Friday, January 17, 2025

Schuylkill County Obituaries for January 17th, 2025

                                                                                                                                                                                                      

Skook News Obituaries: January 17th, 2025

Obituaries published from the Schuylkill County area. 

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Rose Matthews, 101, of Holly Ridge, NC and former Frackville resident passed away peacefully on Wednesday at her home in North Carolina with her family by her side.

Born in Frackville, she was a daughter of the late Elias and Elizabeth Haddad Nahas.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband Vincent Matthews and her siblings: Marie Hayek, Dorothy Rader, Jim Nahas, Sara Welikonich, Joan Griffin and Adele Matern.

Rose is survived by her two daughters; Rosemary Matthews and Donna Hughes both of Holly Ridge, NC; her brother Robert Nahas, NY; her sister Helene Nahas, Frackville; her grandchildren; Michael ( Alexis ) Hughes and Ryan ( Emily ) Hughes; her great-grandchildren: Holden, Oscar and Rory.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, January 23rd at 10 a.m., in St. Joseph the Worker Parish, St. Ann’s Catholic Church, 49 N. Line Street, Frackville, with Rev. Robert George as the celebrant. Interment will be in St. Joseph’s Cemetery, Englewood, Frackville. A viewing will be held in the church on Thursday morning from 9 a.m. until time of Mass.

Sign the guest book, leave personal condolences and for further information please visit www.thomasmsullivanfuneralhome.com

Thomas M. Sullivan Funeral Home, Frackville, is in charge of arrangements.

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Terry L. Geist
, 69, of Ashland, passed away peacefully on Tuesday at Lehigh Valley Hospital Cedar Crest with her family at her side.

Born in Ashland, she was a daughter of the late Ronald and Fae (Hubler) Geist.

She was a 1973 graduate of North Schuylkill High School and worked in the medical field.

Terry enjoyed spending time with her nieces and nephews who affectionately called her “MiMi.” She also enjoyed shopping with her cousins, going out to dinner, and celebrating the holidays, especially Thanksgiving and Christmas.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother Gary Geist; and her fiancé, Anthony "Babe" Shalamanda.

Terry is survived by her five brothers; Ronald (Patty) Geist, Paxinos; Scott (Jody) Geist, Zion Grove; Todd (Ruth) Geist, Ashland; Rick (Rhonda) Geist, Shenandoah Heights and Glenn Geist, Ashland; also by numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.

Funeral services for Terry will be held on Wednesday, January 22nd at 11 a.m., from the Thomas M. Sullivan Funeral Home, Girardville, with Pastor Paul Eby officiating. Interment will be in Jacobs Cemetery, Pitman. A viewing will be held at the funeral home on Wednesday morning from 9 a.m. until time of service.

Sign the guest book, leave personal condolences and for further information please visit www.thomasmsullivanfuneralhome.com

Thomas M. Sullivan Funeral Home, Girardville, is in charge of arrangements.

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Thomas M. "Tom" Deffley
, age 74, of Barnesville passed away Wednesday at Rosewood Rehabilitation and Nursing Center in Schuylkill Haven. 

Born in Jacksons patch he was the son of the late Thomas and Anne (Heiler) Deffley. He was a 1968 graduate of Mahanoy Area High School and attended the Williamson College of the Trades in Media PA. He was co founder and co owner for 30 years of Southern Technologies in Florida. He was of the Catholic faith. 

He is survived by his wife Janet A. (Carr) Deffley, a daughter Lynn Gantz and her husband Paul of Pine Grove, 2 sons Bryan and his wife Karen of Breinigsville and Sean and his fiancĂ©' Andrea Fellows of Lancaster, 2 brothers Phil and his wife Gretchen of Gettysburg, Brian and his wife Lorrie of Zion Grove, a sister Anne Locher and her husband Scott of Patriotic Hill, 2 grandchildren Joshua and Autumn Gantz and nieces and nephews. 

Relatives and friends are invited to his funeral on Tuesday morning at 11 AM from David D. Jarrett Funeral Home of Mahanoy City. The Rev. Kevin P. Gallagher will officiate. 

Interment will follow in St. Canicus Cemetery in Mahanoy Township. 

Friends may call at the funeral home on Tuesday morning beginning at 9 AM until time of service. 

