Paul Gorka, 89, Artist
October 12, 2020, of Nanticoke and Philadelphia.
Beloved husband of Christine (nee Clay). Beloved husband of Christine (nee Clay) Loving father of Julie Gorka (Walt Robinson), Susan Wisch (David), Barbara Gorka (Chris Moore) and Janit Gorka. Loving brother of Alice Pawlowski (Joseph), the late Doris Bartuska (Anthony) and the late David Gorka (Ann). Also survived by 8 grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.
Paul graduated from the University of Pennsylvania after serving as an army intelligence officer stationed in Germany during the Korean war. He then received a degree from the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts where he was given the prestigious Scheidt Travel Scholarship, a Cresson Traveling scholarship, the Grant Prize for Still Life and the Toppan Prize for Advanced Composition Award. He continued his studies at the Art Students League of New York and was an avid gardener, record-breaking ultrarunner, and he dedicated his life to his art and his teaching.
A Funeral Mass will be held Saturday, October 17th, at Noon, in Paul’s hometown, at Saint Faustina Kowalska Parish, 520 S Hanover Street, Nanticoke. PA 18634. Visitation will precede the Mass, from 11 am to Noon.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Schuylkill Center, 8480 Hagy’s Mill Road, Philadelphia, Pa. 19128 www.schuylkillcenter.org
May we live up to what you’ve loved in us and reflect the beauty of all we’ve loved through you, Sweet Uncle. You are our chapel ceiling and we jump to reach for you.
Dear Uncle,
I used to look for the straight lumber, now I search out the crooked and highlight the beauty they contain. Thanks, Mark
Thanks for holding onto my hands as I walked up your legs and chest and you flipped me around 15 times in a row without tiring.
Thanks for holding onto our faces.
Thanks for nailing food to your walls during our childhood.
Thanks for telling us all we can choose whatever we wanted from your shelves of running T-shirts.
Thanks for your excellent lasagna.
Thanks for the loads of tomatoes and peppers from your garden.
Thanks for naming your cat, “Puke.”
I’m going to start running again. Thank you, Uncle Paul.
We will miss you.
Deepest sympathy to the Gorka Family on the loss of such a vibrant soul.
Deepest sympathy to the Gorka Family on the loss of such a vibrant soul. While coaching at a district track meet Paul loaned me his truck to get to the hospital for the birth of my first child. That was 36 years ago.
Christine,
I saw Paul’s name and thought of you instantly. My sympathy and condolences go out to you. Be assured of a place in my heart and prayers at this time. Warmest wishes and blessings,
Barry Buchy
So very sorry to hear. Will miss seeing him