Skook News Obituaries: July 10th, 2025
Obituaries published from the Schuylkill County area.
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Born in Pottsville on April 1, 1957, he was the son of the late Robert Daniel Shuman and Betty Ossman Shuman. He was named in honor of his grandfathers, Daniel Shuman and Anthony Ossman, and also his great-great grandfather, Daniel Donne, a veteran of the PA 48th Division in the Civil War.
He was a 1975 graduate of Pottsville High School. He then attended Vale Technical Institute where he received an associate degree in automotive technology.
He initially worked at Pritz Dodge. He later began work at the new Heritage Ford dealership in Orwigsburg and later Pottsville. His final place of employment was at Hammer’s Garage, Minersville, from which he retired earlier this year. After “retiring”, Dan began working part-time with his son and step-son at West End Towing and Recovery in Tremont.
He was a faithful member of Trinity Lutheran Church, Pottsville, where he served on the Christmas Pageant Committee. He was also in the process of learning sign language to assist in worship. He was currently working with the 50th class reunion committee for the class of 1975.
He loved learning about his family history, enjoyed his garden, and loved visiting Lake Wallenpaupack.
Dan was always there to help someone. When he had a snowplow on his pickup, he plowed the church lot and the road into Odd Fellows Cemetery. Whenever anyone needed help with any kind of mechanical problem, Dan was there. He was one of those unique people who could fix anything and fix it right. He was a kind soul who would listen to anyone’s problems without judgment. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and neighbors.
He is survived by his sons, Dr. Christian Shuman (Erica) and Jonathon (Tandi); grandchildren Carson and Ava Shuman; McKinley and Avery Shuman; his former wives, Holly Barrett, and Brenda Shuman; a companion, Alda Howells. He is also survived by a step-son, Patrick Kimmel and a step-daughter, Elizabeth Kimmel. In addition, he is also survived by his sisters, Deborah Reed (Mark), Lisa Grabowski (Joe); brothers Harold (JeanAnn), Kurt (Michelle), and Erik (Lisa). He leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and numerous Shuman and Ossman cousins.
Services will be held at Trinity Lutheran Church in Pottsville on July 14th, 2025. A viewing will take place from 10 AM-12 Noon with funeral service to follow. Interment will be at Odd Fellows Cemetery, Pottsville.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Trinity Lutheran Church in Pottsville, Phoenix Park Community Fire Company, Pottsville Library, or the Schuylkill County Historical Society.
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Joyce S. Haley, 78, of Spittler Rd., Pine Grove, passed away on Tuesday, July 8, 2025 at home.
Born on August 28, 1946 in Pine Grove Township, she was a daughter of the late John and Elsie Boyer Glore.
She was a 1964 graduate of Pine Grove High School.
Joyce worked as a sewing machine operator for the former Summit Station, Mfg. in Pine Grove.
She was a member of St. Paul's United Church of Christ, Ravine.
Preceding her in death were her husband of 51 years, George J. Haley on Jan. 1, 2020, a brother, John M. Glore and a sister, Arlene J. Klinger.
Surviving are a sister-in-law, Judy Swartz and nieces and nephews.
All services will be held at the convenience of the family.
In lieu of flowers, the family would prefer contributions be made to the Ruth Steinert Memorial SPCA, 18 Wertz Dr., Pine Grove, PA 17963, in her memory.
The H. L. Snyder Funeral Home, Inc., Pine Grove is in charge of arrangements.
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Abigail was born in Pottsville on February 9, 2001, the daughter of Bobbi Jo (Rosensteel) and Richard Smith, of New Ringgold.
Abby was a Blue Mountain graduate, class of 2019. She enjoyed participating in drama club, plays, and theater as well as painting. She earned her Associate Degree in Veterinary technology from LCCC. She worked as a Veterinary Technician for Rush Veterinary Urgent care, Allentown.
Her love of animals brought her into her career of helping many pets, even rescuing some of her own. In her free time she enjoyed spending time in nature and going to concerts.
In addition to her parents, Abby is survived by her sister, Rikki Lynn, wife of Devin Deibert and her nephew Colton Deibert; her longtime companion Nick Vassallo and his son Torryn; maternal grandmother Barbara Rosensteel, widow of Harold; paternal grandparents Paul & Jean Smith and also Abby's cats Goose, Duckie, Greg and Flea.
