Irene Patricia Dzurovcin

Irene Patricia Dzurovcin, 96, passed away on the morning of Monday, April 3rd at The Meadows Nursing and Rehab Center in Dallas,PA where she resided since December 2016. She was born on March 17,1927 daughter of Joseph and Helen Rekus Lusnia.

Irene grew up in the Stanton Hill section of Wilkes-Barre, Twp. and eventually returned to her family home after her mother's passing in 1993. She lived there with her husband until his death in 1997 and then by herself until entering The Meadows.

Irene in addition to her parents was preceded in death by her husband of 47 years, Joseph "Lefty" Dzurovcin; her siblings, infant Joseph Lusnia, Thomas Lusnia, Anthony Lusnia, Joan Leikheim and Patricia Klein and all of their spouses; her son-in-law Joseph A. Habersky and her godson, Ronald Rayeski.

Irene is survived by her daughter, Karen Habersky, Dallas Twp. granddaughter, Elena Habersky, Cairo, Egypt; daughter Janice Dzurovcin and husband, Edward Wilbur, Pittsburgh, PA; godson and nephew, Michael Leikheim Wilkes-Barre,Twp. and her sister, Barbara Shedlock (Joseph-deceased), Plains,PA. She also leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Irene worked in various places throughout her adult life, the last being Carter Footwear in Wilkes-Barre before permanently retiring. During her high school years, Irene left school to help her family financially, but when she wanted to return to finish high school and graduate, which was important to her, her former school would not accept her back. Instead, she enrolled in Wilkes-Barre Twp.High School for her Senior year and graduated from there in 1946. During that one year there, Irene participated in a school musical production and made many lifelong friends.

Irene married Joseph "Lefty" Dzurovcin on November12,1949. They raised their two daughters and during most of their married life lived first in Wilkes-Barre Twp.; then in North Wilkes-Barre and finally moved back to Stanton Hill, Wilkes-Barre,Twp. Irene was an excellent cook and baker who especially loved making traditional dishes for the holidays. Her pierogies, mushroom soup, piggies nut and poppyseed rolls and cookies were always a treat. During Summer weekends, when a Sunday outdoor picnic was the norm and held in her mother's back yard, Irene always brought her signature macaroni salad and dill pickles made in a stone crock for everyone to share. As everyone was packing up to go back home, the day usually ended with the singing of the opening lyrics of the song "Goodnight Irene" led by her late brother-in-law John Leikheim.

Irene was also a very talented seamstress. She designed her own wedding gown; made clothes for herself and sewed dresses for both her daughters, including doll dresses to match her youngest daughter's outfits. Irene made beautiful Halloween costumes for her granddaughter, Elena. Her early sewing skills were mentored by her godmother and aunt, Lottie Zasada, who was always ready to give a helping hand or advice when asked.

The Catholic faith was very important to Irene. She was a member of Our Lady of Hope (St. Mary's of the Maternity) Parish. She also attended Mass at the nursing home whenever it was scheduled and she prayed the Rosary and Chaplet of the Divine Mercy.

At this time Irene's family wishes to thank everyone at The Meadows Nursing and Rehab Center for the wonderful care they gave her. Once she adjusted to living there, which did not take long, she enjoyed participating in the activities, especially BINGO and any musical entertainment. She filled her free time doing word finds which kept her mind sharp. Special thanks to Dr Alan Boonin, the RN's and nursing assistants who kept her healthy for as long as possible and to the dietary staff and activities staff members who made her six years there enjoyable. Thanks to Toni S. and her service dog, Cali for visiting her too. The compassion everyone showed Irene in her final days will always be appreciated.

Her family also thanks Fr James Paisley, pastor of St. Therese's in Shavertown for responding to a call from the nursing home and going there on Palm Sunday evening to administer the Anointing of the Sick and to pray over her; preparing her for her final journey in life, which occurred the next morning.

As per Irene's request there will be no viewing and a private burial will be held with arrangements by Jendrzejewski Funeral Home, Wilkes-Barre. A Memorial Mass will be planned for a future date when family members will be able to attend followed by a celebration of her life.

