Schuylkill County, located in east-central Pennsylvania, is rich in history, culture, and a strong sense of community. Known for its deep roots in the coal mining industry, the county has experienced waves of change over the decades, leading to a diverse population celebrating its past and ongoing evolution.
One way to understand the tapestry of Schuylkill County is through its obituaries. Obituaries serve as a poignant record of a person’s life, offering insights into their achievements, values, and connections with others. These written tributes are not just about remembering those who have passed away; they also reflect the essence of the communities they belonged to.
Schuylkill County obituaries are stories of hardworking men and women contributing to the region’s development. You’ll find accounts of coal miners who braved the dangerous conditions underground to provide for their families, teachers who inspired generations of students, and entrepreneurs who started businesses that became cornerstones of their towns. The obituaries also recount the lives of veterans who served their country with honor, community leaders who dedicated themselves to civic engagement, and everyday people whose kindness and generosity left a lasting impact.
These obituaries also reveal the family ties and social networks that make Schuylkill County unique. They highlight the closely knit communities, mentioning large family gatherings, local events, and long-standing friendships. Through these stories, you can trace the lineage of families that have called Schuylkill County home for generations and those who have recently joined the community, adding new chapters to its ongoing story.
Eleanor T. Shelakes
Eleanor T. Shelakes, age 96, of Mahanoy City, peacefully passed away on Saturday, April 20, at Shenandoah Senior Living Community, Shenandoah, PA.
Eleanor was born on September 30, 1927, in Trenton, Pennsylvania, the daughter of the late Helen (Stetz) and Joseph Kershetsky. She graduated from Mahanoy City High School with the class of 1945.
Eleanor was a devoted member of St. Mary’s Byzantine Catholic Church in Mahanoy City. In her free time, she enjoyed bowling, a pastime that brought her joy and connected her with friends.
Eleanor was married to the late Anthony Shelakes. She is survived by her sister, Rosellen Blue, who resides in Florida, and several nieces and nephews.
In addition to her husband, Eleanor was preceded in death by her brother, Joseph, and her sisters, Dorothy Steibler and Natalie Gabuzda.
A service for the Office of Christian Burial and Divine Liturgy will be held at St. Mary’s Byzantine Catholic Church, Mahanoy City, on Wednesday, May 1, at 11 AM. Reverend James Carroll will officiate the ceremony. Family and friends are invited to call at the church from 10 AM until the service begins.
Interment will take place at St. Mary’s Byzantine Cemetery.
Louis D. Truskowsky Funeral Home & Crematory Inc. of Mahanoy City oversees the arrangements. To sign the guest book or send condolences, please visit www.truskowskyfuneralhome.com.
Arthur James Felty
Arthur James Felty, age 96, a former resident of Pine Grove, passed away peacefully on April 19, 2024, at his home in Saint Clair, Pennsylvania, with his loving family by his side. He was the devoted husband of Faye Elizabeth (Geier) Felty for 72 years.
Arthur was born on June 30, 1927, in Schuylkill Haven, Pennsylvania, the son of the late Adam and Florence (Newcomer) Felty. He graduated from Pine Grove High School in 1945, becoming an Eagle Scout, earning two Oak Leaf Clusters and the Order of the Arrow. During World War II, Arthur served as a weather observer in the Army Air Corps, achieving the rank of Sergeant.
Arthur spent much of his career at Alcoa Aluminum in Cressona as a Laboratory Analyst. After Alcoa closed, he continued working at the Cressona Aluminum Company until he took over the Cressona Aluminum Employees Federal Credit Union, where he was the manager for 13 years. He was also president of the Pennsylvania Credit Union League Anthracite Chapter from 1993 to 1998. Arthur gave back to the community by volunteering with AARP as an income tax preparer for over 25 years and was a 70-year Pine Grove American Legion member.
Faith was central to Arthur’s life, and he was a dedicated member of Saint Paul’s United Methodist Church in Pine Grove. He served as an adult Sunday school teacher, church treasurer for 18 years, lay leader for over 40 years, and chairman of the administrative council. Arthur’s musical talents shone through his singing with the Penn State Schuylkill Men’s Quartet and Chorus, the church’s Senior Choir, and as a soloist at Christmas Eve services, where he performed “Oh Holy Night” for over 50 years.
Arthur had a passion for learning and creativity. He built and maintained his home, assembled organs and a grandfather clock from kits, and crafted church choir robes and other clothing for family members. He crocheted afghans and washcloths, creating treasured keepsakes for loved ones.
