Skook News Obituaries: November 29th, 2022
Obituaries published from the Schuylkill County area.
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Born in Ashland on July 26, 1944 he was the son of the late Helen S. (Berrigan) and John Kenneff.
He was of the Catholic faith and was a member of St. Charles Borromeo, Ashland.
Jim was a graduate of Ashland High School Class of 1962.
Jim served in the Navy during Vietnam.
He was last employed as a historical carpenter for Eckley Miners’ Village in Weatherly.
Jim enjoyed hunting, fishing, and camping. He was also a member of American Hose No. 1 and VFW Post 7654-Ashland.
He is survived by his friend and caregiver Aloysius Burns III, Ashland; cousin Cindi Shearn-Muldoon; also, Aloysius & Sadie-Mae Burns; several other distant cousins.
Graveside services with full military honors will be held on Monday, December 5th at 10:30am at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery, 60 Indiantown Gap Road, Annville PA 17003 with Fr. Giuseppe C. Esposito officiating.
To extend online condolences visit www.kullfuneral.com. Kull-Heizenroth Funeral Home Inc., 901 Centre St, Ashland PA 17921has been entrusted with the arrangements.
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Born in Coaldale on September 1, 1923, Anna was a daughter of the late John and Mary (Gabriel) Prekopa. A 1941 graduate of Coaldale High School, she was employed at the Atlas Powder Company in Reynolds, PA prior to raising her family. When Anna returned to the workforce, she was employed as a seamstress at the Kiddie Kloes factory in Lansford, PA. Anna was a member of the First Congregational Church in Coaldale and the Orwigsburg Chapter of the Eastern Star. When not spending time with family, she loved to read, take walks, and bake.
Anna is survived by her son, Garth D. Jones and his wife Patricia of Coaldale; grandson, Jacob Jones of Coaldale; step grandchild, Crystal; step great grandchild, Chyna; sister, Evelyn Caputo of Lansford; and numerous nephews and nieces.
She was predeceased by a son, F. Scott Jones in 1996; sisters, Mary Kodlick, Margaret Kodlick, and Irene Kissner; and brother, John Prekopa.
Services will be held at 11 AM on Friday, December 2, 2022, at the Zizelmann-Gulla Funeral Home, 500 East Broad Street, Tamaqua with The Rev. Dr. Wayne Benack officiating. Interment in Sky View Memorial Park, Hometown will follow the services. Call 10-11 AM on Friday at the funeral home.
Memorials in Anna’s name may be made to First Congregational Church, c/o Lois Richards, 218 West Broad Street, Tamaqua, PA 18252.
Arrangements are being handled by the Zizelmann-Gulla Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc., Tamaqua.
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Lois was the matriarch of our family and was one of a kind. Her sense of humor right to the end made us laugh and smile. Lois was a homemaker, seamstress and dedicated member of Trinity United Church of Christ, Pottsville, PA, where she was a Sunday school teacher, church organist and choir director for many years.
Lois loved her family, walking with her sister Marian, sewing, quilting and loved to play scrabble. If Lois didn’t win, she was not happy. Lois will be greatly missed by all.
The family extends their gratitude to the amazing staff at Heather Glen Senior Living and Ascend Hospice for their love, care and support. Lois was truly loved by the staff that took wonderful care of her. We will be forever grateful.
Lois was preceded in death by her parents, (Walter and Doris Hurst), husband (Raymond Lowthert), sister (Marian Miller), sister (Jean Dilcher), and son-in-law (James Hampford).
Surviving is her brother, Edward Hurst and his wife, Gayle, (New Cumberland, PA); brother, Kenneth Hurst, (Tow, TX); daughter, Deborah Deibert and her husband, David (Auburn, PA); daughter, Diane Hampford, (Pottsville, PA); daughter, Donna Knight and her husband, Charles, (Orefield, PA); grandchildren: Brett Jones, Alison Bierman, Sean Hampford, Dustin Deibert & Dara Moucheron; great grandchildren: Emma, Aidan, Libby, Colton, Brady, Everly, Hailey, Hank, and Harper; nieces and nephews.
Funeral Services will be held on Thursday, December 1st at 11:00 a.m. at Lord-Bixler Funeral Home, Inc., 1818 Mahantongo St., Pottsville with Pastor Greg Hafer officiating.
A viewing will be held on Wednesday evening 6:00-8:00 p.m. and on Thursday morning from 10:00 a.m. until time of service in the funeral home.
Interment will follow in Odd Fellows Cemetery, Pottsville.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Trinity United Church of Christ, 316 W. Market St, Pottsville, PA 17901.
Lord-Bixler Funeral Home, Inc. is in charge of arrangements.
Bernard John Bernatonis, 84, of Cascade, Montana, passed away on Tuesday, October 18, 2022.
