Parambo Funeral Home, 54 West Fell Street, Summit Hill, PA (2026)

06/01/2026

Robert John Yurko, 73, passed away peacefully on May 19, 2026. Born on August 31, 1952, Robert was the youngest son of the late John and Sophie Yurko of Summit Hill, Pennsylvania. He was a proud graduate of Marian Catholic High School, Class of 1970. Robert dedicated many years of hard work throughout his life. He began his career at Peoples Life Insurance Company and later worked for Schaefer/Pabst Brewery. He also spent time working alongside his brother in the family painting business, Yurko’s Recolor, before eventually retiring from Fisher Pharmaceuticals.

Robert was a man who enjoyed life’s simple pleasures and passions. He loved cheering on the Cleveland Indians, attending car and air shows, and spending time around little league baseball. He will be remembered for his hardworking nature, his loyalty to family, and the memories he created with those who knew and loved him.

He is survived by his loving daughter, Johnna West and her husband, Chris West; and his beloved grandson, Zach West.He is also survived by his brother, Joseph Yurko and his wife, Anita Yurko; nieces Heather Yurko, mother of Amzie Yurko and Mina Johnstone; and Yvette Yurko, mother of Sophie Yelinko. In addition to his parents, Robert was preceded in death by family members who welcomed him home in eternal peace.

Robert will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all whose lives he touched.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date at the request of the family. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Parambo Funeral Home of Summit Hill. Online condolences may be shared at www.parambofh.com.

Robert John Yurko, 73, passed away peacefully on May 19, 2026. Born on August 31, 1952, Robert was the youngest son of the late John and Sophie Yurko of Summit Hill, Pennsylvania. He was a proud graduate of Marian Catholic High School, Class of 1970. Robert dedicated many years of

06/01/2026

David E. “Dave” Hartranft, 72, of White Bear Drive, Summit Hill, passed away on Friday, May 29, 2026, at St. Luke’s Miners Memorial Hospital, Coaldale. He was the beloved husband of Fran (Navin) Hartranft. Dave attended Tamaqua Area High School before proudly serving his country in the U.S. Army and U.S. National Guard from 1972 to 1977. Following his military service, he worked as a Crane Operating Engineer and was a member of Local Union #542. He was a former member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Tamaqua. Dave was an avid hunter, fisherman, and outdoorsman who found great enjoyment in spending time in the outdoors. He was also a skilled taxidermist, proudly completing all of his own work. In his spare time, Dave enjoyed antique cars, Harley-Davidson motorcycles, and processing firewood at his home to sell. Above all, Dave will be remembered by his family and friends for his wonderful sense of humor, being a comedian, and having a gift for making people laugh.

Surviving along with his wife, Fran; is his Son, David Hartranft and his significant other, Eileen and Daughter, Mary Walker and her companion, Justin Gernert; Stepson, Daniel Sabol and his significant other, Amber and Stepdaughter, Mary Jane Sabol; Grandchildren, Chastity and Blake; Step Grandchildren, Marley, Ava, Elijah and Kyla; Great Grandchildren, Aidan and Kayden; Brother, John Hartranft and his late wife, Patricia; Sister Heidi Breiner and husband Kenneth; Brother-in-laws, James Witherow and significant other Debbie and Michael Witherow and Mary Jo. He was preceded in death by a Sister, Beth Ann Hartranft.

Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, June 6, 2026 at 11 a.m. from the Parambo Funeral Home, 54 W. Fell St., Summit Hill with the Rev. Ruth Ann Christopher officiating. Interment with Military Honors will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery, White Bear, Summit Hill. Calling Hours are on Saturday from 10-11 a.m. at the funeral home. Contributions, in Dave’s memory may be made to the Carbon County Friends of Animals, 77 W. 13thSt., Jim Thorpe, PA 18229. Online Condolences may be shared at www.parambofh.com.

