Obituaries:
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Francis T. Brown
April 19, 2024 |
Francis (Frank) T. Brown of Saint Petersburg Florida and formerly of Roaring Brook Township died Friday at Bay Pines VA Health Care System, Florida. He was preceded in death by his wife Marie Giannetta Brown who died November 27, 2009. Born in Scranton, he was the son of the late James F. and Helen Doherty Brown, Sr. He was a veteran of the United States Navy SeaBees, retiring after 30 years of service. Prior to retirement he was a general contractor working in the construction industry. Frank was involved with scouting (Cub Pack 126 and Troop 132) for 50 years. He and his wife Marie were also involved with St. Joseph’s Center in Scranton, fostering 34 newborn babies.
Surviving are a daughter Alicia and husband Sean Insley of Roaring Brook Twp, son Frank A. and wife Valarie Brown of Saint Petersburg, Florida, four brothers; Robert and wife Jenny Brown of New Freedom, George and wife Terri Brown of Taylor, Patrick Brown of Scranton,Thomas Brown of New Mexico, and, a brother-in-law Bill and wife Helen Giannetta of Dunmore, three grandchildren Sean Jr, Vianne and Lilly, and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by two brothers Michael and James Brown.
The funeral will be Saturday with mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 A.M. at Saint Eulalia’s Church, Elmhurst. Interment Saint Catherine’s Cemetery, Moscow. All those attending the funeral are asked to proceed directly to the church on Saturday morning. Friends may call Friday from 5:00 P.M. to 7:00 P. M. at the Albert P. O’Donnell Funeral Home 2025 Green Ridge Street, Dunmore. Memorial contributions may be made to Saint Joseph’s Center 2010 Adams Avenue Scranton, PA 18509.
Arrangements Albert P. O’Donnell Funeral home 2025 Green Ridge Street, Dunmore.
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Peter McAliney
April 9, 2024 |
Peter McAliney. The death occurred at the Marywood Heights Skilled Nursing Facility on April 9, 2024, of Peter McAliney, age 94, of Scranton, formerly of Plains, PA, Brockton, MA and Bayside, NY. He was preceded in death by his wives, Zeta Marie (nee McKenna) and Evelyn Theresa (nee Farmer.)
Born in Brooklyn, New York to the late Patrick and Marie (Kilcoyne) McAliney, he was a graduate of Brooklyn Tech High School. He served in the US Airforce during the Korean War and afterwards joined the New York City Police Department. After his retirement from the Police Department he held several other jobs before finally retiring. Wherever he worked or went, he seemed to pick up new stories which family and friends always enjoyed hearing, as he had an Irish bard’s talent for relating those tales in amusing ways.
Peter had a deep and abiding Roman Catholic faith and he attended daily Mass for many years until his body would no longer allow him that grace. He was generous with his money and his advice. He was well loved by both by the McAliney family as well as his in-laws the McKenna family from Prince Edward Island, Canada. He enjoyed vacationing on Prince Edward Island and especially liked to attend the various Ceilidhs and music festivals featuring Irish and maritime music. Having been stationed in Hawaii and then Johnston Island during his time in the service, he developed a love of flying and travelling and later visited Australia, Europe and China, among other places.
Peter is survived by his sister Catherine Purzner and sister-in-law Irene McAliney; sons, Michael J. (Deborah DiGiosa), Myles P. (Maureen O’Brien), Kevin P. (Mary St. Leger) and Peter J. He is also survived by his grandchildren Meghan Marie McAliney (Caleb Washabaugh), Conor Paul McAliney (Ellen Fitzpatrick); Sierra Jessica McAliney; and J. Myles, Mary Zita, and Emmett Peter McAliney; Great-grandchildren Ian Patrick McAliney and Lillian Zeta Washabaugh.
Peter was preceded in death by his brothers and their spouses Myles (Shirley), Patrick, Thomas (Mary), James (Maureen and Judy), and John; his sisters and their spouses Mary (Edward) , Anne, Rose, and Patricia (Raymond); brother-in-law Charles Purzner; granddaughters Grace Ann and Maeve Ann McAliney; and Daughter-in-Law Kristan McAliney.
The family would like to thank the staffs of Marywood Heights, the Gardens of Greenridge and Hospice of the Sacred Heart for their supportive care of Peter in his last year.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 11:00 A.M. on Monday, April 15, 2024, at St. Paul’s Church, 1510 Penn Avenue, Scranton. Friends and family may pay their respects from 10:00 A.M until Mass at the Church. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Peter’s memory to Hospice of the Sacred Heart, St. Joseph’s Center (Scranton) or Regis High School (New York NY).
Arrangements by the Albert P. O’Donnell Funeral Home, 2025 Green Ridge Street, Dunmore.
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Ann Becchetti
April 5, 2024 |
Ann Becchetti, 93, of Dunmore died Friday at home surrounded by her family. She was preceded in death by her husband Frederick J. Becchetti who died November 2, 2015. They were married for sixty-five years. Born in Dunmore, she was the daughter of the late William and Rose Mecca Bonavoglia and was a graduate of Dunmore High School. Prior to her retirement she worked Scranton Garment, Ninos Sportswear and at the Holy Family Rectory for over twenty-five years. She was a member of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish, Dunmore.
