Masonic Memorial

Gerald Bernstein, 85, of Jackson Township, passed away Thursday, Jan. 11, 2024, in Allied Services Hospice, Meade Street, Wilkes-Barre, Pa.

Gerald was born in Newark, New Jersey, on May 13, 1938, son of the late Leo and Ethel (Wilson) Bernstein. He graduated from Union High School, N.J., in 1956. Gerald attended Susquehanna University, where he also met his wife, Babetta Marie Hewitt. He received his B.S. in business administration in 1960, with a major in accounting. He was inducted into the Pi Gamma Mu National Social Science Honor Society.

Upon graduation, Gerald’s professional career began in Philadelphia, where he worked on the audit staff at Ernst & Whinney, CPAs, from 1960 to 1963, passing his CPA exam in May of 1963. Gerald moved to Northeastern Pennsylvania in 1963, where he began his private practice as a CPA until January 1977, at which time he merged his practice into the now-existing partnership of J.H. Williams and Co.

Gerald has been active in the community, a member of Irem Shriners, as well as professional activities, and has been a frequent lecturer on accounting and taxes. He is the past president of the Northeastern Chapter of the Pennsylvania Institute of CPA’s and a member of the AICPA and the PICPA.

Jerry, as everyone knew him, strived for success, perfection, and dedication at a very young age. He excelled in academics, as well as in sports, which earned him a full football scholarship while attending Susquehanna University. His steadfast characteristic was evident throughout his life. He had a strong demeanor, but he also had a softer side: Jerry loved making everyone laugh, by telling jokes and by his impromptu comedic acts. Jerry was also a cat lover. He adored both his Himalayan cat, Puffy, and his most recently adopted Balinese cat, Roxie. Not only Jerry was a great provider for his family, but he was also a loving and caring father, grandfather, and friend.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 61 years, Babetta, whom he loved so dearly.

He will be sadly missed by his children: daughter, Babetta Wenner and her husband, Wilbur, Jackson Township, and their daughter, Winter Wenner, RN, Wichita, Kansas; son, Dr. Brent Bernstein and his wife, Michele, Allentown, and their children: Ethan Bernstein, Chicago, Illinois, and Emma Bernstein, Gettysburg; and son, Dr. Barry Bernstein, and his wife, Shareena, Lehman Township.

Charles A. Lasher, 84, of Dallas passed away peacefully on Tuesday, October 31, 2023 at the Meadows Manor, Dallas. He is preceded in death by his wife of 20 years, Geraldine Lasher in 2006.

Born on February 16, 1939 in Wilkes-Barre, he is the son of the late Reuel and Mary (Neyhard) Lasher.

He was a graduate of Dallas Township High School. He had a remarkable career at Procter and Gamble, where he devoted many years of his life.

Chuck served proudly in the United States Marine Corps, upholding the values of loyalty, honor, and dedication.

Chuck contributed to the community and forged lifelong friendships through his memberships with the George M. Dallas Lodge No. 531 where he was a Past Master and 60 year member and the Dallas Irem Shriners.

Chuck had an adventurous spirit with numerous hobbies and interests including amateur Ham radio, bow hunting, Penn State football, chocolate, and wine. Above all, he loved to make others laugh & smile, he was a great kidder. Although he didn’t often openly express it, Chuck had a great love and concern for his family and friends.

He had a strong belief in the afterlife, where messages were carried on the wings of butterflies and hummingbirds. While we may be sad with his absence, he would want us to be happy, knowing that he’s smiling & dancing once again. “Those that walk in the Lord, never say goodbye for the last time.”

He is survived by his son, Charles H. Lasher; daughters, Patricia Harabin and husband Matthew, Sally Wirbicki, Susan Lasher; step children, Lisa Ford, Thomas Ford; sister, Sally Wagner; brother, Jack Lasher and wife Carol; grandchildren, Jennifer and David Lasher, Jason Harabin, Nicholas Harabin, Lauren Flynn, Thomas Wirbicki, Maddie Schall, Nicholas Lowery, Andie Lowery, Lucas VerBeek, and Annalise VerBeek; great grandchildren, Emma and Bill Harabin, Ayden Schall; several nieces & nephews, and loving companion and “partner in crime”, Sharon Strauser.

In addition to his wife, he is preceded in death by brother-in-law, Frank Wagner, Jr.

