GEORGE R. HINELINE
George R. Hineline, 61, Hamlin, died October 16 at Mercy Hospice after an illness. His wife is the former Joan Marie Wenkosky. They would have
celebrated their 37th wedding anniversary Dec. 21.
Born July 6, 1939 in Hamlin, son of the late Willard and Emma Ketchledge Hineline, he attended Lake Consolidated High School. He served in the Strategic
Air Command Division of the United States Air Force during the Korean War.
He had been employed by Tobyhanna Army Depot, and then was self-employed
as a truck driver. He later worked for Consolidated Freightways for 20
years, retiring in 1999. He also belonged to the Teamsters Local 429. He
raced stock cars at local tracks with his brothers, and later his sons.
Also surviving are four sons, Kenneth, Elmhurst; Daniel, David and
Michael, all of Lake Ariel; a brother, Julian, Hamlin; two sisters, Shirley
Barringer, New York; and Elaine Goreham, Missouri; three grandchildren;
nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by four brothers, Harold, Kenneth and Philip
Hineline, and Sam Margellina; and a sister, Helen Bennett.
The funeral was from the Centenary United Methodist Church, Route 590,
Hamlin, with services by the Revs. Ron Onder, William Locker and Nelson
Waters. Interment, Hamlin Cemetery.
JEAN MARIE WINN
Jean Marie Winn, 62, Portsmouth, R.I., died October 14 at Newport Hospital.
She was the widow of Master Chief Lawrence J. Winn, USN,Ret.
Born in Scranton on April 9, 1938, daughter of the late George E. and Anna Hagen Sink, she was valedictorian of the class of 1955 at St. Mary s
High School, Scranton. From 1955 to 1962 she worked as an administrative
assistant for Shelborne Electronics in Wilkes-Barre. After a long career
as a homemaker, she returned to the University of Rhode Island to receive
her bachelor's degree in business, graduating magna com laude in 1987.
She then worked at the Navy Exchange in Newport for several years.
Surviving are two daughters, Denise Winn Larsen, Portsmouth; and Michelle
Winn Elliott, Shrewsbury, Mass.; a brother, George Sink, Lake Ariel; a
sister, MaryAnn Kalinich, Scranton; two grandchildren; a niece and two
nephews.
The funeral was from the Connors Funeral Home. Interment was private.
Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society,
400 Main St. Pawtucket, RI 02860; or the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation N.Y.
10010.
BLANCHE E. STEFANCO
Blanche E. Stefanco, 87, of Moscow, died October 17 at the Moses Taylor Skilled Nursing Center. She was the widow of Michael Stefanco, who died
March 6, 1993.
Born in Taylor, daughter of the late John and Anna Rachael Kandefer,
she attended Taylor schools. She was a member of St. Michael Byzantine
Catholic Church, Pittston. She had resided in Moscow for the past 50 years.
She was a loving mother, grandmother and great-grandmother who could
never do enough for her family. All who knew this strong, kind and gracious
woman will miss her deeply.
Surviving are two sons, Michael Stefanco Jr., Syracuse, N.Y.; and John
Stefanco, Gouldsboro; a daughter, Madelyn Rinaldi, Moscow; five grandchildren;
a sister, Mary Wombacker, Moscow; nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by two brothers, Edward and Joseph Kandefer,
and three sisters, Stella Morris, Ethel Keslosky and Sophie Brezinski.
The funeral was from the Bernard J. Piontek Funeral Home Inc., 204
Main St., Duryea, with Divine Liturgy in St. Michael Byzantine Catholic
Church, Pittston. Interment, parish cemetery, Pittston.
MILDRED R. SCIOSCIA
Mildred R. Scioscia, 87, Moscow, died October 18 at home. She was the
widow of Gabriel Scioscia, who died Oct. 25, 1972.
Born Oct. 12, 1913, in Old Forge, daughter of the late Teofial and
Dorothea Affalt Gromelsky, she settled in Moscow 31 years ago. Educated
in Old Forge schools, she was a member of St. Mary of the Assumption Church,
Old Forge.
She was a loving mother.
Surviving are three sons, Paul, at home; Stanley, Danville, Calif.;
and Frank, Old Forge; a sister, Frances Peperno, Old Forge; six grandchildren;
a great-grandchild; nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by a son, Karl, in 1996; three brothers,
John, Charles and Joseph; and three sisters, Theresa and Helen Gromelsky,
and Martha Dopko.
The funeral was from the Thomas P. Kearney Funeral Home, 517 N. Main
St., Old Forge, with Mass in St. Mary of the Assumption Church, Grace Street,
Old Forge. Interment, Cathedral Cemetery.
ALEXANDER J. FINELLA
Alexander J. Raber Finella, of Dunmore, died October 17 at Mercy
Hospital after an illness. He and his wife, the former Catherine Gonkavich,
celebrated their 54th wedding anniversary on July 13.
Born in Scranton, son of the late Alexander and Nicolina Patamino Finella, he was educated in Dunmore public schools. He was an Army veteran of World
War II, having served in the D-Day invasion of Normandy, where he was wounded
and received the Purple Heart.
