Obituaries

Michael J. Castrignano, 90, of Berlin, MD, was called home to the Lord on Tuesday, June 3, 2025 at home under the care of Coastal Hospice at the Lake. Born in Wilkes-Barre, he was the son of the late Dominick Castrignano and Marie (Lauzano) Castrignano. He graduated from St. Mary's High School, Wilkes-Barre. Michael's working history was diversified in multiple phases of the garment industry. His introduction was in garment manufacturing. He later managed the corporation, Basic Sportswear, controlling ordering, shipping, and distribution to national department stores. He was also owner and operator of retail sales outlets. He was an avid music lover and enjoyed his younger years playing saxophone with his band, "Casty and his Rythmaires". He spent the remainder of his retirement in Ocean City, MD. Michael was a member of Holy Savior Church in Ocean City, MD. He loved spending time with family and friends along with time at the beach. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Ann (Purcell) Castrignano, who passed away in 1981. Michael was blessed and was remarried to Rita (Koval) Castrignano for 32 years, preceding him in death in 2019, and also preceded by a stepson, Thomas Koval; a brother, Frank Castrignano; and stepgrandson, CJ Evans. Surviving is his two sons, Michael Castrignano Jr. of Ocean City, MD, and Dominic Castrignano and his wife, Gloria of New Port Richey, FL; He was a loving stepfather to Stepdaughter, Julieanne Evans and her husband, Chris of Plains Township. He was a loving grandfather of Michael Castrignano, Giovanna Castrignano, and Dominic Castrignano and four great grandchildren; Step grandchildren, Angela Petix, and Thomas and Tyler Koval; and brother, Dr. Dominic E. Castrignano. Funeral services will be held Friday at 9:30am from the Jendrzejewski Funeral Home, 21 North Meade Street, Wilkes-Barre, PA, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00am in St. Nicholas St. Mary's Parish Church, 226 South Washington Street, Wilkes-Barre. The Reverend Joseph Verespy, Pastor, will be Celebrant. Interment will follow in St. Mary's Cemetery, Hanover Township. Family and friends may call Thursday evening from 5:00 to 8:00pm at the funeral home.

Ronald Royek of Wilkes-Barre Township, passed away on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, surrounded by his loving family at Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center. Born November 24, 1938, Ron "The Barber" was the son of the late John and Mary Bartlomowicz Royek. He was the devoted husband of Patricia Conwell Royek. The couple would have celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary this October. Ron graduated from Wilkes-Barre Township High School in 1956 and the barber school in Wilkes-Barre in 1966. From December 1961 to November 1967, he served in the United States Army and United States Army Reserves. He owned and operated his barber shop on Scott Street in the East End Section of Wilkes-Barre for 45 years. Ron was a life-long member of St. Mary's Church of the Maternity, now Our Lady of Hope Parish, and was active for many years as a Eucharistic Minister. He participated in various church functions such as the Liturgical Committee, the Holy Name Society, and Chairman of the Bazaar. In addition to his parents, Ron was preceded in death by his son, Christian, and his brother-in-law, Ronald Rydzfski. He is survived by his wife, Pat; sisters, Eloise Rydzfski and Sharon Flynn; brothers-in-law, Robert Flynn and Robert Conwell; nephews, Ronald Rydzfski, Rodney Rydzfski, and Sean Flynn; and special family friend, Seri Mountz. The funeral will be held Saturday, June 7, 2025 at 11:00am from the Jendrzejewski Funeral Home, 21 North Meade Street, Wilkes-Barre, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:30am at Our Lady of Hope Parish, 40 Park Avenue, Wilkes-Barre. The Reverend John S. Terry, Pastor, will be Celebrant. Interment will follow in St. Mary's Maternity Cemetery, West Wyoming. Friends may call Friday from 4:00 to 7:00pm at the funeral home. Ron's family would like to thank the entire staff at the PCU and ICU units of Geisinger Wyoming Valley for the outstanding care he received.

