Skook News Obituaries: March 3rd, 2025
Obituaries published from the Schuylkill County area.
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Edward G. Feaster, 72 of Frackville, PA., passed away on February 27, 2025, at his residence.Born in Petersburg, WV, he was the son of the late Carl L. and Katherine (Roubaugh) Feaster. Ed had worked for David W. Fannick of Frackville as an Electrician.
He is survived by his three sisters, Irene Leatherman, Elanor Berg, and Lois Moyers all of West Virginia. No services will be listed upon his wishes.
Online photos and memories can be shared with his family at www.markjhummelfuneralhome.com MARK J HUMMEL Funeral Home, Frackville, has charge of arrangements.
Sylvia B. Weikel, 92, of Cressona passed away on Sunday while at Golden Living Nursing Home in Pottsville.
Born in Schuylkill Haven on January 14, 1933, she was the daughter of the late Irvin and Sadie Moyer.
Sylvia attended Schuylkill Haven School throughout her life.
She was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Pottsville.
Sylvia worked for Alpha Mills as a factory worker for many years. She then moved on to work as a nurse’s aide at several nursing homes throughout the area.
Sylvia loved to listen to Jonny Cash and Buck Owens. She loved to collect angels and enjoyed butterflies.
In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband, James who passed away in 1999.
She is survived by her sons; James husband to Marie of Pottsville, Jeffrey husband to Jacqui of Pottsville and Todd of Cressona. She is also survived by her sister Dorothy Moyer of Schuylkill Haven along with two grandchildren, Desiree Weikel and Priscilla Weikel and two great grandchildren, Wesley and Benjamin Evans and several nieces and nephews.
A graveside service will be held on Thursday at 11:00 A.M. on the grounds of Schuylkill Memorial Park, Schuylkill Haven. Pastor Chris Rothharpt will officiate. Grabowski Funeral Home, Schuylkill Haven, is entrusted with services. Memories and condolences can be shared at www.grabowskifuneralhomes.com
Henry L. Lesher, Sr., SGT USAF (Ret), 78 of Pottsville, died peacefully Sunday surrounded by his family.
He was born February 12, 1947, in Pottsville a son of the late Kenneth and Jean Lesser Lesher
He was a 1967 graduate of Pottsville Area High School and a graduate of Schuylkill Business Institute with associate's degree in business administration and accounting.
Henry served in the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam War in Air Force Security retiring at the rank of Sergeant. Henry was also wounded in action during his service and was awarded the Purple Heart Medal.
Prior to retiring in 2008, Henry was Assistant Director of the Schuylkill County Veterans Affairs Office.
Henry was a member of Grace Evangelical Free Church, Orwigsburg, where he served on the Praise and Worship team and was church treasurer. Pulaski Lodge No. 216 F&AM where he was Past Master, Grand Lodge of PA serving as Past District Deputy Grand Master of District 11 and 35; Mountain City Royal Arch Chapter No. 196 where he was Past High Priest and Past Secretary; Regal Council No. 65 where he was past Thrice Illustrious Master, Past Recorder, Past Treasurer, and served of the Grand Council of PA, and was Awarded Cryptic Master of the Year of District 7 and Past Puissant District Deputy Grand Master. A member of Grand Commandery No. 41, where he was Past Commander, Illustrious Knight of the Triangle, and Knight Commander of the Temple; Grand Commandery of PA, where he was Past Grand Warder, Trustee of Grand Commandery; Tall Cedars of Lebanon, Schuylkill Forest No. 50, where he was Past Grand Tall Ceder; the Scottish Rite-Valley of Bloomsburg, where he was Past Thrice Potent, Past Commander-In-Chief, 33rd Degree, and Past Secretary. A member of the Pennsylvania York Rite College No. 11, where he was Past Governor, and the Order of the Purple Cross; Red Cross of Constantine St. James Conclave where he was Past Puissant Sovereign, Knight Commander of Constantine; United Grand Imperial Council of the Knights of the Red Cross of Constantine and Appendant Orders for the U.S. Mexico and Philippines where he was Intendant General PA Central. A member of York Cross of Honour Penn Priory No. 6 where he was Past Eminent Prior; Knight Masons of Erin Council No. 6 where he was Past Excellent Chief. Keystone Frei Mauer Mark Lodge No. 400 where he was Worshipful Master in 2014; Veritas Council No. 64 Allied Masonic Degrees, where he served as Past Sovereign Master; Royal Order of Scotland; PA Lodge of Research, F&AM where he was a charter member; Anthracite Joshua Association where he was Past President; Council of Anointed Kings; Seventh Division Past Commanders and Line Officers Association, where he was Past President; Royal Ark Mariner North Star Lodge No. 12 where he was Past Master. Henry was also a member of the Military Order of the Purple Heart Lehigh Valley Chapter 190, Allentown; the former Robert B. Woodbury American Legion Post No. 67 where he was Past District Service Officer, Pottsville; AMVETS Post 227; Disabled America Veterans Chapter 77; Schuylkill County Veterans of the Vietnam Post 29; Vietnam Security Police Association; Air Force Security Police Association; Independent Order of the Odd Fellows; Odd Fellows Cemetery Association where he was Secretary/Treasurer; Mineral Lodge No 285 Independent Order of the Odd Fellows, St. Clair, where he was Noble Grand and Secretary Treasurer; American Federation of State, County & Municipal Employees of Schuylkill County where he was Past President and Vice President; He was also a former member of the First United Methodist Church, Pottsville.