Prior to retirement in 1988, he was employed for more than 40 years
by the H.B. Sproul Construction Co., Scranton, and was a member of the
International Brotherhood of Teamsters Local 229.
He was a loving and caring husband, father, grandfather and brother
who enjoyed spending time with his children and grandchildren. He will
be sadly missed by his loving family.
Also surviving are a daughter, Maryann Cimino, Dunmore; a son, Alexander
J., Moscow; two sisters, Mary Tunis, Scranton, and Celia Malia, Dunmore;
five grandchildren; nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by four brothers, Frank, Joseph, Edward and
Nicholas.
The funeral was from the Thomas J. Golden Funeral Home, 2004 Delaware
St., Dunmore, with Mass in St. Mary of Mount Carmel Church, Chestnut St.,
Dunmore. Interment, Dunmore Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society,
1101 Hill St., Jessup 18434.
ROBERT D. ELIAS
Robert D. Elias, 86, a resident of Spring Brook Township for the past
45 years, died October 17 at Mercy Hospital. His wife, the former Margaret Welsh Elias, died Sept. 13.
Born in Spring Brook Township, son of the late David and Salome Davis Elias, he attended Moscow schools, and was a member of Spring Brook United
Church of Christ. He worked for the family farm for many years. He also
worked for the state Department of Transportation for 10 years prior to
retirement.
He was a joy to all who knew him, and he will be deeply missed. He
always had a smile and kind word.
Surviving are two daughters, Roberta Elias, Spring Brook, and Kathleen
Wilbur, Factoryville; a sister, La Vern Malone, Orange City, Fla.; nieces
and nephews.
He was preceded in death by a sister, Marion Carey Scharf, in 1994.
The funeral was from the Brian Arthur Strauch Funeral Home, Rt. 690
Spring Brook Township. Interment, private at the convenience of the family.
Memorial contributions may be made to Spring Brook United Church of
Christ.
ARTHUR H. FRABLE
Arthur H. Frable, 80, a lifelong resident of Moscow, died October 18
in Mercy Hospital. He and his wife, the former Margaret Davis, were married
March 25, 1943.
Born in Scranton, son of the late Louis and Elizabeth Sachse Frable,
he was a graduate of Scranton Technical High School, and a member of the
First Baptist Church, Hollisterville. An Army veteran of World War II,
he was employed by the Tobyhanna Army Depot until retirement.
He was a loving and giving husband and father who loved the great outdoors,
and was an avid sportsman and hunter.
Also surviving are two daughters. Linda L. Loch, Covington Township,
and Robin Leschinsky, Moscow; four sons, Arthur H. Jr., Cambridge, Neb.;
Kenneth A., Fort Myers, Fla.; David L., Moosic; and Rodalyn, Hollisterville;
two sisters, Mildred Simonson, Scranton, and Elizabeth Fritz, Allentown;
a brother, Walford, Elmhurst; 20 grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren;
nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by two sisters, Shirley McLain and Eleanor
Kellerman; three brothers, Bobby, Ralph and Louis; and two grandchildren.
MARTHA M. KEATING
Martha M. Keating, Dunmore, died October 18 in the VNA Hospice Unit
of Community Medical Center after an illness. She was the widow of John
Keating, who died July 18, 1978.
Born in Dunmore, daughter of the late James and Mary Carona Cortese,
she was a member of St. Mary of Mount Carmel Church, Dunmore, and its women s
guild. She attended Dunmore public schools and prior to retirement in 1980,
was employed by Topps Chewing Gum, Duryea. She had previously been employed
by Lackawanna Pants Co., Scranton.
She was a loving mother, grandmother and sister, who was always there
to lend a helping hand, give a friendly smile and assuring words to everyone
with whom she came into contact. She had a great spirit, boundless energy
and a giving heart. She will be sadly missed by her loving family.
Surviving are a son, John L., Dunmore; three brothers, Salvatore Cortese,
Southfield, N.Y.; John Cortese, Scranton; and Peter Cortese, Lake Spangenberg;
two sisters, Kathryn Lannak, Scranton; and Mary Budzak, Throop; two grandchildren;
nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by a son, Donald; three brothers, Lawrence,
Michael and Anthony Cortese; and three sisters, Frances Talerico, Josephine
Nemeth and Carmela Nole.
The funeral was from St. Mary of Mount Carmel Church, Chestnut St,
Dunmore. Interment, St. Catherine's Cemetery, Moscow.
Arrangements by Carlucci-Golden-DeSantis Funeral Home, 318 E. Drinker
St., Dunmore.
QUENTIN A. SWARTZ
Quentin A. Swartz, North Royalton, Ohio, died October 13. His wife
is the former Jean Sayre. They had been married for 55 years.
Born in Spring Brook Township, son of the late George and Frances Wilson Swartz, he served in the United States Air Force, and was a veteran of
World War II. He was a retired real estate agent and a plumber.
As an avid gardener, he enjoyed growing roses.