Surviving are two sons Frederick and wife Lorraine Becchetti of Dunmore, Thomas and wife Theresa Becchetti of Dunmore, a sister Marie Donnini of Dunmore, eight grandchildren, sixteen great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by a daughter Maryann Becchetti , two brothers, Anthony and James Bonavoglia, and four sisters Lucille Tucker, Delores Bonavoglia, Angela Cipriano, and Peggy Symelesky.
The family would like to thank the Allied Hospices nurses for their great care for Ann.
A mass of Christian burial will be held on Wednesday at 9:30 A.M. at Saint Mary of Mount Carmel Church 322 Chestnut Street, Dunmore. Interment Dunmore Cemetery. There are no public calling hours.
Arrangements Albert P. O’Donnell Funeral Home 2025 Green Ridge Street Dunmore.
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Grace T. Harding
March 31, 2024 |
Grace T. Harding of Wexford, PA died Sunday, March 31, 2024, at AHN Hospital, Wexford, PA. Born in Scranton on March 14, 1941, she was the daughter of the late Thomas P. and Lucy H. Dempsey Harding. She was a graduate of South Scranton Catholic High School class of 1959 and Marywood College class of 1964. She was awarded two Master’s Degrees, the first from Cardinal Stritch University in 1977, and the second from Duquesne University in 1985. Prior to retirement, she was the Director of the Department for Persons with Disabilities in the Catholic Diocese of Pittsburgh. She was a member of the Guardian Angels, Pittsburgh.
After high school, Grace joined the Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary and became a primary school teacher. With time and experience she transitioned to secular life, while the professional focus of her life continued to be dedicated to the ministry of people with disabilities. In her work, she changed the way the Catholic Church thought about, and still thinks about, serving the catechetical needs of mentally challenged individuals. Her joy was witnessing Down Syndrome children receiving the Eucharist for the first time. The Joseph P. Kennedy Jr. foundation awarded Grace with the Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Memorial Award in 1996, after sponsoring her work. This partnership with Eunice Kennedy Shriver personally, and the Kennedy Foundation, resulted in a curriculum for parishes to establish their own programs for the mentally challenged. The curriculum was translated into multiple languages and distributed to Catholic Bishops in over thirty countries. In 2014, Grace received the Monsignor Cribbin Lifetime Service Award by the National Catholic Partnership on Disability.
Surviving are her closest friend and caregiver, Sister Margaret Hannan of Wexford, PA; four brothers, Thomas T. Harding (Carol) of Sun City Center, FL, Peter P. Harding (MaryAnn) of Mount Cobb, Dennis K. Harding (Vivian) of Mount Cobb, and Neil V. Harding (Karen) of Scranton; a brother-in-law, Albert Kramer of Nyack, NY; several nieces, nephews and cousins. She was preceded in death by a sister, Suzanne M. Kramer, and a sister-in-law, Judith A. Harding.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday at 10:00 AM at the Nativity of Our Lord Church, 633 Orchard Street, Scranton. Interment at Saint Catherine’s Cemetery, Moscow. Friends may call the church on Saturday from 9:00 AM until Mass time. Memorial contributions may be directed to Our Lady of Peace Residence of the Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, Marywood College, 1510 University Avenue, Scranton, PA 18509
Arrangements Albert P. O’Donnell Funeral Home, 2025 Green Ridge Street, Dunmore.
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Edward “Ned” Holmes
March 17, 2024 |
Edward “Ned” Holmes, 72, died on St. Patrick’s Day after a lengthy, hard-fought battle against cancer. His wife of 52 years, Maureen McCabe Holmes, was by his side every step of his fight. Born in Scranton on September 10, 1951, he was the son of the late Richard R. and Mary Lou Brundage Holmes. Ned developed lifelong friendships in Scranton’s public schools and graduated from Scranton Central in 1969.
He was a superb athlete who fondly recalled his youth playing everything from football to baseball to ping-pong at Weston Field. Ned excelled on the gridiron, diamond and wrestling mat at Central and starred in the 1969 Dream Game, quarterbacking the City to a win before more than 14,000 people. He attended Wilkes College and the University of Scranton, where he played football and baseball for the Colonels and club football for the Royals. Ned was proud of his time playing Legion baseball and as a member of the Scranton Red Sox squad of college-aged ballplayers. He also played for years in Scranton’s highly competitive fast-pitch softball leagues.
Ned worked in a variety of professions before he became the go-to phone call for well drillers in the northeast for decades at Portadrill, Ingersoll-Rand and Atlas Copco.
The outdoors, especially fishing and hunting, were more than hobbies for him, they were a passion. If Ned wasn’t trekking through the woods, you could find him taking a float on the Delaware River in a canoe or casting a line from a boat on a lake or pond. He was a proud member of the Park Place River Association and worked hard to make its annual fishing derby on the Lackawanna River in Scranton a success.
Ned enjoyed the “good stuff” in life with his family and friends, and was a devoted, adoring grandfather to his two grandsons. His role as their devoted “Grampa” filled his heart with joy.
Ned is also survived by his sons, Brian and wife Pamela, and step-grandchildren Daniela and William Angelozzi of Nazareth, PA; Patrick and fiancé, Will Dunn of Endicott, NY; Kevin and wife Amy, and grandsons Nate and Carter of Phoenixville, PA; sister Beth, Crystal Lake; sister-in-law Teresa and fiancé Rob Palonis, and niece Mary and nephew Matt of the Pittsburgh area; and many extended family members. He was preceded in death by brothers Dick, Tim, and John.
