Elvera A. "Vera" Strunk

Obituary of Elvera A. Strunk

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Elvera A. "Vera" Strunk, 84 years old, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on March 4, 2026, at Phoenixville Hospital, surrounded by her family.

Born in Phoenixville, Pennsylvania, Vera lived a life full of love, laughter, and meaningful relationships. She was preceded in death by her husband of over 45 years, Robert W. Strunk Sr., and her parents, Frank and Amelia (Calcinore) Sciallo.

Vera graduated from Bishop Kenrick High School before starting her career. She worked for 20 years at Vanguard, contributing her dedication and skill with pride. Later, she became the welcoming face for grieving families as a greeter at Shalkop Grace & Strunk Funeral Home and brought joy to customers and colleagues during her time as "Ms. Vera the coffee lady" at Wawa. She was always able to remember names, stories, and make everyone feel valued.

Family traditions were especially important to Vera. She loved hosting Sunday dinners and holiday gatherings, with the Feast of Seven Fishes on Christmas Eve being one of her favorite times to bring everyone together--filling her home with warmth, laughter, and love. Just don't touch her dish towels.

Her zest for life extended beyond work and family. She loved to dance and play music filling every room with rhythm, joy, and celebration. Vera also loved the beach, spending many summers with her children in Ocean City, NJ, enjoying the boardwalk for Bob's Lemonade and fries, and frequent trips to the Showboat Casino.

Vera is survived by her children: Cheryl DiNardo, wife of the late Mario Jr.; Robin Forster, wife of Daniel "Danny"; Monica Gerace, wife of Allen; and Robert "Bobby" W. Strunk Jr., husband of Dodi; her sister Carol Bednarczyk wife of Stanley "Butch", who in recent months shared many "happy hours" on the phone enjoying their favorite cocktails, Dirty Martinis and Miller Lites; her beloved grandchildren; Mario DiNardo (Amy), Natalie DiNardo, Daniel Forster Jr. (Emily), Kassandra Forster, Alec Forster, Robert E. Strunk, Liam "Max" Strunk, Madison Gerace, Allen Gerace, Jr. and Elizabeth "Lizzy" Strunk who vow to always play the "happy birthday song" in her memory; and her cherished great-grandchildren; Mario IV, Nevin, Piper, Amelia, Oliver, Raegan and Cooper. She is also survived by many very special nieces, nephews, and extended family members who loved her dearly.

The family would like to extend special thanks to Lorraine, who started as a caretaker but became a loving friend to Vera during her final months, offering comfort, companionship, and devotion.

Visitation will be held Tuesday March 10th, 6:00–7:30 PM at R. Strunk Funeral Home, 400 Main Street, Phoenixville, PA. Additional visitation will be on Wednesday March 11th, 9:30–10:45 AM at St. Joseph's Church 3640 Schuylkill Rd. Spring City PA, Funeral Mass at 11am, celebrated by Rev. Father Charles O'Hara. Internment to follow in the Limerick Garden of Memories.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Joseph's Church in her memory. Arrangements are being handled by the R. Strunk Funeral Home. Online condolences can be made at www.rstrunkfuneralhome.com