties and sent them off to college with her grandchildren or take them to Doctor’s appointments as gratitude for the wonderful care she received. 

Edythe’s courage throughout her illness was her families’ strength.  She was always a role model, her quiet, loving devotion to her husband, children, and grandchildren have been as inspiration to the family.

Surviving are her husband of 53 years, Fred, daughter Gretchen Himlin, Kingston, son Garett Krueger and his wife Marge, Plains, grandchildren Matthew, Samantha, Alex, and Cory Himlin, Kara and Kyle Krueger, brother Richard Poppele, Minneapolis, MN, and sister Judy Rudas, Marco Island, FLA

A Memorial Service for Edythe will be held Saturday, September 21, 2013, at 10:00 am in Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, South Main Street Wilkes-Barre.  Presiding will be Rev. Peter Kuritz and Rev. Janell Wigen.  Interment 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. 

Memorial donations may be made to Good Shepherd Lutheran Church 190 South Main Street  Wilkes-Barre, PA  1870 in Edythe’s memory.

 

Holly J. Mooney
 September 7, 2013

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Holly J. Mooney, 35, of Dallas, died Saturday morning at her home with her Family by her side.

Born in Wilkes-Barre, she was the daughter of Paul Zukoski and Karen Sitar Urzen.

Holly was a graduate of Wyoming Valley West High School, and a graduate of Wilkes-Barre Vocational School of Nursing, receiving her degree as a License Practical Nurse. Before moving back to Dallas she was a nurse with Ascera Care Hospice of Harrisburg.

Holly was a member of Saint Theresa’s Church, Shavertown.

Surviving are her Husband of 10 years Michael and Son Ethan Mooney of Dallas; Father Paul Zukoski and Step-Mother Mary Ann Zukoski of Olympia, Washington; Mother Karen Urzen and Step-Father Albert Urzen; Brother, Ryan Urzen, Swoyersville and Sister, Annie Zukoski, Salt Lake City, Utah; Paternal Grandmother, Patricia Zukoski, Askam; Maternal Grandmother, Cecil Sitar, Ashley; Mother and Father In Law Linda and Robert Nickerson, Plains.

Funeral will be held Wednesday at 9:15 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home Inc., 20 South Main Street, Plains, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 am in St. Theresa’s Church, Shavertown. Interment will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Hanover Township.

Friends may call Tuesday from 5 to 8 pm at the funeral home.

Memorial donations if desired may be made to Candy’s Place 190 Welles Street, Forty Fort, PA  18704.

 

 

Bernard M. Prevuznak
September 4, 2013

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Bernard M. Prevuznak, 82, of the Parsons Section of Wilkes Barre passed at away his home (his favorite place to be) surrounded by his loving family and close friends. He left us, his loving family, to finally embrace his Lord and God on Sept 4, 2013.

He was born and raised in the North End Section of Wilkes-Barre, and was the proud son of Slovak coalminers, the late Stephen and Agnes Prevuznak. He attended Sacred Heart elementary school, St. Nicks High School, and went on to achieve a Bachelor of Arts Degree in education from Kings College. He proudly entered the Military at age 17 and began a career that lasted 5 years, 11 months, and 23 days…(as he told us often)and was a Disabled American Veteran. He also achieved “Soldier of the Year award” during his time in the service of his country. His professional career was spent educating and helping God’s underprivileged and special need children. He spent years working at the Kis-lyn Juvenile Center and the White Haven Forestry Center. His public school career began at GAR Memorial High School where he served as a special education teacher, and then went on to teach at both James M. Coughlin High School and Plains Memorial Junior High School. He retired from the Wilkes-Barre Area School District after 35 years of service in 1992. He accommodated the needs of many students during teaching tenure, asked for little in return, with his only reward being the sure pleasure of helping a special needs child
    
He married his dearly beloved wife and best friend Lorraine L. Lavix on September 7, 1957 and would have celebrated 56 years of blissful married life together as of this Saturday. Besides his devoted wife he is survived by his two sons Bernard Stephen Prevuznak and his wife Sandra, Plains, Michael Joseph Prevuznak and his wife Lisa, Wilkes-Barre, Grandchildren Brandon, Mathew, and Rachael, Great Grandchildren Kaden and Evan; brother Stephen Prevuznak, Wilkes-Barre, Sisters Monica Winchillia,  Wilkes-Barre, and Jeanne Polacheck and her husband Thomas, Exeter and numerous nephews, nieces, great nephews, and great nieces who will miss their “Uncle Ben” greatly.
   
 “Pop”, “The Legend” “The Professor” had a lifelong love of reading and learning and tried to instill that into his students. His favorite reads were the Holy Bible, the writings of St. Thomas Aquinas, and whatever newspapers he could get his hands on. He loved playing and watching the lottery and knew every number for the last 40 years. He was an avid sports fan (He loved those Phillies) and loved watching athletic competition on television along with Jeopardy and Wheel of Fortune. He smiled often and never gave up on people or children specifically with special needs. His positive attitude even during the course of his illness never waivered. He never worried about much in this life and counted his blessings.

He was very devoted to his Catholic faith and prayed the Rosary daily with his wife. He was member of the North End Slovak Club, the Triangle Club, the Polish American Veterans Association, and The American Legion. He was a member of Scared Heart Parrish in North End until its closing but found a home at St. Benedict’s parish in Parsons.
    
Our family extends their undying gratitude to his doctor’s Dr.Desai, Dr. Greenwald, and Dr. Andrews during the course of his illness. Additional thanks to the 5th floor Cancer unit at General hospital and Erwine’s Home Health and Hospice services.
    
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Friday, September 6, 2013 at 10:00 in St. Benedict’s Parish, St. Dominic’s Church  155 Austin Avenue  Wilkes-Barre, PA.  Private interment will follow in Scared Heart Slovak Cemetery, Dorchester Drive, Dallas.

There will be no calling hours and friends are invited to go directly to church Friday morning.

Memorial donations may be made to the Lay Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary  C/O  Ann Johns  374 Monument Avenue  West Wyoming, PA 18644 or to the National Center For Padre Pio  111 Barto Road  Barto, PA  19504-8730.

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

 

 

Christian Tyler Cook
Died August 29, 2013

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Christian Tyler Cook, 30 of Wilkes-Bare, passed away unexpectedly Thursday, August 29, 2013 at home.

Born August 26, 1983 in Wilkes-Barre, he was the son of the late William and Karen (Boyle) Cook.  Christian attended James M. Coughlin H.S. where he was a member of the football team.

He was an avid Philadelphia Eagles fan, and enjoyed spending time with his pets, nieces McKayla and Callie Cook, and his brothers.

Surviving are his brothers William and Brandon Cook, maternal grandparents Hugh and Florence Boyle, Paternal grandmother Mary Cook, Nieces McKayla and Callie, numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.

A Memorial Services celebrating Christian’s life will be held at a later date.  Arrangements by the Corcoran Funeral Home, Plains, PA. 

 

Margaret “Peg” Cunningham
Died August 30, 2013

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Margaret “Peg” Cunningham, beloved mother and grandmother, passed away Friday evening, August 30, 2013 at the inpatient unit of Hospice Community Care, Geisinger South, Wilkes-Barre.

Born January 18, 1924 in the Miners Mills section of Wilkes-Barre, she was the daughter of the late Reese and Alveretta (Scanlon) Williams.

Peg was a graduate of James M. Coughlin H.S., Wilkes-Barre, Class of 1942, and was a homemaker all of her life.  She resided in Miners Mills for most of her life where she was a lifelong member of Blessed Sacrament Church until its merger.  Currently she is a member of St. Benedict’s Parish, Parsons Section of Wilkes-Barre.

She was preceded in death by her husband John F. Cunningham on July 3, 2003, and her daughter Joan Cunningham on March 4, 1963.

Surviving are her daughter Linda Chrzanowski, Plains, Twp., granddaughters Kimberly Belles, and Tracy Ornoski, great-granddaughters Katie and Emily Dickson, great-grandson Gavin Regan, brother James Williams, sisters-in-law Kathleen McDermott and Joan Cunningham, all of Wilkes-Barre, several nieces and nephews.

Funeral will be held Wednesday at 9:30 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street  Plains, PA  18705, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 am in St. Benedict’s Parish, St. Dominic’s Church 155 Austin Avenue, Wilkes-Barre, with her nephew Rev. Thomas M., Muldowney, V.G., officiating.  Interment will be held in St. Mary’s Cemetery.

Friends may call Tuesday from 4:00 to 7:00 pm at the funeral home.

 

James E. Saba
Died August 18, 2013

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James E. Saba, 84 of Kingston, died peacefully Sunday Morning, August 18, 2013 at Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center, Plains, Twp., after a short illness.

Born in Wilkes-Barre, he was the son of the late Simon and Emily (Sappe) Saba.

Mr. Saba, along with his parents, founded Sanitary Wiping Cloth and Sanitary Industrial Laundry, the largest wiping cloth business in the country.  They supplied business across the country as well as the United States Armed Services with wiping cloths during World War II, Korea and the Vietnam Wars.  Later he and his parents started S & J Enterprises and Meyer/Saba Metal Company, one of the larger scrap metal recyclers in Pennsylvania.

Mr. Saba was a lifelong Member of St Mary's Syrian Orthodox Church in Wilkes-Barre .  Ordained as Sub-deacon in 1959, he served under Father Hebert Nahas for 30 years and was instrumental in the building of the new church on South Main Street.  He was a Shriner and a Mason, and an avid golfer, having helped to grow The Irem Temple Country Clubs Golf Course through many years. He was a pilot and enjoyed flying his own plane for pleasure for many years.

Mr. Saba was a family man, raising 4 sons on Butler Street in Kingston with his late wife the former Rosemary Corcoran. He leaves behind sons Simon Saba and his wife Merry of Sparta NJ, James M. Saba and his fiancée Theresa McGrane, Harvey's Lake, Christopher E. Saba, Swoyersville, and Francis Saba and his husband Victor Rivera, of  Philadelphia and Dallas PA,. Seven grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren, Wife the former Esther Hannon, Sister Kathleen Line, Wilkes Barre, and many nieces and nephews.

Preceding him in death in addition to his wife are his sister Shirley Xanthopoulos of Lewistown.

Private Entombment was held at the convenience of the family in St. Mary Antiochian Orthodox Cemetery, Hanover Twp., PA. 

Contributions may be made to the Shriner Hospitals for Children, Office of Development, 2900 Rocky Point Drive, Tampa Florida 33607 In the memory of James E. Saba.
A Memorial/Reception will be held Sunday, August 25th, 3pm at the Saba Family Home, 198 Idetown Road, Dallas, PA  18612. All are welcome.

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

 

Anna J. “Angie” Spernoga
Died August 18, 2013

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Anna J. “Angie” Spernoga, 82 of Laflin and formerly of the North End section of Wilkes-Barre, passed away Sunday morning at the Wilkes-Barre General Hospital after a brief illness.

Born in the North End section of Wilkes-Barre, she was the daughter of the late Joseph and Mary (Jezerchak) Spernoga.

Angie attended Sacred Heart Slovak Elementary School and was a graduate of James M. Coughlin High School, Wilkes-Barre. 

She was employed by IBM, Washington, D.C. for over 10 years.  Returning home to Wilkes-Barre, she along with her family, owned and operated Spernoga’s Hideaway in the North End section of Wilkes-Barre, for many years.  She was a member of St. Andre Bessette Parish, North East Wilkes-Barre.

Angie loved the outdoors, especially gardening, swimming, and golfing.

She was preceded in death by her sister Josephine Spernoga on October 16, 2012.

Surviving are her beloved companion Judy Cameron, Laflin, sisters Frances Spernoga, Wilkes-Barre, and Theresa Kinney, Harvey’s Lake, nephews Barry and Daniel Kinney.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Wednesday at 9:30 am at St. Andre Bessette Parish, St. Stanislaus Kostka Church, Wilkes-Barre, with Father Kenneth Seeger, Pastor, officiating.  Friends are invited to go directly to church Wednesday morning.  Interment will be held in Sacred Heart Slovak Cemetery, Dorchester Drive, Dallas.  There will be no calling hours.

Memorial donations may be made to St. Andre Bessette Parish,666 North Main Street  Wilkes-Barre, PA  18705.

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

 

Katherine M. Scott
Died August 12, 2013

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Katherine M. Scott, 59 of Wyoming, passed away Monday morning at Geisinger Wyoming Valley, Plains, Twp., with her family by her side.

Born in Wilkes-Barre, she was the daughter of the late John B. and June G. (Renshaw) Grady.

Kathy was a graduate of Plains Memorial High School, and was employed for McDonalds, Wyoming, for 20 years.

She was preceded in death by her brothers Robert & Donald Purvis.

Surviving are her husband of 33 years Leroy Scott, daughter Lisa Shaw and her husband Marc, Nanticoke, son Charlie Scott and his fiancée Julie Vogt, Wyoming, grandson Jacob Shaw, sister Carol Kurovsky and her fiancée Patrick Lipka, Wilkes-Barre, brother William Purvis and his wife Patricia, and sister-in-law Marie Purvis, all of the Hudson section of Plains, nieces and nephews.

Funeral services for Kathy will be held Thursday at 10:00 am at the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street  Plains, PA  18705, with the Rev. Carol Coleman, Pastor of the Luzerne United Methodist Church, officiating.  Entombment will be held in Chapel Lawn Memorial Park, Dallas.

Friends may call Wednesday evening from 5 to 8 pm at the funeral home.

Memorial donations may be made to the charity of one’s choice in Kathy’s memory.

 

 

Bertha M. Liparula
Died August 7, 2013

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Bertha M. Liparula, passed away peacefully Wednesday morning in the arms of her devoted and loving husband, Frank and her son Richard Hannon who were at her side in the Celtic Health care, Hospice Community Care Inpatient Unit at Geisinger South Wilkes-Barre.

Bertha was born in Wilkes-Barre the daughter of the late Raymond and Bertha Richards Wilde. She was a graduate of Elmer L. Meyers High School.
For the last Seven years she and her husband Frank resided in Cape Vincent, New York where they enjoyed the great outdoors of the St. Lawrence River and Lake Ontario. Bertha was a gifted Photographer taking Photos of the land they loved most. She will be sadly missed by her granddaughters Haleigh the light of her eyes and Lexxus with whom she was recently reunited.

In addition to her parents Bertha was preceded in death by her Sister, Cathy Holmes, Sister-in-Law Cook Wilde.

In addition to her Husband Frank and son Richard Hannon, Granddaughters, Haleigh and Lexxus, Bertha is survived by her Brothers; Raymond Wilde, Wilkes-Barre, Joseph Wilde and Wife Elaine, Wilkes-Barre; John Wilde and Wife Paula, Wilkes-Barre, Mark Wilde and Wife Linda Wilkes-Barre, Michael Wilde, Nanticoke; Sisters; Elizabeth Debiase and Husband Joseph, Wilkes-Barre, Mary Wilde, Wilkes-Barre, Patricia Lester, Wilkes-Barre, Ann Marie Nelson and Husband Brian, West Pittston, Brother-in-law Daniel Holmes, Wilkes-Barre, numerous Nephews and Nieces.

Bertha will be deeply missed by her devoted pets, Cleo, Ceasar and Precious. A special thank you is extended to the entire Nursing Staff, CNA’S, MSW’S and Chaplains of the Celtic Homehealth & Hospice Inpatient Unit; to Dr James Juinta whose honesty and compassion aided us through a difficult time and Dr. Susan Sordoni and Dr Fath for their compassionate care while Bertha was a patient in the Inpatient Unit.
Funeral will be held Saturday at 8:45 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home 20 South Main Street Plains with a Mass of Christian Burial at 9:30 in St. Andre Bassett Parish, Holy Saviour Church, Wilkes-Barre. Interment will be held in St. Ignatius Cemetery, Pringle. Friends may call Friday evening form 5 to 8 pm.

In lieu of flowers donations if desired may be made to Eric Speicher a Teenager who is undergoing treatment for Brain Cancer, C/O Anne Speicher Cawley 1876 Pittston Blvd Bear Creek, Wilkes-Barre, Pa. 18702.

 

 

Louise Materazzi
Died July 29, 2013

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Louise Merlino Materazzi, 94, of Etters, PA, and formerly of the Hudson section of Plains, Twp., passed away Monday, July 29, 2013 at her home with her family by her side.

Born in Hudson, PA, she was the daughter of the late Sabbato and Viola (Mirra) Merlino. She attended Cotton Ave School, Hudson, and was employed for several years at the Consolidated Cigar Company in West Pittston.

Louise was a loving mother and housewife. Her greatest joy in life was spending time with her family and friends. Louise and her late husband Edmund hosted countless family dinners and parties at their home. Louise provided her own home made ravioli, gnocchi, pizza and many other Italian dishes, which were beyond compare.
She was a kind, compassionate and generous human being who gave to life far more than she took and did, indeed, leave the world better than she found it.
She was preceded in death by her husband Edmund; son, Edward; brothers, Johnny Merlino who was killed in World War II, Frank Merlino and Dominick Merlino; sisters, Eleanor Costello and Mary Lello.

Louise is survived by her sons Leroy Materazzi and his wife Joyee, Daniel Materazzi and wife Terry; sister Rose Rubino of Laflin; and sister-in-laws, Grace Merlino of Hudson, PA and Caroline Merlino of Bath, PA; Grandchildren, Christine Materazzi, Jeffrey Materazzi, Angela Rist, Tanya Runnels, Jill Materazzi, Todd Materazzi and Danette Materazzi; 11 Great-grandchildren.

