On August 18, 2022, after a year long battle with pancreatic cancer, Rocco F. Yanora, 88, of Wyoming, fell asleep in the Lord and entered into eternal life.
Rocco was born in 1934 in Nova Scotia, Canada and came to the United States with his family at the age of 11. He was a member of the G.A.R. Class of 1952 and went on to serve four years in the United States Air Force, receiving an Honorable Discharge.
He attended Stonehill College where he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts Degree. He later received his Master of Science Degree from the University of Scranton.
Rocco was a teacher in the Wyoming Area School District where he taught Latin, French and the Social Sciences. After retiring, he enjoyed volunteering with many local organizations, including the American Red Cross, Hospice of the Sacred Heart, Meals on Wheels Wyoming Valley and St. Vincent DePaul Kitchen.
Rocco was a member of St. Barbara’s Parish in Exeter, where he served as a Lector and Extraordinary Minister of Communion. He was a man of great faith and attended mass daily until his failing health no longer permitted him to do so.
Rocco was preceded in death by an infant daughter, Lynn Ann; brothers Ralph Yanora, John Yanora and Louis Yanora. He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth, and daughter, Jacqueline Eldridge, both of Wyoming; sisters Carmel Kunis, Rahway, N.J.; Mary Louise Byndas, Palmyra, PA; and Rosemary Pilch, Warrior Run, PA; numerous nieces and nephews.
Rocco wanted to express the following upon his death: Whatever good I did, whatever I accomplished, whatever of lasting worth, I attribute to the grace of God and the influence and assistance of the many wonderful people God placed into my life. Whatever my faults and failings, I attribute solely to myself. Anyone whom I might have inadvertently or unjustly offended through human weakness, I beg forgiveness. “I have fought the good fight. I have finished the race. I have kept the Faith.” Please remember me when you come to God’s altar.
Rocco’s wife and daughter would like to thank Father Paul McDonnell for his spiritual guidance and friendship, especially during Rocco’s illness. They would also like to thank their neighbors and friends. You have all become our family and support system during this past year. We will be forever grateful for your kindness, compassion and prayers.
Private funeral services will be held with arrangements entrusted to Adonizio Funeral Home, LLC, 251 William Street, Pittston. Memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105-9959.