Dorothy Stafiniak

Dorothy E. Stafiniak, 90, of Bethlehem, passed away on December 2nd, 2025, at Bryn Mawr Hospital.

Born on November 20, 1935, Dorothy was the beloved daughter of the late Michael and Elizabeth Uzick. She was Michael Stafiniak's loving wife for 46 years until his passing in 2012.

Dorothy was a proud graduate of Tamaqua High School before pursuing her calling in healthcare and serving others. She completed her training at the Reading Hospital School of Nursing and later advanced her education at the United States Air Force School of Aerospace Medicine. Her dedication to nursing became a lifelong vocation, and she worked as a Registered Nurse in various hospitals where her compassion and skill touched countless lives. From 1959 to 1966, Dorothy served her country as a Captain and flight nurse with the Pennsylvania Air National Guard. Additionally, she and other nurses created the St. Luke's Nurse Honor Guard; the Guard pays tribute to active and retired nurses at the time of their passing. She paused her nursing career to raise her family, returning decades later and retiring in 2007. In her work and in her life, Dorothy led humbly with compassion, integrity, and a smile.

Dorothy had a passion for gardening and baking, finding delight in sharing her culinary creations with loved ones. She had a knack for telling a good joke, and she enjoyed solving puzzles, playing games on her iPad and cheering for the Phillies. Dorothy enjoyed spending time with her church friends and she was always ready to lend a helping hand and offer a prayer for others. She was particularly fond of sunshine and flowers, which reflected her vibrant personality and love for life.

Faith was central to Dorothy's life. She was a devoted member of St. Nicholas Russian Orthodox Church, where she served as president of the Ladies Altar Society and was a dedicated pierogi making volunteer for decades. Her leadership, generosity, and steadfast spirit enriched the parish community she loved so dearly.

Dorothy is survived by her daughter, Michele (Russell) Gianforcaro; two sons, Joseph (Emma) and Stephen (Jennifer) Stafiniak; six grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; as well as nieces, nephews, and family dogs, all of whom she loved dearly.

In addition to her parents, Dorothy was preceded in death by her loving husband, Michael Stafiniak; as well as her brother, John Uzick.

A viewing will be held on Thursday, December 11, 2025, from 5-7 p.m. at St. Nicholas Russian Orthodox Church, 980 Bridle Path Rd, Bethlehem, PA 18017 with a Panikhida beginning at 7 p.m. in the church. Another viewing will be held on Friday, December 12, 2025, from 9-10 a.m. at the church with a funeral service beginning at 10 a.m. in the church. Burial will follow at Sky-View Memorial Park, 108 Lafayette Ave, Tamaqua, PA 18252.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Connell Funeral Home, Bethlehem.