Contributions in his name to the Alzheimer's Association would be appreciated by the family and will be accepted at the visitation.

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Geraldine D. “Tootsie” Pauly
, 90, of Branchdale passed away Tuesday December 24, 2024 at Rosewood Nursing & Rehab, Schuylkill Haven.

Born in Black Diamond she was a daughter of the late John and Stella (Essler) Smith.

She was preceded in death by her husband Nelson Pauly in 2020. 4 Sons Richard Pauly, Francis Pauly, Edwin Pauly and Edward Pauly; a daughter Christine Neiswender; Granddaughter Kira Smith Pauly; 7 sisters Mary Hill; Mildred Hewes; Verna Botek; Alma Mishler; Rita Parobek, Emma Smith and Emily Smith; 2 Brothers John Smith and Clarence Smith.

She is survived by 4 sons Gregory Pauly of Branchdale; Frederick Pauly of Minersville; Christopher Pauly of Branchdale; Phillip Pauly of Branchdale; a daughter Marie Weikel and her husband James of Pottsville; Eloise Pauly, Minersville, 1 Sister Kathryn Dankulich of Pottsville; 12 Grandchildren, 7 Great Grandchildren Nieces & Nephews.

Geraldine’s family would like to extend their deep appreciation to the staff of Rosewood Nursing Home for their years of care to Geraldine

Graveside Services will be held at 1:00PM Monday January 27, 2025 at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery, Annville. Dutcavich Funeral Home, Minersville is in charge of arrangements.

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Clare J. Oliver
, 65, of Frackville, Pa, passed away unexpectedly on January 12th, 2025, at his home.

Born in Shenandoah, Pa, Clare was the son of the late Clare Oliver Sr. and Elizabeth (Gallagher) Oliver. He was a graduate of IU29 and a former worker at the Shenandoah Rag Company, where he served as a laborer. Clare was known for his unwavering work ethic and dedication to his community.

Clare was a proud member of the Frackville Sons of the American Legion, Post 398, where he held the position of Squadron Commander, and served as a bartender. He took great pride in assisting with legion events such as weddings and banquets, and he found a sense of family among his fellow members, who always treated him with kindness and respect. Clare’s generosity and holiday spirit shone brightly in his annual role as Santa Claus for the children at the Frackville American Legion, a tradition he cherished for over 20 years.

A devoted fan of the Eagles, Phillies, and Notre Dame football, Clare never missed a game. He also loved a good home-cooked meal, especially those prepared by his sister Annie.

Clare was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Bonnie (Jenkins) Oliver, who passed away in November of 1994. He was also preceded by siblings- Pamela Swirsky, Judy Swirsky, Gloria Swirsky, Kathleen Swirsky, and Thomas Oliver.

He is survived by his six siblings- Marlene Rudisill, wife of John, of Shenandoah; Anne Marie Swirsky of Shenandoah; Joseph Swirsky of Shenandoah; Mary Price, wife of Robert, of Pottsville; Diane Zimmerman of Ashland; and Christine Oliver of Frackville. Clare is also remembered fondly by numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family.

Graveside services will be held on Friday, January 24th at 10:30am in the Odd Fellows Cemetery in Frackville, Pa.

Clare will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. His warmth, generosity, and dedication to his community will leave a lasting legacy.

The Oravitz Home for Funerals Inc, Shenandoah are entrusted will the arrangements.

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Joseph Rodnick, Jr.
, 82, of MarLin, passed away Wednesday, January 15th, at his home. 

Joseph was born in Minersville, Pa. on August 19, 1942, a son of the late Julia (Worchick) and Joseph Rodnick, Sr. He was the widower of Dawn (Shirey) Rodnick. He was a member of St. Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Church, Minersville. He along with his son Joe owned and operated Rodnick's Discount Groceries. 

In addition to his parents, and his wife, Dawn, he was preceded in death by Sisters; Catherine Strenkoski, Josephine "Tootsie" Brozana, Rose Spancake, and Julia Silfies. 

Joe is survived by two sons, Joseph Rodnick III and Bert Rodnick. Joe is also survived by a sister, Mary Rodnick. A grandson Devin, and his pride and joy, his granddaughter, Joie Rodnick. Nieces and nephews. Also surviving are his best friend, & partner in crime, Joe Sborz, as well as Roxy, his beloved rescue dog. 