The family would like to extend a special thanks to the staff of the Meadows Manor for their loving care and Compassionate Care Hospice for their help in their dad’s peaceful transition.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made in Chuck’s name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place Memphis, TN 38105 or Prince of Peace Episcopal Church, 420 Main St. Dallas, PA 18612.

Albert S. Harris, 88, of Wyoming passed away on Thursday, February 2 at the VA Medical Center Hospice In-patient Unit in Wilkes-Barre, PA.

Al was born in Harrisburg, son of the late Albert S. and Thelma (Watkins) Harris. He graduated from
William Penn High School in York, PA and earned his Bachelor’s Degree from Gettysburg College. He was a proud member of the TKE Fraternity and continued in the An-TEKE brotherhood for many years.

After college, He proudly served his country in the US Army during the Korean War Era with an honorable discharge in 1958.

After discharge from his military service, Al was a third generation employee of International Harvester and began his career as a heavy duty truck salesman in York, PA. He then transferred to Lynchburg, VA where he purchased his own IH dealership which became Harris Truck Center in the 1970’s. After moving to Pennsylvania, he worked for Wilkes-Barre Mack Trucks and then eventually retired in 1997 from Castrol Oil Company . He was an honest businessman and appreciated the many loyal customers and friends he developed over the years.

He was involved in several organizations including the IH Collector’s Club and served as a Mason at the Dallas Lodge. Al was also an Irem Shriner and annually volunteered at the Irem Circus.

He was a long-time member of the Wyoming United Methodist church serving in the choir, as a Sunday School Superintendent, a Trustee, a Chairman of the Administrative Board, and volunteering for fund-raising dinners.

He became a loyal Penn State football fan after his son, Al, played for the school. He attended games at Beaver Stadium for over 40 years and especially enjoyed the Blue Band performances. He attended the 1983 Sugar Bowl, the 1995 Rose Bowl, and was thrilled to watch Penn State win the 2023 Rose Bowl.

Al and his wife were frequent diners at Agolinio’s restaurant in West Pittston where they would often invite friends and church members for Sunday brunch. They also enjoyed Cracker Barrel locally and when traveling, and the Grotto at Harvey’s Lake.

He had many health challenges over the years that he rarely spoke of. His family would like to thank all of the Providers and Staff at Geisinger Health System, Hospice of the Sacred Heart, and the VA Medical Center for such wonderful care that he received throughout the majority and end of his life.

Surviving is his beloved wife of 63 years, Janet (Gross) Harris. Children: Al (Alisa) Harris of Woodbine, NJ; Ted (Denise) Harris of West Pittston, PA; Simba (Frank) Zaffino of State College, PA; Grandchildren: AJ, Chris, Andre, and Dustin Harris, Melissa and Gavin Zaffino, great grandson Christopher Harris and sister Carolyn Van Newkirk.

John H. Jones, 80, of Saginaw Street, Dallas, formerly of Kingston, passed away peacefully Tuesday, Dec. 20, 2022, at Highland Manor, Exeter.

Known to his family as John Henry, he was born in New Milford, Conn., Nov. 6, 1942, the son and only child of the late John Daniel and Marion Chapin Jones.

He was reared in Kingston and was a graduate of Kingston High School, class of 1960, where he wrestled and played football. He served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam Conflict.

John was employed for 39 years by the International Brotherhood of Electricians Workers IBEW Local #163 as a Journeyman Electrician. He retired there due to a disability.

John was a member of The George M. Dallas Masonic Lodge #531, F&AM, Irem Shrine, both in Dallas. He was also a member and former board member of Daddow Isaacs American Legion post #672, Dallas. He was an associate member of the Antler Gun Club, Noxen, for 50 years. He was an avid outdoors man, enjoyed hunting, fishing and helping in the conservation of the land.

John enjoyed many years of camping and bass fishing with his family and friends in Westport, Ontario, Canada, on the Rideau Lakes, trips to Hawaii, Florida and Aruba were also memorable destinations.

In later years, there were trips to the shore, the Outer Banks of North Carolina being his favorite. He loved parades and cruising behind the wheel of his 1929 Model A Ford.

But his family meant the most to him. Nothing made him happier than watching his grandson, Hunter, play baseball and football for Northwest Little League and Lake-Lehman High School.

John is survived by his wife and best friend of 51 years, Sharon; dear devoted daughter, Megan E. Nice and her husband, George, Shickshinny; beloved grandson, Hunter Thomas Nice; sister-in-law, Sally Lutz; niece, Rebecca Evansky and her husband, John, Hudson Falls, N.Y.; godson, Brian DeLuca; cousins, Gwen and Jim Walters, Kingston; Betty Lane, New Jersey; and Walter and Betty Phillips, Macdonald.

