Monday, March 9, 2026

Schuylkill County Obituaries for March 9th, 2026

                                                                  Skook News Obituaries

Skook News Obituaries:  March 9th, 2026

Obituaries published from the Schuylkill County area.

Click here to sign up to receive a daily obituary notification from Skook News directly to your inbox.

---------------------------------------------------

Paul E. (Beepo) Moyer
, age 85, of Tamaqua, passed away peacefully on March 4, 2026, at the Orwigsburg Center.

He was the devoted husband of the late Jacqueline Moyer. Born in Coaldale, Pennsylvania, Paul was the cherished son of the late Robert H. and Irene (Sincavage) Moyer. After graduating from Tamaqua High School, Paul served proudly in the United States Navy. He went on to work until retirement at Hart Metals. Paul is survived by the wife of his late brother Robert W., Dolores (Lehotta) Moyer; his nephew, Robert Moyer; his niece Deborah (Moyer) Powers; a great-niece and great- nephew, all residing in Florida.

In accordance with his family's wishes, services will be private.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the E. Franklin Griffiths Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc., located at 655 East Broad Street, Tamaqua, Pennsylvania.

---------------------------------------------------

Michael A. “Mick” Maliniak
, 85, of Pottsville passed away Saturday, March 7th, at Schuylkill Center, Pottsville.

Mick was born in Shamokin on December 3, 1940, a son of the late Michael & Rella (Thompson) Maliniak.

Married 64 years, he was the husband of Jean M. (Martz) Maliniak, who preceded him in death January 21, 2026.

He is also preceded in death by his sister, Harriet “Pepe” Akalaits.

Mick was a very active member of United Presbyterian Church, Pottsville where he sang in the choir. He also performed maintenance and cared for the church.

He was a graduate of Shamokin High School – Class of 1958 and earned his bachelor’s degree from Temple University School of Pharmacy in 1962.

He worked for Rite Aid Pharmacy in Pottsville for 35 Years.

Mick was a skilled woodworker and devoted fisherman. His grandchildren & great-grandchildren were his pride and joy.

He is survived by two children: Debra Logothetides, wife of George, Pottsville, & M. John Maliniak, husband of Clare, Newport News, VA, grandchildren: Gregory Maliniak, husband of Amanda, Allison Martin, wife of Trey, Nicholas Maliniak, husband of Lindsey, Michael Logothetides, Jack Logothetides, Mary Logothetides, wife of Mark, & Savas Logothetides, and great-grandchildren: Clyde Martin, Reid Martin, Cleo Logothetides, Ty Francis Maliniak, Payton Maliniak, & Madison Maliniak.

Mick & Jean’s combined Celebration of Life memorial service will be held at 1 PM on Saturday, April 4th at United Presbyterian Church, Pottsville with Pastor Hugh Vrablic officiating. A Visitation will be held from 12 Noon until the time of service.

Interment will be privately held at the family’s convenience.

The family prefers remembrances in the form on contributions to United Presbyterian Church, 214 Mahantongo St., Pottsville, PA 17901.

Extend online condolences by visiting www.gsesfuneralhomes.com.

Geschwindt Stabingas Ebling Funeral Home, Inc., Schuylkill Haven, has been entrusted with arrangements.

---------------------------------------------------

Sylvina C. Reaves, 91, of Pottsville, passed away Thursday, March 5th, at her residence.

Born in Antigua, on November 12, 1934, a daughter of the late Adrianna (Merchant) and Arthur M. Gonsalves.

She was the widow of Preston Alfred Reaves, who passed away in 1987.

She was a graduate of high school in Antigua and then graduated from the Washington Business Institute in New York and did cosmetology. She worked for the Schuylkill County Area on Aging and the former Leader Nursing Home, Pottsville as a chef.

In addition to her husband, she is preceded in death by her sister Milicent Roberts and her brother Rupert Roberts.

Sylvina is survived by her daughters Carrie Lucy Gonsalves and Sharon Janice Hunter, both of Pottsville; grandchildren Chelsea Remah Gonsalves, Milan Syline Hunter, Anthony Joe Hunter, Jr.; siblings George Gonsalves, Antigua and Alphonso Gonsalves, Canada.

A Celebration of Life Funeral Service will be held at 11 am on Saturday, March 14th at Lord Ebling Haus Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc. in Pottsville, PA.

A viewing for family and friends will be held from 10am until the time of the service at the funeral home.

