Sister Dorothy Bucko

september 27, 1931 - august 13, 2021

Sister M. Dorothy Bucko (formerly Sister M. Maria), a member of the School Sisters of St. Francis, United States Province, died on August 13, 2021, in Villa Clare at Monocacy Manor in Bethlehem, Pa. She was 89.

Sister entered the community from SS. Cyril and Methodius Church in Bethlehem, Pa., in 1949 and professed her first vows in 1951 at Mount Assisi Convent Chapel in Pittsburgh, Pa. She earned a bachelor’s degree in music from Manhattanville College in Purchase, N.Y.

Sister Dorothy taught the elementary grades in various schools in Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, and New Jersey, and ministered as principal in Pennsylvania. She also was the parish organist in the respective parishes and gave piano lessons to many students. Sister left the community in 1983 and reentered in 2009. Her last years were spent at Villa Clare, Monocacy Manor, as a faithful participant in the prayer ministry.

Sister Dorothy was preceded in death by her parents, John Paul and Helen (Kametz) Bucko. She is survived by her religious community; her sister, Marie Scarlett; her niece, Dr. Sue Scarlett; and cousins.

Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Sunday, August 22, and from 10 to 10:45 a.m. Monday, August 23, at Monocacy Manor in Bethlehem, Pa. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. on Monday, August 23, in Immaculate Heart of Mary Chapel at Monocacy Manor. Arrangements have been made by Connell Funeral Home, Bethlehem, Pa. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the School Sisters of St. Francis Retirement Fund, 395 Bridle Path Road, Bethlehem PA 18017.