The funeral will be Saturday from the Albert P. O’Donnell Funeral Home 2025 Green Ridge Street , Dunmore with a mass of Christian Burial at 9:30 A.M. at Sant Paul’s Church 1510 Penn Avenue , Scranton. Interment Cathedral Cemetery. Friends may pay their respects on Friday, March 22, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Albert P. O’Donnell Funeral Home Those attending the service on Saturday are asked to go directly to the church.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Hospice Of The Sacred Heart, 30 E.D. Preate Drive, Suite 108, Moosic, PA 18507, or St. Francis of Assisi Kitchen, 500 Penn Ave, Scranton, PA 18503.
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Joshua Betti
March 12, 2024 |
Joshua Betti of Scranton died Tuesday March 12, 2024 at Regional Hospital of Scranton. Born in Scranton, he was the son of Joseph J. and Barbara Masylar Barrett and Jeff Betti. He was a graduate of Scranton High School , Keystone College, and Johnson College. Joshua was an electrician for Joseph Barrett electrical and worked as a self-employed electrician.
Also surviving are a sister April Zambetti and husband Anthony, and a niece Gabriella and nephew Domenico Zambetti. He was preceded in death by grandparents, John and Barbara Maslyar, Elaine and Frank Betti, and James and AnnaMae Barrett.
Joshua was a loving son, brother, uncle, and friend who will be sadly missed by all who knew him. His kind heart and gentle nature have left an indelible mark in his time here.
Friends may call Sunday from 1:00 P.M. to 4:00 P.M. at the Albert P. O’Donnell Funeral Home 2025 Green Ridge Street, Dunmore. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Griffin Pond Animal Shelter.
Arrangements Albert P. O’Donnell Funeral Home 2025 Green Ridge Street, Dunmore.
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Charles “Butch” Green
March 6, 2024 |
Charles “Butch” Green, 79, of Dunmore passed into another world with his heavenly father on March 6th, 2024 at the University of Pennsylvania Hospital. He is survived by his lifetime partner Terry Dolan Arnold. Born in Scranton, he was the son of the late Charles E. and Minnie Marie Jenkins Green. He was a veteran of the United States Army. Prior to retirement he worked for thirty-one years at McKinney Manufacturing Plant.
His passions included playing fast pitch softball and playing in the Tavern League and the Sunday Morning Modified League. He was an avid bowler playing in numerous leagues over the years. He loved golfing and was a “Muni Rat” and “Scat Boy” at Pine Hills Golf Club. He had an amazing seven holes-in-one in his golfing career. Bill W and Dr. Bob saved his life and became his best friends. Butch was a true honest good guy who would do anything for anyone. He always thought of the other person before himself.
Surviving are son Ricky and wife Jenna Green of Del Mar, CA, a daughter Carrie Marie Green of Friendswood, TX, stepson Travis Arnold of Scranton, a stepdaughter Corrina and husband Perry Vance of Scranton, five grandchildren; Courtney, Meghan, Charlie Rose, Perry and Preston, five great-grandchildren Carson, Charlie, Carmen, Callie and Chloe and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by a son Ronnie and two sisters Diane and Liz.
A blessing service will be held on Tuesday at 10:00 A.M. at the Albert P. O’Donnell Funeral Home 2025 Green Ridge Street, Dunmore. Internment Saint Catherine’s Cemetery, Moscow. Friends may call Monday from 4:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M.
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Michael A. Mesko
March 1, 2024 |
Michael A. Mesko, 69, of Scranton died on Friday, March 1st. Born in Scranton, he was the son of the late Barbara and Joseph Mesko. He was a graduate of Scranton Technical High School and previously employed at Mesko Glass Co.
Mike loved his music, sports, and arts and crafts. But foremost, his faith, family and friends.He will be remembered for his unwavering kindness, energy and enthusiasm for life, and his tenacity and courage.Mike enjoyed a special place in the hearts of many people. Thank you for the love and support you gifted him on his journey.Mike will be sadly missed. We are confident he is at rest and in peace with his loved ones.
Mike is survived by his seven siblings, Joanne Letty, Danvers, Massachusetts, Joseph Mesko and wife, Pat, Scranton, Gary Mesko, Honesdale, John Mesko and wife, Ellen, Dunmore, George Mesko and wife,Trudy, Wilkes Barre, Mary Fritz and husband, Eric, Honesdale, Mark Mesko and wife, Lisa, Dunmore, sister in law, Kathryn Mesko, Shavertown, nieces and nephews and grand nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, Barbara and Joseph Mesko, sister Barbara Kizis, brother, Robert Mesko, brother in law, Casimir Kizis.
The funeral of Christian Burial rite will be held on March 7, at 10:00 am at St. Mary’s Byzantine Catholic Church, Mifflin Avenue, Scranton. Interment will be private.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Joseph R. and Barbara J. Mesko Scholarship,℅ University of Scranton Institutional Advancement,800 Linden St., Scranton, Pa 18510, St. Mary’s Byzantine Catholic Church,310 Mifflin Ave., Scranton, Pa 18503, or a charity of the donor’s choice.
Arrangements Albert P. O’Donnell Funeral Home 2025 Green Ridge Street, Dunmore.