David E. Dave Hartranft, 72, of White Bear Drive, Summit Hill, passed away on Friday, May 29, 2026, at St. Lukes Miners Memorial Hospital, Coaldale. He was the beloved husband of Fran Navin Hartranft. Dave attended Tamaqua Area High School before proudly serving his country in the U.S. Army and

05/21/2026

Marianne T. Ogozalek, 83, of Lansford, passed away on Sunday, May 17, 2026, in the St. Luke's Miners Memorial Hospital, Coaldale. She was the wife of the late Joseph J. "Buddy" Ogozalek, who passed away on Aug. 30, 2006. Born in Coaldale, she was the daughter of the late Frank and Anna (Byzetzer) Rehatchek. She was a graduate of Nesquehoning High School. Marianne worked in the local garment industry at the former Aquila Factory and last worked at the former Coaldale State General Hospital in housekeeping. She was a member of St. Joseph Parish of the Panther Valley, Summit Hill.

Surviving are her sons, Joseph Ogozalek of Lansford and Anthony Ogozalek, and his wife, Teresa, of Shillington; grandchildren, Morgan Ogozalek, Jadin Ogozalek, Michael Brogan and Palma Ernst; five great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. She was also preceded in death by a brother, Robert Rehatchek.

Funeral services will be private and at the convenience of the family. Contributions in Marianne's memory may be made to St. Joseph Parish of the Panther Valley. Funeral arrangements have been placed in the care of the Parambo Funeral Home, Summit Hill. Online condolences may be shared at www.parambofh.com.

Marianne T. Ogozalek, 83, of Lansford, passed away on Sunday, May 17, 2026, in the St. Lukes Miners Memorial Hospital, Coaldale. She was the wife of the late Joseph J. Buddy Ogozalek, who passed away on Aug. 30, 2006. Born in Coaldale, she was the daughter of the late Frank

05/09/2026

Vincent P. Lisella, 70, of Summit Hill, passed away on Saturday, May 2, 2026 after fighting a courageous battle with cancer. Born in Palmerton, he was the son of the late Vincent G. Lisella and Kathleen (Conahan) Lisella. He was a graduate of Marian Catholic High School. He then went on to graduate from Mansfield University, where he received his Master’s Degree in Philosophy, and then Bowling Green State University, where he received his Doctorate’s Degree in English. Vincent was a Professor at Corning Community College in New York for most of his teaching career, until his retirement in 2021. He was a member of St. Joseph Parish of the Panther Valley in Summit Hill. Vince loved music, having been very musically inclined, being able to play the drums, keyboard and flute as well as various other instruments.

Surviving are his Daughters, Justine Lisella and her fiancé, Mike of Portland, OR and Emily Lisella and her fiancé, Ivan of Sayre, PA; a Sister, Michele Kennedy of Bethlehem; Several Nieces and Nephews. He was preceded in death by a Sister, Ann.

Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, May 9, 2026 at 11 a.m. from the Parambo Funeral Home, 54 W. Fell St., Summit Hill with the Rev. Eric Gruber officiating. Interment will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery, White Bear, Summit Hill. Calling Hours are on Saturday morning from 10-11 a.m. at the funeral home. Contributions, in Vince’s memory may be made to St. Luke’s Hospice c/o the funeral home. Online Condolences may be shared at www.parambofh.com.

Vincent P. Lisella, 70, of Summit Hill, passed away on Saturday, May 2, 2026 after fighting a courageous battle with cancer. Born in Palmerton, he was the son of the late Vincent G. Lisella and Kathleen Conahan Lisella. He was a graduate of Marian Catholic High School. He then went

05/09/2026

Elizabeth “Betty” Wiskirski, 79, of Summit Hill, passed away on Sunday, May 3, 2026 at St. Luke’s University Hospital in Bethlehem. She was the wife of Leo Wiskirski of Summit Hill. Born in Lehighton, she was the daughter of the late Ruben and Margaret (Haman) Zellner. She attended Jim Thorpe High School. Betty worked in Housekeeping at Mahoning Valley Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Lehighton for many years. She was a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in the Heights of Jim Thorpe.

Surviving along with her husband Leo, are her daughters, Deborah Trudich of Summit Hill and Wanda Fritzinger and her husband Doug of Treichlers; Brother, Ruben Zellner of Palmerton; Grandsons, Cody Trudich and his wife Jessica and Tyler Trudich; a Great Granddaughter, Chloe Elizabeth Trudich; Many Nieces and Nephews. She was preceded in death by a Brother, Charles Zellner and Sisters, Marie Hinkle and Joan Marsolick.