Bernard was born on August 10, 1938, in Minerville, Pennsylvania to Frank and Catherine (Holley) Bernatonis. He had two sisters and one brother.
Education was one of his strongest tenants. Starting with Butch’s graduation from Nativity High School on 8 June 1956. He furthered his studies at Pennsylvania State University, then completed his degree program at the University of Southern California, graduating with a Master of Science in Systems Management on 2 September 1972. He continued his journey for knowledge, while following his passion for the outdoors. He was awarded a Bachelor of Science in Resource Development from the University of Rhode Island on 13 of June 1982. Bernie didn’t stop there. He continued to combine his educational path with his career, as well as his love for fishing. He was awarded his Master of Science degree from the University of Rhode Island in Fisheries, Aquaculture and Pathology, on 28 December 1987. Bernard was a member of the American Fisheries Society and was awarded the title of Associate Fisheries Scientist on 10 June 1989.
Bernard had a long and distinguished military career. He enlisted in USAF on 9 August 1955 and after completing Basic Training he went direct to technical training at March Air Force Base CA. He graduated as a Radio Traffic Analysis apprentice on 17 June 1956. Follow on training was completed at the National Security Agency in Special Traffic Analysis on 30 August 1957. He then went to his Duty Station, Okinawa Japan, where he was responsible for the translation and reporting of intercepted radio traffic throughout Southeast Asia. He was given an Honorable Discharge as an Airman 2nd Class on 8 August 1962. After his first enlistment was completed, he returned home to Pennsylvania to complete college. Bernard re-joined the Active-Duty Air Force, being awarded the rank of 2nd Lieutenant upon completion of Officer Candidate School in December 1964. He went on to graduate the Communications Officer Course on 28 December 1965. Bernie then was assigned to the 5th Tactical Communications Group, Clark Air Force Base, Philippines, where he had his first child, Angela. During his time there as a Communications officer he was routinely deployed to the Vietnam conflict where he was responsible to support forward operating bases throughout Southeast Asia with Troposcatter communication systems and radio repeater site engineering and installation. These locations were routinely positioned on hills and mountain tops and were often under enemy fire from the foothills while the teams were dropped by helicopter on the top. His next assignment in November of 1967, was to the Air Force Space and Missile systems organization, Minot Air Force Base, ND. He was promoted to the rank of Captain and was instrumental in the Strategic Communication systems that enabled the defense of the United States during the build up to the Cold War. Later, these same designs and lessons in message traffic and connectivity became the birthplace of the Advanced Research Projects Agency Network, ARPNET, and the Internet. His last duty station in the Active Duty Air Force was at the Air Force Satellite Control Facility, Los Angeles, CA, in May 1969. During his time in California, he supported the United States Space and Satellite programs He also became the father of his two sons, Alex and Anthony. He received his second Honorable discharge from the Air Force on 31 July 1974. He didn’t stop there, enlisting in the Michigan Air National Guard on 15 February 1975. Captain Bernatonis was assigned to the 191st Combat Support Squadron Selfridge Air Station, MI. Bernie stayed with this unit for only a short time. In September of 1976, he moved his family to Rhode Island and joined the 281st Combat Communications Group, Coventry, RI. There he was promoted to the rank of Major and was a pioneer in operational planning and training, establishing many “best to date” communications contingency plans for both the Air Force and the Town of Coventry. His son Alex is currently enlisted in the Rhode Island Air National Guard and was assigned to the 281st as well, until the unit was closed in 2014, a ceremony that Bernie attended. On 30 November 1982, he was given his third and final Honorable Discharge from the Rhode Island National Guard, concluding his military career.
His love of family has been well documented in pictures and written word. He had passion for the mystery that is the Bernatonis family tree. Genealogy was a love that his curious mind enjoyed. The countless trips to the churches and grave sites of his ancestors in Lithuania, Pennsylvania, Wales as well as the National Archive libraries around the country, ignited a fire within him. He has documented, in detail, all his direct descendants, friends and even the occasional acquaintance. He was so great at the tasks and so passionate in the work that he would spend the time to track down long lost relatives of anyone that asked him. Bernard continued this work up until his last year of life. He hopes that this monumental library of history will be continued in the future for others to enjoy.
Bernard was an avid fisherman and hunter. Moving to Montana full time in 2007 allowed him to catch the massive trout in the Missouri river that was only footsteps from his house. He loved taking his Pontoon boat to Holter Lake to troll and night fish for the big rainbows that flourished there. He was not a trophy hunter. He enjoyed harvesting native animals for the table. Canning and smoking the fish he caught was an artform. He loved to eat the bounties he prepared, all year long. Later in life he would annually hunt mule deer and process into jerky and steaks to enjoy. He accomplished a lifelong goal of harvesting an elk in Montana in 2017 with his son Alex by his side. A memorial to this and his life has been placed at his “Bernatonis Ranch” in Dearborn, MT.
