Obituaries

Joseph “Zang” Golembeski, age 81, of Old Forge, passed away Friday at home. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 41 years, Jean “Chi Chi” Golembeski, on October 4, 2007.
Born in Scranton on May 18, 1940, son of the late Konstantine and Natalie (Kotarski) Golembeski, Joseph attended West Scranton High School before serving in the U.S. Coast Guard prior to his 1966 Honorable Discharge.
During his four years in the Coast Guard he learned the trade of welding, a trade he mastered and practiced until his retirement at age 79. He worked for Empire Landfill before working for Latona Construction for 22 years before his retirement.
Of Roman Catholic faith, he was a longtime member of St. Michael’s Roman Catholic Church in Old Forge before its closure and was a current member of Prince of Peace Parish.
Known as “Zang” to many, he was a talented woodworker who could make something out of anything. He was also a die-hard New York Yankees fan who’d never miss a game.
Joseph was a man of few words with an extremely dedicated work ethic. He never spoke a bad word about anyone and he was extremely devoted to his faith. Above all else came his family and simply being with them meant everything to him. Particularly proud of his three grandchildren, he never missed a sporting event, dance recital or any other important event in their lives. Dearly loved, he’ll forever be missed.
He is survived by his loving family, children Lori Chromey and Joseph Golembeski, both of Old Forge; grandchildren, David and Kiera Chromey and Danielle Golembeski; and many nieces and nephews.
The last of five siblings, he was preceded in death by brothers, Walter and Edward Golembeski, and sisters, Bertha Brygider and Loretta Polizzi.
Funeral services are scheduled to begin on Tuesday at 9:15 AM from the Thomas P. Kearney Funeral Home, Inc., 517 North Main Street, Old Forge, with a 10:00 AM Mass of Christian Burial at St. Mary of the Assumption Church, Prince of Peace Parish, to be celebrated by Rev. August A. Ricciardi, Pastor. Interment will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery, Old Forge.
Family and friends may pay their respects on Monday between 4-7:00 PM at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Joseph’s name to the American Cancer Society c/o PO Box 22478, Oklahoma City, OK 73123