February 12, 2025 |
By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory
Kathleen A. Raszewski, age 66, of Forward Twp., passed away Friday, February 7, 2025 at home. She was a retired mammographer and bone density technologist for UPMC and a member of Sts. Joachim and Anne Parish, St. Michael Church in Elizabeth Twp. She was a hard worker, and enjoyed socializing with friends and shopping with her mother. Born October 30, 1958 in McKeesport, she was a daughter of Pauline (Squires) Raszewski and the late Louis Raszewski. In addition to her mother, she is survived by her brother, Michael A. Raszewski, with whom she resided with her mother; and cousins. Visitation and services were private. Memorial contributions can be made to Little Sisters of the Poor, 1028 Benton Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15212. Arrangements by the Paul E. Bekavac Funeral Home, Elizabeth. Offer condolences at www.bekavacfuneralhome.com.
February 12, 2025 |
By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory
Stella Godlesky, age 100, of Forward Twp., formerly of Elizabeth, passed away on Monday, February 10, 2025, at home surrounded by her children. She was a member of St. Joachim and Anne Parish, St. Michael Church in Elizabeth Twp., where she was a former member of the St. Michael Christian Mothers and the church sacristan. Stella happily shared memories of her personal and family history throughout her life. Living through the Great Depression and World War II impacted her greatly. She worked at Westinghouse Corp. during World War II. She was inducted into the Rosie the Riveter Association for her work during the war effort, something she was very proud of. Born May 15, 1924, she was the daughter of Polish immigrants, the late Anthony and Katherine (Cheskawich) Levdansky, and she was the wife of the late Stanley P. Godlesky. Stan and Stella loved country music and they loved dancing, especially the polka. Stella had an adventurous spirit. Summer vacations to Nantucket, Maryland, DC, Florida, Colorado, and visiting Ellis Island for the first time were highlights. Stella was always open to new experiences: trout fishing with her son, taking long drives through the mountains, hiking, swimming, water sliding, and actively taking part in the annual camping trips at Black Moshannon State Park for more than four decades. She loved to cook and bake and she enjoyed Polish food, especially her own: stuffed cabbages, halushki, pierogi and her homemade rolls. She is survived by children, Teresa (Robert) Modrak of Mt. Lebanon, Thomas (Karen) Godlesky of Huntsville, AL, Christine (Bud) Schubel of Franklin Park, Kathleen Godlesky of Rockville, MD, Janice Godlesky of Forward Twp. and Monica (Lou) Davies of Vanderbilt; Stella always considered her three sons-in law, Bob, Bud and Lou, and her daughter-in-law, Karen, her “sons” and “daughter” and was so very grateful to have them in her life. She is also survived by her nine wonderful grandchildren, Ryan, Eric and Kevin Modrak, Katie and Cara Godlesky, Nick and Laura Schubel, Trisha Adams and Cassandra Davies; also, nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by siblings, Anne (Anthony) Belak, Helen (George) Emsurak and Joseph, Walter (Irene), Charles (Jean) and Anthony (Joan) Levdansky. Stella loved family above all else. Her role in life was to be a loving Mother and Grandmother (Grammy) to her children. She succeeded in her mission. When Stella celebrated her 100th birthday last May, her final words at the celebration were: “I’d do it all over again!” Our mother's secret to longevity: "Be happy, laugh, and have fun!" Part of the Greatest Generation, our mother was a woman who worked hard her whole life and never complained. She was a true role model and gift to us all. "Mom, you are our Queen, and we love you with all of our hearts." There will be No Visitation. Mass of Christian Burial will be Friday, February 14, 2025, at 12 Noon at St. Michael Church, 101 McLay Drive, Elizabeth Twp. EVERYONE PLEASE MEET AT THE CHURCH. Burial will be in Round Hill Cemetery, Elizabeth Twp. Arrangements by the Paul E. Bekavac Funeral Home, Elizabeth. Offer condolences at www.bekavacfuneralhome.com.
February 11, 2025 |
By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory
Kenneth P. Berry Sr., age 88, of Forward Twp. and formerly of Beechview, passed away on Monday, February 10, 2025 at Kane Community Living Center – McKeesport. He was a retired self-employed home remodeler. Born June 1, 1936 in Pittsburgh, he was a son of the late Michael and Anna (Jacobs) Berry. He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Catherine M. (Hogben) Berry; daughters, Denise (Carl) Fekula of Forward Twp. and Lisa (Alex) Zdinak of Weirton, WV; sons, Kenneth (Marilyn) Berry Jr. of Brookline, Keith (Rosie) Berry of Ellwood City, Gregory (Jennifer) Berry of Waynesburg and Scott (Carrie) Berry of Canfield, OH; 18 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; also, nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by son, Steven Berry, and brother, Michael Berry. Friends will be received in the Paul E. Bekavac Funeral Home, 221 North Second Avenue, Elizabeth on Friday, February 14, 2025 from 4-7 PM. A funeral service will take place on Saturday, February 15, 2025 at 11 AM in the funeral home chapel with Pastor Ed Pope officiating. Private burial will be in Mount Lebanon Cemetery, Pittsburgh. Memorial contributions can be made to the American Cancer Society, PO Box 1640, Hagerstown, MD 21741. Offer condolences at www.bekavacfuneralhome.com.