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Catherine Ruane
February 3, 2024 |
It is with great sadness that Catherine “Kay” (O’Malley) Ruane, of North Scranton, passed away on Saturday – her 93rd birthday.She was born in the Nativity section of Scranton and was the daughter of the late James and Sadie (Collins) O’Malley. Kay attended school at Nativity of our Lord, South Scranton Junior High School and graduated from Scranton Technical School in 1948.
Kay was an active volunteer throughout her life and dedicated her time to many local charities, especially those focusing on Polio and Cancer. She was a member of the Civil Air Patrol and was stationed at the dedication of the Wilkes Barre Scranton airport in 1947. Always willing to gather her classmates, she organized every reunion for the Tech class of 1948. She was endlessly faithful and dedicated time to her parish at Holy Rosary and along with her husband Bob, faithfully attended the Novena at St. Ann’s annually. Kay and her husband were extremely proud of being founding members of the Irish Cultural Society where they spent countless Friday nights participating in Celtic dance with many friends and fellow members. They attended many Irish Festivals in the region with those same cherished friends. She was most proud of her Irish heritage and her family, who she loved eternally.
Kay spent years working in retail at local stores such as Woolworth’s, Kresge’s and Maxwell’s while raising her family. However, her fondest career memories were spent as a paraprofessional for preschoolers at Frances Willard and Neil Armstrong schools in Scranton, until her retirement. Her students adored Ms. Kay and remembered her fondly even after graduating from high school and college. She cherished running into former students later in life.
Kay and Bob enjoyed traveling and her favorite trips included traversing the coast of California, Alaska, Hawaii, down the Mississippi River and the east coast into Canada. Her most cherished vacations were the three times she visited Ireland with various family members and having the chance to embrace the culture of her heritage. Kay was a member of the Broadway Theater League of Scranton from its inception. She enjoyed exposing her children to theater and taking both them and her grandchildren to New York to see the sites and the most current plays. Kay loved music, singing and dancing and was a stalwart fan of Jeopardy!
Kay was a devoted Catholic and lifelong member of Mary Mother of God Parish at Holy Rosary Church where she served as a Eucharistic Minister and sang in the choir, late into her life. Kay was proceeded in death by her husband Robert Ruane, her son Robert Jr., parents James and Sadie O’Malley and her sister Mary (O’Malley) Chiocco along with numerous brothers and sisters-in-law.
She is survived by her sons, James (Archbald), Thomas and companion Barbara Tigue (Newton Ransom), Michael and wife, Kathy (Dunmore), daughter Kathy and husband Mark Lloyd (Archbald) and daughter-in-law Susan Ruane (Scranton). Seven grandchildren who adored her dearly, Michael, Patrick, Daniel and Conor Ruane, Dr. Robert Ruane, Dr Therese (Ruane) Langan and Jimmy Ruane as well as 11 great grandchildren – Mickey, James, Mae, Jack, Carson, Charlie, Georgia, Cash, Bailey Ruane and Silas and Welles Langan along with many nieces and nephews.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 AM on Friday at Holy Rosary Church, Mary, Mother of God Parish316 Williams Street, Scranton.. Friends may call at Albert P. O’Donnell Funeral Home 2025 Green Ridge Street, Dunmore from 4:00 – 7:00 PM on Thursday. Interment Cathedral Cemetery. All those attending the funeral are asked to proceed to the church on Friday.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Mary Mother of God Parish at Holy Rosary Church – 316 William St. Scranton, PA.
Arrangements by Albert P. O’Donnell Funeral Home 2025 Green Ridge St. Dunmore, PA 18512.
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William J. Young
January 19, 2024 |
William J. Young left this world unexpectedly yet peacefully in his sleep on January 19, 2024. He had resided at Willowbrook Senior living for the past two years where he continued to enjoy life and was always in constant contact with his six children and their spouses, his seventeen grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. Bill lived his notable life to the fullest, which is to be expected from a man who was always the tallest in the room.
Bill was born in Scranton on June 17, 1932. He graduated from Scranton Central High School in 1950. He enlisted in the US Navy and served as a radarman on several ships. Following his military service, he returned to Scranton to pursue a degree in accounting at the University of Scranton. He married the love of his life, Kathryn Rode Kappert, on September 7, 1957, and they spent 52 happy years together and raised six children, residing for many years in their home on East Mountain.
Following his graduation from the University of Scranton in 1959, Bill and Kathryn moved from Scranton to New Jersey, where Bill earned his MBA at Rutgers University and obtained his CPA certification while working full time at Arthur Young in New York City. The family returned to Scranton in 1965 where Bill was the comptroller at the Globe Store. Bill was a founding member of the CPA firm McGrail Young and Co, and later was a partner in the firm of Parente Randolph Orlando & Carey. Bill and Kathryn then went on to purchase Farley’s restaurant in downtown Scranton in 1986, which had a 25-year run as Scranton’s most popular watering hole. Bill and Kaye also built a home in Palm Coast, Fla., where they enjoyed life on the inland waterways and were frequently visited by their children and grandchildren. During all this time, Bill devoted himself to countless civic and academic organizations. He was chairman of the Board of Trustees of Scranton Preparatory School, from which all six of his children graduated. He was constantly involved in his alma mater, the University of Scranton, where he established the President’s Club. In his later years, he continued to honor his naval service as a proud member of American Legion 121 Koch-Conley and participated in the annual Memorial Day and Veterans Day ceremonies well into his eighties. He was an enthusiastic golfer at the Country Club of Scranton where he spent many happy hours on the links and in the Clubhouse, celebrating numerous family milestones.
