John J. Kilker

John J. "Jack" Kilker of Dunmore died Thursday at Community Medical Center after a brief illness. He was preceded in death by the love of his life, Elizabeth "Libby" Kilker, his wife of 58 years.

Born in Carbondale, son of the late John and Mary McGlynn Kilker, he was a graduate of Benjamin Franklin High School and the Johnson School of Technology. He was a member of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, Dunmore. Jack was a loving husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, who touched numerous lives with his kindness, wit and wisdom. His children and grandchildren adored him and will forever remember his loving care and all the good times making Grandpa's holiday punch. He was a talented and respected architect who worked on many local churches, schools and commercial buildings throughout the area. He was a Navy veteran of World War II having served in the Pacific theater and fought in the Battle of Okinawa. Jack was an inspiration to all who knew him for his love of life, his strong faith and his dedication to family. His commitment to the church, community and enduring work with the fellowship to which he belonged were his pride and passion.

Surviving are three sons, Dr. Mark J. Kilker and wife, Kathleen, Saylorsburg; Kevin M. Kilker and wife, Helen, Scranton; and Thomas E. Kilker and wife, Diane, Drexel Hill; three daughters, Mary and husband, Paul McHale, Clarks Summit; Eileen and husband, Raymond Giovagnoli, Waverly; and Elizabeth Kilker and husband, Attorney John Kennedy, Scranton; a sister, Janan Golden, Maryland; 17 grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews. He was also preceded in death by a son, John A. Kilker; two granddaughters, Colleen and Margaret Kilker; and two sisters, Eileen Sullivan and Evelyn Cook.

The funeral will be Monday from the Albert P. O'Donnell Funeral Home, 2025 Green Ridge St., Dunmore, with Mass at 9:30 a.m. in Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, 322 Chestnut St., Dunmore. Interment, St. Catherine's Cemetery, Moscow. Friends may call today, 2 to 5 p.m. Memorial contributions may be made to Scranton Catholic Social Services.