February 11, 2025 |
By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory
Teresa Ann “Terry” Spernak, age 70, of Mt. Lebanon, passed away Sunday, February 9, 2025 at St. Clair Hospital. She retired from the Mt. Lebanon School District after working several years at the Federal Reserve Bank and a short time at Mellon Bank. She was a member of St. Winifred Church in Mt. Lebanon, always welcomed everyone and always treated everyone like family. She had several jobs in life, but her most important and favorite was being a mother and taking care of her children, who were her world. She enjoyed hosting Sunday family dinners, disco and dancing, bingo, smiley faces, word search, and cards, and she loved her grandpups. Born November 3, 1954 in Pittsburgh, she was a daughter of the late John and Audrey (Pioth) Nicolazzo. She is survived by her husband of 44 years, Dennis “Fuzzy” Spernak; daughters, Stephanie (Brendan) Miller of Brentwood, Ashley (Jordan Brueggman) Spernak of Mt. Lebanon and Emily (Chris) Vactor of Bethel Park; and brother, Dannie (Carol) Nicolazzo of Robinson. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by sister, Darlene Vargo. A memorial gathering in the Paul E. Bekavac Funeral Home, 221 North Second Avenue, Elizabeth, will be Saturday, February 22, 2025 from 1 PM until the time of blessing at 4 PM with the Rev. Thomas J. Burke officiating. Offer condolences at www.bekavacfuneralhome.com.
February 07, 2025 |
By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory
With loved ones at her side, Camille Louise Demeis transitioned on January 31, 2025, joining her mother (Frances), her father (Frank) and brother (Mike) in God’s care. Born May 19, 1963 in McKeesport, Camille’s sweet and fiery personality will be missed immensely by her sisters Eileen Koscho, (husband George and son Aron), Marian Rowan (husband Jim and son Josh), Roseann (daughter Angela and son Anthony) and Bernadette and her brothers Frank (daughter Ren), Leo (wife Jean, daughters Stephanie, Julie and Leah), Dan, Joe (wife Patti and daughter Erica and son Jake) and Jack (wife Lynn). Camille had a keen sense for fashion and accessorizing and was always the queen of the runway. She was very athletic also. Her favorite sport was swimming and she competed in multiple Special Summer Olympics. Everyone was very proud of the numerous medals she won. Camille was a gift to her family. The life lessons that she taught them and stories she created will live with them forever.
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February 06, 2025 |
By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory
Richard W. Hannegan, age 82, of Clairton passed away on Wednesday, February 5, 2025 surrounded by his family at home. Born September 24, 1942 in McKeesport, he was a son of the late Reed W. and Betty (Whoolery) Hannegan. He was a member of the US Army serving during Vietnam War and retired as a Welder at US Steel. He was a member of the VFW in Wilson, the American Legion in Port Vue, and the WACC Club in Wilson. An avid golfer, Richard was also a member of the Happy Hackers Club. Richard is survived by his wife of 54 years Dorothy J. (Kovalak) Hannegan; daughter Richelle M. Hannegan of Glassport; son Christopher P. (Julie) Hannegan of Lewis Center, OH; and grandson Zane Hannegan.
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February 04, 2025 |
By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory
Joan B. "Jobie" Beckowitz, age 95 of Conway, SC and formerly of Lincoln Borough, passed away at home of Saturday, February 1, 2025. Born October 31, 1929 in Hutchison, PA, she was a daughter of the late Andrew and Irene (Kertes) Iski. A retired cafeteria worker at South Allegheny High School, Joan was an active member of Port Vue United Methodist Church. She was a well respected member of the community as well as a dedicated wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. In her lifetime, she was a member of several organizations in Lincoln Borough -- including the Lincoln Borough Mothers' Club and the Lincoln Borough Ladies Auxiliary -- and provided assistance to any and all who were in need. She spent a lifetime of caring for others and for her community. Joan was also a member of the Senior Citizens of Conway, SC, and her favorite color was orchid. Besides her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband Joseph "Joe" M. Beckowitz; her daughter Gaylynn Davis; and her siblings Mary Bestwick, Ann Tomaino, Irene Kovalyak, and Andrew, Gabriel, Frank, Charles, and Joseph Iski. Joan is survived by her children Sandy (the late Steve) Pace of Perry, GA, Deborah (the late Tom Moseley) Bramlet of Conway, SC, Mark (Dhari) Beckowitz of Rock Hill, SC, and Randy (Dan) Makela of Dover, PA; her eight grandchildren; her eleven great-grandchildren; her sisters Rose Zilich of Canonsburg and Betty Anatori of Liberty Borough; and many nieces and nephews.
