John M. "Yoni" Chilinskas, age 63, former Mayor of Mahanoy City, died Friday morning at Schuylkill Center in Pottsville.  Born at the former Locust Mountain Hospital, he was the son of the late Leonard and Matilda (McElhenny) Chilinskas.  He was a 1970 graduate of Mahanoy Area High School.  Yoni was a desk clerk and dispatcher for the Mahanoy City Police Department, worked at the Schuylkill County Courthouse as well as SCI Mahanoy and Frackville.  He was and avid Notre Dame fan and enjoyed golfing.  He especially enjoyed the camaraderie of his friends gathered daily in front of the Mahanoy City Food Store.
Survivors include 2 sisters Mary Theresa Patrick and her husband Frank of Frackville, Bonnie Richards of Mahanoy City, a brother William "Bill Chilinskas and his wife Karen of Grier City, nieces and nephews.  Relatives and friends are invited to attend graveside services at St. Canicus Cemetery on Tuesday morning at 11 AM with the Rev. Fred T. Crawford officiating. There will not be any calling hours. David D. Jarrett Funeral Home of Mahanoy City is entrusted with arrangements.  Please visit www.jarrettfuneralhome.com for more information.