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Obituaries
Bruce E. Yarmey
July 22, 2025
Bruce E. Yarmey, 75, of Kingston, passed away on July 22, 2025.Inurnment will be in Maple Hill Cemetery, Hanover Twp.Private arrangements are by the George A. Strish Inc. Funeral Home, Ashley.
Audrey E. Loux
July 20, 2025
Audrey E. Loux, 80, of Ashley, passed away on Sunday at her home, surrounded by her loving family.
Private arrangements are by the George A. Strish Inc. Funeral Home, 105 N. Main St., Ashley.
Howard W. Younker
July 14, 2025
Howard W. "Sonny" Younker., 74, of Sugar Notch passed away on Monday at his home.
Born in Hazleton on May 27, 1951, he was the son of the late Howard and Johanna Krell Younker.
Sonny was a graduate of the Weatherly Area High School, class of 1969. He was a US Army veteran of the Vietnam War, serving from Oct. 1969 to Aug. 1972, attaining the rank of SP4. He was employed by the Tobyhanna Army Depot, for 37 years of federal service, until his retirement in 2006.
Sonny was an avid sportsman, who enjoyed hunting and fishing. He loved riding his quad, enjoying the scenic outdoors. He was a member of both the Brushy Hollow Hunting Club and the Silver Ridge Hunting Club, both of Weatherly.
Surviving are his loving sons; Sean Younker, Jason Younker and his wife Lori, granddaughters; Olivia, Julie and Evelyn, sisters; Patricia Scharding and Lori Younker, brother; Richard Younker, a niece and several nephews.
A graveside service with military honors will be on Wednesday at 11 am in Oak Lawn Cemetery, Hanover Township.
Family and friends may call on Tuesday from 6 to 8 pm at the George A. Strish Inc. Funeral Home, 105 N. Main St., Ashley.

Note: This is a Paid Obit, with photo, in both the Citizen’s Voice and the Standard Speaker. A Free Obit in the TL.
Questions: George @ 239-0056.
William T. Strish Jr.
July 15, 2025
William Thomas Strish Jr., of Dallas and formerly of Shavertown, PA, passed away on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, at the Meadows Nursing & Rehabilitation Center, Dallas, PA.
He was born in Kingston, PA, the son of the late William T. and Clara (George) Strish Sr. He was a member of the graduating class of 1963 of the former Central Catholic High School, Kingston. He went on to further his education and received an Associate Degree with honors from Northampton Community College, Bethlehem, PA. He was employed for many years as a Postmaster for the United States Postal Service until his retirement in 2001. He was prominent in the martial arts community, winning multiple awards and holding a 3rd-degree black belt in Kung-Fu. He was the co-owner of The Martial Arts Training Institute, Tannersville, PA, and The Chinese Martial Arts Training Institute, Mount Pocono, PA.
Bill was a veteran of the Vietnam War and proudly served his country in the US Navy from 1966 to 1967 as Petty Officer 3rd Class. He was aboard the aircraft carrier, the USS Forrestal, in 1967 when a severe fire occurred, triggering a chain reaction of explosions that killed 134 sailors and injured 161. He was the recipient of the National Defense Service Medal and the Vietnam Service Medal with one bronze star. He continued his military career in the Army Reserves and was an E4 CPL.
Bill was a talented musician and vocalist, playing the keyboard “by ear” for the Lou Mann Band and The Tones. He was the Past Post Commander of the VFW Post 283, Kingston, following in his father’s footsteps. He was also a member of the Knights of Columbus, 3rd Degree, Council 3987, Luzerne, and a member of the Republican County Committee representing Kingston Twp.
Bill adored his wife of 44 years, Patti, and was a devoted father and grandfather.
Preceding him in death were his beloved wife, Patricia (Meineker) Strish, in 2012, and brother, Lawrence Strish, in 1995.