Memorial Service will be held on Thursday, May 7, 2026 at 11 a.m. from the Parambo Funeral Home, 54 W. Fell St., Summit Hill with the Rev. William Thompson officiating. Interment will follow at Sky-View Memorial Park, Hometown. Calling Hours are on Thursday morning from 10-11 a.m. at the funeral home. Contributions, in Betty’s memory may be made to St. John’s Lutheran Church in the Heights, 319 S. Ave., Jim Thorpe, PA 18229. Online Condolences may be shared at www.parambofh.com.

Elizabeth Betty Wiskirski, 79, of Summit Hill, passed away on Sunday, May 3, 2026 at St. Lukes University Hospital in Bethlehem. She was the wife of Leo Wiskirski of Summit Hill. Born in Lehighton, she was the daughter of the late Ruben and Margaret Haman Zellner. She attended Jim Thorpe

04/25/2026

Patricia A. “Pattie” Fisher, 68, of Lansford, passed away on Wednesday, April 22, 2026 at her residence surrounded by loved ones. She was the wife of Richard W. Fisher, having been married for 51 years this past June. Born in Lehighton, she was the daughter of the late Francis and Rosemary (McArdle) McGeehan. She was a graduate of Marian Catholic High School. After years of working as a nurse, she went on to graduate from Cedar Crest College receiving her Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work. She then went on to receive her Master’s Degree in Social Work from Columbia University while also studying at NYU. Pattie worked for many various Hospice Care Groups as a Hospice Social Worker throughout her career. She was a member of St. Joseph Parish of the Panther Valley, Summit Hill.

To know Pattie Fisher is to love her. For decades, she was a crusader for her patients in hospice, ensuring comfort, compassion, and lasting memories for families during their most difficult times. Her kindness and dedication touched countless lives, and she was a wonderful, family-oriented person who would do anything for those she loved. Pattie was a devoted friend to the end, always ready to lend a hand or a listening ear.

Surviving along with her husband Richard, are her Sons, Scott Fisher and his significant other, Kelsey McLoughlin, of Lansford, Ryan Fisher of State College and Corey Fisher and his wife Rebecca of Alburtis; Brothers, Francis McGeehan of Allentown, Jack McGeehan and his wife Robin of Bear Creek Lakes, Michael McGeehan of Nesquehoning, Patrick McGeehan and his wife Rosemary of White Bear, and Eugene McGeehan and his wife Carol of Lehighton; Sisters, Maureen Gurka and her husband Joseph of Lansford and Sarah Degiglio and her husband Sam of Summit Hill; Grandchildren, Logan, Madison, Makenna and Colby; Several Nieces and Nephew.

Funeral Service will be held on Sunday, April 26, 2026 at 5 p.m. from St. Joseph Parish of the Panther Valley, 462 W. Ludlow St., Summit Hill with the Rev. Eric Gruber officiating. Calling Hours are Sunday from 2-5 p.m. at the church. Internment will be held at the convenience of the family. In memory of Pattie, donations may be made to help the family with final expenses. Funeral arrangements have been placed in the care of the Parambo Funeral Home of Summit Hill. Online condolences may be shared at www.parambofh.com.

Patricia A. Pattie Fisher, 68, of Lansford, passed away on Wednesday, April 22, 2026 at her residence surrounded by loved ones. She was the wife of Richard W. Fisher, having been married for 51 years this past June. Born in Lehighton, she was the daughter of the late Francis and

