Obituary of Robert A. Ketz

Robert A. Ketz, 71, of Ransom Township, passed away Saturday October 27, at Hospice of the Sacred Heart, Dunmore. His loving wife is Kathleen (Maline) Ketz and was at his side until the end.  Together Bob and Kathy celebrated their 48^th wedding anniversary on October 10.

Born in Scranton, he was the son of the late Leonard and Irene Morris Ketz. At the age of 15, Bob attained the rank of Eagle Scout. He attended Scranton Schools and graduated from Johnson School of Technology. He faithfully served our country with the US Army, serving a tour in Frankford, Germany. During this time, Bob,  was decorated with the National Defense Service Medal.  Bob retired from Cascade Paper and Tissue, Ransom, where he was employed for 30 years as a machine mechanic.  Bob was a devoted member of The First United Church of Christ, Scranton, where he served on the church council, sang in the choir and volunteered many hours maintaining the church and the parsonage. When Bob was not gardening, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, and riding his ATV.  He was a true country man.  Bob was a member of the Union Lodge, 291 F&AM and was a founder of the Boulevard Cruisers.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by a brother, Ronald L Ketz and wife, Dolores, S. Abington Twp.; a sister-in-law, Elizabeth Hynoski and husband, Dr. Raymond, Stroudsburg; two nieces, Debra Hynoski, E. Stroudsburg and Holly Sebastian and husband, Atty Michael, Waverly; a nephew, Barry Ketz and wife, Lori, Peckville;  two furry companions, Freddie and Lucy; a devoted friend of 50 years, who was so caring during Bob’s illness, Nicholas DeRoma, Dickson City.

He was preceded in death by Josephine DeRoma, whose friendship was a blessing and his furry friends, Molly, Penny and Sally.

Bob’s wife would like to extend her deepest gratitude to everyone at Hospice of the Sacred Heart, Dunmore, especially Maureen, Mary Ann and Jennifer. She would also like to acknowledge Hematology and Oncology for their outstanding care and compassion, especially Dr. Kishori, nurse Sarah and the nurses in the treatment room. A special gratitude to Dr. J. Charabati for his care and concern throughout the years. 

Family and friends are invited to attend Bob’s Memorial Service on Saturday November 10 at 11 a.m. at the First United Church of Christ, 132 N. Bromley Ave, Scranton, with Robert Cooper, lay pastor, officiating.  Friends may call Saturday 10 a.m. until time of service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the First United Church of Christ, PO Box 37, Taylor, 18517 or to Griffin Pond Animal Shelter, 967 Griffin Pond Rd, South Abington Township, PA 18411