Obituaries

James “Gabs” Joseph Michaels, age 90, a lifelong resident of Scranton, passed away Wednesday evening at home. He is survived by his wife of 46 years, the former Josephine Driebe.
Born on January 13, 1921, son of the late Fayad and Montura George Michaels, James was a graduate of the former Scranton Technical High School, Class of 1941. A superb athlete, he earned All-Scholastic and All-State accolades as a member of the football, basketball and baseball teams. Upon graduation, he attended the University of Scranton. He was a self-employed owner and operator of a produce business and co-owner of Center Men’s Shop. He was a devoted member of Saint Ann Maronite Church in West Scranton and its Holy Name Society. He was an Army Veteran of WWII, where he had earned numerous medals including the WWII Victory, Good Conduct, American Campaign and the European African Middle Eastern Campaign with 5 Bronze Stars. James was a member of the American Legion Post 675.
He was an avid fan of the Boston Red Sox and the Notre Dame Fighting Irish.
A loving husband, father, and grandfather he died peacefully at home surrounded by his family.
He is survived by his daughters, Marianne Bamford and husband Richard of Royersford and Susan Lorenzetti and husband Kevin of Scott Twp., two beloved grandchildren, Gabriella and Anthony Bamford, and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by two brothers, Joseph and Albert Michaels and six sisters, Alice Michaels, Anna Deeb, Frieda Shaer, Jessica Palutis, Mary Amodie and Abbey Michaels.
Funeral services will begin on Monday at 10:00AM from the Kearney Funeral Home, Inc., 125 North Main Avenue in West Scranton, to be followed by a 10:30AM Liturgy and Committal Prayers in Saint Ann Maronite Church, 1320 Price Street in West Scranton, to be concelebrated by the Very Rev. Francis J. Marini, Pastor, and Rev. Alex J. Hazzouri. Military rites will be conducted by the AMVETS Honor Guard.
Interment, Sacred Heart Cemetery.
Relatives and friends may pay their respects on Sunday between 3-7:00PM at the funeral home. Incense services will be held at 6:30PM.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in James’ name to Saint Ann Maronite Church (c/o 1320 Price Street, Scranton, Pa. 18504).