Surviving are his daughters, Kathlin Lech (Jerome), Larksville, PA, and Joann Strish-Halbach (Paul), Shavertown, PA; two grandchildren, Aubrey and Reagan Halbach; sisters, Mary C. Janick and her partner, Ronald Fetterman, Nuangola, PA, and Janice Bevan (Bobby), Plains, PA; several nieces and nephews; one great-nephew; and several cousins.
Funeral Services will be held on Monday, July 21, 2025, at 9:15 am from the George A. Strish, Inc. Funeral Home, 105 North Main St., Ashley. Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 am from St. Therese’s Church, 64 Davis St., Shavertown, PA 18708.
Family and friends may call at the funeral home on Sunday, July 20, 2025, from 4:00 to 6:00 pm. Interment will be in St. Anthony of Padua Cemetery, Courtdale, PA.
The family would like to extend their deep gratitude to the entire staff of Serenity Care, Kingston, especially to Joanie, Peggy, and Toni, and also to the staff of the Meadows Nursing & Rehabilitation Center, Dallas, for the excellent care and compassion given to Bill in his time of need.
Donations can be made in his memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.
Peter C. Weise
July 13, 2025
Peter Copeland Weise, 79, of White Haven, passed away on July 13, 2025.
Interment with military honors will be on Monday in the Indiantown Gap National Cemetery, Annville.
Arrangements are by the George A. Strish Inc. Funeral Home, 105 N. Main St., Ashley.
Joseph J. Rasavage Jr.
July 7, 2025
Joseph J. Rasavage Jr., 66, a life-long resident of Sugar Notch, passed away on July 7, 2025 at the Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center, Plains Twp., surrounded by his loving family.
Born in Wilkes-Barre on Oct. 3, 1958, he was the son of the late Joseph Sr. and Stella Buhoski Rasavage.
He was a graduate of Hanover Area High School, where he excelled in their basketball program and he earned himself a Wyoming Valley Conference All-Star selection. He was employed for 29 years by Cintas, Olyphant, until his retirement.
Joe was an avid sports fanatic. He was a Penn State Football, Indianapolis Colts Football and New York Yankees Baseball fan. He loved to listen to music and he followed the band KISS, where he was known to dress up and play the part of Gene Simmons. He also played bass guitar in his local band “Main Street.” He also enjoyed golfing and being at the Ocean City, MD beach. Most of all, Joe enjoyed spending his time with his beloved family and friends and various holiday parties, most especially the 4th of July cook-outs and Christmas Eve dinners.
He was preceded in death by his beloved dog, Jingles.
Surviving is his loving sister; Debbie Petros and her husband George of Larksville; niece Kimberly Petros and nephew Stephen Petros; and several cousins.
Family and friends are invited to attend his Memorial Mass of Christian Burial on Tuesday at 10 am in St. Leo the Great Parish, Ashley. Internment, at a later date, will be in Holy Trinity Cemetery, Bear Creek.
Memorial calling hours will be on Monday from 5 to 7 pm at the George A. Strish Inc. Funeral Home, 105 N. Main St., Ashley.
Frances Violet (Kuderski) Soroka
July 06, 2025
Frances Violet (Kuderski) Soroka, age 95, formerly of the Buttonwood section of Hanover Twp., PA, passed away on Sunday, July 6, 2025, at the Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center, Wilkes Barre, PA. Private funeral services will be held at the convenience of the family. Funeral arrangements are by the George A. Strish, Inc. Funeral Home, 105 North Main St., Ashley, PA.
Michael J. Prestas Jr.
JUNE 16, 2025
Michael J. Prestas Jr., 71, of Ashley, passed away on Monday, June 16, 2025, at his home.
Born in Wilkes-Barre on Nov. 2, 1953, he was the son of Jean Upton Prestas and the late Michael J. Prestas Sr.
Mike was employed by the Ashley Borough, until his retirement. He was an avid drag racing fan, along the way procuring lots of drag racing memorabilia. He also enjoyed spending his time in the great outdoors.
He was preceded in death by his sister; Linda Prestas.
Surviving is his son; Michael J. Prestas III and his wife Michelle, granddaughters; Zoey and Layla, mother; Jean Prestas.
