Skook News Obituaries: August 6th, 2025
Obituaries published from the Schuylkill County area.
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Born on November 8, 1937 and raised in New Philadelphia, Leona was a daughter of the late Stanley & Anna (Grigalunas) Kubilus.
Married 60 years, she was the loving wife of Harry Semanchick.
Leona was a 1955 graduate of St. Stephen High School.
She worked as an office manager at the Reider Shoe Mfg. Co., Schuylkill Haven, PA.
Leona was a member of St. Ambrose Roman Catholic Church, Schuylkill Haven. She was a member of the Lithuanian Women’s Club, and was the coordinator of the annual Grigalunas family reunion.
In addition to her husband Harry, Leona is survived by five children: Anne Pruznak & husband, David, York Haven, PA, Olga Blouch & husband, Todd, Palmyra, PA, Gregory Semanchick, Pottsville, PA, Stanley Semanchick & wife, Laura, MD, and John Semanchick, VA, and five grandchildren: Alexander, Nicholas, Victoria, Juliette, and Gianna. She is also survived by her sister Rose Lipsett, Orwigsburg, PA, and nieces and nephews.
In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her siblings: Frances Daskus, Sister Alberta Kubilus, and Dorothy Calvello.
A viewing will be held for family and friends at St. Ambrose Roman Catholic Church, 201 Randel Street, Schuylkill Haven, PA 17972 from 9:15-10:00 AM on Tuesday, August 12th, followed by mass from 10:30 - 11:30 a.m. The interment at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery, Annville, will be held privately for immediate family only.
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Joyce was born in Roaring Spring, Blair County, PA on June 22, 1942, a daughter of the late Walter Smith and Helen Snyder.
She worked locally as a waitress for the former Pottsville Club for 22 years, then went on to work for and retire from Avenues. Joyce was a collector of Elvis Presley memorabilia, along with a wide variety of other knick-knacks and dolls. She always enjoyed a good card game or bingo with her friends.
Joyce was a former member of St. John the Baptist Church in Pottsville.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Francis "Fritz" Gavaletz in 2022, and by a sister, Karen Donahue.
Surviving are her children, Francis Gavaletz and his wife Dale of Auburn; Mikaela Gavaletz, Pottsville and Joseph E. Gavaletz and his wife Monica of Pottsville.
Three grandchildren, Adam, Aaron and Katriona, six great grandchildren, Ava Jane Gavaletz-Smith, Maxwell Gavaletz, Scarlet Gavaletz, Benny Gavaletz, Nolan Gavaletz and Henry Gavaletz, along with nieces and nephews survive.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend a viewing on Tuesday, August 12th, 2025 from 9-11 AM at the Schlitzer Allen Pugh Funeral Home, 515 West Market Street, Pottsville. Joyce will be laid to rest at the Indiantown Gap National Cemetery in Annville following graveside services at 12:30 PM.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Hillside SPCA in Joyce's Memory.
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Born in Pottsville, PA on September 6, 1952, he was the son of the late Michael and Margaret (Jobery) Kalochie.
Bob was a graduate of Saint Clair High School, Class of 1970. He worked as a Janitor for the Saint Clair School District until retiring. He was a member of St. Mary's Byzantine Catholic Church in Saint Clair, the Mahanoy City Social Club, the former Independent Hose Company in Saint Clair, and Little League Coach for 5 years for Arnots. Bob loved playing the bass guitar and played in the PA Good Times Band for over 40 years. He also loved hunting, fishing, and tinkering around with odd jobs.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother Edward Kalochie and his wife Elizabeth and his band sister Bonnie DeAngelo.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother Edward Kalochie and his wife Elizabeth and his band sister Bonnie DeAngelo.
Bob is survived by his wife of 41 years, Jean Marie (Kerick) Kalochie; son Aaron Kalochie and his companion Sierra Bowers and her son Frederick Cicero III; his band brothers Michael Ulinitz and his wife Ann Rose, Joseph Boris and his wife Sueann, and Bonnie widow Ethel Koening and her wife Mel Bailey; surviving relatives: Carol and Robert Fenton and their daughter Carolyn, Michael (deceased) and Kathleen Kerick, along with their children Alexandra and Samantha. James and Ruth Ann Kerick. Russell Kerick and his children Titanna, Natasha and John. Nancy and John Houseknecht along with their children, Gunner and Garrett. Marybeth and Keith Sankus. In life there is one person who comes along that you meet that touches you in a way that never leaves you which was Bob. His infectious and unforgettable personality is one thing he will be remembered for in your mind heart and soul. As an amateur musician he enjoyed playing and was ever so humbled to accept praise for his talent. He put his heart and soul in playing and passing his talent on to his son. He was one of those husbands and father that anyone could ever wish to have.