Above all else, he was a devoted father. He gave everything to ensure the life and happiness of his children and grandchildren flourished. He was always available and ready to lend his heart to any effort that was requested, no matter how dangerous or painful it was. He carried the load for all our family, he internalized and consumed it so that his family could continue to move forward.
He is survived by his daughter; Angela (Bernatonis) Ferreira of West Warwick, Rhode Island, and his sons; Alex Bernatonis SMSgt, US Air Force, of Coventry, Rhode Island and Anthony Bernatonis of Great Falls as well as his companion of 13 years, Maggie Welzenback of Great Falls; grandchildren, Alex Jr., Evan, and McKayla Bernatonis, and Devin and Brenden Ferreira; and sisters, Gloria Bertonis of Levittown, Pennsylvania and Carol (Bernatonis) Miranda of San Jose, California. Bernard was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Catherine; and brother, Donald Bernatonis.
Throughout his final planning, he was still considering his family. When he planned his death, he considered travel for his guests. So, three services were arranged.
On October 21st, 2022, a small service for his children and life partner was held at the O’Connor Funeral Home, Great Falls MT.
On November 5th, 2022, Wake services were held for his New England Friends and Family, at the Ionnotti Funeral Home, Maple root, Coventry RI.
Lastly, Bernard will be traveling to Pennsylvania for final services. The family will accept visitors at Dutcavich Funeral Home, 200 Sunbury Street, Minersville on Saturday, December 10, from 8:00 A.M. Visitation will end promptly at 9:15 A.M. when procession will form. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 A.M. in St. Matthew the Evangelist Church, 139 Spruce Street, Minersville. Interment with military honors will be in St. Francis of Assisi Cemetery, Branch Township.
Donald M. Heim, 91 years of age, formerly of West Brunswick Township Orwigsburg, passed away on Sunday, November 27, 2022, at Juniper Village in Mount Joy, Pennsylvania.
Born Sunday, March 1, 1931 in Walker Twp., Schuylkill Township, Donald was the son of the late Norman L., and Estella (Merkel) Heim. Donald was also predeceased by; his wife of 68 years, Virginia E. (Freeman) Heim on August 20, 2021; step mother, Marion (Nester) Henninger - Heim; sisters, Annabella Koch, and Darlene Stein; brother Harold Henninger.
Surviving are brothers, Jerry Heim, Richard Henninger, David Henninger and his wife Marlyn; godson, John Heim. Many nieces, nephews also survive Donald, while tending to his care.
Donald served honorably in the United States Army during the Korean War, and drove truck for a living. He and Virginia where longtime members of Kimmels Free Evangelical Church of Orwigsburg. Donald enjoyed tending to his home, and collecting antique vehicles.
Private arrangements entrusted to the Robert S. Nester Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc. of 2066 West Penn Pike New Ringgold, Pennsylvania 17960. (570) 386-5884
Leona E. Ratomski, 90 of Shenandoah passed away on Sunday, November 27, 2022 at AuthoraCare Hospice House, Burlington, North Carolina.
Funeral services and interment will be announced at a later date by Walukiewicz-Oravitz Fell Funeral Home, 132 South Jardin Street, Shenandoah.
Lloyd C. Bordner, 75, of Tower City, passed away Monday afternoon, November 28, 2022 at his home surrounded by his family.
Born in Wiconisco, October 31, 1947, a son of the late Lloyd Bordner and Alma Strohecker Keister.
Lloyd was retired from Harman Stove, Halifax.
Lloyd and Mary Alice could often be found out and about socializing with their many friends. He always looked forwards to the holidays, where he could be found dressed like Santa Clause or a leprechaun.
He was a member of the Tower City Loyal Order of Moose, Pine Grove H H & L Fire Company, Pine Grove Fish and Game, Pine Grove VFW, Union Fire Company, Bethel, and the Sons of the Fredericksburg American Legion. He was an avid dart player, where he played in the Upper Dauphin Dart League for over 40 years, still holding numerous records. He also enjoyed hunting.
In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by siblings, Cloyd, Ronald (Snook), Richard (Bud), and Kenneth (Tom) Keister, and Ernest Bordner.
Surviving are his wife of 39 years, Mary Alice Quinn Bordner; his children, Lloyd Bordner, Jr, Wiconisco, Dennis Bordner and his wife Michelle, Williamstown, Jason Bordner and his wife Shannon, Tower City, and Kristen Borwegen and her husband Andrew, Mechanicsburg; two sisters, Doris Hubler, Tremont and Sandra Bensinger, Lykens; a brother, Gary Keister, Pottsville; grandchildren Heather Werdt and her husband Cody, Hunter Bordner, Cameron, Alix, Samantha, Amanda, Andrew, Kathryn, Bethanee, Marie, and Grayson; great grandchildren, Maci, Nova, and Willow Werdt; numerous nieces and nephews.