Private arrangements are by the George A. Strish Inc. Funeral Home, 105 N. Main St., Ashley.
Thomas E. Heiser Sr.
June 14, 2025
Thomas E. Heiser Sr., 84, of Hanover Twp., passed away on Saturday at his home. Mass of Christian burial is on Thursday at 12:30 pm in St. Leo the Great Parish, Ashley. Family & friends may call at the church from 11:30 am until 12:30 pm.
Arrangements are by George A. Strish Inc. Funeral Home, Ashley.
Thomas Edward Heiser Sr., 84, of Hanover Twp, PA, passed away peacefully at home on June 14th, 2025. Thomas was born November 21, 1940, in Wilkes-Barre, PA, to the late George and Elizabeth Heiser. He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Mary Frances Heiser; his children Thomas E. Heiser, Jr. of Hanover Twp, PA, and his fiancée Lisa Farrell of Kingston, PA; Melissa Fiscus and her husband, Lon, of Corning, NY; and his four grandchildren: Thomas E. Heiser III and his wife, Alana, of Virginia Beach, VA; Jeremy Heiser of Warrior Run, PA; Jack Fiscus of Corning NY; Jordan Fiscus of Corning, NY. He is also survived by his sister, Barbara Griffith of Wilkes-Barre, PA, as well as several nieces and nephews.
Thomas attended Wilkes-Barre Township High School and then served in the U.S. Army. After his discharge, Thomas worked for Air Products for 33 years until his retirement in 1999. Thomas was a member of St. Leo's Holy Rosary Church in Ashley, PA, where he was a member of the Holy Name Society and the Altar and Rosary Society. In retirement, Thomas enjoyed cooking and baking, especially pineapple squares. He also enjoyed summer days in the pool with his family's beloved dogs.
Francis J. Gibbs, 66, formerly of Scranton & Plains, passed away on June 12, 2025, at the Edenbrook on Second Ave., Kingston.
Private arrangements are by the George A. Strish Inc. Funeral Home, Ashley.
GEORGE A. STRISH INC. FUNERAL HOME
PHILLIP S. WOODS
JUNE 6, 2025
Phillip S. Woods, 82, of Wilkes-Barre Township, passed away on Friday afternoon, June 6th.
Born in Wilkes-Barre on Nov. 3, 1942, he was the son of the late Robert Woods and the late Margaret Fine Woods Baroody.
Phil was a devoted and loving husband to his wife Rita for more than 62 years. His larger-than-life personality was adored by all. His greatest joy in life was his family. He cherished spending time with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, especially on holidays and family vacations. He loved good food, rock 'n’ roll music, old Westerns, fishing, bowling, and scratch-off lottery tickets.
Phil was a very hard worker and proud business owner of Crest Quality Cleaners, Wilkes-Barre, for more than 35 years. He then passed the business along to his son, who he still enjoyed working part-time after retirement.
He was preceded in death by his mother and father, mother-in-law Ann Zavaskas, father-in-law Charles Zavaskas, 4 sisters, 6 brothers, and grandson Andrew Crawford.
Surviving is his loving wife Rita Zavaskas Woods, daughters; Anita Florek and her husband Richard, Donna Crawford, Pamela Finley and her husband Timothy, son; Phillip Woods Jr, grandchildren; Richard, Krista, Randall, Adam and Kacee; 9 great-grandchildren, sisters; Peggy Vino, Mary Cappellini and her husband Raymond, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Phil was a member of St. Leo the Great Parish, Ashley.
Funeral services will be held on Wednesday at 10:30 am from the George A. Strish Inc. Funeral Home, 105 N. Main St., Ashley. A Mass of Christian Burial is at 11 am in St. Leo the Great Parish. Interment will follow in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Hanover Township.
This is a private service for Family only. The family may call on Wednesday from 9:30 to 10:30 am.
Note: This is a Paid Obituary with a Large Photo in the CV and a Free Obit in the TL.
Gregory J. Kuhl, 66, of Mountain Top, passed away on Thursday at his home, surrounded by his loving family.
