Obituaries

John J. Golden, age 86, a longtime resident of Old Forge, passed away Sunday evening at Allied Terrace in Scranton, after an illness. On February 14, 2011, John was preceded in death by the love of his life, his wife of 45 years, Joan (Durkalo) Golden. The couple are now reunited.
An Avoca native, John was born on February 22, 1937 to the late William and Mary (Mayock) Golden. A graduate of the former Avoca High School, he worked for 30 years for Plainwell Tissue Company in Ransom, prior to his retirement.
A devoted Roman Catholic, John was a longtime member of the former St. Lawrence O’Toole Church in Old Forge where he volunteered in many ways, including serving as a weekly usher. Loved by all who knew him, he will long be missed.
He is survived by is brother-in-law, Michael Durkalo of Olyphant; his sister-in-law, Theresa Behenek and husband Walter of Taylor; and many nieces and nephews.
The last of the Golden siblings, he was also preceded in death by brothers, Jack and James Golden and a sister, Jean Renzi.
A private blessing service by Rev. August Ricciardi will be from the Thomas P. Kearney Funeral Home, Inc., 517 North Main Street, Old Forge, with burial following at the Cathedral Cemetery.