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BORN
1939
DIED
2025
Bernadine Kolessar Obituary
Bernadine Kolessar, 85, formerly of West Wyoming, passed away peacefully March 5, 2025, in the presence of family at the Wesley Village skilled nursing facility.
Born in Nanticoke on July 19, 1939, she was the daughter of the late Joseph and Angeline Cheshelski. After graduating from Nanticoke Area High School, Bernadine worked briefly in Washington, D.C., before returning home, where she met her soulmate and the love of her life, Michael Kolessar. They married in 1959, made their home in Pringle, and together raised four children.
Michael and Bernadine relocated to West Wyoming in 1999. She held several positions throughout her life and retired from Maternal and Family Health Services to devote time to her family. Above all, she was most proud of being a wife, mother and grandmother.
Bernadine and Michael enjoyed a life of adventure. Dancing, travel — especially to beach destinations — and even tobogganing down Pringle Hill during snowstorms, filled their years together. A devout Catholic, Bernadine was a member of St. Mary's Byzantine Catholic Church in Kingston.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, Edward.
Left to cherish her memory are her devoted husband of 65 years, Michael; sons: Michael (Diane), David (Mary), and Jeffrey (Michelle); and daughter, Theresa Bullock. She will also be greatly missed by her grandchildren: Elizabeth Hassett and Michael Kolessar; Alex and Jake Kolessar; Stephanie Bullock; Madison, Ashley and Kaitlyn Kolessar; and great-grandchildren: Hayley and Graham Hassett.
Bernadine's family would like to extend their gratitude to the staff of Wesley Village for the exceptional care given during her final years.
Friends may call from 9 to 10 a.m. Saturday in St. Mary's Byzantine Catholic Church, 321 Chestnut Ave., Kingston. The Byzantine funeral liturgy will immediately follow the viewing at 10 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Bernadine's memory to Wesley Village, 209 Roberts Road, Pittston, PA 18640.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Bernadine Kolessar
6 Entries
Carmella and James Selingo
March 16, 2025
Our condolences to husband Michael and family members upon the passing of wife and mother Bernadine. May you forever cherish her memories and may she rest in peace
.
Kathie Girard
March 13, 2025
Dear Mike,
My deepest sympathy on the passing of your sweet Bernie. I am keeping you in my thoughts and prayers with fond memories of the friendship the three of us shared throughout our years at MFHS. May God bless you and your family and give you comfort through this difficult time.
Bob Cunningham
March 13, 2025
I had the pleasure of working with "Bernie" for many years at MFHS. An absolute sweetheart. Always a smile, kind and helpful to everyone. She and Mike made a beautiful couple and raised a family they deeply loved. I extend my very sincere condolences.
Father Jim Paisley
March 12, 2025
Dear David and Mary, my heartfelt sympathy at the loss of your beloved mother. May the many kindnesses of her life accompany her into the warm and loving embrace of God. May she rest in peace.
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