Florence C. Williams, formerly of Seminary Road, Hanover Township, and Highland Manor, Wilkes-Barre, passed away peacefully with her family by her side on Friday, May 16, 2025. Born in Wilkes-Barre to the late John and Bertha Deptula Waltos, Florence was raised in the Mayflower section and graduated from Marymount High School in 1946. She went on to work as Legal Administrative Assistant to Judge Paul Sielecki, Judge Edward Lopato, and Judge Patrick Toole, with whom she worked for over 30 years until her retirement in 2001. After her retirement, she became an active volunteer at many organizations such as the Mercy Hospital Gift Shop, The Fine Arts Fiesta, The Wyoming Valley Duck Derby, and she was an usher at the Kirby Center. She received many honors, and pins, for her commitment in her years of service. Florence loved to keep active and exercise. For many years she enjoyed the pool at the YMCA, and water aerobics at John Heinz. She and her husband, Lenny, were also avid Polka Dancers and made cherished memories at local Polka events with friends, and the Annual Polka Weekend in Wildwood, NJ. They also loved to travel and went on many exciting trips through Europe, Poland, Canada, Alaska and Hawaii, to name a few. Florence made friends wherever she went and maintained those friendships for many years. Known for her warm, loving, generous and kind spirit, she brought joy to all who knew her. Her deep Catholic faith was the cornerstone of her life. A lifelong member of our Our Lady of Hope (formerly St. Mary’s of the Maternity Church), in Wilkes-Barre. She was a Eucharistic Minister, and brought the Holy Eucharist to the sick in hospitals and nursing homes. She also enjoyed volunteering at the church fundraising dinners, past bazaars, and was part of the pierogi making team, and the Sodality of the Blessed Virgin Mary Society. Holidays were very special to Florence. Spending time together with family meant everything to her. She was the heart of our family, our holidays, and we will treasure all of our special memories of her. She was a wonderful baker and cook, and her special dishes like her potato salad, apple, blueberry and rhubarb pies, family recipe filled cookies, Thanksgiving stuffing, and other treats, were a cherished part of family gatherings. We all loved her so much, and her favorite saying will forever echo in our hearts: ”I love you more.” In addition to her parents, John and Bertha Waltos, Florence was preceded in death by her loving and devoted husband, Leonard Williams (1993); and her brother, John Waltos (2018). Left to cherish Florence’s memory are her sisters, Regina Buczynski, Wilkes-Barre, and Mary Ann Dougherty, Laflin; nephews, Joseph Buczynski and wife, Marlene, Maryland, and Jim Dougherty, Florida; niece, Kathy Dougherty, Florida; and grand-nephew, Christopher Buczynski, Maryland; along with several cousins, and many dear friends. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 24, 2025, at Our Lady of Hope Church, 40 Park Ave, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702, with Reverend John S. Terry, Pastor, officiating. All are invited to attend. Family and Friends may call prior to the mass from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Saturday at the church. Entombment will be in St. Mary's Cemetery Mausoleum, Hanover Township.

Frederick Norman Shaffer, of Buck Township, passed away Friday, May 16, 2025, at his home, under the care of Residential Hospice. Born January 21, 1937, in Wilkes-Barre, he was the son of the late Clarence and Arline Dutter Shaffer. Fred attended Mount Pocono High School. He was self-employed as a contractor, operating Shaffer Construction. Fred was a member of the former Beaumont Methodist Church. He loved fishing, snowmobiling, doing yardwork, going to the casino, but most of all, he loved his wife, Eleanor, and spending his life with her. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Deborah Shaffer on July 5, 2022; granddaughter, Tara Lee Shaffer; and brothers, Raymond Shaffer, and Jerry "Chip" Shaffer. Surviving is his wife of 69 years, the former Eleanor Youkoski; sons, Frederick Norman Shaffer Jr. and his wife, Patricia of Wilkes-Barre, PA, Thomas "Tink" Shaffer and his wife, Diane of Newburg, SC, Robert Shaffer of Buck Township, PA, and Jeffrey Shaffer and his wife, Sheila of Buck Township, PA; daughter, Brenda Shaffer and her fiance, Michael Ghilerd of Archbald, PA; numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren; 1 great great grandson; brothers, William Shaffer of Wilkes-Barre, PA, Robert Shaffer and his wife, Lynn of Florida, and Larry Shaffer and his wife, Jeanette of Las Vegas, NV; and sisters, Mary Cerami and her husband, Joseph of Delaware, and Ruth "Corky" Hughes of White Haven, PA. Private funeral services were held by the Jendrzejewski Funeral Home, Wilkes-Barre. A Celebration of Life service will be announced at a later date.

