Francis "Fritz" Gavaletz, 83, Pottsville entered into eternal rest Sunday, February 27 at his residence surrounded by his family.

Born August 19, 1938 in Pottsville, he was the son of the late Joseph and Anna (Verbosh) Gavaletz.

Fritz was a member of St. John the Baptist Roman Catholic Church, Pottsville.  He proudly served in the United States Air Force during the Korean War.  He was a life member and past Commander of AMVETS Post 180, Life Member of the West End Hose Co., and member of the Cressona Legion Post 286.

He was retired from Reading Anthracite, Wadesville where he worked as a truck driver.

In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by a sister in law Donna Gavaletz.

Fritz is survived by the love of his life, Joyce A. (Snyder) Gavaletz to who he would have been married to for 62 years this coming July 16.  He is also survived by children Francis "Butch" husband of Dale, Auburn; Mikaela, Pottsville; and Joseph E. husband of Monica, Pottsville.  He is also survived by grandchildren Adam, CA,  Aaron, WA and Katriona, England; 5 great grandchildren; brother, Joseph Gavaletz, Pottsville; and several nieces and nephews.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects Thursday March 3 from 9:30AM until 12:30PM at Schlitzer Allen Pugh Funeral Home 515 West Market Street Pottsville PA 17901.  Interment with military honors will be held at 2PM on the grounds of Indiantown Gap National Cemetery, Annville.

In accordance with Fritz' wishes, in lieu of flowers please consider contributing to the Hillside SPCA.