Thomas J. Petrash, age 88, of Columbia Avenue, Bloomsburg died on Thursday, November 22, 2012 a resident of Orangeville Nursing and Rehabilitation Center since January. Tom was a resident of his home in Bloomsburg for over 58 years.
Tom was born on Sunday, September 21, 1924 in Coaldale, a son of the late Frank and Susan (Petko) Petrash. He was a member of the 1941 Graduating Class of the Coaldale High School. Following his high school education, he attended the Temple School of Pharmacy where he graduated in 1952.
On February 26, 1943, Thomas enlisted in the United States Navy where he served as Pharmacist's Mate Second Class aboard the U.S.S. Sloat in Penarth, Wales during World War II. During his dedicated time of service, he received the decorations of the European Theater Ribbon, the American Theater Ribbon, the Pacific Ribbon, the Good Conduct Ribbon and the Victory Medal. After returning from his active duty, he became the operator of the former Rea & Derick Pharmacy on Main Street in Bloomsburg for 35 years. He was a member of the St. Columba Catholic Parish, a Life Member of the Tamaqua Elks Lodge #592 and also a member of the Bloomsburg American Legion Post #273. Tom always enjoyed spending time with his family and friends, and he especially loved cheering on his favorite football team the Penn State Nittany Lions.
Surviving is his beloved wife of over 61 years, Margaret (Yasenchak) Petrash. Also surviving is a daughter: Susan Mangiaracina and husband, Anthony, of Newtown, PA; a son: Thomas J. Petrash and wife, Nancy, of Annandale, VA; a grandson: Matthew Mangiaracina, and many nephews and nieces. Toom was the last surviving member of his immediate family.
A time of Visitation for family and friends will be held on Sunday, November 25 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Allen Funeral Home, Inc. 745 Market at Eighth Street, Bloomsburg. Wake Services will be held on Sunday evening at 5:30 p.m.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, November 26 at 11 a.m. from the St. Columba Catholic Church, 342 Iron Street, Bloomsburg, with Monsignor Robert E. Lawrence, celebrant. Graveside services will immediately follow in the New Rosemont Cemetery, Espy. A combined group of American Legion/VFW will provided Military Honors.