Office of Christian Burial with Requiem Devine Liturgy will be held at St. Mary's Byzantine Catholic Church, Saint Clair on Saturday August 9th at 10AM, with Rev. Gregory Noga officiating. Relatives and Friends are invited to a viewing on Friday evening from 6-8PM with Panachida at 6:30PM and Saturday morning from 8:30-9:30AM at Robert A. Evans Jr. Funeral Home, Port Carbon. Interment will be held in the Schuylkill Memorial Park Cemetery, Schuylkill Haven.
Bob's family request donations to St. Mary's Byzantine Church Memorial Fund 131 South Morris Street Saint Clair, PA 17970.
Jane M. Frasch, 58, of Pottsville formerly Mount Carmel passed away Monday evening August 4th at her residence.
Rothermel-Heizenroth-Clark Funeral Services Inc / Kull-Heizenroth Funeral Home Inc has been entrusted with the arrangements.
Ann (Annie) L. Flannery died peacefully at her Shenandoah home in the loving arms of her devoted sister Mary and cousin, Ellen Selgrade on Tuesday August 5th.
Despite her decades-long battle with MS, Annie’s spirit never dimmed. Her warmth, wit, and unshakable positivity touched everyone who knew her. Affectionately known as the ‘Mayor of Shenny,’ she welcomed friends and visitors with open arms and a story to share.
Annie never missed a Penn State football game. Her weekday afternoons with Frisco and Felicia were a brief distraction from her true passion: QVC shopping.
From the moment of her diagnosis to her peaceful passing, Annie was blessed to have her sister Mary by her side every single day. More than sisters, they were lifelong roommates, best friends, and unwavering partners in every chapter of life. Their bond was something rare—a quiet, lifelong devotion built on love, laughter, and an unspoken understanding that only the closest of souls can share.
Annie will be lovingly remembered for the joy and laughter she brought into the lives of her nieces, nephews, and their children—each of whom was absolutely certain they were her favorite. Her playful spirit, warm hugs, and endless stories will be missed the most.
Annie was born in Shenandoah, the daughter of the late Thomas and Loretta Kleha Flannery. Her brother Tom and sister-in-law Johanna and sister-in-law Mary Catherine Flannery preceded her in death.
Annie graduated from Cardinal Brennan High School, Penn State (BS) and Bloomsburg University (MS). Annie was a certified Reading Specialist working in the Shenandoah parochial schools.
Annie is survived by her sister Mary with whom she lived, brothers Francis and Michael and brother John and his wife Maria. And her sister cousin Ellen Selgrade and husband Bo.
Annie is also survived by her adoring nieces and nephews and their children.
Thomas (Tip) Flannery
Megan and Pete Pierangeli with Lucia, Petey and Gabriel.
Maura and Alan Denenberg. Matthew and Caitlin Flannery with Patrick, Connor, Owen and Madelyn Loretta. Michael and Julie Flannery with Cami, Mac, and Frankie.
John and Morgan Flannery with Cora and Margot. Mary Grace and Stephen Gontzes with Cecilia and Zoe.
A visitation for family and friends will be held on Monday, August 11 from 8:30 to 10:30am at the Oravitz Home for Funerals, 40 N. Jardin St, Shenandoah. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11am in Divine Mercy Parish- Sacred Worship Site- St. Casimir’s and will be officiated by the Very Rev. James J. Koury. Burial will follow mass in the Annunciation BVM Cemetery, Shenandoah Heights.
Annie will be missed by her many neighbors, friends and Flannery and Kleha cousins.
The family would like to thank the many caregivers who assisted Mary and Annie over the years.
The family asks that in lieu of flowers you make a donation to the Father Walter Ciszek Chapel, ………. Father Walter was a cousin to Annie’s mom Loretta
Anthony Crockett, 56, of Mahanoy City, PA, passed away Monday, August 4th, peacefully, at his residence.
Anthony was born in Morgantown, WV on July 11, 1969, a son of the late Sharon Ambrose and Silas Crockett.
Anthony is survived by two sisters, Patricia Adeola, and husband Sam , a niece Erica Mooring ,and Nephew Eric Mooring Jr. of Mahanoy City; Nephew’s Justin Mitchell and Aaron Mitchell, neice Jayden Mitchell of Florida ,Melissia Crockett, of Havre De Grace MD., Kimberly Reed his significant other of 27 years, as well as aunt Pauline Mitts , uncle Wayne Mitts , cousins Julie Waddell, and George, James Pauley, and wife Abbie, as well as Logan and Liam , and Uncle Charles Blake.
