Richard M. Puls

Richard M. Puls , 67, formerly of Frackville passed away on Tuesday evening at Ridgeview Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center, Shenandoah.

Born in Jersey, City, NJ, he was a son of Elizabeth Tynio Puls, Frackville and her late husband Morris N. Puls. Rich worked as a sprinkler system engineer for T & T Fire Protection Inc., Hollywood, FL.

Rich was a 1968 graduate of North Schuylkill High School. His senior year, he earned the prestigious award of being the school's scholar athlete and was later inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1989. He was a 1972 graduate of Albright College.

Rich was a member of St. Michael's Ukrainian Catholic Church, Frackville. He enjoyed playing his accordion and performed for several years with Eddie and the Polkateers.

Before moving back to Frackville, Rich resided in Florida for 30 years.  He was blessed to have the continuous support and friendship of his 2nd family; Ted & Terri Dudash and family. For the past 7 years he was a resident at Luther Ridge, Pottsville.  He was a familiar face to both staff and residents.  Everyone knew him as "The Puzzle Man" as he diligently would work on his puzzles.  He enjoyed having friends and family visiting, sharing his puzzles and playing cards. He will always be remembered for his mild manner and contagious smile.

In addition to his mother Liz, Rich is survived by his sister Patricia "Cookie" and her husband Gary Howard, Shenandoah; his brother Dennis Puls and his wife Betty, Frackville; his nephews: Nicholas Reese, Dennis and Keith Puls; his nieces: Kimberly Mentusky and Gina Keller; several great-nieces and nephews.

Divine Liturgy will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday at St. Michael's Ukrainian Catholic Church, Frackville with Rev. Petro Zvarych, pastor, as the celebrant. Interment will follow in the parish cemetery. Friends may call on Monday morning at the Thomas M. Sullivan Funeral Home, Frackville from 9 to 10:30 a.m. with a Parastas service at 10 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family prefers contributions be made, in Rich's name, to The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis at 1095 NW 14 ^th Terrace #48 Miami, FL 33136 or to the memorial fund of St. Michael's Ukrainian Catholic Church at 243 S. Middle Street Frackville, PA 17931.