Skook News Obituaries: August 17th, 2026
Obituaries published from the Schuylkill County area.
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Mr. Urban was born at home on October 31, 1935, in a Lithuanian neighborhood of Mahanoy City, Pennsylvania, to Anthony J. Urban, a coal miner, and Kathryn Marion Walinchus. He was the youngest of three children, following his two beloved sisters, Lois and Irene, both of whom predeceased him. As were the times, finances were strained, and the family was compelled to accept three boarders into their home to make ends meet. He spoke Lithuanian, attended St. Joseph’s School, and graduated from Mahanoy City High School in 1953, where he lettered in basketball.
Mr. Urban attended Penn State University Park campus, graduating in 1957 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering. He then attended Temple University School of Law while simultaneously teaching in the Philadelphia public school system, receiving his law degree in 1961. After law school, he continued his graduate studies and worked at the Temple University Unit in Law & Psychiatry.
In 1962, Mr. Urban was admitted to practice before the Pennsylvania Superior and Supreme Courts and the United States District Courts. He returned to Mahanoy City and began a wide-ranging legal career spanning more than six decades. What began as a one-year clerkship under President Judge Curran, Mr. Urban’s preceptor and mentor persuasively extended to four years. In 1962, he was appointed to his first murder trial, and in 1965, he was appointed a United States Commissioner.
He served as a public defender for nearly five decades and facilitated the unionization of that office in 1968. He was admitted to practice before the United States Supreme Court in 1995 and tried scores upon scores of criminal and civil jury trials to verdict. He was among only seven attorneys in Pennsylvania and 25 nationally to hold dual board certifications as both a civil and criminal trial advocate through the National Board of Trial Advocacy. He also served as a hearing committee chairman of the Pennsylvania Disciplinary Board.
In the mid-1990s, he returned to Temple Law School as an adjunct professor in the LL.M. Trial Advocacy program. Teaching and mentoring young lawyers became one of the great pleasures of his professional life. He coached aspiring lawyers in mock trial competitions and guided newly licensed attorneys as they learned to build and prove their cases.
Mr. Urban was also Assistant General Counsel to Reading Anthracite for three decades and General Counsel to Service Electric for nearly 40 years. He founded the Law Offices of Anthony Urban, P.C., which continues today under the leadership of his two oldest sons.
Although he handled a wide variety of legal matters, Mr. Urban especially enjoyed fighting for justice and protecting the rights of the injured and disadvantaged. He never forgot that the files on his office desk represented more than just papers—they represented a person or a family in need. That belief shaped both his legal career and the way he lived his life.
His interests extended far beyond the law. Mr. Urban was a licensed real estate broker and served as President of Holden Insurance Company in St. Clair and Schuylkill Realty, Inc., in Ashland. He was a director of the former Schuylkill Savings and Loan of Ashland and Schuylkill Haven. He owned the Brewers Outlet in the Kings Plaza, Minersville, and “Carduff’s” Service Station in Ashland for more than 30 years.
He was passionate about education and never lost touch with where he came from. Through the Urban Scholarship Fund, which he established, he awarded hundreds of thousands of dollars over the years to graduates of Mahanoy Area High School to further their university studies based upon merit and need. He also received the Pennsylvania Governor’s Highway Safety Award for his self-financed billboard campaign against drunk driving.
But those who knew Mr. Urban best will remember far more than his professional accomplishments.
Born on Halloween, October 31 was never simply his birthday. He was notorious for going “all-out” on Halloween. He was an avid reader of virtually every genre and, even near the end of his life, retained the astonishing ability to recite poetry and passages he had read 70 years earlier in college. He earned his private pilot’s license in 1965. He traveled extensively throughout the world and, as a self-taught and talented painter, captured in his artwork the people and places that moved him during those travels.
He loved listening to laughter and seeing others enjoy themselves. He loved sitting down with people and hearing about their experiences. If asked, he would freely offer his wisdom and sage advice. He helped countless people through difficult times, often quietly and without seeking recognition.
He was a lifelong, and often exasperated, Penn State Nittany Lions fan, and he faithfully rooted for the Phillies through their ups and downs. He liked antique clocks and watches. He loved sunflowers, oysters, and cocktails. He could talk about nearly anything, and he had a way of making people feel that their story was worth hearing.