He is also preceded in death by Grandmother Dessie Mae Crockett (Peach).
Anthony Crockett (aka Tony) had a heart of gold, always willing to lend a hand whenever he seen someone in need! Aunt Pauline wanted me to add she loves Tony so much and will be missed by us all.
Services are private.
Louis D. Truskowsky Funeral Home & Crematory Inc. Mahanoy City is in charge of arrangements. Visit www.truskowskyfuneralhome.com to sign the guest book and send sympathy cards.
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Rothermel-Heizenroth-Clark Funeral Services Inc / Kull-Heizenroth Funeral Home Inc has been entrusted with the arrangements.
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Despite her decades-long battle with MS, Annie’s spirit never dimmed. Her warmth, wit, and unshakable positivity touched everyone who knew her. Affectionately known as the ‘Mayor of Shenny,’ she welcomed friends and visitors with open arms and a story to share.
Annie never missed a Penn State football game. Her weekday afternoons with Frisco and Felicia were a brief distraction from her true passion: QVC shopping.
From the moment of her diagnosis to her peaceful passing, Annie was blessed to have her sister Mary by her side every single day. More than sisters, they were lifelong roommates, best friends, and unwavering partners in every chapter of life. Their bond was something rare—a quiet, lifelong devotion built on love, laughter, and an unspoken understanding that only the closest of souls can share.
Annie will be lovingly remembered for the joy and laughter she brought into the lives of her nieces, nephews, and their children—each of whom was absolutely certain they were her favorite. Her playful spirit, warm hugs, and endless stories will be missed the most.
Annie was born in Shenandoah, the daughter of the late Thomas and Loretta Kleha Flannery. Her brother Tom and sister-in-law Johanna and sister-in-law Mary Catherine Flannery preceded her in death.
Annie graduated from Cardinal Brennan High School, Penn State (BS) and Bloomsburg University (MS). Annie was a certified Reading Specialist working in the Shenandoah parochial schools.
Annie is survived by her sister Mary with whom she lived, brothers Francis and Michael and brother John and his wife Maria. And her sister cousin Ellen Selgrade and husband Bo.
Annie is also survived by her adoring nieces and nephews and their children.
Thomas (Tip) Flannery
Megan and Pete Pierangeli with Lucia, Petey and Gabriel.
Maura and Alan Denenberg. Matthew and Caitlin Flannery with Patrick, Connor, Owen and Madelyn Loretta. Michael and Julie Flannery with Cami, Mac, and Frankie.
John and Morgan Flannery with Cora and Margot. Mary Grace and Stephen Gontzes with Cecilia and Zoe.
A visitation for family and friends will be held on Monday, August 11 from 8:30 to 10:30am at the Oravitz Home for Funerals, 40 N. Jardin St, Shenandoah. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11am in Divine Mercy Parish- Sacred Worship Site- St. Casimir’s and will be officiated by the Very Rev. James J. Koury. Burial will follow mass in the Annunciation BVM Cemetery, Shenandoah Heights.
Annie will be missed by her many neighbors, friends and Flannery and Kleha cousins.
The family would like to thank the many caregivers who assisted Mary and Annie over the years.
The family asks that in lieu of flowers you make a donation to the Father Walter Ciszek Chapel, ………. Father Walter was a cousin to Annie’s mom Loretta
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Anthony was born in Morgantown, WV on July 11, 1969, a son of the late Sharon Ambrose and Silas Crockett.
Anthony is survived by two sisters, Patricia Adeola, and husband Sam , a niece Erica Mooring ,and Nephew Eric Mooring Jr. of Mahanoy City; Nephew’s Justin Mitchell and Aaron Mitchell, neice Jayden Mitchell of Florida ,Melissia Crockett, of Havre De Grace MD., Kimberly Reed his significant other of 27 years, as well as aunt Pauline Mitts , uncle Wayne Mitts , cousins Julie Waddell, and George, James Pauley, and wife Abbie, as well as Logan and Liam , and Uncle Charles Blake.
He is also preceded in death by Grandmother Dessie Mae Crockett (Peach).
Anthony Crockett (aka Tony) had a heart of gold, always willing to lend a hand whenever he seen someone in need! Aunt Pauline wanted me to add she loves Tony so much and will be missed by us all.
Services are private.
Louis D. Truskowsky Funeral Home & Crematory Inc. Mahanoy City is in charge of arrangements. Visit www.truskowskyfuneralhome.com to sign the guest book and send sympathy cards.
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These obituaries are being brought to by Mark J. Hummel Funeral Home, Frackville
