Skook News Obituaries: August 16th, 2026
Obituaries published from the Schuylkill County area.
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Bruce was the beloved son of Terry A. Houser and the late Terry B. Houser. He was a devoted father to his son, Logan A. Houser, whom he cherished deeply. Bruce also shared a special bond with his niece, Matilyn T. Houser, whom he loved as if she were his own daughter. He is remembered fondly by his extended family, including numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and many friends.
From an early age, Bruce developed a passion for sports that would remain with him throughout his life. As a young boy growing up in Minersville, he participated in wrestling and baseball under the guidance of his father, who coached him with dedication and pride. Bruce also played basketball during his school years and excelled as an athlete.
One of Bruce’s fondest memories was attending Big Diamond Speedway with his brother Matthew L. Houser to cheer on their favorite driver, Terry “Tyrone” Houser. The thrill of racing became a lifelong love for Bruce and later extended to supporting Billy Pauch Jr., his favorite race car driver.
In adulthood, Bruce carried forward his love for sports by coaching his son Logan in baseball—a role he embraced wholeheartedly. He also enjoyed pitching for Yockos’ baseball team and remained an avid supporter of the Philadelphia Eagles football team and Notre Dame.
Bruce’s life was marked by deep connections to family and community. He was predeceased by several cherished family members: his father, Terry B. Houser; brother, Matthew L. Houser; grandparents, Luther Houser and June Evitts; and grandparents, Robert Stonelake and Gloria Stonelake.
Though gone too soon, Bruce leaves behind a legacy of love for family and sportsmanship that will be remembered by all who knew him. May his memory bring comfort to those who mourn his passing.
A visitation will be held on August 26, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Phoenix Park Union Church, 2159 Main St.
A memorial service will be held on August 26, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Phoenix Park Union Church, 2159 Main St.
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Mahal-Ritzel Funeral Home, Minersville in charge of the arrangements.
Barry Ford, Jr., age 53, a resident of Frackville, passed away on August 10, 2026, at the Lehigh Valley Cedar Crest Hospital in Allentown.
Barry was born in Pottsville on December 15, 1972, a son of the late Barry and Donna (Schuetrum) Ford.
He attended and was a 1992 graduate of the Shenandoah Valley high School. Barry was a Philadelphia Eagles football fan and was also an avid video gamer player.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
In addition to his long time companion, Jen Wise of Frackville, Barry is survived by his sister, Audra, wife of John Kanute of Ringtown, and their two sons, Kevin and Conner.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend a viewing from 5-7 PM on Wednesday evening, August 19th, 2026 at the Stauffer-Breznik Funeral Home, 412 West Main Street, Ringtown.
Barry will be laid to rest alongside his parent at the Odd Fellows Cemetery in Shenandoah Heights during private services.
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Barry was born in Pottsville on December 15, 1972, a son of the late Barry and Donna (Schuetrum) Ford.
He attended and was a 1992 graduate of the Shenandoah Valley high School. Barry was a Philadelphia Eagles football fan and was also an avid video gamer player.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
In addition to his long time companion, Jen Wise of Frackville, Barry is survived by his sister, Audra, wife of John Kanute of Ringtown, and their two sons, Kevin and Conner.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend a viewing from 5-7 PM on Wednesday evening, August 19th, 2026 at the Stauffer-Breznik Funeral Home, 412 West Main Street, Ringtown.
Barry will be laid to rest alongside his parent at the Odd Fellows Cemetery in Shenandoah Heights during private services.
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Obituaries from the past 7 Days
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These obituaries are being brought to by Mark J. Hummel Funeral Home, Frackville