A Celebration of Lloyd's Life will be held on Friday, December 2, 2022 at 2:00 pm from the Chapel of the Dimon Funeral Home, Inc., Tower City with Pastor Krista Keisling officiating. Visitation will be from 1-2 pm at the chapel. Following the services everyone is invited to the Pine Grove VFW for a luncheon and time of fellowship.
Donna L (Richards) Bloch, age 73, of Hegins, passed away Sunday, November 27, 2022 at her residence.
She was born on Friday, September 30, 1949, in Pottsville, a daughter of the late Harold R Richard and the late Hazel W (Shade) Richard.
She was a 1967 graduate of Tri-Valley High School.
Donna had worked in area garment factories and then worked at AMP, Tower City, and retired from Tyco Lickdale. After retirement she worked part time at Knoebel's Grove Amusement Park.
She was a member of St. Andrew's United Methodist Church, Valley View.
Donna was a volunteer for years with the Hegins Area Ambulance Association and the former Valley View Fire Company. She was also a volunteer with the Valley View Park Association for several annual events.
Her husband Ronald H Bloch passed away in 2012.
She is survived by two sons, Rahn A Richards of Tremont and Jeremy D Richards of Hegins; six grandchildren; two sisters, Sally L Miller of Valley View and Carol Wilkes of Georgia; a brother, Russell H Richard of Valley View; and several nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be held at St. Andrew's United Methodist Church, Valley View, on Tuesday, December 6, 2022, at 11:00 am, with Rev. Curtis Zemencik officiating.
Visitation will be held from 10:00 am to 11:00 am on Tuesday at the church.
Burial will be in St. Andrew's Cemetery, Valley View.
Buffington-Reed Funeral Home, Inc., Valley View, is in charge of arrangements.
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Catherine J. "Honey" Schaeffer, 87, of Pine Grove passed away Monday on her birthday while a resident of Seton Manor.
Born in Pottsville, in 1935, she was the daughter of the late Frank and Gertrude Drent Quattrociocchi.
Catherine attended Pottsville Area School District. She was formerly a member of St. Patrick's Roman Catholic Church in Pottsville and she last worked for Cressona Knit.
Throughout her life Catherine was always willing to help others in need. She participated in the PTA when her children were small as well as helping in local elections. Catherine was always very family oriented and outgoing. She also enjoyed working on puzzles and reading in her free time.
Catherine met her husband James W. Schaeffer while roller skating at "The Ritz" many years ago.
In addition to her parents Catherine is preceded in death by her siblings, sisters, Stella Brown, Alice Borrell, Patsy Fessler, Esther Thomas, Lucy Hutchings, Betty Bonan and brothers, Frank, Pete, Johnny, and Louis Quattrociocchi.
In addition to her loving husband James, Catherine is survived by her daughter Cheryl Heffner wife of Leo, Sheree Minnich wife of Scott, and James W. Scheffer Jr. husband of Melanie. She is also survived by loving sister Dorothy Pauley along with grandchildren, Cody, Jesse, Samantha Schaeffer and Shane and Justin Minnich, and great grandchildren Chase, Victoria, Isabella, Matix, Dylan and Hudson.
A funeral service will be held on Friday at Grabowski Funeral Home, Schuylkill Haven at 11:00 A.M. A viewing will be held from 10:00 A.M. until the time of services. Interment will follow on the grounds of Schuylkill Memorial Park, Schuylkill Haven. In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made to the American Cancer Society, https://donate3.cancer.org/.
Christina D. "Tina" Stephen, 73 of Pottsville, died Monday at Lehigh Valley Hospital-Cedar Crest, Allentown. In keeping with Tina's wishes there will be no services.
Arrangements are under the care of James E. Humphrey Funeral Home, Pottsville.
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Justina “Tina” G. Cherapan-Eisenhart, 72 of Mount Carmel, formerly of Ashland joined her beloved family, friends, and Heavenly Father on Saturday, November 26, 2022.
The daughter of late Peter M. Cherapan and late Mary S. (Krolick) Cherapan, she was born in the former Ashland Hospital, the first born of their three children. Always a go getter, she graduated from North Schuylkill High School in 1967, before taking classes at the Ford School of Business.
In 1977, she became a mother to Ruth and Chester Martz and on January 3, 1987, she married the love of her life and soulmate, Charles W. Eisenhart. Tina held a variety of factory jobs as a secretary before joining Keystone Human Services as a support professional and eventually as supervisor. She resumed the support professional role after her retirement in 2015 still working two days a week with individuals with intellectual disabilities. Tina enjoyed a variety of things in life but especially music, tv series, animals, her faith, and word games such as scrabble.
