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William Scranton
William Scranton
Obituary
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William Scranton Obituary
Scranton died of a cerebral hemorrhage Sunday night at a retirement community in Montecito, Calif., where he lived with his wife, a family spokesman said Monday.
Scranton, a progressive Republican from the northeastern Pennsylvania city named after his wealthy family, was elected to Congress in 1960. He served one term before he was elected as Pennsylvania's 38th governor in 1962.
His foray into presidential politics occurred in 1964, during his one term as governor, when he emerged as a moderately liberal alternative to conservative Arizona Sen. Barry Goldwater after New York Gov. Nelson A. Rockefeller dropped out of the race.
Scranton, who committed to the race barely a month before the national convention in San Francisco, lost the Republican nomination to Goldwater by a 4- 1 margin after a hoped-for endorsement from former President Dwight D. Eisenhower failed to materialize. In the general election, Goldwater lost to President Lyndon B. Johnson by a landslide.
"It is impossible to consider the short-lived Scranton campaign as a serious exercise in politics; but as an exercise in gallantry it may have saved the soul of the Republican Party," Theodore H. White wrote in his book, "The Making of the President, 1964."
A popular governor who was skilled in public relations, Scranton took advantage of a strong economy to reform the Pennsylvania Civil Service, double spending on education and increase the state sales tax from 4 percent to 5 percent. State spending increased by 38 percent during his administration.
Scranton, whose ancestors established vast holdings in iron, coal and railroads during the 19th century, was appointed ambassador to the United Nations in 1976 by President Gerald Ford. He served about 10 months in the post .
Although Scranton and his wife, Mary, spent much of their time in California in recent years, they also have a home in Waverly, Pa., near Scranton. They have four children. The oldest of their three sons, Bill Scranton, served as lieutenant governor under Gov. Dick Thornburgh for eight years.
The younger Scranton ran for governor in 1986 but lost to Democrat Robert P. Casey. He ran again in 2006 but dropped out of the primary race amid growing support for former Pittsburgh Steelers star Lynn Swann, who won the Republican nod but lost the general election to Democratic Gov. Ed Rendell.
PETER JACKSON, Associated Press
Copyright © 2013 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
73 Entries
Ray Allen
August 28, 2013
Many recall the funeral of a special man. As Bill, Jr. said, the church organ needed fixed; that was the tip of the iceberg. Our sincere gratitude goes to anyone & everyone whomever & wherever deliberately or inadvertently did anything to help make this a very special day. Our thanx & prayers obviously to those helping take care of Mrs. Scranton & so very many others. God bless 1 & all. Take care.
Jan McAndrew Henry
August 15, 2013
My deepest condolences to the Scranton family for their loss. I am truly overwhelmed by the scope of his accomplishments in life and the legacy he left behind for all of us. You see, I grew up on Lily Lake Rd just down the road from his home, and although at a young age I understood he was an important man, he never made you feel he was. Our little town of Dalton PA only had about 1200 residents so everyone knew everyone. Mr. Scranton would always smile and wave as he drove down the hill just like everyone did. In town to get his hair cut or to go to the post office, he always spoke to everyone and made you feel he was just a nice, regular guy. Well, we know he was and so much more but to a little girl at the time, that's what he was to me. My Dad was the only registered Democrat in town at one point and even he liked Mr. Scranton and,that is saying something!! Dear and kind sir, please know you left an indelible imprint on your little hometown,your country, the world and, yes, a young girl who lived on Lily Lake Rd.
Ronald Lewis
August 15, 2013
Susan and family,
Sorry to hear about your dad's passing. He and my dad, Danny, who died in 1974, were friends "back in the day". He was a progressive and effective leader, a real boost to PA and the Scranton area.
Ron Lewis, CSA '63
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Lisa Ormiston Ryder
August 14, 2013
I would like to express my deepest feelings of sorrow in midst of your grief. May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Peter Troyan
August 14, 2013
May God bless his soul. His life in public service will never be forgotten in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. The duty for man is the duty for God. I was reminded of this everytime I have met Governor Scranton. My prayers go out to his soul and to his family. He will be sadly missed.
