Bernadine H. Stroh

Bernadine H. Stroh, 98, of Nanticoke, passed away Thursday morning, December 11, 2025, at the home of her daughter, where she resided for the past 32 years.

Born August 25, 1927, in Plymouth, she was a daughter of the late John (1882–1960) and Helen Dziekan Zola (1885–1929), who emigrated from their native Galicia, Poland, in 1903.

She was a graduate of Plymouth High School, class of 1945.

Bernadine was a devoted homemaker and loving grandmother. She shared a special bond with her grandchildren, attending school and sporting events, helping them start their days, and always being there for the little moments that made life brighter. She loved to sing, and her joyful voice brought warmth to everyone around her. She had a special love for Sprite, always keeping a bottle close by, and she never missed an opportunity to enjoy a good hot dog—her simple joys were contagious. She loved and cared for everyone she met, earning her the affectionate nickname Babci from family and friends. She will be greatly missed, but the family finds comfort knowing she is now happily reunited with the love of her life, her husband John.

In 1960, Bernadine and John moved to Manville, New Jersey, so John could teach in the Bridgewater school district. After his retirement, they returned to Pennsylvania in 1992. While living in New Jersey, she was an active member of the Altar Rosary Society. She was a member of St. Faustina Kowalska Parish, Nanticoke.

In the later years of her life, Bernadine required care, and her daughter Joann, son-in-law Michael, grandchildren John, Erika, Michael, Christian, and Samantha provided round-the-clock support—whether it was watching TV with her, bringing her favorite Sprite, or assisting with daily care. Because of their love and dedication, she was able to remain at home surrounded by family. She also received physical therapy for the past seven years, and her therapist, Allie, “with the nice teeth,” became a dear friend and source of support, for which the family is profoundly grateful.

Bernadine also supported causes close to her heart. She was proud of her great-grandson, Ezio Ferruzza, who is a member of The A Team, a group for children with autism that provides socialization and safe, fun activities through the Wilkes-Barre YMCA. The program is run by Samantha, Christian’s wife, reflecting Bernadine’s lifelong dedication to family and community.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her siblings, Walter “Lefty” Zola, Mary Soha, Helen Paddock, Catherine Semcheski, Lydia Waiter, Anthony “Ely” Zola, Josephine Hudzik, Rose Pituch, John “Zuz” Zola, Stella Loskie, Florence "Flossie" Wanko, and her twin brother, Bernard Zola.

She is survived by her daughter, Joann Mavus, and her husband, Michael G.; grandchildren, John and his wife Erika (Eileen), Michael J., and Christian and his wife Samantha; great-grandson, Ezio Ferruzza; as well as many nieces and nephews.

Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 11 a.m., Wednesday, December 17, at St. Faustina Kowalska Parish, 520 S. Hanover Street, Nanticoke. Interment will follow in Mount Olivet Cemetery, Wyoming.

Viewing and visitation will be in the St. Faustina Chapel from 10 a.m. until Mass begins.

Funeral arrangements are in the care of Dinelli Funeral Home, 170 Broad St., Nanticoke, PA.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Bernadine’s memory may be made to The “A Team” group for children with autism via the Wilkes-Barre YMCA, Attention: Samantha Mavus.