Stephen James Placko, 54, of Montrose and Crystal Lake, died unexpectedly on Monday, January 20, 2003, after surgery at Endless Mountains Health Systems. His wife of 28 years is the former Paula Poinsard Kiley.

Born in Johnstown, son of Kathleen Placko, Bernardsville, N.J., and the late Stephen Placko, who died in 1998, he was raised in Bernardsville and was a graduate of Bernardsville High School. He held a bachelor of science degree in secondary education from Duquesne University and a master of science degree in counselor education from Hofstra University. He completed course work for his elementary education certification at College Misericordia, Dallas, and earned elementary principal and supervisor of pupil personnel services certificates from the University of Scranton. He also earned a superintendent's letter of eligibility in the Temple University Doctoral Program.

He was principal at Choconut Valley Elementary School since 1985. He previously served as elementary guidance counselor for the Hanover Area School District, elementary and secondary guidance counselor for the Lake-Lehman School District and assistant dean for residence life at Wilkes University.  He was also an adjunct professor at the University of Scranton where he taught a graduate class in counseling.

His passions in life were his students, golf, animals and the New York Yankees.

Also surviving are a son, Ryan; a brother, Michael, Clayton, N.J.; and three nieces.

Friends may call Friday, 3 to 4:30 and 6 to 8 p.m., at the Daniel K. Regan Funeral Home, 64 S. Main St., Montrose.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, February 1, 2003, at 11:00 a.m. at the Choconut Valley Elementary School.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Dessin Animal Shelter, RR 3, Box 3043, Honesdale, 18431 or to the Stephen J. Placko Memorial Scholarship Fund, c/o Community Bank & Trust, 61 Church St., Montrose, PA 18801.