Bernice A. Stolan
OBITUARY
Bernice A. Stolan, 88, of Taylor, passed away peacefully on Friday, June 19, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.
Born on December 14, 1937, in Taylor, Pa., Bernice was the daughter of the late Michael and Mary Gruczkowski. She attended West Scranton High School, where she met her high school sweetheart, John Stolan. Their love story began in their youth, and the two were married in 1958 and built a beautiful life together until his passing in 1985, a loss she carried with strength and grace throughout her years.
Bernice’s greatest joy and proudest accomplishment was her family. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend whose presence brought comfort, strength, and unconditional love to all who knew her. Her grandchildren held a special place in her heart, and nothing made her happier than cheering them on at sporting events, dance recitals, school performances, and every milestone in between.
One of Bernice’s greatest blessings was being surrounded by her family. She lived with her son, Kevin, whose years of selfless care and devotion were a testament to their special bond. In her final months, her children came together to help care for her, spending countless hours by her side and creating cherished memories that will remain with them forever. Though their hearts are heavy with loss, they remain grateful for the precious time they shared with her.
Some of Bernice’s most treasured memories were made during family vacations to Wildwood Crest, New Jersey, where laughter, togetherness, and family traditions created lasting bonds. She especially loved the Christmas season, taking great pride in decorating her home and bringing her family together. Whether making pierogies or baking Christmas cookies with her children and grandchildren, she found joy in these simple traditions and the lifelong memories they created.
Bernice also enjoyed doing her word searches and took great pride in tending to the beautiful flowers that filled her yard. Her kindness, warmth, unwavering devotion to her family, and ability to make everyone feel valued will be remembered always. She had a gift for making people feel welcome, whether they were family, friends, or someone she had just met. Her home was a place where family gathered, stories were shared, and traditions were lovingly passed down. She found happiness not in grand gestures, but in the everyday moments spent with those she loved most. She leaves behind a legacy of love, resilience, and cherished family traditions that will continue for generations.
She is survived by her children, Jack Stolan and his wife, Karen, of Old Forge; Kevin Stolan of Taylor; and Denise Padula and her husband, Frank J. Padula, Jr., of Moosic; her cherished grandchildren, John Stolan and his wife, Maura, Erica Stolan, and Gianna Padula; her sister, Diane Ogonosky; and her sister-in-law, Ann Stolan, who was always more like a sister to her.
Bernice was preceded in death by her husband, John Stolan and her sisters, Jean Lamonica and Marion York.
Bernice will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her, but the traditions she cherished, the memories she created, and the love she shared will live on in the hearts of her family for generations to come.
Family and friends are invited to attend Bernice’s funeral service which will be begin on Thursday at 9:15 am from the Semian Funeral Home, LLC, 704 Union St. Taylor, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 am in St. Ann’s Basilica, 1250 St. Ann St., West Scranton. Burial with Rite of Committal will follow in Cathedral Cemetery. Family and friends may call Wednesday 5:00 to 8:00 pm. at the funeral home.
Please visit the funeral home website to share memories and extend condolences.
Bernice A. Stolan
June 19, 2026