Skook News Obituaries: April 8th, 2024
Obituaries published from the Schuylkill County area.
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surrounded by family and loved ones. She was 80 years old.
Born on June 15, 1943, in Mahanoy City, PA, Gayle’s life was a testament to love, kindness, and
unwavering devotion to her family, friends, beloved pets, and especially her granddaughters.
Her presence radiated warmth, generosity, and boundless compassion, touching the lives of all
who had the privilege of knowing her.
Gayle’s journey began in Mahanoy City, PA, where she completed her education at a trade
school after graduating from high school. She was the beloved wife of the late Steven E.
Hutnyan of Mahanoy City. She found joy in various roles, from her time as a secretary at
Mahanoy Area High School, waitress at a local restaurant, and her work with catering until her
retirement in 2009. Crocheting, crafting, and indulging in bingo trips to NY with her son Shane
and close girlfriends were her true passions. She took joy in attending craft shows alongside her
daughter-in-law, showcasing her many creations. She found solace in gardening, planting
vibrant flowers annually, and sharing the joys of canning and cooking with family. Gayle
cherished moments spent traveling to NJ and vacationing with loved ones, as well as attending
her granddaughters' various sporting and school events, cherishing every precious memory she
made with them.
unwavering devotion to her family, friends, beloved pets, and especially her granddaughters.
Her presence radiated warmth, generosity, and boundless compassion, touching the lives of all
who had the privilege of knowing her.
Gayle’s journey began in Mahanoy City, PA, where she completed her education at a trade
school after graduating from high school. She was the beloved wife of the late Steven E.
Hutnyan of Mahanoy City. She found joy in various roles, from her time as a secretary at
Mahanoy Area High School, waitress at a local restaurant, and her work with catering until her
retirement in 2009. Crocheting, crafting, and indulging in bingo trips to NY with her son Shane
and close girlfriends were her true passions. She took joy in attending craft shows alongside her
daughter-in-law, showcasing her many creations. She found solace in gardening, planting
vibrant flowers annually, and sharing the joys of canning and cooking with family. Gayle
cherished moments spent traveling to NJ and vacationing with loved ones, as well as attending
her granddaughters' various sporting and school events, cherishing every precious memory she
made with them.
Preceded in death by her husband, Steven Hutnyan, father-in-law Edward Puck, brothers Pete
Weber, Harry Weber, and sister Linda Hasara. Left to cherish her memory are her sons, Shane
and Steven Hutnyan, daughter-in-law Ashley Hutnyan, and her four adoring granddaughters,
Aubreana, Shayla, Payton, and Kinsley Hutnyan.
While no formal services are planned at this time, a memorial service will be arranged in the
coming months at St. Mary’s Byzantine Church in Mahanoy City, PA.
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Betty Jean Bablo, of Tamaqua, died Tuesday, April 2, 2024, in Coaldale. She was the wife of the late John Bablo who died in 1998.
Born in Tamaqua on November 19, 1941, Betty was the daughter of the late George and Gertrude (Lauchnor) Nunemacher and attended Tamaqua Area High School. She was employed as a trimmer by several local garment companies and was a member of the St. John Lutheran Church in Tamaqua.
She is survived by sons, Wayne Nunemacher and wife Lori of Grantsville, PA, Frank Leibensperger of Jonestown, PA, Michael Leibensperger and his wife Melissa of Port Carbon, Brian Leibensperger and his wife Laura of Tamaqua, and Kevin Leibensperger also of Tamaqua; eight grandchildren and many great grandchildren; brothers, Edward Nunemacher of Lansford, and Kenneth Nunemacher of Tamaqua; sisters, Dorothy Poorman of Livermore, CA, Marion Fritz of Pittsburgh, and Joyce Nunemacher of Andreas; numerous nieces and nephews.
Betty was predeceased by a sister, Beatrice Borascius, and brothers, Russell, Raymond, Paul, Charles, Robert, and George E. Jr. Nunemacher. Interment will be Monday, April 15, 2024, at 12:45 PM in Sky View Memorial Park, Tamaqua, with Rev. Dillon Epler officiating.