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Mollie Z. Pierce

By Joseph Jendrzejewski • February 11, 2025

Mollie Z. Pierce, of Wilkes-Barre, passed away Monday, February 10, 2025, at the Gino J. Merli Veteran's Center, Scranton. Born November 18, 1924, in Waller County, Texas, she was the daughter of the late Hallie B. and Alice Wilson. Private funeral services will be held by the Jendrzejewski Funeral Home, Wilkes-Barre.

James A. Wasilewski

By Joseph Jendrzejewski • February 10, 2025

The world is sadder today. James Wasilewski, 73, of Plains passed unexpectedly on February 6, 2025 with his loving wife Dyann at his side. Born July 6, 1951, in Wilkes-Barre, he is the son of the late Stanley and Eva Lebioda Wasilewski. He was a graduate of Marymount High School in Wilkes-Barre. As a Kodak partner for over 30 years, he shared his expertise to help perfect products for global markets. As a successful entrepreneur, Jim was the founder and CEO of Comprehensive Microfilm and Scanning Services, Inc. Jim was a firm but kind boss and a leader who always looked out for the welfare of his employees. He was well respected in the industry. Serving his community was a hallmark of Jim's legacy. For over 30 years, he was a dedicated and involved board member of the Deutsch Institute, an organization that was near and dear to his heart, serving as Vice Chairman of the Board. In his retirement, he devoted his time to building beds for Sleep in Heavenly Peace and spent time making pierogies for a local Polish church. People admired his selflessness and generosity. One of the joys of his life was traveling with his wife and son to most of the Caribbean Islands, Panama, Europe, and South America. He most recently fulfilled his dream to visit Poland and embrace his heritage. He devoted his life to his family and community and was one of the world's best storytellers and friends. He was a man of faith who cared for everyone among him. Jim was a force to be reckoned with, and quick with a smile. His infectious sense of humor and easy laugh were a joy to those who had the pleasure to know him. Jim was a creative problem solver and could fix anything. He always took a hands-on approach and continuously put others first. He is survived by his loving wife Dyann, with whom he celebrated 48 years of marriage, and their son Jason (Washington, DC), as well as cousins and countless cherished friends. In addition to his parents, Jim is preceded in death by his brothers Thomas, Henry, and Raymond. Family will receive friends and relatives from 5:00 to 7:00 PM on Tuesday, February 11 at Jendrzejewski Funeral Home, 21 North Meade Street, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702. A mass of Christian burial will be held at 10:00 AM on Wednesday, February 12 at Our Lady of Hope Parish, 40 Park Avenue, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702. Officiants will be Fr. John S. Terry and Very Rev. Fr. Lucian Urbaniak. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations in Jim's memory can be made to St. Joseph's Center, 2010 Adams Avenue, Scranton, PA 18509.

James R. Verdekal Jr.

By Joseph Jendrzejewski • January 23, 2025

James R. Verdekal Jr., 70, passed away peacefully following a long illness. James was born October 26, 1954, in Wilkes-Barre to the late James and Noreen Payne Verdekal Sr. He attended G.A.R. Memorial High School, Wilkes-Barre. James worked and learned his trade in roofing while working with his father at J.R.V. Home Improvement Company and eventually started his own business, First Quality Construction. James was an avid hunter. He also coached flag football and softball teams. His greatest love was his garden in which he took pride in. He loved western movies especially John Wayne and M.A.S.H. He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Victor Verdekal; and sister, Rosaria Deangelo. Surviving is his son, James R. Verdekal III; daughter, Suzanne Noone; companion, Pam Aftewicz; and siblings, Ann Harden, Andrew Verdekal, Lucretia Sokoloski, Deandrea Verdekal, Vincent Verdekal, and Freddy Verdekal. Funeral services will be held Tuesday at 10:00am at the Jendrzejewski Funeral Home, 21 North Meade Street, Wilkes-Barre. The Reverend Vincent Dang will be Celebrant. Interment will follow in St. Mary's Cemetery, Hanover Township. Friends may call Monday evening from 5:00 to 8:00pm.