Kathleen D. Yanchunas passed away swinging like a prizefighter in the early hours of Friday morning, May 9, 2025, after a one-two punch of complications following emergency surgery on Monday. Born to Joseph and Helen Dorko of McCarragher Street in Wilkes-Barre, Pa, July 5 1943. Kathy graduated from Marymount HS and Wilkes-Barre Business College. She married Joseph Yanchunas of Luzerne Pa and together they raised a family at their home in Harvey’s Lake. Kathy was beloved by her friends, family and her extended families. She loved cooking and baseball and once had a furry green hug from the Phanatic on Mother’s Day at a Phillies game in Veterans Stadium. She shared her love by kneading, baking and giving bread, and making and sharing desserts like her famous brownies and whoopie pies. She taught us how to cook, clean, make a proper bed, and joke about life. She loved her Grandchildren and spoiled them rotten, as she would say. Kathleen is pre-deceased by her parents and brothers Joseph and Thomas Dorko. She is survived by her loving husband of 60 years, Joseph Yanchunas; siblings Dr. Carl Dorko, William Dorko, and Helene Roccograndi; children, Joseph Yanchunas Jr. and Elisa (Lisa) Huncik; and grandchildren, Tobias and Sarah Yanchunas and Anastasia Huncik. She loved and was loved by her extended family, Bobby and Alex Wilson. Services will be held at Our Lady of Hope Church on Park Avenue in Wilkes-Barre on Thursday, May 15, with viewing at 10 am followed by Mass at 11. Lunch with family and friends will follow. We love you, Darling.

Lida Jean Gabriel, of Hanover Township, passed away Monday, May 5, 2025, at Allied Services Hospice, Meade Street, Wilkes-Barre. Born December 18, 1940, in Kingston, she was the daughter of the late Thomas and Jessie Williams Hughes. Lida Jean was a 1958 graduate of Westmoreland Senior High School, Trucksville. She was most recently employed as a front office supervisor at Orthopedic Consultants in Kingston. Lida Jean was a devout Catholic, holding membership at St. Robert Bellarmine Parish, Wilkes-Barre, and served as Lector, choir member and CCD teacher. She enjoyed ice cream, music, and especially loved spending time with her children and grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband and best friend, Gerald on October 24, 2020; her brother, Kenneth Hughes; granddaughter, Heather Long; and grandson, Zane Gabriel. Surviving are her sons, Brian Goode Sr. and his wife, Barbara of Plains, PA, and Mark Goode and his wife, Rachel of Cape Elizabeth, ME; daughters, Deborah Long of Kingston, PA, Jacqueline Yasenchak and her husband, Michael of Hanover Township, and Jennifer Gabriel of Hanover Township; stepchildren, Brian Gabriel and his wife, Michelle, Unknown, Kelly Gabriel of Swoyersville, PA, and Gerald Gabriel and his wife, Su of Philadelphia, PA; grandchildren, Brian Jr., Jesse, Courtney, Keira, Lucy, Julia, Quinn, Avery and Kali; great granddaughter, Braelyn; brother, Thomas Hughes of Plymouth, PA; sister-in-law Arlene Hughes of NY; and several nieces and nephews. A celebration of life will be held at a date to be determined. Services were provided by the Jendrzejewski Funeral Home, Wilkes-Barre.

