Joanne Schrader

Joanne (Pepe) Schrader, 81, of Duryea, prior lifelong resident of Pittston Township, passed away peacefully at the home of her daughter and son-in-law in the early morning hours of Oct. 12, 2025.

Born in Pittston on June 15, 1944, she was the daughter of John and Catherine Russo Pepe. She was educated within and graduated from the Pittston Township school system. Upon graduation, Joanne was employed by various dress factories as a garment worker until her retirement.

Joanne never strayed far from her Pittston Township roots, building a house with her husband Frank on the land adjacent to her parents' home. She lived there until December 2019, when she moved to Duryea to reside with her daughter and son-in-law. Joanne was known for her love of vacations, especially to Virginia Beach, dancing, shopping for the latest fashions, and, most importantly, her family. She will be greatly missed by her daughter and her "favorite" and only son-in-law, John, who she loved like a son.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Edward "Frank" Schrader; nephew, Dominick Pepe; "fur daughter," Lexie; fiancé, William Wash; and her beloved brother, Dominick Pepe, who recently passed.

Surviving are her daughter and "best girl," Tracy Labrosky, and son-in-law John; sister-in-law, Dolores Pepe; niece and goddaughter, Lisa Pepe; nephew, Anthony Pepe, and wife Judy Bonk; and several great-nieces and nephews.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Kiesinger Funeral Services. A viewing is scheduled at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 18, in Queen of the Apostles Church, 715 Hawthorne St., Avoca, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:30 a.m., with Father Thomas Petro officiating.

The family would like to extend their gratitude to Dr. Mauer Biscotti for the wonderful care he provided to Joanne throughout the years and Hospice of the Sacred Heart for the compassionate and loving care they provided to Joanne as she approached her end of life.