Most of all, he loved his family with all of his heart. He was generous with his time, his talents, and his treasure, and those gifts were not reserved for any particular part of his life. He gave them freely to his children and grandchildren, to his friends, to his clients, and to people who simply needed someone to listen.
Mr. Urban was preceded in death by his parents and sisters and by the love of his life, Susan Irene, née Smeigh. He first met Susan when she was his attending nurse after he awoke from surgery. Their meeting marked the beginning of a lifelong love and partnership.
He is survived by his three sons, Anthony James Urban, Esquire, and Brian Joseph Urban, Esquire (Lynn Babbitt, MSPT), both of Butler Township, and Christopher Jonathan Urban, Esquire (Joseph Sena, Esquire), of Media, Pennsylvania; his daughter, Kathryn Suzanne (William) Duggan, OTR/L, of St. Augustine, Florida; and his six grandchildren, Wesley, Adelaide, Henry, Teagan, Rory, and Quinn. He is also survived by nieces and nephews, cousins, and his godson, Timothy (Megan) Demko of Frackville.
The family is eternally grateful to the many helpers, care workers, and prayer warriors who allowed Mr. Urban to remain independent and who, over time, became like family to him.
Mr. Urban was a lifelong Roman Catholic who remained fearlessly faithful and focused on his Lord and Savior. He was a member of the former St. Joseph’s Church in Mahanoy City, St. Charles Borromeo in Ashland, and, most recently, St. Thomas More in Sarasota.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Louis D. Truskowsky Funeral Home & Crematory Inc. of Mahanoy City, Pennsylvania. A private Catholic funeral Mass was held on the morning of Monday, August 17, with Fr. Christopher M. Zelonis of St. Charles Borromeo Church, presiding. The family will celebrate his life with a public Mass in Fall 2026.
Mr. Urban spent his life trying to make the world a better place through his work, his generosity, his advocacy, his faith, and the simple act of giving his time to others. In keeping with that spirit, the family respectfully asks that, in his memory and in lieu of flowers, you perform an act of kindness, spend time with someone you love, or share your time, talent, or treasure with a cause meaningful to you. Listen to laughter, be considerate, marvel at the sunflowers, and enjoy some oysters and a cocktail with friends.For those who still wish to make a donation in his memory, the family requests that consideration be given to the Schuylkill County Bar Association Scholarship Fund, which supports the education and development of young, local lawyers.
Visit www.truskowskyfuneralhome.com to sign the guest book and send sympathy cards.
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She was born in Pottsville on March 11, 1932. Mary was the daughter of the late Stephen Pogash and Mary S. (Sicsko) Pogash. She was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph F. Corby, who passed away on December 14, 1993.
Mary was a former member of St. Boniface Roman Catholic Church, St. Clair, and was currently a member of St. Clare of Assisi Roman Catholic Church, St. Clair. She was a graduate of St. Clair High School.
Mary worked at the former St. Clair Garment Factory. She also was employed as a waitress at the former River Inn in Schuylkill Haven and the former Clairian House in St. Clair.
In addition to her parents and husband, Mary was preceded in death by a son, David J. Corby; a grandson, Christian R. Bolich, who passed away in 2020; and her three brothers, George Pogash, Frank Pogash and John Pogash.
Mary is survived by her son, Joseph J. Corby, husband of Charlene of St. Clair; her son, Michael J. Corby of New Philadelphia; her daughter, Mary M. Bolich, wife of Ray of Las Vegas, Nevada; six grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and nieces and nephews.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Clare of Assisi Roman Catholic Church, St. Clair, on Friday, August 21, 2026, at 11 a.m., with Monsignor William Glosser officiating. Relatives and friends are invited to call from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the church on Friday morning.
Interment will be in Odd Fellows Cemetery, St. Clair.
James H. Evans Funeral Home, Inc., St. Clair, is entrusted with arrangements.
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Born in Reading on July 15th of 1961 she was the daughter of the late Edward and JoAnn (Yoder) Moore.
Michelle attended Shamokin area school district. She worked several different jobs most recently at Tyson Foods in the Highridge business park, as a forklift driver. However her favorite job was working at Knoebels Grove in Elysburg PA, in various positions from the Alamo to the catering department. She attended children’s Church events at the Lavelle church of the Nazarene in Lavelle where she loved donating and volunteering where she could. Her greatest passion was for her family, especially her grandchildren.
