Francis Durkin, 85, of Avoca, passed away on Monday, November 6, 2017 at Geisinger Wyoming Valley Hospital, Wilkes-Barre. He was born in Avoca, May 30, 1932 and was the son of the late Phillip and Margaret (McCall) Durkin.
Francis was a member of Queen of the Apostles Parish, Avoca. He was a 1950 graduate of Avoca High School. He joined the United States Army and served during the Korean War. He worked for the Road and Bridge Department of Luzerne County until his time of retirement. Francis was a loving husband, father, brother, and friend and will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his sister, Joanne Durkin Halsema and brother-in-law, Les Halsema, and his pet dog, Molly, whom he adored.
He is survived by his wife of 42 years, the former Elizabeth (McIntyre) Durkin; his sons, Phillip of Philadelphia and John of Avoca; and many nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be held on Thursday, November 9, at 9:30am from Kiesinger Funeral Services Inc., 255 McAlpine St., Duryea with a mass of Christian burial at 10:00am at Queen of the Apostles Church, Hawthorne St., Avoca with Fr. Phillip Sladicka officiating. Friends may call on Wednesday evening, November 8th from 5-8pm. Interment will be held at St. Mary’s Cemetery, Avoca.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the SPCA Of Luzerne County, 524 E. Main St., Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702.