Gerald Pitkus

Gerald (Jerry) Pitkus, 78, of Tunkhannock passed away Thursday, September 5, 2024 at Hospice of the Sacred Heart, Dunmore. He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Jennie (Baumann) Pitkus.

Born on July 31, 1946 in Shenandoah, he is the son of the late Frank and Mary (Mizzer) Pitkus.

Jerry honorably served in the United States Navy, enlisting in 1966, where he was stationed in Beeville, Texas. There, he used his skills to instruct fighter pilots with a flight simulator.

He was a 1964 graduate of Mahanoy High School, and furthered his education at East Stroudsburg University, earning a degree in philosophy in 1973. Jerry's passion for helping others led him to pursue a master's in social work from Marywood University in 1981. For 39 years, he served as a social worker, first in Stroudsburg and later in Tunkhannock, dedicating himself to the well-being of children. Jerry was also a skilled tax preparer, working at H & R Block for 15 years.

Known for his witty humor and strong work ethic, Jerry was a loving father and an all-around good guy who touched the lives of many. He had a deep appreciation for travel, often exploring new destinations with his wife, Jennie, creating cherished memories along the way. One of the holiday traditions that brought him joy was the annual viewing of "It's a Wonderful Life" at the Dietrich Theater.

Jerry was also an avid runner, successfully winning numerous 5K races throughout his life. He would often place as one of the top finishers in his age group.  Additionally, his deep appreciation for music made him a devoted fan of the Lynn Church concerts. He also enjoyed attending various concerts throughout his life.

Jerry lived a good and full life and left the world a better place.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by daughter, Amy David and husband Adam; son, Michael Pitkus; brother, William Pitkus; sister-in-law, Hildy Morgan and husband Gary.

The family would like to extend a special thanks to Hospice of the Sacred Heart for the care they have extended to Jerry and his family during their time there.

Family and friends are invited to attend Jerry's blessing service which will be held on Saturday, September 14, 2024 at 11:00 AM from the Sheldon-Kukuchka Funeral Home, 73. W. Tioga St., Tunkhannock, PA 18657 with Rev. Francis Pauselli presiding. Interment with full military honors will be held in Sunnyside Cemetery, Tunkhannock.

A visitation will be held from 10:00 AM until the time of service on Saturday.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in Jerry’s name to Dietrich Theater, 60 E. Tioga St., Tunkhannock, PA 18657 or Hospice of the Sacred Heart, 30 E.D. Preate Drive, Suite 108, Moosic, PA 18507.