Funeral Services for Louise will be held Friday at 9:30 am at the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 S. Main Street in Plains, PA, 18705. Her entombment will be held at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Carverton, PA.

Friends may call Thursday evening from 5 to 8 P.M. at the funeral home.
The family requests, that Memorial Donations be made to Alzheimer’s Foundation of America.

 

 

Michael R. McGrady
Died July 28, 2013

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Michael R. “Buddy” McGrady of Plains, passed away suddenly on Sunday morning, July 28, 2013. 

Michael was born in Plains Township on August 3, 1939, son of the late Michael D. and Isabelle H. (Hope) McGrady.

Michael was a graduate of Sacred Heart High School, Plains, class of 1958.  Following high school, he served in the U.S. Navy and the Naval Reserves where he received an Honorable Discharge.  He worked for several years at Craft Associates, Parsons and then enjoyed a 33 year career in sales at Giant Floor and Wall Covering Company before his retirement.

Mike was very active in his church, SS. Peter and Paul Parish, Plains, where he served as a Eucharistic Minister, avid choir and Men’s Club member.  Mike brought smiles and love to the homebound when he administered communion – a ministry he loved dearly.
Mike was devoted to his family and friends.  He had the patience of a saint.  He was known for his giving, kind, easy-going nature, his love of a good joke and sharing a laugh.  He loved visiting with family and friends, gardening, card games, travel and singing.  Mike was always humming or whistling a tune.  For years he hosted many memorable parties.  One of his greatest joys was spending time with his grandchildren, Joey and Anna.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Peggy Corcoran.  Michael is survived by his wife, Lillian (Krokos) McGrady with whom he enjoyed 44 years of marriage; daughter, Michele Bernardo and her husband, Joseph; son, Kevin McGrady and girlfriend, Melanie Stephenson; grandchildren, Joseph and Anna; sisters  Mary “Honey” Murphy, Rita Vukovich and husband Walter and many wonderful brothers and sisters-in-law; numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, cousins and close friends.

The family wishes to express heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Frank Olshemski and staff, Dr. Michalene Torbik, Celtic Home Health Care and Plains Ambulance Association for their loving and compassionate care.

Funeral will be held Wednesday at 9:30am from Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street  Plains, PA  18705 with a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 am at SS. Peter and Paul Church, 13 Hudson Road Plains.  Interment will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery, Hanover Township, with military honors provided by The United States Navy Funeral Detail. 

Friends may call Tuesday evening from 5 to 8 pm at the funeral home.

Michael’s wish that Memorial Donations be made to SS. Peter and Paul Food Pantry, 13 Hudson Road, Plains, or the Plains Ambulance Association  90 Maffett Street  Plains, PA  18705.

 

 

Thomas J. Davis
July 26. 2013

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Thomas J. Davis, 89, of Hanover Township died Thursday evening at the Wilkes-Barre General Hospital with his family by his side.

Born in Wilkes-Barre, he was the son of the late William and Julia Cosgrove Davis.
Thomas was a graduate of Elmer L. Meyers High School and was a Navy Veteran of World War II and the Korean Conflict.  He served aboard the USS Wilkes-Barre, the USS West Virginia and the USS Tuscaloosa.        
                                                     
He was a Tool and Die maker and was partner in Davis Tool and Machine Shop of Wilkes-Barre and also worked for Atlas Chain and Cable of West-Pittston for 20 years and last for Owens-Illinois of Jenkins Township for 10 years, until his retirement.
Thomas was a member of St. Aloysius Church, Wilkes-Barre and the Hanover American Legion Post 609.

Thomas and his Wife Dorothy meet and spent many years dancing at the Spinning Wheel and were members of the Big Band Society for 13 years.
He is preceded in death by his Brothers, Leonard, William and Alvin and Sister Margret Scott.

Surviving are his Wife of 64 years the former Dorothy  Leedock, Sons; William and his Wife Jody Davis of Wilkes-Barre; Thomas and his Wife Susan Davis of Kingston, Daughters; Deborah Davis of Lake Worth, Florida and Christine and her Husband Todd Kurash, Wilkes-Barre; Grandchildren, Matthew Davis, Emily Bergen, Kaila, Kyle and Koel Kurash; Nephews and Nieces.

Funeral will be held Monday 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. Aloysius Church, Wilkes-Barre. Interment with Military Honors will be held in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Hanover Township.

Friends may call Sunday afternoon from 2 to 4 pm.

 

Anthony “Struzzie” Struzzieri
Died July 18, 2013

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Anthony “Struzzie” Struzzieri, 74 of Old Boston, passed away Thursday morning at Geisinger Wyoming Valley, Plains, Twp.

Born in the Old Boston section of Jenkins Twp., he was the son of the late Angelo & Lena (Nardone) Struzzieri.

Tony was a graduate of Jenkins Township High School, and was employed as a truck driver by  Addy Asphalt for over 20 years.  He was a member of St. Maria Goretti Church, Laflin, The International Brotherhood of Teamsters, Local 401, Wilkes-Barre, and The Old Boston Roma Club.

Tony was a devoted patron of The Lincoln Inn in Dupont where his smile and kind words always may you feel welcome.  His kind heart and generosity, especially around the Holiday’s, will be missed by many.    

He was preceded in death by his wife the former Beverly Landon on March 6, 1983, sister Patricia Ralston, and his brother Vincent Struzzieri.

Surviving are his daughters Lori Struzzieri and her boyfriend Bruce Bronsburg, Larksville, Tina Sperazza and her husband Joseph, Old Boston, and his son Anthony Struzzieri, Old Boston, his devoted dog & buddy Snickers, nieces & nephews.

The family would like to thank Dr. Charles Manganiello, Dr. Mark Bernardi, and the nurses at Geisinger Wyoming Valley, MS 5 West for their special care of Tony.

Funeral will be held Monday at 9:00 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street  Plains, PA  18705, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 9:30 am in St. Maria Goretti Church 42 Redwood Drive  Laflin, PA  18702.  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 Denison Cemetery, Swoyersville, PA.

Friends may call Sunday evening from 5 to 8 pm at the funeral home.

 

 

John L. Murray
Died July 18, 2013

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John L. Murray, 56, of Dallas, Pa., entered into eternal life on Thursday afternoon at his home with his family by his side.
Born in Plains he is the son of Dorothy R. (Burns) Murray of Plains and the late Gerald E. Murray.

John was a graduate of James M. Coughlin High School, Wilkes-Barre, class of 1975, Luzerne County Community College,  Kutztown University and College Misericordia, Dallas. John was Co-founder and owner of GEM Therapeutics of Dallas for the past eleven years.

He was a member of Gate of Heaven Church Dallas, where he served as Eucharist Minister and was a member of Cursilo Prison Ministry in Altoona, Pa., the Guardian of the Redeemer Men’s Group,   and a member of the Men of Malvern Retreat. John was member of the Knights of Columbus Dallas, former Little League Coach for Dallas Little League, a former member of Dallas Rotary Club and played baseball for Kutztown and LCCC.

Surviving in addition to his Mother Dorothy are his Wife of  twenty five years the former Dianne Richard, Seven children; Jessica, New York City, Julianna, at home; Patrick, Joseph, John, Christopher and Michael, all at home; Brothers Gerald Jr., and his wife Suzanne, State College, Joseph and his wife Tracy, Mountain Top; Sisters; Helen Lindner and husband Larry, Clark Summit; Nancy Jones, Plains, Dr. Marianne Hall and husband Kevin, Portland, Maine, numerous Nephews and Nieces.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Tuesday at 10:30 am in Gate of Heaven Church, 40 Machell Avenue Dallas, PA  18612, with Father Dan Toomey, Pastor, as celebrant. Friends are invited to go directly to church Tuesday morning.  Friends may call Monday from 4 to 7 pm at Gate of Heaven Church. Interment will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Hanover Township.

In lieu of Flowers donations if desired may be made to Hospice of the Sacred Heart 600 Baltimore Drive, Wilkes-Barre or the Catherine McAuley House 121 Church Street  Plymouth, PA  18651, or the Charity of one’s choice.

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

 

MICHAEL J. CORCORAN
DIED JULY 18, 2013

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Michael J. Corcoran, age 71, went home to the Lord on Thursday evening July 18, 2013, after a courageous battle with cancer. His beloved wife, Roberta and family were at his bedside.

Born May 26, 1942, the son of the late Hugh and Marie (Mattick) Corcoran, Dad was a 1960 graduate of Sacred Heart High School, Plains.  He was class president 3 of 4 years, an Altar Boy throughout his school years and, to hear him speak, was a better than average basketball player. Dad received the American Legion Award for the highest academic average over his 8 years of grade school.

Dad possessed a bachelor’s degree from Kings College where he served as secretary and president of the Student National Education Association, and was a proud member of the Kings College Glee Club. He also earned a masters degree from the University of Scranton and completed career enrichment courses at Temple University, Glassboro State University, Wilkes University and the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Graduate School.

After three years of teaching, Dad served 31 years with the U.S. Department of Labor's Wage & Hour Division. He often described his role enforcing laws protecting the American worker, as a vocation, the best and most satisfying job in the world. Laws enforced included the Minimum Wage and Overtime Law, the Equal Pay Act, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act, the Family and Medical Leave Act as well as statutes protecting children, the disabled, the rights of migrant workers and those performing on government contracts.

Dad's positive attitude reflected itself in his many career accomplishments. At the local level he served as Investigator, Assistant District Director and District Director. Regionally He performed as Equal Pay & Age Discrimination Specialist, Government Contracts Specialist, Sheltered Workshop Specialist, and Administrative Assistant to the Regional Director.

A frequent instructor at Wage & Hour national training classes, including spending five weeks in the U.S. Virgin Islands training their investigative staff, Dad was consistently asked to serve lengthy details at the National Office level. These included Branch Chief of Wage Hour Standards and Branch Chief of Government Contracts. For many years he served on Regional and National quality control teams conducting accountably reviews to ensure consistent application of agency statues.

He served as District Director of Wage-Hour's Wilkes Barre Office for the last 17 years of his career. The office covered more than half of the Pennsylvania's 67 counties.

 

Subsequent to the 1972 Agnes Flood, Dad was detailed to the Office of Emergency Preparedness. He was in charge of all disaster relief agencies stationed at the Forty Fort Borough Building, the area near the cemetery where the river first breeched the dike. He would brag that he met President Richard Nixon and comedian Bob Hope, who were among many dignitaries who visited during this difficult time.

Dad believed government existed to protect, allow realization of the American Dream, and to provide for the needy and unfortunate among us. He lived his personal life in a similar caring, compassionate manner, especially so towards his children, grandchildren and close friends. An infectiously positive person, Dad believed life was best guided by simple sayings. Among his favorites: "Just do it, but think beyond yourself".

A 3rd degree Knight of Columbus, council 302, and a past member of its advisory board, Dad also served on the Wilkes Barre School District Advisory Committee and was a founding member of Deerhorn Sportsmen's Club. He was a member of the Polish American Vets, the Great Bend VFW, and the Perugia Beneficial Society.

In addition to Roberta, his beloved wife of 48 years, Dad is survived by children Michael and his fiancée Nancy Angus, Cranberry Township PA; Denise Lewandowski and her husband Bernie, Boiling Springs PA; Sandy Graham and her husband Mark, Carlisle PA; and six grandchildren Matthew, Katherine, Alyson, Jake, Andrew and Mackenzie, each loved equally and without bounds.

Also surviving are brothers Hugh and his wife Dorothy, Pittston; Marie Spagnuolo and her husband John, Plains; Ray and his wife, Joyce, Linglestown; and John and his wife, Marilyn, Plains. Dad's parents and sister, Ellen preceded him. Dad was especially comforted throughout his illness by family and friends who "just did it", including maintenance chores at our home; driving assistance on the many trips to Fox Chase Hospital in Philadelphia; routine visits to our home and get well cards.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Tuesday at 9:30 am in St. Frances X Cabrini Church, Carverton. Family and friends are invited to go directly to church Tuesday morning.  Interment will be in Sacred Heart Cemetery, Plains. Friends may call Monday evening from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street  Plains, PA  18705.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation at www.jdrf.org.

 

Vera J. Lisko
Died July 16, 2013

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Vera J. Lisko, 93 of the Miners Mills section of Wilkes-Barre, passed away Tuesday afternoon at the United Methodist Homes, Wesley Village Campus, Jenkins Twp.

Born in Wilkes-Barre, she was the daughter of the late John & Anna (Vanyush) Basalyga.

Vera was a graduate of James M. Coughlin High School, Wilkes-Barre, and was employed for 17 years for the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, Bear Creek, as Clerk of Permits.

She was a member of Holy Trinity Russian Orthodox Church, Miners Mills.

She was preceded in death by her husband Michael Lisko, Sr. on October 30, 2009, brother John Basalyga, and sister Anna Rudusky.

Surviving are her sons Michael Lisko, Jr., and his wife Deanne, Plains, David Lisko, and his wife Cynthia, Chicago, Illinois, grandchildren Michael, Jason, Chrysa, & Nika.

Funeral will be held Saturday at 9:00 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20
South Main Street, Plains, PA  18705, with the Orthodox Requiem Service at 9:30 am at Holy Trinity Russian Orthodox Church, Miners Mills.  Private Entombment will be held in Saint Tikhon of Zadonsk Cemetery, South Canaan, PA, at the convenience of the family.

Friends may call Friday from 3:00 to 5:00 pm at the funeral home.

Memorial donations may be made to the United Methodist Homes, Wesley Village Campus  209 Roberts Road, Pittston, PA  18640.

 

Marguerite M. Magdelinskas
Died July 17, 2013

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Marguerite M. Magdelinskas, 87 of Plains, Twp., passed away Wednesday morning at the inpatient unit of Hospice Community Care, Geisinger South, Wilkes-Barre.

Born in Wilkes-Barre, she was the daughter of the late Joseph & Stella (Korzinski) Falkowski.

Marguerite was a graduate of G.A.R. Memorial High School, Wilkes-Barre, Class of 1943, and was a homemaker all of her life.

She was a member of Sacred Heart Church, Plains, and its Altar & Rosary Society, and currently a member of SS. Peter & Paul Church, Plains. 

She was preceded in death by her husband of 62 years, Joseph C. Magdelinskas on March 8, 2010, brothers Edmund and Norbert Falkowski.

Surviving are her Son Joseph Magdelinskas, Annapolis, Maryland, daughter Marie Baronick and her husband Gary,  Liverpool, NY, Grandchildren Amy Stevens, Gary Baronick and his wife Nicole, Beth Dec and her husband Paul, and Michael and Leigh Magdelinskas,  Great-Grandchildren Isabelle, Victoria, Joseph, and Elizabeth Baronick and Brandon and Meghan Stevens, sister Emilie Hertely, Wilkes-Barre, brothers John Falkowski and his wife Helen, White Haven, and Joseph Falkowski and his wife Fran, Wilkes-Barre, brother-in-law Vito Magdelinskas, Warwick, New York, several nieces and nephews.

Funeral will be held Saturday at 10:00 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street  Plains, PA  18705, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 am in SS. Peter & Paul Church, 13 Hudson Road, Plains.  Interment will be held in Holy Trinity Cemetery, Bear Creek.

Friends may call Friday from 6:30 to 8:30 pm at the funeral home.

Memorial donations may be made to the American Heart Association 613 Baltimore Drive, Suite 3
Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702.

 

Paul “Deek” Dessoye
Died July 14, 2013

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Paul A. “Deek” Dessoye, 75 of Plains Twp., passed away Sunday morning at his home with his family by his side.

Born in Plains, he was the son of the late John P. and Anna (Martin) Dessoye.

Paul was a graduate of Plains Memorial High School, Class of 1957, and was a Navy Veteran serving as a Radioman aboard the U.S.S. Cascade.  He was employed as a machinist for Proctor & Gamble for 25 years until his retirement.

Paul was a lifelong member of Sacred Heart Church, Plains, and currently a member of SS. Peter & Paul Church, Plains, and a member of the Plains American Legion, Joseph E. Conlon, Post 558.

He was preceded in death by his brother John Dessoye, sister Audrey Dessoye, and son-in-law Duane Herbert.

Surviving are his daughters Paula Mattey and her husband Walter, Wilkes-Barre, Deborah Herbert, Bear Creek Twp., Carol Dessoye, Larksville, Maureen Dessoye, and Denise Dessoye, both of Plains, grandsons Chris, Ryan, Shane, Mark, Patrick and Nathan, great-granddaughter Lily, wife Patricia (Gillespie) Dessoye, brother Frank Dessoye and his wife Marita, Plains, sisters Annabelle Suchoski and her husband Edward, Plains, Gloria Jasterzenski and her husband James, Luzerne, Kathleen Shea and her husband Joseph, Plains, and Margaret “Peggy” Fedor and her husband Daniel, Hooksett, New Hampshire, many nieces & nephews.

The family would like to thank the staff and nurses of Traditional Home Health Care & Hospice of Dunmore, FML Dialysis Center and the Staff  of Geisinger Medical Center for their wonderful care of Paul.

Funeral will be held Wednesday at 9:00 am at the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street  Plains, PA  18705, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 9:30 am in SS. Peter & Paul Church, 13 Hudson Road  Plains.  Interment with Military Honors will be held in the parish cemetery, Plains.

Friends may call Tuesday from 5 to 8 pm at the funeral home.

Memorial donations may be made to the Plains Ambulance Association  90 Maffett Street, Plains, PA  18705 or to Traditional Home Health Care & Hospice  113 Drinker Street  Dunmore, PA  18512, in Paul’s memory.

