Morgan John Prokop, 31, Scranton, passed away unexpectedly Friday morning at home.
Born in 1985 in Scranton, he was the son of Clifton Prokop and Beth Burkhauser, both of Scranton. Morgan was educated in East Scranton Public Schools and was a graduate of Scranton High School, class of 2004. He earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Communications with a minor in Theater from the University of Scranton in 2008. In recent years, he also pursued a Master’s Degree in Counseling from the University. He attended Immaculate Conception Church. He had been employed as Primary Therapist at the Just Believe Recovery Center of Carbondale.
In addition to being a loving, loyal son, brother, uncle, and nephew as well as a dedicated and talented drug and alcohol counselor, Morgan was an animated member of AA and PENNSCYPAA – both major cornerstones of his journey through life.
Highly intelligent and forever curious, Morgan sought to live his life with greater purpose. He had generosity of spirit and high expectations for himself and others, but was open-minded, non-judgmental and patient. His best work, and the most effective periods of his life, were achieved as he sought spiritual well-being, relied on inspiration, prayed for, and accepted God’s plan for him.
An “empath” from earliest years, Morgan felt others’ feelings, sought connection, communication and understanding. As an adult, he combined his creativity and knowledge with a resolute mission to be God’s agent, to joyously, freely and passionately help others without any expectations in return. His spiritual guides were the 12-Step program, private counseling and his amazing recovery community of enlightened beings.
He possessed the kind of creative spirit that could guide others to discover, believe in, grasp and act upon the next best step in their lives. He was a blessing to many of his friends in the Fellowship and, more recently, his clients.
Along with his friends, family and girlfriend, Morgan’s greatest joy was music. He was happiest when enveloped in his music and his DJ/Mixing performances. Dancing was his physical pathway to the Soul. He also enjoyed games of all kinds, “cosmic banter,” dance parties, and weird, wacky humor.
Those who knew Morgan will forever miss his bright smile and infectious laughter, his inquisitive mind, and his sensitive, hopeful, and beautiful soul. His heart was full of love, compassion and kindness. He will always be remembered as a loving son, brother, uncle, mentor, mentee, friend and insightful poet by those whose lives he irreversibly touched.
Also surviving are his sister Andrea Cummings and her husband Michael Cummings of Dunmore; a nephew, Owen Cummings; aunts; uncles; cousins; many friends; numerous members of the AA community and girlfriend, Kim Salamone.
He was preceded in death by his paternal and maternal grandparents, Colene and Andrew J. Prokop, of Vienna, VA and Joan and John A. Burkhauser of Trenton, NJ, and one uncle, Jack Burkhauser.
Friends may call Thursday, September 14 from 4:00-7:00 PM in the Vanston and James Funeral Home, 1401 Ash St., Scranton.
Funeral services will be held at Immaculate Conception Church, 800 Taylor Ave., Scranton, on Friday, September 15, at 10:00 AM, with interment at the convenience of the family.
Morgan’s wish was that the epidemic of drug deaths be stopped through spiritual practices and funding for educational and prevention programs. The family asks that, in lieu of flowers, contributions be made in Morgan’s memory to EOTC, which develops such programming for women, parents and families – or to a charity or agency of choice.
EOTC Seventh Avenue Center
431 North 7th Avenue
Scranton, PA 18503-2103
Joe McNulty
Beth I’m so sorry for your loss. Not long ago we spoke by the garage and he looked and sounded so good. If there is anything I can do please let me know. His death has caused a lot of heartache but lots of stories of Morgan Again let me know if there is anyway I can help
Michelle
Rest In Peace, old friend. You will never be forgotten. Xoxo.
Ruma Marshall
Beth, I am extremely saddened to hear about this and I didn’t know Morgan personally but reading about him makes me feel like he was a beautiful soul taken too soon and he was very much loved and will continue to be loved by many. My condolence to you and your family during this difficult time.
K donahue
Deepest sympathy & warm thoughts for days ahead Cliff & Beth.
Margaret Polifko
Beth, we spent many years together working on school projects, had little time to share family , but I do share your pain and heartbreak with the loss of a child. Please stay well and hope all of the future is positive and good for you.
Carol Fontana Lameo
Beth and Cliff,
Words cannot express how sorry to hear about the loss of your son.
Carol Fontana Lameo
Jane Honchell
Dear Cliff, Beth, and family, my heart goes out to you at this sad time. Please know you are in my thoughs and prayers. Strength, fortitude, and love!
Joann & Jim Igoe
We are so very sorry for your families loss. I can’t begin to imagine losing a child no matter what the age. The obit was so beautifully written and heartfelt.
May you find comfort in your memories of Morgan and may he Rest in Peace.
God bless you and your family.
With our sincere condolences.
Vicki Nicholas
Beth and Cliff, my heart aches for you and your family. I’m so sorry. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Love, Vicki Nicholas
BSL
I was a former co-worker of Morgan’s. We started at ABT together and for a time we co facilitated evening groups together. He taught me that games are just as important in teaching social skills, as a lecture can be. I’m heart broken about his loss ….the circumstances, and the grief felt by those who love him most. – in saying that….I need to point out the lesson I have learned by the loss of Morgan’s light in the world…., I learned…that I need to remember that levels of education, career status etc. can mean little in the face of mental and spiritual pain. Morgan has taught me that I must be aware of my irrational expectations of self. I need to admit and address the imagined expectations I feel others place upon me. I learned that my inability to admit my fears and insecurities and address them…will kill me…..
Even in his passing Morgan has taught me a much needed lesson. May peace be yours Morgan. And may his family find peace and comfort in the knowledge that Morgan continues to teach …..
Melissa Restuccia
Cliff & Beth,
I am so sorry for your loss. Such a sad time- may your art help heal the pain.
Sincerely,
Melissa Crane Restuccia