Robert J. Spager

Robert J. Spager, 62, of Dickson City, passed away early Wednesday morning, at Allied Services Hospice Center, in Scranton. He and his wife, Deirdre “Dee Dee” Durkin, celebrated 39 years of marriage, on June 22nd.

Raised in Dunmore, Bob was the son of the late Frank and Margaret “Peggy” King Spager. He was a dedicated member of Mary, Mother of God Parish, in North Scranton. A graduate of the former Bishop O’Hara High School, Bob earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Scranton and an MBA from Marywood University. Prior to his retirement, he worked for Fox-56, as part of the Wolf pack.

Bob was a loving and caring husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend who will be greatly missed. He was known for his warmth, humor, and dedication to his family. Bob treasured spending time with loved ones at the beach, creating countless memories. He had a passion for the Christmas season, which was evident in his beautifully decorated home. He took delight in baking, especially during the holidays; his specialties were kolache and blueberry pies. One of the highlights of Bob's life was taking his family to Ireland, the land of their ancestors. This journey was a cherished memory. A fan of the Eagles, Bob had a lifelong appreciation for live sporting events. He was a longtime member of the Ancient Order of Hibernians, JFK Division 1, and The Friendly Sons of St. Patrick.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Emma Rubin, Dr. Harish Lavu, Dr. Kishori Veerabhadrappa, Dr. Gregory Habig and the team of GI doctors at Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia; as well as staff at Geisinger CMC and Allied Services Hospice Center, for their care and compassion.

He is survived by his children: Robert and wife Katherine, of Throop; Siobhan Spager-Yatko and husband Justen, of South Abington Township; and Colin and girlfriend Abbey, of Dunmore. He also leaves behind four grandchildren: Robert and Oliver Spager, and Grace and Maggie Yatko. Additionally, he is survived by three brothers: Jack and wife Cindy, of Peckville; Frank and wife Maria, of Dunmore; and Bill and wife Cheri, of Old Forge, as well as nieces, nephews, and cousins.

The funeral will be held on Tuesday from the Carlucci-Golden-DeSantis Funeral Home, Inc. in Dunmore with a Mass of Christian Burial at 9:30 AM in Mary, Mother of God Parish at Holy Rosary Church, 316 William Street, in Scranton. Interment will follow in the Dunmore Cemetery. Friends may visit on Monday at the funeral home from 4 PM to 6 PM.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, an organization that was close to the Bob’s heart.