Joe was an avid fan of the Philadelphia Phillies. Known for operating his "side hustle" out of the garage; selling flowers, tools, and other oddities, drinking coffee and interacting with any and most who stopped by. He enjoyed making everyone smile every day, whether with one of his jokes or tricks… whether it ruffled your feathers or not. 

Interment at St. Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Cemetery. Complete arrangements shall be announced a future date. 

Mahal-Ritzel Funeral Home Inc., Minersville entrusted with the arrangements.

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Allen D. Kramer
, 80, of Mountain Rd., Pine Grove, passed away on Wednesday, January 15, 2025 in the Tremont Health & Rehab Center.

Born on July 17, 1944 in Pine Grove, he was a son of the late William and Flora Aungst Kramer.

He was an Army Veteran having served during the Vietman War.

Allen was a truck driver.

He was a member of St. Peter's Lutheran Church, Pine Grove, the Pine Grove VFW Post 3432, and the Pine Grove American Legion Post 374. He was a member and Fire Police Captain for the H. H. & L. Fire Co. #1, Pine Grove and the Suedberg Fire Company. He served over 20 years as president of the Schuylkill County Fire Police Association.

Besides spending time with his family, Allen enjoyed fishing, camping, and hanging out with his dog Lucky.

Preceding him in death was a son, William A. Kramer, and a granddaughter, Abby Lynn Kramer.

Surviving are his wife of 52 years, Shirley A. Gassert Kramer; a son, Robert Sr. and wife Iesha Kramer of Port Carbon; 8 grandchildren, Andrew and wife Chelsea Schwartz of Charleston, S.C., Ellen Vega of Port Carbon, Robert Jr. and wife Andrea Kramer of Shoemakersville, Rebekkah and husband Logan Wiederhold of Auburn, Stefanie and husband Chris Keefer of Tremont, Brittany Kramer of Good Spring, Billy and wife Lauren Kramer of Good Spring; 8 great grandchildren, Gabby, Brandon, Louie, Evie, Freddie, Wyatt, Brailyn and Levi; a brother Alvin Kramer of Cressona; a sister, Ruthann Kramer; nieces and nephews.

All Services will be held at the convenience of the family. Interment will be in the Indiantown Gap National Cemetery, Annville.

In lieu of flowers, the family would prefer contributions be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, www.woundedwarriorproject.org.

The H. L. Snyder Funeral Home, Inc., is in charge of arrangements.

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J. Robert "Babber" Dreisbach
, 88, of Pine Grove, passed away on Thursday, January 16, 2025, in Lehigh Valley Hospital, Allentown.

Born on March 1, 1936, in Pine Grove, he was a son of the late Robert and Marion Gibson Dreisbach

Babber was a 1954 graduate of Pine Grove High School where he played baseball and competed in his true passion sport, basketball. He continued to play men's softball throughout his adulthood. In his younger years, he was a member of the Boy Scouts and belonged to the Archery Club, going on to win the Eastern Regional State Junior Championship in 1940.

He was a Navy Veteran having served on the U.S.S. Calcaterra.

Babber was a machine operator for Exxon Chemical Company in Marlin, PA. He retired in 1998 after 36 years of employment.

He was a member of the Pine Grove Gridiron Club, was an avid Pine Grove Area Sports fan. You could always find him in the stands watching a Pine Grove Area sporting event. He had a true passion for collecting Pine Grove sports articles, data, and stats on the sports teams, players, and coaches.

Babber held pride in being a volunteer blood donor for the American Red Cross and was honored in 1994 after donating 8 gallons and continued to donate for many years after.

He was also a member of the Disabled American Veteran Commanders Club for many years.

Preceding him in death were a grandson Jesse Dreisbach and a brother, Theodore E. Dreisbach.

Surviving are two daughters, Kimberly and husband Mike Stoppi of Minersville, April and husband Lane Dissinger of Pine Grove; two sons, Todd Dreisbach of Jonestown, Drew and wife Renee Dreisbach of Jonestown; 10 grandchildren; 15 great grandchildren; nieces and nephews.