August 13, 2013
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Michael Thomas
August 7, 2013
Our deepest sympathy goes out to Mary and her family for their loss.
Governor and Mrs. Scranton treated me with the most heart felt and geniune respect when I was lucky enough to have been asked to share a lunch with them one afternoon while working in Dalton. I will never forget the conversation and much more so, I will never forget what it was like to have met two of the kindest and most inspiring individuals in my career. Our prayers are with all of your family and friends.
August 2, 2013
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
elizabeth sher
August 2, 2013
A wonderful, kind and marvelous U.S. treasure has been taken from us. Governor Scranton was truly "A Man For All Seasons"-his entire life leaves loving memories to us all. I was his Secretary at the U.S. Mission to the UN - he fulfilled all expectations as a great Statesman. Gone, but never forgotten.
August 1, 2013
Maryla,
We are sorry for your loss. He was an outstanding man. Our prayers go to you and the Scranton Family.
John & Mary Kay (Barrett) Krupskas
Cindy Stauffer Collie
July 31, 2013
I grew up in Waverly/ Clarks Summit with the Scrantons and remember them very well. Such a wonderful family. I remember Governor and Mrs. Scranton being at our Thanksgiving football game sitting on top of the bus. My sympathy to the family.
Diamond
July 31, 2013
Wishing peace and love for the family. May the God who love all of mankind continue to bring the joy and happiness to William Scranton Family. (1 John 4:8)
Jon Myers
July 31, 2013
Peace to the Governor. I had the honor of meeting him, when I was a young lad. What stood out to me, was the gracious and warm, nearly majestic manner, in which he outreached to me as a young boy. I once visited his home and was struck by the number of telephones, along with other things. I recall times too, when he visited my home with his wife Mary, and occasionally his children. Governor, your life touched me, and I would fathom similarly many that you met, and even more that you did not meet. May the memory of your goodness live on, like this Guest Book permanently.
SANDRA & STEUART BAILEY
July 31, 2013
OUR THOUGHTS & PRAYERS ARE WITH MARY AND
ALL THE FAMILY. A TRULY GREAT MAN AND
ALWAYS A GENTLEMAN. IT WAS OUR PRIVILIDGE AND HONOR TO HAVE KNOWN HIM. REST IN PEACE.
Mary
July 31, 2013
Wishing peace for the family. What an amazing man. Wish there were more like him in this day and age. His life is truly something to celebrate. May the memories of his incredible life bring the family comfort.
July 31, 2013
Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever.
Ed Rillstone
July 31, 2013
One remarkable Scrantonian!!!!
Ray Bishop
July 31, 2013
Am sorry for your loss, will keep everybody in my prayers. God Bless
Wendy Lockwood
July 31, 2013
Dear Mary and children. Governor Scranton was such a good friend to our family and especially to my parents, Frank and Wegie McGlinn. My prayers are with you. Wendy McGlinn Lockwood
July 31, 2013
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
kenny feeney
July 31, 2013
Maryla I am very sorry for the loss of your fatherin law.
Mary Christine Walker
July 31, 2013
My deepest sympathy to the Scranton Family. Though I was just a little girl when Governor Scranton was in office, I have a new appreciation for him: I am quite positive that his high moral standards would never have permitted the sexual incidents that happen non-stop with so many of the men in the public spotlight today.
We need more like him RIGHT NOW.
With deepest sympathy,
rosanna v.
July 31, 2013
my deepest condolences to you, I have never met you, but my daughter will be attending the University of Scranton in September, and have only now been reading up on you and the town.... Amazing man, so sorry for your loss.
