---

Irwin J. Babyak

May 13, 2025 |

By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory

Irwin J. “Butch” Babyak, age 84, of Elizabeth Township, passed away Sunday, May 11, 2025 at Jefferson Hospital. An Army veteran, he retired as a Millwright from U.S. Steel Clairton Works after more than 30 years. He was a member of Saints Joachim and Anne Parish, Saint Michael Church in Elizabeth Township where he was a member of the Knights of Columbus. Butch was a family man who enjoyed having dinner once a week with his children and beating them at a game of cards. He enjoyed all things related to the Pennsylvania Lottery, keeping up to date with the daily drawings each evening and enjoying a scratch off ticket. He was extremely handy around the house as well, and he worked through a long list of home projects and improvements throughout his retirement. Born June 21, 1940 in Glassport, he was a son of the late Alfred and Irene (Cavanaugh) Babyak and husband of 56 years of the late Lorraine (Marcus) Babyak. He is survived by his daughter, Cheryl (Gregg) Maley of Elizabeth Township; sons, Michael Babyak of South Park and Joseph Babyak of Wilmington, NC; grandchildren, Bobby and Troy Maley and Samantha and Taylor Babyak; great-grandchildren, Jude and Raena Maley and Lacey and Cecelia Babyak; sister, Mary Ann Meyer of Elizabeth Township.; brother, William Babyak of Spring, TX; also, nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by his brother, Alfred Babyak Jr. No visitation is planned. Friends will be received at a blessing service in the Chapel at Round Hill Cemetery, Elizabeth Twp., on Friday, May 16, 2025 at 10 AM with the Rev. Thomas J. Burke officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105. Arrangements by the Paul E. Bekavac Funeral Home, Elizabeth. Offer condolences at www.bekavacfuneralhome.com.

---

Charles "Willie" Valvo

May 12, 2025 |

By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory

Charles “Willie” Valvo, age 90 of Clairton, PA, passed away on Friday, May 9, 2025 in Allegheny General Hospital of Pittsburgh. Born June 16, 1934 in Fredonia, NY, he was the son of the late Angelo and Anna (Gambino) Valvo. Willie was a US Army Veteran, served in the Korean War and was the recipient of a Purple Heart. He was a retired operator for the Clairton Municipal Authority, member of the American Legion, Daniel Keffer Post #75, and devout member of Triumph of the Holy Cross Parish, St. Clare of Assisi Church in Clairton. Willie is survived by his wife of 61 years Marlene J. (Lepri) Valvo, his children Ralph A. (Kelly) Valvo and Maryann (fiance Ed Opst) Cross. He also leaves behind his loving grandchildren Adam, Logan, and Morgan Valvo and Josh and Kirstie (A.J.) Corsan; his great grandchild Leo Corsan, his sister-in-law Beverly Mazza of Clairton and many nieces and nephews. Along with his parents, Willie was preceded in death by his siblings Ross Valvo, Nancy Behary, Tony Valvo and Jack Valvo. 

Read More

---

Michael A. Lovas I

May 11, 2025 |

By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory

Michael A. Lovas I, age 87, of West Mifflin, and formerly of Elizabeth, passed away on Friday, May 9, 2025, at Southwestern Nursing Center. He was a retired deckhand for both Ohio and Ingram Barge Lines, a US Navy veteran, and a member of the Elizabeth Fire Hall. Born June 13, 1937, in McKeesport, he was a son of the late Andrew and Veronica (Pocsik) Lovas and husband of the late Phylis Dorothy (Hoy) Lovas. He is survived by daughters, Amy May of Apollo and Tammy (Tom) Conroy of North Huntingdon; son, Michael Lovas II of Elizabeth; grandchildren, Jeramey (Zoie) Derkas and Calvin Conroy; great-granddaughter, Vyvian Renee; also, nieces and nephews. Friends will be received in the Paul E. Bekavac Funeral Home, Elizabeth on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, from 4-7 PM. A funeral service will take place on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, at 10 AM in the funeral home chapel with Pastor Dan Bach officiating. Burial will follow in Round Hill Cemetery, Elizabeth Twp. Offer condolences at www.bekavacfuneralhome.com