She was predeceased by her paternal grandmother Beverly Smith.
Friends and family are invited to JC Hill Tree Farm, 83 West Rauschs Road (Barn 3), in Orwigsburg on Saturday July 19th from 9:00 AM until 11:00 AM for visitation. There will be a service to follow starting promptly at 11 AM with Rev Preston Broadhurst officiating. After the service, guests are invited to stay and celebrate Abby's life and enjoy fellowship and refreshment with her family. Casual attire is suggested. Interment will be private.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Coal Cats Cafe, 209 W. Broad Street, Tamaqua, PA 18252 or by visiting their website and donating through their amazon wishlist.
Hamilton-Breiner Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc., Orwigsburg, is honored to be serving the family.
Thomas C. Rowlands, 76 years of age of Tamaqua, Pennsylvania passed away on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, upon arrival at St. Luke's Miners Memorial in Coaldale, Pennsylvania.
Born Friday, May 13, 1949 in Coaldale the son of the late David J., and Sara M. (Faust) Rowlands. Tom was also predeceased by; twin brother, David.
Surviving are; his wife of 39 years, Joanne M. (Pedron) Rowlands; sisters, Suzanne Crewalk wife of John, Megan Lentes wife of Mark, ; very dear caregiver Ally Vega. Nieces and nephews also survive Tom.
A 1967 graduate of Tamaqua Area High School. A talented carpenter, Tom worked for Curtis J. Bailey Construction for 42 years.
Funeral Arrangements have been entrusted to the E. Franklin Griffiths Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc. 655 East Broad Street Tamaqua Pennsylvania 18252. (570) 668-2550
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday July 14, 2025 at 11 o'clock A.M. from St. John XXIII R.C.C. 307 Pine Street Tamaqua Pennsylvania 18252
Gerald “Jerry” Stefanick, 82, of Frackville passed away Wednesday morning July 9th at Grandview Nursing & Rehabilitation in Danville.
Kull-Heizenroth Funeral Home Inc, 901 Centre St, Ashland PA 17921 has been entrusted with the arrangements.
Joseph L. Stankavage, a resident of Ringtown, passed away on July 7th, 2025 at the Geisinger Medical Center in Danville.
Joe was born in Shenandoah on March 14th, 1943, a son of the late Leo and Erma (Lindenmuth) Stankavage. After graduating high school, he entered the US Army, serving his county as a Sergeant over seas in Germany during the Cold War. He later went on to work during his lifetime as a union bricklayer, becoming a master mason. He attended St. Mary's Church in Ringtown.
Joe was a longtime member of the Ringtown hunting club, and the Harry A. Kase Post American Legion. He was an avid fisherman and enjoyed fishing off Long Beach Island at the shore. He was an avid fan of bluegrass music and enjoyed attending bluegrass festivals and flea markets.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two sisters, Joan Chamberlain and Leona Deibert.
He is survived by his children, Victoria, wife of Larry Applegate and a son, Gordon Stankavage, all of New Jersey. Three grandchildren, Alexander, Madison and Bianca survives, and he was anticipating the arrival of a great granddaughter, Kinsley Rae in the near future. Nieces, nephews and many friends also survive.
Relatives and friends are invited to a viewing on Tuesday, July 15th, from 9 - 11 AM at the Stauffer-Breznik Funeral Home, 412 West Main Street, Ringtown. Graveside services with military honors will be held at St. Mary's Cemetery in Ringtown at 11:15 AM.
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in memory of Joe to a charity one's choice.
You may leave an online condolence at www.ringtownfuneral.com. The Stauffer-Breznik Funeral Home, RIngtown, is assisting Joe's family during thier time of need.
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Nancy W. Artz, 91, passed away in her Wyomissing residence, Monday, July 7th, 2025.
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Robert M. Doyne, Sr., 68, formerly of Jonestown, Cass twp., passed away Tuesday, July 8th, at Reading Hospital and Medical Center.
Robert was born in Pottsville, Pa. on January 7, 1957, a son of the late Marguerite (Scheibelhut) and Donald F. Doyne.
He was the widower of Janet (Dukmen) Doyne.
He was a member of Ss. Peter & Paul Byzantine Catholic Church Minersville. Robert was a Civil Engineer formerly employed by Benesch Engineering.