Tina was preceded in death by her parents; grandparents; children, Ruthie and Chester; sister, Donna Cherapan-Stephenson; brother-in-law, William “Bill” Stephenson III as well as numerous beloved uncles, aunts, cousins and close friends.
She is survived by her loving husband Charles W. Eisenhart; granddaughter, Kassondra M. Martz her loving travel buddy and her partner Jocelyn “Bee” Ford; granddaughter, Dominique Dittman; grandson, Paul Dittman; daughter-in-law, Michelle Martz; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, great nieces, great nephews, and several great grandchildren as well as extended family and beloved friends.
Divine Liturgy will be held on Thursday, December 1, 2022 at 11:00 a.m. at SS Peter & Paul Ukrainian Catholic Church, Mount Carmel with the Very Rev. Archpriest Michael Hutsko, Pastor officiating. Interment will be private. A viewing will be held Thursday morning from 10 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. at the church. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to SS Peter & Paul Building Fund, 131 North Beech Street, Mt. Carmel or Mommy and Me Pet Rescue, 610 East Fifth Street, Mt. Carmel, PA 17851. Joseph J. Stutz, Inc. Funeral Home, 40 South Market St. Mt. Carmel, Joseph J. Stutz, III Supervisor has been entrusted with the arrangements.
Marylou Kull, 61, of Pottsville passed away November 26th, 2022, after a long, hard fought battle with cancer, surrounded by her family at the Lehigh Valley Hospital in Pottsville. She was considered a walking miracle by her doctors. She is well deserving of her wings.
Marylou was born in Pottsville on August 2, 1961, the daughter of the late William and Ruth (Schoffstall) Beury.
She attended Minersville High School, and last worked for Tension Envelope, St. Clair. As a youngster she was a member of Zion Lutheran Church in Minersville, and then later attended The Salvation Army.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by two brothers, James and Robert Beury, a sister, Susan Kostinko, and two grandchildren, Ryan Joseph Julian and baby girl Fessler.
Marylou is survived by her husband, Richard E. Kull, along with daughters Jennifer Beury, Rina Sementilli, Angela Sementilli, Paula Sementilli, Pamela Sementilli and son Joshua Kull.
She is also survived by grandchildren, Nicole, Gianna, Joseph, Zaria, Jayden, Justin, Madison, Cailyn and Quinton. Great grandchildren, Trey, Sahira, TJ and Lukas, along with her best friend, Lois Kull.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend a funeral service on Saturday, December 3, 2022 at 11 AM at the Schlitzer Allen Pugh Funeral Home, West Market Street, Pottsville.
A viewing will be held from 9 AM until the time of the service.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Marylou's name are asked to be made to the Salvation Army, or to the Simon Kramer Institute.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Trinity United Church of Christ, 316 W. Market St, Pottsville, PA 17901.
Lord-Bixler Funeral Home, Inc. is in charge of arrangements.
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Bernard was born on August 10, 1938, in Minerville, Pennsylvania to Frank and Catherine (Holley) Bernatonis. He had two sisters and one brother.
Education was one of his strongest tenants. Starting with Butch’s graduation from Nativity High School on 8 June 1956. He furthered his studies at Pennsylvania State University, then completed his degree program at the University of Southern California, graduating with a Master of Science in Systems Management on 2 September 1972. He continued his journey for knowledge, while following his passion for the outdoors. He was awarded a Bachelor of Science in Resource Development from the University of Rhode Island on 13 of June 1982. Bernie didn’t stop there. He continued to combine his educational path with his career, as well as his love for fishing. He was awarded his Master of Science degree from the University of Rhode Island in Fisheries, Aquaculture and Pathology, on 28 December 1987. Bernard was a member of the American Fisheries Society and was awarded the title of Associate Fisheries Scientist on 10 June 1989.
