Olga (Branka) Lutza

Our cherished mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Olga Lutza, 97, formerly of Pottsville peacefully passed away on Saturday, August 26, 2023 at the home of her devoted daughter, Joann in Deer Lake. Joann and Olga's grandson, Brett cared for Olga for many years. Born in Frackville on August 1, 1926, Olga was the daughter of the late George Branka and Mary (Ringo) Branka Rhodes. Olga was united in marriage for 45 years with her late husband, Joseph Lutza, who passed away in 1993. She was preceded in death by her daughter, Maryanne Taranto and her son-in-law, Terry Taranto. Also preceding her in death was her brother, Peter Branka and her sister, Helen Herrman. Olga was a member of St. Michael Orthodox Church, St. Clair, where she was an active participant in the St. Barbara's Altar Society.  Exemplifying her commitment to her parish, Olga also enjoyed cooking for many years at the church hall. In addition to cooking, her other interests were crocheting and enjoying polka music. Besides being an excellent homemaker with a strong work ethic, Olga worked in the local garment industry. She was a member of the ILGW Union. As a valued member of her community, Olga contributed countless hours as a volunteer at the Pottsville Senior Center, where she earned awards for her selfless dedication. Olga is survived by her daughter, Anna Kadingo, Pleasant Gap, her daughter, Joann Freiler (David), Deer Lake, her son, Joseph M. Lutza (Lisa), West Chester, her sister Marie Stravinsky, New Jersey, and her sister, Joan Rabbitz, Schuylkill Haven. Additionally, Olga leaves behind 7grandchildren, Melissa, Ashley, Brett, Thomas, Janelle, Matthew, and Jaclyn, 2 great-grandchildren, Camilla and Bennett, who all brought her so much joy.  A Funeral Service will be held on Thursday, August 31, 2023 at St. Michael Orthodox Church, St. Clair at 10:30AM with Very Rev. Jeff Zias, officiating.  Relatives and friends are invited to call from 9AM-10AM at James H. Evans Funeral Home, Inc., 347 South Second St., St. Clair, PA 17970.  Interment will be at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery, Annville. The family would appreciate contributions in Olga's memory to St. Michael Orthodox Church, 118 North Nicholas St., St. Clair, PA 17970. James H. Evans Funeral Home, Inc., St. Clair in entrusted with arrangements. As a lady of immense strength, Olga was truly the matriarch of her family. Her contagious laugh always lifted the spirits of everyone around her, and she found the most happiness in moments spent with her family. Her legacy will forever inspire those who were fortunate enough to know her, and her memory will be eternal! Vichnaja Pamjat!

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