Daniel D. Aunkst

Daniel Delroy Aunkst, 86, of Watsontown, died Monday, May 13, 2024, at his home.

Born October 7, 1937, in Danville, he was the oldest child of the late Daniel David and the late Edith (Swisher) Aunkst of Watsontown.

He is survived by his wife, Nancy (Plotts) Aunkst of Watsontown, with whom he would have celebrated a 66th wedding anniversary on August 29. Also surviving are his children, Dana (and Bridget) Aunkst of Mt. Holly Springs, Lisa Aunkst of Watsontown, and Todd (and Eileen) Aunkst of Carlisle; brothers Terry Aunkst of Turbotville, and Kenneth (and Frances) Aunkst, Milton; and his grandchildren, Alison (and Patrick) Garrett of Sewickley, Katlin Aunkst (and Michael Oswald), Schnecksville, Megan Aunkst of Carlisle, Lindsey Aunkst, Philadelphia, and Steven (and Elizabeth) Romanoski, Mechanicsburg.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by twin brothers who were stillborn.

Daniel attended Watsontown High School, graduating in 1955. In 1956 he joined the U.S. Navy and served in active duty for two years, aboard the U.S.S. Salem, stationed in the Mediterranean. He also served in the Naval reserves until he was honorably discharged in 1962.

Daniel worked at several local businesses, including Glyco, Williamsport and Merck, Danville, before taking a position at Ceco Corporation in New Columbia, where he worked for 23 years. He also worked briefly at Warshaw, Milton, before retiring. He had been a member of the West Branch Volunteer Fire Department, and was a member of the Warrior Run Area Fire Department.

An avid railroad enthusiast since he was a boy, Daniel had once been a member of the Pennsylvania Railroad Society. He collected memorabilia of the Pennsylvania RR and the Reading RR, as well as photographs. He was a hobby photographer and often took his own railroad photos.

Daniel had been an outdoor sportsman, and enjoyed hunting and fly fishing in earlier years. He was an honorary member of Ye Golden Spring Hunting Club, Hartley Township. He was also a huge sports fan, and loved his Philadelphia Eagles, and Phillies, as well as Penn State football and wrestling.

His interest in geneology and tracing his family tree led him to take an interest in local history, and he joined the Warrior Run/Fort Freeland Heritage Society, and was also a member of the Watsontown Historical Association. He was also a member of the Watsontown High School Alumni Association, and had served as an officer for many years.

A private memorial will be held at the convenience of the family.  If desired, donations in Daniel's memory can be made to the Watsontown Historial Association or the Trinity United Church of Christ in Watsontown.

Arrangements are being handled by Brooks Funeral Home and Cremation Services PC, 124 Main Street, Watsontown.  To share a memory or condolence with the family please visit www.wfbrooksfuneralhome.com

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