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Litwin Funeral Home, 33 Reynolds Street PO Box 278, Factoryville, PA (2026)

01/30/2026

Diane Britton, 76, of Factoryville died, Wednesday Jan. 28, 2026 at home. She was born in Scranton on Sept. 21, 1949. The daughter of the late Kennard M. and Ramona Ayers Britton.
She graduated from Lackawanna Trail High School in 1969. Diane worked in the Maintenance Department at Lackawanna Trail School District until her retirement. She enjoyed playing Bingo, crocheting, bowling and fishing.
Diane was preceded in death by her brother, Kevin R. Britton who died Jan. 3, 2024 and her brother-in-law Bruce Rivera who died on March 14, 2025
Surviving are two sisters, Cyndy Sanders of Lancaster, NH, Becky Rivera of Factoryville, several nieces, and a nephew.
Celebration of Diane’s Life will be held at the convenience of the family. Arrangements by Anthony P. Litwin Jr. Funeral Homes, Inc. 33 Reynolds St. Factoryville. Interment at Evergreen-Woodlawn Cemetery, Factoryville.
Memorial contributions may be made to Factoryville Fire Company 412 College Ave. Factoryville PA 18419

01/30/2026

Howard Wayne Comstock, 74, of Tunkhannock, passed away at Geisinger CMC Hospital on January 29, 2026. Born in Meshoppen on June 18, 1951, he was the son of the late Howard Culver Comstock and the late Evelyn Keisinger of Mehoopany. He was married to the former Ellen Hanson for 10 years.

A 1969 graduate of Tunkhannock High School, Howard served in the United States Air Force. He worked as a phlebotomist at Tyler Hospital and in the family business, Comstock Garage in Mehoopany, alongside his father and brother. Later, he was employed at P&G for over 20 years, working in papermaking. Howard loved hunting, fishing, golfing, photography, and spending time with his grandchildren, especially watching them compete in their various sports.

He also enjoyed camping, kayaking, and being outdoors. He had a passion for woodworking.

In addition to his parents, Howard was preceded in death by his brother, Corey Comstock; sister, Kay Tunnicliff; and daughter, Andrea Comstock Allen.

Surviving, in addition to his wife, are his children: Melissa and husband Paul Eckert of Bloomville, NY; Sarah and Kevin Hallock of Tunkhannock; and Jennifer Knapp of Weedsport, NY. His grandchildren include Lacey and Adelynn Eckert, Avery Allen, Kevin Hallock Jr., Linus Woodhams, twin sister Jane Miller, of North Carolina, and a brother in-law Sevelon Tunnicliff of Mildred, and many nieces and nephews.

A memorial service is scheduled to take place on February 8th at 7pm from the Harding Litwin Funeral Home, located at 123 W. Tioga, Tunkhannock. Military honors will be held at 6:45pm and the visitation will start at 5pm at the funeral home. For online condolences or directions, visit www.aplitwinfuneralhomes.com.

01/23/2026

Ruth Ellen Hetrick-Tylutki-Tierney, 70, of Glasgow, passed away at home on Wednesday, January 21, 2026. She was born on October 18, 1955, in Sharon, PA, to Clair D. and Sara M. Hetrick, both of whom preceded her in death. She graduated from Sharon High School and then attended Mansfield University, where she
received her bachelor’s degree.

Ruth had a creative ability to turn everyday events into a fun and unique life experience. She brought this spirit to everything she was involved in, from family to community involvement, to work, and with friends. She was a fun-loving, light- hearted, and inclusive person who left a lasting impression on all who crossed her
path.

In her early career as an early childhood educator at Keystone College, she took great pride in shaping the minds of the children she taught. She continued that legacy later in her career as a Curriculum Specialist with Teachstone, Inc., where she helped shape the minds of other educators across the country. Ruth loved her
job and was praised for her ability to inspire greatness in others.

A lifelong fan of the Steelers, she enjoyed watching sports, including rooting for LSU, listening to music, knitting, sharing her recipes with her children each time they would visit, dancing with her husband, Kevin, who promised they would always dance.

Ruthie or Rudy, as she was often lovingly addressed, holds a very special space in the hearts of many and will be fondly remembered by all who have had the chance to love her. YAYA!

Left to cherish Ruth’s memory are her husband, Kevin Tierney; daughters, Sara Tylutki (Brian) and Ashley Tylutki (Dale); sons, Michael Tylutki and Joshua Tylutki; sister, Betsy Brice (Keith); and brother, Ralph Hetrick (Terri).

Ruth’s wishes were to be cremated, and for there to be no service. Online condolences may be made at www.botetourtfh.com.