He was preceded in death by a sister, Susan Drobnick
Surviving are his wife of 55 years of marriage Kathleen Felker Lesher; 2 sons, Henry L. "Hank" Lesher, Jr. and his wife Becky, Lake Wynonah; Aaron Lesher and his wife Emily, Stonewall, LA; a daughter, Amy Gherghel and her husband Jason, Mount Verde, FL; 9 grandchildren, Bryce Lesher, Connor Gherghel, Kayla Gherghel, Elijah Lesher, Ezekial "Zeke" Lesher, Jovie Lesher, Jordan Lesher, Jett and Ensley Blakley; Nieces and nephews.
Funeral Services will be held 11AM Friday at the James E. Humphrey Funeral Home, Pottsville. Family and friends are invited to a viewing from 9AM until the time of services at the funeral home. Interment with Military Honors follow at Schuylkill Memorial Park, Schuylkill Haven. The family would prefer remembrance in the form of contributions in memory of Henry be made to Grace Evangelical Free Church, 10 Hollenbush Lane, Orwigsburg, PA 17961.
Thelma (Molly) BrensingerFebruary 28, 2025
My beautiful life on earth ended February 28, 2025, when angel wings fluttered into my room at Orwigsburg Nursing and Rehab Center and carried me home to the presence of Jesus. I lived a full long life, which began on June 21, 1929, in a small home in Auburn. I was the daughter of Roy and Iva Moyer, and had 5 siblings, all of whom have gone before me: Paul, Minerva, Ernest, Evelyn (Eppie) and Ina.
Robert B. "Dr. Bob" Clem, 89, of Pottsville, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 2, at Schuylkill Center, Pottsville.
Born in Schuylkill Haven on June 19, 1935, he was the son of the late Robert M. and Dorothy B. (Bartholomew) Clem.
Dr. Bob was a 1953 graduate of Schuylkill Haven High School and later earned a degree in Pharmacy from the Philadelphia College of Science. He dedicated much of his career to the helping people at the family business, Clem's Pharmacy, and continuing his work at RxD Pharmacy in the Pottsville Medical Arts Building for many years.
In his free time, he enjoyed golfing, especially at the Schuylkill Country Club, and traveling with his wife. He also found joy in home projects and gardening.
He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Joyce A. (Slifka) Clem; a daughter, Jeanann Shuman and her husband, Harold; two sons, James Pothering and his wife, Carla, and Joel Pothering and his wife, Christine; eight grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.
A private memorial service will be held at the convenience of the family. Arrangements have been entrusted to Schlitzer Allen Pugh Funeral Home, Pottsville.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Schuylkill HOPE Center for Victims of Domestic Violence, P.O. Box 96, Pottsville, PA 17901.
Mae M Hess, age 97, formerly of Lykens Twp., passed away Sunday, March 2, 2025 at Transitions Health Care Allens Cove, Duncannon.
She was born on Sunday, February 5, 1928, in Hegins, a daughter of the late Jacob G Masser and the late Lillie E (Strausser) Masser.
Mae was a member of St. Peter's "Hoffman's" United Church of Christ, Lykens.
She was also a member of the Millersburg Senior Center.
Mae enjoyed crafts, sewing, painting, gardening, and spending time with her family.
Her first husband, Orlando R Willier passed away in 1968. Her second husband, Guy T Hess passed away in 2001. She was also preceded in death by two brothers, Richard Masser and Mark Masser, and by two sisters, Annabelle Masser and Darlette Acker.