04/22/2026

Paul J. “Paulie” Velitsky Jr., born on October 29, 1943, passed away on April 18, 2026 at his residence at the Veterans Community Living Center, Wilkes-Barre, Pa. Born in Summit Hill, he was the son of the late Paul and Anna Marie (Rhodunda) Velitsky. He graduated from the former Summit Hill High School where he excelled in basketball, football and track. Upon graduation, he followed in his father’s footsteps, enlisting in the US Army as the Vietnam War was beginning. After his discharge, he enlisted in the US Air Force, where he served until he was medically retired from the US Air Force.
In retirement, Paul enjoyed camping at his trailer in Mahoning Valley, loving the outdoors. He was an avid fisherman and hunter until his health would not longer allow it. He also enjoyed coffee with visitors at his camper and tinkering with electronics.
After moving to the Veterans Community Living Center, Paul took on the unofficial title of “Mayor” of the VA. Whether greeting people at the door or roaming the halls on his Jazzy Scooter, everyone knew him by name. He visited new and long-term residents to lift their spirits or simply to keep them company. Paul received excellent, attentive care at the community center. The family deeply appreciated the wonderful care that Paul received at the VA Center in Wilkes-Barre. Paul was a member of St. Joseph’s Church in Summit Hill; American Legion Post 316 and the former Summit Hill Rod & Gun Club.
Paul is survived by his loving brother, Attorney Joseph J. Velitsky and his dearest, best friend and cousin John Moravek; also several other cousins. He was pre-deceased by his wife Rose Buck.
Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, April, 25, 2026 at 11 a.m. from the Parambo Funeral Home, 54 W. Fell St., Summit Hill with the Rev. Eric Gruber officiating. Calling Hours are on Saturday morning from 10-11 a.m. at the funeral home. Interment with Military Honors will be held privately at the convenience of the family. At Paul request, in lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to: Veterans Promise, 737 Main Street, Dickson City, PA 18519. Online Condolences may be shared at www.parambofh.com.

Paul J. Paulie Velitsky Jr., born on October 29, 1943, passed away on April 18, 2026 at his residence at the Veterans Community Living Center, Wilkes-Barre, Pa. Born in Summit Hill, he was the son of the late Paul and Anna Marie Rhodunda Velitsky. He graduated from the former Summit

04/22/2026

Helen M. Powell, 95, formerly of Lansford and Lehighton, passed away on Wednesday, April 15, 2026 at Cedarbrook Senior Care & Rehab in Allentown. She was the wife of the late Eddie R. Powell who passed away on March 20, 2012. Born in Andrewsville, Summit Hill, she was the daughter of the late Joseph and Mary (Mikulski) Janis. Helen worked at the former Kiddie Kloes Garment Factory in Lansford for many years. She was of the Catholic faith.
Surviving is her Son, Edward J. Powell of Lehighton; Grandchildren, Anthony E. and Angela C. She was preceded in death by a Brother, Stanley and Sisters, Verna, Mary and Annie.
Services will be private at the convenience of the family. Funeral Arrangements have been placed in the care of the Parambo Funeral Home of Summit Hill. Online condolences may be shared at www.parambofh.com.

Helen M. Powell, 95, formerly of Lansford and Lehighton, passed away on Wednesday, April 15, 2026 at Cedarbrook Senior Care Rehab in Allentown. She was the wife of the late Eddie R. Powell who passed away on March 20, 2012. Born in Andrewsville, Summit Hill, she was the daughter of

04/10/2026

Mario Iezzoni, of Summit Hill, Pennsylvania, a devoted husband, proud U.S. Army Sergeant Major, and beloved father, grandfather, and great grandfather passed away on April 8, 2026 at the age of 93. Born on March 24, 1933, in Tocco da Casauria, Abruzzo, Italy, Mario immigrated to the United States in 1946, settling in Lansford, Pennsylvania, where he was reunited with his parents. He was the son of Gabriele Iezzoni, known affectionately as “Tony the Tailor,” a skilled craftsman from Mutignano, Italy and Domenica (Pietromartire). Mario carried with him the strength, resilience, and deep family values of his Italian heritage throughout his life. Mario dedicated over 20 years of honorable service to the United States Army, rising to the highest enlisted rank of Sergeant Major. He served his country with distinction during both the Korean and Vietnam Wars, exemplifying courage, discipline, and unwavering commitment. He was awarded the Bronze Star for Valor in the Korean War. He worked with Wernher von Braun on the Jupiter-C multi-stage rocket that launched the first American Satellite into space in 1958. His military career was a source of great pride, and the values he lived by, integrity, loyalty, and perseverance, remained evident in every aspect of his life. After his time in the military, he worked as an audio-visual engineer/instructor at F.I.T. known as Fashion Institute of Technology in NYC, until he retired. He was the beloved husband of Patricia (Dougherty) Iezzoni of Summit Hill, and together they built a life centered on family, love, and hard work. However, one could not leave out some of his other remarkable qualities, wild berry picking, being especially prolific at blueberries, he could quickly spot a four-leaf clover amongst hundreds of three leaf ones and was king of keeping his brood fed with just plain bologna sandwiches on trips to the beach. He was a master at blowing out birthday candles in one swift breath although at his 92nd birthday we had fire extinguishers ready. He always picked a huge bouquet of wild violets for our mother every spring. He was a devoted father to eight children, a proud grandfather to 20 grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren, each of whom he cherished deeply.

