Margaret S. Antanavage, 92, current resident of Providence Place and formerly of Cresswell Gardens, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, June 24th at Lehigh Valley Hospital, Schuylkill East, in Pottsville, surrounded by her loving family.

Born in Mount Carmel, she was a daughter of the late Matthew and Susan (Miscannon) Rusnak. Margaret was a faithful member of St. Charles Borromeo Parish in Ashland, where her faith remained an important part of her life.

In addition to her parents, Margaret was preceded in death by her loving husband, Robert B. Antanavage with whom she married on June 3, 1961; an infant son, Billy Antanavage; and her siblings, John Rusnak, Theresa Greenbaum, Matthew Rusnak, Thomas Rusnak, Francis Paul, and William Rusnak.

Margaret is survived by her children: Robert (Rhonda) Antanavage, Susan (John) Pulaski, Joanne (Gerard) Anthony and Diane (Mark) Stafford; her grandchildren Emily, Elizabeth, Matthew, Sarah (Dylan), Lauren, Helen, Jennifer (Timothy), John (Kellee), Gerard (Caitlin), Michael (Chase), Amanda (James), Allison, Andrew and Mary; her great-grandchildren: Annabelle, Kathryn, Jacob, Harper, Charlotte, Riley, Mia and Michael. She is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.

Margaret was truly the life of every gathering and brought joy and laughter wherever she went. She had a wonderful sense of humor, loved joking around with family and friends, and was often the last one to leave any celebration. As the matriarch of her family, Margaret held a special place in the hearts of those around her and was the last surviving member of her immediate family, carrying with her the memories and traditions of generations past.

She enjoyed spending time outdoors, especially picnicking and fishing with her husband, a hobby that brought her many happy memories. One story she loved to tell — and proudly reminded everyone about — was the time she out-fished Rod Hunter in Syracuse in 1965, reeling in the biggest catch and earning herself a story she would share with a smile for years to come. 

Margaret also found great joy in the kitchen, where she expressed her love through cooking and baking for family and friends. She was especially known for her delicious apple pies, which became a favorite at her parish bingos and were enjoyed by many throughout the community. Above all, Margaret treasured her family. She delighted in every moment spent with her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, celebrating their accomplishments, creating cherished memories, and surrounding them with her unconditional love.

Margaret’s laughter, stories, and loving spirit will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on July 6th at 11 a.m. from St. Charles Borromeo Parish, Ashland, with Msgr. William F. Glosser as the celebrant. A viewing will be held at the church on Monday morning from 9 a.m. until the time of Mass. Interment will follow at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery, Annville.

In lieu of flowers, the family would prefer donations be made in Margaret’s name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105

Sign the guestbook, leave personal condolences, and for further information, please visit www.thomasmsullivanfuneralhome.com.

The Thomas M. Sullivan Funeral Home, Inc., Frackville, is in charge of arrangements.