01/23/2026

Brian M. Vail, 54 of Factoryville, passed away Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at Geisinger Community Medical Center, Scranton, after a brief illness. He was born in Tunkhannock on October 4, 1971, the son of the late Ward A. Vail who passed away on July 3, 2011 and Jo Vail of Factoryville.

He was a talented auto body mechanic. He was a member of the Factoryville United Methodist Church, a graduate of Lackawanna Trail High School, class of 1990. He loved his LT Lions, New Orleans Saints and Notre Dame. He loved hunting, fishing trips to Pulaski, NY and woodworking, enjoyed time with his family. The family would like to thank Doctors and staff at Geisinger C.M.C for the tremendous care they gave to Brian.

Surviving beside his mother, Jo, is his significant other Jacqueline Jumper; two sisters, Carol Selwood (John) of North Carolina, and Kathryn Ryon (Ben) of Factoryville; brother Ward Jr. 'Buddy' of Lakeville; several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Memorial services will be held at the convenience of the family. Arrangements by Anthony P. Litwin Funeral Homes, Inc. 33 Reynolds St., Factoryville.

For condolences please visit: aplitwinfuneralhomes.com

01/23/2026

Lori J. Ryan, 69, of Factoryville died Tuesday January 20, 2026 at Lehigh Valley Hospital – Cedar Crest, Allentown. She was born in Bloomsburg on January 24, 1956 one of five daughters of the late Arthur and June Chapel Mordan of Dalton.
She was previously employed by McKesson and Scranton Heart Institute.
Lori’s pride and joy were her children and grandchildren. She cherished spending time together, especially around the holidays baking Christmas cookies. She also enjoyed playing board games, reading a good book and having sleepovers with her grandchildren. She loved being with her sisters whether it was Easter egg hunt shopping, cookouts or taking sister trips. She loved bird watching, puzzles and conversation with all her friends. Those that knew Lori best knew she always had coffee in hand and candy crush in the other. During the football season you could find her rooting for the New York Giants.
Lori is survived by her two daughters Sarah Ryan, Kansas: Elizabeth Ryan (Chris Pensak) of Tunkhannock and son Jack Ryan (Stacey) of Clarks Summit. She is also survived by three sisters Tami (Douglas) Armacost of East Berlin; Mindy Hill of Scranton and Jennifer (Vincent) Kalinoski of Factoryville, Lori also leaves behind 8 grandchildren: Brian, Troy, Tori, Aidan, Colby, Devin, Addison and Colton, who were all the light of her life. Also, several nieces and nephews who she dearly loved.
In addition to her parents, Lori was preceded in death by her sister Susan K. Moody and her former husband and life-long friend, John G. Ryan Jr.
Celebration of Lori’s life will be held at the convenience of the family. Arrangements by Anthony P. Litwin Jr. Funeral Homes, Inc
Memorial donations: LVH - Cedar Crest General Fund.
Lehigh Valley Health Network
Office of Philanthropy
PO Box 1883
Allentown, PA 18105-1883
https://gift.idonate.com/lehigh-valley-health-network/lvhn

01/20/2026

James Robert Thomas III “Robby”, of Monroe Township, went to be with his Heavenly Father on January 18, 2026. Born in Wilkes-Barre on December 28, 2006, he was the son of James Robert Thomas, Jr. and Jennifer Renee De La Paz Thomas.

James graduated in 2025 from Tunkhannock Area High School, where he excelled as a member of the football team and returned following graduation as a volunteer coach. He was a loyal boyfriend to Taylor, and friend to many. He enjoyed fishing, working on his truck, skiing and racing. Throughout school and following graduation he was a dedicated employee at J.Thomas Electric.

He is preceded in death by his maternal grandmother Jenny De La Paz of Las Cruces, New Mexico, step-grandfather Robert Rifenbery of Noxen, great grandparents Anthonius (Tony) and Edna Thomas, and Russel and Eleanore Traver.

He is survived by his parents, James Robert Thomas, Jr. and Jennifer Renee De La Paz Thomas, and his brother Cooper all of Monroe Township. Additional surviving relatives are paternal grandfather James Thomas Sr. and step-grandmother Nancy Thomas of Tunkhannock, paternal grandmother Patricia Rifenbery of Noxen and maternal grandfather Jose De La Paz of Las Cruces, New Mexico.

Funeral services will take place at the Harding Litwin Funeral Home, 123 W. Tioga St. Tunkhannock. A viewing will be held at the funeral home on Friday January 23rd from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. Funeral services on Saturday, January 24 11:00 AM. Interment will follow on Saturday at Orcutt’s Grove Cemetery in Noxen.

