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Graziano Funeral Home, 700 South Township Boulevard, Pittston, PA (2026)

03/05/2026

Raymond J. Cichocki, 63, of Dupont, PA passed away March 3, 2026, peacefully at home.

Born in Scranton, April 19, 1962 he was the son of the late Raymond and Margaret (Melnick) Cichocki.

Raymond was a graduate of Pittston Area High School. He was a retired PennDOT truck driver.

Raymond had a love of the outdoors. He was co-owner of Ray’s Bait an Tackle where he worked for many years alongside his mother and family. He especially had a passion for fishing both salt water and freshwater. He was a world record holder for the largest musky caught while ice fishing. He also won numerous Bass Master and Redman Tournaments up and down the east coast. This led him to start his own fishing guide business “Ray’s Fishing Guide Service” He loved to go crabbing and clamming in Delaware and his “second home” was Ocean City, MD.

Raymond was an excellent cook and could whip up a delicious meal or make homemade pizza from scratch; one might even say it was incredibly more flavorful than any restaurant.

Raymond was ana extremely devoted catholic and a proud member of Sacred Heart of Jesus R.C. Church, Dupont, PA.

Surviving are his wife, Mary Beth ( Matson ) Cichocki; sisters, Attorney Diane Wylam and Suzanne and husband, Dr. Joseph Rossowski; brother, Joseph Cichocki and Melissa Lear; sister-in-law and brother-in-law Dan Fitzgerald and wife Tricia; along with several nieces and nephews and great nieces and great nephews.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made in Ray’s name to:
National Centre of Padre Pio: 11 Barto Rd. (P.O. Box 206) Barto PA, 19504

Funeral services were entrusted to Graziano Funeral Home Inc., 700 South Twp. Blvd., Pittston Twp., PA.

03/04/2026

Laniyah “Lala” Clark was born on January 26, 2011, in Flint, Michigan to Joseph Etzel and Enjoli McCloe. Her father, Joseph Etzel, preceded her in death.

Laniyah spent her early childhood with her biological parents and siblings. Although her parents loved her deeply, circumstances led to her being removed from their care. In 2018, Lala was placed with the Clark family, and from the moment she arrived, she made an unforgettable entrance.

Lala came into our lives like a wrecking ball-loud, opinionated, fearless, and full of energy. She made her presence known immediately and commanded the full attention of everyone around her. It did not take long for her personality and spirit to leave a lasting impression on our family.

On March 17, 2020, Laniyah was formally adopted by Antoine Clark and Ameerah Woods. That day was one of the happiest days of her life. She proudly wore a shirt that said “Team Clark” on the front and “No Take Backs” on the back-a phrase that perfectly captured both her humor and the deep sense of belonging she felt with her forever family.

Lala loved deeply and widely. She loved children, animals, music, and the many people she called friends. Most of all, she loved her family-ALL HER FAMILY! She was proud to be an Etzel, a McCloe, and a Clark.

Lala carried big dreams in her heart. She hoped to one day become an American Sign Language interpreter, helping bridge communication in the Deaf community she loved so much. She dreamed of returning to Camp HERO, the deaf camp she attended every summer, not just as a camper but as a counselor. She was also looking forward to enrolling at the Western Pennsylvania School for the Deaf, where she hoped to continue learning, growing, and building lifelong friendships.

Lala is survived by her biological mother, Enjoli McCloe; her six biological siblings; and her adoptive parents, Antoine Clark and Ameerah Woods. She also leaves behind her beloved siblings Nydira, Antoine Jr., Ameer, and Gabrielle, as well as her foster siblings Iyah, Angi, and Josh, who loved her dearly and were proud to call her sister.

For the full obituary, please visit www.GrazianoFuneralHome.com

03/03/2026

Rose M Kelly, formerly of Pittston, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully on February 24, 2026, at the home of her son and caregiver, Rev Brian F Kelly, in Carlsbad, California, at the age of 103. Rose Emma was born on August 11, 1922, in Pittston. She was the daughter of the late Joseph Emma and Carmella Manganaro Emma. Rose was the youngest of six children who all have preceded her in death: Margaret, Mary Pizano, William, Catherine Micklosky and Joseph.

A public viewing will take place at Graziano Funeral Home, 700 South Township Blvd., Pittston, PA on Friday, March 6, 2026 from 5:00-9:00 p.m. with a Vigil Service at 8 p.m.

Funeral services will begin at the funeral home on Saturday, March 7, 2026 at 1:00 pm. Those who plan on attending are asked to be at the funeral home no later than 12:45pm.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday from St. John the Evangelist Church, 32 William St., Pittston, PA.

Graveside committal services will follow in St. John the Evangelist Cemetery, Pittston.

03/03/2026

Michael “Mike the Barber” DeFrancesco, 80, of Pittston, passed away early Sunday morning, March 1, 2026 surrounded by his entire family.