John was a loving husband, father and grandfather and a great friend to many. He will be missed more than words could ever say.

Funeral service will be held privately at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in John’s Memory to Blue Chip Farm Animal Refuge, c/o 974 Lockville Road, Dallas, PA 18612.

Joseph Anthony Shaver, WARMland’s little Joey Shaver, entered the gates of heaven to the tune of “Here Comes Joey” Saturday, Nov. 5, 2022.

For 81 years, he lived his life to the fullest from the time he graduated from Kingston High School in 1959. He served his country with pride in the U.S. Navy, and when he left the service he started his long career in radio broadcasting and sales followed by television.

From station WBAX to WARM The Mighty 590, he loved the business! At WARM his 7 p.m. to midnight show was very popular with the teens. He later went into sales at the station and was the number one salesman for years. After his sales success at WARM, he became the sales manager for Magic 93.

Just prior to retirement, he became involved with WVIA Public Broadcasting in sales and on the air. The Polka show was very popular at the time. Dancing was one of his true joys! Joey and his wife, Judi, took ballroom dance lessons for a few years, so Joey suggested to management a Ballroom One Dance Program. It turned out to be a great idea and it aired for ten years never missing a beat! He also enjoyed emceeing Joe Nardone’s Summer Dances and the Doo Wop shows at the Kirby Center.

During his adult life, Joey always had a Corvette. He loved airplanes so he bought one and became a pilot. He and Judi would fly to Atlantic City, walk the Boardwalk and fly home all in the same day! He enjoyed hunting and fishing in Harveys Lake where he resided for 31 years. Cruising on the lake, he had a classy speed boat and a waverunner. He collected records, hats and guitars. While at his vacation home in Florida this past winter, his latest achievement was becoming a licensed amateur radio operator.

Community involvement was also important to him. He was past-president of an organization for Children with Learning Disabilities, past-president of the Wilkes-Barre Kiwanis Club and past-president of the Harveys Lake Protective Association. He was a member of George M. Dallas Masonic Lodge #531 F&AM and Irem Shrine Legion of Honor.

Joey was a member of Our Lady of Victory Church and faithfully attended the Saturday services and assisted as a collection usher.

He was the only son of the late Joseph J. and May Flower Shaver of Kingston.

Joey leaves behind his wife, dance partner and caregiver, Judi Blasé Shaver; his sons, Joseph W. and Brian C. (LeeAnn); his loyal companion dog, Lilly; brothers-in-law, Dr. Robert Blasé (Mary); Dr. John Scott Blasé (Jane); numerous nieces and nephews; cousins and many many great friends! He lived a wonderful life!

Donations, if desired, may be made to Blue Chip Animal Refuge, c/o 974 Lockville Road, Dallas, PA 18612.

John S. Spencer Sr., 87, of Dallas, passed away Monday, Oct. 31, 2022.

He was born in Carbondale and graduated from Dallas High School. He was married to Frances A. Kozick, the love of his life, for 29 years before her passing.

He owned and operated Lehman Golf Club, first with his father, Sam, and then with his son, John Jr. from 1953 until his death. John loved his family and made all his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren feel like they were his favorite.

He served honorably in the U.S. Army in England. John was a member of George M. Dallas Masonic Lodge 531; F&AM, Dallas, Irem Shrine; the Anthracite Golf Association; Daddow Isaacs American Legion Post 672, Dallas; and the United Penn Bank Board. He worked for 17 years for Thomas Garrity selling real estate in addition to running the golf course.

He was a member of Gate of Heaven Church, Dallas.

He loved to play golf and cards. Tuesdays and Thursdays were his regular card-playing days with friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Samuel G. Spencer and Alice Tompkins Spencer; his wife, Frances Spencer; and his granddaughter, Nicole Spencer.

He is survived by children, Mary Fiske (Matt), Kingston; Ann Stearly (Jay), Phoenixville; Elizabeth, Dallas; Joanie Yamrick (Frank), Dallas; Alice, Dallas; John Jr. (Kim), Dallas; Sam (Shelley), Trucksville; Frank, Wilkes-Barre; and Jenny (Jamie), Trucksville; grandchildren, Maria Fiske, Anna Fiske, Erika Stearly, Megan Koren, Samuel Stearly, Kaelee Stearly, John Yamrick, Kayte Yamrick, Bethany Crompton, Karen Yamrick, Rebecca Spencer, Allison Spencer, Abby Spencer, Colton Spencer, Brittany Spencer, Kasey Spencer, Cassie Bobyak, Kennedy Spencer, Madeleine Spencer, Spencer Bowanko and Colin Bowanko; and 16 great-grandchildren.