Bill and Kaye were devout Catholics who lived their faith. Bill was committed to providing the best possible education to their six children, and he impressed upon them the values of hard work, kindness, generosity and compassion. His great sense of humor and pithy “dadisms” will endure for generations. It is impossible to capture his very full life in a few words, and his memory will warmly live on in the hearts of the many who knew and loved him.
Bill is survived by his six children and their spouses: Vanessa Gralton (John) of Fairhaven, MA.; William Young, Jr. (Kimberly) of Clarks Summit, PA; Kathryn Baker (James) of Sewickley, PA.; Pamela Blake, MD (Franck Kpetohoto) of Klein, TX; Kyra Lyons (Thomas) of Silver Spring, MD.; and Angela Marcheski (Eric) of Delray Beach, FL. Bill is also survived by his 17 grandchildren: Margaret, Alexandra, Caroline, Genevieve, Richard, Ian, Brian, India, James, Garrett, William, Maura, Amelia, Adeline, Matthew, Joshua and Jonathan; and four great-grandchildren: John, Charlotte, Alistair and Winslow.
Funeral arrangements will be announced at a later date.
Arrangements Albert P. O’Donnell Funeral Home 2025 Green Ridge Street, Dunmore.
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Ann Padula Trionfo
January 7, 2024 |
Ann Padula Trionfo, 85, of Dunmore died peacefully Sunday at Hospice of the Sacred Heart surrounded by her family. She was preceded in death by her husband of forty-four years and her childhood sweetheart Carmen Trionfo who died May 13, 2003. Ann was born in Dunmore and was a proud Bunker Hiller. She was the daughter of the late Frank and Dorothy Reidmiller Padula and was a graduate of Dunmore High School and was member of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish and the M.A.C. Club. She worked most of her career in the garment industry. Later, she went to work at Smith’s Restaurant, baking bread daily, and introducing some delicious Italian Cuisine.
Ann was most happy hosting “Pasta Dinners” in her home with family and friends. The highlight of her social life was gathering monthly with the “Bunker Hill Belles.” All her family members understood never to interrupt Ann on Sunday during the football season.
Surviving are a daughter Dorothy and husband Kenneth Smith of Dunmore, a grandson Ryan and wife Stefanie Smith, a granddaughter Kaleena Smith Dunda and husband Joseph.and two great-grandchildren Ava Smith and Natalie Dunda, two sisters-in-law Mary Lou Padula and Irene Chuff, and nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was preceded in death by a sister Marie Padula and brothers Richard, Frank, Donald, Patrick and Joseph Padula.
Ann loved spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren and will be sadly missed by all who knew her. The family would like to thank the Hospice of the Sacred Heart of Jesus for all their compassionate care.
The funeral will be Friday from the Albert P. O’Donnell Funeral Home 2025 Green Ridge Street, Dunmore with a mass of Christian Burial at 9:30 A.M. at Saint Mary of Mount Carmel Church 322 Chestnut Street, Dunmore Interment Cathedral Cemetery. Friends may call Thursday from 5:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M. All those attending the funeral are asked to proceed directly to the church on Friday morning. Memorial contributions may be ma de to the Hospice of the Sacred Heart.
Ellen M. Dempsey
December 31, 2023 |
Ellen M. Dempsey, 79, West Palm Beach Gardens, FL and former Dunmore native, died peacefully on December 31, 2023 at Willow Creek Assisted Living in Elizabethtown, KY following a brief illness. She was the daughter of the late Thomas P. and Mary D. Dempsey of E. Grove Street in Dunmore.
Born on September 9, 1944, she was a graduate of Dunmore High School. Ellen was married to the late Jeff Richards and resided for many years in Lake Winola with their Saint Bernards where they hosted many great family parties and reunions with her beloved NJ cousins and extended family.
Fiercely independent and ahead of her times, she moved to Florida in her little yellow Subaru with no air conditioning in the early 1980s. She embarked on this new holistic life, working for a few chiropractic practices, and then starting her professional accounting life over the next 40 years. Ellen went on to work in accounting and real estate management for the Breakers in Palm Beach and the Corniche on Singer Island.
Well-loved by her close circle of friends including Rick Brooks and Kerry Maginnis, she was always the life of the party and kept everyone laughing with her keen observations on life.
Ellen was the gorgeous, tan, beloved, glamorous and classy aunt to her 11 nieces and nephews and mom to her spoiled cavalier King Charles spaniel Riley. As the family’s Florida connection, Ellen was the hostess for many visits for winter escapes and fun in the sun.
Also surviving are brother Thomas Dempsey and wife Vicki, Oak Island, NC; William Dempsey and wife Nancy, Bow, NH; brother-in-law Robert Costello, Elizabethtown, KY; sister-in-law Jill Christiana, Florence, VT and many cousins.
She was preceded in death by her sister Anne Costello, brother Brian, niece Kathleen (Kate), and nephew Vincent McGraw.
A special note of thanks to the staff of Hosparus Health, Home Instead Health, and Willow Creek Assisted Living for their extra care in Ellen’s final months.
Mass of Christian burial and a cemetery service at St. Catherine’s in Moscow will be arranged by the Albert O’Donnell Funeral Home, 2025 Green RIdge Street Dunmore at the convenience of the family.