In addition to his parents and his wife, Janet, he was preceded in death by a sister, Jane Sunday.
Robert is survived by a son, Robert M. Jr., husband of Jody Doyne, a daughter, Jessica M, wife of Anthony Italiani He is also survived by his grandchildren, Lukas and Camryn Doyne. Also surviving is a brother Donald J. husband of Joanne Doyne.
All are respectfully invited to attend a Visitation from 8:30 to 10:00 AM on Tuesday, July 15th at Mahal-Ritzel Funeral Home Inc. in Minersville. An Office of Christian Burial will be celebrated 10:30 am at Ss. Peter & Paul Byzantine Catholic Church in Minersville, with Very Rev. James Carroll, OFM celebrant.
Interment at Ss. Peter & Paul Byzantine Catholic Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Ss. Peter & Paul Memorial Fund.
Mahal-Ritzel Funeral Home Inc., Minersville entrusted with the arrangements.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Coal Cats Cafe, 209 W. Broad Street, Tamaqua, PA 18252 or by visiting their website and donating through their amazon wishlist.
Hamilton-Breiner Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc., Orwigsburg, is honored to be serving the family.
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Thomas C. Rowlands, 76 years of age of Tamaqua, Pennsylvania passed away on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, upon arrival at St. Luke's Miners Memorial in Coaldale, Pennsylvania.
Born Friday, May 13, 1949 in Coaldale the son of the late David J., and Sara M. (Faust) Rowlands. Tom was also predeceased by; twin brother, David.
Surviving are; his wife of 39 years, Joanne M. (Pedron) Rowlands; sisters, Suzanne Crewalk wife of John, Megan Lentes wife of Mark, ; very dear caregiver Ally Vega. Nieces and nephews also survive Tom.
A 1967 graduate of Tamaqua Area High School. A talented carpenter, Tom worked for Curtis J. Bailey Construction for 42 years.
Funeral Arrangements have been entrusted to the E. Franklin Griffiths Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc. 655 East Broad Street Tamaqua Pennsylvania 18252. (570) 668-2550
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday July 14, 2025 at 11 o'clock A.M. from St. John XXIII R.C.C. 307 Pine Street Tamaqua Pennsylvania 18252
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Gerald “Jerry” Stefanick, 82, of Frackville passed away Wednesday morning July 9th at Grandview Nursing & Rehabilitation in Danville.
Kull-Heizenroth Funeral Home Inc, 901 Centre St, Ashland PA 17921 has been entrusted with the arrangements.
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Joe was born in Shenandoah on March 14th, 1943, a son of the late Leo and Erma (Lindenmuth) Stankavage. After graduating high school, he entered the US Army, serving his county as a Sergeant over seas in Germany during the Cold War. He later went on to work during his lifetime as a union bricklayer, becoming a master mason. He attended St. Mary's Church in Ringtown.
Joe was a longtime member of the Ringtown hunting club, and the Harry A. Kase Post American Legion. He was an avid fisherman and enjoyed fishing off Long Beach Island at the shore. He was an avid fan of bluegrass music and enjoyed attending bluegrass festivals and flea markets.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two sisters, Joan Chamberlain and Leona Deibert.
He is survived by his children, Victoria, wife of Larry Applegate and a son, Gordon Stankavage, all of New Jersey. Three grandchildren, Alexander, Madison and Bianca survives, and he was anticipating the arrival of a great granddaughter, Kinsley Rae in the near future. Nieces, nephews and many friends also survive.
Relatives and friends are invited to a viewing on Tuesday, July 15th, from 9 - 11 AM at the Stauffer-Breznik Funeral Home, 412 West Main Street, Ringtown. Graveside services with military honors will be held at St. Mary's Cemetery in Ringtown at 11:15 AM.
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in memory of Joe to a charity one's choice.
You may leave an online condolence at www.ringtownfuneral.com. The Stauffer-Breznik Funeral Home, RIngtown, is assisting Joe's family during thier time of need.
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Born in Pottsville, she was the daughter of the late James H. and Blanche (Lehman) Walton.
Nancy was known for her unwavering faith, warm spirit, and love for those around her. A devoted member of Lincoln Park United Methodist Church, Nancy's life was one of service and song. She was a cherished member of the church choir, where her voice lifted the hearts of many and brought peace and joy to the congregation.