Her family would like to extend a thank you to Betty’s nurses' aides, Sharon and Jessica. Memorial donations can be made to Zizelmann-Gulla Funeral Home. Online condolences may be made at www.zgfuneralhome.com.
Arrangements are being handled by the Zizelmann-Gulla Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc., Tamaqua.
Charles J. “Pudge” Bowers, 72, of Pottsville, passed away on April 5, at his home.
Born in Pottsville, on February 19, 1952, he was the son Joan (Bercher) Bowers, Pottsville and the late Charles “Carty” Bowers.
He graduated from Pottsville Area High School. Pudge spent many years working for Quandel Concrete before retired for the Norwegian Township Street Department.
He loved to fix and fabricate items especially in his machine shop. Pudge was also a heavy equipment operator and could operate any type of machine, he was always willing to help on any kind of excavating or repair project.
In addition to his father, he was preceded in death by his loving wife, Catherine "Cathy" (Dodds) Bowers, brother, Scott, sister, Christine Bowers and Debbie Bowers.
In addition to his loving mother, Joan, surviving are a loving daughter Joanie Williams, and her husband, David, Pottsville, loving granddaughter, Brittany, five sisters, Cindy Luckenbill, Kathleen Williams, Marilyn Auman, Nancy Riegle, Lisa Fredrick, a brother, Michael, all of Pottsville, several nieces and nephews.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 12:00 PM Saturday, April 13th, with the Reverend Kevin Bobbin, of St. John the Baptist Church, officiating at Schlitzer Allen Pugh Funeral Home, 515 W. Market Street, Pottsville.
Friends and family are invited to pay their respects from 10:00 AM till the time of the service at the funeral home.
Donald Strenkoski, 65, of West West Terrace, Branch Township, passed away peacefully on Saturday, April 6, 2024 at Pottsville Rehabilitation and Nursing Center.
Born in Pottsville on January 31, 1959 and raised in Llewellyn, Branch Township, he was a son of the late Alex and Stella Leah Beach Strenkoski. He was a 1977 graduate of Minersville Area High School. He worked for Post Precision Castings, Strausstown.
Donald lived a life filled with passion, joy, and unwavering devotion to his interests.
From a young age, Donald developed a deep love for cars and motorsports. Whether he was behind the wheel of his Chevelles or riding his quads, his enthusiasm for the world of motorsports was infectious. His knowledge and appreciation for all things automotive were unmatched.
In addition to his love for cars, Donald had a talent for shooting billiards. Many fond memories were made as he spent countless hours with friends and family, enjoying friendly competition and camaraderie around the pool table. His skill and precision were admired by all who had the pleasure of playing alongside him.
A die-hard fan of Notre Dame football, Donald never missed a game. His unwavering support for the Fighting Irish was a testament to his loyalty and dedication. Whether celebrating victories or enduring defeats, he remained a devoted fan through and through.
Beyond his hobbies and interests, Donald touched the lives of many with his warm smile and genuine compassion. His love for life and zest for adventure were contagious, and he leaves behind a legacy of cherished memories and lasting friendships.
He was a member of Friedens Lutheran Church, Stein’s Mill.
The last of his immediate family, he was preceded in death by three siblings, Patricia Wetzel, Paul Strenkoski and Mark Strenkoski.
Don is survived by two nephews, Dane Wetzel and his wife, Carol, Ringtown, and Keith Wetzel, Fleetwood; two great-nephews, Carson and Landon Wetzel, both of Ringtown.
Services are private with interment in Friedens Lutheran Cemetery, Branch Township. The family prefers remembrances to the SPCA of the giver’s choice. Dutcavich Funeral Home, Minersville, is entrusted with arrangements.
Shirley Deeter, 88, of Hegins, passed away peacefully Sunday afternoon, April 7, 2024 surrounded by her family.
Born in Barry Township, June 8, 1935, a daughter of the late William and Verna Carl Lucas.
Shirley dedicated her life to being a wonderful, wife, mother, and grandmother. She had worked in the local garment factories, Tallman Farms, and Lee Bixler's Butcher Shop. She had also owned an ice cream shop in Joliett.
