Thomas E. Lakata, 86, of Fellowship Community, Whitehall, formerly of Hauto, Carbon County, died July 8, 2024, at Fellowship Terrace.

He and his wife, Lenora (Sandri) Lakata, were married 59 years.

Born March 24, 1938, in Coaldale, Schuylkill County, he was the son of the late Joseph and Anna (Lapos) Lakata.

He faithfully and honorably served his country in the U.S. Army during the Korean era.

A sewing machine mechanic at the former Kai Jay Mfg., Nesquehoning, for 38 years, he retired in 2002.

He was a member of St. Joseph the Worker Roman Catholic Church, Orefield.

In addition to his loving wife, he is survived by a son, Dr. Thomas J. Lakata (Rebecca) of Fogelsville; daughter Yvonne M. Gibble (Chad) of Orefield; and grandchildren Thomas P. and Lauren E. Lakata.

He was predeceased by siblings Joseph F. and Frank Lakata, Dorothy McConnell and Margaret Marouchoc.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 11 a.m. July 15 at St Joseph the Worker Roman Catholic Church, 1879 Applewood Drive, Orefield.

Family and friends may pay their respects 10-11 a.m. Monday at the church.

Interment with military honors will follow the Mass at Sky-View Memorial Park, Hometown.

Expressions of sympathy may be offered at heintzelmancares.com.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Fellowship Community Activities Fund c/o the funeral home, P.O. Box 196, Schnecksville, PA 18078-0196.

Arrangements were made by Heintzelman Funeral Home Inc., Schnecksville.