John W. Latsko, Sr., 78, of Walnut St., Ashland, passed away October 16th at the Geisinger Shamokin Community Hospital, Coal Township.  Born in Big Mine Run, October 24, 1941, he was the son of the late John Joseph and Sophie Hendricks Latsko.  He was a graduate of the former Butler Township High School, Fountain Springs, class of 1959.  A veteran of the U.S. Navy, he served as a “Tin Can Sailor”, on the Navy Destroyers:  USS Dealey DE-1006, and the USS DD 841.  After his honorable discharge from military service, he worked for Strict Trailers as a shop foreman, and later as a self-employed carpenter until his retirement. He was a member of St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Parish, Ashland.  John enjoyed listening to music from the 50’s, Classic Country of the 60’s, and had taught himself to play the harmonica and guitar.  He especially loved family get-togethers, decorating for Christmas, solving Sudoku puzzles, as well as being able to provide a lap for his many cats to nap on.  John was a lifelong Yankees fan and an avid fisherman.  His happiest times were in his “waders” standing in hip-deep in the river, or even better, gathering up his dad, brother, and his cousins and taking the boat out for the day to sit back, fish, and enjoy the outdoors.

Preceding him in death was a sister Elaine Patricia Gownley.

Survivors

Son:  John William Latsko Jr., and Leighann, Ashland

Son:  William “Billy” Michael Latsko, and Angie, Girardville

Brother:  Lawrence Latsko, and his wife Cheryl, Elysburg

Niece:  Patricia wife of Michael Vanek, Knoxville, TN

Niece:  Rachele wife of Robert Neidig, Mt. Carmel

Nephew:  Lawrence Latsko Jr., Elysburg

Grandnephews:  David, Nathan, and Sean

Grandniece:  Christine

Great Grandniece:  Mackenzie

Granddaughters:  Gina and Julie, and many cousins

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial, Friday, October 23rd, at 10 AM, in St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church, 11th and Walnut Sts., Ashland.  Celebrant will be Rev. Francis Iroot.  Interment with military honors will follow in the New St. Mauritius Cemetery, Ashland.  A viewing will be held in the church starting at 9 AM until Mass.

Memorials may be made to St. Charles Borromeo Parish, 1115 Walnut St., Ashland, PA.  17921.  Visit www.Fritzfuneralhome.com.  The Richard W. Fritz Funeral Home, Ashland, is in charge of arrangements.