Also surviving are three daughters, Janet Marietta, Donna Thompson
and Sharon Meyer; a sister, Winola Maroon, Spring Brook; seven grandchildren;
and a great-grandchild.
He was preceded in death by two sisters.
Interment in Brecksville Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Bethel Lutheran Church, 3852
Everett Road, Bath, OH 44313. Local arrangements by the Brian Arthur Strauch
Funeral Home, Route 690, Spring Brook Township.
THEODORE FRANC
Theodore Franc, Lake Ariel, died October 9 in Wayne Memorial Hospital, Honesdale. His wife is the former Helen Frisbie. They celebrated their
73rd wedding anniversary Sept. 27.
Born in Lake Ariel, son of the late George and Bertha Polley Franc,
he was a graduate of Lake Ariel High School and a member of Lake Ariel
United Methodist Church. He was a member of the Northeast Pennsylvania
Maple Syrup Association. Before retirement, he was self-employed in the
sawmill industry.
He will be greatly missed by his wife, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren
and great-great-grandchild.
Surviving are a daughter, Elaine Cook, Lake Ariel; a son, Bennie, Lake
Ariel; a sister, Kathryn Enslin, Lake Ariel; nine grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren;
a great-great-grandchild; nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by a son, James; a daughter, Ann Louise Curtis;
six brothers, Harry, Sherwood, Charles, Stanley, Earl and Chester; two
sisters, Mildred Patterson and Ruth Reed; and a great-grandson.
The funeral was from the James Wilson Funeral Home Inc., Route 296,
Lake Ariel, with services by the Rev. Ron Onder of the Lake Ariel United
Methodist Church. Interment, Fairview Memorial Park, Elmhurst.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Lake Ariel United Methodist
Church, 110 Maple Ave., Lake Ariel, 18436, or the the Lake Ariel Fire Company,
P.O. Box 31, Lake Ariel.
MARY L. PALMIERE
Mary L. Palmiere, Old Forge, died October 7 in the Mercy Hospice Unit after a lengthy battle with a brain tumor. She was the widow of Joseph
Palmiere, who died June 24, 1987.
Born in Old Forge, daughter of the late Salvatore and Frances Scavo
LeRose, she was educated in Old Forge schools. Prior to retirement, she
was employed by the Taylor Dress Co. She was a member of St. Mary's of
the Assumption Church, Old Forge, and its altar and rosary society. She
was a member of the Old Forge Retired Citizens.
She was a loving and devoted wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother.
Her strong faith and belief in God gave her the courage to battle her illness.
Surviving are two daughters, Pat Taylor, her caregiver, of Old Forge,
with whom she resided, and Cynthia Kosher, Weatogue, Conn; three brothers,
Joseph, Bridgewater, N.J.; Samuel, Daleville; and James, Old Forge; two
sisters, Phyllis Alfis and Anita Emilianovitz, both of New Milford, N.J.;
four grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by three sisters, Carol Sosslau, Jenny Jones
and Helen Pehanich; and a granddaughter.
The funeral was from the Thomas P. Kearney Funeral Home, 517 N. Main
St., Old Forge, with Mass in St. John the Baptist Church, Main Street,
Taylor, by the Rev. Philip A. Altavilla, pastor of St. John the Baptist
Church and Immaculate Conception churches, Taylor. Interment, Old Forge
Cemetery.
JOSEPH A. BARILLO
Joseph A. Barillo, 87, of Lake Ariel, died October 10 at home. His
widow is the former Helen Malecki. They celebrated their 66th wedding anniversary
in March.
Born in Italy, son of the late Joseph and Louisa Barillo, he was a
member of St. Thomas More Church, Lake Ariel, where he was a minister of
hospitality, and the Knights of Columbus, Lake Ariel. Before retirement,
he had been employed as a tractor trailer driver for Arrow Transportation.
He was a devoted dad and loving grandfather. His grandchildren were his
world.
Also surviving are two daughters, Lorna Gilpin, with whom he resided;
and Sondra Varoli, Ridgewood, N.J.; three sons, Ronald, Milford; Dennis,
Lancaster; and Gary, Daytona, Fla.; a brother, Rocco, Daytona, Fla.; 13
grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by a son, Bruce; and a daughter, Carol.
The funeral was from James Wilson Funeral Home Inc., Lake Ariel, with
Mass in St. Thomas More Church, Lake Ariel, celebrated by the Rev. Edward
R. Scott, pastor. Interment, East Canaan Cemetery.
HELEN L. SLUKO
Helen L. Sluko, Dunmore, died October 8 in St. Mary's Villa Elmhurst, following an illness. She was the widow of Charles Sluko, who died Feb. 2, 1975.
Born in Dunmore, daughter of the late John and Mary Grega Kontura,
she was a member of All Saints Church, Dunmore, and its altar and rosary
society. She was a graduate of Dunmore High School, East Stroudsburg Teaching
College and Marywood College, and prior to her retirement in 1995, she
was a teacher for over 50 years in the Dunmore School District. She was
a member of the American Federation of Teachers, the Dunmore Teachers Association
and the Greek Catholic Union.
