Catherine Joan Gidaro

Catherine Joan (Dobeck) Gidaro, age 96, of 219 Hillside Ave., Elysburg, died 6:55 p. m. Thursday, October 31, 2019, in her home surrounded by her loved ones.

Born in Ranshaw on July 2, 1923, a child of the Great Depression. She was a daughter of the late Frank and Helen (Spudeck) Dobeck.

Last memories of Catherine are simple: a hardworking, passionate figure of strength who never waned in her support or love for her family, and who soldiered on even when times were tough. Catherine loved unconditionally and built her world around her family.

On July 19, 1947 in St. Anthony's Church, Ranshaw, she was married to the love of her life, Joseph V. Gidaro, with whom she enjoyed 72 years of marriage.

She was educated in St. Anthony's grade school and was a graduate of Coal Township High School. She worked as lead pattern maker and seamstress for the former Shroyer's Dress Factory in Shamokin.

Family was Catherine's passion and delight, she loved spending summers and holidays with them. Playing bingo was her favorite pass  time. She also enjoyed gardening, was a wonderful cook, and an avid reader.

Catherine is survived by her husband of 72 years, Joseph V. Gidaro; a daughter, Sherry, wife of Bruce Carmel, Bloomsburg; three grandchildren: Lori and her husband Joseph G. Shiskowski, Shavertown; Joseph J. Kelley, and his wife Jamie, Palmetto, Fla.;  and Sara Carmel, Delray Beach, Fla.; seven  great-grandchildren: Olivia Moore, Joseph B. Shiskowski, Rebecca Estus, Reagan Kelley, Elizabeth Kelley, Noah Spaeth, and the youngest member, Isabella Laracuente-Carmel.

She was preceded in death by her great-grandson, Nicholas Moore and  her three siblings: Mildred Dormer, Eleanor Kaleta and Edward Dobeck.

The family wishes to thank all those who tenderly and passionately cared for Catherine during her last days.

She was a powerful and loving woman who left her mark in an unassuming  way. Catherine will be missed greatly by us all.

Catherine requested an intimate memorial at her home for the immediate family.

Arrangements were entrusted to the care of the Dean W. Kriner, Inc., Funeral Home & Cremation Service, 325 Market St., Bloomsburg.