She is survived by three sons, James (Maureen) Willier, Steven (Robin) Willier, and Richard (Tina) Willier; seven daughters, Bonnie (Glen) Schadel, Linda (Dennis) Lenker, Christa (John) Eberle, Susan (John) King, Lana (Ty) Shoop, Dorreen (David) Snyder, and Betty (David) Paul; thirty-one grandchildren; fifty-eight great grandchildren; two great great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be held at St. Peter's "Hoffman's" United Church of Christ, 1289 S Crossroads Rd, Lykens, on Thursday, March 6, 2025, at 11:00 am, with Rev. Su Rider officiating.
Visitation will be held from 10:00 am to 11:00 am on Thursday at the church.
Burial will be in St. Peter's Cemetery, Lykens.
Memorial contributions can be made to St. Peter's "Hoffman's" UCC, 1289 S Crossroads Rd, Lykens PA 17048.
Buffington-Reed Funeral Home, Inc., Valley View, is in charge of arrangements.
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Sylvia B. Weikel, 92, of Cressona passed away on Sunday while at Golden Living Nursing Home in Pottsville.
Born in Schuylkill Haven on January 14, 1933, she was the daughter of the late Irvin and Sadie Moyer.
Sylvia attended Schuylkill Haven School throughout her life.
She was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Pottsville.
Sylvia worked for Alpha Mills as a factory worker for many years. She then moved on to work as a nurse’s aide at several nursing homes throughout the area.
Sylvia loved to listen to Jonny Cash and Buck Owens. She loved to collect angels and enjoyed butterflies.
In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband, James who passed away in 1999.
She is survived by her sons; James husband to Marie of Pottsville, Jeffrey husband to Jacqui of Pottsville and Todd of Cressona. She is also survived by her sister Dorothy Moyer of Schuylkill Haven along with two grandchildren, Desiree Weikel and Priscilla Weikel and two great grandchildren, Wesley and Benjamin Evans and several nieces and nephews.
A graveside service will be held on Thursday at 11:00 A.M. on the grounds of Schuylkill Memorial Park, Schuylkill Haven. Pastor Chris Rothharpt will officiate. Grabowski Funeral Home, Schuylkill Haven, is entrusted with services. Memories and condolences can be shared at www.grabowskifuneralhomes.com
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He was born February 12, 1947, in Pottsville a son of the late Kenneth and Jean Lesser Lesher
He was a 1967 graduate of Pottsville Area High School and a graduate of Schuylkill Business Institute with associate's degree in business administration and accounting.
Henry served in the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam War in Air Force Security retiring at the rank of Sergeant. Henry was also wounded in action during his service and was awarded the Purple Heart Medal.
Prior to retiring in 2008, Henry was Assistant Director of the Schuylkill County Veterans Affairs Office.
Henry was a member of Grace Evangelical Free Church, Orwigsburg, where he served on the Praise and Worship team and was church treasurer. Pulaski Lodge No. 216 F&AM where he was Past Master, Grand Lodge of PA serving as Past District Deputy Grand Master of District 11 and 35; Mountain City Royal Arch Chapter No. 196 where he was Past High Priest and Past Secretary; Regal Council No. 65 where he was past Thrice Illustrious Master, Past Recorder, Past Treasurer, and served of the Grand Council of PA, and was Awarded Cryptic Master of the Year of District 7 and Past Puissant District Deputy Grand Master. A member of Grand Commandery No. 41, where he was Past Commander, Illustrious Knight of the Triangle, and Knight Commander of the Temple; Grand Commandery of PA, where he was Past Grand Warder, Trustee of Grand Commandery; Tall Cedars of Lebanon, Schuylkill Forest No. 50, where he was Past Grand Tall Ceder; the Scottish Rite-Valley of Bloomsburg, where he was Past Thrice Potent, Past Commander-In-Chief, 33rd Degree, and Past Secretary. A member of the Pennsylvania York Rite College No. 11, where he was Past Governor, and the Order of the Purple Cross; Red Cross of Constantine St. James Conclave where he was Past Puissant Sovereign, Knight Commander of Constantine; United Grand Imperial Council of the Knights of the Red Cross of Constantine and Appendant Orders for the U.S. Mexico and Philippines where he was Intendant General PA Central. A member of York Cross of Honour Penn Priory No. 6 where he was Past Eminent Prior; Knight Masons of Erin Council No. 6 where he was Past Excellent Chief. Keystone Frei Mauer Mark Lodge No. 400 where he was Worshipful Master in 2014; Veritas Council No. 64 Allied Masonic Degrees, where he served as Past Sovereign Master; Royal Order of Scotland; PA Lodge of Research, F&AM where he was a charter member; Anthracite Joshua Association where he was Past President; Council of Anointed Kings; Seventh Division Past Commanders and Line Officers Association, where he was Past President; Royal Ark Mariner North Star Lodge No. 12 where he was Past Master. Henry was also a member of the Military Order of the Purple Heart Lehigh Valley Chapter 190, Allentown; the former Robert B. Woodbury American Legion Post No. 67 where he was Past District Service Officer, Pottsville; AMVETS Post 227; Disabled America Veterans Chapter 77; Schuylkill County Veterans of the Vietnam Post 29; Vietnam Security Police Association; Air Force Security Police Association; Independent Order of the Odd Fellows; Odd Fellows Cemetery Association where he was Secretary/Treasurer; Mineral Lodge No 285 Independent Order of the Odd Fellows, St. Clair, where he was Noble Grand and Secretary Treasurer; American Federation of State, County & Municipal Employees of Schuylkill County where he was Past President and Vice President; He was also a former member of the First United Methodist Church, Pottsville.