She was a loving and caring mother, grandmother and sister, who took
great pride in her family and the accomplishments of her former students.
As a teacher, she had a positive effect on the lives of children entrusted
to her care, and she loved her profession. She will be sadly missed by
her loving family and all who knew her.
Surviving are a son, Richard C., Dunmore; two sisters, Mary Kontura,
Elmhurst, and Ludmilla Randelunas, Throop; three granddaughters; nieces
and nephews.
She was preceded in death by five brothers, John, Joseph, Albert, Andrew
and Steven Kontura; and a sister, Ann Kontura.
The funeral was from the Thomas J. Golden Funeral Home, 2004 Delaware
St., Dunmore, with Mass in All Saints Church, Ward Street, Dunmore. Interment, St. Michael's Cemetery, Dunmore.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association of
Northeastern Pennsylvania, Kirby Health Center, Wilkes-Barre, or to St.
Mary's Villa, Elmhurst.
MARGARET MARY McCARTHY AYRES
Margaret Mary McCarthy Ayres, 55, Tafton, died October 11 at the hospice unit of Mercy Hospital after an illness. She was the wife of William Gregory
Ayres.
Born in Philadelphia, daughter of the late William J. and Mary Ruth
Thompson McCarthy, she was a housewife and a member of Queen of Peace Church,
Hawley. She had formerly resided in Philadelphia before moving to Tafton
11 years ago.
Also surviving are three sons, the Rev. William G. Ayres Jr., Philadelphia;
Michael A., Scranton; and Joseph C., Tafton; a daughter, Margaret Ayres,
Tafton; a sister, Ruthanne Ayres, Stratford, N.J.; six brothers, William
J., Moscow; Robert A., Drums; J. Michael, Philadelphia; Thomas, Ladson,
S.C.; Philip, Upper Darby; and James, Bala Cynwyd; a grandson; nieces and
nephews.
The funeral was from Teeters East Chapel, 505 Church St., Hawley,
with Mass in Queen of Peace Church, Hawley, celebrated by Mrs. Ayres s
son. the Rev. William Ayres Jr. Concelebrant was the Rev. William B. Healey,
pastor. Interment, parish cemetery, Hawley.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. Francis DeSales School, 917
S. 47th St., Philadelphia 19143.
NANCY A. EDWARDS
Nancy A. Edwards, 62, Morristown, N.J., died October 11 at home. Her
husband is James Edwards.
Born in Moscow, she was employed as a teacher of special education
in the Morris School District, N.J. Prior to that, she taught in the Plainfield
School District. She attended Marywood University. She was a member of
the Morristown United Methodist Church, where she was a Sunday school teacher
for many years. She was also a member of the New Jersey Education Association
and the Morris County Retired Teachers Association.
Surviving are two daughters, Kathryn Sens, Denville, N.J., and Annette
Dobleske, Kinnelon, N.J.; a brother, Paul Johnson, Moscow; and two grandchildren.
The funeral was in the Morristown United Methodist Church. Interment
was private.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Carol G. Simon Cancer Center,
c/o Morristown Memorial Hospital, 100 Madison Ave., Morristown, N.J. 07960,
or to the Morristown United Methodist Church, 50 Park Place, Morristown,
07960.
RALPH J. GRUDZINSKI
Ralph J. Grudzinski, a South Scranon resident, died October 11 at Community
Medical Center. His wife of 48 years is the former Marie J. Haynos.
Born in Scranton, son of the late Stanley and Josephine Reybitz Grudzinski, he was educated in Scranton schools, and prior to retirement, was employed
by the Gibbons Brewery for over 42 years. He was an Army Air Force veteran
of World War II. As a corporal, he was a navigator serving in many missions
throughout Europe. He was a member of Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary Church.
He was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. Through the years,
he enjoyed watching his children and grandchildren play sports, and participate
in cheerleading. He also greatly enjoyed attending many of his grandchildren s
violin and dance recitals. He was an avid gardener, bird lover and lifeguard
at the family pool. He was also a dedicated member of the church. He is
deeply loved and missed by all.
Also surviving are four sons, Ralph K., Scranton, Robert, Gouldsboro,
David, Scranton, and Gary, Scranton; a daughter, Jean Marie Zagorsky, Stroudsburg;
a brother, John, Scranton; nine grandchildren; nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by a sister, Jean Grudzinski.
The funeral was from the Nicholas Chomko Funeral Home, 1132 Prospect
Ave., with Mass in Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary Church celebrated by
Monsignor Leonard Novak, pastor. Interment, parish cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to Sacred Hearts Church Fund, 1217
Prospect Ave., 18505.
ANDREW GEORGE WITKO SR.
Andrew George Witko Sr., Gouldsboro, died October 12 at Community Medical Center after an illness. His widow is the former Edie Anagnostou of Piraeus,
Greece. The couple married in March of 1962.
