Marlene Richards Kratz, 91, of Hanover Township, passed away on Friday, August 14, 2026, at The Meadows Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Dallas, PA.
Born April 17, 1935 and raised in Lower Askam and Warrior Run, she was the daughter of the late Edward and Margaret Richards. A proud graduate of Meyers High School, Marlene remained an active alumna throughout her life, helping to organize and plan her class’s yearly reunions. In her earlier years, she was a member of the Lioness Club, co‑founder of the Askam Elementary PTA, and served as a coach for the Warrior Run girls’ softball team.
Marlene was an avid traveler, having visited numerous countries across Europe and cities throughout the United States. She especially cherished trips to Canada and Niagara Falls with her husband of 70 years, Andrew Kratz, and their close circle of friends.
She enjoyed shopping, socializing, spending time with family and friends, and doting on her beloved dogs, Mindi and Mandi.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, William Richards (Mildred); sisters‑in‑law Mary, Martha, and Sharon; and brother‑in‑law Richard.
Surviving are five generations of family, including her husband of 70 years, Andrew J. Kratz; sons Richard Kratz (Lisa) of Warrior Run and Andrew Kratz Jr. (Lori) of Hanover Twp; daughters Andrea Kratz Heller (Christopher) of Harveys Lake, and Kimberly Kratz Cardimona (Jeffrey) of Hazle Twp. She is also survived by grandchildren Richard Kratz Jr., James Brodginski, Nicole Kratz Meade, Antonio Gianelli, Deanna Gianelli Lesh, Leann Smith Megaris, Tia Hartenfels Baker, Tara Hartenfels Shaefer, Christopher Heller, Cady Heller Jackson, Christina Kratz, and Jeffrey Cardimona Jr.; numerous great‑grandchildren, and a great‑great‑granddaughter. Additional survivors include nieces, nephews, brothers‑in‑law, and sisters‑in‑law.
Friends may call from 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, August 19 at Mamary‑Durkin Funeral & Cremation Services, 59 Parrish Street, Wilkes‑Barre.
The Funeral Service will take place at the funeral home Thursday, August 20 at 10:30am with visitation from 9:30-10:30 a.m.
Interment will follow in the Hanover Green Cemetery, 689 Main Road, Hanover Township.
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