He was preceded in death by a sister, Susan Drobnick
Surviving are his wife of 55 years of marriage Kathleen Felker Lesher; 2 sons, Henry L. "Hank" Lesher, Jr. and his wife Becky, Lake Wynonah; Aaron Lesher and his wife Emily, Stonewall, LA; a daughter, Amy Gherghel and her husband Jason, Mount Verde, FL; 9 grandchildren, Bryce Lesher, Connor Gherghel, Kayla Gherghel, Elijah Lesher, Ezekial "Zeke" Lesher, Jovie Lesher, Jordan Lesher, Jett and Ensley Blakley; Nieces and nephews.
Funeral Services will be held 11AM Friday at the James E. Humphrey Funeral Home, Pottsville. Family and friends are invited to a viewing from 9AM until the time of services at the funeral home. Interment with Military Honors follow at Schuylkill Memorial Park, Schuylkill Haven. The family would prefer remembrance in the form of contributions in memory of Henry be made to Grace Evangelical Free Church, 10 Hollenbush Lane, Orwigsburg, PA 17961.
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Steven R. Beck, 59, of Schuylkill Haven, passed away Friday, February 28th, at home.
Born in Darby, PA on January 7, 1966, he was the son of the late Jean (Thompson) and Francis H. Beck.
Married 14 years, Steven was the husband of Sonia A. (Ong) Beck.
Steven was employed as a mechanic for IWCO Direct in Hamburg.
In addition to his wife, Steven is survived by two daughters, Krystal, wife of Timothy Boyer, of Schuylkill Haven, and Michelle, wife of Brian Butz, of Hamburg. He is also survived by two brothers, Michael & Daniel Beck, and four grandchildren.
In addition to his parents, Steven is preceded in death by a brother, Francis "Butch" Beck.
A Celebration of Life Funeral Service will be held at 12:00 PM on Thursday, March 6th at Geschwindt Stabingas Ebling Funeral Home, Inc in Schuylkill Haven. A viewing will be held from 11:00 AM until the beginning of the service.
Interment will be held privately at the family's convenience.
At the family's request, memorial donations may be forwarded to Geschwindt Stabingas Ebling Funeral Home Inc., 25 East Main St., Schuylkill Haven, PA 17972, to help defray the costs of the funeral.
Born in Darby, PA on January 7, 1966, he was the son of the late Jean (Thompson) and Francis H. Beck.
Married 14 years, Steven was the husband of Sonia A. (Ong) Beck.
Steven was employed as a mechanic for IWCO Direct in Hamburg.
In addition to his wife, Steven is survived by two daughters, Krystal, wife of Timothy Boyer, of Schuylkill Haven, and Michelle, wife of Brian Butz, of Hamburg. He is also survived by two brothers, Michael & Daniel Beck, and four grandchildren.
In addition to his parents, Steven is preceded in death by a brother, Francis "Butch" Beck.
A Celebration of Life Funeral Service will be held at 12:00 PM on Thursday, March 6th at Geschwindt Stabingas Ebling Funeral Home, Inc in Schuylkill Haven. A viewing will be held from 11:00 AM until the beginning of the service.
Interment will be held privately at the family's convenience.
At the family's request, memorial donations may be forwarded to Geschwindt Stabingas Ebling Funeral Home Inc., 25 East Main St., Schuylkill Haven, PA 17972, to help defray the costs of the funeral.