---

Kevin J. Gogoel

May 09, 2025 |

By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory

Kevin J. Gogoel, age 69, of Blaine Hill, passed away Friday, May 9, 2025, at Jefferson Hospital. He was a veteran of the Air Force, where he retired as a vehicle operations craftsman. He was a member of St. Joachim and Anne Parish, St. Michael Church in Elizabeth Twp. He was a former bus driver for 17 years at First Student Transportation for special needs children and a lifetime member of Blaine Hill Volunteer Fire Company. He loved attending NHRA races with his good buddy Rick. He was a jokester and had the gift of gab. Whether he was standing in the grocery line or at the bank he would stir up a conversation with anyone. Sometimes those strangers found themselves still in conversation 30 minutes later wondering why they answered him in the first place. He loved sports so much and in his younger years he played deck hockey behind the firehall. Most of the neighborhood could hear him broadcasting the game and that is where he got the nickname Myron. Born September 10, 1955, in McKeesport, he was a son of the late Stephen A. and Dorothy R. (Hamadock) Gogoel. He is survived by his sisters, Paula (Bob) Papakie of Hertford, NC, Vicki (Paul) Vespi of Blaine Hill, Terri (Terry) Rodino of Egg Harbor Twp., NJ and Jackie (Joe) Formica of South Park; brothers, Stephen Gogoel of Blaine Hill and David (Colleen) Gogoel of White Oak; also, nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins. Friends will be received in the Paul E. Bekavac Funeral Home, Elizabeth on Monday, May 12, 2025, from 9 AM until 12 Noon. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place Monday at 1 PM at St. Michael Church with the Rev. Thomas J. Burke officiating. Private burial will be in Round Hill Cemetery. Offer condolences at www.bekavacfuneralhome.com

---

Jacqueline M. McManus

May 09, 2025 |

By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory

Jacqueline “Jackie” M. McManus, age 81, of South Park and formerly of Forward Twp., passed away Thursday, May 8, 2025 at Allegheny General Hospital. She was a retired sales associate for Sears and Roebuck. She loved going to Elizabeth Seton Center in Brookline for bingo. She loved Olive Garden and spending time with her grandkids. Born February 8, 1944 in Monongahela, she was a daughter of the late Jesse R. and Florence (Moller) Hohn and wife of the late William J. “Pockets” McManus. She is survived by daughter, Diane Bullister of Castle Shannon; son, Rennie McManus of South Park; grandchildren, Erin Bullister, Sean (Emma Kurban) and Ryan Bullister; great-granddaughter, Clementine Bullister; sister, Barbara Yanko of Jefferson Hills; also, nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by sisters, Mildred Tuttle and Florence “Flossie” Trow. Friends will be received in the Paul E. Bekavac Funeral, 221 North Second Avenue, Elizabeth on Monday, May 12, 2025 from 3 PM until the time of service at 7 PM in the funeral home chapel with Pastor Daniel Bach officiating. Private burial will be in Jefferson Memorial Park. Memorial contributions may be made to Elizabeth Seton Center, 1900 Pioneer Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15226. Offer condolences at www.bekavacfuneralhome.com.

---

Rita Ann Petticord

May 09, 2025 |

By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory

Rita Ann Petticord, age 82, of Monessen, passed away Friday, May 9, 2025 at home. She enjoyed crocheting, crafts and spending time with her children and grandchildren. Born June 24, 1942 in Floreffe, she was a daughter of the late John R. and Myrtle (Lawrence) Domer and wife of the late Herbert C. Petticord Sr. She is survived by son, Herbert C. (fiance Patricia) Petticord Jr. of Bayou Vista, TX; daughters, Leslie Petticord of Mayport, Lynette Petticord of Florida, Dawn (James) Holgerson of Jefferson Hills and Sherry (Daniel) Sabatasso of Missouri; 19 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; brother, Emil Domer of Plum Borough; caregivers, Leslie Bashur and Aimee Gillingham; also, nieces and nephews. In addition her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by her siblings, Martha Drusbasky, Genevieve Ferry, Mary Randall, Barbara Janicki, and Robert, Joseph, Thomas and John Domer. Friends will be received in the Paul E. Bekavac Funeral Home, 221 North Second Avenue, Elizabeth, on Saturday, May 10, 2025 from 4-7 PM. A funeral service will be Monday, May 12, 2025 at 10 AM in the Round Hill Cemetery chapel with the Rev. Ed Pope officiating. EVERYONE PLEASE MEET AT THE CEMETERY CHAPEL. Burial will follow. Offer condolences at www.bekavacfuneralhome.com. 