Born December 24, 1945 in Yatesville, he was the son of the late Michael DeFrancesco Sr. and Lydia Sell. Michael graduated from the former Northeast High School in Pittston in 1963, where he met his childhood sweetheart and the love of his life, Lorraine DeMark DeFrancesco of Old Boston. The couple would have celebrated their 58th wedding anniversary later this year.

His greatest love of all - and his proudest accomplishment - was his family. Michael’s entire world revolved around Lorraine and their two children, Michael J. DeFrancesco of Bear Creek and Lynnette Martin of Ocean Isle Beach, NC.

A celebration of Michael’s life will be held from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. this Thursday at Graziano Funeral Home, 700 South Township Blvd., Pittston.

Funeral services will begin at the funeral home on Friday at 9 a.m. Those who plan on attending are asked to be at the funeral home no later than 8:45am.

A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 10am in St Francis Cabrini Church, 585 Mt. Olivet Road, Wyoming, PA.

02/24/2026

Carol A. Stanczak, 76, of Jenkins Township, passed away peacefully, at home, with her family by her side, on Sunday, February 22,2026.

Born in Pittston, November 18, 1949, she was the daughter of the late Louis and Ruth (Mashunas) Krause.

Carol was a 1967 graduate of Pittston Area High School. She was employed, for many years at United Methodist Homes Wesley Village and at Valley Crest.

In her free time, she enjoyed country western dancing as a Member of the Anthracite Rose Dance Club. On a hot, summer day, she also enjoyed floating in her backyard pool, along with anyone who would grab a float and keep her company. “Come on in, the water’s fine”, she would tell them. She also took pleasure in Cruising to different ports with her husband, Steve. Together they enjoyed over 20 cruises.

Her greatest joy was taking care of her Grandson Josh, whom she loved dearly, or as she put it, “I love you to the Moon and Back”. She absolutely adored her 16-yr old Cocker Spaniel Chloe (recently deceased). She also loved sitting in her recliner, reading a good book or playing games on her phone. You always got the “look” if you were caught sitting in her chair. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother Michael Krause and sister Donna Casey.

Surviving are her husband of 57 years, Steve Stanczak, Jenkins Twp.; daughters Kimberly Stanczak, Pittston Twp., and Nicole Litwin, Jenkins Twp. She is also survived by her loving Grandson Josh Litwin, Jenkins Twp. and niece, Cassandra Casey, Exeter.

02/13/2026

Sam J. Gallo, 86, of Pittston, passed away peacefully at Allied Services Hospice Center Wilkes-Barre on Thursday, February 12, 2026, surrounded by his family.

Born March 30, 1939, in Pittston, he was the son of the late Frank and Caroline (Derose) Gallo.

Sam was a 1957 graduate of Pittston High School and proudly served in the United States Army. A lifelong football enthusiast, he played in high school, volunteered on the chain gang at Pittston Area games for many years, and treasured fall Saturdays in Happy Valley cheering on the Penn State Nittany Lions with his family.

He retired from InterMetro in Wilkes-Barre, where he formed lasting friendships, he considered family. Above all, Sam was a devoted father, remembered for his infectious smile, warm heart, and willingness to help anyone in need.

Surviving are his daughters, Paula (Brian) Custer and Donna (Keith) Oldham; his cherished grandchildren, Gianna (Mike) Dalessandro, Myiah Custer, Isaac Oldham, and Bridget Oldham; and his beloved great-granddaughter, Camilla Dalessandro. He is also survived by his sister, Jean Clonan, along with many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Sam was preceded in death by his wife, Jo Ann, brother Frank (Harpo), sisters Ann, Frances, and Rita, and his companion Peggy Grivner.

11/11/2025

A little background as why Veterans day cant just be on a monday for an extended weekend!! This year veterans day falls on Tuesday, November 11, 2025

In the USA, Veterans Day annually falls on November 11. This day is the anniversary of the signing of the armistice, which ended the World War I hostilities between the Allied nations and Germany in 1918. Veterans are thanked for their services to the United States on Veterans Day.

❤️🇺🇸💙

11/04/2025

Lucille M. Toole, 96, recently passed away peacefully, at Embassy of East Mountain Nursing Home in Wilkes-Barre, where she was a guest for the past two months.

Born in Scranton, she was the daughter of the late Catherine (Hawazinska) and Frank Lis. In her younger years she worked at various factories in the area and later helped with catering at St. Mary’s Center in Scranton. She met her future husband, Tom, a firefighter, when he was stationed across the street where she lived. The rest, as they say, is history. They moved to Minooka, built a home, and raised two daughters. She dedicated herself to her most cherished role as devoted homemaker and caregiver to family members during her life.

Visitation will be held Thursday, November 6, 2025 at Graziano Funeral Home, Pittston Township, from 5-7pm.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, November 7, 2025 at 10:30am from St. Stanislaus Cathedral, 529 East Locust Street, Scranton. Those who plan on attending are asked to go directly to church the morning of the funeral.

Interment will follow in Fairview Memorial Park, Elmhurst.