Born in Wilkes-Barre, son of the late Andrew George and Anna Biekish
Witko, he was a member of the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church. He was
a graduate of Breidlin Coughlin High School, Wilkes-Barre. At the onset
of World War II, he joined the Army, and achieved the rank of sergeant.
He was a member of the 309th Squadron, 31st Fighter Group, and flew missions
over Rome(Arno), northern and southern France (Northern Apennines), the
Po Valley, the Balkans and Germany. He was also part of the O.S.S. (Office
of Strategic Services). He earned seven bronze stars, the Good Conduct
Medal, the Distinguished Unit Badge with one Oak Leaf Cluster and The American
Defense Service Medal for European/African/Middle Eastern service. After
the war, he entered the State Police Academy, Hershey. He served as a state
trooper from 1945 to 1969, when he retired. Mr. Witko was employed for
several years in the security department of the Lackawanna County Courthouse,
and as a corrections officer for the Lackawanna County Correctional Facility.
He was an avid golfer, loved baseball and football, and spent many
an hour in front of the television rooting for his Yankees and Steelers.
He loved crossword puzzles, playing the harmonica and the piano. He especially
loved to make people smile and constantly reminded friends and family over
the years that he "flew over General Rommel." He will always be remembered
as a wonderful father and grandfather, as well as a husband who was extremely
devoted to his adored wife. He will also be remembered as a man of integrity
who believed in righteousness, and who held a great compassion for his
fellow man.
Also surviving are two daughters, Amy Froese, Tobyhanna Road, Gouldsboro;
and Andrea Anna Witko, Gouldsboro; a son, Andrew George Jr., Gouldsboro;
five sisters, Josephine and Dorothy, both of Wilkes-Barre; Alice, Conyngham;
Margaret, New York City, N.Y., and Rose, California; two grandchildren;
nieces, a nephew and family members in Greece. He was preceded in death
by two sisters, Helen and Elizabeth; and two brothers, Alex and John.
The funeral was from the Brian Arthur Strauch Funeral Home, Route 690,
Spring Brook Township, with services in the Annunciation Greek Orthodox
Church, North Washington Avenue.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Annunciation Greek Orthodox
Church, 505 N. Washington Ave., 18509.
ROBERT F. OSBORNE
Robert F. "Oz" Osborne, 46, a resident of Spring Brook Township since
1963, died October 13 in the Mercy Hospital Hospice.
Born in Scranton, son of Shirley York Mroz, Moosic, and the late Harold Osborne, who died in March of 1989, he was a 1971 graduate of North Pocono High School, and a member of the Spring Brook United Methodist Church of
Christ. He was an over-the-road truck driver for over 25 years and was
employed by C and M Distributors, Falls. Previously, he worked for the
Apple House, Moosic, and was also employed by his father.
He was a kind-hearted and loving person, and to know his was to love
him. He was a great son, father, brother, uncle and friend who had a great
sense of humor. He loved the great outdoors, and enjoyed hunting, fishing
and concerts.
Surviving are a daughter, Natalie Chapman, Moscow; two sons, Frank
Haddix and Robert Osborne, both of Scranton; a sister, Sheryl Popeck, Dunmore;
two brothers, William, Scranton, and Jeffrey, Spring Brook; aunts, uncles
and cousins.
The funeral was from the Spring Brook United Methodist Church of Christ,
with services by the Rev. Grace Dearin and the Rev. Stephen Westfall. Interment, Spring Brook Cemetery.
Arrangements by the Brian Arthur Strauch Funeral Home, Route 690, Spring
Brook Township.
WILLIAM P. SICA
William P. Sica Sr., 74, of Dunmore, died September 28 at home of an
apparent heart attack. His wife, the former Elizabeth Ziden, died June
24, 1986.
Born in Dunmore, son of the late Sabato and Carmella Nardozzi Sica,
he was a member of St. Mary of Mount Carmel Church, Dunmore. He attended
Dunmore public schools and was an Army veteran of World War II. Before
retirement, in 1988, he was employed at Super Market Service Corp., Dunmore.
He was a loving and caring father and grandfather who enjoyed spending
time with his sons and daughters and their families. He was an avid fisherman
and enjoyed shopping with his grandchildren and cooking for everyone. He
will be sadly missed by his family and friends.
Surviving are three daughters, Joann Spalnick, Jermyn; Mary Fischer,
Mount Cobb; and Shirley Chuta, Olyphant; two sons, William P. Jr., Endicott,
N.Y.; and Michael E., Tafton; a brother, Samuel, Dunmore; a sister, Florence
Gyomory, Schenectedy, N.Y.; eight grandchildren; nieces and nephews.
He was also preceded in death by four brothers, John, Joseph, Mario
and Angelo, and four sisters, Jennie Montana, Mary Susnosky, Helen Lamani
and Anna Yazinskas.
The funeral was from the Carlucci-Golden-DeSantis Funeral Home, 318
E. Drinker St., Dunmore, with Mass in St. Mary of Mount Carmel Church,
Chestnut Street, Dunmore. Interment, Cathedral Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association,
730 Pittston Ave., Scranton.
PATRICIA R. PARISETTE
Patricia R. Parisette, 66, Lake Ariel, formerly of Merrick, Long Island,
died October 2 at the VNA Hospice at Community Medical Center after an
illness. Her husband is Richard R. Parisette. The couple would have celebrated
their 47th wedding anniversary Oct. 24.