Shirley was a faithful member of the Jehovah's Witnesses, attending in Tremont and Pottsville. She enjoyed baking, cooking, and playing cards. Above all else her family was the center of her world. She will be remembered for her love, kindness, and generosity she showed to all she encountered in life.
In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her husband Elwood Deeter, Sr.; two sons, Allen and Elwood Deeter; a daughter, Tina Chescavage; eight sisters, Jean Kroh, Betsy Wolfgang, Linda Morgan, Grace Madenford, Marion Deeter, Pauline Carter, and Anna Mae and Verna Lucas; eight brothers, John, Harold, William, Sonny, Lewis, Henry, Joseph and Jerry Lucas.
Surviving are five children, Joanne Brown and her husband Ed, Pine Grove, Dennis Deeter, Hegins, Debra Dinger and her husband Stephen, Joliett, Gary Brill and his wife Debra, Joliett, and Vicki Witmer and her husband Ken, Hegins; a brother Robert Lucas, Joliett; four sisters, Cindy Schnoke, Janet Maidenford, and Carol Nelson all of Joliett, and Barbara Bassininski, Lincoln; twenty grandchildren; seventeen great grandchildren; twelve great great grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews.
A public viewing for family and friends will be held on Thursday evening from 6-7 pm in the Chapel of the Dimon Funeral Home, Inc., Tower City. Services will follow at 7 pm.
In lieu of flowers donations in Shirley's memory can be made to Advantage Hospice, 1502 Rt. 61, Highway S. Pottsville PA 17901.
Andrew Raddie, age 90, of Crownsville, MD passed away at his daughter’s home on Tuesday, October 6, 2020.
Andrew was born on November 29, 1929, in Shenandoah, PA a son of the late Andrew J. and Julia (Smetana) Raddie.
He proudly served in the United States Air Force for over 20 years – serving in both the Korean and Vietnam wars. After retiring as a Master Sargent from the Air Force, Andy worked in fleet management for both Smelkinson Foods and Waste Management.
Andy was a member of the American Legion for over 50 years and an active board member of American Legion Post 7, Crownsville, MD.
A loving and loyal husband, father, brother and friend and will be missed by all who knew him.
Andy is survived by his children, Andrew of Las Vegas, Beth Pena of Crownsville, stepchildren Gene Turner of Seaford, DE and Karen Turner of Snow Hill, NC as well as 9 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren.
Also surviving are his sisters, Jean Pryzbylkowski (Al) of Lancaster, PA and Marie Boehmer of Cinnaminson, NJ.
Andy was preceded in death by his first wife, Phyllis H. Mernagh (1975); his second wife, Nancy Walston Turner (2013) and his grandson, Justin P. Raddie (2011).
After his death in 2020, Andrew lost his son, Stephen M. Raddie and Stephen’s wife, De, and son-in-law, Martin C. Pena.
Relatives and friends are invited to a graveside service honoring both he and his son, Steve, at St. Michael’s Cemetery, Shenandoah Heights, PA on Thursday, April 18th, 2024 at 12:30 PM.
Local arrangements have been entrusted to the Stauffer-Breznik Funeral Home. www.ringtownfuneral.com
In his memory and to honor Andy, please remember to support our veterans.
Caroline C. McDowell, 70, of West Centre Street, Ashland, passed away, Monday, April 8, 2024, with her family by her side, at the Shenandoah Senior Living Community, Shenandoah.
Weber, Harry Weber, and sister Linda Hasara. Left to cherish her memory are her sons, Shane
and Steven Hutnyan, daughter-in-law Ashley Hutnyan, and her four adoring granddaughters,
Aubreana, Shayla, Payton, and Kinsley Hutnyan.
While no formal services are planned at this time, a memorial service will be arranged in the
coming months at St. Mary’s Byzantine Church in Mahanoy City, PA.
Louis D. Truskowsky Funeral Home & Crematory Inc. Mahanoy City is in charge of arrangements. Visit www.truskowskyfuneralhome.com to sign the guest book and send sympathy cards.
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Born in Tamaqua on November 19, 1941, Betty was the daughter of the late George and Gertrude (Lauchnor) Nunemacher and attended Tamaqua Area High School. She was employed as a trimmer by several local garment companies and was a member of the St. John Lutheran Church in Tamaqua.
