Russell Joseph Scianna

Russell Joseph Scianna, 83, formerly of Reading, died October 26, 2008 in Berks County Home - Berks Heim, Bern Township at 7:15 p.m.

He was married to the late Marjorie Louise (Wilson) Scianna, who died August 24, 2006.

Born February 21, 1925 in Reading, he was a son of the late Anthony and Maria (DeFresco) Scianna.

Russell was employed by Brown Trailer, Reading, as well as Polymer Corp., Reading as a grinder and production worker.

He served in the U.S. Army during World War II.

Surviving are two sisters, Celia S., widow of Anthony "Tony" Gagliano of Reading and Rose, wife of Richard Braddock of Muhlenberg Township.

In addition there are four grandchildren surviving: Russell Scianna, Christopher Scianna, Elizabeth Scianna and Nicholas Scianna.

He is also survived by several nieces and nephews.

Russell was predeceased by a son, Russell William Scianna, Sr. on April 23, 2004, six brothers, Joseph M., Morris, Samuel, Anthony, Nicholas L., Sr., John P. Scianna and two sisters, Helen M. Orlando and Jennie M. Bukowski.

Services will be held Thursday at 10 a.m. in the Chapel of St. George at Gethsemane Cemetery, 3121 Kutztown Road, Muhlenberg Township. A viewing will be held from 8:30-9:30 a.m. in Walter R. Christ Funeral Home, Inc., 3300 Kutztown Road, Laureldale. Burial will be in Gethsemane Cemetery.

Contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association, 225 N. Michigan Avenue, Floor 17, Chicago, IL 60601-7633 or the American Cancer Society, 498 Bellevue Avenue, Reading, PA 19605.

For online condolences, please visit www.christfuneralhome.com.