Nancy was known for her unwavering faith, warm spirit, and love for those around her. A devoted member of Lincoln Park United Methodist Church, Nancy's life was one of service and song. She was a cherished member of the church choir, where her voice lifted the hearts of many and brought peace and joy to the congregation.
Alongside her late husband, Walter, Nancy co-owned and operated Reading Home Video in Shillington for 15 years. Their dedication to their business reflected their shared values of hard work, community, and kindness.
Nancy will be remembered for her generosity, her deep love for her church family, and the way she always made time for others. Her presence will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
Nancy will be lovingly remembered by her daughters, Donna L. Sweimler (Chris H.) and Deborah A. Christopher (Daniel S.), both of Sinking Spring; grandsons, Douglas J. Sweimler (Alys) and Bradley A. Sweimler; and granddaughter, Caitlyn R. Wojnar (Adam S.). She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Walter.
The family will receive visitors on Monday, July 14, 2025, at Lincoln Park United Methodist Church beginning at 9:00 a.m., followed by a memorial service at 10:00 a.m. and luncheon. Interment will take place at Schuylkill Memorial Park.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Lincoln Park United Methodist Church. Edward J. Kuhn Funeral Home, Inc, 739 Penn Avenue, West Reading, PA 19611 is honored to serve the Artz family.
Lori Anne (Borinsky) Hardy, 59, a resident of Pottsville passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 3rd, 2025, at St. Luke’s Bethlehem.
Lori was born in Pottsville, on April 19, 1966, she was a daughter of the late Vincent J. and Gloria Ann (Brown) Borinsky.
Loti graduated from Junction City High School, Junction City, Kansas. She was a devoted Christian and attended FaithAssembly of God Church in Cressona.
Lori is survived by spouse, Matthew Steele, two loving sons, Chris(Sam) Hardy, Havanna, Florida, and Josh (Lindsey) Hardy of Sparks, Georgia, her baby girl and caretaker, Hannah (Timothy) McDonald of Pottsville, PA, two stepdaughters, Laura and Karen Steele, and eight grandbabies, Lee McDonald, Logan McDonald, and Ezra-Ferron Hardy, Amiee Thomason, Madi McDonald, Kelsi Warren, Avya & Jayda, her uncle, Frank Brown and aunt, Cathy Brown.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in. death by her sister Victoria M. Borinsky-Robinson.
A viewing will be held on Sunday, July 13th from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM at Schlitzer Allen Pugh Funeral Home, 515 W. Market Street, Pottsville.
John Lute, 90, of Barry Township, passed away with his wife at his side, Wednesday, July 9, 2025, at his home. Born in Mowry, September 19, 1934, he was the son of Henry and Della (Reinoehl) Lute. He was a graduate of the former Ashland High School, class of 1952, as a 4-Star athlete. Following high school, John entered the U.S. Army, serving in the Korean War, as a Military Policeman. He earned the National Defense Service Metal and the Good Conduct Medal. After his discharge from Military Service, he graduated from Colorado State University, class of 1960, with a degree in education. He was employed as a teacher and football coach for the Upper Marion School District until his retirement. John is in the Anthracite Football Hall of Fame, and is a member of board of directors for the Moon Lake Association, Barry Township. He was a well-known real estate agent in the Philadelphia area. He and his wife, Gloria, attended the Evangelical Methodist Church, Lavelle. He and his wife Gloria (Zeigenfuse) Lute, have been married 8 wonderful years. They spent all their time together watching football and baseball games. Preceding John in death was his first wife, Mary Jane Schrope Lute, and a sister Grace Bechtel, a brother William Lute.
Survivors
Wife: Gloria (Zeigenfuse) Lute
Son: Dann Lute and his wife Beth, Jacksonville, Fl.
Son: John Lute and his wife Sandy, Nicholls, N.Y.
