SCRANTON, Pa. (Tribue News Service) Walter Pasiak lived history. As a 19-year-old Army private, he grabbed the only available weapon a rifle as he tried to defend the U.S. fleet at Pearl Harbor. Three years later, in New Guinea, he helped secure a Japanese airfield, fighting at Hollandia on the north coast of the island and earning the Bronze Star. As the last known survivor of Pearl Harbor residing in Lackawanna County, Pasiak taught younger generations about service and sacrifice. He died Sunday as a war hero, loving uncle and connection to the past. The 98-year-old South Scranton resident remained independent, driving and living on his own until November, when he tested positive for COVID-19. Other health issues arose during his recovery, and hopes of his return home diminished.