Interment will follow at Schuylkill Memorial Park, Schuylkill Haven.

To extend condolences to the family, visit www.gsesfuneralhomes.com

Lord Ebling Haus Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., Pottsville has been entrusted with the arrangements.

---------------------------------------------------

Madeline C. "Tootie" Welsh
, 87, of Pottsville, died Friday night at Lehigh Valley Hospital-Cedar Crest in Allentown.

She was born on September 21, 1938, in Pottsville, she was the daughter of the late William and Thelma Shay Boyer

She was a 1956 graduate of Pottsville High School.

She was a Notary Public for Attorney Kachmar and later worked for Centre Square Dress Shop, until retirement.

Tootie was a member of United Presbyterian Church, Pottsville and the Coal Crackin' Red Hats.

She was a woman whose gentle spirit and boundless compassion touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. Kindness flowed naturally from her---whether through a comforting word, a thoughtful gesture, or the simple way she made others feel seen and cherished. Selfless in all that she did, she gave freely of her time, her energy, and her heart, always placing the needs of others before her own. Nothing was ever too much trouble for her; lifting others up brought her genuine joy. Her warmth, generosity, and unwavering care created a sense of belonging wherever she went, and her legacy of love will continue to shine in the lives she so profoundly blessed.

She is survived by her loving husband, Edward C. Welsh, Jr.; her daughter, Dr. Elizabeth Robison and her husband Chris, Pottsville; her son, Edward C. Welsh, III, and his companion Lisa Zvorsky, Pottsville; 4 grandchildren, Mitchell and Nathan Robison, Mason and Nicholas Schafer, as well as her four great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews.

Funeral Service will be held Friday at 11AM from the James E. Humphrey Funeral Home, Pottsville. Family and friends are invited to viewing from 9AM until the time of services. Interment will follow at Calvary Cemetery, Pottsville. The family would prefer remembrances in the form of contributions in memory of Tootie be made to Pottsville Free Public Library, 215 W. Market St., Pottsville, PA 17901 or Pottsville Salvation Army, 400 Sanderson St. Pottsville, PA 17901.

---------------------------------------------------

Margaret M. Soult
, age 76, of the village of Trenton and formerly of Barnesville, passed away Friday MAR 6, 2026 at Lehigh Valley Hospital in Muhlenberg. 

Born at the former Locust Mountain Hospital she was the daughter of the late Cyril and Rita (Idason) Kurfovich. She was a 1967 graduate of Mahanoy Area High School and retired from J.E. Morgan Knitting Mills in Hometown where she had been employed as a supervisor in the packing department.. She was a member of St. Richard's Church in Barnesville. 

She was preceded in death by her husband of 51 years Gene W. Soult in 2022.

She is survived by a son Matthew Soult and 2 daughters Jessica Soult and Krista Evans, a brother Gerald Kufrovich, grandchildren Mason and Maura Soult and Witten and Wyatt Evans as well as nieces and nephews. 

Relatives and friends are invited to a visitation to be held on Thursday eveving from 6-8 PM at David D. Jarrett Funeral Home of Mahanoy City.

A religious service will be conducted at 7 PM with Deacon Edward J. Girard officiating. Interment will be privately held at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery in Annville..

---------------------------------------------------

Ralph Howard Shoup
, 83, a resident of the Catawissa Valley, went to be with the Lord on March 6th, 2026, while a patient at the Geisinger Medical Center in Danville.

Ralph was born on the Shoup family farm in Ringtown on September 9th, 1942, the third son of the late Howard and Sarah (Lindenmuth) Shoup. He graduated from the former Ringtown High School in 1960, and joined his father in the family timber and farming business.

On April 7, 1968, Ralph married his loving wife, Charlene L. (Miller) Shoup. He devoted his life to his family, church, community and farming. When he was not bailing hay or parking cars at Knoebel's, he enjoyed his children and grandchildren's sports and activities.

Ralph was a lifelong member of St. John's Lutheran Church in Ringtown and a longtime member of the Valley Chemical Fire Company in Numidia, where he served as Chief of the Fire Police for over 30 years.

In Heaven, he will be joining his parents and three brothers, Ray, Roy and Roger along with his loving wife, Charlene.

Ralph will be greatly missed by his two daughters, Clarissa Jane of Ringtown and Scarlet Rae and Frank Weaver of Danville. Four grandchildren, Mason and Kelin Geary and Frank Jr.and Alexis Weaver, also survive, along with many close family and friends.