In addition to her parents, she was proceeded in death by her sister Elizabeth “Grace” Hull, Father In Law Leonard F Adams Sr., 2 brother-in-laws Dennis Fetterolf and William Adams, two sister-in laws Jean May Adams and Vicki Adams and a son in law Eugene Kane.
She was survived by her
Husband: Leonard F Adams Jr., married 48 years
Daughters: Amy Sue Kane, Allison Caccia (Husband Lesslie Caccia) and Amber Adams
Sons: Andrew Adams (Wife Rebecca Adams), Leonard Adams III (Wife Stacey. Adams) and Bernard Adams (Wife Ashley Adams)
Sisters: Lorri Moore, Peggy Fabrizio (Husband John Fabrizio)and Barbara Moore
Brother: Edward Moore Jr. (Wife Tracy Moore)
Mother in Law: Darlene Adams
Brother in laws: Carl Adams (Wife Sue Adams) and Daniel Adams Sr
Sister in laws: Ruby Fetterolf
25 Grandchildren, multiple Great grandchildren and Great Great Grandchildren
Many Nieces, Nephews, and Good friends
Relatives and friends are invited to a Celebration of Michelle’s Life, Saturday, August 29, 2026, from 11-4 at the Lavelle Church of the Nazarene, 2879 Fairgrounds Road, Lavelle. Feel free to bring pictures to share with the family. Some of Michelle’s friends and family are planting a tree in her memory. She loved visiting the National Parks. One of her favorites being Sequoia in California. Below is the link for anyone interested.
We are having the post cards sent to:
Church of the Nazarene
C/o Bernie Adams
2879 Fairgrounds Rd
Ashland, PA 17921
United States
Where they will be on display at her celebration of life.
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Born in Oklahoma City, she was the daughter of the late Kenneth and Patricia (Rushin) Knapp.
She was of the Baptist faith and was a housewife who enjoyed taking care of her family. She was educated in the Oklahoma City Schools.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her daughter Katrina and her husband Frank Tokarick.
She is survived by her children, daughters Patrice Tokarick and wife Christy Heinbach, Nicole Tokarick-Harmon and sons Craig Tokarick, and wife Kara, Joshua Komives and partner Jolene; 8 grandchildren and 1 great grandchild; 2 brothers, Kenneth Knapp and wife Terry, and Dale Knapp and wife Bonnie. Nieces and nephews.
Private services will be at the convenience of the family. Arrangements are by the Donald J. Butler Funeral Home, Minersville. For further information or to pay condolences to the family or to light a candle in Sandra’s memory, visit us at www.donaldjbutlerfh.com.
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Joann Conti, 74, of Brandonville passed away early Sunday morning August 16th at her home surrounded by family.
Born on November 16, 1951 in Shenandoah she was the daughter of the late Janine (Knapp) and Joseph Dettery Sr.
She graduated from West Hazleton High School in 1969.
Joann was the wife of the late Dennis J. Conti Sr. who passed February 20, 2025.
She attended St. John’s Lutheran Church in Brandonville.
Her and her husband owned and operated Conti’s Bar in Brandonville for many years. Joann also worked for Michaels in the warehouse. She also enjoyed camping at Worlds End State Park.
In addition to her husband, she was also preceded in death by her daughter Lisa Conti.
Joann is survived by; son Dennis “Hooter” J. Conti Jr. (Victoria), Brandonville; son Michael J. Conti, Aristes; daughter Lori Conti, Brandonville; brother Joseph Dettery Jr (Terry), Bethel; brother Larry Dettery (Jean), Brandonville; brother John Dettery (Cindy), Brandonville; sister Sally Roguski (Janis), Shenandoah Heights; sister Jackie Webb, Shenandoah; sister Janine Nedu (Frank) Shenandoah Heights; 13 grandchildren; 8 great grandchildren; many nieces & nephews.
Services will be private at the family’s request.
Kull-Heizenroth Funeral Home Inc. / Shawn E. Clark FD, 901 Centre Street Ashland, PA 17921 has been entrusted with the arrangements.
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Born in Donaldson on November 7, 1932, Shirley was the daughter of the late Edward and Mae Morgan Kimmel.