 

Alfred J. Gurnari
Died June 28, 2013

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Alfred J. Gurnari, 78, of the Miners Mills section of Wilkes-Barre, died Friday morning at The Laurels, Kingston.
Born in Luzerne, he was the son of the late Bruno and Catherine (Provenziano) Gurnari.

attended Luzerne schools and was an Army Veteran of the Korean Conflict, receiving the National Defense Service Medal, Korea Service Medal, and the U.N. Service Medal.

He was employed for Acme Bakery in Wilkes-Barre for 26 years, Blue Cross for 20 years and last for Gold Star Wide Format of Wilkes-Barre. He was a member of St. Benedicts Parish, Parsons. Al was an avid bowler at Chacko’s Bowling.

He was preceded in death by his Wife Anne Marie on February 28, 2013; Brothers, Joseph, Dominick and Bruno Gurnari.

Surviving are his Children; Nina Deno and her husband Lloyd, Ashley; Alan Gurnari, Wilkes-Barre, Patty Zendarski and her husband Bob, Glen Lyon and Joseph “Jody” Gurnari and his wife Bobbi Jo, Plains; 10 Grandchildren and 3 Great-grandchildren; Brothers; Frank Gurnari, Luzerne, Larry Gurnari and his wife Helen, Swoyersville; Anthony Gurnari Edwardsville, Virgil Gurnari, Luzerne; Sister Arlene Kane and Husband Jerry, Swoyersville and Anne Marie Padalski, Swoyersville; Nephews and Nieces.

Funeral will be held Tuesday at 9:30 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home Inc.,  20 South Main Street Plains Pa., with a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 am in St. Benedict’s Parish, St. Dominic’s Church, 155 Austin Avenue Parsons, PA.

Interment with Military Honors will be held at St. Mary’s Cemetery, Hanover Township. Friends may call Monday from 4 to 7 pm at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Luke’ Villa, 80 E. Northampton Street Wilkes-Barre, Pa. 18702.

 

Thomas G. Shortz, Sr.
Died June 28, 2013

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Thomas G. Shortz, Sr., 77 of Wilkes-Barre, passed away Friday morning at the Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Plains, Twp.

Born in Wilkes-Barre, he was the son of the late George A. and Mary (Swiderski) Shortz and the step-son of the late Rose (Letastik) Shortz.

Tom attended Wilkes-Barre schools and was a U.S. Marine Corps Veteran of the Korean Conflict, attaining the rank of corporal.  He was employed for the Wilkes-Barre General Hospital for 36 years retiring in 1996.

Tom was a soft spoken man who loved to spend time with his family.  Family was everything to him.  He enjoyed sports and was an avid Penn State and Philadelphia Eagles Fan.

He and his wife the former Emily Feist, celebrated their 54th wedding anniversary on November 24, 2012.

He was preceded in death by his daughter Emily Shortz in 1994.

Surviving in addition to his wife Emily, are his son Thomas G. Shortz, Jr., and his wife Susan, Wilkes-Barre, daughters Laura Cooper, Duryea, and Bonnie Long and her husband Robert, Wilkes-Barre Twp., grandchildren Thomas G. Shortz, III, Timothy Shortz, and Tory Shortz, Bryanna Rosendo, Brittany Long, Bryan Cooper and Jessica Meyers, great-grandchildren Bobby Feist, Michael, Braden, and Noah Shortz, Dominick and Damien Irwin, Jayden and Jalissa Shortz, Antonio Rosendo, and Madison Williams, several nieces and nephews.

Funeral Services for Tom will be private and held at the convenience of the family.

Family and friends are invited to attend Tom’s viewing Sunday from 2:00 to 5:00 pm at the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street  Plains, PA  18705.

Memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society 712 S. Keyser Avenue, Taylor, PA 18517   or to the charity of ones choice.

 

Orlando “Londo” Barbacci
Died June 22, 2013

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Orlando J. “Londo” Barbacci, 86, of North Canton, Ohio, died on June 22, 2013, surrounded by his family.   He was born on April 30, 1927, in Plainsville, PA , the twelfth of fourteen children of the late Domenico and Josephina (Brozzi)  Barbacci. 

Orlando was a long time resident of North Canton, OH and a US Army veteran of World War II. 

Orlando was the first member of his family to graduate from college.  He received a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering from Tri-State College in Angola, Indiana, by benefit of the GI Bill.  He later received a Master degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Akron, Akron, Ohio. 

He was employed as an electrical engineer at Goodyear Aerospace in Akron, Ohio in the Aircraft Wheel and Brake Division for over 30 years.  He was a principal engineer in developing a flight simulator for the A6-A Intruder aircraft and trained Navy pilots at the Cherry Point Marine Corps Air Station in Havelock, North Carolina.

Orlando taught engineering technology at the University of Akron for over 20 years.  He served as a Democratic Committeeman in Stark County, Ohio and was a member of the Stark County Inventors Club.

Orlando loved farming and grew vegetables and produce for many years.  He especially enjoyed growing and selling pumpkins, Indian corn and sunflowers.  He was affectionately known to many as “The Pumpkin Man.”  Orlando loved spending time with his family and keeping his Italian family traditions alive.
He was honored to be called “Grandpa” by Ayat, Hassanayn, Zaynab, Fatymah and Aly Joseph of Toledo, Ohio.  The family would like to extend their gratitude to the nurses and staff of the Windsor Medical Center, North Canton, Ohio and Harbor Light Hospice for the care provided to Orlando.  The family would also like to extend their thanks and gratitude to the many physicians and nurse practitioners at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation, for the “World Class Cardiac Care” provided.

He and his wife the former Mary Patricia Hudanick would have celebrated their 61st wedding anniversary on June 28, 2013.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers Armando (Herman), Guilio (Julio), Fernando (James) Natale (Barb) and Eugilio (Gene) Barbacci, sisters Rosa Ragugini, Viola Donini, Orella Caparoni, and Irene Bechetti, and infant sister Clemantina Barbacci.

Surviving in addition to his wife Patricia are his daughters Marguerite (Ted Rogers), Manns Choice, PA, Josephine Anne, North  Canton, OH and Lisa Marie, Medina, OH, his twin sister, Louise Yanoshak and sister Clementine (Tillie) Cross both of Plains, and brother John Barbacci of Havelock, NC, sisters-in-law Mary Barbacci and Alda Barbacci and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

A Mass of Christian Burial for Londo will be held Saturday, June 29, 2013, at 9:30 am in St. Frances X. Cabrini Church, Carverton section of Wyoming.  Family and friends are invited to go directly to church Saturday morning.  Private interment will be held in Mount Olivet Cemetery.  Friends may call Friday from 5:00 to 8:00 pm at the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street  Plains, PA  18705.

The family suggests that Memorial Donations be made to Salvation Army 520 Kidder Street  Wilkes-Barre, PA  18702 or the Cleveland Clinic Foundation by e-mail at giving@ccf.org.

 

Dorothy M. Ashton
Died June 23, 2013

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Dorothy M. Ashton, 80 of Wilkes-Barre, passed away Sunday morning at Guardian Elder Care Center, Nanticoke.

Born in Wilkes-Barre, she was the daughter of the late Albert & Viola (Love) Llewellyn.

Dorothy was a graduate of Plains Memorial High School, class of 1950, and was a homemaker all of her life.

She was preceded in death by her sons Richard and Robert Ashton, and her brother David Llewellyn.

Surviving are her sons Bill, Gary, Danny and Scott, Daughters Bonnie, Debbie, Cathy and Cheryl, 40 grandchildren, 30 great-grandchildren, 4 great-great-grandchildren, sister Annette Reidy, Wilkes-Barre, many nieces and nephews.

Funeral Services for Dorothy will be held Tuesday at 7:00 pm at the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street Plains, PA  18705.  Interment will be held at the convenience of the family.

Friends may call Tuesday from 4:00 to 7:00 pm at the Funeral Home.

 

Mary S. Rymar
Died June 19, 2013

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Mary “Mamie” Rymar, 104 ½, a resident of Plains Township, passed away on June 19, 2013 at her home with her granddaughter Jean Marie at her side.

Born on December 5, 1908 in Larksville, she was the daughter of the late Philip and Sophie (Leonard) Nice.

Mary was the widow of Stanley Rymar, who died on March 3, 1955. She was a member of the churches of Sacred Heart and SS. Peter & Paul, of Plains, and its Altar and Rosary Societies.

She attended Larksville Borough Schools and was employed as a seamstress for Plains Blouse until her retirement.

In addition to her husband Stanley, she was preceded in death by her son Robert.  Also six brothers, John, George, Philip, Joseph, Frank, and Thomas Nice, and one sister Ann Shimko.  She was the last surviving sibling in a family of eight children.

Surviving are her granddaughter and caretaker, Jean Marie Rymar, with who she resided, grandson Robert Rymar, Wilkes-Barre, and daughter-in-law Regina Rymar, Wilkes-Barre. 

Mary’s Funeral was held at the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street Plains, with a Mass of Christian Burial in SS. Peter & Paul Church, Plains.  Interment was held in Sacred Heart Cemetery, Plains.

 

Andrew Gobla
Died June 18, 2013

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Andrew Gobla, 88 of Wilkes-Barre, went to be with his Lord and Saviour on June 18, 2013.  He had resided at Little Flower Manor for the past 2 ½ years.

Andy was born in Mountaintop on April 13, 1925, son of the late Andrew and Mary Gobla. 

He attended Mountaintop area schools and was a U.S. Navy Veteran of World War II, serving aboard the U.S.S. Franklin.  Upon his honorable discharge from the Navy, he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force and was a Veteran of the Korean Conflict.  After Andy’s second Honorable Discharge, he was employed as an electrician at Faith Shoe Factory and Topps Chewing Gum until his retirement in 1988.

He was a member of the East End Primitive Methodist Church.

He and his wife the former Ruth Miller, would have celebrated their 57th wedding anniversary on June 30, 2013.

He was preceded in death by his daughter Elizabeth Anne Stawasz, sisters Eva Lebert and Mary Schwenk, brothers Frank, Harry, John, Michael, and George.

Surviving in addition to his wife Ruth are his daughter Sharon Leslie and her husband Edward, Miners Mills section of Wilkes-Barre, grandchildren Erica Leslie Bennick, Nicole Stawasz Gregori, Craig Stawasz, Edward T. Leslie and Madisen Leslie, son-in-law Jack Stawasz, Plains, several nieces and nephew.

Funeral Services for Andy will be held Saturday, June 29, 2013 at  11:00 am at the East End Primitive Methodist Church, Wilkes-Barre, with Rev. Marty Garms, Pastor, officiating.  Interment will be held at the convenience of the family.

Memorial donations may be made to Little Flower Manor, 200 Meade Street  Wilkes-Bare, PA  18702 or to the East End Primitive Methodist Church, 79 Laurel Street Wilkes-Barre, PA  18702 in Andy’s memory.

 

Christine “Tina” Baines
Died June 7, 2013

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Christine “Tina” Baines, 52 of the Miners Mills section of Wilkes-Barre, and formerly of Raleigh, North Carolina, passed away Friday morning at her home after a courageous battle with cancer, with her family by her side.

Born in Wilkes-Barre, she was the daughter of Florence (Dworakoski) Pienta and the late Stanley Pienta, who passed away June 20, 1982.

Tina was a graduate of James M. Coughlin High School, Class of 1978, and was employed for The Times Leader, Wilkes-Barre, in the Advertising Dept. for the past five years.

Tina was an avid Philadelphia Phillies and Pittsburgh Steelers Fan.  She enjoyed attending concerts, festivals, The Party on the Patio at the Mohegan Sun, and was a lover of music.

Surviving in addition to her mother Florence, are her brothers Daniel Pienta and his wife Jackie, Wilkes-Barre, Stanley Pienta and his wife Joan, Plains, sister Mary Maurer and her companion Edward Gill, Wilkes-Barre, several nieces and nephews, 2 great nephews, and 1 great niece.

A Memorial Service for Tina will be held Monday, June 10, 2013, at 7:00 pm at the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street  Plains, PA  18705, with Father Joseph A. Kearney, Officiating.  Interment will be held at the convenience of the family.

Friends may call Monday from 5:00 pm till 7:00 pm at the funeral home.

Memorial donations may be made to the SPCA of Luzerne County, 524 E. Main Street, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702, or to Choose Hope, Inc., 1261 W. Main Street Sun Prairie, WI  53590.

 

Mary Margaret Satkowski 
Died May 31, 2013

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Mary Margaret Konsavage Satkowski, of the Parsons section of Wilkes-Barre, passed away Friday evening at the inpatient unit of Hospice Community Care, Geisinger South, Wilkes-Barre.

Mary Margaret was born in Wilkes-Barre, daughter of the late Michael and Margaret Konsavage and was a graduate of James M. Coughlin High School, Wilkes-Barre, Class of 1970.

Mary Margaret was employed for Valley Vending of Wilkes-Barre and last for American Food and Vending of Taylor.

She was a member of Blessed Sacrament Church, Miners Mills and currently a member of St. Benedict’s Parish/ St. Dominick’s Church, Parsons.

Surviving are her Husband of 34 years, Donald Satkowski; Daughter, Laura Satkowski and Fiancée Christopher Zawatsky; Sisters, Barbara Dugan, Branchburg, N. J.; Kathryn Harris and her husband Steve, Neshanic Station, N.J.; Sharon Rogan and Husband Joseph, Dallas, Pa. Nephews and Nieces.

Donald and Laura would like to thank Dr. Martin Martino of Lehigh Valley Hospital, Dr. Bruce Saidman and Dr. David Greenwald, Dr. Kevin Carey and Wilkes-Barre General Hospital 5Th floor and the Staff of Hospice Community Care for their wonderful care of Mary.

Funeral will be held Tuesday 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. Dominick’s Church, 155 Austin Avenue, Parsons, with Father Joseph A. Kearney, Pastor, Officiating.  Interment will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Hanover Township.

Friends may call Monday afternoon from 4 to 7 pm at the funeral home.

Memorial donations if desired may be made to Medical Oncology Prescription Drug Fund, 382 Pierce Street, Kingston, PA 18704, in Mary’s Memory.

 

Veronica T. Ungvarsky
Died May 1, 2013

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Veronica T. Ungvarsky, 91, formerly of the North End section of Wilkes-Barre, left the loving arms of her family to be with God on Wednesday, May 1, 2013, at the home of her daughter.

Veronica was born on February 14, 1922 in Siba, Czechoslovakia, daughter of the late Andrew and Mary Fertal and immigrated to America in 1928. 

She was a graduate of James M. Coughlin High School, Wilkes-Barre, and was a member of Sacred Heart of Jesus Slovak Church in the North End Section of Wilkes-Barre for 85 years.  While a member, she belonged to the Catholic Daughters Rosary Society and the Sacred Heart School PTA.  She also volunteered with compassion at Manor Care Nursing Home, Kingston, and at the Seniors Citizens Center, Wilkes-Barre.

Veronica was employed by Central Slipper Company for many years, however, her most important and cherished job was being Nana, and she was “The Best.”  She was extremely proud of her family and enjoyed spending time with them around the dinner table.

In addition to her parents, Veronica was preceded in death by her husband Stephen, sister Mary Benz, and brother Frank Fertal.

Surviving are her daughter Joan Magdalinski and her husband Frank, Son James Ungvarsky, and Stephen Ungvarsky and his wife Theresa, grandchildren Michael and his wife Christine, and Linda Viteritti and her husband John, great-grandchildren Robert, Emily, and Ryan Viteritti, and Morgan and Mason Magdalinski, brother Rev. Joseph Fertal, SVD, sisters-in-law, Eleanor Ungvarsky and Mary Ungvarsky, several nieces and nephews. 

Veronica’ family would like to thank her caregivers, Mzia, and Maia, sisters Joseph Louise and Joseph Marie Magdalinski, and Dr. Joseph Radzwilka for their outstanding care and kindness.

Veronica’s Funeral Mass will be held Saturday at 11:00 am at St. Maria Goretti Church, 42 Redwood Drive  Laflin, PA  18702.  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 held in Sacred Heart Slovak Cemetery, Dallas.

Friends may call Saturday morning from 10:00 to 11:00 am at St. Maria Goretti Church.

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

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Veronica’s name may be made to the St. Vincent de Paul’s Soup Kitchen  39 E. Jackson Street  Wilkes-Barre, PA  18702.

 

Mildred M. Adonizio
Died May 30, 2013

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Mildred M. Adonizio, 92, of Laflin, died Thursday morning at her home.

Born in Inkerman, she was  the daughter of the late William and Catherine  (Harrington) Mulderig.

Mildred was a graduate of  St. John’s High School, Pittston and Marywood University Scranton,  receiving her Master’s degree in education.  Mildred taught school at the Scranton Techinal School until her retirement, and was past treasurer of ther retired techers assosciation.

Mildred was the former owner and operator of TWIN Oaks Cafe , in Inkerman.

She was a member of St. Maria Goretti Church Laflin and a member of The Young at Heart Club of church.

She was preceded in death by her Sister, Mary Dohman and Brother Attorney Frank  Mulderig.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Saturday at 10:00 am in St. Maria Goretti Church, Laflin . The Parish  Rosary Group will recite the Divine Mercy Chaplet and Rosary in the Church 30 minutes before the Funeral Mass.  Interment  will be in  Catherdal Cemetery,  Oram Street  Scranton, PA. 

Friends may Saturday morning at St. Maria Goretti Church from 9:00 am until 9:45am.

Memorial donations if desired may be made to St. Maria Goretti Church, 42 Redwood Drive, Laflin, PA  18702.

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

 

Duane J. Herbert
Died May 28, 2013

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Duane J. Herbert, 53 of Bear Creek Twp., passed away Tuesday morning at his home.