Born in Queens, N.Y., daughter of the late William C. and Julia Torma
McKeogh, she was a graduate of Franklin K. Lane High School in New York.
Prior to retirement in 1988, she was employed as a clerical worker for
Smith Barney.
The funeral was from the Brian Arthur Strauch Funeral Home, Route 690
and First Street, Spring Brook Township, with services by Deacon John Franceschelli.
Interment, Fairview Memorial Park, Elmhurst.
RITA M. VAIL
Rita M. Vail, McDade Apartments, died September 30 at Mercy Hospice.
Her husband is William L. Vail. They were married 52 years on Nov. 29, 1999.
Born in Dunmore, daughter of the late Thomas A. and Margaret Racht
Ruane, she was a graduate of Dunmore High School and prior to retirement
was a nurse's aide at Adams Manor.
She was a wonderful loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother,
sister and aunt.
Surviving are two daughters, Lee Ann Duddek, Clarks Summit; and Linda
Fuller, Mount Cobb; a son, William L. Jr., Tunkhannock; a brother, Thomas
Ruane, Roaring Brook Township; a sister, Joan Durdach, Dunmore; 10 grandchildren,
six great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by two sisters, Marjorie Decker and Madlyn
Shields.
The funeral was from the Edward Knight-O Donnell Funeral Home, 323
Williams St., with Mass in Our Lady of the Snows Church, Clarks Summit.
Entombment, Cathedral Cemetery Mausoleum.
Memorial contributions may be made to Mercy Hospice, 746 Jefferson
Ave., 18510
VIOLET RUTKAUSKAS
Violet Rutkauskas, Scranton, died October 1 in Abington Manor Nursing Home, Clarks Summit, where she was a guest. She was the widow of Anthony
Rutkauskas, who died in 1982.
Born in Scranton, daughter of the late Michael and Barbara Yukas Gedman, she was a member of Holy Family Church, Scranton.
She was a good mother and a loving grandmother.
Surviving are two daughters, Annette Gabriel, Factoryville, Roberta
Decker, Ellenville, N.Y.; two sons, Anthony Jr., Scranton, and John, Lake
Ariel; a sister, Marion Biagoli, Scranton; two brothers, Charles and Don
Gedman, both of Scranton; five grandchildren; nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by a grandson.
The funeral was in the Cathedral Cemetery Chapel with services by Monsignor
Constantine Siconolfi, pastor of Holy Family Church. Interment, Cathedral
Cemetery.
Arrangements by Howard J. Snowdon Funeral Home, 1810 Sanderson Ave.
JOAN A. O BRIEN
Joan A. O Brien, The Hideout, Lake Ariel, died October 1 in the VNA
Hospice Unit of the Community Medical Center. Her husband is Robert G.
O Brien.
Born in Brooklyn, N.Y., daughter of the late Joseph and Catherine Toner Colwell, she was employed as a bookkeeper for the First City National Bank
of Brooklyn.
Also surviving are five sons, and 13 grandchildren.
The funeral was from St. Joseph's Church, Lake Ronkonkoma, N.Y. Interment, Calverton National Cemetery, Calverton, N.Y.
Local arrangements by James Wilson Funeral Home, Route 296, Lake Ariel.
MARY L. ( MAE) LOFTUS
Mary L. (Mae) Loftus, North Scranton, died October 3 at St. Mary s
Villa Nursing Home, Elmhurst. She was the widow of William J. Loftus, who
died October 26, 1977.
Born in Scranton, daughter of the late James A. and Florence M. Gerrity Cullington, she was a graduate of Scranton Technical High School, and prior
to her marriage, she worked for American Airlines in New York City. She
was a member of Holy Rosary Church, and a former member of the Catholic
Women's Club.
She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend.
Surviving are three sons, William P., North Wales; James M., Turnersville,
N.J., and Thomas R., Alexandria, Va.; a daughter, Karen Gabello, Moscow;
a sister, Virginia Cullington, Brooklyn, N.Y.; two brothers, Robert F.
Cullington, Spring Hills, Fla., and John R. Cullington, Augusta, Ga.; 10
grandchildren; nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by four brothers,
Joseph P., Thomas F., William P. and James F.
The funeral was from the Edward Knight O Donnell Funeral Home, 323
William St., with Mass in Holy Rosary Church, Interment, Cathedral Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. Mary's Villa Nursing Home,
St. Mary's Villa Road, Elmhurst, 18416.
LEONARD J. MALINOSKI
Leonard J. Malinoski, 71, Lakeville, died October 3 after suffering
a heart attack while bowling and was pronounced dead at Wayne Memorial
Hospital, Honesdale. His widow is the former Leona Pappas. They would have
celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary Nov. 23.