Sister: Rose Varndell, Shamokin
Stepson: William and Heather Hurst,
Stepson: David and Kelly Hurst,
Many Grandchildren, Nieces and Nephews
Relative and friends are invited to attend a Celebration of John’s Life, Monday, July 14, 2025, at 11 AM, in the Lavelle Church of the Nazarene, 2879 Fairgrounds Road, Lavelle, PA. Officiating will be Gloria’s pastor Rev. Joshua Mowry, of the Evangelical Methodist Church, Lavelle, and Rev. Jeremy Smallwood, pastor of the Lavelle Church of the Nazarene. A viewing will be held Monday morning in the church, beginning at 9:30 AM until the funeral service. Memorials may be made to the Evangelical Methodist Church, 2875 Fairgrounds Road, Ashland, PA 17921. Visit www.Fritz FuneralHome.com to leave Condolences. The Richard W. Fritz Funeral Home, Ashland, is in charge of funeral arrangements.
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Lori was born in Pottsville, on April 19, 1966, she was a daughter of the late Vincent J. and Gloria Ann (Brown) Borinsky.
Loti graduated from Junction City High School, Junction City, Kansas. She was a devoted Christian and attended FaithAssembly of God Church in Cressona.
Lori is survived by spouse, Matthew Steele, two loving sons, Chris(Sam) Hardy, Havanna, Florida, and Josh (Lindsey) Hardy of Sparks, Georgia, her baby girl and caretaker, Hannah (Timothy) McDonald of Pottsville, PA, two stepdaughters, Laura and Karen Steele, and eight grandbabies, Lee McDonald, Logan McDonald, and Ezra-Ferron Hardy, Amiee Thomason, Madi McDonald, Kelsi Warren, Avya & Jayda, her uncle, Frank Brown and aunt, Cathy Brown.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in. death by her sister Victoria M. Borinsky-Robinson.
A viewing will be held on Sunday, July 13th from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM at Schlitzer Allen Pugh Funeral Home, 515 W. Market Street, Pottsville.
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Survivors
Wife: Gloria (Zeigenfuse) Lute
Son: Dann Lute and his wife Beth, Jacksonville, Fl.
Son: John Lute and his wife Sandy, Nicholls, N.Y.
Sister: Rose Varndell, Shamokin
Stepson: William and Heather Hurst,
Stepson: David and Kelly Hurst,
Many Grandchildren, Nieces and Nephews
Relative and friends are invited to attend a Celebration of John’s Life, Monday, July 14, 2025, at 11 AM, in the Lavelle Church of the Nazarene, 2879 Fairgrounds Road, Lavelle, PA. Officiating will be Gloria’s pastor Rev. Joshua Mowry, of the Evangelical Methodist Church, Lavelle, and Rev. Jeremy Smallwood, pastor of the Lavelle Church of the Nazarene. A viewing will be held Monday morning in the church, beginning at 9:30 AM until the funeral service. Memorials may be made to the Evangelical Methodist Church, 2875 Fairgrounds Road, Ashland, PA 17921. Visit www.Fritz FuneralHome.com to leave Condolences. The Richard W. Fritz Funeral Home, Ashland, is in charge of funeral arrangements.
Robert M. Doyne, Sr., 68, formerly of Jonestown, Cass twp., passed away Tuesday, July 8th, at Reading Hospital and Medical Center.
Robert was born in Pottsville, Pa. on January 7, 1957, a son of the late Marguerite (Scheibelhut) and Donald F. Doyne.
He was the widower of Janet (Dukmen) Doyne.
He was a member of Ss. Peter & Paul Byzantine Catholic Church Minersville. Robert was a Civil Engineer formerly employed by Benesch Engineering.
In addition to his parents and his wife, Janet, he was preceded in death by a sister, Jane Sunday.
Robert is survived by a son, Robert M. Jr., husband of Jody Doyne, a daughter, Jessica M, wife of Anthony Italiani He is also survived by his grandchildren, Lukas and Camryn Doyne. Also surviving is a brother Donald J. husband of Joanne Doyne.
All are respectfully invited to attend a Visitation from 8:30 to 10:00 AM on Tuesday, July 15th at Mahal-Ritzel Funeral Home Inc. in Minersville. An Office of Christian Burial will be celebrated 10:30 am at Ss. Peter & Paul Byzantine Catholic Church in Minersville, with Very Rev. James Carroll, OFM celebrant.
Interment at Ss. Peter & Paul Byzantine Catholic Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Ss. Peter & Paul Memorial Fund.
Mahal-Ritzel Funeral Home Inc., Minersville entrusted with the arrangements.
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These obituaries are being brought to by Mark J. Hummel Funeral Home, Frackville