She is survived by sons, Wayne Nunemacher and wife Lori of Grantsville, PA, Frank Leibensperger of Jonestown, PA, Michael Leibensperger and his wife Melissa of Port Carbon, Brian Leibensperger and his wife Laura of Tamaqua, and Kevin Leibensperger also of Tamaqua; eight grandchildren and many great grandchildren; brothers, Edward Nunemacher of Lansford, and Kenneth Nunemacher of Tamaqua; sisters, Dorothy Poorman of Livermore, CA, Marion Fritz of Pittsburgh, and Joyce Nunemacher of Andreas; numerous nieces and nephews.
Betty was predeceased by a sister, Beatrice Borascius, and brothers, Russell, Raymond, Paul, Charles, Robert, and George E. Jr. Nunemacher. Interment will be Monday, April 15, 2024, at 12:45 PM in Sky View Memorial Park, Tamaqua, with Rev. Dillon Epler officiating.
Her family would like to extend a thank you to Betty’s nurses' aides, Sharon and Jessica. Memorial donations can be made to Zizelmann-Gulla Funeral Home. Online condolences may be made at www.zgfuneralhome.com.
Arrangements are being handled by the Zizelmann-Gulla Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc., Tamaqua.
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Born in Pottsville, on February 19, 1952, he was the son Joan (Bercher) Bowers, Pottsville and the late Charles “Carty” Bowers.
He graduated from Pottsville Area High School. Pudge spent many years working for Quandel Concrete before retired for the Norwegian Township Street Department.
He loved to fix and fabricate items especially in his machine shop. Pudge was also a heavy equipment operator and could operate any type of machine, he was always willing to help on any kind of excavating or repair project.
In addition to his father, he was preceded in death by his loving wife, Catherine "Cathy" (Dodds) Bowers, brother, Scott, sister, Christine Bowers and Debbie Bowers.
In addition to his loving mother, Joan, surviving are a loving daughter Joanie Williams, and her husband, David, Pottsville, loving granddaughter, Brittany, five sisters, Cindy Luckenbill, Kathleen Williams, Marilyn Auman, Nancy Riegle, Lisa Fredrick, a brother, Michael, all of Pottsville, several nieces and nephews.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 12:00 PM Saturday, April 13th, with the Reverend Kevin Bobbin, of St. John the Baptist Church, officiating at Schlitzer Allen Pugh Funeral Home, 515 W. Market Street, Pottsville.
Friends and family are invited to pay their respects from 10:00 AM till the time of the service at the funeral home.
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Donald Strenkoski, 65, of West West Terrace, Branch Township, passed away peacefully on Saturday, April 6, 2024 at Pottsville Rehabilitation and Nursing Center.
Born in Pottsville on January 31, 1959 and raised in Llewellyn, Branch Township, he was a son of the late Alex and Stella Leah Beach Strenkoski. He was a 1977 graduate of Minersville Area High School. He worked for Post Precision Castings, Strausstown.
Donald lived a life filled with passion, joy, and unwavering devotion to his interests.
From a young age, Donald developed a deep love for cars and motorsports. Whether he was behind the wheel of his Chevelles or riding his quads, his enthusiasm for the world of motorsports was infectious. His knowledge and appreciation for all things automotive were unmatched.
In addition to his love for cars, Donald had a talent for shooting billiards. Many fond memories were made as he spent countless hours with friends and family, enjoying friendly competition and camaraderie around the pool table. His skill and precision were admired by all who had the pleasure of playing alongside him.
A die-hard fan of Notre Dame football, Donald never missed a game. His unwavering support for the Fighting Irish was a testament to his loyalty and dedication. Whether celebrating victories or enduring defeats, he remained a devoted fan through and through.
Beyond his hobbies and interests, Donald touched the lives of many with his warm smile and genuine compassion. His love for life and zest for adventure were contagious, and he leaves behind a legacy of cherished memories and lasting friendships.
He was a member of Friedens Lutheran Church, Stein’s Mill.
The last of his immediate family, he was preceded in death by three siblings, Patricia Wetzel, Paul Strenkoski and Mark Strenkoski.