Melvin A. Carey
January 8, 2024 |
Melvin A. Carey of Dunmore died January 8, 2024 at Dunmore Health Care Center. He was preceded in death by his wife Barbara F. Carey who died April 14, 2021. Born in Scranton, he was the son of the late LeGrande and Gertrude Viola Carey and was a graduate of the Scranton State School for the Deaf. Prior to his retirement, he worked at Tobyhanna Army Depot.
He enjoyed reading the bible each day. He was an avid bowler and fisherman.
The funeral will be Saturday from the Albert P. O’Donnell Funeral Home 2025 Green Ridge Street Dunmore with a mass of Christian Burial at 9:30 A.M. at Saint Mary of Mount Carmel Church 322 Chestnut Street , Dunmore. Interment Dunmore Cemetery. Friends may call Friday from 4:00 P.M. to 6:00 P.M. at the funeral home.
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Michael J. Murrin
December 29, 2023 |
Michael J. Murrin of Dunmore died Friday at Lehigh Valley Cedar Crest Hospital. He is survived by his wife of thirty-nine years years Diane Costanzo Murrin. Born in Scranton, he was the son of the late Thomas and Shirley Purdon Murrin and was a graduate of Dunmore High School class of 1978. He was a member of Saint Mary’s Church, Dunmore. He was retired from Federal Express.
Also surviving are a son Michael J. Murrin, Jr. of Dunmore, a granddaughter Natalie Patricia Murrin, a brother Thomas Murrin of Dunmore, twins James Murrin of Dunmore and Joseph Murrin of Scranton, and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by a brother Brian Murrin and a sister Patricia Mock.
The funeral will be Saturday from the Albert P. O’Donnell Funeral Home 2025 Green Ridge Street, Dunmore with a mass of Christian burial at 9:30 A.M. at Saint Mary’s Church 322 Chestnut Street Dunmore. Interment will be private. Friends may call Friday from 4:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M. All those attending the funeral are asked to go directly to the church on Saturday morning. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to American Diabetes Association.
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Kenneth A. Kenowski
December 22, 2023 |
Kenneth A. Kenowski of Lake Ariel died Friday at Allied Services Skilled Nursing Center. He was preceded in death by his wife of twenty-nine years Margie Kenowski who died in 2008. Born September 23, 1941, in Scranton, he was the son of the late Attorney Alphonse and Helen Husosky Kenowski and was a graduate of Scranton Central High School.
Ken served in the United States Marine Corps from 1958 to 1961. Ken was trained in underwater diving while at Brunswick Naval Station.
He was in sales, served as a caseworker, worked in real estate, and served as a project manager. Ken was a renaissance man who as an artist he did scrimshaw, drew oil paintings, watercolors, and charcoals. He was self taught and his work is owned by people all over the northeast seaboard. In his teens, he taught dance at the Arthur Murray Dance Studio.
He was a charter member and President of the Lake Winola Lions Club and served as President of the Hawley Lions Club. He was President of the Hidden Lakes Estate for four years and was the former chairman of the Cystic Fibrosis organization of Wyoming county.
He later met an angel Christine Golden who was his next love and caregiver during his illness.
He is survived by a son Chad Kenowski and daughter Kim Duckworth and a granddaughter Katherine Wood . He was preceded in death by a son Chris and a daughter Susan.
The funeral will be Saturday with a blessing service at 9:30 A.M. at the Albert P. O’Donnell Funeral home 2025 Green Ridge Street Dunmore. Interment Saint Catherine’s Cemetery, Moscow. Friends may call Friday 4:00 P.M. to 6:00 P.M.
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Dr. Peter W. Shorten
December 25, 2023 |
Dr. Peter W. Shorten,86, of Scranton died Christmas day at Regional Hospital of Scranton surrounded by his family. He was preceded in death by his wife of fifty-six years Ann Marie Gannon Shorten. Born April 4, 1937 in Davenport Iowa, he was the the son of the late Dr. Walter and Katherine Maher Shorten. He was a graduate of Saint Paul’s High School, the University of Scranton, and Palmer College of Chiropractor where he became a Doctor of Chiropractic’s. He practiced for 50 years with offices in Scranton, Lake Ariel and Moscow. He was a veteran of of the United States Army.
Peter wore many titles: husband, dad, brother, son, uncle, friend and sportsman. He was a legend in his ability to excel in many sporting activities including baseball, football, softball, tennis, sailing, cross country skiing and running. He organized the Moosic Lakes Brave’s softball team where he won many championship titles beating the legendary teams of Tom Ford, John Luciano and Larry Gallagher. He was an Aviator building two airplanes in his garage. He enjoyed the outdoors and riding his Harley Davidson. Peter loved a good cigar dipped in Drambuie, sipping a coke and talking sports, religion and politics while seated in his favorite chair at Mickey Gannon’s. He was quite the joker and loved to make everyone laugh a little bit every day.
Surviving are two sons, Michael and Peter Shorten both of Scranton, four daughters; Helen Shorten of Scranton, Melissa and husband Adrian Bustamante of Throop, Mary and husband Steve Olenchak of Henderson, Nevada, and Annie Bloom of Scranton, six grandchildren and several nieces and nephews and his dear companion Mary Kay Hopkins of Scranton. He was preceded in death by a grandson Steven Lee Olenchak.