Joseph Edmund Brazinski, 73, of Wilkes-Barre, passed away April 19, 2025, at Third Avenue Health Care, Kingston. Born March 24, 1952, in Wilkes-Barre, he was the son of the late Edmund and Josephine Starek Brazinski. Joseph was 1970 graduate of Marymount High School, Wilkes-Barre. Prior to retirement in 2011, he was employed by the Department of Environmental Protection on abandoned mine reclamation projects. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Theresa Cywinski in 2017. Surviving is his daughter, Miranda Brazinski; and nephews, Ryan and Scott Cywinski. Private funeral services will be held at the convenience of the family by the Jendrzejewski Funeral Home, Wilkes-Barre.

Fred Holtzman, 86 of Trucksville, PA, passed away Sunday, April 13, 2025, at his home under the care of Allied Services Hospice. Born November 4, 1938, in Trucksville, he was the son of the late Jacob and Helen Czapla Holtzman. Fred was a 1956 graduate of Westmoreland High School. He was employed as a sheet metal worker with the Local #44 for over 50 years. Fred enjoyed attending car shows and working in his yard. He was preceded in death by his wife of 67 years, Frances Holtzman on March 26, 2025; brothers, Ernest Holtzman and Arthur Holtzman; and sisters, Arline Climach, Ruth Murphy, Lucy Gougas, Lotty Hitchcock, and Betty Harbaugh. Surviving is his daughters, Donna Dymond of Swoyersville, and Linda Billings and her husband, Jon of Mehoopany; son, Mark Holtzman of Trucksville; grandchildren, Sarah Billings of Lehman, PA, Jamie Billings of Mehoopany, and Stacy Dymond of South Carolina; 3 great grandchildren; his sister, Naome Brunges of Palm Bay, FL; sister-in-law, Michaelene Lavin and her husband, Francis of Wilkes-Barre; and many nieces and nephews. Private funeral services will be held at the convenience of the family by the Jendrzejewski Funeral Home, Wilkes-Barre.

Rosemary D. Wisnewski, of Swoyersville, passed away Monday, April 7, 2025, at The Meadows Nursing Center, Dallas. Born December 17, 1937, in Wilkes-Barre, she was the daughter of the late Oscar and Mary Raub Graboske. Rosemary was a 1955 graduate of Coughlin High School, Wilkes-Barre. She will be remembered for her dedication and service as a Counselor at the Domestic Violence Service Center for over 40 years. A devoted Catholic, Rosemary was a member of Holy Family Parish, Luzerne. She enjoyed watching football and was an avid Philadelphia Eagle's fan. She was preceded in death by her husband, Patrick on May 3, 2010, and her sister, Arlene Lyons. Surviving sis her daughters, Laura Luise of Kingston, Patricia Sprague and her husband, George of Shavertown, and Paula Wisnewski of Swoyersville; grandchildren, George Sprague Jr., Trisha Sprague, and Vincent Luise; and great grandchildren, Vincent Luise Jr., Cole and Sage Vernon. Funeral services will be held Monday, April 14th, at 11:00am at the Jendrzejewski Funeral Home, 21 North Meade Street, Wilkes-Barre. Private interment will be in St. John's Cemetery, Dallas. Friends may call Monday morning from 10:00am until the time of services. Rosemary's family would like to thank Dr. Patrick Kilduff and the nurse and staff at The Meadows for their care and compassion.

Irene Mikula, 87 of Wilkes-Barre, passed away peacefully on April 3, 2025. Born in Wilkes-Barre, she was the youngest child of the late Stanley and Stephanie (Jamiolkowski) Pyzia. Preceding Irene in death besides her parents were brothers, Stanley and Leonard Pyzia; sisters, Theresa Ratchford and Dorothy Wincek; a daughter, Jane Vanchure; and six grandchildren. Surviving Irene are daughters Sharon Wilcox, Wilkes-Barre, and Betty Ann Magyar and her Husband Joseph, West Pittston; and son, Joseph Mikula Jr. and his partner Kip, Penn Lake. She is also survived by numerous great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. As per Irene's wishes, a private memorial was held, and internment will be at St. Mary's Maternity Cemetery, West Wyoming. Arrangements were entrusted to Jendrzejewski Funeral Home, Wilkes-Barre.

