John E. Smolinski, 65, of Nanticoke, passed away Thursday, July 3, 2025, at Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center, Wilkes Barre.

Born February 20, 1960 in Nanticoke, he was a son of the late John and Emily Cook Smolinski.

He graduated from John S. Fine High School, class of 1978. He enlisted in the United States Army, where he attained the rank of Private First Class, before his honorable discharge in 1982.

John was an avid fisherman and a fan of the Pittsburgh Steelers. He enjoyed shooting pool and dressing as Santa for the holidays, where he had such a great likeness and surely brought joy to many children. He was a member of the Honey Pot Club, the American Legion Post 350 and the Fraternal Order of Eagles in Nanticoke.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, William Smolinski Sr. in April of this year, and a nephew, William Smolinski Jr. in 2016.

John is survived by his sister, Jacquelyn Smolinski, and her partner Joseph Kowalchin; his nephew, John Smolinski; his niece, Kristin Spencer, her husband David and their daughter, Kacey; and his sister-in-law, Charlotte Smolinski.

A Memorial service will be Tuesday, July 15th, at 7p.m. from Dinelli Family Funeral Home, 170 East Broad Street, Nanticoke, with Pastor Jacob Claypoole of Nebo Baptist Church, Nanticoke, officiating.

Visitation hours will be 5 p.m. until services begin.