A funeral service will be held at St. John's Lutheran Church. 106 West Main Street in Ringtown at 11 AM on Tuesday, March 17th, 2026. Relatives and friends are asked to meet promptly at 11 AM, as there will be no visitation prior to the service.

Ralph and his wife Charlene will both be laid to rest at the Kulp Cemetery, 1395 Old Reading Road, Catawissa, following the service.

In lieu of flowers, Memorial contributions are asked to be made in memory of Ralph to either St. John's Lutheran Church, Capital Campaign, 106 West Main Street, Ringtown PA 17967 or to the Valley Chemical Fire Company, PO Box 42, Numidia, Pa. 17858.

The Stauffer-Breznik Funeral Home, Inc., is honored to assist Ralph's family during thier time of need.

---------------------------------------------------

E. Elaine Stone
, 82, of Ashland, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 7th, at Providence Place in Pottsville. 

Born in Coal Township on July 31, 1943, Elaine was the devoted daughter of the late Ben and Ruth (Bensinger) Stone. Elaine dedicated much of her life to caring for others, often acting as the chauffeur for her large circle of friends. Whether accompanying them on shopping trips, to veterinary or doctor appointments, or on their weekly excursions, Elaine was always ready to lend a hand. Her generosity and willingness to help made her a cherished companion. A passionate games enthusiast, Elaine found joy in trips to the casino and card nights at the Keeners, where her competitive spirit shone. She delighted in these moments, creating lasting memories with those around them. She would often go to Atlantic City with her sister Sylvia, their mother, and occasionally cousin Betty Lou Herb. Elaine was a proud graduate of Ashland Area High School, Class of 1961, and served as Treasurer of her reunion group. She played an integral role in organizing celebrations and ensuring classmates remained connected over the years. 

Elaine devoted 42 years of service to the Ashland State Hospital as a Fiscal Clerk, where her warm personality and genuine concern for others left a lasting impression on both families and colleagues. Her many enthusiastic trips to the Mount Carmel Area Public Library with her niece Karen were invaluable in helping her other niece, Cindy, to construct the family tree. Hours in front of a microfiche and printer pieced together the lives of her Camp, Shoemaker and Stone ancestors in the area. She enjoyed learning about them and kept a special file of all the research papers and photos pertaining to her line. Her faith was the cornerstone of her life. For over 70 years, Elaine was an active member of the United Methodist Presbyterian Church in Ashland. She contributed as a lecturer, choir member, and longtime Treasurer of the Ladies Society, demonstrating unwavering commitment to her church family. Additionally, Elaine was a dedicated member of the Ashland Area Rotary, serving in both President and Treasurer roles. Her leadership and service enriched the community and inspired those who worked alongside them. 

In addition to her parents, Elaine was preceded in death by her beloved fiancĂ©e, Daniel Perrin, sister Sylvia (Baum), brother-in-law Jerry Baum, and her niece, Karen Baum. 

She is survived by her loving niece, Cindy Boyko, and her husband, Johnny, as well as several cousins. 

Elaine’s most cherished friend and partner in adventures, Kay Ellen Kuchinsky, also mourns her loss, along with countless friends, her close-knit church family, and her feline companions, “Rusty” and “Tiger.” 

Relatives and friends are invited to attend Elaine’s viewing/ memorial service at the United Methodist Presbyterian Church in Ashland at 11 a.m. on Saturday, March 28th, with the Pastor Hugh Vrablick/ David Heberling officiating. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Elaine’s name to the United Methodist Presbyterian Church at 200 North 9th Street, Ashland, Pa 17921 Elaine’s memory will live on in all who knew and loved her. The family invites you to share your memories and stories, joining in celebration of a life so generously shared with others. Condolences can be submitted to www.Fritzfuneralhome.com. 

 The Richard W. Fritz Funeral Home, Ashland, is in charge of arrangements.

---------------------------------------------------

Steven Aaron Leary
, 40 years of age of West Penn Township Andreas, Pennsylvania passed away suddenly on Sunday, March 8, 2026, upon arrival at Lehigh Valley Hospital Lehighton, Pennsylvania.