July 30, 2013
Dear Scranton Family and all who loved Gov. Scranton. I believe that ones life should be celebrated and tell others what this human being did with his life. I was fortunate to take care of his Aunt Rhoda Warren as she was a truly wonderful human being too, Gov. would come and visit her often and he was such a gentleman and so kind this is a quality hard to find today he never left without thanking me so much for all I did for his Aunt and I was never treated like staff or a nurse I was treated like family. My Dad was a Dem. firm but he loved Gov Scranton as he always called him neighbor Bill and that was what he was a neighbor to all. Enjoy your eternal reward you earned it.
Warmly Molly Fitzgerald Supanek
July 30, 2013
My deepest sympathy to your family. May our loving Creator grant you guidance, strength and comfort during this difficult time. He invites us to approach him in prayer, to pour out our heart to him. (Psalm 62:8)
joann paciotti mosher
July 30, 2013
I will always cherish the stories you shared with me and watching you and your wife dancing to the pa polka at the wedding in bethesda .I never met a finer man.
Faith Tobin
July 30, 2013
Dear Scranton Family hello there my name is FaithTobin and my condolences's to the Family.i'm sorry for the loss of William Scranton.luv,Faith
Professor Milburn Cleaver, OPA
July 30, 2013
Although I did not always agree with Governor Scranton, he was a true statesman and a gentleman. Congressman, Governor, Ambassador to the UN, the honors and offices were there in abundance. Any trust that the American people had it in their power to bestow on a man (with the sad exception of the Presidency), he was given. Rest In Peace.
July 30, 2013
MY CONDOLENCES TO THE FAMILY AND FRIENDS. MAY YOU BE COMFORTED BY THE TRUE GOD. PSALM 83:18.
Cliff Saxon
July 30, 2013
Pennsylvania has Lost One Of It's Greatest Statesmen. My Condolences To His Family, Friends, And To The People Of Pennsylvania For The Loss Of This Great Leader And True Statesman. Rest In Peace Governor Scranton!
James C. London SR.
July 30, 2013
God Bless the Family and Friends
James Willner
July 30, 2013
May the eternal light shine upon him.....
Judith Edsall
July 30, 2013
What a wonderful man! What a nostalgic reminder of what the Republican party of my youth was like, compared to its sad state today. We need men like William Scranton now more than ever. My deepest sympathy to the family.
DOUGLAS
July 30, 2013
GOVERNOR SCRANTON, YOU WERE A WONDERFUL GOVERNOR AND WE NEED A PERSON OF YOUR CALIBER LEADING OUR COUNTRY TODAY. I AM A FORMER US ARMY SERGEANT OF THE VIETNAM PERIOD AND I SALUTE YOU SIR. MY CONDOLENCES TO YOUR WONDERFUL FAMILY. YOU WILL BE MISSED AND MAY YOU REST IN PEACE.
July 30, 2013
Dear Mary &Bill
I am so sorry for the great lost. You are in our prayer. May the God of comfort be with the morning ones
Isaiah 61:2
July 30, 2013
LORRAINE MURSCH
MR. SCRANTON WAS THE GREATEST HUMAN BEING I HAVE EVER KNOWN. I FEEL SO BLESSED AND PRIVALEGED TO HAVE BEEN IN HIS COMPANY AND SERVE HIM. HIS PASSING LEAVES ME WITH A HEAVY HEART. MY PRAYERS GO TO HIS LOVELY FAMILY. I WILL ALWAYS KEEP HIM IN MY PRAYERS AND IN MY HEART. REST IN PEACE
a Voter
July 30, 2013
You were a light in the state and progressive in your thinking. Rest now. May the love of those around you give comfort to your family. Until we meet again
July 30, 2013
My condolences,2 cor..4:17,18
Leah Rudolph
July 30, 2013
Mary and family: Our hearts are broken along with yours. We've lost a true gentleman and friend. Love and God Bless you all at this difficult time. Ken & Leah Rudolph
Edward b (Woody) Ryder
July 30, 2013
One of the last rational Republicans, the Commonwealth has lost a favorite son, the nation a public servant of unique talent and poise,and the family an icon. God's speed Governor Scranton.