Bernard had a long and distinguished military career. He enlisted in USAF on 9 August 1955 and after completing Basic Training he went direct to technical training at March Air Force Base CA. He graduated as a Radio Traffic Analysis apprentice on 17 June 1956. Follow on training was completed at the National Security Agency in Special Traffic Analysis on 30 August 1957. He then went to his Duty Station, Okinawa Japan, where he was responsible for the translation and reporting of intercepted radio traffic throughout Southeast Asia. He was given an Honorable Discharge as an Airman 2nd Class on 8 August 1962. After his first enlistment was completed, he returned home to Pennsylvania to complete college. Bernard re-joined the Active-Duty Air Force, being awarded the rank of 2nd Lieutenant upon completion of Officer Candidate School in December 1964. He went on to graduate the Communications Officer Course on 28 December 1965. Bernie then was assigned to the 5th Tactical Communications Group, Clark Air Force Base, Philippines, where he had his first child, Angela. During his time there as a Communications officer he was routinely deployed to the Vietnam conflict where he was responsible to support forward operating bases throughout Southeast Asia with Troposcatter communication systems and radio repeater site engineering and installation. These locations were routinely positioned on hills and mountain tops and were often under enemy fire from the foothills while the teams were dropped by helicopter on the top. His next assignment in November of 1967, was to the Air Force Space and Missile systems organization, Minot Air Force Base, ND. He was promoted to the rank of Captain and was instrumental in the Strategic Communication systems that enabled the defense of the United States during the build up to the Cold War. Later, these same designs and lessons in message traffic and connectivity became the birthplace of the Advanced Research Projects Agency Network, ARPNET, and the Internet. His last duty station in the Active Duty Air Force was at the Air Force Satellite Control Facility, Los Angeles, CA, in May 1969. During his time in California, he supported the United States Space and Satellite programs He also became the father of his two sons, Alex and Anthony. He received his second Honorable discharge from the Air Force on 31 July 1974. He didn’t stop there, enlisting in the Michigan Air National Guard on 15 February 1975. Captain Bernatonis was assigned to the 191st Combat Support Squadron Selfridge Air Station, MI. Bernie stayed with this unit for only a short time. In September of 1976, he moved his family to Rhode Island and joined the 281st Combat Communications Group, Coventry, RI. There he was promoted to the rank of Major and was a pioneer in operational planning and training, establishing many “best to date” communications contingency plans for both the Air Force and the Town of Coventry. His son Alex is currently enlisted in the Rhode Island Air National Guard and was assigned to the 281st as well, until the unit was closed in 2014, a ceremony that Bernie attended. On 30 November 1982, he was given his third and final Honorable Discharge from the Rhode Island National Guard, concluding his military career.
His love of family has been well documented in pictures and written word. He had passion for the mystery that is the Bernatonis family tree. Genealogy was a love that his curious mind enjoyed. The countless trips to the churches and grave sites of his ancestors in Lithuania, Pennsylvania, Wales as well as the National Archive libraries around the country, ignited a fire within him. He has documented, in detail, all his direct descendants, friends and even the occasional acquaintance. He was so great at the tasks and so passionate in the work that he would spend the time to track down long lost relatives of anyone that asked him. Bernard continued this work up until his last year of life. He hopes that this monumental library of history will be continued in the future for others to enjoy.
Bernard was an avid fisherman and hunter. Moving to Montana full time in 2007 allowed him to catch the massive trout in the Missouri river that was only footsteps from his house. He loved taking his Pontoon boat to Holter Lake to troll and night fish for the big rainbows that flourished there. He was not a trophy hunter. He enjoyed harvesting native animals for the table. Canning and smoking the fish he caught was an artform. He loved to eat the bounties he prepared, all year long. Later in life he would annually hunt mule deer and process into jerky and steaks to enjoy. He accomplished a lifelong goal of harvesting an elk in Montana in 2017 with his son Alex by his side. A memorial to this and his life has been placed at his “Bernatonis Ranch” in Dearborn, MT.
Above all else, he was a devoted father. He gave everything to ensure the life and happiness of his children and grandchildren flourished. He was always available and ready to lend his heart to any effort that was requested, no matter how dangerous or painful it was. He carried the load for all our family, he internalized and consumed it so that his family could continue to move forward.
He is survived by his daughter; Angela (Bernatonis) Ferreira of West Warwick, Rhode Island, and his sons; Alex Bernatonis SMSgt, US Air Force, of Coventry, Rhode Island and Anthony Bernatonis of Great Falls as well as his companion of 13 years, Maggie Welzenback of Great Falls; grandchildren, Alex Jr., Evan, and McKayla Bernatonis, and Devin and Brenden Ferreira; and sisters, Gloria Bertonis of Levittown, Pennsylvania and Carol (Bernatonis) Miranda of San Jose, California. Bernard was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Catherine; and brother, Donald Bernatonis.
Throughout his final planning, he was still considering his family. When he planned his death, he considered travel for his guests. So, three services were arranged.
On October 21st, 2022, a small service for his children and life partner was held at the O’Connor Funeral Home, Great Falls MT.
On November 5th, 2022, Wake services were held for his New England Friends and Family, at the Ionnotti Funeral Home, Maple root, Coventry RI.
Lastly, Bernard will be traveling to Pennsylvania for final services. The family will accept visitors at Dutcavich Funeral Home, 200 Sunbury Street, Minersville on Saturday, December 10, from 8:00 A.M. Visitation will end promptly at 9:15 A.M. when procession will form. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 A.M. in St. Matthew the Evangelist Church, 139 Spruce Street, Minersville. Interment with military honors will be in St. Francis of Assisi Cemetery, Branch Township.
