Elsie G. (Semelka) Wilkinson

Elsie G. Wilkinson (Semelka), of North East, PA passed away Tuesday, January 2, at UPMC Hamot at the age of 96. Elsie was born August 6, 1927, in Scranton, PA, the daughter of the late Wilhelm and Auguste Semelka. She was a lifelong resident of North East graduating from North East High School. Elsie married Richard G. Wilkinson on May 22, 1948, and they became successful grape growers as members of National Grape Co-operative on their farm in North East where they raised their two children.

Elsie was an active member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church and enjoyed roller skating, bowling, golf and family game nights. Elsie and Dick retired from active farming in 1987 and enjoyed spending winters together in New Smyrna Beach, Florida.

Elsie was preceded in death by her parents, Wilhelm and Auguste Semelka; her husband of 53 years, Richard Wilkinson; her sister Otillia Kierstein, and her brothers William H. Semelka and Robert A. Semelka.

Elsie is survived by her son, Thomas G. Wilkinson, and wife Wendy (Massey), and her daughter, Janeene L. Cunningham, and husband Randy both of North East. She is also survived by several nieces and nephews and their families.

The family will have a memorial service for family and friends at a later date. Memorials may be made to St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, 30 Clinton Street, North East, PA 16428; North East Community Nursing Services, 7 Park Street, North East, PA 16428; or North East Fire Department, 68 South Pearl Street, North East, PA 16428.  Funeral arrangements are under the care of the W. Tad Bowers Funeral Home, 92 S. Lake St., North East, PA.  To send condolences, please visit www.bowersfuneralhome.com.

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