Don is survived by two nephews, Dane Wetzel and his wife, Carol, Ringtown, and Keith Wetzel, Fleetwood; two great-nephews, Carson and Landon Wetzel, both of Ringtown.
Services are private with interment in Friedens Lutheran Cemetery, Branch Township. The family prefers remembrances to the SPCA of the giver’s choice. Dutcavich Funeral Home, Minersville, is entrusted with arrangements.
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Born in Barry Township, June 8, 1935, a daughter of the late William and Verna Carl Lucas.
Shirley dedicated her life to being a wonderful, wife, mother, and grandmother. She had worked in the local garment factories, Tallman Farms, and Lee Bixler's Butcher Shop. She had also owned an ice cream shop in Joliett.
Shirley was a faithful member of the Jehovah's Witnesses, attending in Tremont and Pottsville. She enjoyed baking, cooking, and playing cards. Above all else her family was the center of her world. She will be remembered for her love, kindness, and generosity she showed to all she encountered in life.
In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her husband Elwood Deeter, Sr.; two sons, Allen and Elwood Deeter; a daughter, Tina Chescavage; eight sisters, Jean Kroh, Betsy Wolfgang, Linda Morgan, Grace Madenford, Marion Deeter, Pauline Carter, and Anna Mae and Verna Lucas; eight brothers, John, Harold, William, Sonny, Lewis, Henry, Joseph and Jerry Lucas.
Surviving are five children, Joanne Brown and her husband Ed, Pine Grove, Dennis Deeter, Hegins, Debra Dinger and her husband Stephen, Joliett, Gary Brill and his wife Debra, Joliett, and Vicki Witmer and her husband Ken, Hegins; a brother Robert Lucas, Joliett; four sisters, Cindy Schnoke, Janet Maidenford, and Carol Nelson all of Joliett, and Barbara Bassininski, Lincoln; twenty grandchildren; seventeen great grandchildren; twelve great great grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews.
A public viewing for family and friends will be held on Thursday evening from 6-7 pm in the Chapel of the Dimon Funeral Home, Inc., Tower City. Services will follow at 7 pm.
In lieu of flowers donations in Shirley's memory can be made to Advantage Hospice, 1502 Rt. 61, Highway S. Pottsville PA 17901.
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Andrew was born on November 29, 1929, in Shenandoah, PA a son of the late Andrew J. and Julia (Smetana) Raddie.
He proudly served in the United States Air Force for over 20 years – serving in both the Korean and Vietnam wars. After retiring as a Master Sargent from the Air Force, Andy worked in fleet management for both Smelkinson Foods and Waste Management.
Andy was a member of the American Legion for over 50 years and an active board member of American Legion Post 7, Crownsville, MD.
A loving and loyal husband, father, brother and friend and will be missed by all who knew him.
Andy is survived by his children, Andrew of Las Vegas, Beth Pena of Crownsville, stepchildren Gene Turner of Seaford, DE and Karen Turner of Snow Hill, NC as well as 9 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren.
Also surviving are his sisters, Jean Pryzbylkowski (Al) of Lancaster, PA and Marie Boehmer of Cinnaminson, NJ.
Andy was preceded in death by his first wife, Phyllis H. Mernagh (1975); his second wife, Nancy Walston Turner (2013) and his grandson, Justin P. Raddie (2011).
After his death in 2020, Andrew lost his son, Stephen M. Raddie and Stephen’s wife, De, and son-in-law, Martin C. Pena.
Relatives and friends are invited to a graveside service honoring both he and his son, Steve, at St. Michael’s Cemetery, Shenandoah Heights, PA on Thursday, April 18th, 2024 at 12:30 PM.
Local arrangements have been entrusted to the Stauffer-Breznik Funeral Home. www.ringtownfuneral.com
In his memory and to honor Andy, please remember to support our veterans.
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Caroline C. McDowell, 70, of West Centre Street, Ashland, passed away, Monday, April 8, 2024, with her family by her side, at the Shenandoah Senior Living Community, Shenandoah.
The Richard W. Fritz Funeral Home, Ashland, is in charge of funeral arrangements.
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