---

Bessie L. Huston

May 07, 2025 |

By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory

Bessie Lee (Picketts) Huston, age 96, of Forward Twp., passed away on Tuesday, May 6, 2025 at Mon Valley Care Center Nursing Home in Carroll Twp. Bessie has left a lasting void in the hearts of those who loved her. She was born August 1, 1928 in Glassport to Abraham and Adelaide (Steffan) Picketts. The family moved to Pangburn Hollow Road where Bessie resided her entire life. This is where she met and married her husband of 47 years, Charles W. Huston Sr., who passed away in 1993. Bessie loved visiting her son at his winter home in Florida, going to the dances on Wednesday nights at the American Legion in Monongahela and definitely enjoyed the bright, beautiful sun. Bessie worked as an aide at Lawson Nursing Home then retired from Jefferson Hospital in Jefferson Hills. She is survived by her five children, Charles W. Huston Jr. of New Eagle, Clarence Terry (Janet) Huston of Monongahela, Susan (Joe) Perine of Monongahela, Laurie (Edward) Izzo of Rostraver and David (Darlene) Huston of Bentleyville; grandchildren, Michael Huston, Randy and Ryan Perine, Lindsey (Chris) and Emily Izzo, Adam Fine, and Matthew, Jeffrey and Michael Fitch; 17 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; her extended family whom she loved and called her own, Thomas (Judy) Rippel of Alabama, Darlene (Steve) Wales of North Carolina and Richard (Karen) Rippel of Michigan; brother, Daniel Picketts of Ohio; also, many nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents and husband, Bessie was preceded in death by a daughter at birth, Johann Beth Huston; longtime companion, John T. Rippel; daughter-in-law, Susan Ann Huston; son-in-law, Charles Perine; grandsons, Wesley Huston and Anthony Perine; granddaughter, Tara Huston; sisters, Glory Norris, Mary “Patty” Gallichio and Elizabeth DeHart; and brother, David Picketts. The family would like to extend a special thank you to all the girls who helped Bessie at MVCC, especially Margaret, Stephanie, Amanda, Sandy, Cara, Lynn, Zoe, Tina, Karen and our special activity person, Sally. Also, to Tracy, Joan and Pastor Ken of Via Quest Hospice Care - thank you for your caring attention to Bessie’s every need. Friends will be received in the Paul E. Bekavac Funeral Home, 221 North Second Avenue, Elizabeth on Thursday, May 8, 2025 from 4-8 PM. A funeral service will take place on Friday, May 9, 2025 at 10 AM in the funeral home chapel with Chaplain Ken Silva Sr. officiating. Burial will follow in Jefferson Memorial Park, Pleasant Hills. Offer condolences at www.bekavacfuneralhome.com.

---

Daniel J. Pavlic

May 03, 2025 |

By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory

Daniel Joseph Pavlic, age 87 of McCandless Twp. and formerly of Elizabeth Twp., peacefully went home to be with our Lord Jesus Christ on May 2, 2025.  A beloved husband, father, grandfather, and proud Croatian-American, Dan lived a life full of music, faith, and devotion to his family and heritage.  He is survived by his loving wife and soulmate of 62 years, Nancy (Dziak) Pavlic, who stood by his side through every season of life.

Dan was born May 16, 1937 in Versailles, he was a son of the late Joseph and Lucy (Burkovich) Pavlic.  Born with a love for music, Dan began performing as a solo accordionist at the age of 8, enchanting local audiences at events like Kennywood's Croatian Day.  By high school, he was performing with the "Cafe Boys," delighting crowds with his talent and charm.  After graduating from McKeesport High School in 1955, he went on to study music at Duquesne University, where he was a featured accordionist and dancer with the renowned Duquesne University Tamburitzans.  It was during his time with the "Tammies" that he fell in love with Nancy as they performed and toured the country together.  

Following his graduation, Dan proudly served his country as a Captain in the Airborne Rangers, serving in Germany, from 1960 to 1965.  He later earned a master's degree in business administration and dedicated his professional life to Robert Morris University, where he served in various roles and was a beloved golf coach.  His mentorship left a lasting impact on students and colleagues alike.  

Dan was the rock of the family - a true patriarch who led with quiet strength, wisdom, and unwavering love.  He was unconditionally loved by his late son, Jeffrey (Denise) Pavlic, and his daughters Karen (John) Aromando and Pamela (Charles) Cubelic.  He is also survived by his cherished grandchildren: Elizabeth (Dean) Maddox, Daniel (Emily) Aromando, Victoria Cubelic, Christian Aromando, Charles J. Cubelic, and Josh Cooley; his great-grandchild Cody Arneth; his brother Robert (Debra) Pavlic of Stuart, FL; his sister Annette (Allan) Weiss of Mt. Vernon; and also nieces and nephews.  

