Gerald J. Frates, age 61 of Sweet Valley, passed away Friday August 2, 2013 at the Wilkes-Barre General Hospital, surrounded by his family after his struggle with cancer.

Born in Wilkes-Barre on June 23, 1952, he was the son of the late Joseph and Gertrude (Trudy) Ryan Frates.

Mr. Frates was a graduate of Pennsbury High School, Fairless Hills, Class of 1971. His passions in life were his family and cars. He loved being outdoors mowing the lawn and keeping everything looking nice. His presence will be deeply missed by everyone.

Preceding him in death was his sister Maureen.

He is survived by his sisters: Mary Ellen Kordowski and her husband Tom of Sweet Valley; Barbara Neiman and her husband Conrad of Dallas; brothers: Bill Frates and his wife Georgetta of Lyons Station and Joseph Frates; nieces and nephews; great-nieces and great-nephews.

Funeral service will be held Wednesday at 11 AM from Curtis L. Swanson Funeral Home, Inc., corner routes 29 & 118, Pikes Creek with Rev. Joseph Rafferty, pastor of Prince of Peace Episcopal Church officiating. Interment will be in Oaklawn Cemetery, Hanover Township.

Friends may call Tuesday from 7-9 PM