The funeral will be Friday from the Albert P. O’Donnell Funeral Home 2025 Green Ridge Street Dunmore with mass of Christian Burial at 12:00 P.M. at Saint Paul’s Church 1510 Penn Avenue, Scranton. Interment Saint Catherine’s Cemetery, Moscow. Friends may call Thursday from 4:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M.
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Margaret G. Hlavaty
November 26, 2023 |
Margaret G. Hlavaty, 90 of Moosic Lakes, died Sunday, November 26,2023 at Hospice of the Sacred Heart, Dunmore. She was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph Hlavaty, who died in 2015.
Born and raised in Dunmore, Margaret, known as Margie to her family and friends, was the youngest child of the late Nicholas and Mary Bondurich Gudzan. She was a graduate of Dunmore High School and was a member of St. Michael’s Byzantine Catholic Church, Drinker Street, Dunmore.
Our sincerest gratitude to Margie’s physician, Dr. Wayne Weston and his staff, who were always there to help Margie and her son John. We are forever grateful to the doctors and nurses, as well as the entire staff and volunteers at Hospice of the Sacred Heart, Dunmore, PA whose compassionate care added light and guidance during Margie’s final days.
She is survived by her son, John Nicholas Hlavaty and several cousins. She was preceded in death by her husband Joe, son Joseph Michael Hlavaty, brother, Nicholas Gudzan, and two sisters, Theresa and Mary Gudzan.
Per Maragaret’s wishes a private funeral was held Thursday, November 30, 2023 with a blessing service at the Albert P. O’Donnell Funeral Home, 2025 Green Ridge St., Dunmore. Interment, St. Michael’s Cemetery, Dunmore.
Memorial contributions can be made in Margaret’s name to Hospice of the Sacred Heart, 100 William Street, Dunmore, PA 18510.
Arrangements Albert P. O’Donnell Funeral Home 2025 Green Ridge Street, Dunmore.
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Julie Ann Whelan
November 23, 2023 |
Julie Ann Whelan, 71, of Scranton died Thursday surrounded by her loving family. She is survived by her husband of 51 years Paul Whelan.
Born in Fontainebleau, France, she was the daughter of the late Robert and Margaret Lantiegne Charland. She was an active member of St. Paul’s Church, Scranton.
Also surviving are three sons, Brian Whelan of Scranton, Kevin and wife Ashley Whelan of Scranton, and Paul Whelan and wife Dyana Boxley of Rye Brook, New York; and a daughter, Melissa and husband Eamon Sariti of Dunmore; two sisters, Donna and husband Sanders Tate of Columbia, S.C. and Laurie Charland of Columbia, S.C.; seven grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by a brother, Robert Charland.
Julie was a compassionate woman of profound faith who quietly and selflessly served others in need and who cherished time spent with loved ones. A lover of gardening and photography, she shared her appreciation for the beauty of the natural world with all those around her, and her warm laughter and kind spirit brought joy to many lifelong friendships. Julie adored her grandchildren and was looking forward to welcoming her eighth grandchild this December.
The funeral will be Saturday from the Albert P. O’Donnell Funeral Home, 2025 Green Ridge St., Dunmore, with Mass of Christian Burial at 9:30 a.m. at St. Paul’s Church, 1510 Penn Ave., Scranton. Interment, St. Catherine’s Cemetery, Moscow. Friends may call Friday from 4 to 7 p.m. at the funeral home. All those attending the funeral are asked to proceed to the church on Saturday morning.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Julie’s name to Saint Joseph’s Center, 2010 Adams Avenue, Scranton, PA 18509, or online at www.stjosephscenter.org.
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Thomas Moran
November 23, 2023 |
Thomas Moran of Clarks Summit died peacefully on Thursday, November 23 at Geisinger – CMC Scranton. He is survived by his wife of fifty-eight years Maureen Sheridan Moran. Born in Scranton, he was the son of the late Art and Jean Nealon Moran. He was a graduate of Saint Paul’s High School, The University of Scranton, and Temple University. A long-standing businessman in Lackawanna County, he owns Moranco Inc., and was a former owner of The Original Coney Island of Scranton, and the Scranton Gulf Station.
Also surviving are his daughters Maureen (Jeff) Keegan, Michelle (Dan) Smith and Kate (Stephen)Busby Moran, six grandchildren, Madeline and Thomas Keegan, Colleen and Caroline Smith, and Luke, Ryan, and Emma Busby, his four sisters, Jean Doherty, Mary Mendola, Carol Mellody and Denise Moran, all of Dunmore, and many nieces, nephews and extended family who will miss him dearly. He was preceded in death by his brother Art Moran, Jr.
A mass of Christian burial will be held on Wednesday, November 29 at 10:30 A.M. at Saint Paul’s Church 1510 Penn Avenue, Scranton. Interment Dunmore Cemetery. Friends may call at the church on Wednesday morning from 9:00 A.M. until mass time. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to The St. Jude Children‘s Research Hospital in his honor.
Arrangements Albert P. O’Donnell Funeral Home 2025 Green Ridge Street, Dunmore.
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Nancy Kelly
November 16, 2023 |
Ann Marie ” Nancy” Kelly of Glenmaura and formerly of Clarks Green died Thursday at Allied Services Hospice, Scranton. She is survived by her husband of sixty-three years C. Martin Kelly. Born in Olyphant, she was the daughter of the late James and Ann Shanley Gillespie. Nancy was raised in the Hill section of Scranton and was a graduate of Saint Paul’s High School , Marywood College and the Fashion Institute. Prior to her retirement, she was a Professor at Marywood College. She was a member of Our Lady of Snows, Clarks Summit.
