Gerard F Tully Sr.

Gerard F. Tully, Sr., 77, of Olyphant, died on Saturday at Moses Taylor Hospital, Scranton after a courageous battle with ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease).  His wife is the former Theresa M. Jackanin.  They would have celebrated their 55th anniversary on October 28.Born in Dickson City, he was a resident of Olyphant for 43 years.  He was the son of the late Leo and Mary C. Collins Tully.He was a Naval Veteran of World War II and served on the U.S.S. Columbus.  He was the recipient of a Pacific Theater Ribbon, American Theater Ribbon and a Victory Medal.  He was also a member of American Legion, Raymond Henry Post #327 and a lifetime member of Excelsior Hose Co. No. 1, holding the position of financial secretary for over 20 years.A member of St. Patrick’s Church, Olyphant and a graduate of St. Patrick’s High School, he enjoyed fishing, woodworking, carpentry and masonry.  His grandchildren fondly referred to him as “Poppy” and “Mr. Fix-it.”  He taught his family and friends many valuable lessons through his special way of storytelling.  He also showed his great sense of humor when many of the stories he enjoyed telling ended up being jokes.He is survived by two sons a daughter- in-law: Jerry F., Jr. & Ann and David N., all of Olyphant; three daughters and 1 son-in-law: Patricia B., Erin A. Tully Grzenda, of Peckville and Marisa & Robert Fasulo of Olyphant; 3 brothers: Cyril of Scranton, Joseph of Olyphant and Bernard of Dickson City; 2 sisters: Mary Wilsey of Justus and Audrey Durkin of Dickson City.  Also surviving are nine grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.He was preceded in death by 4 brothers: Thomas, Charles, William and Robert and one sister: Eileen Kobal.A traditional fireman’s funeral will be held at 9AM on Wednesday from the Hudak-O’Shea Funeral Home, Inc., 115 Garfield Avenue, Olyphant.  Military Services will be held at 8:45AM by American Legion Raymond Henry Post #327.   Mass will be at 9:30AM at St. Patrick’s Church, Delaware St., Olyphant.  Interment will follow at the parish cemetery.Friends may call on Tuesday from 2 to 4 & 6 to 9PM at the funeral home.  Christian wake services will be held during this time.  The Olyphant Fire Department will meet and Excelsior Hose Co. No. 1 will hold a ceremony.Memorial contributions may be made to Excelsior Hose Co. No. 1, 421 Lackawanna Avenue, Olyphant, PA, 18447 or Good Shepherd, 601 St. John St., Allentown, PA, 18103-3279.