Frances A. Holtzman, of Trucksville, passed away Wednesday, March 26, 2025 at Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center, Wilkes-Barre. Born August 3, 1939, in Wilkes-Barre, she was the daughter of the late Michael and Anna Sweeney Ross. Frances was born and raised in the Heights Section of Wilkes-Barre and attended G.A.R. Memorial High School. She was employed in the area shoe industry for a short time and spent the rest of her time as a homemaker. Frances loved cooking, attending to her flower garden, dancing, and quilting. She was a member of St. Theresa's Parish, Shavertown. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister, Joanne Litwak. Surviving is her husband of 67 years, Frederick Holtzman; daughters, Donna Dymond of Swoyersville, and Linda Billings and her husband, Jon of Mehoopany; son, Mark Holtzman of Trucksville; grandchildren, Sarah White of Lehman, PA, Jamie Billings of Mehoopany, and Stacy Dymond of South Carolina; 3 great grandchildren, sister, Michaelene Lavin and her husband, Francis of Wilkes-Barre; and several nieces and nephews. Private funeral services will be held by the Jendrzejewski Funeral Home, Wilkes-Barre. A Memorial Service will be held at a later date.

This is a subtitle for your new post

This is a subtitle for your new post

Claudia Joyce (Eike) Hoffman, 77, of McClean St. Wilkes-Barre passed away peacefully Sunday February 16th, 2025. She was surrounded by her loving family She was born January 12th, 1948, daughter to Paul and Anne Eike of Wilkes-Barre, PA. Claudia graduated from E.L. Meyers High School class of 1966 and lived in Wilkes-Barre. She was married to her loving and devoted husband William Hoffman Sr. in 1970 and they spent the last of well over 50 years living by each others side raising a family and navigating life together. Simply put, Claudia loved everyone and everyone loved her. Especially her husband William Sr, 2 sons William Jr and Paul and 5 grandchildren-Tyler, Dorian, Luke, Amelia and Caleb Hoffman. Proceeding her in death were here mother and father Paul and Anne Eike, sisters Marie Hogan and Paula Lavelle. Along with her husband, sons and grandchildren she is survived by her oldest sister Annette Hinman, several cousins, nieces and nephews and close friends. As everyone knew, Claudia spoke her mind and pulled no punches, yet, was the most loving empathetic person you could know. Whether talking your ear off about her custom recipes or “pulling a Claudia” and doing something unexpected, there was no one quite like her. She will be missed immensely yet, memories of her with stay with us forever. She will be cremated by Jendrzejewski Funeral Home in Wilkes-Barre. As per the family's request there will be no funeral service but there will be a Celebration of life event planned in the near future. 

Raymond John Motyka., 68, of Wilkes-Barre, passed away February 16 2025 at Allied Services Hospice Center, Wilkes-Barre suddenly of cancer surrounded by loved ones. He was born in Wilkes-Barre on March 29th 1956, and was the son of the late John "Jimmy" Motyka and Leona Motyka. Raymond attended Myers High School, graduated from G.A.R. Memorial High School and Wilkes-Barre Vo-Tech machine shop. He worked as a machinist at R and H Manufacturing, Edwardsville for 38 years. Ray "Moe" enjoyed fixing his 1969 Buick Grand Sport and also was a member of the Bowling Green Kentucky GS Club. Where he rebuilt differentials for his fellow GS members from all around the world. Ray was also "Mr. FIX IT" of the neighborhood, always willing to offer a helping hand. He enjoyed cuddling with his furry friends Cayenne, Rico, Gemma and Sprocket just to name a few. Ray is survived by the love of his life Arlene Pambianco Motyka for the last 41 years. His two loving daughters Rebecca Hearst and husband Thomas of Nanticoke and Erica Motyka of Wilkes-Barre. Also his two grandchildren Hailey and Nathan Hockenbury of Nanticoke. In addition his brother in-law Billy Pambianco and wife Michele, sister in laws Mary Pambianco, Joann Plumer and husband Bryan, Lorraine Edwards and husband Bill and many loving nieces and nephews. We want to also remember Ray's best friends Noman, Dale, Basil, Joe, Wiggy, Gerry, Bill and Ray. He loved them all. A special thank you to the Wilkes-Barre General Hospital staff and all the angels at Wilkes-Barre Allied Hospice. As per Rays wishes, there will be no services. A memorial donation can be made to the SPCA of Luzerne County.

