Joseph Robert Pisklak

Joseph Robert Pisklak, 82, of Catia La Mar, Venezuela, and formerly of Coaldale, perished in a fire when his residence burned on March 25, 2009.

Born in Coaldale, Joseph was a son of the late John and Sophia (Hesteric) Pisklak.

Joseph graduated from Penn State University with an Engineering Degree in Dairy Husbandry. While living in Maracaibo, Venezuela, building and operating dairies, Joseph and his wife, Sara, founded and administrated Robert's School, a U.S. curriculum, Pre-K through 12th grade private school, which operated for over 20 years.

Joseph served in the United States Army in the European Theater of Operations during World War II and received an honorable discharge with the rank of sergeant.

Joseph was a member of the former SS. Cyril and Methodius Catholic Church, Coaldale; the Coaldale VFW; the Lansford AmVets and the Lions Club in Venezuela. Joseph was an avid sailor.

Surviving him are his former wife, Sara (Ilgen) Treftz of Siloam Sprinks, Ark.; a daughter, Capt. Patricia Ann Lucas (USN) Retired, of Molokai, Hawaii; a son, Joseph Pisklak Roberts and his wife, Peg, of Seaford, Del.; a sister, Margaret Roxandich and her husband, George, of Pottsville; nieces and nephews.

Siblings John, William, Caroline and Helen preceded him in death.

Service: Mass of Christian Burial, 11 a.m, Saturday, April 14, St. Katherine Drexel Catholic Church, Lansford, with the Rev. Kenneth Medve officiating. Interment, with military honors, SS. Cyril and Methodius Cemetery, Nesquehoning. Memorials in his name may be made to the Tamauqa American Legion, C.H. Berry Post 173, 206 W. Broad St., Tamaqua. Onlineregistry at www.zrgfuneralhomes.com