Robert J. Bonikowski,70, of Hazleton passed away Wednesday, April 22, 2020 at Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center following a lengthy illness after suffering a stroke.

Born July 8, 1949, he was a son of the late Stanley and Helen Wielgorz Bonikowski. He was raised in Glen Lyon and attended the former Newport Township High School. He proudly served with the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam war.

Early in life Robert was employed at the Wanamie Colliery and later as a butcher at Hazle Park Quality Meats, Hazleton for many years.

He belonged to the former St. Denis Church, as well as the American Legion Post and VFW in Glen Lyon and was an avid fisherman.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Karen Wasenda and brother, Stanley Bonikowski Jr.

Surviving are his children, Melanie Bonikowski of West Wyoming, Lea Bonikowski of Philadelphia and Robert Bonikowski of Hazleton; granddaughter, Justice Bonikowski and grandson, Jude Yelland; his twin sister, Linda Jenkins and husband, Dawson of Alden; sister, Nancy Zubritski and husband, Daniel of Myerstown as well as nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held at St. Adalbert's Cemetery, Glen Lyon at a later date.