Richard E. Tobias

Richard E. Tobias, 81, of Conyngham, passed away Monday afternoon at his home, following a lengthy illness.  

Born in West Hazleton, January 16, 1936, he was the son of the late Nicholas L. and Blanche (Smolen) Tobias.  He spent the past 11 years in Conyngham after moving from Lady Lake, FL.  He had also previously resided in West Hazleton.

Rich was a truck driver for several businesses in the Hazleton area, and a Teamster’s Union Representative.  While residing in Florida, he was employed by Entertainment Coaches of America as a Tour Bus Driver for several popular entertainers.  After returning to the area, he had also worked at the Keystone Job Corps, Drums.

He was a member of Christ Church, United Church of Christ, Conyngham; Historic Brainerd Church, Sugarloaf; and the Sugarloaf Fire Company.  He was a life member of the Pulaski Club, West Hazleton.  He enjoyed NASCAR and CART, and regularly attended the Daytona races.  He was an avid fan of the Philadelphia Eagles and Penn State.

He was preceded in death, in addition to his parents, by a grandson, two sisters, and two brothers.

Surviving are his wife of the past 35 years, the former Carolyn Harter; four sons, two step-sons; a step-daughter; a granddaughter; three grandsons; a great-granddaughter; a great-grandson; and s sister.

His funeral will be held with a memorial service Friday at 11 am at Historic Brainerd Church, 798 Main Street, Sugarloaf, with his Pastor, Sandy Murphy officiating.  Interment will be held privately in Conyngham Union Cemetery.  Friends may call at the church, Friday morning 10-11 am.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Historic Brainerd Church, PO Box 366, Sybertsville, PA 18251.  Harman Funeral Homes & Crematory Inc. (East) 669 W. Butler Drive, Drums is assisting the family with the arrangements.  Online condolences can be entered and more information is available at www.harmanfuneral.com.

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