Dr. John Abda, Jr., 88, a longtime resident of Clarks Summit, passed away peacefully Wednesday, July 1.

Born December 16, 1937, he was the youngest of five sons born to the late John and Diamond Smith Abda. He graduated from Central High School and the University of Scranton before earning his medical degree from Hahnemann Medical College, Philadelphia, in 1963. He completed residencies in general surgery at the University of Pennsylvania and the Veterans Administration Hospital, Philadelphia, where he was named Chief Surgical Resident, before serving rotations in obstetrics and gynecology at Lower Bucks County Hospital and in pediatric surgery at Children's Hospital, Philadelphia.

He was the first full-time Emergency Department employed physician at Community Medical Center, where he directed the implementation of the region's most advanced and successful emergency facility, and was named director in 1977. He also served as medical director of EMS of NEPA. Certified by the American College of Surgeons in Advanced Life Support and Advanced Trauma Life Support, he was an instructor for paramedic and trauma nurse education programs and preceptor-physician for the Northeast PA Cooperative Residency Program in Internal Medicine. He is remembered for his kind, compassionate, and calm disposition and for serving his community with loyalty, integrity, and dedication.

John was a gifted artist and saxophonist. He was an avid learner and enjoyed mastering new skills such as wood and metal working. He was an original member of “the breakfast club” and above all, John loved spending time with his family and friends, often found gathered around his kitchen table.

He is survived by his five children, Lisa Abda, Old Forge; Albert Abda, Scranton; Stefanie Parry (Eric), Waverly; Renee Osborne (Atty. Christopher), Clarks Summit; and Atty. John Paul Abda, Clarks Summit; his loving grandchildren, John Patrick, A.J., Jamie, Carmen, and Jude Abda; Thomas and Charlotte Parry; and Ava, Zoey, and Madeline Osborne; and several nieces and nephews.

He was proceeded in death by his wife, Nancy; four brothers, William, Joseph, Albert, and James, sisters in law, Marie, Mildred, Rosemarie, and Charlotte; nephew Joseph Jr. and great-nephew Joseph III.

His family would like to extend sincere thanks to Dr. Vince Pollino for his years of friendship and support.

A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, July 7 th at 10:00am at St. Joseph Melkite Catholic Church, 130 St. Frances Cabrini Ave., Scranton Interment, Sacred Heart Cemetery, Scranton.

Family and friends may pay their respects on Monday, July 6 th from 4-7pm at the Savino Traditional Funerals and Cremation Care, 157 S. Main Ave.in Scranton. There will be a memorial service at 6:45pm in the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers donations may be sent to St. Joseph Melkite Catholic Church.

To leave an online condolence please visit www.NEPAfuneralhome.com