Born in Wilkes-Barre, he was the son of John Herbert of Pittston, and Elizabeth (Winter) Herbert of Bear Creek.

Duane was a graduate of James M. Coughlin High School, Wilkes-Barre, Class of 1977, and was the owner of Mountain Auto Shop, Bear Creek for 35 years. 

He was a member of the Polish American Veterans, Hudson section of Plains, The Triangle Club, Miners Mills section of Wilkes-Barre, and was a member of the F. & A.M. Lodge #61, Wilkes-Barre. Duane was a family man who was always there to lend a helping hand to his family and friends.  He especially loved spending time with his granddaughter Lily.

Surviving in addition to his parents are his wife of 30 years the former Debbie Dessoye, sons Christopher, Ryan, and Shane, all of Bear Creek Twp., granddaughter Lily Miraglia, Mountaintop, brother John Herbert and partner Narin Kaowliam, Plymouth, sister Cathie Thomas and her husband Paul, Edwardsville, Denise McMillian and her husband Edward, Harvey’s Lake, nephews and nieces.

Funeral services will be private and held at the convenience of the family.  A memorial service will be held at a later date.

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

 

Teresa “Terry” Georgetti
Died May 24, 2013

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Teresa “Terry” Georgetti, 88, a long time resident of Plains, PA, passed away peacefully on May 24, 2013 at Riverstreet Manor Nursing Home, Wilkes-Barre, where she resided for the last five years.

Born October 20, 1924 in Mildred, PA, Terry was the daughter of the late William and Elizabeth (O’Neil) McGee.

She was a graduate of Cherry Township High School, and was a member of the former Sacred Heart Church, Plains.

Terry was owner of Terry’s Luncheonette, Plains, from 1950 to1992.  The students of Plains Memorial High School kept her busy for many years and she thought of each and every one of them as her “Kids.”  She also worked at the Grand Union, Public Square, Wilkes-Barre.

Terry was an avid Notre Dame Football fan.  She never missed watching a game.

She was preceded in death by her husband Alfred Georgetti, who passed away in 1992, brothers Gerald, Eugene, James, and William McGee, sisters Agnes McGee, Josephine Husted, and Sr. Elizaretta McGee.

Surviving are her son Tito Georgetti and his wife Mary, Plains, grandson Tony Georgetti, Sugarloaf, several nieces and nephews.

The family would like to thank Dr. Patel and the many nurses, aides, and the entire staff of Riverstreet Manor for their kindness, generous care, and friendship they provided Terry over the past five years.

Funeral Services will be held Monday, May 27, 2013, Memorial Day, at 4:00 pm at the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street, Plains, PA  18705.  Friends may call Monday afternoon from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm at the funeral home.  Interment will be held at the convenience of the family.

Memorial donations may be made in Terry’s name to the SPCA of Luzerne County, 524 E. Main Street, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702, or to Blue Chip Farms at www.bcfanimalrefuge.org/donate

 

Helen T. McNelis
Died May 22, 2013

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Helen T. McNelis, a 50 year resident of Trucksville, Pa, and former resident of Pittston, Pa, left this world unexpectedly Wednesday morning to join her beloved husband Lee.

To say Helen loved life would be the understatement of the century. Most recently, she celebrated a milestone birthday, attended the 40th birthday celebration of her Grandson, Jordan ("Joby") as well as the graduation of her grandson, Sean, from Georgetown University. Helen was looking forward to attending her Granddaughter Cassidy's upcoming graduation from High School.

A daughter of the late Leo Pace and Catherine (O'Rourke) Pace, Helen was born in Pittston, Pa ON December 14. Although a Back Mountain resident for many years and a loved neighbor there, she simply adored the town where she grew up and remained a proud and loyal former resident for all of her life. Helen was a 1945 graduate of Pittston High School, where she served as captain of the Majorettes. She was also very active at the polling stations in Pittston on Election Day.

Mrs. McNelis was a member of St. Therese's Church in Shavertown where she often graced the Bake Sales there with her scrumptious home-made pies. St. Therese of the Little Flower was her favorite saint and she regularly said novenas to her. In addition, Danny Thomas' St. Jude's Children's Hospital was very dear to her heart.

Helen loved to entertain, get together with her many friends and simply had the most beautiful blue eyes one could ever gaze upon. She loved music and knew the word to every old time sing along and Irish song. Deeply associated with her Irish heritage, Helen was an avid Notre Dame Football fan as well as a member of the ladies auxiliary of the Ancient Order of Hibernians, the Donegal Society of Wilkes-Barre, and a member of the Pittston Chapter of The Jacqueline’s Society. She, along with a multitude of friends and family members, would never think of missing the annual Irish Fall Festival Weekend held in North Wildwood, New Jersey, along with the Classic Car Weekend where she loved admiring Sharp-Looking cars. With the possible exception of her lavish Christmas Day spreads, St. Patrick's Day was Helen's favorite holiday. She was as synonymous with it as shamrocks and leprechauns. If Helen could speak for herself, she would undoubtedly prefer us to celebrate the many years we were lucky enough to spend with her instead of mourning her loss.

Helen maintained her parents graves right up until the end and had plans on doing that this Memorial Day weekend. She was extremely proud to be an American, had the utmost respect for our armed forces and even maintained the graves of unknown soldiers when time allowed.

In addition to her parents, Helen was preceded in death by her husband and best friend, Lee McNelis; Siblings Claire Kling, DeLores Lynott, Ann O'Brien and Leo, William and Harry Pace and Son-In-Law John Versari, her own son as far as Helen was concerned, with whom she shared her birthday with.

She is survived by daughters, Sharon Versari, Trucksville; Cathy and husband Dr. Paul J. Witt, Dallas; Licia and husband, Dr. Robert Guilday, Wallingford, Pa; grandchildren, Jordan, Keriellen, P.J., Licia, Sean, Caili, Cassidy, Quinn and Robbie; great-granddaughter, Maddie McEvoy, numerous nieces and nephews, including Billy Pace, Wilkes-Barre and Leo Pace, Maryland, whom she considered her own children, and Joseph and David Pace, whom she considered grandchildren.

Funeral will be held Saturday at 9:15 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street Plains, PA  18705, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 am in St. Therese’s Church, Shavertown, with Father James J. Paisley, Pastor, officiating.  Entombment will be held in Mount Olivet Cemetery, Carverton section of Wyoming.  Friends may call Friday evening from 5:00 to 8:00 pm at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to Danny Thomas' St. Jude Children´s Research Hospital, 332 North Lauderdale, Memphis, TN 38105, or to St. Therese’s Church 64 Davis Street  Shavertown, PA  18708.

 

Sister Mary Luke Gibbons
Died May 15, 2013

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Sister Mary Luke Gibbons, a member of the Mid-Atlantic Community of the Sisters of Mercy, died at Mercy Center, Dallas, on Wednesday, May 15, 2013.

Baptized Rita Gibbons, Sister Luke was born November 27, 1919 in Wilkes-Barre, daughter of the late John and Anna Marie (Connor) Gibbons.

Sister Luke graduated from James M. Coughlin High School, Wilkes-Barre, and received a degree in Business Education from Misericordia University, Dallas, and her Master’s Degree from Catholic University.

Sister entered the Sisters of Mercy in Dallas, PA on September 8, 1944 and professed her vows on March 12, 1947.

Sister Luke was well prepared for her ministry in education which included both elementary and secondary schools in the Dioceses of New York and Scranton.  It was her great joy to be on the faculty of Misericordia University where she initated and chaired the Business Administration Program.  Sister Luke also served the Sisters of Mercy as Provincial Secretary in the former Scranton Province.

Sister Luke will be remembered by many at the former Wilkes-Barre General Hospital where she volunteered as a Eucharistic Minister.  Sister was then pleased to become an active member in the Ministry of Prayer at Mercy Center.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sisters Catherine and Mary P. Gibbons, her brothers Robert, Joseph, and William Gibbons.

Sister Luke is survived by her sister Mrs. Gertrude Alles, and many devoted nieces and nephews.

The Celebration of her Life will begin at Mercy Center Dallas on Friday, Mary 24, 2013 with a welcoming prayer at 9:00 am, followed by a viewing until 10:15 am.  A Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:30 am, followed by interment at Mount Olivet Cemetery, Carverton section of Wyoming.

Memorial donations in the name of Sister Luke may be made to Mercy Center, P.O. Box 370  Dallas, PA  18612.

 

Florence C. Kozera
Died May 16, 2013

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Florence C. Kozera, 93 of Wilkes-Barre, passed away Thursday morning at Riverstreet Manor Nursing Home, Wilkes-Barre.

Born in Wilkes-Barre, she was the daughter of the late Martin and Anna (Gola) Kozera.

Florence attended James M. Coughlin High School, Wilkes-Barre, was employed for House of Savoy of Wilkes-Barre until her retirement.  She was a life long member of St. Stanislaus Kostka Church, currently St. Andre Bessette Parish, North End Section of Wilkes-Barre.

She was preceded in death by her Brothers Joseph & John Kozera, and sister Mary Kozera.

Surviving are her sisters Bertha Kozera, Wilkes-Barre, Josephine Sincavage, Tobyhanna, and Stella Fabbrini, Wilkes-Barre, several nieces and nephews, several great-nieces and nephews, and several great-great-nieces and nephews; several 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 St. Stanislaus Kostka Church, Wilkes-Barre, with Father Kenneth Seegar, Pastor, Officiating.  Interment will be in the parish cemetery, Plains.

Friends may call Sunday evening from 5 to 7 pm at the funeral home.

 

 

Ann Giovannini
Died May 13, 2013

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Ann Giovannini, 69 of Plains, PA, passed from this world on Monday, May 13, 2013, with her family and friends at her side.

Ann was born in Laflin, PA, daughter of the late Joseph & Olga (Mudzik) Phillips, and the devoted wife of the late Andrew M. Giovannini.

She was a graduate of Plains Memorial High School, and Mercy Hospital School of Nursing, and was a Mercy Nurse at Mercy Hospital, Wilkes-Barre, for more than 40 years before retiring to spend more time with her children and grandchildren.

Ann enjoyed traveling the world with her family and friends.  She selflessly devoted herself to her family and always put the comfort and happiness of her family and friends above her own.  Ann volunteered her time and talent to the McAuley Clinic in Wilkes-Barre where she volunteered as a nurse giving care to those in need.  She was a member of SS. Peter & Paul Church, Plains, and the Red Hats’.

Ann was preceded in death by her husband Andrew M. Giovannini on March 31, 1982, Brothers Joseph and Thomas Phillips, Sister Patricia Ceprish.

Surviving are her daughter Lisa Giovannini, Plains, son Atty. Andrew Giovannini and his wife Marquita, Tiverton, Rhode Island, grandsons Noah and Joshua, granddaughters Madeline and Emilia, Brothers Ronald Phillips and his wife Cecelia, Plains, Robert Phillips and his wife Beverly, and David Phillips, all of Laflin, several nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Friday at 9:30 am in SS. Peter & Paul Church, 13 Hudson Road  Plains, PA  18705.  Family and friends are asked to go directly to church.  Interment will be held in the parish cemetery, Plains.  There will be no calling hours.

Memorial donations may be made to the Make-A-Wish Foundation, 480 Scott Street, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702, or to Medical Oncology Prescription Fund  382 Pierce Street Kingston, PA  18704.

 

Jean H. Darsky
Died May 12, 2013

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Jean H. Darsky, 65 of Westminister, Jenkins Twp., passed away late Sunday afternoon after being struck by a motor vehicle.

Born in Detroit, Michigan, she was the daughter of the late Stanley and Martha (Somoga) Godlewski.

Jean was a graduate of Plains Memorial High School, Class of 1965, and was employed as a Meat Room Clerk for Acme Markets, Price Chopper, and Sunshine Market until her retirement.

Jean always made everything right for her son and family.  Mark was blessed with a special mother, and every day with Jean was a great day.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband Thomas Darsky on August 30, 2003, infant brother Leo, Sisters Barbara Zielinski and Francine T. Klutchko.

Surviving are her son Mark “Rocky” Darsky, Jenkins Twp., sister-in-law Shirley Darsky, Westminister, nieces and nephews.

Funeral Services will be held Thursday evening at 9:00 pm at the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street  Plains, PA  18705.  Interment will be held Friday in Fern Knoll Burial Park, Dallas. 

Friends may call Thursday evening from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm at the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., Plains.

 

Laurence L. Mc Grady
Died May 10, 2013

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Laurence L. Mc Grady, 75, of Plains Township, passed away Friday morning at Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center Plains, after suffering a heart attack.

Born in Plains, he was the son of the late Joseph and Loretta (Brady) Mc Grady.
Larry was a graduate of Sacred Heart High School, Plains, Class of 1955, St. Elizabeth Hospital School of Nursing, Boston, Massachusetts, receiving his R.N., received his Baccalaureate Degree in Nursing from St. Louis University, St. Louis Missouri and received his Masters Degree in Rehabilitation Counseling from the University of Scranton. Larry received the Par Excellence in Clinical Nursing, Who’s Who in America Nursing and belonged to the Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing.

He was a Board member and Past President of the Pennsylvania Council of Homemakers/Home Health Aides, Member of the Professional Advisory Committee for the School of Nursing at College Misericordia, Dallas; Certified as Nursing Instructor for the Home Health Nursing Course, American Red Cross Chapter, Wilkes-Barre.
Larry was employed in the Health Care Industry for 35 years both in Private and Federal Sectors. He had been employed in staff to administrative position in the health care industry in Massachusetts, California, Missouri and Pennsylvania and had been licensed to practice nursing in these Commonwealths and States.

He was last employed for as Director of Nursing Services for the VNA of Wyoming Valley until his retirement.

In addition to his mother and father, Larry is preceded in death by his brothers Francis and Leo Mc Grady.

Surviving are his sister Loretta McGilloway and husband James, Lakewood, N.J.; and brother Thomas McGrady, Yardville N.J.; several nephews and nieces.
Private funeral services will be held at the convenience of the family.

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

 

Veronica T. Ungvarsky
Died May 1, 2013

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Veronica T. Ungvarsky, 91, formerly of the North End section of Wilkes-Barre, left the loving arms of her family to be with God on Wednesday, May 1, 2013, at the home of her daughter.

Veronica was born on February 14, 1922 in Siba, Czechoslovakia, daughter of the late Andrew and Mary Fertal and immigrated to America in 1928. 

She was a graduate of James M. Coughlin High School, Wilkes-Barre, and was a member of Sacred Heart of Jesus Slovak Church in the North End Section of Wilkes-Barre for 85 years.  While a member, she belonged to the Catholic Daughters Rosary Society and the Sacred Heart School PTA.  She also volunteered with compassion at Manor Care Nursing Home, Kingston, and at the Seniors Citizens Center, Wilkes-Barre.

Veronica was employed by Central Slipper Company for many years, however, her most important and cherished job was being Nana, and she was “The Best.”  She was extremely proud of her family and enjoyed spending time with them around the dinner table.

In addition to her parents, Veronica was preceded in death by her husband Stephen, sister Mary Benz, and brother Frank Fertal.

Surviving are her daughter Joan Magdalinski and her husband Frank, Son James Ungvarsky, and Stephen Ungvarsky and his wife Theresa, grandchildren Michael and his wife Christine, and Linda Viteritti and her husband John, great-grandchildren Robert, Emily, and Ryan Viteritti, and Morgan and Mason Magdalinski, brother Rev. Joseph Fertal, SVD, sisters-in-law, Eleanor Ungvarsky and Mary Ungvarsky, several nieces and nephews. 

Veronica’ family would like to thank her caregivers, Mzia, and Maia, sisters Joseph Louise and Joseph Marie Magdalinski, and Dr. Joseph Radzwilka for their outstanding care and kindness.

Veronica’s Funeral Mass will be held Saturday at 11:00 am at St. Maria Goretti Church, 42 Redwood Drive  Laflin, PA  18702.  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 held in Sacred Heart Slovak Cemetery, Dallas.

 

Ruth O'Donnell Woehrle
Died May 3, 2013

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Ruth O'Donnell Woehrle, 93 of Abington Township, passed on Friday, May 3, 2013, after a brief illness at Abington Memorial Hospital in suburban Philadelphia.

Born in Wilkes-Barre,  Ruth was the daughter of the late Roger and Mary (Kane) O’Donnell and was a 50 year resident of Plains Twp.

Ruth was a graduate of James M. Coughlin High School, Class of 1936, and Marywood College, Scranton, Class of 1940, earning a Bachelor of Science degree.  A registered dietitian, Ruth led the dietetics department at Mercy Hospital and Wilkes-Barre General Hospital where she met the love of her life, Nelson, to whom she was married for 32 years. Her family and friends long admired her keen intelligence, sense of humor and devotion to her Catholic faith.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Nelson Christian Woehrle, MD, who practiced medicine for 58 years in Plains. She also was preceded by her son Daniel John Woehrle.

Ruth was the last surviving member of her generation of the O'Donnell family. She was preceded in death by sisters, Esther, Martha, and Jean and brothers Clement, Joseph, Justin, Roger and Ted.

She is survived by her sons Attorney Christopher Woehrle  and his wife Lann Salyard Woehrle, MD of Haverford; Attorney Lawrence Woehrle and his wife Nancy McNamee Woehrle of Wyncote; Nelson C. Woehrle and his wife Emmy of Rochester, New York, and daughter-in-law Catherine Wagman Woehrle of suburban DC.

She is also survived by ten grandchildren: Lauren, Roger, Grace and Kevin Woehrle all of Wyncote; Patrick, Cullen, Hillary, Jamie, and Nelson C. Woehrle III, all of suburban Washington DC; and Katie Woehrle of Honolulu, Hawaii.