James R. "Jimmy" Atherholt, 69, of Plains Twp., passed away peacefully on Wednesday, February 12, 2025. Born on March 23, 1955, he was the son of the late Rena and William Atherholt. Jimmy grew up in the Heights section of Wilkes-Barre and carried a strong work ethic throughout his life. He spent time working on oil rigs in New Iberia, Louisiana, before returning home to work in construction for many years. For over 15 years, he was a dedicated employee of Diamond Manufacturing. A master of all trades, Jimmy excelled in carpentry, masonry, and construction, skills that he used not only in his career but also to help family and friends whenever needed. Jimmy was married to the love of his life, Deborah "Debbie" Atherholt, who preceded him in death. The couple shared 44 years of marriage, building a life filled with love and companionship. He was also preceded in death by his beloved sister, Donna Perhach. Surviving are his sister-in-law, Rebecca Ruchinski (Anthony); nieces, Alicia Dukes (David), along with their children, Arienna and Preston Dukes, all of Nanticoke; niece, Autumn Davis of Kingston (Bill); and nephew, William Kammerer of Forty Fort (Chrissy). The family will be privately celebrating Jimmy's life in the coming days and in place of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Jimmy’s name to a charity of choice.

Mollie Z. Pierce, of Wilkes-Barre, passed away Monday, February 10, 2025, at the Gino J. Merli Veteran's Center, Scranton. Born November 18, 1924, in Waller County, Texas, she was the daughter of the late Hallie B. and Alice Wilson. Private funeral services will be held by the Jendrzejewski Funeral Home, Wilkes-Barre.

The world is sadder today. James Wasilewski, 73, of Plains passed unexpectedly on February 6, 2025 with his loving wife Dyann at his side. Born July 6, 1951, in Wilkes-Barre, he is the son of the late Stanley and Eva Lebioda Wasilewski. He was a graduate of Marymount High School in Wilkes-Barre. As a Kodak partner for over 30 years, he shared his expertise to help perfect products for global markets. As a successful entrepreneur, Jim was the founder and CEO of Comprehensive Microfilm and Scanning Services, Inc. Jim was a firm but kind boss and a leader who always looked out for the welfare of his employees. He was well respected in the industry. Serving his community was a hallmark of Jim's legacy. For over 30 years, he was a dedicated and involved board member of the Deutsch Institute, an organization that was near and dear to his heart, serving as Vice Chairman of the Board. In his retirement, he devoted his time to building beds for Sleep in Heavenly Peace and spent time making pierogies for a local Polish church. People admired his selflessness and generosity. One of the joys of his life was traveling with his wife and son to most of the Caribbean Islands, Panama, Europe, and South America. He most recently fulfilled his dream to visit Poland and embrace his heritage. He devoted his life to his family and community and was one of the world's best storytellers and friends. He was a man of faith who cared for everyone among him. Jim was a force to be reckoned with, and quick with a smile. His infectious sense of humor and easy laugh were a joy to those who had the pleasure to know him. Jim was a creative problem solver and could fix anything. He always took a hands-on approach and continuously put others first. He is survived by his loving wife Dyann, with whom he celebrated 48 years of marriage, and their son Jason (Washington, DC), as well as cousins and countless cherished friends. In addition to his parents, Jim is preceded in death by his brothers Thomas, Henry, and Raymond. Family will receive friends and relatives from 5:00 to 7:00 PM on Tuesday, February 11 at Jendrzejewski Funeral Home, 21 North Meade Street, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702. A mass of Christian burial will be held at 10:00 AM on Wednesday, February 12 at Our Lady of Hope Parish, 40 Park Avenue, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702. Officiants will be Fr. John S. Terry and Very Rev. Fr. Lucian Urbaniak. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations in Jim's memory can be made to St. Joseph's Center, 2010 Adams Avenue, Scranton, PA 18509.