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My beautiful life on earth ended February 28, 2025, when angel wings fluttered into my room at Orwigsburg Nursing and Rehab Center and carried me home to the presence of Jesus. I lived a full long life, which began on June 21, 1929, in a small home in Auburn. I was the daughter of Roy and Iva Moyer, and had 5 siblings, all of whom have gone before me: Paul, Minerva, Ernest, Evelyn (Eppie) and Ina.
In my younger years I was a girl scout, worked as a “soda jerk” at Scrappy’s ice cream stand, and for one year of high school, was the leading scorer on my basketball team. In my later teen years, I worked at Gem Undergarment Company in Auburn an hour before school each day. I graduated from Auburn High School as salutatorian of my class!
But let me back up a few years and introduce you to someone. When I was just thirteen, a handsome man named Earl Brensinger winked at me! We eventually began dating, and at my eighteenth birthday party we announced our engagement. It was during this courtship that I was nicknamed “Molly” by Earl’s dad. The name stuck and I was affectionately called “Aunt Molly” by many until my last breath. Earl and I married on Easter Sunday, 1948, and we moved in with Earl’s family on the large Brensinger family farm in South Manheim Township. I was then working at Winn-Ann factory.
While Earl served our nation in the Korean War, I briefly moved to Sch. Haven. Upon his return, we moved back to the farm and got to work baling hay and raising thousands of ducks. And that’s not all we raised….we started our family! Our son Wayne was born in 1957 and our daughter Elaine in 1960. We had a millionaire family, and I thoroughly enjoyed being a mom! Sadly, our fairytale story ended too soon when Earl unexpectedly passed on Oct 29, 1968. So, now I was a single mom with the monumental task of caring for two children who relied solely on me. That was a huge responsibility! I became employed as a seamstress for Argo Corporation in Sch Haven and also as the Secretary for South Manheim Township and the Township’s Planning and Zoning Committee. With the help of God, a “whatever it takes” mentality, and a strong network of friends and family, I got through some difficult years; but my family thrived, and our children were able to complete college without me having to borrow even a cent! Seeing the “fruits of my labor” was rewarding beyond words. For me, it was just “what a mother does,” but according to my children, I was their hero.
When I got to retirement age, I was able to fully enjoy my role as a Grandma! Babysitting my grandchildren brought me most of life’s greatest joys. I have six incredible grandchildren and 14 adorable great-grandchildren (with two more on the way this spring). Let me introduce you to them: Wayne (married to Rachel) lives next to me in South Manheim Twp and has three beautiful daughters: Erin (married to Donnie Habe), Brandy (married to Kevin Bogacki), and Becky (married to Mike Colarik). Elaine (married to Allen Maneval) lives on the other side of me and also has three beautiful children: Kayla (married to Jonathon Hollahan), and twins Matthew and Danielle (married to Nicholas Cannella). I can honestly say that the greatest earthly memories I hold, outside of my years with Earl, come from moments with my grandchildren and great grandchildren. “Grandchildren are the crowning glory of the aged.” Proverbs 17:6a.
In addition to my immediate family, dozens of very special nieces & nephews, grandnieces & grandnephews, and yes, even great grandnieces & great grandnephews carry on behind me. Now you will understand why I feel so blessed! A large incredible family, all because a young man winked at me!
My hobbies have changed over the years as I enjoyed canning, cooking, doing embroidery work, viewing (and yes even attending) WWF matches, completing puzzles, collecting bells and ladybugs, watching game shows, and doing word search puzzles. You may remember some of my favorites: Music: Jim Nabors, Dino Kartsonakis, the Couriers; Color-blue; Flower-red rose; Pet-Heidi my St Bernard; Childhood activities-jump rope and hop scotch; Food-pot pie and hot dogs; Ice cream- pineapple and butter pecan; Fictional characters: Grover and Eeyore; Place to visit-Hawaii; Movie-Gone with the Wind; Book-The Bible; Food to cook-fried potatoes; TV: I faithfully watched Robert Schuller and never missed a Billy Graham Crusade, which explains my favorite hymn-“Just as I am.”
