Alfred D. Pantuso Sr.

It is with great sadness that the family of Alfred D. Pantuso Sr. announces his passing. He was surrounded by his children and died peacefully after a courageous battle with health issues.

Al was born in Dunmore in 1937 to the late Caroline Unione Pantuso and Dominick Pantuso. He was a graduate of Dunmore High School. Al worked for Associated Transport and Roadway Express, driving trucks for many years at the start of his career. He went on to be a successful businessman owning and operating a Texaco gas station, Pantuso Motors and Al's Place flea market. Al was a longtime member of The Elmhurst Country Club and belonged to St. Eulalia's Parish. He was married to the late Judith Galenas Pantuso for 58 years.

He is survived by his son, Al Jr., and life partner Marisa Litwinsky of Clarks Summit; two daughters, Francesca and life partner Armand Olivetti of Roaring Brook Twp., Maria and husband Gareth Klotz, Tampa, Fla. He considered himself blessed with his only grandchild, Gareth Girard Klotz whom he adored. Also surviving are his brother, John Pantuso, Dunmore; and sister, Marie Mirabelli of Tunkhannock. Along with many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.

He was also preceded in death by sisters, Rose Ann Lalley and Barbara Simon.

Al always considered Dunmore to be "home" and could often be found at the homestead where he knew there would be a pot of sauce, a fresh batch of chicken soup and a lot of love. Family gatherings were one of his favorite things. He lived for his wife and children and created cherished memories from his hard work. He was a car enthusiast which started at a very young age. He was in his element at the Atlantic City car show, Carlisle or any local car shows. When he saw a car he was interested in, he would say "She's a looker!" He has an extensive, unique antique car collection of his own. He would love it when people would stop by the showroom to look and talk about them. No one was a stranger. Everyone was welcome. His saying at work was "It's a family thing." His saying in life was "Keep moving forward! Ya gotta keep going!" He went to work seven days a week but never worked a day in his life because he loved what he did.

The family would like to thank Joanne Gallia for her support during the last year. You were our eyes, ears and advocate when we couldn't be with him.

The funeral will be Thursday with Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. in St. Eulalia's Church, 214 Blue Shutters Road, Roaring Brook Twp. Friends may call on Wednesday from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Morell-LaBelle Funeral Home, 301 Chestnut St., Dunmore.

In lieu of flowers, a donation in memory of Al can be made to a memorial scholarship set up in his name at Johnson College's Automotive program.