Rose A. Kohutka , 81, passed away peacefully at Pennsburg Manor on September 3, 2023, where she most recently resided.
Born in Pottsville, on May 5, 1942, she was the beloved daughter of the late Ralph and Mary Bonadio Butera.
Rose’s educational journey began at Center Street Public School before she transferred to St. Patrick’s Catholic School. In 1960, she proudly graduated from Nativity BVM High School.
Her pursuit of knowledge led her to earn a Bachelor of Science in elementary education from the College of Misericordia in 1964. She continued her academic journey at Drexel, where she attained a master’s degree in library and information science.
Following her marriage, Rose had the opportunity to live in various places, including France, Texas, and King of Prussia, before returning to Pottsville. There, she dedicated herself to library work, with roles in settings such as the Pottsville Free Public Library, Penn State Schuylkill, and her longest tenure at the Pottsville Area High School, where she retired in 2005.
Rose was an active member of PSERS, her professional organization, and even served a term as the local president. She was also a devoted member of the Sodality of the Blessed Virgin Mary and the former St. Francis Church in Minersville and more recently a faithful member of St. Patricks RCC in Pottsville.
In her leisure time, Rose found joy in reading, crafting, and treasured moments with her family. Christmas held a special place in her heart, marked by storytelling and the delight of hiding presents. She also had a strong passion for the Philanthropic Club of Pottsville, where she enjoyed presenting and hosting discussions on topics of mutual interest.
Rose was preceded in death by her loving parents and her husband of 46 years, John P. Kohutka.
She is survived by her sons: J.D. (Danielle), of Gilbertsville and Michael (Valerie), of Pottsville; and daughter, Natalie Grogan (Jack), of Orwigsburg. Her memory lives on in her grandchildren: Dylan Kohutka (Brooke); Annelise Collins (Michael); Zachary Gilbert (Alicia); Madeline and Mikenzie Kohutka, Ryan, Ian, and Courtney Grogan. She is also survived by her sister, Mary Jane Reed (Marlin); brother, Ralph (Kathleen), as well as many nieces and nephews.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, September 12th, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Patrick R.C.C., 319 Mahantongo St., Pottsville, with Father Phil Rodgers officiating. A visitation will be held at Lord-Bixler Funeral Home, Inc., 1818 Mahantongo St., Pottsville, on Monday evening from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. and on Tuesday morning from 9:30 a.m. until the procession will leave for the church.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Pottsville Free Public Library at 215 West Market Street, Pottsville, PA 17901, in Rose’s honor. Rose’s legacy of education, service, and love will be deeply cherished and remembered by all who knew her.
Interment will follow in Indiantown Gap National Cemetery, Annville.
Lord-Bixler Funeral Home, Inc. is in charge of arrangements.
Online condolences may be expressed at lordbixler.com
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