James R. Verdekal Jr., 70, passed away peacefully following a long illness. James was born October 26, 1954, in Wilkes-Barre to the late James and Noreen Payne Verdekal Sr. He attended G.A.R. Memorial High School, Wilkes-Barre. James worked and learned his trade in roofing while working with his father at J.R.V. Home Improvement Company and eventually started his own business, First Quality Construction. James was an avid hunter. He also coached flag football and softball teams. His greatest love was his garden in which he took pride in. He loved western movies especially John Wayne and M.A.S.H. He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Victor Verdekal; and sister, Rosaria Deangelo. Surviving is his son, James R. Verdekal III; daughter, Suzanne Noone; companion, Pam Aftewicz; and siblings, Ann Harden, Andrew Verdekal, Lucretia Sokoloski, Deandrea Verdekal, Vincent Verdekal, and Freddy Verdekal. Funeral services will be held Tuesday at 10:00am at the Jendrzejewski Funeral Home, 21 North Meade Street, Wilkes-Barre. The Reverend Vincent Dang will be Celebrant. Interment will follow in St. Mary's Cemetery, Hanover Township. Friends may call Monday evening from 5:00 to 8:00pm.

New Paragraph

Stella M. Fiorucci of Wilkes-Barre, passed away Tuesday, December 24, 2024 at Highland Park Senior Living, Wilkes-Barre Township. Born October 22, 1925, in Wilkes-Barre, she was the daughter of the late Joseph and Mary Collies Coveleskie. Stella was a 1943 graduate of Wilkes-Barre Township High School and was employed for many years as a seamstress at Rosmar Manufacturing, Wilkes-Barre. She and her late husband, who were married 70 years, were active members of the former Holy Trinity Church, Wilkes-Barre, and its Christian Society. They were also active with the Teamsters Union Local #401 and the Rainbow Citizens Club. She loved traveling extensively around the country with her husband by car or bus. Stella loved shopping, butterflies, gardening, and her little cockapoo dog, Margo, whom she enjoyed for 17 years. She especially enjoyed her 99th birthday party celebrated at Highland Park. She was preceded in death by her husband, Jerome on December 15, 2013; brothers, Carl, Ronnie, Richard, Walter, and Joseph Coleleskie; sisters, Geraldine Johns, Florence Coyle, Marie Henderson, and Kathleen Onacko. Surviving is her sons, Dennis Jerome Fiorucci and his wife, Mary Lou of Boerne, TX, and Donald L. Fiorucci and his wife, Joyce C. of Wilkes-Barre; grandchildren, Dennis J. Fiorucci and his wife, Cheri of Surprise, AZ, Tracy Smith of Wilkes-Barre, Heather Joy and David Burke of Duryea, PA, Ashley D. Fiorucci and Evan W. Wosocklo of Harrisburg, PA, and Allison and Carlos Gomez of Elmira, NJ; great grandchildren, William E. and Amanda Smith of Wilkes-Barre, and Stephan and Dane Fiorucci of Lynden, WA. Funeral services will be held Tuesday at 11:00am at the Jendrzejewski Funeral Home, 21 North Meade Street, Wilkes-Barre. Friends may call Tuesday morning from 10:30 am until time of services. Interment will be in St. Mary's Cemetery, Hanover Township.