Also surviving are son, Rev. Fr. Canon Charles M. Kelly, Emerson, New Jersey, three daughters Colleen Ducas of Dunmore, Maura and husband Cianculli of West Chester, and Kim Bianco of Scranton, a sister Beatrice and husband Dr. Lee Robbins, Glenarm, MD, eight grandchildren Attorney Bo Loughney, Brigid Loughney, Kelly McDowell, Matthew Ducas, Ali Cianciulli, Maeve Ducas, Vincent Cianciulli, Ryan Bianco, and one great grandson, Benjamin Bartlett and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by a brother James J. Gillespie, Jr. and two sisters Mary Jane Gillespie and Mary Claire McTigue and a brother and sister in law Michael R. and Margaret Kelly.
The funeral will be Wednesday from the Albert P. O’Donnell Funeral Home 2025 Green Ridge Street, Dunmore with a funeral mass offered at 11:30 A.M. at Saint Paul’s Church 1510 Penn Avenue, Scranton Interment Saint Catherine’s Cemetery, Moscow. Friends may call Tuesday from 2;00 P.M. – 4:00 P.M. and 6:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. All those attending the funeral are asked to proceed to the church Wednesday. Memorial contributions may be made to Our Lady of Snows Church, Clarks Summit, Saint Paul’s Church, Scranton or Aliied Services Hospice, Scranton.
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Michael A. Pasquariello
October 23, 2023 |
Michael A. Pasquariello of Dunmore and formerly of Dupont died Monday at home. Born in Scranton, he was the son of the late Michael A. and Doris Radcliff Pasquariello. He was a graduate of Pittston Area High School.
Surviving are a son Michael and wife Ashley Pasquariello of Wyoming, a brother Louis and wife Mercita Pasquariello of Old Forge, three sisters Margaret Ley of Pittston, Jeanell Romanini of Clarks Summit, and Antoinette and husband Robert Ragnacci of Dunmore, three grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by a sister Diane Winters who died in 2010.
Private funeral Services were conducted from the Albert P. O’Donnell Funeral Home 2025 Green Ridge Street, Dunmore.
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Mary Bucciarelli
October 13, 2023 |
Mary Bucciarelli, age 101, of Dalton and formerly of West Scranton died Friday at Green Ridge Care Center, Scranton. She was preceded in death by her husband Anthony Bucciarelli who died in 1972. Born in Scranton, she was the daughter of the late Simone and Dorothy Zizzo Cherra. She was a graduate of Scranton Technical High School. Prior to her retirement she was employed by the Unemployment Office as a secretary. She was a member of Saint Patrick’s Church, West Scranton.
Surviving are three sons, Vince Bucciarelli of Dalton, Anthony and wife Mary Kaye Bucciarelli of Moscow, and Joseph and wife Lisa Bucciarelli of Georgia, a daughter Ann and husband Ron Pitocco of Warwick Rhode Island, two brothers Andrew Cherra of Carbondale, and Sam Cherra of Scranton, sister-in-law Helen Cherra, nine grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by an infant daughter Maria Ann Bucciarelli and a brother Joseph Cherra.
Mary loved dogs, word finds, the game show network and was an avid Penn State fan. She took great pride in cooking homemade pasta, sauce and meatballs for her family every Sunday.
We would like to extend our appreciation to Green Ridge Care Centers 500 wing staff for going above and beyond in taking care of Mary.
A mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday at 11:00 A.M. at Saint Patrick’s Church 1403 Jackson Street, Scranton. Interment Cathedral Cemetery. Friends may call from 10:00 A.M. until mass time at the church. Memorial contributions may be made to Saint Patrick’s Church or the Saint Jude’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN.
Arrangements Albert P. O’Donnell Funeral Home 2025 Green Ridge Street, Dunmore.
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Katharine O’DonnellMay 14, 2022 |
Katharine O’Donnell of Dunmore died Saturday at Regional Hospital of Scranton. She was preceded in death by her husband Thomas J. O’Donnell who died January 7, 2013.
Born in Scranton, she was the daughter of the late John and Katharine Gillespie Hennigan. She was a graduate of Saint Paul’s High School. She graduated from the Mercy School Of Nursing as a Registered Nurse. Prior to retirement she worked as a Registered Nurse in the Labor and Delivery Unit of Mercy Hospital.
Surviving are a three sons Albert P. and wife Kathleen O’Donnell of Dunmore, Thomas J. and wife Kristin O’Donnell of Dunmore, Michael J. and wife Dr. Mary Ellen O’Donnell of Devon, a daughter Katharine O. Freeman, MD and husband Jonathan Freeman, MD of Longmeadow MA,ten grandchildren; Katharine Michel MD, Elizabeth , Anne and Jack Freeman, Albert, Kate, Sarah, Clare, Megan, and Daniel O’Donnell and great-granddaughter Katharine Michel and several nieces and nephews.
The funeral will be Friday from the Albert P. O’Donnell Funeral Home with a Mass of Christian of Burial at 10:00 A.M. at Saint Paul’s Church 1510 Penn Avenue , Scranton. Interment Dunmore Cemetery. Friends may call Thursday from 3:00 P.M. to 6:00 P.M.
