Obituary: Florence J. Sverchek (May 24, 1930 - August 1, 2006)

Florence Sverchek,76, of 601 East Ridge Street, Lansford died August 1, 2006 at the residence of her daughter Marcia, and son-in-law, Jack Richards of Slatington, with whom she resided during her illness. She was the widow of Captain Martin Kalista who passed in 1962. Florence was later married to Al M. Sverchek.

She was retired from the Panther Valley School District. She previously worked at Costello's restaurant in Coaldale, the Dinner Bell restaurant in Nesquehoning and Bright's store in Lansford.

Born in Lansford, she was the daughter of the late Joseph and Anna (Gawlik) Baran. She was a member of SS. Peter and Paul's Catholic Church, Lansford and was active in the choir. She was a graduate of St. Ann's High School.

Surviving are her daughter and son in law, son Joseph Kalista and 2 grandchildren, Elizabeth and Andrew of Barnesville.

Sisters: Lorretta Granger of Allentown and Sister Joselle of Shenadoah, along with her dear friends.

She was preceded in death by sisters Agnes Sterusky, Marion Filmon, Stella Lake, Catherine Bortnick, and seven brothers, Stanley, Michael, Mitchell, John, Rev. L. Joseph, A. Paul and Joseph.

Florence demonstrated her love of life through her radiant smile, enjoyment of simple pleasures and wish for everyone to "have a good day". She was engulfed by the unconditional love given by her faithful golden retriever companion. She was instrumental in sharing her joy and spirit by providing encouragement to other cancer survivors. She was often heard saying " Have faith in God" and "Don't give up". Florence wanted to express her sincere thanks for the excellent care and love she received from numerous health care providers throughtout the Lehigh Valley, especially her "family" at the Lehigh Valley Women's Center Center of Allentown.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held a t 10 o’clock A.M., Saturday August 5, 2006 from SS. Peter & Paul R.C.C. 213 East Bertsch Street Lansford, Pa. Calling Hours will be from 8:30 A.M. to 9:30 A.M. on Saturday morning from the Holmes – Griffiths Funeral Home, 200 East Bertsch Street Lansford, Pa., and Friday evening from 7:00 to 9:00 PM.

Contributions: To Lehigh Valley Women's Cancer Center 1611 Pond Road, Suite 101, Allentown, PA 18104 in care of the Nursing department.

Online Condolences and Registry Book maybe signed at www.griffithsfuneralhomes.com