Ronald David Pilch 66, born April 15,1958 in Wilkes Barre, PA, died at WB General Hospital on Dec 20,2024 after courageously battling health issues for many years. He was the eldest son of the late Peter Pilch and Marie Stavish Pilch. Ron graduated from GAR H.S. and went on to work for Revlon Inc. in NY, AZ, and NC. Following retirement and returning to the area to be near family, Ron, Penni and their children lived in South Auburn, PA. Ron loved his family above all else, especially his grandchildren who he cherished. Ron was an avid AZ Cardinals and Phoenix Suns fan. He loved hunting, fishing and being outdoors in the beauty of nature. Ron was predeceased by his father Pete Pilch and his wife Penni Norton Pilch. He will be deeply missed by his mother Marie Stavish Pilch, son Zane Pilch (Jessica Anderson) and daughter Kimberly Pilch. Brothers; Thomas (Michelle) Pilch and Gary Pilch. Grandchildren: Alex Pilch, Lillianna Pilch, Ethan Jones and Ember Jones. Father-in-law; Philip Norton, Sister-in-law; Jennifer Norton, Brother-in-law; Alan Norton and numerous nieces and nephews, especially Michael Pilch with whom he had a special bond. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10AM, Thursday Dec 26, 2024 at Our Lady of Hope Church, 40 Park Ave, Wilkes Barre, PA. Friends may pay respects at the church from 9:00am until time of Mass. The family would like to thank the ICU staff at WB General Hospital and all those who cared for Ron over the years. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to a charity of choice.

Walter F. Letanski Jr., 72, of Wilkes-Barre, passed away on December 11, 2024 surrounded by his family after a brief illness. Walter was the owner of a longstanding local business, Walter's Hardware, which proudly served the area's DIYers and hobbyists for more than 70 years. He was an avid R/C plane enthusiast, problem solver, and friend to many. He was a 1970 graduate of Marymount High School. He graduated from Penn State Wilkes-Barre in 1972 with a degree in Electrical Engineering. Walter is survived by his wife of 50 years, Karen; his daughter Lauren and husband Matthew Evans, of Pittsburgh, PA; his son Walter III and wife Amanda Letanski of Wilkes-Barre; and a niece, Summer, and nephew, Rick. He was a proud and devoted Pop-Pop to four grandchildren - Elizabeth, Olivia, James and Jacob. Walter was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Helen Letanski, and sisters Patricia Atkinson and Christine Letanski. Funeral services will be held Saturday at 9:30am from the Jendrzejewski Funeral Home, 21 North Meade Street, Wilkes-Barre, with a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00am at Our Lady of Hope Parish, 40 Park Avenue, Wilkes-Barre. The Reverend John S. Terry, Pastor, will be Celebrant. Interment will follow in Holy Trinity Cemetery, Bear Creek. Friends may call Friday evening at the funeral home from 4:00 to 8:00pm.

Mary Ann Elick of Wilkes-Barre Township passed away Monday, December 2, 2024, at Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center. Born January 16, 1951, in Wilkes-Barre, she was the daughter of the late Edward and Frances Orleski Czock. Mary was a 1969 graduate of Wilkes-Barre Township High School. She was preceded in death by her sisters, Theresa Vilegi and Dorothy O'Donnell; and brother, Edward Czock Jr. Surviving is her husband of 54 years, Gerald W. Elick; daughter, Michelle Sheldon of Wilkes-Barre Township; grandchildren, Michael J. Sheldon and Elizabeth A. Sheldon; brothers, Peter, Stanley, and Robert Czock; and sisters, Patricia Landi, Frances Lanning, Darlene Pantle, Dolores Sedeski, and Bernadine Hurst. Private funeral services were held by the Jendrzejewski Funeral Home, Wilkes-Barre.

Jake R. Zdanowicz

Marie E. Bozentka

John L. Etter Sr.

William Honeywell Jr.

Ada Scorey

Barbara James

Theresa "Tesi" Klepadlo

Shelley R. Longfoot

John J. Nalepa Jr.

Raymond J. Golightly

Robert J. Falchek III

Evelyn Ann Taylor

Diana Rose Borum

Michael J. Kelly

Leonard F. Witczak

Evelyn R. Antonishak

Vincenzo E. Aleo

Patricia L. Pisano

Marie A. Remphrey

Patricia L. Misson

Gertrude M. Woods

Linda Lee Ann Zdipko

David Bartnick