MOUNTAIN TOP — Bernard Robert Gurka, 69, of Mountain Top, passed away on Wednesday, July 12, 2023, at his residence.
Born in Reading, Pa., he was the son of the late Adolph and Mary Ann (Steblar) Gurka. He was a 1972 graduate of Marian Catholic High School in Hometown, Pa., and then from Ryder Technical in Allentown. He retired after working for 40 years in the bio-medical department of Wilkes-Barre General Hospital. In retirement he enjoyed playing golf, and the fellowship of his brothers in the Knights of Columbus. Bernard was a leader of Boy Scout troop 60, and was an avid Eagles, Penguins and Penn State fan.
Surviving are his wife, the former Susan Besitka; twin daughters: Arlene and Janet; along with a son, Bernard; and grandson, Rhys; his brother, Edward Gurka; and cousin, Daria Steblar Kartsonas. Several nieces and nephews also survive.
Friends are invited to attend the Mass of Christian Burial on Monday, July 17, at 10 a.m. at St. Jude's Church in Mountain Top. Friends may also visit the family from 9 a.m. until the beginning of Mass at the church. Interment will follow in Calvary Cemetery, Drums.
McCune Funeral Service is assisting the family with the arrangements.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Jack McNertney
December 18, 2024
Bernie, aka "stretch", was always there for the Scouts. I still remember all our camping and canoeing journeys. Thanks for being a great leader, volunteer, Dad and friend. May you always rest in peace.
Jack
Alanah
July 22, 2023
Shocked & saddened to hear of Bernie´s passing. He was a genuine pleasant man who was always willing to lend a hand. He loved sharing stories of the many happy memories he created with his family. May God bless and comfort you and guide you through this unexpected loss.
Mary Slaby
July 19, 2023
To the Gurka family: Please accept my sincere condolences on the passing of your husband and father. Bernie was a classmate from Marian Catholic, class of `72. We enjoyed a nice conversation at our 50th reunion last year. He was such a genial guy, gone much too young. Prayerfully, Mary Garrity Slaby
Cathy Garinger
July 19, 2023
So sorry for your loss. Worked with Bernie many years at WBGH. Always ready to help.
Betsy Evans
July 19, 2023
Suzy,
I'm so sorry to hear this.
My prayers are with you and the family.
George Diabes
July 18, 2023
Very sorry to hear of Bernie's passing. He was a great classmate at Marian (72) and friend.
Kim
July 17, 2023
I´m so sorry for the passing of your loved one. I worked with Bernie for many years, kindness is one thing I will always remember.
Ken Viechec
July 17, 2023
Bernie you were a constant fixture at the wbgh. We had so many good conversations, I miss your company. No doubt we will see one another again. My prayers for Susan, Arlene,Janet, and Bernard and Rhys. God Bless you and comfort to you all in overcoming this loss.
Rose Geiser
July 17, 2023
I´m so sad to see this. I knew Bernie from General Hospital. Then when we moved to Mountain Top, I was so happy to see him at St Jude´s. I´m surprised by his passing. Sending prayers and sincere condolences to Bernie´s entire family.
Mitch Mogilski
July 17, 2023
Dear Suzi and family,
So sorry to hear about your loss, know that you are in my thoughts and prayers I am sorry I just heard about this, I would have been there today if I would have known sooner. Bernie was a great guy and will be remembered by all.
Judy Lucchino
July 16, 2023
Sincere condolences to Bernie's family. His caring personality added to the positive moments at WBGH. May he rest in peace.
Linda Fuller
July 15, 2023
Sending prayers for your family. Saw him often when I worked at General. He was always so kind.
John and Karen Szczepanski
July 15, 2023
Bernie was quick with a smile, and it was a pleasure to be in his company. We will miss him, and may God grant him eternal peace. Our sympathy to Susie and his family.
Robert Murphy
July 15, 2023
Bernie was a great guy and a very good friend. I enjoyed playing golf with Bernie both individually and in tournaments. He always had good things to say about everyone and was a wonderful Minister of Hospitality at St Jude church along with his brother Knights. My condolences go out to Susie and his family. May God bless.
John and Anne Henry
July 14, 2023
So sorry for your loss. Bernie was a great help when mom and dad were in the hospital. He checked in on them during their stays. Made us feel better about them being there. He was a kind man who brought positive energy into the world. Sorry you are gone. God bless you all.
Alyson Culver
July 14, 2023
What a wonderful guy. I´m so sorry for your loss. Please know your family is in my thoughts and prayers.
Jack McNertney
July 14, 2023
Whether camping, hiking, canoeing or backpacking, Bernie was there for not only his kids but other young men and women. He was a good friend in scouting. I can honestly say he was a good friend. He will surely be missed. Rest in peace Bernie.
Georgia
July 14, 2023
Sorry for your loss. I always looked forward to meeting in the halls and sharing a few words about our family. Bernie always had a smile and kind words. Deepest sympathy and prayers.
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