Obituaries

Loretta (Niemiec) Rook, age 95 and a lifelong resident of Old Forge, passed away Thursday at Regional Hospital of Scranton. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, John F. Rook, on April 28, 2009. The couple celebrated 57 years of marriage.
Born on March 5, 1925, and daughter of the late Peter and Catherine (Wogjtowich) Niemiec, Loretta attended Old Forge High School. A lifelong seamstress and a member of the I.L.G.W.U., she worked in the local garment industry prior to her retirement.
A faithful Roman Catholic, Loretta and her husband John together were pillars of St. Michael’s Church in Old Forge, prior its closure. She was a member of St. Michael’s choir, served on various church committees and participated in all church fundraisers.
Loretta will never be forgotten for her kindness and humble nature. Selfless and giving, she would do anything for anyone, often sacrificing for others before herself. She loved entertaining, was always dressed so well, and had an infectious smile endearing to all who met her. She’ll forever be missed.
She is survived by loving nieces, nephews and the dearest of friends.
The last of nine siblings, she was also preceded in death by brothers, Roman, Chester, John, Michael, Walter and Thaddeus Niemiec; and sisters, Anna Niemiec and Mary Stachnick.
A Mass of Christian Burial is scheduled for Tuesday at 9:30 AM at Holy Rosary Church at Nativity of Our Lord Parish, 127 Stephenson Street, to be celebrated by Rev. John Polednak. Pastor. Burial will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery in Old Forge.
Those wishing to attend the funeral are asked to go directly to the church.
During these unprecedented times, Loretta’s great nieces and nephews in New York wanted to extend their sincere gratitude to Rose Loggans who has been a blessing to both Loretta and her family. They would also like to thank the Petrofsky family for always taking such great care of Loretta and treating her as their own. Your friendship and love kept her going and we will be eternally grateful.
Arrangements are under the care of the Thomas P. Kearney Funeral Home, Inc., 517 North Main Street, Old Forge.