Frank W. Birster

Frank W. Birster, 89, of Ashland, passed away October 7, 2021, with is family at his side, at his daughter’s home in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania.  Born in Locustdale, he was the son of the late Charles and Veronica Schneider Birster.  He was a graduate of the former Connyingham High School, Aristes. Following high school, he owned and operated his own ice cream business, with five trucks during the 1960’s and early 1970’s.  He later became the Grocery Manager for the former Anthony’s Supermarket, Frackville, later becoming T.J. Barts Market, working there until retirement.  Frank was a parishioner of the former Saint Mauritius Roman Catholic Church, Ashland, until its closing.  He attended the newly formed Saint Charles Borromeo Catholic Parish, Ashland.  Upon moving to Bethlehem, he became a member of Notre Dame Church, Bethlehem. Frank was a member of the Sarto Council of the Knights of Columbus, holding several positions including Grand Knight, American Hose Volunteer Fire Company, serving as vice president, Ashland Fire Police, Ashland Rotary Club, and the Area Meals on Wheels, all of Ashland. He actively participated in the Ashland Area Historical Society, and the Born For This Choral group.  He was an active donor to the Hillside S.P.C.A., Pottsville, and the Ashland Boys Association parade fund. Preceding him in death was his wife, Suzanne Simon Birster, passing in 1980, and brothers, Charles, George, and Gervase “Moxie” Birster.

Survivors:

Daughter:  AnnMarie Birster and wife Marisa McGinley, Bethlehem

Son:  Joseph Birster and his wife Kathryn, Philadelphia

Sister:  Elizabeth “Dolores Birster” Goodman, Bellevue, Nebraska.

Nieces and Nephews

Best pup:  “Shadow”

Estranged spouse:  Marlene Uhrin Birster, Ashland

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial, Wednesday, October 13, 2021, at 11 AM, in the Saint Charles Roman Catholic Parish Church, 11th and Walnut Streets, Ashland.  Celebrant will be Rev. Brian M. Miller, pastor.  Interment will be in the New Saint Mauritius Cemetery, Ashland.  A viewing will be held in the church, 10 AM until Mass.  Memorials may be made to Hillside S.P.C.A., Hillside Road, Pottsville, PA  17921.  Visit www.Fritzfuneralhome.com.  The Richard W. Fritz Funeral Home, Ashland, is in charge of funeral arrangements.                                       

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