Obituaries

Joseph E. Birch, age 89, a resident of The Jewish Home of Eastern Pennsylvania, passed away Friday evening at Scranton’s Regional Hospital. His wife, Mildred Lillian Collins Birch, preceded him in death on July 16, 1968.
Born on March 22, 1928 and son of the late Joseph and Irene Nola Cherry Birch, Joseph was a selfless, caring and thoughtful person who had a playful personality and an amazing sense of humor. Above all was his family and God, however, and he will always be missed by his family and friends.
He is survived by four loving children, Joseph and Theresa Birch, both of Scranton, John Pawliczak of New Hampton, New York, and Joanne Pawliczak of Middletown, New York; five adoring grandchildren, Cheryl Dysard and Kristie, Jennifer, Amanda and Melissa Birch; 8 great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
Sisters, Marian Kernahan, Louise Bates and Shirley Birch also preceded him in death.
A Blessing service by Rev. Cyril Edwards, Pastor of Mary, Mother of God Parish, is scheduled for Wednesday at 7:00PM at the Kearney Funeral Home, Inc., 125 North Main Avenue, Scranton. Relatives and friends may pay their respects from 5:00PM until services.