Robert J. Kromko Sr.

Robert J. "Commander" Kromko Sr., 61, of Dalton, formerly of Clarks Summit and Lake Winola, died Monday evening at home after a brief and courageous battle with cancer.

Born in Throop, son of Joseph "Pepe" Kromko Sr., Peckville, and the late Elizabeth Lark Kromko, he attended Scott Twp. public schools. During the height of the Vietnam War, Bobby, as he was affectionately known by his countless friends, volunteered to join the Marine Corps. He served a 13-month tour of duty in Vietnam. After his return from overseas, Bobby was stationed at the Marine base in Quantico, Va. He was awarded the Vietnam Service and Campaign ribbons, the National Defense Service Ribbon, the Good Conduct Medal, the Combat Action Ribbon and qualified as a rifle sharpshooter.

After his release from active military service, with the rank of corporal, Bobby worked for more than 20 years as a truck driver, laborer and foreman for the Mele Construction Co. of Dunmore. For the past 17 years, he was a faithful employee of Fabcor in Jessup. He felt at home behind the wheel of an 18-wheeler or tri-axle truck. Hard work was a staple of his life. He was rarely without a baseball cap, most often wearing those depicting his beloved Marine Corps.

At the time of his passing, Bobby was the commander of the Abington Memorial VFW Post 7069, Clarks Summit, a post he held with distinction for more than 15 years. During his commandership, the post underwent extensive remodeling and is considered one of the premier VFW posts in the state. He was named an outstanding post commander on the state level several times. Respectfully called "Commander," he was also a longtime trustee for the VFW 10th District. The "Commander" was devoted to the VFW, Post 7069 and the betterment of the community at large. His leadership will be sorely missed. Bobby was also a member of Raymond Henry American Legion Post, Olyphant.

Bobby had a unique, one-of-a-kind personality that drew friends like a magnet. He made friends with great ease. His raspy, distinctive voice was his so-called trademark. His impersonation of Elvis was always a crowd-pleaser. He truly was the life of the party. His passing leaves a void in the hearts of family and friends that will never be filled.

Bobby volunteered so much of his time to his community, illustrating random acts of kindness, generosity and spiritual support. His words and actions affected so many people; his true passion was his reverence and values in helping fellow veterans, family, and friends. These values were a great part of how he lived his life. He passed away surrounded by his loved ones.

Surviving are his fiancée, Catherine "Cat" Fraser, Dalton; a son, Robert Kromko Jr. and wife, Dana, Clarks Summit; a daughter, Stacy Rachko and husband, Michael, Lake Winola; three brothers, Joseph Jr. and wife, Roberta, Clarks Summit; Michael and wife, Kathy, Nicholson; and Tracy and wife, Tanya, Nicholson; two sisters, Vivian Turbol-ski and husband, Ronald, Eynon; and Nancy Ferrone and husband, John, Florida; eight grandchildren, Mariah and Nicholas Auriemma, Taylor and Joseph Nally, Brittney and Justin Kromko, Evann and Jared Craig; several nieces, nephews and godchildren.

The funeral will be Friday at 9:45 a.m. from the Law rence E. Young Funeral Home, 418 S. State St., Clarks Summit, with Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 in St. Mary of the Lake Church, Lake Winola. Interment will be private at the convenience of the family.

Friends may call Thursday from 4 to 8 p.m. VFW Post 7069 will conduct military services at 7. Memorial contributions may be made to the Abington Memorial Post 7069, VFW, 402 Winola Road, Clarks Summit, PA 18411.