Obituary of Josephine Mary Kotch

Josephine Mary Havrilchick Kotch January 26, 2015 Josephine M. Kotch passed away peacefully on Monday, January 26, 2015 at home with her husband next to her side. Through her loving, caring, compassionate selfless nature, she provided a fine example on how to lead a meaningful life. She was dedicated to enhancing the lives of family and friends. As a visionary Home Economist, she strived to improve the lives of local families through her column, "Katching up with Kotch" and her "Eating for Less" program. Born on September 14, 1929 in Luzerne, she was the daughter of the late Stephen and Sarah Bogdon Havrilchick. She was a graduate of Luzerne High School class of 1947. She also earned a BS degree in Home Economics from Business Drexel University, Philadelphia. Prior to her retirement she was employed as Director of Penn State Cooperative Extension service of Luzerne County and before that she was an interior designer for Fowler, Dick and Walker and Isaac Long Store. Josephine received two awards; 1985 Distinguished Service Award from the National Association of Home Economists and 1971 Artistic Arrangement trophy from The Side Flower Club. She was a member of Holy Family Church, Luzerne; Red Hat Society; PA Association of Home Economists; President of St. John's Mother's Club and 1969- 1980 West Side Flower Club. She was preceded in death by her parents; sisters, Helen Stankus, Jean Surash, Alfreda Surash and Genevieve Stravinski; brother, John Surash and nephew Joseph Stankus. She is survived by her husband of 56 years, Joseph R. Kotch; children, Linda Ruhlman and husband Dave of Berwyn, PA.; Joseph R. Kotch, Jr., of Reedsville, PA.; Paul M. Kotch and wife Sheri of Keller, TX.; grandchildren, Jake Ruhlman, Chris Kotch, Max Ruhlman and Marissa Kotch and nieces and nephews. Funeral will be held on Saturday at 9:30 am from the Betz-Jastremski Funeral Home, Inc. 568 Bennett St. Luzerne with a Mass of Christian Burial at 9:30 am in Holy Family Parish, Luzerne. Interment will be in Mount Olivet Cemetery, Carverton. Friends may call on Friday from 5-7 pm at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers memorial donation can be made to PEAFCS, a scholarship for continuing nutritional education. Mail to: Penn State Extension Office 16 Luzerne Ave. West Pittston, Pa 18643. To light a virtual candle or leave a message of condolence for her family, please visit www.betzjastremski.com.