He was an avid golfer and fisherman, a devoted fan of lamb roasts, and a proud celebrator of his Croatian heritage as a member of the CFU Lodge #146 of Versailles.  He also had a deep love of Slovenian polkas and Pittsburgh Sports - cheering on his hometown teams (with slightly wavering loyalty and a few expletives.)  But above all, his greatest interest and deepest joy was always his family.  

Those who knew Dan will remember his sharp sense of humor, his unwavering values, and his black-and-white, straight-laced approach to life.  He leaves behind a legacy of laughter, tradition, and strength - but most importantly, a heart that beat with a deep and abiding love of his family.

Read More

---

Roberta "Bertie" E. (Wray) Morrison

May 02, 2025 |

By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory

Roberta E. "Bertie" (Wray) Morrison, age 99 of McMurray and formerly of Elrama, passed away on Thursday, May 1, 2025 at Paramount Senior Living at Peters Township. Roberta was a daughter of James and Bessie (Schneider) Wray.  She was a clerk for U.S. Steel, Clairton Works.  Roberta is survived by nieces and nephews.  Besides her parents, she was preceded in death by her sisters Faye Grimm, Harriet Montana and Irene Newhouse and her husband Michael Morrison, who died on October 3, 2004. 

Read More

---

Dorothy Ann Bell

April 30, 2025 |

By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory

Dorothy Ann Bell, age 97, of Elizabeth Twp., formerly of Clairton, passed away Saturday, April 26, 2025 at home. Born September 9, 1927 in Canonsburg, she was a daughter of the late Frank and Elizabeth Kanish and wife of the late Robert Edward Bell Sr.  She is survived by her sons, Robert E. (Lin) Bell Jr. of Elizabeth Twp., Michael (Barbara) Bell of Dravosburg and John (Mary) Bell of Elizabeth Twp.; eight grandchildren; numerous great-grandchildren; also, nieces and nephews. No visitation or services are planned. Arrangements by the Paul E. Bekavac Funeral Home, Elizabeth. Offer condolences at www.bekavacfuneralhome.com.

---

Timothy D. Lacey

April 29, 2025 |

By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory

Timothy D. Lacey, age 77 of Elizabeth Twp., passed away on Monday, April 28, 2025 at UPMC St. Margaret.  Born April 13, 1948 in Buena Vista, he was a son of the late Thomas and Marie (Taylor) Lacey.  Tim was a graduate of the University of Pittsburgh, the owner of Tom Lacey and Sons in Elizabeth and an Army Veteran during the Vietnam conflict.  He was a member of Mount Vernon Community Presbyterian Church in McKeesport, the Moose Lodge, and the Buena Vista Fire Hall.  Tim was also a former member of the Youghiogheny Country Club and coached kids’ baseball in the area for many years.  An avid golfer, hunter, and fisherman, he will be remembered as a loving husband, father, and grandfather.  Tim is survived by his wife of 55 years Gail (Holden) Lacey of Elizabeth; daughter Beth (Todd) Longreen of Westminster, MD; sons Timothy C. (Janelle) Lacey of Newport, KY and Michael (Annette) Lacey of Hudson, OH; grandchildren Katelyn Longreen and Tim, Emily, Michael, Jacob, Sam, and Hannah Lacey; brother Mitchell (Kathy) Lacey of Espyville; also a niece and nephews.

Read More

---

James R. "Rich" Deanovich, Sr.

April 28, 2025 |

By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory

James Richard Deanovich, Sr., age 85, of Jefferson Hills, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on Saturday, April 26, 2025. A proud Marine veteran having served from 1958-1961, he was a barber in Clairton for more than 50 years and was affectionately known as “Rich the Barber.” He was a member of St. John XXIII Parish, St. Francis of Assisi Church in Finleyville. He loved golfing and enjoyed his Friday night high school football games. Born February 5, 1940 in Elizabeth, he was a son of the late Milan Deanovich Sr. and Anna Mae (Tortorice) Deanovich. He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth (Kichan) Deanovich; children, Rich (Angela) Deanovich of Jefferson Hills and Sharon (Mark) Fedor of Jefferson Hills; grandchildren, Luke, Marisa, Kevin and Mark; also, nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Milan Deanovich Jr. No visitation or services are planned. Private burial and military service is in National Cemetery of the Alleghenies, Bridgeville. Arrangements by the Paul E. Bekavac Funeral Home, Elizabeth. Offer condolences at www.bekavacfuneralhome.com