Arthur’s greatest joy was his family. He is survived by his beloved wife, Faye; his sister Alice (Ohlemacher); his children, Susan Shappell and Rodney Felty; and his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Arthur’s character and generosity will always be remembered.
In addition to his parents, Arthur was preceded in death by seven siblings: Laura, Ada, Adam, Alma, Alberta, Alda, and Allen.
The family thanks the staff at Lehigh Valley Hospital Schuylkill, All Care Home Care, and Hospice for their compassionate care.
Memorial services and interment at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery will be scheduled at a future date at the family’s convenience. Bruce Hart Funeral Home in St. Clair is handling the arrangements.
Adam “Mickey” Holota
Adam “Mickey” Holota, age 93, of Coaldale, Pennsylvania, passed away in Hometown on Saturday, April 21, 2024. He was the beloved husband of Lillian (Svrchek) Holota, with whom he recently celebrated 68 years of marriage.
Born in Reading, PA, and raised in Tuscarora, Adam was the son of the late Michael and Anna (Dobrosky) Holota and the stepson of the late Pearl Holota. He graduated from Tamaqua High School in 1949 and served in the United States Air Force for 24 years, which took him to various domestic and overseas locations, including a tour in Vietnam. Following his retirement in 1973, Adam became a familiar figure in Coaldale and Lansford, often seen taking long walks and greeting residents.
Adam was a dedicated member of several veteran organizations, including Coaldale VFW Post #6982 and Coaldale American Legion Post #170. He was also an active member of St. John Slovak Lutheran Church in Lansford, serving as an usher and reader. He was known for his community involvement and commitment to his faith.
Above all, Adam cherished his family. He found his greatest joy in his wife, Lillian, and their four sons: Michael, Martin, Mark, and Richard. Adam was also predeceased by his brother, Robert Dobrosky, and several aunts, uncles, and cousins.
A private interment service will be held at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery at the family’s convenience. Zizelmann-Gulla Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc., Tamaqua, is handling the arrangements.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are obituaries, and why are they important?
Obituaries are public notices of a person’s death, typically published in newspapers or online. They are essential because they announce the passing of an individual to the community and honor their life by highlighting their accomplishments, relationships, and contributions.
2. Where can I find obituaries for Schuylkill County?
Obituaries for Schuylkill County can be found in local newspapers like the “Republican Herald” and on online obituary platforms or websites for funeral homes that serve the area. Some popular online sources include “Legacy.com” and the websites of local funeral homes.
3. What information is typically included in an obituary?
An obituary generally contains basic information about the deceased, such as their name, age, date of death, and cause (if shared). It also includes details about their life, such as family members, education, career, community involvement, religious affiliations, and personal interests. Additionally, obituaries provide information about funeral or memorial services and burial or cremation arrangements.
4. How can I submit an obituary to a Schuylkill County newspaper?
You can contact the newspaper’s obituary department or the funeral home handling the arrangements to submit an obituary to a Schuylkill County newspaper. They will guide you through the process, including providing the required information and any associated costs.
5. How much does it cost to publish an obituary?
The cost of publishing an obituary varies depending on the publication and the length of the obituary. Local newspapers typically charge based on word count or the inclusion of photographs. It’s best to contact the newspaper or funeral home for specific pricing details.
6. How can I leave a condolence message for a family in Schuylkill County?
Many newspapers and online platforms allow readers to leave condolence messages on obituary pages. You can also send sympathy cards, flowers, or other support tokens to the family directly or through the funeral home.
7. What is the best way to stay informed about recent deaths in Schuylkill County?
To stay informed about recent deaths in Schuylkill County, you can subscribe to local newspapers, follow them on social media, or regularly check online obituary platforms. Some funeral homes also offer email notifications when new obituaries are posted.
Conclusion
Schuylkill County obituaries serve as poignant reminders of the lives lived within this vibrant Pennsylvania region. They are more than mere announcements of passing; they capture the essence of individuals and the communities that nurtured them. Through obituaries, we learn about the achievements, relationships, and unique stories that shaped the county’s history and culture.
These memorials reflect the deep sense of community in Schuylkill County, where generations of families have lived, worked, and supported each other. They also reveal the diverse tapestry of people who have contributed to the county’s identity, from coal miners and veterans to teachers, business owners, and dedicated community members.