Shirley was a devoted mother, grandmother and great grandmother. She was known for her spirited personality, quick wit, stubborn streak, and independent nature. She never hesitated to share her opinion and always made sure those around her knew exactly where she stood. She loved working, spending time with her family, and sharing stories of her life. Shirley was truly the epitome of independence, living life on her own terms and rarely letting anyone tell her what she could or could not do.
The last surviving sibling of 10, Shirley is predeceased by her son, David E. Wolfgang, Sr.; her granddaughter, Laurie L. Williams; and step-grandson, Tobias J. Haupt.
Shirley is survived by her son, Terry (Susan) Williams; daughter, Teena (Joel) Haupt; grandchildren, Burton (Morgan) Williams, Samantha (Kodi) Koperna, David Wolfgang, Jr., Megan (AJ) Underkoffler, and Jenna (Taylor) Gantt; as well as Teena’s stepchildren, Chesney and Mitchell Haupt. She was blessed with nine great-grandchildren and two step-great-grandchildren.
Memorial services will be held on Saturday, August 22, 2026, at 11:00 A.M. at St. John’s Lutheran Church, 222 S. Tulpehocken St., Pine Grove, with SALM John Zeigler and Pastor Barry Spatz officiating. There will be a visitation on Saturday, August 22, 2026, from 10:00 A.M. at the church. Interment will be held at the convenience of the family in Heidelberg Cemetery at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, the family would prefer contributions be made to St. John’s Lutheran Church, 222 S. Tulpehocken St., 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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Born at the former Ashland Hospital, Fountain Springs, on May 21, 1966, he was the son of the late Charles and Carolyn (Boyer) Johnson.
Bill was a graduate of North Schuylkill High School, Class of 1985. He was a lifelong resident of Ashland and a familiar and beloved part of his community. Bill enjoyed working on cars and took great pride in his skills as a mechanic. He could often be found working on cars, using his knowledge and talents to fix whatever needed fixing. His love of mechanics was a big part of who he was.
Bill was known for his sense of humor and his ability to make people laugh. He was a true joker who was always joking around and bringing smiles to those around him.
Bill worked for Lindenmuth Sawmill for 28 years and for C.E.S. Landfill for 10 years, taking great pride in his work. He previously attended Zion’s Reformed United Church of Christ, Ashland.
Preceding him in death was his sister, Vickie Johnson.
Survivors include:
Daughters: Kimberly Johnson and Katie Jones
Siblings: Charles Johnson and wife, Lisa; Melanny Kline and husband, Kevin; and Carla Harter and husband, Warren
Grandchildren: Makaila Jones, Joseph Carney, Kadin Fahl, Noah Fahl, Kara Miller, Mark Miller Jr., and a granddaughter on the way
Nieces and nephews: Brian Johnson, Rachel Demko, Kristina Kowalick, Jeremy Johnson, Eddie Emerich, Alexis Emerich, and Daniel Wagner, along with many extended family members and friends who loved him dearly.
Bill’s laughter, jokes, love of cars, and the memories he created with family and friends will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be greatly missed, but never forgotten.
A private Celebration of Bill’s Life will be held at a later date. Details will be announced to family and friends.
Visit www.Fritzfuneralhome.com to extend condolences to Bill’s family. The Richard W. Fritz Funeral Home, Ashland, is in charge of funeral arrangements.
Preceding him in death was his sister, Vickie Johnson.
Survivors include:
Daughters: Kimberly Johnson and Katie Jones
Siblings: Charles Johnson and wife, Lisa; Melanny Kline and husband, Kevin; and Carla Harter and husband, Warren
Grandchildren: Makaila Jones, Joseph Carney, Kadin Fahl, Noah Fahl, Kara Miller, Mark Miller Jr., and a granddaughter on the way
Nieces and nephews: Brian Johnson, Rachel Demko, Kristina Kowalick, Jeremy Johnson, Eddie Emerich, Alexis Emerich, and Daniel Wagner, along with many extended family members and friends who loved him dearly.
Bill’s laughter, jokes, love of cars, and the memories he created with family and friends will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be greatly missed, but never forgotten.
A private Celebration of Bill’s Life will be held at a later date. Details will be announced to family and friends.
Visit www.Fritzfuneralhome.com to extend condolences to Bill’s family. The Richard W. Fritz Funeral Home, Ashland, is in charge of funeral arrangements.
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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