Born in Wilkes-Barre on Sep. 9, 1958.
Born again in Lakeville on July 7, 2017. A graduate of G.A.R. Memorial High School, class of 1976. A struggling singer and songwriter, who labored at many jobs after the closing of ACME Markets.
He was always most comfortable when outdoors. An avid fisherman and motorsport enthusiast. He feared God and loved Jesus, his family, and the Green Bay Packers. He retired in 2019, to be a full-time disciple of Christ. He was a member of the Parsons Primitive Methodist Church. There was nothing he enjoyed more than leading the congregation in song.
He leaves behind his wife and best friend; Gayle, children; Amber, Alan, Arik, Casey, Gunnar, and Zoe, 4 beautiful grandchildren, brother; David, sister; Michelle and many cousins.
Now may the Lord of Peace himself, give you peace, always and in every way. May the Lord be with you all. Private arrangements are by the George A. Strish Inc. Funeral Home, Ashley.
George M. Havey, of the Honey Pot section of Nanticoke, passed away on Friday, May 30, 2025 at the Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center, nine days shy of his 87th birthday.
Born in Nanticoke on June 10, 1938, he was the son of the late George and Frances Havey.
George was a graduate of the Nanticoke Area schools and he had served in the US Army Enlisted Reserves from June 1961 to Apr. 1967. He was employed, as a truck driver, for 33 years by Wickes Inc., Wilkes-Barre Township, until his retirement.
George was an avid sportsman, who loved to hunt and fish on the family farm in Hunlock Creek, with his family and friends. George was a skilled craftsman, who took great pride in building his own family home from the ground up. He loved to help his family and friends remodel and construct their own homesteads, as he was a “Jack of All Trades.” He was a member of St. Faustina Parish, Nanticoke.
He was preceded in death by his sisters; Anne and Kathleen.
Surviving is his loving wife of 65 years the former; Ann Marie Borofski Havey, daughter; Georgeann Havey, son; Michael Havey and his wife Kelli, 4 grandchildren, brother-in-law; Anthony Grevera and his wife Beth, several nieces and nephews.
Private funeral arrangements were by the George A. Strish Inc. Funeral Home, 105 N. Main St., Ashley.
Douglas R. Fischer, 77, formerly of Kingston, passed away on May, 30, 2025. Graveside service is on Friday at 10:30 am in Chapel Lawn Memorial Park, Dallas. Funeral arrangements are by the George A. Strish Inc. Funeral Home, Ashley.
Alfred M. Salvagno, 76, of Nanticoke, passed away on May 20, 2025. The inurnment is in Indiantown Gap National Cemetery, Annville. Arrangements are by the George A. Strish Inc. Funeral Home, Ashley.
Lois J. Feist, 74, formerly of Hanover Township, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 14, 2025.
She was born in Wilkes Barre, PA on April 17, 1951, the daughter of the late Joseph and Theresa (Mraczkoski) Jarzenbovicz.
She was a graduate of Hanover Memorial High School, class of 1969. Lois was employed as a telephone operator by the former Bell Telephone Company of Pennsylvania, Bell Atlantic, and finally Verizon until her retirement.
Lois was known for her devotion to praying the rosary and it was a source of comfort and strength throughout her life. She was a lover of bingo, enjoyed sewing, and had a passion for decorating her home into a warm and inviting space.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Raymond J. Feist, Jr., her brother, Joseph J. Jarzenbovicz, sister-in-law, Lois Glycenfer, and nephews John Mikolaitis and Kristopher Feist.
Surviving is her daughter, Jennifer Feist-Johns, and her husband, Michael; son, Raymond J. Feist III and his wife, Elizabeth, grandson, Raymond J. Feist IV (“RJ”); sister, Marie Wellons and her husband, James, brother-in-law, Ronald Feist and his wife, Kathy; sister-in-law, Antoinette Mikolaitis and her husband, Jack, brother-in-law, Robert Glycenfer and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to the St. Vincent de Paul Kitchen, PO Box 1088, Wilkes Barre, PA 18703.