Service will be streamed. Please visit https://evt.live/james-robert-thomas-iii-robby

For online condolences or directions, please visit www.aplitwinfuneralhomes.com

12/30/2025

Charles “Buzz” Grohe, aged 79, of Meshoppen, passed away at home on December 26th, surrounded by his family. Born on May 4, 1946, in Cedar Grove, NJ, he was the son of the late Francis and Viola Verderamo Grohe.

A veteran of the US Army who served in Vietnam, Buzz was married to Anita Meier, who predeceased him in 2006. He found joy riding his Harley Davidson, driving his Shelby Mustang, joining friends at the Wyoming Senior Center, photographing, target shooting, and playing taps at funerals across Northeast Pennsylvania. Buzz was active with the local VFW and had a deep love for animals.

Along with his wife and parents, Buzz was also preceded in death by his brother-in-law Richard Bienvenue, Sr., and his beloved dogs Jaeger, Engel, Panther, and Buddy.

He is survived by his son Michael and daughter-in-law Michele Grohe of Meshoppen; his sister Maria Grohe of Rio Grande, NJ; Diane Grohe Bienvenue of Edison, NJ; sisters-in-law Eileen Hennings (and husband Donald of Tannersville, PA) and Sigrid Anderson (and husband Donald); as well as many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and cherished grand pups Harley, Joelle, Panku, and Libby.

A memorial service with military honors will take place on January 31st at 11 am at Harding Litwin Funeral Home, 123 W. Tioga St., Tunkhannock. Visitation will begin at 10 am until the service starts. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to your local animal shelter.

evt.live/charles-buzz-grohe

For online condolences or directions, please visit www.aplitwinfuneralhomes.com.

12/12/2025

Frances Carroll Belcher, 77, of Falls, passed away peacefully in Allied Services Hospice Center, Scranton. She was born on June 7, 1948 in Scranton. The daughter of the late John F. and Grace Slack Carroll.

Frances was a devoted daughter, wife, mother, grandmother and a constant source of love and comfort to anyone in need. She cherished time spent with her family – especially her grandchildren, who brought her immeasurable joy. Guided by her faith in God, she lived her life with strength, kindness and a generous heart, making her steady and uplifting presence in the lives of all who knew her.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, William Belcher.

She is survived by her daughters, Denise Miller (Paul) of Exeter, Renee Vietz (Dave) of Duryea and Christine Rogers (Brent) of Factoryville. Eight grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

A Memorial Service will be held on a later date. For on-line condolences please visit www.aplitwinfuneralhomes.com

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Allied Services Foundation 100 Abington Executive Park Clarks Summit PA 18411 or DaVita Tunkhannock Dialysis 5950 Sr 6, Tunkhannock, Pa 18657

12/08/2025

Rose Marie McKernan, 88, of Falls and formerly of Folcroft, Pa., passed away at The Meadows in Dallas, Pa. Born in Philadelphia on December 29, 1936, she was the daughter of Bernard and Mary McDevitt. Rose was married to John McKernan for 49 years until his passing.

She graduated from Bartrum High School and worked as a waitress at the Ramada Inn. Rose especially cherished time spent with her grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband and her sister Cecilia.

Her survivors include sons William McKernan of Wilkes-Barre; John and Sandy McKernan of Falls; Michael and Christine McKernan of West Chester; her sister Kathleen and Daniel Kennedy of Aston, Pa.; eight grandchildren, eleven great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, December 12th at 11 a.m. at the Church of the Holy Redeemer, 2435 State Route 92, Falls, PA. Visitation will begin at 10 a.m. until the service starts. Interment will be private at the family's convenience. Online condolences may be shared at www.aplitwinfuneralhomes.com

12/08/2025

OBITUARY FOR RICHARD KENDIG

Dick (Rich) left this world to be with his beloved Lord and Savior on December 4th. He is surely fishing with Jesus as you read this and giving him advice on casting correctly! Born in Ashley, PA In February 1939 to Robert Kendig Sr and Nellie Kendig, he eventually moved with his Mother, Dad and siblings, to Wilkes Barre, PA where he graduated from Coughlin High School in 1957. While there he proudly earned letters in both the football and track & field teams.

After graduation, he joined the US Army, where he served as a medic in the Emergency Room. Then he settled in Levittown PA where he worked as a welder for 30 years at US Steel Fairless Works in Fairless Hills, PA and started a family.

After retiring from US Steel, he moved to the place he loved most to be, Tunkhannock PA, and worked for Wyoming Sand and Stone as a Welder, Offset Paperback in Dallas PA, and the Township of Eaton in Wyoming County PA.

He spent his free time doing things he loved: hunting on Miller Mountain and fishing the many area trout streams including his favorite stream, Bowman's Creek. He wouldn't even tell his wife the location of his "secret hole". He particularly enjoyed fishing with his kids and grandkids and was especially proud when they caught a bigger fish than he did! In his later years he became a "cat whisperer" and cared for numerous feral cats.