RICHARD GSCHEIDLE
July 30, 2013
I USED TO SEE GOVENOR SCRANTON WHILE WALKING AROUND THE COURT HOUSE.IF HE SAW A PIECE OF TRASH ON THE ON THE WALK HE WOULD PICK IT UP AND PLACE IT IN A CONTAINER. I COULD SEE HE WAS A GENTLEMAN AND PROUD OF THE CITY NAMED AFTER HIS FAMILY
July 30, 2013
My deepest sympathy to the Scranton Family, you are in my prayer's. I pray the Lord comforts you.
A great Governor and Ambassador from my great home state of Pa.
Marsha Kosh
Ft. Myers, Fl. ( Pittsburgh Area)
July 30, 2013
Mrs. Scranton & Family
My deepest sympathy of the loss of your husband & Father.
A great Governor from my great home state.
You are in my prayer's.
Marsha Kosh
Ft. Myers, Fl.
July 30, 2013
Prayers are with your family. I would like to thank you and your wife for the gift of your home to Geisinger. The facility saved my life, I am so grateful, thank you. Rest in peace
David Stolz
July 30, 2013
As a very young man I met Governor and Ambassador Scranton twice... He had gracious class. A true statesman... His type of man in politics rare. He signals the end of an era in so many ways. A time when unity,and articulation,and moderation was valued. Bless him and his family... May a perpetual light shine on him forever.
Dave McCormick
July 30, 2013
Great individuals seek to serve rather than to be served. Thank you for your service. It would have been easy to bask in the limelight of your family name. Instead, you made yourself available to the residents of the Commonwealth and the country. The Lord be with you!
Jane Yavis
July 29, 2013
A great Governor, from a great State, at a great time. Rest in Peace.
RoseMary Connors
July 29, 2013
To Mrs, Scranton and Family and Friends.
I am so sorry to hear and read about the passing of such a loving husband and dad . I worked in Harrisburg at the time that he was Gov.
He would joke and kid around with us . He treated all of us as his equal. That's what I liked about him the most .
Rest in Peace Bill . You are now with
God . Your strife is over .
RoseMary Connors
Pottsville,
Pennsylvania
John H. Spangler
July 29, 2013
Governor Scranton's gift to the American people was his strength of character.
July 29, 2013
Great Man! Rest in Peace.
Kenneth Hamilton
July 29, 2013
Dear Mrs. Scranton and Family:
Please accept sympathy on Ambassador Scranton's passing. He was a great Governor and an outstanding UN Ambassador under President Ford. He would have been a great running mate for Senator Goldwater in 1964 or for President Ford in 1976. I remember that picture of the President congratulating him on the appointment--President Ford smiling because he knew he had made such a good choice, and Ambassador Scranton smiling because he was glad to have the chance to serve. I am a Republican because of men like President Ford and Governor Scranton.
Sincerely,
Kenneth Hamilton
Sumter, S. C.
Aaron Smith
July 29, 2013
You will never be forgotten! Rest In Peace.
Governor Scranton with 1964 Convention Delegate
Adolph Schwarz
July 29, 2013
Lisa Adornato
July 29, 2013
Governor Scranton was in my Italian 101 class at the University of Scranton in the fall of 1988. He was such a pleasant, kind gentleman who treated even us 18 year old kids with respect. He left a lasting impression of how people should treat each other.
July 29, 2013
I am sorry to hear of your loss. Please accept my condolences.
Dwayne Bickham
July 29, 2013
in God's care rest in peace
Ray Allen
July 29, 2013
Sympathy & kindest regards to the Scranton family & very many friends wherever they may be. God bless 1 & all. Take care. Dr. George Wolf was a distinguished professor at Lock Haven State Teachers College & wrote the biography of Gov. Scranton some time ago. I started college in the summer of 1965. It's food for thought in this day & age, but my parents paid $150/semester. One of my regrets was that Dr. Wolf had moved on from the Woolrich tennis courts to Harrisburg & the Scranton Governor's office; therefore I barely missed the privilege of having Dr. Wolf as one of my professors. Folks like Gov. Scranton, Dick Thornburgh, Fran Barry, George Pott, Sr., Bob Fohl & so very many others among the best & the brightest served in the PA Constitutional Convention & made a great difference in Pennsylvania Government.
