Mary A. Kokinda, 87, of Scranton, passed away Saturday, March 19, 2022, at her home.

Born in Pittston, she was the daughter of the late Edward and Mary Dzimera Zarnoch. She was a graduate of Pittston High School, Class of 1953 where she was a cheerleader. She was employed by Northeastern Eye Institute, retiring after 22 years. She was also a coach for Weight Watchers, retiring after 34 years. Bonding with her members was something she enjoyed to help them, loved to make people laugh with her sense of humor and help anyone in whatever might be needed.

Her love of travel took her to 17 countries and 43 states. In 1971, she formed a group called the "Happy Wanderers", started doing bus trips, then became a Tour Escort for the then Central and Ticket Travel Agency of Wilkes-Barre.

She had been a resident of Scranton for the past 35 years.

Her granddaughters meant the so much to her and spent many happy times with them, with great memories.

She was a member of Nativity of Our Lord Parish, Duryea.

She was preceded in death by her brother and sister in laws, Joseph and Irene Zarnoch and Bernard and Teresa Zarnoch.

Surviving are:
Daughter, Beverly Avvisato and her companion, Billy Kinney, of Wesley Chapel, Florida
Granddaughter, Atty. Rhiannon Avvisato and her fiance, Atty. Jon Schnaars
Granddaughter, Kayleigh Avvisato
Several nieces and nephews

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, March 26, 2022, at 10:00 am from the Bernard J. Piontek Funeral Home Inc., 204 Main Street, Duryea with the Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 am in Holy Rosary Church, 127 Stephenson Street, Duryea with the Rev. Michael Bryant officiating. Interment will be in Holy Rosary Cemetery, Duryea. A viewing will be held on Saturday morning from 9:00 am to 10:00 am at the funeral home. To leave the family an online condolence, please visit the funeral home website, www.piontekfuneralhome.com.

PLEASE NOTE: YOUR ONLINE CONDOLENCE WILL NOT APPEAR UNDER THE GUESTBOOK ENTRIES UNTIL IT IS APPROVED BY THE FUNERAL HOME

Guestbook Entries

I am so sorry about your Mom and Grandmother. I worked with Mary many years and had lots of laughs along the way! She was a special person who lived life to the fullest! May your wonderful memories bring you peace.

Janet Andres (over 2 years ago)

I spoke to your mother about 1year ago...we reminensced about our friendship so many years ago...our condolences to your family..Arlene,BJ and Brad.

Arlene Komnath..(Domzalski) (over 2 years ago)

My condolences to Mary's family. Mary and I became friends at the Laurel Garden Club. We enjoyed many garden tours and lots of laughs. She was a sweet, kind and loving woman. I will miss her phone calls and friendship.

Pauline Reedy (over 2 years ago)

I know Mary from the Laurel Garden Club. Very sweet and beautiful lady. Ours made time for you. She will be missed.

Debbie Laurito (over 2 years ago)

Mary was my moms second cousin .. but more like best friends for many years…their phone conversations lasted longer some days than a sitcom … they shared their baking skills.. their raising of daughters… HRS… The Confraternity of Christian Mothers and shared family stories … through the years of eye care for most of my family Mary always greeted us with a smile at NEI…she stopped by the clam stand at SH picnic to meet my children and grandchildren in 2019… we shared a big hug and some conversation it was good to see her…she so totally loved life!!! My condolences to those who knew and loved her I am sure she will be missed!

Judy Lambert (over 2 years ago)

I never knew your mother and I probably saw her at Northeastern Eye Institute. I am sorry for your loss and because of a prior engagement , I cannot be at the viewing. I recognized the name Kokinda and knew we were related . Your father Thomas grandmother was married to my grandmothers brother Michael Guido. If you are interested in some of the family history I can be reached at johnmurphy18@comcast.net. I know that you will miss her and it sounds like she had an adventurous and full life. My condolences.

John R Murphy (over 2 years ago)

Rest in Peace Mary. There is a special place in heaven for the unsung heroes of this world. You taught me how to eat healthy and probably saved my life by doing so. I will miss your advice.

Thomas Quinn (over 2 years ago)

Met Mary about 4yrs ago at WW . She was a very nice.person. she will be missed by many.

Linda Hughes (over 2 years ago)

We had so many good times when she came to visit us in Calif. Her travels continued with my Dad as the tour guide and also many fond memories of all her wonderful deserts. I will miss you Aunt Mary but I know you’ll be with your brothers dancing doing the Polka.

Kathy Louk (over 2 years ago)

I’ll never forget all the fun summers I spent with my aunt Mary. Lots of fond memories. Rest In Peace and may God Bless You. All my love, Sherrie Baby

Sharon Desmond (over 2 years ago)

To the Kokinda Family, I worked with Mary at WW. She was such a funny, sweet, and kind person. We would talk about travel, and pending vacations. She always was ready for a good martini and certainly never acted her age. Good for you Mary! I'll miss you!

Stephanie Nemetz (over 2 years ago)

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