My hobbies have changed over the years as I enjoyed canning, cooking, doing embroidery work, viewing (and yes even attending) WWF matches, completing puzzles, collecting bells and ladybugs, watching game shows, and doing word search puzzles. You may remember some of my favorites: Music: Jim Nabors, Dino Kartsonakis, the Couriers; Color-blue; Flower-red rose; Pet-Heidi my St Bernard; Childhood activities-jump rope and hop scotch; Food-pot pie and hot dogs; Ice cream- pineapple and butter pecan; Fictional characters: Grover and Eeyore; Place to visit-Hawaii; Movie-Gone with the Wind; Book-The Bible; Food to cook-fried potatoes; TV: I faithfully watched Robert Schuller and never missed a Billy Graham Crusade, which explains my favorite hymn-“Just as I am.”
For those who know me well, there are no surprises there!
But I wonder what you will remember most about me. Will it be the bell collection exceeding 1,000 pieces, or the delectable huge home-cooked meals I would prepare to feed dozens of hunters, or maybe the unforgettable annual family egg hunts and fishing rodeos, or perhaps it will be my homemade pot pie, pineapple ice cream, or cut out cookies; maybe it is the family game nights or Hossie card marathons, or perhaps my continual requests for back scratches, my mumblings of “Whatever,” or…simply my contagious memorable laugh or heart-warming smile across the room.
But if you ask my family what they remember most, I know what they will say. It was the selfless unending sacrificial dedication to them which manifested itself in more ways than could ever be written here; it would be the determination, tenacity and will of a mother to carry on solo, the passion of a grandmother to do whatever it takes to help her children care for their children, and it would be a faith that demonstrated love as Jesus would. I would humbly reply that it was all only possible because I loved them so deeply; I was truly blessed until the very last day of breath.
So, let’s talk about those final years. As I aged, a debilitating disease known as Alzheimer’s sneaked into my life. I won’t lie; this took a toll on me. For the last few years, I have had 24-hour care but was blessed to remain in my home with a dedicated and loving team of family, caregivers and hospice. Two months ago, however, my health required a transfer to a local nursing facility. The disease progressed and I was ready to leave this earth. Some people may say Alzheimer’s “won,” or that I “lost the battle.”
Well, let me set them straight! Friends, I won this battle, not the disease, because I am now standing with Jesus in Heaven, for all eternity! That is a victory! That disease may have taken my body, but it could never take my eternity!
So, now that I am no longer with you, you may wish to remember me in some way. My family and I would be deeply honored. I respectfully ask that in lieu of flowers a donation be provided to one of the following: the church where I was married and remained a lifetime member- St Paul’s Lutheran Church, 1185 Summerhill Rd Auburn, PA 17922; or to Compassus Hospice, 500 Hawk Ridge Drive, Suite 4, Hamburg, PA 19526. Simply earmark donations in my memory. Or, you all know I love family farm! Feel free to reach out to family members and make arrangements to plant a tree in my memory on the farm; the H. L. Snyder Funeral Home can connect you with them.
But the best thing you can do is to spend eternity with me! All we really take to Heaven are the people we can point to Jesus. So, I would love if you’d honor me in the best way possible- accept Jesus as your Savior and then I will see you again and we can sit around and chat about the good ‘ol days together!
You can say a final earthly goodbye to me on Saturday March 8th. The H. L. Snyder Funeral Home, Inc., Pine Grove will be handing services at St Paul’s Lutheran Church, 1185 Summerhill Rd Auburn. My viewing will be from 9 to 11 AM, with a celebration of life service to follow at 11 AM; thereafter, my body will be placed in its final resting place, next to Earl, at Summer Hill cemetery. It will be a celebration, friends, so come prepared to share a wonderful memory so the room can be filled with smiles, love, and warmth rather than tears and sadness.
You can say a final earthly goodbye to me on Saturday March 8th. The H. L. Snyder Funeral Home, Inc., Pine Grove will be handing services at St Paul’s Lutheran Church, 1185 Summerhill Rd Auburn. My viewing will be from 9 to 11 AM, with a celebration of life service to follow at 11 AM; thereafter, my body will be placed in its final resting place, next to Earl, at Summer Hill cemetery. It will be a celebration, friends, so come prepared to share a wonderful memory so the room can be filled with smiles, love, and warmth rather than tears and sadness.
If you cannot attend, memories can be shared at www.hlsnyderfuneralhome.com.
Thank you for loving me for 95 years. See you in Heaven!
Paul Pecha, Jr., 89, of Tamaqua, died on Saturday, March 1, 2025, in Coaldale. He was the husband of Irene (Billman) Pecha with whom he celebrated 39 years of marriage this past October.