Ruth’s funeral will be held Tuesday at 9:00 am at the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street  Plains, PA  18705 with a Mass of Christian Burial at 9:30 am in SS. Peter & Paul Church, 13 Hudson Road  Plains, PA  18705.  Interment will be held in Fern Knoll Burial Park, Dallas, PA.

Friends may call Monday evening from 7:00 to 9:00 pm at the funeral home.

 

Dr. D. Keith Ferrell
Died May 1, 2013

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Dr. D. Keith Ferrell, 62 of Wilkes-Barre City, passed away unexpectedly at home on Wednesday, May 1, 2013.

Born in Nashville, Tennessee, Keith was preceded in death by his parents Dr. Guy V. and Phyllis (Manera) Ferrell and his beloved Labrador Retrievers, Snickers and Brandy.

Dr. Ferrell was a graduate of Dallas High School, and Luzerne County Community College, where his father served as the first President of the College.  He received his bachelor’s degree from Wilkes University and his post graduate degrees from Marywood University.  In addition, he was one of the first Pennsylvania Certifications Board’s Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselors.  He was also a Certified Substance Abuse Professional (S.A.P.), an Internationally Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor and held a certificate of proficiency in the treatment of alcohol and other psychoactive substance use disorders from The American Psychological Association.

Dr. Ferrell was the founder and director of the Forensic Assessment and Counseling Unit at the Luzerne County Correctional Facility until 2003.  He worked in private practice with Ferrell and Associates, Inc.  since 1990, with offices in Wilkes-Barre and Hazleton. He was also the program director for Pennsylvania Institute for Rational Emotive Therapy and a Fellow and Certified Supervisor Associated with the Albert Ellis Institute, New York, NY, where he had worked as an associate professor.

Dr. Ferrell was an antique car enthusiast, motorcyclist, and banjo and guitar player.  He was also a skeet and clay shooting and indoor target shooting enthusiast.  He was one of the founding members of the Crossroadz Motorcycle Club, Frackville, PA, and also a member of the Nescopeck Hunting and Rifle Club, The PGA National Golf Club, and the Palm Beach Yacht Club.   He was also a member of the Irem Shiners Lodge No. 61.   

Keith is survived by his wife of 34, Marylee Brennan Ferrell, his beloved dog, Bella, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and many friends.

Funeral Services for Dr. Ferrell will be held Monday at 10::00 am in the Chapel of St. Mary’s Cemetery, 1594 South Main Street  Hanover Twp., PA  18706, followed by entombment in the cemetery’s mausoleum.  Friends may call Sunday from 2:00 to 4:00 pm at the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street  Plains, PA  18705.

 

Robert A. Novicenskie
Died April 30, 2013

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Robert A. Novicenskie, 72 of Laflin, passed away early Tuesday morning at his home after suffering a heart seizure.

Born in Shamokin and raised in Mt. Carmel, Bob was the son of the late Anthony & Mary (Lagerman) Novicenskie.

He was a graduate of Mt. Carmel Catholic High School, class of 1958, and was an Army Veteran of the Vietnam War serving from 1964 to 1966.  He was employed as a printer for The Item, Mt. Carmel, The Sunday Independent, and The Citizens’ Voice, both of Wilkes-Barre, until his retirement. 

Bob was devout catholic and a man of great faith.  He was a lifelong member of St. Maria Goretti Church, Laflin, where he was a Eucharistic Minister and a Sacristan.  He was also a Lector, was involved in the Christian Service and was in charge of the Altar Servers and the Sacristans.

He and his wife the former Marcia A. Mihalik celebrated their 44th wedding anniversary on April 19, 2013.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his infant grandson Benjamin Kane, and infant granddaughter Irena Kane.

Surviving in addition to his wife Marcia, are his daughters Pamela Kane and her husband Michael, Hanover Twp., Wendy Novicenskie and her husband Brad Williams, Hillsborough, NC, and Christine Kane and her husband Thomas, Hanover Twp., grandchildren Ryan Kane, Connor Williams, Zachary Kane, Katie Williams, Emily Kane, Brendan Kane, and Izabela Kane, sister Marilyn Holdren and her husband James, Danville, nieces & nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Friday at 12:00 pm at 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.  Friends are invited to go directly to church Friday afternoon. 

Interment will be held at the convenience of the family.

Friends may call Thursday evening from 5:00 to 7:00 pm at 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.

 

Bernard L. Frantz
Died April 26, 2013

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Bernard L. Frantz, 90, of Plains, past into God’s arms with his family by his side on Friday while a patient at Wilkes-Barre General Hospital.

Born June 17, 1922 in Kingston, he was the son of the late John and Anna (Steinkirchner)  Frantz. Bernard was a graduate of Kingston High School, Class of 1940, and enjoyed the old rivalry with his wife’s school, James M. Coughlin, especially on Thanksgiving.  His wife, the former Lillian Sisko, was the love of his life and they were inseparable. They enjoyed a long and loving marriage of 68 years usually holding hands and sharing loving glances.

Bernie was a devoted husband, father and worked long and hard for the good of his family.

Having served in World War II in Europe he returned home to work in the coal mines for Sindaco & Prospect Mine. He also worked in manufacturing, for Prudential Insurance and as a carpenter for Rudibon until he retired.

His voice was remarkable and he soloed at Madison Square Garden with Concordia in the 1950’s and 1960’s. He also sang solo’s in church and with the Knights of Columbus for several years. Bernie was a member of SS Peter & Paul Church Plains and was a member of the Holy Name Society and a Lector at Sacred Heart Church, Plains until its closing. He was a 4th degree Knight of Columbus, Assumpta Council 3987, Luzerne. His strong faith and devotion for the Blessed Virgin Mary and the Rosary were always evident to those who knew him. He often stated that his rosary got him thru the cold and danger during WWII where he served as an infantry man in the 42nd Rainbow Division under General George S. Patton in Rhineland and Central Europe.  While in the military he rose to the rank of Staff Sergeant serving with G2 Intelligence and was the only Non-Commission Officer in War Crimes Investigation leading to the Nuremberg Trials.

Bernie’s 6 grandchildren, 8 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great- grandchildren referred to him always as “Pop” and got big hugs and kisses from them; they were the joy of his life. Bernard & Lillian thru example always instilled a strong and enduring sense of family and belonging. Holidays and any reason to get together mattered most and they enjoyed card games on Sunday nights.
In addition to his Mother & Father, Bernie he was preceded in death by his Brothers John, Robert, & Carl, and Sisters Gertrude Grausam and Rita Slavinski.

Surviving  in addition to  his Wife Lillian are  his Son Dr. Bernard Frantz and his Wife Sandra, Plains; Daughter, Mariann McGroarty and her Husband Joseph, Plains; Grandchildren, Dr. Bernard E. Frantz and his Wife Susan, Shavertown; Wendy Nussey and her Husband Dr. Richard, Ocean City, N. J., Joseph A. McGroarty and his Wife Kathy, Arlington Va.,  Bernard A. McGroarty and his Wife Julie Anna, Hagerstown, Md., Mariann Jurista and her Husband Mark, Mountaintop; April McGroarty and her Fiancé Brian Godlewski, 8 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great-grandchildren and several nephews and nieces.

He will be remembered and missed forever by his family and Wife Lillian.
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 Sacred Heart Slovak Cemetery, Dallas, Pa.

Family and friends may call Monday evening from 5 to 8 pm at the Funeral Home.

Memorial donations if desired may be made to St. Joseph’s Center 2010 Adams Avenue, Scranton , PA  18509 or to St. Ann’s Basilica 1250 St. Ann Street Scranton,  PA  18504.

 

JEANNE H. CONWAY
Died April 25, 2013

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Jeanne H. Conway, 67 of Plains, Twp., passed away Thursday morning at her home.

Born in Wilkes-Barre, she was the daughter of the late Raymond and Mary (Barger) Herron.

Jeanne was a graduate of St. Mary’s High School, Wilkes-Barre, Class of 1963, and Wilkes-Barre Business College.

She was a homemaker all of her life, and was devoted to her husband, children, and grandchildren.

In addition to her parents, she was precede in death by her infant brother Kevin, brother Raymond Herron, sister Maureen Sulligan, and her twin sister Joan Robinson.

Surviving are her husband of 40 years, Patrick J. Conway, Daughters Mary Alice “Molly” Rosencrans, and her husband James, Wilkes-Barre, Colleen Casterline and her husband Donald, Mountain Top, and Patricia Conway, Plains, sons Patrick and Timothy Conway, at home, Brendan Conway, Wilkes-Barre, and Sheamus Conway, Wilkes-Barre, Twp., grandchildren Scott, Liza, and Nora Rosencrans, and Donald Casterline, nephews and nieces.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Monday at 9:30 am in Immaculate Conception Church, 605 Luzerne Avenue  West Pittston, PA  18643, with Monsignor John J. Sempa, pastor, officiating.  Friends and family are invited to go directly to church on Monday morning.

Interment will be held in Sacred Heart Cemetery, Plains, Twp.  Friends may call Sunday afternoon from 2:00 to 5:00 pm at the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street  Plains, PA  18705.

Memorial donations if desired may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project,  c/o https://support.woundedwarriorproject.org/ 

 

Joseph A. Greskiewicz
DIED APRIL 21, 2013

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Joseph A. Greskiewicz, 90 of Wilkes-Barre, and formerly of Plains Twp., passed away Sunday afternoon in the hospice unit at the Dept. of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Plains, Twp.

Born in West Wyoming, he was the son of the late Anthony & Mary (Silkowski) Greskiewicz.

Joe was a graduate of West Wyoming High School and was an Army Air Force Veteran of World War II, serving in the European theatre with the 764th Bomb Squadron, attaining the rank of Sergeant.

After World War II, he was employed as a coal miner in the area mines, as a salesman and worked for the Stegmaier and Gibbons Breweries of Wilkes-Barre.

He was a member of Our Lady of Hope Parish, St. Mary’s Maternity Church, Wilkes-Barre.  Joe was a man of great faith and the great treasure he had next to his family was his bible that he read every day.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 57 years the former Eva Yankowski on April 1, 2005, Sister Cecilia, brothers Frank, Stanley, Bolster, and Andrew.

Surviving are his daughter Janet Kruzlik and her husband Joseph, Hanover Twp., son Martin Greskiewicz and his wife Susan, Wilkes-Barre, grandsons Neil and John Greskiewicz, nieces and nephews.

Funeral will be held Friday at 8:45 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street  Plains, PA  18705, with at Mass of Christian Burial at 9:30 am in Our Lady of Hope Parish, St. Mary’s Maternity Church, 40 Park Avenue Wilkes-Barre, PA  18702.  Interment will be held in Mount Olivet Cemetery, Carverton section of Wyoming. 

Friends may call Thursday from 5:00 to 7:00 pm at the funeral home.

 

Anna M. Stubbs
Died April 21, 2013

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Anna M. Stubbs, 100, of Warrior Run, died Sunday morning at her home with her family by her side.

Born in Warrior Run, May 12, 1912, she was the daughter of the late Matthew & Josephine Shalanski. She attended Warrior Run schools and was employed as a seamstress in the local Garment Industry.

Anna was a member of Holy Family Church, Sugar Notch, and the International Ladies Garment Workers Union.

She was preceded in death by her husband William; Children William Stubbs, Carol Burrier, Nancy Romanowski. Brothers Anthony Shans, Benjamin Shulanski; Sister, Madeline Lollo; Granddaughter, Michele Stubbs and Grandson David Stubbs.

Surviving are her Grandchildren Sheila Mooney and husband Joseph with whom she resided; Richard Burrier and wife Debbie, Lisa Devaney and husband Tom, John Romanowski and wife Ruth, William Romanowski and wife Joyce, Rhonda Mock, Michael Stubbs, Debra Ward. Brother Joseph Shalanski, Weatherly Pa., Half-Brother and Sister, Victor Yanasheski and Lillian Sokoloski; 14 great-grandchildren; nephews and nieces.

Funeral will be held Thursday at 9:45 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street Plains, with a Mass of Christian Burial at Holy Family Church, Sugar Notch. Interment will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Hanover Township.

Friends may call Wednesday from 6 to 8 pm at the funeral home.

 

Leon J. Belles
Died April 21, 2013

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Leon J. Belles, 68, of Plains Township, died Sunday morning at the home of his daughter with his family by his side.

Born in Plains, he was the son of the late Paul and Helen (Kelly) Belles, and was a graduate of Plains Memorial High School class of 1964. Leon was an Army Veteran of the Vietnam War receiving the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with 2 Bronze Stars.  He was a member of the Plains American Legion, Joseph E. Conlon Post 558, Plains.

Leon was employed as a laborer until his retirement.

He was a member of Polish American Veterans, Henry Citizens Club, of Plains, Twp. and St. Benedicts Parish, Parsons.

Leon enjoyed Baseball and Basketball but his greatest Love was his Grandchildren.

Preceding him in death in addition to his Mother & Father was his Nephew, Jason McNeil.

Surviving are his Daughters Kimberly Belles of Wilkes-Barre and companion Thomas Regan Jr., and Tracy Ornoski and Husband Michael, Wilkes-Barre; Grandchildren Katie and Emily Dickson and Gavin Regan; Sisters and Brother, Dorothy Mazur, Wyoming; Richard Belles and Wife Betty Ann, of Suscon; Paulette Weeks and her husband Ray; Lorraine Giovannini and her husband Ted and Shirley McNeil and her husband Rodney all of Plains; Nephews and Nieces, Uncles and Aunts.

Funeral will be held Wednesday at 10:30 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street Plains with a Mass of Christian Burial at 11 am in St. Benedicts Parish St. Dominick’s Church, 155 Austin Avenue Parsons. Interment with Military Honors will be held in Chapel Lawn Memorial Park, Dallas.

Family and Friends may call Tuesday evening from 4 to 7 pm at the funeral home.

Memorial donations if desired may be made to St. Benedict Parish, St. Dominick’s Church,  155 Austin Avenue, Wilkes-Barre, Pa. 18702.

 

Mary W. Pappas
Died April 13, 2013

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Mary Wanda Pappas, 78, of Wilkes-Barre, died Saturday evening at Fairview Care Center, Philadelphia.

Born August 5, 1934 in Shickshinny, Mary was the daughter of the late Joseph and Wanda Elizabeth (Prymankiewicz) Delikat.  She was preceded in death by her husband, George R. Pappas.

Mary supported her family by working in a variety of manufacturing industries, such as making transistors for RCA, and later sewing in local clothing factories.  After retiring,  she sold a variety of crafts and other items at an Exeter flea market.
Mary was a member of Holy Cross Polish National Catholic Church, Wilkes-Barre.  She was an avid reader and enjoyed working with crafts.

Mary is survived by her son Steven Pappas and his wife Malia of Springfield, Virginia, Brother, William Delikat of Levittown, PA, sisters Patricia Mecir of Hazleton and Ann Wolfe of Bristol, PA, aunt Stella Kamon of Michigan, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Viewing will be held Wednesday morning for family and friends from 10:00  to 12:00 am at the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street  Plains, PA  18705.  Funeral services will be conducted at the Corcoran Funeral home, and will take place immediately after the viewing.  The Very Rev. Thaddeus Dymkowski, Pastor of Holy Cross Polish National Catholic Church, will officiate. Interment will be held in Oak Lawn Cemetery, Wilkes-Barre.

Memorial donations if desired may be made to Holy Cross Polish National Church, 23 Sheridan Street, Wilkes-Barre.

 

Jacqueline L. Budzinski
Died April 7, 2013

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Jacqueline L. Budzinski, 43 of Wilkes-Barre, passed away Sunday morning at the Wilkes-Barre General Hospital after suffering a brain aneurysm on Friday evening.

Born in Wilkes-Barre, she was the daughter of Theresa (Telencio) Budzinski of Plains, Twp., and the late Peter Budzinski, Jr.

Jacqueline attended G.A.R. High School, Wilkes-Barre, and was employed as a manager for Big Lots!, East End Center, Wilkes-Barre.  Jacqueline enjoyed spending time at the Mohegan Sun Casino, her place for enjoyment and relaxation.

She was preceded in death by her father Peter M. Budzinski, Jr., on April 29, 2011.

Surviving in addition to her mother Theresa Budzinski are her children Alicia Kandrac, Wilkes-Barre, Michael Budzinski, Plymouth, and Kevin Kandrac, Wilkes-Barre, husband Kevin Kandrac, Wilkes-Barre, grandchildren Katrina Budzinski, Michael Budzinski, Jr., and Amari Wade, Sister Catherine Kreidler, Plymouth.

Jacqueline’s wishes were to be an organ donor and give the gift of life to others who may benefit from her generosity.

Funeral Services for Jacqueline will be held Thursday at 7:00 pm at the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street  Plains, PA  18705.  Interment will be held at the convenience of the family.

Friends may call Thursday evening from 5:00 to 7:00 pm at the funeral home.

 

Walter F. Haczewski
Died April 8, 2013

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Walter F. Haczewski, 86 of Plains, Twp., passed away Monday morning at the Homewood at Plum Creek Nursing Home, Hanover, PA, where he had recently been a resident.

Born in Wilkes-Barre, PA, he was the son of the late John & Sadie (Friday) Haczewski.

Walter was a graduate of Plains Memorial High School, Class of 1944 and was a Navy Veteran of World War II, attaining the rank of Radioman 3rd Class.  Upon his discharge from the service at the end of World War II, Walter enrolled at Wilkes College, Wilkes-Barre, graduating in 1950 with a BS degree in Accounting. He was employed by Roth Novelty Co., of Wilkes-Barre as an accountant and company manager.