Born March 27, 1929 in Dickson City, son of the late Joseph and Lillian Plauskus Malinoski, he was a graduae of Dickson City High School. He later
attended the University of Scranton for two years. He was a U.S. Air Force
veteran of World War II, serving at the Kessler Air Force Base in Mississippi.
He was self-employed in the refrigeration business and was the owner of
Reliable Service until retirement. He was a member of St. Thomas More Parish,
Lake Ariel, attended St. Mary's Church, Ledgedale, and was a Eucharistic
minister and lector for the parish. Last Sunday, he was elected to the
pastoral council of St. Thomas More Church. He was a 4th degree member
of the Knights of Columbus, Bishop Hoban Assembly, and was a member and
former grand knight of the Lake Ariel council of the Knights of Columbus.
He was a charter member of the Ledgedale Fire Company.
Also surviving are a son, Gary, Hawaii; a brother, Richard, State College;
two grandchildren; nieces and nephews.
The funeral with Mass was in St. Mary's Church. Interment was private.
ALFRED SLIMAK
Alfred Slimak, Blakely, died October 5 at home.
Born in Olyphant, son of Amelia Malski Slimak, Blakely, and the late
John Slimak, he was employed as a lineman for Bell Telephone Co. He attended
elementary school at St. Michael's School, Olyphant, and graduated from
Blakely High School. He served with the Navy for four years and was a member
of Veterans of Foreign Wars Shopa-Davey Post 6082, Peckville.
Also surviving are a daughter, Lynn Ann, Lake Ariel; and two sons,
Brian, Florida; and Stephen, Lake Ariel.
He was preceded in death by a son, Scott.
Private funeral services were held from John J. Turko and Sons Funeral
Home, 404 Susquehanna Ave., Olyphant, with Mass in St. Michael the Archangel
Church, Olyphant, celebrated by the Rev. Martin J. Gaiardo. Interment,
parish cemetery.
BEATRICE KIZER MARSICO
Beatrice "Bea" Kizer Marsico, Scranton, died October 5 at Community
Medical Center after an illness. She was the widow of Joseph F. Marsico
Sr., who died July 24, 1992.
Born and educated at Lake Ariel, daughter of the late George and Temperence
Hoover Kizer, she was formerly employed as a waitress by the Erie Hotel,
Elmhurst. She later made her residence in Scranton, where she and her husband
were very active in the West Side Miss-E League and West Side Little League.
She was a member of St. Maria Goretti Church, Laflin.
She was a loving mother, grandmother and great-grandmother and touched
many lives with her tenderness and kindness. She loved to play bingo and
do arts and crafts. She will be sadly missed by her family and friends.
Surviving are four daughters, Angie Haffner, with whom she resided;
Mary Petroziello, Theresa Mullen and Robin Morales, all of Scranton; five
sons, Angelo, Joseph, Jeffrey, Lawrence and James, all of Scranton; a brother,
Bill Kizer, Taylor; two sisters, Joan Shea, Scranton, and Genevieve Hauman,
Carbondale; 24 grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by a daughter, Debra; a son, Robert; four
brothers, Harry, Edward, George and Kenneth; two sisters, Florence Kizer
and Betty Morgan; and a granddaughter.
The funeral was from Carl J. Savino Funeral Home with Mass in St. Maria
Goretti Church. Interment, Marcy Cemetery, Duryea.
EDWARD WANALISTA
Edward (Grit) Wanalista, 88, died October 7 at home after an illness.
He was married 58 years to the former Anna Czerw.
Born in Avoca, son of the late Paul and Anna Yabconka Wanalista, he
was educated in Avoca schools. He was a member of SS. Peter and Paul Church,
Avoca. He worked in coal mines and was last employed at Cee-Kay Auto, Moosic,
prior to retirement.
Also surviving are four sons, Edward Jr., Melbourne, Fla.; Donald,
Mount Laurel, N.J.; Richard, Louisville, Ky.; and Charles, Avoca; two daughters,
Rose Ann Murphy, Moscow; and Mary Lou Adams, Skippack; a brother, Walter,
Avoca; a sister, Mary Betsko, Wyoming; 12 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren,
a great-great-grandchild, nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by two brothers, John and Rudolph; two sisters,
Anna McAndrew and Amelia Quinn; and a grandson.
The funeral was from the Ruane and Regan Funeral Home, 1308 Grove St.,
Avoca with Mass in SS. Peter and Paul Church, Avoca. Interment, parish
cemetery, Moosic.
RAYMOND J. FILIPKOSKI
Raymond J. Filipkoski, North Scranton, died October 6 at home after
an illness. His widow is the former Dolores Carey. They celebrated their
50th wedding annviersary May 6.
Born in Scranton, son of the late Joseph and Michaelina Filipkoski,
he was a graduate of Scranton Central High School. He was a Navy veteran
of World War II, serving as a radio man second-class. He received the European
and the American theater ribbon and the World War II Victory Medal. Prior
to retirement, he was a superintendent at A.& P. Supermarkets. He was
a member of St. Joseph's Church.