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Born in Nesquehoning, Paul was a son of the late Paul, Sr. and Olga (Hichok) Pecha. A 1953 graduate of Nesquehoning High School, he owned the former Carbon Barber Supply Co. and, later in life, sold insurance for American General Insurance and Prudential. Paul was an avid fisherman, gardener, and wood carver for which he was well known, but his halupki reached legendary status among his family and friends. Most of all, Paul was a loving husband to Irene and a faithful member of Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church in Tamaqua.
He is survived by his wife, Irene; two sons, Richard Pecha and his wife Abby of Nesquehoning and Mark Pecha and his wife Nicole of Tucson, Arizona; a daughter, Valerie Petrillo of Albuquerque, New Mexico; seven grandchildren; one great-grandchild on the way; and a large extended family.
He was predeceased by his son, Paul Allen Pecha, who died this past December.
A memorial service for Paul will be held at 10 AM on Saturday, March 8, 2025, at Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church, 101 North Greenwood Street, Tamaqua with The Rev. Cindy White officiating. Interment in Sky-View Memorial Park, Tamaqua will follow the services.
Call Saturday from 9-10 AM in the church. Memorial donations in Paul’s name may be made to Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church Endowment Fund, c/o Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church, 101 North Greenwood Street, Tamaqua, PA 18252.
Arrangements are being handled by the Zizelmann-Gulla Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc., Tamaqua
Debra A. Dross (Sajda), 63, of Ashland, passed away on Friday, February 28, 2025, at home.
Born in Shenandoah on August 15, 1961, she was the daughter of the late Walter and Helen (Ostrowsky) Sajda.
The surviving family includes her husband, Michael Dross; her 3 children- Nicole Wishnefsky (Michael) of Allentown, David Dross of Ringtown, and Kimberly Dross(Dylan) of Bethlehem; 2 brothers- Steven Sajda and Thomas Sajda (Lisa) both of Shenandoah; 2 sisters- Janis Brunette (John) of Wade, N.C. and Marie Fleming of Allentown; a granddaughter- Zarah; and nephews Scott, Alex, Sam, and Evan.
She was very passionate about her beloved rottweilers and rescue cats. She also had a wonderful sarcastic sense of humor that will be missed by all who loved her.
Private services will be held on Thursday, March 6th.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Debra’s memory to be made to the: Hillside SPCA, 51 SPCA Rd, Pottsville, PA 17901.
Gregory T. Glunz, 65, of Pine Grove, passed away Thursday, February 27th, at Reading Hospital-Tower Health, West Reading.
Born in Pottsville on December 4, 1959, he was a son of the late Edward Charles & Marie (Rooney) Glunz.
Married 42 years, he was the husband of Dana M. (Myers) Glunz.
Greg was a graduate of Nativity BVM and earned his associate’s degree from Williamsport Area Community College.
He was the owner and operator of Long Run Landscaping, Friedensburg. Greg had a love of plants and willingness to share his knowledge. Greg made major contributions to our local parks such as Garfield Square, The Hugs and Kisses Park in Pine Grove and the Yuengling Bicentennial Park in Pottsville.
In addition to his wife, Greg is also survived by his son, Henry Glunz, Pottsville, beloved dogs, Buster & Rocky, siblings: Geraldine Ann Schwartz (Ed), Pottsville, Edward G. Glunz (Natalie), Friedensburg, Marie T. Rehr (Thomas), Cypress, TX, Elizabeth "Libby" Horn (Harry), Ringtown, Frank Glunz (Elaine), Penn Run, PA, James Glunz (Connie), Orwigsburg, Bridget Glunz-Wenner, Millersburg, best friend, Tom Squierdo, 16 nieces & nephews, and 21 great-nieces & great-nephews.
He loved Sullivan County and 25 years of fishing in Canada and the friends he made there, especially Phil Leiby.
In addition to his parents, Greg is also preceded in death by his sister, Margaret Mary Glunz.
A Celebration of Life will be held from 4-10 PM on Saturday, April 19th at Sweet Arrow Lake Clubhouse.
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Born in Shenandoah on August 15, 1961, she was the daughter of the late Walter and Helen (Ostrowsky) Sajda.
The surviving family includes her husband, Michael Dross; her 3 children- Nicole Wishnefsky (Michael) of Allentown, David Dross of Ringtown, and Kimberly Dross(Dylan) of Bethlehem; 2 brothers- Steven Sajda and Thomas Sajda (Lisa) both of Shenandoah; 2 sisters- Janis Brunette (John) of Wade, N.C. and Marie Fleming of Allentown; a granddaughter- Zarah; and nephews Scott, Alex, Sam, and Evan.
