Obituaries

Edward W. Kolesar (Hubby Wheeler), 87, of Old Forge, passed away peacefully on Monday August 7, 2018. He is survived by his beloved wife of 57 years, Anita (Pennella) Kolesar.
Born in Swoyersville on May 13, 1931, he was the son of the late Joseph and Helen Yakabovicz Kolesar. He was affectionately known as “Hubby Wheeler” in his youth and to his hometown friends. He attended Swoyersville schools and was honorably discharged from the US Army prior to the onset of the Korean War, attaining the rank of Corporal. Ed retired from McKinney Mfg. as a professional welder.
Being an exceptional athlete, during his younger years he played in various slow pitch softball leagues and bowling leagues. He excelled in his favorite sport, golf; playing most golf courses in Northeast PA and Florida. He also scored the coveted “hole in one”.
Throughout his life, Ed’s passion was gardening and manicuring his lawn. Becoming known for his flavorful garlic, he generously shared his harvest with family and friends. When he wasn’t gardening, he could be found in his basement or garage working on one of his many projects.
He was a member of St. Mary of the Assumption Church, Prince of Peace Parish, in Old Forge.
He loved his children and grandchildren to no end. He is survived by his daughters, Angela Hassick and husband Michael of Mechanicsburg, Linda Rowlands and husband David of West Pittston and Lisa Kolesar, at home; his adored grandchildren: Breanne Hassick, Brice Rowlands, Brett Hassick and Mitchell Rowlands; his sister-in-law, Mildred Wheeler; and numerous nieces, nephews, grand-nieces, grand-nephews, Godchildren, cousins and longtime friends.
He was predeceased by his siblings: Rita Brandt, Joseph Wheeler, and Helen Lukacinsky; his father-in law, Angelo Pennella; his brothers-in-law, Joseph Pennella and Robert Lukacinsky; and countless friends.
The family would like to thank Dr. Kenneth Sebastianelli and his staff for the years of care given to Ed. The Hospice of the Sacred Heart In-Patient unit should be commended for the emotional, spiritual and compassionate care shown to Ed and his family in his final days.
As per Ed’s wishes, there will be no funeral or calling hours. A blessing service by Rev. August Ricciardi will be held at Old Forge Cemetery Chapel with interment to follow in the family columbarium.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Edward’s name to Hospice of the Sacred Heart, c/o 100 William St., Dunmore, Pa., 18510.
Private arrangements are under the care of the Thomas P. Kearney Funeral Home, Inc., 517 North Main Street, Old Forge. Please visit the funeral home’s website to leave an online condolence.