Geraldine A. ("Jeri") Chelak, 82, of Mahanoy City, PA, passed away on Wednesday, April 25th, at Homeland Center, Harrisburg.

Jeri was born in Mahanoy City, PA on February 12, 1936, a daughter of the late Helen (Szematowicz) and Anthony Sharaka.

She was a member of Saint Teresa of Calcutta Parish, Mahanoy City, PA 17948.

Jeri graduated from Mahanoy City High School Class of 1953.

Jeri worked as a Bank Teller for many years at the Pennsylvania National Bank, later M&T Bank. She was also well known as the Secretary at the former St. Joseph Church in Mahanoy City.  Jeri also served as the Tax Assessor of Mahanoy City Borough for a number of years.

Jeri was a member of the Mahanoy City Democratic Women's Club, Mahanoy City Women's Club and Elks Ladies Auxiliary. Jeri also volunteered many years of service to St. Joseph's Church in many positions including altar lady, choir member and lector.

Jeri also enjoyed many activities and hobbies including being an avid reader, baking, crocheting, arts and crafts and, later in life, puzzles and coloring.

She was the devoted wife of the late Gregory "Harry" Chelak.

Jeri is survived by two daughters, Lee Ann Stewart, wife of Jack Stewart, of Dauphin; Cheryl Tomlin, of Kelayres; a son, The Honorable Gregory H. Chelak, husband of Stacey Chelak, of Milford; and by three sisters, Helen Marie Graham, wife of the late Joseph Graham, of Norristown; Dorothy Lewis, wife of the late Robert Lewis, of Mahanoy City; and Nancy Petritsch, wife of Eric Petritsch, of Mahanoy City.

She is also survived by 6 Grandchildren, Joseph Tomlin, Sam Tomlin, Chadd Stewart, Christian Chelak, Corey Chelak and Clay Chelak as well as Nieces and Nephews.

Jeri is preceded in death by a sister Florence Ogryzek.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Saint Teresa of Calcutta Parish, Mahanoy City, PA, at 11am on Monday, April 30th, with Rev. Kevin P. Gallagher officiating.

Friends may call Monday 9am to 11am at Saint Teresa of Calcutta Parish.

Interment will be at St Joseph Cemetery Mahanoy City, PA.

In lieu of flowers, the Family welcomes any donations to the Mahanoy City Public Library or the Saint Teresa of Calcutta Church in Mahanoy City.