Memorial donations may be made to Mercy Center, c/o P.O. Box 370, Lake Street, Dallas, PA 18612; the Back Mountain Memorial Library, c/o 96 Huntsville Road, Dallas, PA 18612; or to the donor’s choice.

Robert D. Richardson, 84, of Dallas, passed away Monday, Oct. 10, 2022, at his residence.

Born in Kingston, he was the son of the late Lewis (L.L.) and Grace (Kane) Richardson. He was a graduate of Westmoreland High School. He was also a graduate of Dickinson College with a Bachelor of Arts in economics as well as Stonier Graduate School of Banking, Rutgers University. While at Dickinson, he served in the Reserve Officers Training Course (ROTC) and received the John Dickinson Saber award, the highest honor given to an ROTC graduating senior.

Bob served as executive officer for Luzerne and Lackawanna counties with Wachovia bank before his retirement. Bob began his career in 1971 with First Eastern Bank, Wilkes-Barre, where he spent 22 years before moving to several Wachovia predecessor institutions. During this 36-year commercial and business banking career, he positively impacted many area businesses and members of the community. He was also instrumental in helping Wachovia secure the naming rights to the arena at Casey Plaza, now known as Mohegan Sun Arena.

Bob was a member of the Shavertown United Methodist Church, serving on the finance committee. He was a founding director of Leadership Wilkes-Barre. He was the chairman of both the Wilkes-Barre Industrial Fund board of directors and the Dallas Borough Pension Fund. Among the many organizations he was involved in, he served on the boards of Greater Wilkes-Barre Chamber of Business and Industry, the regional chamber Partnership Committee, Boy Scouts of America, Visiting Nurses Association and Dallas Fire and Ambulance Inc. Bob was recognized for his ongoing support for the Boy Scouts of America, Northeast Pennsylvania council and received the highest volunteer award, The Silver Beaver. Bob also was a member of the George M. Dallas Lodge, Caldwell Consistory and the Irem Shriners.

Bob served his country proudly in the Army at Fort Benning, Ga., and Fort Dix, N.J., and with the 402nd Military Police. He retired at the rank of major.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 58 years, the former Sandra Sprout, in May of this year.

Surviving are his sons, Robert Richardson and his wife, Molly, Harleysville; and Mark Richardson and his wife, Carolyn, Bedminster, N.J.; daughter, Susan Crahall and her husband, A.J., Dallas; grandchildren, Carly, Nora, Reese, William, John, Daniel, Emily and Zachary; and brothers, Thomas and James Richardson.

The world lost a great man on Friday, Sept. 2, 2022. Dr. David A. Evans was called home following an activity he loved doing.

He was born in Kingston on Dec. 20, 1957, and was the son of the late David A., Jr. and Evelyn Evans.

David graduated from Northwest High School, Wilkes University and the Pennsylvania College of Optometry. He had an independent optometry practice in Nanticoke and was a partner in Family Vision Care in Kingston.

He was a member of the Sweet Valley Church of Christ where he served as a former deacon, American Optometric Association and Pennsylvania Optometric Association and its board for many years leading up to his presidency in what he called “2020: The Year of the Optometrist.” David was a 20-year member of the Valley Chapter of BNI, a group of independent businessmen and women with whom he has developed lifelong friendships.

David was also a member of the Lower Toby Sportsman’s Club and the Harveys Lake Rod and Gun Club. He was an avid outdoorsman who loved to hunt and fish. The most memorable trip he made was with his sons to Africa. He enjoyed getting together with his friends for a round of golf and looked forward to doing that more often after retirement.

David held many roles including husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, eye doctor and friend. He always found time and offered advice when needed, especially to his patients when they needed a helping hand. David was genuine and loved his family deeply. He also had a sensitive side that many did not get to witness but that came to light during family gatherings when he was asked to pray.

Dave adored his granddaughter, Cecelia, and was proud to be her Pop. He was looking forward to the birth of another granddaughter in the upcoming months.