Born Wednesday, March 27, 1985 in Allentown, Pennsylvania, he is survived by; parents, John Leary and Karen (Harter) Leary; beloved wife; Nicole (Serina) Leary; sons, Michael Leary and his wife Jessica, Dylan Leary; daughters, Haley Eberts wife of Cole, Alyssa Leary; brothers, John Leary, III, sister, Christine Knepper wife of Chris; grandchildren, Ariella and Rowan Eberts.

Steve's life was defined by tireless work ethic, service to his county serving in the United States Army and his devotion to his family as a beloved husband, father and doting grand-pa, son and brother. Steve worked as a freight car repairman for Norfolk Southern Railroad. He enjoyed restoring his Plymouth Fury and working around his home.

Steve was beyond proud of his children and grandchildren and excited for his son to be welcoming a son to carry on the Leary name

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Robert S. Nester Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc. of 2066 West Penn Pike New Ringgold Pennsylvania 17960. (570) 386-5884

A Celebration of Steve's Life will be held on Friday evening March 13, 2026 at 6 o'clock P.M. from the funeral home. Friends and family may call from 4:30 P.M. until the time of services.

---------------------------------------------------

Andrew J. Marx
, 66, of Tamaqua, passed away peacefully at home on March 6, 2026, surrounded by the family he loved so dearly.

Born in Pottsville on April 16, 1959, Andy was the son of the late Charles and Theresa (VisGarda) Marx. He was a 1977 graduate of Pottsville High School and retired from Pretium Packaging in Hazleton. Outside of work, Andy was happiest with a fishing rod in his hand or in the kitchen, where he was known for his excellent cooking. He also enjoyed watching his grandchildren and great-grandchildren participate in their various sports and activities.

Andy was also predeceased by; his beloved wife, Helene A. (Lutz) Smith - Marx; son, Nicholas Smith; sisters, Bonnie and Sandra Marx; brother, Edward Marx.

Surviving are; Samantha J. Dasch and her husband Brian, Danielle M. Smith and her companion John Hauck, Abigail Mills; son, Andrew J. Marx, Jr.; brothers, Charles Marx, Michael Marx and his wife Debbi, Richard Marx and his wife Sherri; sisters, Donna McGrath, Rose Adams wife of Donald; grandchildren, Emily A.J. Dasch, Robert H. Smith, Laura C. Smith, Courtney DeAngelo, Michael Ellington, Joshua Ney, Howard Beury and his wife Cassidy, Nathaniel Dasch, Liam Dasch, Meagan Dasch - Yost wife of Kevin; great grandchildren, Alexis, Makenna, Jacob, Colton, Brynlee, Harper, Eliza, and Nathan.

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 Celebration of Andy's Life will be held on Friday March 13, 2026 at 11 o'clock A.M. from the funeral home. Friends and family may call from 9:30 A.M. until the time of services.

Interment will be in St. Jerome R.C.C. Cemetery, Tamaqua, Pennsylvania.

---------------------------------------------------

Alexis G. “Alex” Crochunis
, 48, of Andreas, passed away on Sunday, March 8, 2026, at his residence. He was the life partner of Amanda Sanko, with whom he enjoyed eighteen years of companionship.

Born in California, Alex was a son of Mary Ann (Hoffecker) Nester and the late Gregory Joseph Crochunis. He graduated from Pottsville Area High School in 1996 and worked variously as a laborer and truck driver, most recently for Bedway Produce Co. Raised in the Catholic faith, Alex attended both the Church of St. Patrick and the former St. Joseph Roman Catholic Church in Pottsville. A good father, son, and life partner, Alex was a huge fan of the Philadelphia Eagles, Flyers, Phillies, and 76ers. He enjoyed collecting sports cards and was passionate about music, especially heavy metal.

Alex is survived by his life partner, Amanda Sanko age 40, of Andreas; two children, Gregory age 15, and Emma Crochunis age 7; his mother, Mary Ann Nester and her husband, Paul, of Auburn; and a brother, Peter Crochunis, of Sunbury. He was predeceased by his father, Gregory J. Crochunis, who died in 1995.

Services will be private at the convenience of the family.

Memorial donations in Alex’s name may be made to the Make-A-Wish Foundation at wish.org.

Online condolences may be made at www.zgfuneralhome.com. Arrangements are entrusted to the Zizelmann-Gulla Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc., Tamaqua.

---------------------------------------------------

Joyce M. Panak
, 90, of Minersville, passed away unexpectedly at St. Luke’s Hospital. Orwigsburg on February 28.

