Mary Sickler

Mary Sickler passed away from COVID-19 pneumonia on Jan. 2, 2021. She was 81.

She was born July 3, 1939, the daughter of Philip and Alice Veety Smalser. "Mert," as she was known to her many friends, spent her life at Lake Winola and Osterhout, Pennsylvania.

For years she was a loved, sometimes feared, teachers' aide in Mill City Elementary School before transitioning into a much-loved and very indulgent Grandma to Everett and William Park, Michael and Matthew Sickler, and Eleanor and Duncan Trombla.

She was a joyful card player, and loved games of all kinds. She was an enthusiastic traveler. Whether to a new state or country, or just a trip to Tunkhannock, she was ready to go at a moment's notice and up for anything.

Mary was a great cook. For a long time, she made the clam chowder for the Lake Winola Fireman's Carnival, and she helped to orchestrate many church dinners at the Lake Winola United Methodist Church. There were always cookies and a chocolate mayonnaise cake baked when the kids were visiting. She taught us the delights of "greebies," "sugar bread," and what should be included on a good snack tray.

Mary loved her family and friends. She loved her "Red Hats." She loved her church. She loved jelly beans, jokes and a cozy blanket. And we loved her for that and more.

A few years ago, Mary began to show signs of memory loss. This was devastating for her despite the love and support of her family and friends. Laugh when you can, cry when you need, and be as honest and as compassionate as you are able with your loved one, each other and yourself. And please wear a mask.

Mary is survived by her husband of 60 years, Janaye; her children, Rebecca Park; Robert Sickler and wife, Cindy; Amy Sickler Trombla and husband, Alan, and their children; her siblings, Ruth Eyet; Robert Smalser and his wife, Florence; Ann Smalser and her spouse, Patricia Cherego; sister-in-law, Linda Adams, and their families.

A memorial service will be held at a future date when we can gather safely. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the charity of your choice.

Arrangements and care entrusted to Sheldon-Kukuchka Funeral Home Inc., 73 W. Tioga St., Tunkhannock, PA 18657.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the charity of your choice in Mary's name.

Please visit the funeral home website to share memories or extend condolences.