Walter was a devote Catholic and was a lifelong member of Sacred Heart Church, Plains, until it s merger with SS. Peter & Paul Church in 2010.  At Sacred Heart Church, he was a Eucharistic Minister and a Senior Acolyte.    He was a member of the Plains American Legion, Joseph E. Conlon, Post 558 for 63 years, and the AARP.  Walter also took great pride in his gardening skills.  His home and yard on North Main Street was always beautiful to the eye and always well manicured.  He and his wife Josephine loved to go on their “Polka Excursions” for days at a time.

He was preceded in death by his brother John Haczewski, sisters Sophie Baltusavich, Florence “Flossy” Haczewski, Stella Shatowskas, and Theresa Eveland. 

Surviving are his wife of 62 years the former Josephine A. Ferrara, sons John Haczewski and his wife  Mary Jo, Littlestown,  PA, Frank Haczewski and his wife  Suzanne, Kalispell, MT, Joseph Haczewski and his wife Donna, Gettysburg, PA and Walter Haczewski and his wife Janet, Oxford, PA,
10 grandchildren, 2 great-grandchildren, Brother Joseph Haczewski, Plains, and Sister Josephine Mahal in Levittown, several nieces and nephews.

Funeral Services for Walter will be held Thursday at 9:00 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street Plains, PA  18705, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 9:30 am in SS. Peter & Paul Church, 13 Hudson Road, Plains, PA  18705.  Interment with Military Honors by the Plains American Legion Funeral Detail will be held in Sacred Heart Cemetery, Plains. 

Friends may call Wednesday from 6:00 to 8:00 pm at the funeral home.

Memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Association, 57 North Franklin Street, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18701-1309 in Walter’s memory.

 

Rita M. Nesler
Died April 7, 2013

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Rita M. Nelser, 93, of Bear Creek, died Sunday morning at Little Flower Manor with her family by her side.

Born in Wilkes- Barre, she was the daughter of the late Thomas and Florence Rafferty Egan.

Rita was a graduate of James M. Coughlin High School, Wilkes-Barre, Class of 1938, was a homemaker all her life and was a faithful member of St. Elizabeth Church, Bear Creek.

Rita was preceded in death by her husband Emmett T. Nesler on October 5, 2010; also preceding her in death was her Brothers Jack & Thomas Egan and Sister Catherine Kopack.

Surviving are her Sister Ann Hannagan, Bear Creek; several Nephews and Nieces.

The family would like to thank the entire staff of Little Flower Manor for all the love and care they have given to Rita and all of her family.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held for Rita at the convenience of the family followed by interment in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Hanover Township.

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

 

Nicholas G. Rusenko
Died April 4, 2013

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Nicholas G. Rusenko, 48 of the Miners Mills section of Wilkes-Barre, passed away Thursday morning at the Wilkes-Barre General Hospital after suffering a seizure.

Nick was born in Wilkes-Barre, son of Catherine (Shovlin) Rusenko of Miners Mills, and the late Harry Rusenko.

Nick was a graduate of Elmer L. Meyers High School, Wilkes-Barre, and was employed at the VA Medical Center, Plains, Twp., and the Wilkes-Barre Area School District.  He was a member of Our Lady of Fatima Parish, St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception Church, Wilkes-Barre, where he was also a member of the Holy Name Society, served as an Eucharistic Minister, and was A Senior Acolyte. 

Nick loved to travel locally as well as abroad.  One of his happiest memories was traveling to Rome with his mother who was his most cherished person in the world.  Nick and Catherine could always be seen together, whether be at church, out to dinner, or just around town together.                           

He was preceded in death by his father Harry Rusenko on August 26, 2002, grandparents Capitola and Nicholas Rusenko and Abie and Bernard Shovlin, aunt Bernadine Johnson.

Surviving are his mother Catherine Rusenko, with whom he resided, Godmother Carol Rossi and her husband Don, several cousins.

Nick’s funeral will be held Monday at 8:45 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street  Plains, PA  18705 with a Mass of Christian burial at 9:30 am in St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception  Church, 134 Washington Street  Wilkes-Barre, PA  18703, with Monsignor Thomas V. Banick, pastor, officiating.   Entombment will be held in the parish cemetery, Hanover Twp.

Friends may call Sunday from   2:00 to 5:00 pm  at the funeral home.

Memorial donations may be made to St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception  Church, 134 Washington Street  Wilkes-Barre, PA  18703  in Nick’s memory.

 

Barbara M. Kozak
Died March 29, 2013

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Barbara M. Kozak, 48 of Plains Twp., passed away Good Friday, March 29, 2013 at Hospice Community Care, Geisinger South, Wilkes-Barre.

Born in Wilkes-Barre, she was the daughter of Sylvia (Stefanowicz) Kozak of Kingston, and the late Michael Kozak.

Barbara was a graduate of James M. Coughlin High School, Wilkes-Barre, Class of 1982 and Luzerne County Community College, Nanticoke, Class of 1992.  Barbara was a Navy Veteran, serving her country from 1984 to 1988 and was employed in retail management from various corporations.  Currently she was enrolled in college for a degree in hospital administration.

Barbara was a loving woman who had many hobbies and loves.  She enjoyed sewing and long walks, especially on the beach; family gatherings where she could socialize with the people she loved.  She enjoyed singing, dancing, and gardening, especially her roses.  She loved dressing up and being pampered and touched the lives of everyone she met.  Barbara left an impression on people, whether she knew you for years or just for a few minutes. 

Surviving are her daughter Lacey M. Silva, Harrisburg, mother Sylvia Kozak, Kingston, Fiancée John Pechal, Plains, brothers Michael Kozak, Pittsburgh, and Wayne Kozak, West Virginia, sisters Deborah McGuire and her husband Mark, Exeter, Michelle Syms, Plains, and Richelle Metzger and her daughter Nadia,  Mountaintop, several nieces & nephews.

Funeral Services with Military Honors will be held Saturday, April 6, 2013, at 10:00 am at the Back Mountain Harvest Assembly, 340 Carverton Road, Shavertown, PA  18708, with Rev. Jack Rahill, Pastor, officiating.  Interment will be 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 the Back Mountain Harvest Assembly, 340 Carverton Road, Shavertown, PA  18708.

 

Jean M. Shimshock
Died March 29, 2013

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Jean Marie Shimshock, 72 of Plains Twp., passed away Good Friday, March 29, 2013, at Hospice Community Care, Geisinger South, Wilkes-Barre, after a lengthy illness.

Jean was born in Plains, daughter of the late John & Helen (Falkowski) Kuzminski.

She was a graduate of Sacred Heart High School, Plains, Class of 1958, and Mercy School of Nursing, Wilkes-Barre.  Jean was employed as a Licensed Practical Nurse at St. Agnes Hospital, Baltimore, Maryland.  She was a member of SS. Peter & Paul  Church, Plains.

Jean was preceded in death by her husband of 51 years Matthew J. Shimshock, Jr., who passed away 9 ½ weeks ago on January 21.  Although we are saddened by our mother’s passing, we are comforted by her reunion with our dad in eternal life.

Jean is survived by son, David Shimshock and his wife Lisa, Plains; Daughter Donna Shimshock, Plains; Daughter Lisa Mimnaugh and husband Daniel, Jenkins Township;   6 grandchildren: Jade and Matthew Shimshock; Kasey and McKenzie McDonough, Madison and Grace Mimnaugh.  As well as great-grandchild Emily McDonough. 
Jean requested that her funeral services be private and held at the convenience of her family.  Arrangements by the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street  Plains, PA  18705.

 

Michael J. Costanza
Died March 26, 2013

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Michael J. Costanza, 59, of Laflin, Pa., passed away Tuesday evening at The University of Pennsylvania Hospital, Philadelphia.

Born in Ocean City New Jersey, he was the son of the late Nazzareno and Josephine (DeMatteo) Costanza and was a graduate of Holy Spirit High School, Abescon, New Jersey and attended the University of Scranton and graduated from Stockton State College, Galloway, New Jersey.

Michael was employed as Vice-President of Sales for McCarthy Tire of Wilkes-Barre and was very active in the community.

He was a member and former CEO of the Music Box Theatre, Swoyersville, Past President Wilkes-Barre Rotary where he was honored with the Paul Harris Fellow, highest award in Rotary, a member of the Bishop Hoban High School Parents Club and also served on the Advisory Council, coached Boys & Girls Basketball for St. Nicholas/St. Mary’s Elementary School, Varsity coach at St. Mary’s Assumption Elementary School,  and was Sports Club President of St Nichols Parish.
Michael served on the CYC Board of Directors, Big Brothers Big Sisters Board of Directors, and was a PIAA official and a member of the Board of Directors, He was President of the Coal Club of Philadelphia and was a finalist in the Times Leader Jefferson Award for Public Service.

Surviving are his wife of 34 years the former Jane Frank, Laflin, Daughter Lauren Haynes and her husband Alexander, Riverside, R.I., son, Michael F. Costanza, Philadelphia, Brothers Carmen Costanza and his wife Antoinette, Egg Harbor Twp. N. J., Thomas Costanza and his wife Kari, Federal Way, Washington, and Sister Barbara Riggione and her husband Ken,  Ocean City, N.J.,  several nephews and nieces, Father-In Law, Joseph Frank, Laflin.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Tuesday at 11 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.
Visitation will be held Monday evening from 4 to 7 pm in St. Maria Goretti Church  42 Redwood Drive  Laflin, PA  18702.

In Lieu of flowers Memorial Donations if desired may be made to the CYC of Wilkes-Barre c/o  36 South Washington Street  Wilkes-Barre, PA  18701 or Big Brothers Big Sisters c/o  33 E. Northampton Street  Wilkes-Barre, PA  18701.
Arrangements by the Corcoran Funeral Home Inc. 20 South Main Street Plains, PA  18705.

 

Louis C. O’Brien
Died March 26, 2013

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Louis C. O’Brien, 89 of Plains Twp., passed away Tuesday morning at the Wilkes-Barre General Hospital.

Louis was born March 22, 1924, the son of the late Eugene L. and Estar (Lamade) O’Brien in Williamsport, PA.  Louis attended schools in Camden, New Jersey and was a graduate of the University Of Notre Dame.  He served in the U.S. Navy as a Commissioned Officer (LT JG) during World War II. 

He was employed as a sales engineer in the electrical distribution business for G.E. and Annesco before retiring in 1989.

He was preceded in death by his son Timothy Patrick, sisters Phyllis Ayers, and Betty Bragg.

Surviving are his wife the former Lieselotte Werle, Plains, daughters Sharon O’Brien, Long Island, NY, and Debra Bonebrake, Waynesboro, MD, and his son Louis C. O’Brien, Jr., Harrisburg; grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Louis requested that there be no fuss over his departure and that his funeral services be private among his family members with interment in Indiantown Gap National Cemetery, Annville, PA.

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

 

Keith B. Maxwell
Died March 18, 2013

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Keith B. Maxwell, 51 of Wilkes-Barre, passed away Monday morning at his home.

Born in Wilkes-Barre, he was the son of the late Henry & Ruth (Phillips) Maxwell.

Keith was a graduate of G.A.R. Memorial High School, Wilkes-Barre, class of 1980, and Luzerne County Community College, Nanticoke.  Keith was a Licensed Practical Nurse and was employed as a Union Carpenter for Local 645, Scranton.  He was an Army Veteran of Operation Desert Storm, attaining the rank of SGT. 1st Class, serving with the 300th Field Hospital, Hanover, PA.

He was a member of the Polish Club, Hudson section of Plains, Twp., and was an avid hunter and fisherman.  Keith enjoyed spending time in his garden and was always on the lookout for a bargain while shopping.  He loved to watch football and was an avid Pittsburgh Steelers Fan.

Surviving are his son Jeffrey Maxwell, Pringle, Fiancée Patricia Krushnowski, Wilkes-Barre, former wife Michelle Maxwell, Pringle, Brothers Thomas Maxwell and his wife Barbara, Inkerman, Mitchell Maxwell  and his wife Sally, Hanover Twp., Kenneth Maxwell, Wilkes-Barre, sister Molly Gentile and her companion Barry Dervinis, Wilkes-Barre, grandson Alex Krushnowski, nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial with Military Honors will be held Saturday at 9:00 am at SS. Peter & Paul Church, 13 Hudson Road, Plains.  Friends are invited to go directly to church Saturday morning.  Interment will be held at the convenience of the family in Maple Hill Cemetery, Wilkes-Barre.

Friends may call Friday evening from 5 to 8 pm at the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street, Plains, PA  18705.

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

 

Elliot Riccetti
Died March 17, 2013

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Elliot Riccetti, 72, formerly of Pittston Township, died Sunday morning in the Hospice Unit, Regional Hospital of Scranton.

Born in the Browntown section of Pittston Township, he was the son of the late Joseph and Mary (Augustine) Riccetti and was educated in Pittston Township schools.

Elliot was a coal miner working in the area mines.

In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his Brother Edmund J. Riccetti and his Sister Eleanor Biscontini.

Surviving are his Sister in Law Jean Riccetti, Plains, Niece Debra Dominick, Harvey’s Lake, Nephews John Biscontini, Pittston and Mark Riccetti, Plains; Great Nephews and Nieces.

Funeral Services will be held Wednesday at 10:00 am at the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street Plains, PA  18705.  Interment will be held in the Italian Independent Cemetery, West Wyoming. 

There will be no calling hours.

 

Thomas E. Kustrin
Died March 16, 2013

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Thomas E. Kustrin, 91 of the Brookside section of Wilkes-Barre, passed away Saturday afternoon, March 16, 2013, at Commonwealth Hospice of Wilkes-Barre at St. Luke’s Villa, Wilkes-Barre, after a lengthy illness.

Thomas was born May 17, 1921 in Plains, Twp., the son of the late Edward and Frances (Hale) Kustrin. 

He was educated in Plains schools, and proudly worked in the Civilian Conservation Corps before enlisting in the U.S. Army in 1942.  He was an Army Veteran of World War II and was a Purple Heart recipient.  He was then employed at the VA Hospital until his retirement. 

He was a member of the Parish Community of North East Wilkes-Barre, St. Andre Bessette Parish.  Thomas played Semi-Professional baseball in the New Mexico Semi-Pro League and was an avid St. Louis Cardinal Baseball fan. 

He was preceded in death by his wife Marie (Bilski) Kustrin on December 14, 2002, his brother William Kustrin, sisters Marie Griffith and Elizabeth Roberts.

Surviving are his son Joseph Kustrin and his wife Colleen, Lehman, daughter Patricia DeAlba and her husband William, Plains, grandchildren Daniel DeAlba, Cody, Kylie and Noah Kustrin, Sister Margaret Alcorn, Cookville, Tennessee, several nieces and nephews.

The family would like to thank the staff of Riverview Ridge and Commonwealth Hospice for their devoted care of Thomas.

Funeral will be held Tuesday 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 St. Andre Bessette Parish, St. Stanislaus Kostka Church, North Main Street, Wilkes-Barre.  Interment with Military Honors will be held in Mount Olivet Cemetery, Carverton section of Wyoming.

Friends may call Monday evening from 6:00 to 8:00 pm at the funeral home.

 

Patrick J. Dalessandro
Died March 5, 2013

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Patrick J. Dalessandro, 89, of Plains Township, passed away Tuesday afternoon at Gino J. Merli Veterans Center, Scranton, where he had been a resident for the past year.

Born in Old Boston, Jenkins Township, he was the son of the late Joseph and Vincentina (Ciaccia) Dalessandro.

Pat attended Jenkins Township High School and was resident of Plains most of his life. 
He was an Army Veteran of World War II, serving with the 9th Infantry Division in the European Theatre of Operations. While engaging the enemy, he was wounded in combat and received the Purple Heart Medal.

He was employed as a truck driver for Just Trucking, Nachlis Furniture, and last for Gigliello Trucking until his retirement.

Pat was a member of SS. Peter & Paul Church, Plains.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 54 years the former Sara “Sadie” Ristagno on July 16, 2002, brothers Charles and James Dalessandro, sisters Mary Rowe, Philomina “Mamie” Murray, and Clara Trotta.

Surviving are his son Patrick Delasandro and his wife Ann Marie, Plains, daughter Jeanne Stine and her husband Bruce, Harvey’s Lake, grandchildren Annette Delasandro and her husband Ken Johnson, Wilkes-Barre, Patrick Delasandro, Pickerington, Ohio, and Andrew Delasandro and his wife Julie, Springville, NY, great-grandchildren Andrew, Matthew, and Addison Delasandro, several nieces and nephews.

Funeral will be held Monday at 9:00 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street Plains, PA  18705, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 9:30 am in SS. Peter & Paul Church, Plains.  Interment with Military Honors will be held in the Parish Cemetery, Plains.

Friends may call Sunday from 5:00 to 7:00 pm at the funeral home.

 

Mary Ann Kelly
Died March 4, 2013

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Mary Ann Kelly, 61, of Plains Township, died Monday evening at her home.

Born in Pittston, she was the daughter of the late Anthony Moncavage and Frances (Dougherty) Moncavage-Gilroy.

Mary Ann attended Plains Memorial High School and was mostly a homemaker all of her life and was employed as a seamstress for Leslie Fay of Plains.

Mary Ann was very talented and creative and loved to make crafts and homemade items for her family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband William Kelly on November 1, 2008; Sister Margaret Murphy on February 25, 2013; Brothers Tony and John Moncavage.

