Edward J. Harenza – Wilkes-Barre Citizens’ Voice

Edward J. Harenza, 96, of Plymouth, Pennsylvania, passed away at his home on May 6, 2026.

Harenza had a distinguished military career spanning two decades. He joined the U.S. Navy in 1950 and served for five years. Following his discharge from the Navy, he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force, where he served until 1970. During his time in the armed forces, he served in both the Korean and Vietnam wars.

Following his military service, Harenza spent 20 years as the head custodian at Wyoming Valley West High School.

Harenza was active in numerous community and veterans organizations. He was a member of the Usher’s Club at All Saints Parish in Plymouth. His veteran affiliations included life membership in the Disabled American Veterans (DAV), AMVETS Post 59, and the Air Force Sergeant Association in Wyoming. He also served as a past commander for VFW Post 1425.

he was a third-degree member of the Knights of Columbus Plymouth Council 11901 and a fourth-degree member of the Luzerne Assembly 1928.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Elizabeth Martin Harenza, who passed away in 1995. He was also preceded by his son, Capt. Edward Harenza, Jr. Of the U.S. Air Force; his daughter, Susan Bird; his brothers Andrew, Joseph, Stanley Zip, and Leonard S. Harenza; and his sisters Josephine Radginski, Helen Palivoda, Stella Breck, and Angela Kruchinshy.

Harenza is survived by his son, Michael Harenza; daughters Michelle Harenza and Kathleen Shaw; son-in-law David Bird; and sister-in-law Genevieve Harenza. He is also survived by grandchildren John Shaw, Susan Reilly, D.J. Bird, and Ryan Bird, as well as great-grandchildren Makenzee, Makynlee, and Makaylyn Reilly, and Brantley and Ella Shaw.

A funeral will be held at 8:00 AM on May 13, 2026, at Baloga Funeral Home, Inc. In Pittston. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 9:00 AM at All Saints Parish in Plymouth, celebrated by Pastor Rev. Gerald J. Gurka.