Beyond his service and family, Mario had a passion for running that reflected his determination and spirit. He found great joy in the open road, often accompanied by his loyal Irish Setter, Lila Bella. Side by side, they logged countless miles together, forming a bond that was as strong as it was joyful. His dedication to running led him to complete the New York City Marathon twice in the late 1980’s, an accomplishment he carried with quiet pride. Those runs, especially with Lila by his side, were among the moments that defined his love of life, discipline, and companionship. Mario was a member of St. Joseph Parish of the Panther Valley in Summit Hill and a member of the Summit Hill American Legion Post 316.Mario will be remembered as a man of generosity, strength and humility, a provider, a protector, and a steady presence in the lives of those who knew and loved him. His journey, from a young boy in Italy to a decorated soldier and devoted family man in America, is a testament to a life well lived.

He is survived by his loving wife, Patricia Iezzoni and his children, Kathleen Mangan, Mario A. Iezzoni Jr. and his wife MaryAnn, Mary Beth Moritz and her husband John, Patricia Gabig and her husband Will, Perri W. Iezzoni, Regina Brenneman and her husband Robert, Maria Ravert and her husband Bill and Christopher Iezzoni; 20 grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren. He is pre-deceased by his parents and brother Anthony Iezzoni.His legacy of service, sacrifice, and unconditional love will live on through his family and all who had the honor of knowing him.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, April 13, 2026 at 11 a.m. from St. Joseph Parish of the Panther Valley, 462 W. Ludlow St., Summit Hill. Calling Hours are on Monday from 9:30-11 a.m. at the Church. Summit Hill American Legion Service will be conducted at 10:45 a.m. Interment with Military Honors will be held at the convenience of the family at Ft. Indiantown Gap National Cemetery, Annville, PA. Contributions, in Mario’s memory, may be made to a charity of one’s choice. Funeral Arrangements have been placed in the care of the Parambo Funeral Home of Summit Hill. Online condolences may be shared at www.parambofh.com.

Mario Iezzoni, of Summit Hill, Pennsylvania, a devoted husband, proud U.S. Army Sergeant Major, and beloved father, grandfather, and great grandfather passed away on April 8, 2026 at the age of 93. Born on March 24, 1933, in Tocco da Casauria, Abruzzo, Italy, Mario immigrated to the United States in

04/08/2026

Sandra M. Breiner, 85, formerly of Summit Hill, passed away on Sunday, April 5, 2026 at St. Luke’s Miners Memorial Hospital in Coaldale. She was the wife of the late Charles W. Breiner Sr. who passed away in 1992. Born in Coaldale, she was the daughter of the late Anthony and Mae Kopack. Sandra worked at the former Gnaden Huetten Hospital in Lehighton in housekeeping for many years.
Surviving is her Son, Steven Breiner and his companion Lorraine Wing of Jim Thorpe; Grandsons Josh Breiner of Summit Hill and Tristen Breiner of White Haven; Brothers, Carl Kopack and his wife Joyce of Mahoning Valley and Michael Kopack and his wife Sandy of Utica, NY; a Sister, Carol; Great Grandchildren, Anna, Kaylee, Chase, Reagan, Nevin, Carson and Marshall. She was preceded in death by three sons, Jay Breiner, Jamie Breiner and Chuckie Breiner and Grandson, Andrew Breiner.
Services are private at the convenience of the family. Funeral Arrangements have been placed in the care of the Thomas J. Parambo Funeral Home of Summit Hill, PA. Online Condolences may be shared at www.parambofh.com.

Sandra M. Breiner, 85, formerly of Summit Hill, passed away on Sunday, April 5, 2026 at St. Lukes Miners Memorial Hospital in Coaldale. She was the wife of the late Charles W. Breiner Sr. who passed away in 1992. Born in Coaldale, she was the daughter of the late Anthony

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