Surviving are her Son Michael Kelly, Kentucky and Daughter Kathy Kelly, Plains,            Grandchildren Robert, Samantha and Heather Troy; Sisters Patricia Stavinski, Lansdale, Frances Lewis and her husband Stephen, Upper Darby and Rose Dreabit and her Husband Robert, Plains; Nephews and Nieces.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Friday at 9:30 am in SS. Peter & Paul Church Plains. Friends and family are asked to go directly to church Friday morning.  Interment will be held at the convenience of the family.

Friends may call Thursday  evening from 6:00 to 8:00 pm  at the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc.,  20 South Main Street Plains, PA  18705.

 

Marian C. Spagnola
Died March 5, 2013

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Marian C. Spagnola, 90, of the Miners Mills section of Wilkes-Barre, died Monday afternoon at River Street Manor Nursing Home.

Born in the Parsons section of Wilkes-Barre, she was the daughter of the late Anthony and Natalie (Adamitis) Plioplis.

She was a graduate of James M. Coughlin High School, Wilkes-Barre, and was a lifelong member of St. Francis Church, Miners Mills. She was a member of St. Francis Choir and its Altar & Rosary Society.

Marian was employed for the Wilkes-Barre School District until her retirement.

She was preceded in death by her Husband of 68 years Robert L. Spagnola on May 26, 2012; Son Anthony and granddaughter Ann Marie; Sister Natalie Zehosky.

Surviving are her Daughters Mary Carol Spagnola, Plains; Terese Williams and Husband Ric, Montgomery, Pa. Grandchildren Brian and his Wife Linda; Michael, Scott, Melissa and Jessica Williams; Great-Grandchildren; Kelsey, Santino “Sonny”, Ruby and Eva Williams; Nephews and Nieces.

Funeral services will be held Friday at 6:00 pm  from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc. 20 South Main Street Plains. Interment will be held at the convenience of the family. 

Friends may call Friday afternoon from 4 to 6 pm at the funeral home.

Memorial donations if desired may be to the charity of one’s choice.

 

Elizabeth M. Clark
Died February 28, 2013

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Elizabeth M. Clark, 90, of Wilkes-Barre, and formerly of Ashuelot, New Hampshire, died Thursday at Mercy Center, Dallas.

Born in Fogelsville, Pa. she was the daughter of the late Samuel and Helen (Saba) Kasper.

Elizabeth was a graduate of Elmer L. Meyers High School and was employed for the Social Security until her retirement.

She was preceded in death by her Brothers Michael, David and Louis Kasper.
Surviving are her Sister Helen Kasper, Wilkes-Barre, Nephews and Nieces.
According to Elizabeth’s wishes Funeral Services will be private and 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.

 

Anne Marie Gurnari
Died February 28, 2013

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Anne Marie Gurnari, 74 of the Miners Mills section of Wilkes-Barre, passed away Thursday morning at St. Luke’s Villa, Wilkes-Barre.

Born in Wilkes-Bare, she was the daughter of the late Stanley & Marie (Hale) Zimmerman.

She was a graduate of James M. Coughlin High School, Wilkes-Barre, Class of 1955, and was employed as a seamstress for Leslie Fay, Plains Twp., Gail’s Fashions of Miners Mills, and for the Wyoming Valley Health Care System. 

She was a member of Blessed Sacrament Church, Miners Mills, and its Altar and Rosary Society, and a current member of St. Benedict Parish, Parsons; secretary of the Miners Mills Little League, and was a member of the Miners Mills Crime Watch.

She and her husband Alfred J. Gurnari celebrated their 52nd wedding anniversary on June 27, 2012.

She was preceded in death by her brother Jack Zimmerman.

Surviving in addition to her husband Al, are her children Nina Deno and her husband Lloyd, Ashley, Alan Gurnari, Wilkes-Barre, Patti Zendarski and her husband Bob, Glen Lyon, and Joseph “Jody” Gurnari and his wife Bobbi Jo, Hudson, 10 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren, sister Rita Mercado, Scranton, aunt Jule Novak, Kingston, nieces and nephews.

Funeral will be held Monday at 9:30 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street  Plains, PA  18705, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 am in SS. Peter & Paul Church, Plains.  Interment will be held in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Hanover Twp.  Friends may call Sunday from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Luke’s Villa, 80 E. Northampton Street  Wilkes-Barre, PA  18702.

 

Kenneth H. Dautrich, Jr.
Died February 27, 2013

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Kenneth H. Dautrich, Jr., 77 of Plains, Twp., passed away Wednesday afternoon at Commonwealth Hospice at St. Luke’s Villa, Wilkes-Barre.

Born in Reading, PA, he was the son of the late Kenneth H. and Jane (Driscoll) Dautrich. 

He moved to Berwick and was a graduate Berwick High School and Wilkes-Barre Business College.  Kenneth was an Army Veteran of the Korean Conflict serving from 1952 to 1956. 

He was employed for many years at Williams Bakery and retired from Stroehman’s Bakery and most recently worked at Pediatria, Wilkes-Barre. He was a former member of St. John the Evangelist Church, Wilkes-Barre, the North End Slovak Club, and was an avid Dodger Fan.  He touched the lives of all who knew him with his gentle ways and love for his family and friends.  He was always there for everyone.  His passing leaves a great void. We Love You, Bert!

He was preceded in death by his brother Daniel Dautrich.

Surviving are his wife of 54 years, the former Vicki Prebola , Plains, daughter Karen Chmielewski and her husband Rick, Wilkes-Barre, son Ken Dautrich and his wife Marybeth, Mansfield Center, CT,  grandchildren Jill DeAnthony and her husband Jeff, Shavertown, Kenny Dautrich, Philadelphia,  Allison Dautrich, CT,  great-grandchildren Katelyn, Jeffrey, Justin, and Abigail DeAnthony, sisters Joan Samsel and her husband Donald, Conway, SC, and Jean Markley and her husband John Sauquoit, NY, brother Tom Dautrich and his wife Joan, Lancaster, sister-in-law Joanne Dautrich, Berwick, many nieces & nephew.

Funeral Services will be held Saturday, March 16, 2013 at 11:00 am at the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street, Plains, PA  18705.  Interment will be held in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Hanover Twp., at the convenience of the family.  Friends may call from 10:00 am till 11:00 at the funeral home the morning of the services.

In Lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Memorial donations may be made to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network  2141 Rosecrans Avenue  Suite 7000 El Segundo, CA  90245.

 

Margaret “Maggie” Murphy
Died February 25, 2013

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Margaret “Maggie” Murphy, 68 of Plains, Twp., passed away Monday morning at Geisinger Wyoming Valley, Plains, Twp., after a courageous battle with Leukemia, with her family at her side.

Born in Pittston, she was the daughter of the late Anthony S. Moncavage and Frances (Dougherty) Moncavage Gilroy.

Maggie was educated in Pittston Area schools and was a graduate of McCann School of Business.  Maggie was employed as a seamstress for Leslie Fay, Plains, Twp., and for Kranson Clothes, Wilkes-Barre, until her retirement.  She was a member of SS. Peter & Paul Church, Plains.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 39 years, William “Murph” Murphy on January 4, 2011, son Timothy Murphy, and her brothers Tony and John Moncavage.

Surviving are her children Susan Price and her husband Kenneth, Plains, Mary Frances Rinehimer and her husband Eric, Kingston, Karen Roxby and her husband Daryl, Plains and Patrick Murphy and his wife Missy, Spanish Fort, Alabama, Grandchildren Jolene Price, Timothy Young, Kenny Price and Cody and Kiersten Rinehimer, sisters Mary Ann Kelly, Plains, Patricia Stavinski, Lansdale, Frances Lewis and her husband Stephen, Upper Darby, and Rose Dreabit and her husband Robert, Plains, 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 Sacred Heart Cemetery, Plains. 

Friends may call Thursday from 5 to 8 pm at the funeral home.

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

 

Theresa A. Holub
Died February 24, 2013

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Theresa A. Holub, 82 of Plains, Twp., passed away Sunday evening at her home.

Born in Plains, she was the daughter of the late Michael & Ann (Ference) Sierko.

Theresa was a graduate of Plains Memorial High School, and was employed as a waitress for the Plains American Legion, Joseph E. Conlon, Post 558, for 28 years.  She was a member of SS. Peter & Paul Church, Plains.

She was preceded in death by her twin brother John Francis Sierko, sister Nellie Malachefski, and her sister-in-law Florence Sierko.

Surviving are her husband Edward P. Holub, with whom she would have celebrated 60 years of marriage with on April 25, 2013, son Edward Holub, Jr., and his wife Lee Ann, Luzerne, grandchildren Courtney Kotarski, and Justin Kotarski and his wife Nicole, great-grandsons Hunter and Gavin Kotarski, brother Stanley Sierko, Plains, 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 held in the parish cemetery, Plains.

Friends may call Wednesday from 5 to 8 pm at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to SS. Peter & Paul Church, 13 Hudson Road  Plains, PA  18705.

 

Sadie T. Guerra
Died February 21, 2013

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Sadie T. Guerra, 88, of the Hilldale section of Plains Township, passed away Thursday morning at Grand View Hospital, Sellersville, Pa.
Sadie was born in Hilldale on November 1, 1924 and was the daughter of the late Rinaldo and Maria (Venturini) Guili.

Sadie was a life resident of Plains and prior to her retirement worked in the local garment industry working for J&R dress for 28 years.
She was a member of SS.Peter & Paul Church Plains and the International Ladies Garment Workers Union.

Sadie was preceded in death by her Husband of 63 year Albert Guerra; Brothers, Louis and Levio Guili and her Sister Louise Parrino.

Surviving are her Daughter Paulette “Penny” Petro and her Husband Robert, Souderton, Pa., Grandchildren Rob Petro and his Wife Wendy, Doylestown; Robyn Malone and her Husband Dr. Stephen, Wilmington, Delaware; Great-grandchildren Stephanie, Tyler and Trent Petro; Maddie, Meghan and Matthew Malone; Sisters, Eleanor Ciechowski, Alhambra California; Linda Leonardi, Apple Valley California and Lillian Burtner, Maricopa, Arizona; Several nephews and nieces.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Monday at 9:30 am in SS. Peter & Paul Church, Plains. Family and friends are asked to go directly to SS. Peter & Paul Church Monday morning. Interment will be in the Italian Independent Cemetery, West Wyoming.
Friends may call Sunday from 4 to 6 pm at the Corcoran Funeral Home Inc. 20 South Main Street Plains.

In lieu of flowers donations if desired may be made to the Grand View Hospital Hospice 700 Lawn Avenue Sellersville, Pa. 18960.

 

 

Charles P. Yurgaitis
Died February 19, 2013

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Charles P. Yurgaitis, 89 of Plains, Twp., passed away Tuesday afternoon at Golden Living Center, East Mountain Manor, Plains, Twp.

Born in Wilkes-Barre Township, he was the son of the late Charles & Frances (Sadauskas) Yurgaitis.

Charles was educated in Wilkes-Barre Township Schools, and was an Army Veteran of World War II.  He was employed for Muskin Pools in Customer Service or 25 years until his retirement.  He was a member of the Plains American Legion, Joseph E. Conlon, Post 558.

He was preceded in death by his wife the former Jean Rehrig, brothers Joseph and John Yurgaitis, sisters Eva Yacalavitch, Catherine Salvage, Anna Skuba, Frances Pissott, Mary Yurgaitis, Elizabeth Mikush, and Marcella Jenkins.

Surviving are his son Charles Yurgaitis and his wife Mary, Hanover Twp., grandchildren Brandi and Charlene, great-grandchildren Sabrina, Dasani, and Rodney, beloved companion Stella Dudzik, with whom he resided, niece Mary Yaple, several nieces and nephews.

Funeral Services for Charles 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.

 

Joseph P. Barba
Died February 19, 2013

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Joseph P. Barba, 71 of the Browntown section of Pittston Twp., passed away Tuesday morning at his home with his family by his side after a courageous battle with Pancreatic Cancer.

Born in Pittston, he was the son of the late Joseph and Nellie (Dominick) Barba.

Joseph was a graduate of Pittston Township High School, class of 1959, and served in the United States Army Reserve.  He was employed for Topps Chewing Co., Mauer & Scott, Pittston, and for Wyoming Valley Blasting Co., Plains, until his retirement. 

He was a member of St. Joseph Marello Parish, William Street, Pittston.

He was preceded in death by his brothers Charles Barba, Sr. and Alfonso Barba, Sisters Sara Milazzo.             

Surviving are his wife of 47 years the former Joan J. Bonanni, daughters Rochelle Meek and her husband Michael, Rio Rancho, New Mexico, and Sue Ann Shamnoski and her husband William, Pittston, son Joseph A. Barba and his wife Nettie, Exeter, grandchildren Joseph Preston Barba, Matthew Shamnoski,  Steven Shamnoski, and Morgan Jane Meek, sister Josephine Cordora, Pittston, and brother Frank Barba, Albany, NY, several nieces and nephews.

Joseph’s family would like to thanks the oncology department of Geisinger Medical Center for their care and support and Celtic Home Care for their wonderful care of Joseph.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Friday at 9:30 am in St. Joseph Marello Parish, William Street, Pittston.  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 Celtic Home Care  C/O    325 Wyoming Avenue  Kingston, PA  18704.

 

Mary (Langan) Sulla
Died February 17, 2013

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Mary (Langan) Sulla, 56, of Inkerman, passed away Sunday morning at Geisinger Wyoming Valley, Plains Township, after suffering a heart attack at home.
Born in Inkerman, she was the daughter of the late Thomas and Mae (Gorman) Langan.

Mary was a graduate of St. John’s High School, Pittston and was employed in the finance department of Nabisco Corporation until her disability.
She was a member of St. John The Evangelist Church, Pittston.
Mary was preceded in death by her Sister Ann Langan on January 8, 2005.
Surviving are her husband Angelo Sulla, with whom she shared 24 loving years of marriage with, Inkerman; Sons Christopher and Thomas Sulla, at home.

Family and friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial, Thursday, February 21, 2013, at 9:30 am in St. John the Evangelist Church Pittston. Memorial donations if desired may be made to the SPCA of Luzerne County C/O Fox Hill Road, Plains, Pa.
Arrangements by the Corcoran Funeral Home Inc. 20 South Main Street, Plains, Pa.

 

Peter E. Dziedzic
Died February 14, 2013

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Peter E. Dziedzic, 81, formerly of Miners Mills, passed away peacefully Thursday afternoon at Commonwealth Hospice, St. Luke’s Villa, Wilkes-Barre, with his family by his side.

Born in the Miners Mills section of Wilkes-Barre, he was the son of the late Peter and Eva (Bomba) Dziedzic.

Pete attended James M. Coughlin High School, Wilkes-Barre, and was an Air Force Veteran of the Korean Conflict and also served in the Connecticut National Guard.  He was employed as a welder for Foster-Wheeler of Mountaintop and Air Products of Wilkes-Barre, until his retirement, and was a member of SS. Peter & Paul Church, Plains.

He was preceded in death by his wife the former Mary Ann Olsakowski in 1988, brothers Benjamin, Edward, and Chester Dziedzic, sisters Mary Kroll, and Sophie Czernota.

Surviving are his daughter Karen Marie Johns, Dallas, grandson William Peter Johns, Pringle, sisters Stella Cybulski, Hudson, Theodora Golden, Wilkes-Bare, many 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 SS. Peter & Paul Church, Plains.  Interment will be held in the parish cemetery. 

Friends may call Monday from 5 to 7 pm at the funeral home.

 

Dolores J. Baldrica
Died February 14, 2013

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Dolores J. Baldrica, 69 of Plains, Twp., passed away Thursday morning, February 14, 2013 at Smith Nursing Care, Mountaintop.

She was born February 18, 1943 in Plains, daughter of the late Joseph & Rena (Grassi) Baldrica.

Dolores enjoyed playing the accordion and the piano.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister Pauline and her brother Frank Baldrica, and her best friend Evelyn MacAfee.

Surviving are her sisters Phyllis Shillabeer, Kingston, and Rena Mong, Blackwood, New Jersey, several nieces and nephews.

Funeral Services for Dolores will be held Monday at 11:00 am at the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street, Plains, with Rev. Marty Garms, Pastor of the East End Primitive Methodist Church, Officiating.  Interment will be held in the Italian Independent Cemetery, West Wyoming.  Friends may call Monday morning from 10:00 am till 11:00 am at the funeral home.

 

 

Florence J. Yencho
Died February 3, 2013

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Florence J. Yencho, 80, formerly of Plains Township, died Sunday, February 3, 2013 at Little Flower Manor, Wilkes-Barre.

She was born in Wilkes-Barre and resided in Plains, Twp., for most of her life.  She was the daughter of the late Charles and Mary (Lewan) Skierski.

Florence attended Plains Township schools and worked at various manufacturing jobs in the Wilkes-Barre area. 

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sisters Anne Kudcey and Stephanie Mikula, and by her brother-in-law Rudolph (Ray) Mikula.

Surviving are her daughters Jill Yencho, Plains, Kandace Evans and her husband William, Mountaintop, and Denise Pipkin and her husband Stephen, San Antonio, Texas, grandchildren Amanda and Billy Evans, brothers Frank Skierski and his wife Helen, Endicott, New York, and Stanley Skierski and his wife Margaret, Plains.  Also surviving are her nieces Deborah Wargo, Shelia Bucci, and Roxanne Barden, nephews Randy Mikula and Frank Skierski, great-nieces Carissa Wargo, Jessica and Sarah Skierski, great-nephews David Skierski and A.J. and Matthew Bucci.

Florence’s family would like to thank the Carmelite Sisters and the staff of Little Flower Manor, especially the nurses and aides of the second floor who cared for out mother.