He was a loving Husband, Father, Grandfather, Great Grandfather, friend and neighbor. His church and church family were also very important to him.

He was predeceased by his parents: Robert Kendig Sr and Nelli Kendig; Brother, Robert Kendig Jr; and Sisters Doris Watkins and Florence Marsh.

He will be lovingly missed and remembered by those who survived him including his wife of 37 years, Patricia (Darling) Kendig; Children: Donald Kendig and wife Lisa & Elizabeth Lewis all of Langhorne PA.; Scott Pellinger and wife Debbie, Sayre, PA. Grandchildren: Aidan Lewis, New Haven, CT; Ava Kendig, Langhorne PA; Nikki (Pellinger) Schutt and husband Tyler of Waverly NY. Great-granddaughter: Delaney Schutt, Waverly NY. Brother: Donald Kendig and wife Joan, Kingston, PA & Sister, Barbra Bootier, Tucson, AZ. Many, nieces and nephews; Neighbors and friends. And, of course, his 6 cats who also sorely miss him.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Eatonville United Methodist Church, c/o Brenda Spiece, treasurer, 371 Keelersburg Rd, Tunkhannock, PA 18657 and/or to the cat rescue: For The Love of a Feral, 2053 North Overbrook Rd, Factoryville, PA 18419.

There will be a celebration of his life on December 19th at 2PM at Eatonville United Methodist Church, 44 Church Road, Tunkhannock, PA. Interment will be private at the convenience of the family.

12/04/2025

Ernest “Ernie” John D’Agata passed away on November 26, 2025. A beloved resident of Tunkhannock, Pennsylvania, and Naples, Florida, Ernie was born on September 26, 1937, in Campodipietra, Italy. He spent the first seven years of his life there with his mother while his father had already moved to the United States to establish a new home for the family.

Before the family could reunite, World War II began. Ernie’s father was drafted into the U.S. Army, where he served with distinction across several European countries—though never in Italy. After the war ended, Ernie and his mother made the long voyage to New Britain, Connecticut, carrying with them a single large trunk filled with all their possessions.

Ernie later served in the U.S. Air Force, attended the University of Connecticut and went on to earn a master’s degree from the Rochester Institute of Technology. His professional life began with Owens–Illinois Glass and Xerox Corporation, where he forged a reputation for hard work and leadership. In 1982, Ernie moved to Pennsylvania and became a partner in Abington Car Complex in Clarks Summit, followed by Sun Auto in Moosic in 1988. After selling those businesses in 2003, he continued to share his expertise as a partner in the Sherwood Groves dealership in Towanda, Pennsylvania.

Ernie will be remembered for his excellent meatballs and hot peppers, his enthusiasm for nature and hunting, and his love for spending time with family and friends. Ernie is survived by his wife, Hollie (Williams), to whom he was married for almost 60 years; his daughters, Carie Burke (Kevin) and Manda D’Agata (Ian Barnes); and his cherished grandchildren, Sara, Anna, and Leah Burke, and Mattie Barnes. He also leaves behind loving sisters and brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews, and cousins, all of whom will remember him for his generosity, constant hospitality, and the deep pride he took in his family.

The memorial service to honor Ernie’s life will be held on January 3, 2026, at 11:00 a.m.at the Tunkhannock United Methodist Church at 4 Church Street, Tunkhannock Pennsylvania, with Military Honors taking place at 10:45 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to the Lake Carey Union Chapel 56 Shore Dr Tunkhannock PA 18657 or the Lake Carey Dam Association (LCDA) PO Box 637 Tunkhannock PA 18657.

11/25/2025

Elaine L. Knauss of Meshoppen, 90, went to be with our Lord on Saturday, November 22, 2025, surrounded by family.

Born in Sterling, Illinois, on October 21, 1935, she was the daughter of Lillian Palmer and Howard Schlaegel, and was wife to the late Leonard Knauss.

Among her many accomplishments and caring for her family, Elaine also loved studying her Bible, singing, playing her musical instruments, teaching/ministering, gardening, and caring for plants. She also made it an important part of her daily living to spread God's Word, doing so whenever and wherever she could.

She had always been ready to meet the Lord but stayed here with us as long as she could.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, brother Daniel Rhodes, and grandson Joseph Davidson. Surviving is her brother David Schlaegel, New York, and her children, Rick Clark with his wife Mary, Meshoppen, Chris Davidson, Meshoppen, John Clark, Meshoppen, Stephen Clark with his wife Syntong, Texas, and Michael Clark with his wife Shellene, Tunkhannock. She was blessed also with many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

Services will be private at the family's convenience.

For condolences or directions, visit www.aplitwinfuneralhomes.com

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