Funeral Services will be held on Wednesday, January 22, 2025 at 11:30 A.M. at the H. L. Snyder Funeral Home, Inc., Pine Grove with SALM John Ziegler officiating. There will be a visitation on Wednesday, January 22, 2025 from 10:00 A.M. until 11:30 A.M. at the Funeral Home. Interment will follow in St. John's Lutheran Cemetery, Pine Grove.

In lieu of flowers, the family would prefer contributions be made to the Pine Grove Area Educational Foundation, P. O. Box 98, Pine Grove, PA 17963.

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Robert W. Miller, IV
, 18, of Pine Grove, passed away tragically Thursday night, January 16, 2025, from injuries sustained in an automobile accident on Sweet Arrow Lake Road, Pine Grove.

Born on Wednesday, September 20, 2006, in Pottsville, the beloved son of Robert W. III and Amanda S. Maher Miller, with whom he resided with in Pine Grove.

Affectionately known as "Little Robert", he was currently a Junior at Pine Grove Area School District. He enjoyed the game of football and played for the Little Cardinals Football Team for eight years.

He loved his job at James C. Cook and Son, Inc., Schuylkill Haven, where he worked as a mason.

Little Robert was your typical teenager and could often be found hanging out with his friends, riding his dirt bike, and above all else fishing. Known for his kind heart and bright spirit, he will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. He was always there to help anyone in need and kept his family laughing. His memory will live on through the stories shared and the love he brought to those around him.

Surviving in addition to his parents are a sister, Kyra Troutman, Hegins; a brother, Tyler Neidlinger and his wife Mel, Tremont; his grandparents, Donna Miller, Joliett, Robert "Spivey" and Robin Miller, Pine Grove, Dave and Cheryl Fetterhoff, Hegins; great grandfather, Ernest Rehrer, Pine Grove; aunts, uncles, numerous cousins including, Jason and Chloe Wolfe whom he treated like a brother and sister.

Funeral Services will be held on Wednesday, January 22, 2025 at 11:00 am from St. Paul's United Methodist Church, Pine Grove with Pastor Dave Boltzer officiating. Viewing will be from 9:30-11 at the church.

Memorial donations in his memory can be made to the Dimon Funeral Home, 644 E. Grand Avenue, Tower City, PA 17980 to help with expenses.

The Dimon Funeral Home & Cremation Services Inc., Tower City is honored to serve the Miller family.

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Jetta Lou Rice
, 94, of Hometown, died on Thursday, January 16, 2025, at her residence. She was the wife of Jack Rice to whom she was married for 54 years at the time of his death in 2009. 

Born in Girardville on September 24, 1930, Jetta Lou was a daughter of David E. and Marion (Houser) Powell. A 1948 graduate of Delano High School, she previously worked for the Beacon Diner in Hometown, the Atlas Powder Company in Reynolds, and Newberry’s Department Store in Tamaqua before becoming a homemaker and raising her family. Jetta Lou was a member of St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tamaqua. She was a loving mother, was fond of gardening, enjoyed camping, and was always eager to help no matter the task at hand. 

Jetta Lou is survived by a son, Jack Rice and his wife Joanna of Hometown; a daughter, Marion Svelling of Maryland; two grandsons, John Hurso of Lancaster, and Matthew McFarland of Lehighton; four granddaughters, Alex Svelling of Maryland, Jessica Zeigler and her husband Nate of Andreas, Jill Sipko and her husband Brian of Hometown, and Katelyn Fronheiser and her husband Willie of Nesquehoning; eleven great grandchildren, Emma Sipko, Asa Sipko, Boe Sipko, Willow Zeigler, Marli Zeigler, Lacey Fronheiser, Jacob Fronheiser, Evan Fronheiser, Alex Fronheiser, Liam McFarland, and Alaina McFarland; and several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by three sisters, Betty Shellhammer, Winifred Carpenter, and Hazel Gibeser. 

Services will be held at 10 AM on Tuesday, January 21, 2025, at Zizelmann-Gulla Funeral Home, 500 East Broad Street, Tamaqua with The Rev. Dillon Epler officiating. 

Interment in Sky-View Memorial Park, Tamaqua will follow. Family and friends may call on Tuesday from 9 to10 AM at the funeral home. 

Memorial donations in Jetta Lou’s name may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, 57 North Franklin Street, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18701 or at alz.org. 

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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These obituaries are being brought to by Schuylkill Elder Abuse Prevention Alliance