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Born Sunday, March 1, 1931 in Walker Twp., Schuylkill Township, Donald was the son of the late Norman L., and Estella (Merkel) Heim. Donald was also predeceased by; his wife of 68 years, Virginia E. (Freeman) Heim on August 20, 2021; step mother, Marion (Nester) Henninger - Heim; sisters, Annabella Koch, and Darlene Stein; brother Harold Henninger.
Surviving are brothers, Jerry Heim, Richard Henninger, David Henninger and his wife Marlyn; godson, John Heim. Many nieces, nephews also survive Donald, while tending to his care.
Donald served honorably in the United States Army during the Korean War, and drove truck for a living. He and Virginia where longtime members of Kimmels Free Evangelical Church of Orwigsburg. Donald enjoyed tending to his home, and collecting antique vehicles.
Private arrangements entrusted to the Robert S. Nester Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc. of 2066 West Penn Pike New Ringgold, Pennsylvania 17960. (570) 386-5884
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Leona E. Ratomski, 90 of Shenandoah passed away on Sunday, November 27, 2022 at AuthoraCare Hospice House, Burlington, North Carolina.
Funeral services and interment will be announced at a later date by Walukiewicz-Oravitz Fell Funeral Home, 132 South Jardin Street, Shenandoah.
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Born in Wiconisco, October 31, 1947, a son of the late Lloyd Bordner and Alma Strohecker Keister.
Lloyd was retired from Harman Stove, Halifax.
Lloyd and Mary Alice could often be found out and about socializing with their many friends. He always looked forwards to the holidays, where he could be found dressed like Santa Clause or a leprechaun.
He was a member of the Tower City Loyal Order of Moose, Pine Grove H H & L Fire Company, Pine Grove Fish and Game, Pine Grove VFW, Union Fire Company, Bethel, and the Sons of the Fredericksburg American Legion. He was an avid dart player, where he played in the Upper Dauphin Dart League for over 40 years, still holding numerous records. He also enjoyed hunting.
In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by siblings, Cloyd, Ronald (Snook), Richard (Bud), and Kenneth (Tom) Keister, and Ernest Bordner.
Surviving are his wife of 39 years, Mary Alice Quinn Bordner; his children, Lloyd Bordner, Jr, Wiconisco, Dennis Bordner and his wife Michelle, Williamstown, Jason Bordner and his wife Shannon, Tower City, and Kristen Borwegen and her husband Andrew, Mechanicsburg; two sisters, Doris Hubler, Tremont and Sandra Bensinger, Lykens; a brother, Gary Keister, Pottsville; grandchildren Heather Werdt and her husband Cody, Hunter Bordner, Cameron, Alix, Samantha, Amanda, Andrew, Kathryn, Bethanee, Marie, and Grayson; great grandchildren, Maci, Nova, and Willow Werdt; numerous nieces and nephews.
A Celebration of Lloyd's Life will be held on Friday, December 2, 2022 at 2:00 pm from the Chapel of the Dimon Funeral Home, Inc., Tower City with Pastor Krista Keisling officiating. Visitation will be from 1-2 pm at the chapel. Following the services everyone is invited to the Pine Grove VFW for a luncheon and time of fellowship.
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She was born on Friday, September 30, 1949, in Pottsville, a daughter of the late Harold R Richard and the late Hazel W (Shade) Richard.
She was a 1967 graduate of Tri-Valley High School.
Donna had worked in area garment factories and then worked at AMP, Tower City, and retired from Tyco Lickdale. After retirement she worked part time at Knoebel's Grove Amusement Park.
She was a member of St. Andrew's United Methodist Church, Valley View.
Donna was a volunteer for years with the Hegins Area Ambulance Association and the former Valley View Fire Company. She was also a volunteer with the Valley View Park Association for several annual events.
Her husband Ronald H Bloch passed away in 2012.
She is survived by two sons, Rahn A Richards of Tremont and Jeremy D Richards of Hegins; six grandchildren; two sisters, Sally L Miller of Valley View and Carol Wilkes of Georgia; a brother, Russell H Richard of Valley View; and several nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be held at St. Andrew's United Methodist Church, Valley View, on Tuesday, December 6, 2022, at 11:00 am, with Rev. Curtis Zemencik officiating.
Visitation will be held from 10:00 am to 11:00 am on Tuesday at the church.
Burial will be in St. Andrew's Cemetery, Valley View.
Buffington-Reed Funeral Home, Inc., Valley View, is in charge of arrangements.
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Born in Pottsville, in 1935, she was the daughter of the late Frank and Gertrude Drent Quattrociocchi.
Catherine attended Pottsville Area School District. She was formerly a member of St. Patrick's Roman Catholic Church in Pottsville and she last worked for Cressona Knit.
Throughout her life Catherine was always willing to help others in need. She participated in the PTA when her children were small as well as helping in local elections. Catherine was always very family oriented and outgoing. She also enjoyed working on puzzles and reading in her free time.
