Skook News Obituaries: February 5th, 2021
Obituaries published from the Schuylkill County area.
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Born in Pottsville on July 20, 1968, a son of Gary L. Schaeffer, Sr., of Middleport and the late Sandra (Gradwell) Schaeffer.
Gary was a graduate of Pottsville Area High School and graduated in 1986. He then enlisted in the 1068th MP Company of the PA Army National Guard in 1986. He served in the unit in Pottsville as it transitioned into Alpha Battery, 1/213 thADA.Gary was hired full time by the National Guard in 1991 as a supply specialist. He deployed to Germany with the 213 th to conduct force protection and security missions at US bases at the start of the Iraq War. He went on to work full time with the 213 th Area Support Group in Allentown and the 56th SBCT based in Philadelphia.
Gary deployed to Taji, Iraq with the 56 th in 2009 as the Brigade S4 NCOIC. Gary retired after thirty years of service at the rank of Master Sergeant.His awards include the Combat Action Badge, Legion of Merit, Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, and a host of other service medals and ribbons.He will forever be remembered as a stellar soldier and one of the finest logisticians in the history of the PA Army National Guard.
Gary was a lifelong fan of the Green Bay Packers and was one of the few stockholders of the organization in the country. Gary was a man who owned every tool imaginable and he was always ready to help anyone with car or home projects.
He was a member of the F&AM Schuylkill Lodge #138 and the Community Fire Co., New Ringgold.
In addition to his father, Gary is survived by his companion Heather Rhodes, New Ringgold; a daughter Madalynne Schaeffer and her fiancé Nick Behm, Schuylkill Haven; brothers Brian husband of Jill, Scott and Eric, all of Pottsville; nieces Brea and Jayden; and his Norwegian Elkhound, Abby.
At the family's request, memorial donations may be forwarded to Mission 22 694 N. Larch Street #910 Sisters, OR 97759.
A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held Thursday, February 11 at 10:30 am at the Community Fire Co., New Ringgold with Pastor Robert Berry officiating.
A visitation will be held the night prior from 5-7 pm and the day of the service from 9:30 - 10:30 am.
Interment will be at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery, Annville.
Richard W. Graff, 78, of Orwigsburg, PA., passed away at Lehigh Valley Hospital Cedar Crest Allentown, PA. on February 4, 2021.
He was a member of the F&AM Schuylkill Lodge #138 and the Community Fire Co., New Ringgold.
In addition to his father, Gary is survived by his companion Heather Rhodes, New Ringgold; a daughter Madalynne Schaeffer and her fiancé Nick Behm, Schuylkill Haven; brothers Brian husband of Jill, Scott and Eric, all of Pottsville; nieces Brea and Jayden; and his Norwegian Elkhound, Abby.
At the family's request, memorial donations may be forwarded to Mission 22 694 N. Larch Street #910 Sisters, OR 97759.
A Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held Thursday, February 11 at 10:30 am at the Community Fire Co., New Ringgold with Pastor Robert Berry officiating.
A visitation will be held the night prior from 5-7 pm and the day of the service from 9:30 - 10:30 am.
Interment will be at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery, Annville.
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Born in Kempton, PA., he was the son of the late Warren O. and Mae E. (Oswald) Graff. Richard was a 1961 graduate of Kutztown High School. Richard worked as a sales representative for F.M. Browns, Inc. in Fleetwood, PA. for over 50 years until retiring. He was a member of Christ Delong U.C.C. Church in Bowers, PA., and was a member of the Kempton Rod and Gun Club, and Kutztown Dutchman Hunting Club. He was a longtime member and supporter of various farm clubs in his community, and several other nearby counties.
Survivors include his three daughters, Mandy K. Graff of Barto, PA., Kelly R. Geist of Kutztown, PA, and Marcy A. Graff and her companion Thomas L. Barlet of Lyons, PA.; three grandchildren, Ashley N. Stofflet, McKenzie L. Barlet, and Tanner A. Geist; brother, Kenneth R. (Sue) Graff of Stroudsburg, PA.; three sisters, Shirley (Merlin) Heller of Kempton, PA., Diane Windish of Fleetwood, PA., and Carol (Barry) Fegley, Sr. of Kutztown, PA.; loving companion, Daisey Sustello; many nieces, nephews, and friends. Richard was predeceased by his granddaughter, Kristy L. Stofflet.
There will be a public calling hour on Saturday, February 13, 2021 at the Robert S. Nester Funeral Home, 8405 Kings Highway New Tripoli, PA. 18066 from 10:00-11:00 AM, followed by a private family memorial service. COVID-19 restrictions will be followed.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Richard’s name may be made to the charity of your choice.
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Born in Pottsville, June 21, 1964 she was the daughter of Robert and Roseanne Push.
She graduated from Saint Clair High School in 1982.
Annette was initially a homemaker until her three children went to school. She then went to work at Mootz Candies, Boyers, Trail Gardens, and most recently at Wegman’s Distribution Center.
She loved to cook and bake delicious meals for her family. She was always looking for an adventure, whether that be feeding dolphins at Sea World or riding the rollercoasters at Knobel’s. Annette loved snuggling up with her dogs and watching old black and white horror films. She was widely known for her love of crafting and her DIY projects. Annette was an avid sewer and could make anything given enough time and materials. She was most at peace when on the beach, listening to the waves crash. She could be spotted chasing down the seagulls and feeding them out of her hand.
Annette also had a green thumb. She spent countless hours gardening and constructing her fairy garden. Nothing made her happier than sitting outside, admiring her flowers and watching the birds peck at the feeders. But, most importantly she loved spending time with her family.
Annette is survived by her husband Christopher Schweigert and their three children, CJ, Addie, and Olivia Schweigert. She is also survived by her younger sister Maria Nothstine.
In accordance with Annette’s wishes the family will be holding a private ceremony. Grabowski Funeral Home is entrusted with the services. Memories and condolences can be shared at www.grabowskifuneralhome.com
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