---

Jane W. Ellis

April 28, 2025 |

By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory

Jane W. Ellis, age 98, of The Villages, FL, formerly of Elizabeth, passed away Friday, April 25, 2025 at Serenades at The Villages. She retired as a credit manager for J.C. Penney in West Mifflin and was a member of Elizabeth United Methodist Church. Jane moved to Elizabeth with her family when she was 8 years old. She loved visiting her family, reading, and playing cards. She was a past member of the Elizabeth Women's Club, Wilson AARP and Elizabeth and Forward Township Senior Citizens. A very special thank you to Ross and Nancy Douglas, who did many kind things for her. Born July 22, 1926 in Lincoln Twp., she was a daughter of the late Harry and Stella (Vay) Wright and wife of the late John "Jack" M. Ellis. She is survived by daughters, Cathy (Ben) Luczka of The Villages, FL and Nancy Clark of Silver Spring, MD; granddaughters, Janelle Luczka of Swanee, GA, Amy (Scott) Wiebold of Savannah, GA, Hillary Clark of Silver Spring, MD and Melissa (Umer Quershi) Clark of Houston, TX; great-grandchildren, Ryan, Evan and Logan of Georgia, Dylan, Addison and Andrew of Maryland and Elias of Texas; sister, Blanche Elmore of Fairfield, CT; brother, Rich Wright of The Villages, FL; also, many nieces, nephews and cousins. In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by son, John "Doc" M. Ellis Jr. and brother, Jack Wright. Friends will be received in the Paul E. Bekavac Funeral Home, 221 North Second Avenue, Elizabeth on Saturday, May 3, 2025 from 10 AM until the time of service at 12 Noon in the funeral home chapel with Pastor Ed Pope officiating. Burial will follow in Jefferson Memorial Park, Pleasant Hills. Offer condolences at www.bekavacfuneralhome.com.

---

Julia L. Ford

April 28, 2025 |

By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory

Julia L. Ford, age 97, of Elizabeth Twp., passed away Saturday, April 26, 2025 at Kane Community Living Center – Glen Hazel. She worked for many years as a housekeeper in a hotel in Honolulu and she loved orchids. Born June 16, 1927 in Honolulu, HI, she was a daughter of the late Charles and Julia (Hale) Sing and wife of the late Calvin L. Ford. She is survived by children, Elaine U. Schumann of Elizabeth Twp., Marilynn McCabe of Hamburg, NY, Glenn (Nancy) Ford of Pasadena, CA, Joanne Demetrial of Kaneohe, HI, Bradley (Joanna) Ford of Waiane, HI and Warren (Carol) Ford of Palolo, HI; and was affectionately known as “Tutu” to her numerous loving grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren. In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by her sons, Allen and Wayne Ford. Friends will be received in the Paul E. Bekavac Funeral Home, 221 North Second Avenue, Elizabeth on Friday, May 2, 2025 from 10 AM until the time of service at 12 Noon in the funeral home chapel with Pastor Dan Bach officiating. Burial will follow in Round Hill Cemetery, Elizabeth Twp. Memorial contributions may be made to UPMC Children’s Hospital Foundation, PO Box 535240, Pittsburgh, PA 15253-5240. Offer condolences at www.bekavacfuneralhome.com.

---

Alvin B. King

April 26, 2025 |

By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory

Alvin B. King, age 83 of Jefferson Hills and formerly of Clairton, passed away on Friday, April 25, 2025.  Born October 22, 1941 in Pittsburgh and raised in North Braddock, he was a son of the late Alvin M. King and Mae D. (Rosenberger) Scott.  A retiree from GM's Fisher Body Plant in West Mifflin, Alvin was a Veteran of the US Army and a member of Pine Run United Methodist Church.  His family will remember him as a simple man and a loving father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who loved to spend quality time with his family, especially trips out for breakfast.  Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 54 years Dorothy Jean (Svacs) King, who passed away on May 12, 2020; his son Richard J. Raposky, who passed away March 11, 2023; his grandson Jason Michael Graham, who passed away February 2, 2016; and his brother Bill King.  Alvin is survived by his daughters Deborah (Mark) Graham of West Mifflin and Lynnette (Ray) Zajac of Pleasant Hills; his grandchildren Nicole (Scott) Karel, Kari Zajac, Amanda (John) Vojtko, Rachel (Adam) Zajac, Abby (Matt) Zajac, Kevin Massaro, and Brittney, Alyssa, Brandon, Ryan, Aiden, Mason, and Jacelyn Graham; his great-grandchildren Savannah, Shawn "Junior," E.J., Mia, Riley, Hailey, Logan, Gabby, and Nathan; and also nieces and nephews.

Read More