She was very passionate about her beloved rottweilers and rescue cats. She also had a wonderful sarcastic sense of humor that will be missed by all who loved her.
Private services will be held on Thursday, March 6th.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Debra’s memory to be made to the: Hillside SPCA, 51 SPCA Rd, Pottsville, PA 17901.
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Born in Pottsville on December 4, 1959, he was a son of the late Edward Charles & Marie (Rooney) Glunz.
Married 42 years, he was the husband of Dana M. (Myers) Glunz.
Greg was a graduate of Nativity BVM and earned his associate’s degree from Williamsport Area Community College.
He was the owner and operator of Long Run Landscaping, Friedensburg. Greg had a love of plants and willingness to share his knowledge. Greg made major contributions to our local parks such as Garfield Square, The Hugs and Kisses Park in Pine Grove and the Yuengling Bicentennial Park in Pottsville.
In addition to his wife, Greg is also survived by his son, Henry Glunz, Pottsville, beloved dogs, Buster & Rocky, siblings: Geraldine Ann Schwartz (Ed), Pottsville, Edward G. Glunz (Natalie), Friedensburg, Marie T. Rehr (Thomas), Cypress, TX, Elizabeth "Libby" Horn (Harry), Ringtown, Frank Glunz (Elaine), Penn Run, PA, James Glunz (Connie), Orwigsburg, Bridget Glunz-Wenner, Millersburg, best friend, Tom Squierdo, 16 nieces & nephews, and 21 great-nieces & great-nephews.
He loved Sullivan County and 25 years of fishing in Canada and the friends he made there, especially Phil Leiby.
In addition to his parents, Greg is also preceded in death by his sister, Margaret Mary Glunz.
A Celebration of Life will be held from 4-10 PM on Saturday, April 19th at Sweet Arrow Lake Clubhouse.
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Born in Schuylkill Haven on June 19, 1935, he was the son of the late Robert M. and Dorothy B. (Bartholomew) Clem.
Dr. Bob was a 1953 graduate of Schuylkill Haven High School and later earned a degree in Pharmacy from the Philadelphia College of Science. He dedicated much of his career to the helping people at the family business, Clem's Pharmacy, and continuing his work at RxD Pharmacy in the Pottsville Medical Arts Building for many years.
In his free time, he enjoyed golfing, especially at the Schuylkill Country Club, and traveling with his wife. He also found joy in home projects and gardening.
He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Joyce A. (Slifka) Clem; a daughter, Jeanann Shuman and her husband, Harold; two sons, James Pothering and his wife, Carla, and Joel Pothering and his wife, Christine; eight grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.
A private memorial service will be held at the convenience of the family. Arrangements have been entrusted to Schlitzer Allen Pugh Funeral Home, Pottsville.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Schuylkill HOPE Center for Victims of Domestic Violence, P.O. Box 96, Pottsville, PA 17901.
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She was born on Sunday, February 5, 1928, in Hegins, a daughter of the late Jacob G Masser and the late Lillie E (Strausser) Masser.
Mae was a member of St. Peter's "Hoffman's" United Church of Christ, Lykens.
She was also a member of the Millersburg Senior Center.
Mae enjoyed crafts, sewing, painting, gardening, and spending time with her family.
Her first husband, Orlando R Willier passed away in 1968. Her second husband, Guy T Hess passed away in 2001. She was also preceded in death by two brothers, Richard Masser and Mark Masser, and by two sisters, Annabelle Masser and Darlette Acker.
She is survived by three sons, James (Maureen) Willier, Steven (Robin) Willier, and Richard (Tina) Willier; seven daughters, Bonnie (Glen) Schadel, Linda (Dennis) Lenker, Christa (John) Eberle, Susan (John) King, Lana (Ty) Shoop, Dorreen (David) Snyder, and Betty (David) Paul; thirty-one grandchildren; fifty-eight great grandchildren; two great great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be held at St. Peter's "Hoffman's" United Church of Christ, 1289 S Crossroads Rd, Lykens, on Thursday, March 6, 2025, at 11:00 am, with Rev. Su Rider officiating.
Visitation will be held from 10:00 am to 11:00 am on Thursday at the church.
Burial will be in St. Peter's Cemetery, Lykens.
Memorial contributions can be made to St. Peter's "Hoffman's" UCC, 1289 S Crossroads Rd, Lykens PA 17048.
Buffington-Reed Funeral Home, Inc., Valley View, is in charge of arrangements.
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These obituaries are being brought to by Mark J. Hummel Funeral Home, Frackville