A  Mass of Christian Burial will be held Friday at 1:00 pm in the Chapel at Little Flower Manor, 200 South Meade Street  Wilkes-Barre, PA  18702.  Those attending are asked to go directly to the chapel Friday morning.  Friends may call from 12:00 pm till the time of mass on Friday morning at the chapel.  Interment will be held in St. Joseph’s Cemetery, Hudson section of Plains, Twp.

In lieu of Flowers, memorial donations may be made to Little Flower Manor.

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

 

 

Myrtle Lee Raggi
Died February 3, 2013

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Myrtle Lee Raggi, 73 of the Parsons section of Wilkes-Barre, passed away peacefully Sunday morning at her home with her family and friends beside her.

Born in Augusta, Georgia, she was the daughter of the late William and Addie Lee (Fletcher) Harpley.

She was a graduate of Richmond Academy, Augusta, GA, and was a homemaker and mother all of her life.

Myrtle Lee was preceded in death by her husband Serafino John Raggi on October 5, 1989, and her brother Verdy Delano Blackwell.

Surviving are her daughters Grace Starrie and her husband Bill, Hunlock Creek, Denise Bernatovich, and her husband Bob, Shickshinny, sons John Raggi and his wife Dawn, Bear Creek, and Serafino Raggi and his wife Virginia, Plymouth Twp., grandchildren Laura Lynn Colleran and her husband Jay, Ian Richard Starrie, Jennifer Lee Lewis and her husband Rich, John Raggi, Jr., Montana Marie Raggi, Serafino Raggi, Jr., and Willow Raggi, great-grandchildren Hailey Marie Colleran, Jay Jay Colleran, and Madison Elizabeth Lewis,  brother William Fredrick Harpley, Jr., Augusta, Georgia, sisters Clara Harpley Hill, and Daisy Jean Abbott, both Berkeley Springs, West Virginia.

In accordance with Myrtle Lee’s wishes, her funeral services will be private and reserved for her family.  Rev. James Quinn, Pastor of the Immanuel Baptist Church, Edwardsville, will officiate.  Her interment will be held in Chapel Lawn Memorial Park, Dallas.  Arrangements by the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street  Plains, PA  18705. 

Memorial donations may be made in Myrtle Lee’s memory to the Association for the Blind  1825 Wyoming Avenue  Exeter, PA  18643, or to Hospice Community Care  601 Wyoming Avenue  Kingston, PA  18704.

 

 

Lottie Silvi
Died January 29, 2013

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Lottie Silvi, 98 of Plains Twp., passed away Tuesday morning at the United Methodist Homes, Wesley Village Campus, Jenkins, Twp., where she had been a resident for the past three months.

Born in the Hudson section of Plains, she was the daughter of the late Stanley & Mary (Novak) Benczkowski. 

Lottie attended Plains Township schools and was employed as a Trimmer in the garment industry.  She was a member of SS. Peter & Paul Church, Plains, and the I.L.G.W.U.

She was preceded in death by her husband Sesto Silvi on September 22, 1985, and her son John “Cy” Silvi on July 17, 2000, her brothers Joseph and Frank Benczkowski.

Surviving are her daughter Cecelia Phillips and her husband Ronald, Plains, 6 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, daughter-in-law Eileen Silvi, West Wyoming, sisters Isabelle Neishell, Hudson, Johanna Kalinosky, Kingston, Helen Rinkevich, Breaslau, Felicia Bellanco, Pittston, and Marie Sperazza, West Pittston,  brother Stanley Benczkowski, Hudson, several nieces and nephews.

The family would like to thank the staff of Wesley Village and especially Heather and Kelly for their wonderful care of Lottie.

As per Lottie’s wishes, her funeral services are to be private and reserved for her family only.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Friday at 10:00 am in SS. Peter & Paul Church, Plains.  Interment will be held in Sacred Heart Cemetery, Plains. 
Private family viewing will be held Friday morning from 8:00 am till 9:30 am at the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street  Plains, PA  18705.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the SS. Peter & Paul Church Food Pantry, 13 Hudson Road  Plains, PA  18705, in Lottie’s memory.

 

 

Joseph Michael Falchek
Died January 20, 2013

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Joseph Michael Falchek, 39 of Plains, Twp., passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, January 20, at Geisinger Wyoming Valley, Plains, PA.

Born in Plains on June 7, 1973, he was the son of Joseph C. and Jacqueline (Stanley) Falchek of Plains.

Joe was a graduate of James M. Coughlin High School, Wilkes-Barre, Class of 1992, and also Misericordia University, Dallas, where he earned an Associate Degree in Applied Science and received the “Rho Tau” Award in the study of radiologic technology.  He was employed by Geisinger South Wilkes-Barre, as a certified radiology technician since 1995.

Joe had a love for automobiles, and was especially proud of his prized Corvette.  He was also an avid NASCAR enthusiast and loved spending time with his niece and nephews.  He was a member of the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents Clement and Lottie Falchek and Michael and Rose Stanley. 

Surviving in addition to his parents are his sisters Jennifer Falchek, Plains, and Janeen McKenna and her husband John, Middletown, DE, brother Jeffrey Falchek and his wife Meredith, Kingston, niece and nephews Jeffrey and Riley Falchek, Jacqueline and Jason McKenna.

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 held in St. Mary’s Byzantine Cemetery, Plains. 

Friends may call Tuesday evening from 5 to 8 pm at the funeral home.

Memorial donations may be made to the Children’s Miracle Network at Geisinger, 100 North Academy Avenue Danville, PA  17822-5020, or to Geisinger Foundation in support of Radiology Tech Education in memory of Joe Falchek C/O GSWB Administration  25 Church Street  Wilkes-Barre, PA  18702.

 

Matthew J. Shimshock, Jr.
Died January 21, 2013

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Matthew (Matt) J Shimshock, Jr, 74 of Plains passed away on Sunday, January 21th surrounded by family.  He was born, raised and attended schools in Plains.  He was the son of the late Matthew J and Cecilia (Walsh) Shimshock.  He graduated from Plains Memorial High School, class of 1956.
Following graduation, he served in the United States Marine Corps for 2 years.  After his military service, he attended King’s College.  He had a distinguished career in the consumer finance industry for over 35 years.  He started his career in 1961 with General Acceptance Corp (GAC) in the Baltimore area.  In 1970, he returned to Plains and became a vice-president, Area Manager for GAC and continued his career with Finance America and NationsCredit.  He was responsible for territories in Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey and New England.  He retired in 1998.

Matt was very active in the local sports scene and in youth sports in Plains Township.  He was a coach and an officer for the Plains Little League for years. He also coached and was an integral part in the early years of the Plains Yankees Youth Football organization.   An avid golfer most of his life, Matt was a long-time member of the Wyoming Valley Country Club.  While he was an active golfer, he looked forward to the annual golf trips to either Myrtle Beach or Florida with his friends.  It was during these trips that he would get enjoyment just being around his buddies to laugh, eat and drink.  In his later years, he would frequent “the club” to play cards and enjoy the company of friends regularly.  He was a member of the Coughlin High School Booster Club as well.  He was a frequent patron at Pattes Sports Bar for years and was a member of the Sportsmen’s Club.  During that time, the club made numerous trips to New York City as well as other venues for sporting events which he truly enjoyed.  He always came back from the trips with at least 1 great story to share with everyone. 

He loved to have conversations about football and sports in the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s.  He could discuss former area sports stars with anyone and loved to talk about the “old days” when his father was a coach at Plains High School.  Matt was a huge Notre Dame fan and he made the trip to South Bend on a number of occasions.  He loved watching old war movies and was a great fan of any John Wayne movie.

After retirement, he also enjoyed attending sporting events, especially those that involved his grandchildren. He loved going to college football games to watch his grandson as well as Soccer games and Track & Field Meets to watch his granddaughters.  He loved to be surrounded by his family and friends.  To him, nothing compared to being with his children and grandchildren during the holidays and other occasions.

His ability to tell stories, make people laugh and make people feel valued were unmatched.  He was the type of person that others were drawn to because of his personality and genuine care that he felt for others. He was a constant presence in Plains Township for many years.  He will be greatly missed by those that knew him and called him a friend. 

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Margaret Mary.  He was a member of SS Peter and Paul Church, Plains.
He is survived by his devoted wife the former Jean Kuzminski.  Matt and Jean recently celebrated 51 years of marriage on December 30th.  In addition to his wife, Matt is survived by son, David Shimshock and his wife Lisa, Plains; Daughter Donna Shimshock, Plains; Daughter Lisa Mimnaugh and husband Daniel, Jenkins Township; Sister Barbara Peck and husband Walter, Moosic.
Matt is also survived by 6 grandchildren: Jade and Matthew Shimshock; Kasey and McKenzie McDonough, Madison and Grace Mimnaugh.  As well as great-grandchild Emily McDonough.  Matt adored his grandchildren and they adored him as well.

Matt’s family would like to thank all of his friends over the years for the enjoyment they brought to his life.  They would also like to recognize and thank the numerous doctors, nurses and medical personnel that extended his time on earth.

Funeral services for Matt 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 9:30am in SS. Peter & Paul Church, Plains.  Interment will be held in the Parish Cemetery, Plains.

Friends may call Wednesday from 5 to 8 pm at the Funeral Home.
Memorial donations may be made to the American Diabetes Association 71 North Franklin Street, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18701.

 

 

Catherine M. Kasaba
Died January 18, 2013

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Catherine M. Kasaba, 94, of Plains Township, died Friday morning at the inpatient unit of Celtic Health Care, Geisinger South, Wilkes-Barre.

Born in Plymouth, she was the daughter of the late Peter and Nellie (Govler)   Markiewicz.

Catherine was educated in the Plains Township schools and was a homemaker all her life.  She was a member of SS. Peter & Paul Church, Plains.

Preceding her in death was her husband Joseph on July 25, 1962 and also her brothers; Edward, Joseph, Leo and William Marko: Sisters Sophie Kunec, Mary Sivahop, Josephine Yastremski and Emma Sabol and Son in law Donald Pachucki Sr.

Surviving are her son Raymond Kasaba and his wife Kitty, Plains; Daughters Joan Chimer and husband Joseph, Wilkes-Barre; Irene Pachucki, Wilkes-Barre;  Bernardine (Debbie) Hughes and husband Robert, Duryea and Jenny Kasaba Plains; Sister, Anna Westawaski, Pittston; 11 grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren and 6 great great grandchildren,  several nephews and nieces.

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 the Parish Cemetery.

Friends may call Sunday 2 to 5 pm at the Funeral Home.

Memorial donations if desired may be made to SS. Peter & Paul Church, 13 Hudson Road, Plains, PA  18705  in Catherine’s memory.

 

 

Robert A. Gregor, Sr.
Died January 8, 2013

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Robert A. Gregor, Sr., 63 of Plains, Twp., passed away Tuesday afternoon at the Wilkes-Barre General Hospital, after suffering a Heart Seizure at home.

Born in the Hudson section of Plains, he was the son of the late Clayton and Elizabeth (Gregor) Neville.

Bob was a graduate of Plains Memorial High School, class of 1967, and was employed for King Fifth Wheel of Mountaintop as a machinist and for the United States Post Office as a Postal Clerk until his retirement.

He was an avid New York Yankees fan and an avid outdoorsman. He was a former Plains Yankee Football coach, and also coached Plains Little League and Plains Teener League Baseball.  Bob has a special place in his heart for his three grandsons.  They were the Light of his Life and he enjoyed spending every moment with them.  Bob also had a special love for his Cocker Spaniel friends.

The family would like to thank Dr. Jeff DeAndrea and Dr. Kevin Carey for their wonderful care of Bob throughout the years.

He was preceded in death by his sister Denise Everett.

Surviving are his wife of 37 years the former Diane Wallace, sons Robert Gregor, Jr. and his wife Melissa, Dallas, and W. Michael Gregor and his wife Mary, Plains, grandsons Maxwell, Declan, and Robert George Gregor, brother Arthur Neville and sister Bernice “Bunny” Neville, both of Ashley.

Funeral Services for Bob will be held Saturday at 9:30 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street, Plains.  Interment will be held in Memorial Shrine Burial Park, Carverton section of Wyoming.  Friends may call Friday from 5 to 8 pm.

Memorial donations may be made in Bob’s Memory to Plains Yankee Football or to Plains Little League Baseball.

 

Thomas L. Snee, Sr.
Died January 7, 2013

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Thomas L. Snee, Sr., 77 of Wilkes-Bare, passed away January 7, 2013, peacefully at home after a courageous battle with cancer.

He was born July 6, 1935 in Wilkes-Barre Township.  He was the son of the late Joseph and Mae (MacAdara) Snee.

He retired in 2009 from construction work, and most recently he was employed by Wyoming Valley HealthCare.

He was a longtime member of St. Therese Church, Wilkes-Barre, and participated in the church choir and coached for many years for the St. Therese Little League.  His greatest joy was spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren.

Tom is survived by his wife of 55 years, the former Beatrice “Dolly” Morgans, sons Thomas L. Snee, Jr. and his wife Ann, Northumberland, PA, and Brian Snee and his wife Diane, Luzerne, daughters Mary d. “Dotty” Reid and her husband Francis, Baldwinsville, NY, and Michelle Ostrander, Manlius, NY, grandchildren Meghan, Michael, and Shawn Reid, Abbi, Becca, and Anna Snee, Catherine, Morgan, and Jillian Ostrander, Katie and Riely Snee, brothers Joseph and Donald Snee, Bel Air, MD, William and James Snee, Wilkes-Barre Township, sisters Mary Pat Sherman, Cranberry Township, PA, and Nancy Snee, Wilkes-Barre Township, several nieces and nephews. 

The family would like to thank Celtic Hospice Care for their loving kindness and compassion.

Funeral will be held Friday at 9:15 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street Plains, PA  18705, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 am in St. Robert Bellarmine Parish, St. Aloysius Church, Wilkes-Barre.  Interment will be held in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Hanover Twp.

Friends may call Thursday from 5 to 8 pm at the funeral home.

 

Mary R. Buckman
Died January 4, 2013

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Mary “Jean” “Nana” Buckman, 81 of Dallas and formerly of Wilkes-Barre, died Friday morning at the meadows Nursing Center, Dallas.

Born in Tresckow, she was the daughter of the late Frederick and Mary Mooney Banks.

Jean was a graduate of James M. Coughlin High School, Wilkes-Barre and was employed as a Nurse’s Aide and last was associated with the former Charles Spellman Funeral Home, Wilkes-Barre.

Jean loved being with her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren and spending time at Harvey’s Lake and was very devoted to St. Jude.

Preceding her in death was her son Tommy Buckman on September 7, 2004 and brother Bernard Banks and Brother-in Law John Mendusky.

Surviving are her sons; Michael and his wife Kathy, Wilkes-Barre, Frederick and his wife Dana, Dallas and  William and his wife Susan, Shavertown; Grandchildren; Michael, Melissa, Kerri, Andrea, Kevin, Rachel, Laura, Maya and Olivia; great-grandchildren; McKayla, Kamryn, Liam, Emma and Gavin;  Sisters, Pat Mendusky, Wilkes-Barre; Marilyn Suhanich and husband Bob, Wilkes-Barre and Judy Noll and husband Gilbert, Shavertown; sister in law Nancy Banks, Wilkes-Barre; several nephews and nieces.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Tuesday at 10 am in St. Therese’s Church, Shavertown.  Interment will held in St. Mary’s Cemetery Hanover Township. There will be no calling hours.

Arrangements are entrusted to the Corcoran Funeral Home Inc. 20 South Main Street, Plains.

Memorial donations in desired may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital  332 North Lauderdale  Memphis, Tennessee  38105

 

Levio J. Grilli
Died January 4, 2013

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Levio “Butzie” Grilli, 93 of the Hilldale section of Plains, passed into heaven on Friday morning at River Street Manor, Wilkes-Barre.

Born in Hilldale, he was the son of the late John B. and Josephine (Berrettini) Grilli.

Levio was a graduate of Plains Memorial High School, Class of 1938, where he excelled in baseball, football, and wrestling.  He was a  Pennsylvania All State Wrestler in 1938.  He attended a baseball training camp for the New York Giants in 1939.  Levio also coached baseball and football for many years.

Prior to retirement, he was employed as a machinist at Yates Electric, West Wyoming, and last for the Wilkes-Bare Area School District.

He was a member of the Christian Apostolic Church, Plains, and a member of the Plains Sports Hall of Fame, inducted in 1991.

Preceding him in death are his brothers Domero and Angelo; sisters Lena Palmaioli, Violet Surma, Arnesta Grilli, and Marie Moskal, and infant brother Angelo.

Surviving are Levio’s wife of 63 years Baldina (Nati) Grilli, Hilldale, son Dr. Joseph J. Grilli and his wife Lisa, Jenkins Twp., daughter Lynn Grilli Gilroy and her husband Leo, Kingston, grandchildren Dr. Christopher J. Grilli and his wife Dr. Jennifer, Kaitlyn Grilli, Liam Gilroy, great grandson Maxwell Levio Grilli, sister Emma Esopi, Hilldale, many beloved nephews and nieces.

The family would like to thank the staff of Celtic Hospice (Hospice Community Care) and River Street Manor for their excellent and compassionate care.

Funeral will be held Monday at 9:30 am from the Corcoran Funeral Home, Inc., 20 South Main Street, Plains with Services to be held at 10:00 am in the Christian Apostolic Church, Plains, with Reverend David Fischi, Officiating.  Interment will be held in the Italian Independent Cemetery, West Wyoming.    Friends may call at the Funeral Home Sunday from 2:00 to 5:00 pm.

Memorial donations can be made if desired to The Christian Apostolic Church  757 North Main Street  Plains, PA  18705.