Verna (Checker) Kounas

Verna Kounas (née Checker), 83, of Fairview Township, passed away on August 27, 2020 at UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg Hospital. Daughter of the late Peter and Lillian (Kretas) Checker, she was born on April 21, 1937 in New London, CT.

Verna was a gifted classical pianist who performed and choreographed ensembles all her life and is remembered as such by those who performed with and studied under her. She taught students in both the Greek and local communities. Although Verna didn't play sports, she was an enthusiastic and loyal Orioles fan. She was an avid gardener and loved tending to her roses. She had an amazing memory and enjoyed playing cards with her grandchildren and close friends.

Surviving Verna are her three children, Melany Williams (Peter) of San Francisco, CA, Valerie Sponseller of Harrisburg, and David Kounas (Shanna) of Pittsburgh; four grandchildren (whom she adored), Melany and Christian Sponseller, and Ashton and Ethan Kounas; a brother, Nicholas Checker of New London, CT, and several nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, Verna was preceded in death by her husband of 51 years, Chris Kounas; and her sisters, Renee Wilke of Orange Park, FL and Carole Joyce of Phoenix, AZ.

Due to social distancing restrictions, services will be private and held at the convenience of the family. Verna will be laid to rest alongside her husband in Mt. Holly Springs Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Verna’s name to the Saint Catherine’s Philoptochos – Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 1000 Yverdon Drive, Camp Hill, PA 17011.