David is survived by his wife of 42 years, Dr. Gail Evans; children, Kyle Evans and his wife, Taylor; Brooke Evans; and Curtis Evans and his girlfriend, Rachel Vidumsky; siblings, Amy Boytin and her husband, Chuck; Darrell Evans and his fiancée, Jackie Pascucci; Doug Evans and his wife, Lori; and Robyn Confalone and her husband, Jay; sister-in-law, Connie Higgins and her husband, Dennis; 10 nieces and nephews, their partners and their children who were dear to his heart; and thousands of patients who he cared for over the past 38 years in his eyecare practice.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Optometry Giving Sight in the form of a tribute gift at www.givingsight.org/donate or by calling 303-526-0430; or to the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation at www.RMEF.org/donate, for the preservation of wildlife habitat.

Leon F. Brokenshire Jr., 92, formerly of Dallas, passed away Thursday, Aug. 25, 2022, in Warwick, R.I., surrounded by his family.

Born in Wilkes-Barre, he was the son of the late Leon and Daisy Race Brokenshire and was a graduate of Dallas High School. Leon served his country as a military policeman in the U.S. Airforce during the Korean War and was employed as a lineman with PP&L for over 30 years before his retirement in 1992.

Leon was a member of The Valley View Chapel in Larksville, where he previously served as a trustee. Additionally, he was a member of Caldwell Consistory, Bloomsburg; Irem Shrine; and George M. Dallas Masonic Lodge #531 F&AM, where he was a past master and a 33rd degree Mason.

Leon enjoyed putting together jigsaw puzzles, staying active and pizza nights with his church family. He was an avid sports fan of the Phillies, Eagles and Penn State football. Above all, Leon loved spending time with his family.

In addition to his parents, Leon was preceded in death by his wife of 57 years, the former Elizabeth Lewis; daughter, Karen Sulewski; grandson, Adam Sulewski; and several siblings.

He is survived by his daughter, Lori Hoats, West Warwick, R.I.; and his four grandchildren, Jamie and Keith Sulewski and Jared and Courtney Hoats.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to his in-home caregivers, the staff at All American Assisted Living, and the staff at Brentwood Nursing and Rehabilitation for their compassionate care.

Leon’s family will remember his strong faith, love for life and his infectious smile.

Robert S. Asby, 87, passed away Saturday, July 16, 2022, in Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center, Plains Twp., surrounded by his loving family.

Born in Baltimore, Md., he was the son of the late Robert Anton Asby and Ann Sumner Asby.

In addition to his parents, Robert was preceded in death by his youngest son, Scott Siegel Asby.

Robert is survived by a son, Steven and wife, Mimi, Deltona, Fla.; daughter, Cindy Thomas and her husband, Lew, Dallas; sister, Joy Gottshall and husband, Don, Goldsboro, N.C.; and his beloved Anne; grandchildren, Brooke, Stephen and April Asby, Shannon (Thomas) Collette and Benjamin Thomas; great-grandchildren, Connor and Gavin Collette and Lincoln and Colton Thomas; and nieces.

Robert was a speech pathologist and audiologist by profession and acquired an extensive list of accomplishments and accolades throughout the 59 years of his patient care and professional career. The list is far from exhaustive but represents examples of his professional involvement: He designed and built the first hearing and conservation mobile testing unit for on-site industrial employees to detect and prevent hearing loss. He and his associates originally established the ENT Surgical Group. He was one of the first audiologists in the state of Pennsylvania to be licensed to fit and dispense hearing aids. He was a founding member of the Academy of Audiology and was deeply involved in several licensure committees. He was an associate professor for the Department of Communication Disorders at Bloomsburg University, Bloomsburg. He served on the board of directors for both the International Association of Laryngectomees and the Society of Medical Audiology. He served on the Speech Standards Committee, International Association of Laryngectomees – American Cancer Society.

Robert held memberships in several key organizations, such as the American Speech and Hearing Association, the Pennsylvania Speech and Hearing Association, the Pennsylvania Academy of Audiology and the Academy of Dispensing Audiologists.

Bob was an avid sports enthusiast and lived for the thrill of boating, skiing, football, biking and golfing to name a few. If not participating personally, he was enjoying sports on television. He made friends easily and over his lifetime the list of his close friends and associates became countless.

Bob seemed to have a 30-hour day and managed to always have time for people’s needs. In his aging and reflective years, the love for his family continued to flourish.

The family extends their sincere appreciation to the staff of Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center Emergency Room and the Intensive Care Unit for their excellent and compassionate care.