A Prayer Service will be held on Thursday, May 22, 2025, at 7:00 pm from the George A. Strish, Inc. Funeral Home, 105 North Main St., Ashley. Memorial calling hours will be on Thursday at the funeral home from 5:00 pm until the time of service.
Albina A. Lavenduski, age 98, of The Pines, Dallas, PA, passed away on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, at the Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center, Wilkes-Barre, PA. She was born in the Askam section of Hanover Twp., PA, on August 20, 1926, the daughter of the late Michael and Albina (Piestrak) Dutko. Albina was a member of the graduating class of 1943 of Hanover High School. She was employed by the Rite Aid Drug Store, Dallas, PA, as a cashier for many years until her retirement in 2011. She was a member of St. Leo the Great Parish, Ashley, PA, and also a member of the former Holy Family Church, Sugar Notch, PA. Preceding her in death was her husband of 47 years, Stanley W. Lavenduski; great granddaughter, Gemma Winters; brothers, Roman, Joseph, and John Dutko; sisters, Josephine Dutko and Rose Belletieri. Surviving are daughters, Carol Simmons and Cathy Lavenduski, son, Robert Lavenduski and his wife, Elena Antonelli, 3 grandchildren, Lindsay Simmons, Sara Lavenduski, Caroline Lavenduski Winters, and her husband, Richard, 2 great granddaughters, Zosia Wroblewski and Giada Winters. Several nieces and nephews also survive. A Memorial Mass will be held on May 23, 2025, at 11:00 AM at St. Leo the Great Parish, 33 Manhattan St., Ashley, PA. Inurnment will follow in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Mary Mother of God Mausoleum, Hanover Twp., PA. Family and friends may call at the church from 10:00 AM until the time of the Mass. Monetary donations can be made in Albina’s memory to Sisters of Mercy, 301 Lake St., Dallas, PA 18612. Funeral arrangements are by the George A. Strish, Inc. Funeral Home, 105 North Main St., Ashley, PA.
Josephine C. Evans, age 74, a lifelong resident of the Preston section of Hanover Twp., PA, passed away on Saturday, May 10, 2025. She was born in Wilkes Barre, PA, on August 9, 1950, the daughter of the late Stephen and Anna (Bardar) Fialkowski. She was a member of the graduating class of 1968 of Hanover High School. She continued on with her education and graduated from LCCC and Bloomsburg State College, where she received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Education in 1976. She retired in 2019 after working at the Social Security Administration Office for over 40 years. Josephine was a devoted wife, loving mother, and sister. She was a devout member of St. Leo the Great Parish, Ashley. Preceding her in death were her husband of 34 years, Richard P. Evans Sr., in 2011, son Richard P. Evans Jr in 2023, brothers, Joseph Bardar and Teddy Fialkowski, sisters, Joan Harding and Margaret Coroneos. Surviving is her son, Stephen T. Evans and his fiancée’, Kelly Evanko, Dunmore, PA, sister, Ann Warnick, Ashley, PA. Several nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews also survive. A Memorial Mass will be held on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at 11:00 am from St. Leo the Great Church, 33 Manhattan St., Ashley, with Rev. Vincent Dang officiating. Interment will follow in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Hanover Twp. Family and friends are invited to a Memorial Visitation on Monday, May 19, 2025, from 5:00 – 7:00 pm at the George A. Strish, Inc. Funeral Home, 105 North Main St., Ashley. The family wishes to express their deep gratitude to the entire staff of the Wilkes Barre General Hospital ICU and also to the entire staff of Compassionate Care Hospice, especially Brianna, for the excellent care and compassion given to Josephine in her time of need. Donations can be made in her memory to St. Leo the Great Church, 33 Manhattan St., Ashley, PA 18706.
Patricia E. Mazzucco, 71, of Pittston Twp. And formerly of Raritan, NJ, passed away on May 13, 2025.
Private arrangements are by the George A. Strish Inc. Funeral Home, 105 N. Main St., Ashley.