For further information or to share a memory of Lucille, please visit www.GrazianoFuneralHome.com

11/03/2025

Edward “Ed” Trowbridge, 64, of Old Forge, formerly of Pittston, passed away peacefully on November 1, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer over the past four years. Born on November 19, 1960, Ed was the devoted husband of 45 years to Carrie; the loving father of Michael and Alyssa, and the late Christopher; and the proud grandfather of Mason, Molly, and MJ.

Ed built a distinguished career in the manufacturing industry and was widely regarded as a steady leader with a solutions mindset. He mentored colleagues, championed quality and safety, and earned the respect of peers and partners across the field.

Away from work, Ed’s happiest days were spent with family and friends, often on the golf course. A passionate golfer and lifelong music lover, he brought warmth, humor, and an easy laugh to every gathering.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Charlotte and Edward; his brother, Bruce; and his son, Christopher.

In addition to his wife, Carrie, he is survived by his children, Michael and Alyssa; his daughter in law, Megan Trowbridge; his grandchildren, Mason, Molly, and MJ; and a large circle of extended family and friends who will miss him dearly.

Ed will be remembered for his strength, his humor, his love of music, and his unwavering dedication to the people he loved. He is deeply loved and will be forever missed.

Funeral services have been entrusted to Graziano Funeral Home Inc., 700 S.Twp. Blvd., Pittston Twp., PA 18640.

Calling hours will be held from 2pm-4pm on Saturday, November 8, 2025 at the funeral home.

For further information or to share a memory of Ed, please visit www.GrazianoFuneralHome.com

11/01/2025

Josephine Mary Nesgoda, 82, of Pittston Township, passed away peacefully on October 31, 2025, at Hospice of the Sacred Heart, Dunmore, surrounded by the love of her family.

Born on December 9, 1942, in Pittston Township, she was the daughter of the late Charles and Mary (Tarullo) DeMarco.

She was a graduate of Pittston Township High School. She was active in the Pittston Township All-Class Reunion Committee and the Italian American Association. She was a lifelong resident of Pittston Township. She was a member of Sacred Heart of Jesus Church, Dupont. She was known for her stubborn yet sassy personality.

In addition to her parents Josephine was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Frank Nesgoda, who passed away in 2008, her granddaughter, Brianne Nesgoda, and her brothers Leonard DeMarco and Charles DeMarco.

She is survived by her daughter, Rochelle Roman and husband Daniel; her son, James Nesgoda and wife Lorianne; her son, Joseph Nesgoda; her cherished grandchildren, Abigail Roman and Joshua Roman; and her brother, Nicholas DeMarco and wife Mary Louise, and sister-in-law, Elaine DeMarco, and numerous nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Sacred Heart of Jesus Church, 215 Lackawanna Avenue, Dupont, PA 18641, on Thursday, November 6, 2025. Interment will follow in the parish cemetery.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the Hospice of the Sacred Heart for the compassionate and extensive care provided to Josephine in her final days.

For further information or to share a memory of Josephine, please visit www.GrazianoFuneralhome.com

10/28/2025

Half Season Tryouts coming up soon!!!
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www.gotskillztumblegym.com

10/27/2025

Geraldine Montagna, 95 of Pittston, passed away on October 26, 2025 surrounded by family at Allied Skilled Nursing, Wilkes-Barre, PA.

Born November 29, 1929. She was the daughter of the late William and Mary (Chicanoski) Bolka of Hanover Twp. (Breaslu Section).

Gerry spent her career as a housewife and worked in the garment industry for many years. She loved cooking meals for her family and on holidays you could always find her in the kitchen preparing for everyone.

In addition to her parents, she was proceeded in death by her husband, Joseph Montagna; brothers, Joseph, Stanley, and William Bolka.

She survived by her children, Sal Montagna (Joanne) Rosemary Desanto, (Joe) and Mary Jo Montagna; grandchildren, Joseph Montagna (Bekah), Jeffery Montagna (Lindsey), Joel Desanto (Michele), Justin Desanto (Meredith), Robert Reedy (Brittany) and Eric Reedy. She is also survived by her nine great grandchildren along with her brother Eugene Bolka, Mountain Top PA.

The family would like to thank the third-floor staff from Allied Services Meade Street Skilled Nursing for their kindness, care and compassion in caring for Gerry.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Graziano Funeral Home Inc., 700 S. Twp. Blvd, Pittston Township, PA 18640.

A public viewing will be held from 8am-9am on Friday, October 31, 2025 at the funeral home.

Funeral services will begin at the funeral home at 9am Friday. Those who plan on attending are asked to be at the funeral home no later than 8:45am.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, at 9:30am from St. Joseph Marello Parish, 237 William St., Pittston, PA 18640.

Interment will be private. Gerry will be laid to rest in St. Rocco’s Cemetery, Pittston Twp., PA.

For further information or to share a memory of Gerry, please visit www.GrazianoFuneralHome.com

Graziano Funeral Home

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