Born in Hechersville, she was the daughter of the late Jack and Grace Hoppes Mulhall.

She was a graduate of the former Cass Twp. High School and attended St. Kieran’s Catholic Grade school. She was a member of Holy Family Parish, St. Michael’s Church, Minersville and the historical St. Kieran’s Roman Catholic Church, Hechchersville.

Joyce was a devout Catholic and was selfless and sacrificed for her family. For almost 35 years she could be seen every Friday night at Big Diamond Raceway working the concession stand. Joyce and her husband spent many weekends relaxing with family and friends at Mountain Springs Campground. They also enjoyed going to dinner after Church services on Saturday. Joyce loved country music and could be found at Ontelunee Park on Sundays with her husband and their 4 children back in the 60’s and 70’s.

Fasnacht Day was a special day making white powdered doughnuts for her family and neighbors. Her cooking specialty was making halupkies at least 200 at a time so there was plenty to share with relatives.

Her loving daughter Linda lived with her after the passing of her husband and provided a comfortable life for Joyce until the day of her passing.

She was preceded in death by her husband Stephen in 2014; a son Stephen in 2008; 2 brothers Jack Mulhall and Robert Mulhall and a sister Catherine Lysek.

She is survived by a daughter, Linda ; 2 sons David and Michael and his wife Joanne, 4 grandchildren Brianne, Samantha, Ryan and Desiree; 2 sisters Peggy Ann Bassinsky and Diane Nash; a sister-in-law Maryanne Mulhall and her 4 legged friend Lindsay.

Mass of Christian Burial will be Wednesday March 11at 10:30 AM in St. Michael’s Church, Minersville. Relatives and friends can call at the Donald Butler Funeral Home on Wednesday from 8:30 to 10AM.

In lieu of flowers, the family would prefer remembrances as contributions to the Hillside SPCA. 51 SPCA Drive, Pottsville. Contributions will also be accepted at the Funeral Home.

All are invited for food and drink afterwards at the Blu Tavern, Pottsville @ 12Noon.

To pay condolences to the family or to purchase a candle or tree in Joyce’s memory, visit us at www.donaldjbutlerfh.com.

---------------------------------------------------

Jeffrey L. Kropp
, 67, of Tamaqua, passed away Friday, March 6, 2026, peacefully in his home, surrounded by his loved ones. He was the husband of Wanda L. (Miller) Kropp. They were married on September 13, 1980, and celebrated 45 years of marriage. Jeff was the Modification Center Manager at Trans Edge Truck Center, a.k.a. Allentown Mack for over 25 years. Prior he was employed as a master welder at Spec Tec, St. Clair, and Summit Trailers, Summit Station. Born in Coaldale, he was the son of the late Stanley E. Sr. and Dorothy S. (Smith) Kropp. Jeff had a strong faith, and he was a member of Primitive Methodist Church, Tamaqua. He loved his family and animals, and he enjoyed taking his son fishing. He was an avid drag racing spectator, and he owned and operated a Dodge Charger Funny Car at Maple Grove Raceway. His wife, Wanda, and son, Jacob, describe Jeff as, “One of the best men to ever live.” An intelligent and quiet soul, Jeff will be remembered as an amazing husband and incredible father. Throughout his life he was an avid outdoorsman, always wanting to retreat into nature. Jeff is described as always being present and willing to help at the drop of a hat.

Nicknamed “MacGyver” by his coworkers and friends, he was renowned as being able to fix almost anything. Aside from his vast expertise, he was an avid collector of Hot Wheels and a skilled model car enthusiast.

He will be deeply missed by everyone who was a part of his life. Jeff was also preceded in death by three brothers, Rev. George P., John E. and Stanley E. Jr.; and mother-in-law, Shirley O. Miller. Surviving in addition to his wife, Wanda, are his son, Jacob, and his companion Amber, of Conyngham Valley; brother, Herbert J., and his wife Kathleen, of Tamaqua; sister, Remel A. Durilla; father-in-law, Donald C. Miller; and nieces and nephews.

A memorial visitation will be held from 5-7pm on Friday, March 13, at the Hartman Funeral Home, 1791 West Penn Pike, Rte. 309, New Ringgold, PA 17960.

Arrangements are being handled by the Hartman Funeral Home, 1791 West Penn Pike, Rte. 309, New Ringgold, PA 17960.

---------------------------------------------------


Obituaries from the past 7 Days