Marcia Kelly
July 29, 2013
Joe,
I'm sorry for your loss. I worked with you at KTWU in the 80s. Although I was in junior high, I remember your father well, as I'm from San Francisco, & my parents attended the 1964 GOP convention there. He was a great man, & his campaign was well organized. My prayers to your family.
July 29, 2013
My condolences to Mr. William Scranton friend's and family. I hope you all fine confort in the "god of all confort" -2 corinth1:3, 4
Kathleen Shotz
July 29, 2013
My condolences to the Scranton Family and strength for Mr Scranton's wife. She no doubt depended on him in the Nursing facility.
I had recently been reading the history online of this city I now call home.
R.I.P.
Governor Scranton and Dan Mosel, Harrisburg
July 29, 2013
Dennis Tabella
July 29, 2013
To the Scranton family, I am so sorry for your loss
William Scranton should have been President. He was smart, level headed, and a decent human being. Americans and the world missed a golden opportunity!!!
Frank Rich
July 29, 2013
I was a young elementary school student during Mr. Scranton's term as Governor, but I remember my Father talking about him at our home in Plum Borough. God rest both their souls.
Terri Zezza
July 29, 2013
We are so sorry to hear about the passing of Mr. Scranton. I never knew him or met him but he did a lot for our city. We will miss and his family is in our prayers. RIP Mr. Scranton you are now one of GOD'S helpers.
Mary Meredith
July 29, 2013
RIP Mr. Scranton. My deepest sympathy to the family......................
July 29, 2013
Bill Scranton was the greatest Governor in my lifetime and perhaps the greatest of all time. I was fortunate to have worked for his election as Governor and President and even more so to have he and Mary as friends. May his soul rest in peace. Dan Mosel
Blair Richards
July 29, 2013
My prayers are with Mr. Scranton's family. I grew up in Scranton. He was a true statesman. He would have made a good President. The Republicans in today's US Congress should look to him as a model for what good leadership should be.
Nestor Rivera
July 29, 2013
Dear Willian Scranton, my condolence and simphaty from; Nestor L. Rivera Jr., Bianca Rivera, Nahomy Rivera, Luis Anthonio Rivera, Natacha Rivera, Nethenio Rivera, Linnette Mary Rivera,Jeremia Rivera, De Angel Dominguez, Graciela Rivera, Grabiela Rivera, Marlin Rivera, Johnatan Rivera, Hale Rivera, Baby David Rivera, Nestali Rivera, Juliano Rivera, Tristan San Michael Rivera, Amanda Huertas De Rivera.Sinceramente,Nestor Luis Rivera Sr. P.O Box 937 Belden St Norwalk Ct 06852
Jessie Taylor
July 29, 2013
I can remember watching Governor Scranton dancing to the Pennsylvania Polka on television. I think this was 1964. He did a lot for Pennsylvania' My prayers are with his family.
July 29, 2013
Gov. Scranton
Thanks for the good fight. I was a Republican because of you, Gov. George Romney, Gov. Bill Milliken, President Ford, Gov. Rockefeller
, Congressman Jack Kemp, etc. Now I am a independent but I appreciated your leadership and your good fight.
Ross
Tampa
Becca Helen
July 29, 2013
Rest in peace, and my sympathy to his family and friends. This is a solid fact: You will not find a man like this in today's political climate. Godspeed, sir!
July 29, 2013
Our family will never forget Governor Scranton's kindness when our brother was shot down in Vietnam. Although we were notified at the time, we heard nothing for a week until he called our parents to tell him he was on board a naval vessel and being taken elsewhere for care. Knowing his condition and that he was out of Vietnam was a great consolation for all of us. (Never did see a video that was supposedly on television in parts of the state of Governor Scranton with my brother, Capt. (ret), William Sullivan from Elk County! May he rest in peace...
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