He was an avid bowler and had played minor league baseball. He was
a loving husband, father, grandfather and brother and will be sadly missed
by all who knew him. Also surviving are two sons, Raymond, Blakely; and
Ronald, Scranton; a sister, Florence Youshock, Moscow; four grandchildren,
nieces and nephews.
The funeral was from the Solfanelli-Fiorillo Funeral Home, Inc., 1030
N. Main Ave., with Mass in St. Joseph's Church, Main Avenue. Interment,
Cathedral Cemetery.
MARY PROKARYM
Mary Prokarym, 92, Throop, died September 21 at the Julia Ribaudo Nursing
Center, Lake Ariel. She was the widow of Frank Prokarym, who died on May
5, 1986.
Born in Throop, daughter of the late Thomas and Sophie Kromko Yurgovsky,
she was a lifelong Throop resident. She was a retired employee of the garment
industry. She was a member of St. John the Baptist Church, Throop.
Surviving are three sons, Adrian, at home; Francis, Arizona; and Thomas
Sherwood, Moscow; a sister, Catherine Rosol, Olyphant; several grandchildren;
nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by a daughter, Rosalie Gerber; two sisters,
Elizabeth Prokarym and Verna E. Wdovichik; and two brothers, Joseph and
James Yurgovsky.
The funeral was from the John F. Glinsky Funeral Home, 445 Sanderson
St., Throop, with Mass at St. John the Baptist Church, Throop, celebrated
by the Rev. August A. Ricciardi. Interment, parish cemetery.
ESTHER BURNSIDE
Esther Burnside, 84, a resident of Wesley Village, Pittston, formerly
of 106 Cemetery St., Avoca, died September 23 in the Hospice Preferred
Choice Unit in Mid-Valley Hospital, Peckville. She was the widow of Robert
Burnside, who died March 15, 1976.
Born Nov. 16, 1915, in Spring Brook, daughter of the late James and
Carrie Dyson Thomas, she settled in Wesley Village a month ago. She was
educated in Spring Brook schools and attended the Full Gospel Chapel, Avoca.
She was a homemaker.
Surviving are two sons, Robert and James, both of Pittston; a daughter,
Dolores Ozark, Avoca; three sisters, Emily VanLouvender and Florence Bentler,
both of Spring Brook; and Mildred Decker, Old Forge; seven grandchildren,
two great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by a sister, Martha Raub.
The funeral was from the Thomas P. Kearney Funeral Home, 517 Main St.,
Old Forge, with services by the Rev. A. Wayne Spurrell, pastor, Full Gospel
Chapel, Avoca. Interment Spring Brook Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice Preferred Choice Inc.,
1400 Main St., Peckville, 18452.
FRANK R. MISIURA
Frank R. Misiura, Olyphant, died September 20 at Community Medical
Center after an illness. His wife is the former Florence Shuta.
Born in Olyphant, son of the late Anthony and Mary Zarnowski Misiura,
he was a U.S. Army veteran of World War II, having served in the Pacific
theater of operations. He was a graduate of Olyphant High School. Prior
to retirement, he was employed as a quality control inspector by the Chamberlain
Corporation, Scranton. He was a member of St. Michael the Archangel Church,
Olyphant.
Also surviving are a son, Frank Jr., with the U.S. Navy; a daughter,
Laurie Ann, Germantown, Md.; three brothers, Thomas, Olyphant, Peter, Medway,
Maine; and Anthony, Moscow; four sisters, Sophie Hynak, Olyphant, Sister
Jeanette, Lawrence, Mass., Marge Karpa, Dickson City, and Hedy Faenza,
Milburn, N.J.; three grandchildren; nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by two brothers, Paul and Charles; three sisters,
Victoria Misiura, Catherine Falat and Nan Plas.
The funeral was from the Michael Wargo Jr. Funeral Home, 812 East Scott
St., Olyphant, with Mass in St. Michael the Archangel Church. Interment,
parish cemetery, Blakely.
JOHN M. HILL
John M. Jack Hill, South Scranton, died September 23 at home after
a brief illness. He and his wife, the former Josephine Nocella, celebrated
their 39th wedding anniversary April 29.
Born in Scranton, son of the late George and Hazel Reese Hill, he attended
Scranton Technical High School. Before retirement, he was employed by Scranton
Sheet Metal Co., and was a member of Sheet Workers Union 44. He was a member
of Immaculate Conception Church, Taylor Avenue.
A loving husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend, he was known
for his great sense of humor and showed kindness to all.
Also surviving are a son, John Jack Jr., Scranton; two granddaughters,
two sisters, Lillian Hawkins and Grace Richione, both of Scranton; five
brothers, Willard, Donald, Robert and George all of Scranton; and Thomas,
Moscow; nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by four sisters, Marion Evans, Ruth Walsh,
Eleanor Waltz and Margaret Muchler; and two brothers, Edward and William.
The funeral was from the Leon S. Gorgol Funeral Home, 1131 Pittston
Ave., with Mass in Immaculate Conception Church, Taylor Ave. Interment,
Cathedral Cemetery.