Eugene W. Hagenbach, age 81, of Glen Lyon, PA, passed away on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, at his residence. Surviving is his wife, Sylvia (Siepietowski) Hagenbach, at home. Private funeral Services will be held at the convenience of the family. Funeral Arrangements are by the George A. Strish, Inc. Funeral Home, 211 W. Main St., Glen Lyon, PA.
Joseph Bernoski Jr., 80, formerly of Hanover Twp., passed away on Sunday, May 11, 2025, at the Wilkes-Barre General Hospital. Private arrangements are by the George A. Strish Inc. Funeral Home, 105 N. Main St., Ashley.
Ronald M. McAdarra Sr., age 78 of Pittston, PA, passed away on Sunday, May 4, 2025, at the Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center, Wilkes Barre.
He was born in Wilkes Barre, PA on July 24, 1946, the son of the late John and Rachel (Davis) McAdarra. He attended GAR High School in Wilkes-Barre.
A Veteran of the Vietnam War, Ronald was proud to serve in the US Army from 1968-69. He was the recipient of the National Defense Service Medal and an
M-14 expert.
Ronald was employed for many years as a Baker for various local bakeries until his retirement in 2008.
He was a devoted and loving husband, father, and grandfather (Pop-Pop). In his early retirement years, he enjoyed traveling with his wife and was an active member of the Pittston Active Adult Center, where he loved playing bingo and coordinating as well as participating in events, holiday events, where he would sing and dance. He loved Motown music and dancing with our mom. Our dad had a big heart and was a loving person whom others always wanted to be around. He had funny sayings as well that we will never forget. He was proud of his Irish heritage and made his Christmas cookies and other pastries at home. He accomplished a lot in life, but his greatest was always his family, which he adored greatly. After the love of his life passed in September of 2023, he spent every day missing her. Dad, you are with Mom again. We will miss you both. Our family is left with a hole, but until we meet again, we love you both, Dad and Mom, always.
Preceding him in death were his beloved wife of 55 years, Sharon L. (Hopkins) McAdarra in 2023, brothers, Larry, Jimmy, and George McAdarra, and sisters, Carol Lee and Mary L. McAdarra.
Surviving are sons, Ronald M. McAdarra Jr. and his wife, Aleah, Newfield, NJ, Brian P. McAdarra and his companion, Timothy, Tunkhannock, PA, daughter, Charlotte McAdarra and her wife, Alex, Plains, PA, 4 grandchildren, Sasha, Kaila, Gage, and Ireland, 1 great-grandchild
Comprehensive Obituary Services for Your Loved Ones
At George A. Strish, Inc. Funeral Home, we understand the importance of honoring your loved one's memory with a thoughtfully crafted obituary. Our compassionate team offers a range of obituary services to ensure your family member's life story is told with care and respect. We're here to support you through this difficult time with our expertise in:
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As a family-owned business serving the Wyoming Valley for over 82 years, we're committed to providing premium customer service with empathy and understanding. Contact us today and let us help you create a lasting tribute to your loved one.
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A thoughtfully written obituary serves as a lasting memorial and helps inform the community of your loss. George A. Strish, Inc. Funeral Home understands the significance of this final tribute.
Our obituary services are essential for:
- Honoring your loved one's life and accomplishments
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With over 82 years of experience, we have the expertise to help you create a meaningful obituary. Visit us to discuss how we can assist you in this important task.
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When you select George A. Strish, Inc. Funeral Home for your obituary needs, you're choosing a trusted partner in your time of loss.
Our locally owned and operated funeral home offers:
- Experienced, empathetic staff available 24/7
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As the Times Leader's "Best Funeral Home" in 2017 and 2021, we're dedicated to providing exceptional service to families of all faiths. Reach out to us and let us to support you in creating a fitting tribute to your loved one.
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During this challenging time, George A. Strish, Inc. Funeral Home is here to provide the caring assistance you need with obituary services. Our experienced team is ready to guide you through the process, ensuring your loved one's memory is honored with dignity and respect. Don't hesitate to reach out – we're here to support you every step of the way in creating a meaningful and lasting tribute.
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