Ted J. Gans

Ted J. Gans, 90, of Hazleton died peacefully Thursday in Wilkes-Barre General Hospital.

Ted was a lifelong resident of the Hazleton area, born to the late Joseph and Anna (Raffe) Gans Jan. 6, 1932. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 65 years, Betty Jane Gans; a sister, Lorraine Halko; and brothers, Joseph Gans and Edward Ganc.

He is survived by children, Deborah Zavitsky and her husband, James; Denise Miller and her husband, Charles; Ted Gans II and his wife, Cynthia; and Jayne Ann Krieger and her husband, Kevin. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Brian Zavitsky and his wife, Colleen; Brad Zavitsky and his companion, Jennifer; Joshua Miller and his companion. Carrie; Ted Gans III and his wife, Victoria; Courtney Gans and her companion, Dan; Landon Gans and his fiancé, Taylor; and great-grandchildren, Sydney and Michael Zavitsky.

In addition to spending time with his wife, children, grandchildren and close friends and neighbors, Carol Mylet and her late husband Marty, there were two places Ted found great joy in life: on the water and high above the clouds. Ted's lifelong career and love of flying spanned over 60 years. He was a certified flight instructor and, prior to retirement, was employed as the chief pilot for Correale Construction, Central Penn Industries and Pagnotti Enterprises. He served on the Hazleton Municipal Airport Commission for many years. He spent countless hours casting a line from his boat, enjoying every moment with family and friends on the lake in Gananoque, Ontario Canada, and fishing on the lake in White Haven.

Ted was a humble, kind-hearted man who defined the word gentleman. He was loved by all, is missed, and will remain forever in our hearts.

The family wishes to thank all those who prayed and cared for Ted during his last days. Interment will be at the convenience of the family and a celebration of life will be held at a future date.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorials be made to the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (www.nfwf.org).

Krapf & Hughes Funeral Home – Crematory is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolence messages may be entered in the family's memorial at www.kh

funeralhomes.com.