Louis V. Forlenza
- Peter J. Adonizio
- Oct 11
- 3 min read
Louis V. Forlenza, 85, of West Pittston, passed away on Thursday October 9, 2025 in Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center.
He was born in Pittston the son of the late Louis J. Forlenza and Sophia Petrello Forlenza.
A life long West Pittston resident, Louis graduated from the former West Pittston High School, where he played in the orchestra and marching band. Afterwards he attended Wilkes-Barre Business College where he received a degree in business administration. He also served in the U. S. Army Reserves (402nd M.P.- P.O.W. Camp) where he reached the rank of Staff Sergeant.
Lou was first employed by Pagnotti Coal Enterprises in the Administration Office. After a few years he transferred to the Federal Government with the Federal Aviation Administration of Wilkes-Barre, Scranton International Airport, Avoca. After several years he was re-assigned with the F.A.A. to the Capitol City Airport in New Cumberland, PA. He later accepted a position at the VA Medical Center in Wilkes-Barre, where he was the chief contract specialist. He also served as the President of the VA Employees Welfare Association. He retired with 29 years of Federal Government service.
In retirement he worked part time at the YMCA of Greater Pittston. After a year he worked at the East Mountain Appt. Complex as well as Gateway Apts. serving residents there as a shuttle drive, etc. He left after seven years reminiscing about all the friends he made.
He was a former member of the Loyal Order of the MOOSE, West Pittston and the West Pittston Hose Co. #1. He was also a faithful member of Corpus Christi Parish formerly Immaculate Conception Church, in West Pittston. He served as treasurer of the Holy Name Society for several years. He was presently a member of St. Anthony’s Church, Exeter. He served both churches as a Eucharistic Minister for a combined 26 years.
Lou loved people and everyone who knew him loved him as well. He was kind spirit with a big heart, a good sense of humor and a timeless smile who was reliable, hardworking and trusting. He lived his life genuinely according to his values and his actions spoke volume.
He enjoyed painting and also took great pleasure in keeping a lovely and well-manicured yard throughout his life. He took great pride in decorating for the holidays and assisting anyway he could in the neighborhood. Lou loved all things Christmas it was his favorite time of year. He didn’t stop until the house was sparkling inside and out. His holiday home amazed all those who entered. He especially looked forward to family gatherings with his wife, children, and grandchildren. When relaxing he enjoyed Sudoku and word find puzzles.
Lou was the soul mate and devoted husband to his wife the former Lois Oliver for 62 years. They were married on Thanksgiving Day she was his high school sweetheart and the love of his life. They especially enjoyed the cruises and other trips taken together throughout the years as well as their usual Saturday night dinners at one of their favorite dining places. He was a committed family man of immense faith and will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered as his spirit lives on in the hearts of his family and friends.
In addition to his loving wife Lois, he is survived by his children, son, Louis A. Forlenza, Exeter, son, Lee J. Forlenza and his wife Lisa, Exeter, daughter, Lynn Marie, West Pittston, two dear grandchildren; Dominick, Brentwood, New Hampshire and Kayla, Columbia Missouri; brother-in-law Karl J. Oliver and wife Cynthia, Milford, De., sister-in-law, Sharon Oliver Gold, Burke, Va., as well as nieces, nephews, and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his maternal parents Arthur and Lenore Jones Oliver; his sister, Marilyn F. Fessler, his sisters-in-law; Janes S. Landau and Mary A. McGinty; brothers-in-law, George Fessler, Julius Landau, John P. McGinty and his dearly missed pet Heidi.
The family extends their gratitude and appreciation to the staff at Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center for the Care provided to Lou.
The family will receive friends and relatives Monday October 13, 2025 from 12noon-1PM in St. Anthony of Padua Church, Corpus Christi Parish 224 Memorial St., Exeter. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 1PM, The Rev. Paul A. McDonell will officiate.
Private entombment will be held at the convenience of the family in Denison Cemetery Mausoleum, Swoyersville.
In Lieu of Flowers, the family request memorial donation be made in his memory to Care and Concern Ministries Corpus Christi Parish or the Oblates of St. Joseph 1880 Rt 315 Hwy, Pittston, PA 18640.
Arrangements are entrusted to Adonizio Funeral Home, LLC -Pittston.
Lois and family,
We are very sad for your loss. Louis was a wonderful man. Lois, we worked private duty for a woman named Jennie, years ago. I hope you remember me because I will never forget your kindness when my mother passed away. May God bless you all with Peace.
Lois, Lee, Lynn and family,
Jamie and I were so saddened to hear about the passing of Louis. Even though we didn't see him often, we remember him for his genuine warmth – he never failed to ask about our lives and well-being. Beyond that, he was always willing to lend a helping hand to Vito's grandparents, which spoke volumes about his giving spirit. We know his absence will be felt deeply. Please accept our deepest condolences. We pray for the repose of his soul and for all of you.
VJ and Jamie Forlenza
I remember Lou from our parish which was Immaculate Conception but it now Corpus Christi. Lou was a great guy, and his sister Marilyn was also the best. They both did a lot for the church. I will miss Lou he was so kind, and we will miss him terribly. RIP Lou the Forlenza family is in our prayers.
Lee,Lisa and family so sorry to hear about your dad. He was a wonderful man