Catherine met her husband James W. Schaeffer while roller skating at "The Ritz" many years ago.
In addition to her parents Catherine is preceded in death by her siblings, sisters, Stella Brown, Alice Borrell, Patsy Fessler, Esther Thomas, Lucy Hutchings, Betty Bonan and brothers, Frank, Pete, Johnny, and Louis Quattrociocchi.
In addition to her loving husband James, Catherine is survived by her daughter Cheryl Heffner wife of Leo, Sheree Minnich wife of Scott, and James W. Scheffer Jr. husband of Melanie. She is also survived by loving sister Dorothy Pauley along with grandchildren, Cody, Jesse, Samantha Schaeffer and Shane and Justin Minnich, and great grandchildren Chase, Victoria, Isabella, Matix, Dylan and Hudson.
A funeral service will be held on Friday at Grabowski Funeral Home, Schuylkill Haven at 11:00 A.M. A viewing will be held from 10:00 A.M. until the time of services. Interment will follow on the grounds of Schuylkill Memorial Park, Schuylkill Haven. In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made to the American Cancer Society, https://donate3.cancer.org/.
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Christina D. "Tina" Stephen, 73 of Pottsville, died Monday at Lehigh Valley Hospital-Cedar Crest, Allentown. In keeping with Tina's wishes there will be no services.
Arrangements are under the care of James E. Humphrey Funeral Home, Pottsville.
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The daughter of late Peter M. Cherapan and late Mary S. (Krolick) Cherapan, she was born in the former Ashland Hospital, the first born of their three children. Always a go getter, she graduated from North Schuylkill High School in 1967, before taking classes at the Ford School of Business.
In 1977, she became a mother to Ruth and Chester Martz and on January 3, 1987, she married the love of her life and soulmate, Charles W. Eisenhart. Tina held a variety of factory jobs as a secretary before joining Keystone Human Services as a support professional and eventually as supervisor. She resumed the support professional role after her retirement in 2015 still working two days a week with individuals with intellectual disabilities. Tina enjoyed a variety of things in life but especially music, tv series, animals, her faith, and word games such as scrabble.
Tina was preceded in death by her parents; grandparents; children, Ruthie and Chester; sister, Donna Cherapan-Stephenson; brother-in-law, William “Bill” Stephenson III as well as numerous beloved uncles, aunts, cousins and close friends.
She is survived by her loving husband Charles W. Eisenhart; granddaughter, Kassondra M. Martz her loving travel buddy and her partner Jocelyn “Bee” Ford; granddaughter, Dominique Dittman; grandson, Paul Dittman; daughter-in-law, Michelle Martz; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, great nieces, great nephews, and several great grandchildren as well as extended family and beloved friends.
Divine Liturgy will be held on Thursday, December 1, 2022 at 11:00 a.m. at SS Peter & Paul Ukrainian Catholic Church, Mount Carmel with the Very Rev. Archpriest Michael Hutsko, Pastor officiating. Interment will be private. A viewing will be held Thursday morning from 10 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. at the church. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to SS Peter & Paul Building Fund, 131 North Beech Street, Mt. Carmel or Mommy and Me Pet Rescue, 610 East Fifth Street, Mt. Carmel, PA 17851. Joseph J. Stutz, Inc. Funeral Home, 40 South Market St. Mt. Carmel, Joseph J. Stutz, III Supervisor has been entrusted with the arrangements.
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Marylou was born in Pottsville on August 2, 1961, the daughter of the late William and Ruth (Schoffstall) Beury.
She attended Minersville High School, and last worked for Tension Envelope, St. Clair. As a youngster she was a member of Zion Lutheran Church in Minersville, and then later attended The Salvation Army.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by two brothers, James and Robert Beury, a sister, Susan Kostinko, and two grandchildren, Ryan Joseph Julian and baby girl Fessler.
Marylou is survived by her husband, Richard E. Kull, along with daughters Jennifer Beury, Rina Sementilli, Angela Sementilli, Paula Sementilli, Pamela Sementilli and son Joshua Kull.
She is also survived by grandchildren, Nicole, Gianna, Joseph, Zaria, Jayden, Justin, Madison, Cailyn and Quinton. Great grandchildren, Trey, Sahira, TJ and Lukas, along with her best friend, Lois Kull.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend a funeral service on Saturday, December 3, 2022 at 11 AM at the Schlitzer Allen Pugh Funeral Home, West Market Street, Pottsville.
A viewing will be held from 9 AM until the time of the service.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Marylou's name are asked to be made to the Salvation Army, or to the Simon Kramer Institute.
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Kull-Heizenroth Funeral Home Inc, 901 Centre St, Ashland PA has been entrusted with arrangements.
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These obituaries are being brought to by Anthony Urban Law Offices. P.C.
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