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February 03, 2025 |
By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory
Patricia A. (Metzler) Young, age 76, of Elizabeth Twp., passed away on Friday, January 31, 2025, at Jefferson Hospital. She began her career at US Steel where she worked as a typist file clerk and retired as a bookkeeper from Fayco Rentals Inc. in Uniontown. An avid bowler, she was a co-founder and ran the Over and Under the Hill Gang Bowling League for more than 33 years at 51 Lanes, now AMF Bowling in Rostraver Township. She was a Girl Scout troop leader in Elizabeth Twp., and enjoyed baking, cooking, and gardening with her husband. Born in West Mifflin on April 19, 1948, she was a daughter of the late Charles T. and Alice M. (Hallas) Metzler. Left to cherish her memory include her husband of 54 years, Robert M. Young; two children, Timothy (Christine) Young of Bay City, MI, and Summer (Marty) Zueger of Perryopolis; a granddaughter, Alana Young; also, nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her siblings, Ray, Alice and Duane. No viewing or services are planned. Memorial contributions can be made to the American Cancer Society, PO Box 1640, Hagerstown, MD 21741. Arrangements by the Paul E. Bekavac Funeral Home, Elizabeth. Offer condolences at www.bekavacfuneralhome.com.
February 03, 2025 |
By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory
Kenneth R. Peairs, age 92, of Duquesne, passed away Saturday, February 1, 2025 surrounded by his family at Select Specialty Hospital in Pittsburgh. An Army veteran of the Korean War, he retired as a safety supervisor at Hercules Jefferson Plant in Jefferson Hills. He was a member of St. Thomas the Apostle Parish in Duquesne and VFW Post 803 in Clairton. He enjoyed hunting, golfing and playing cards with his friends, but most of all spending time with his family. Born September 18, 1932 in McKeesport, he was the son of the late Kenneth H. and Lillian B. (Elesic) Peairs. He is survived by his loving wife of 68 years, Louise M. (Long) Peairs; daughters, Karen Peairs of Pittsburgh and Kristine “Tina” (Tom) Connelly of Elizabeth Twp.; grandchildren, Christopher (Kasey) Connelly, Jordan (Gregory) Spiker and Sean Peairs Connelly; Pappy Moose to Riley, Austin and Caden; also, nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by son, Donald “P.J.” Peairs. Friends will be received in the Paul E. Bekavac Funeral Home, 221 North Second Avenue, Elizabeth, on Wednesday, February 5, 2025 from 2-7 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be Thursday, February 6, 2025 at 10 AM at St. Joseph Church in Duquesne with Rev. Dan D’Antonio officiating. Burial will be in St. Joseph Cemetery in West Mifflin. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or a charity of one’s choice. Offer condolences at www.bekavacfuneralhome.com.
January 31, 2025 |
By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory
Stacy R. "Peanut" Ryan, age 56 of Smithton, passed away on Sunday, Janaury 26, 2025 in Excela Westmoreland Hospital, Greensburg. Born June 20, 1968, Stacy worked as a home health aide for many years. She was an animal lover and volunteer with the Westmoreland County Humane Society. She also loved the outdoors and nature, going camping and holding bonfires. Stacy will be loved and missed very much by all who knew her. She is survived by her husband Richard Ryan, her step-daughter Melissa (Sean Snyder) Ryan of Wexford, her father and mother-in-law Richard and Nancy Ryan of Port Vue, her sister-in-law Patty (Chris) Kaylor of Port Vue, her aunt Beverly Gelsdorf of Youngwood, and many friends and other extended family. She was preceded in death by her parents Stephen and Sandra (Cox) Smartnick; and sisters Susanne and Sherri.
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January 30, 2025 |
By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory
Debra Lee Szucs, age 69 of White Oak, passed away at her sister's home on Wednesday, January 29, 2025. Born December 8, 1955 in McKeesport, she was a daughter of the late Earl and Wilma (Grdich) Szucs. A member of the Class of 1974 of McKeesport High School, Debra worked for both McKeesport National Bank and McKeesport Hospital. She is survived by her sister Donna (Jeff Dainty) Miladinovich of White Oak, her nephew and godson Christopher (Lauren) Miladinovich, her caregiver and friend Jenn, and many cousins, aunts, and uncles.
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January 30, 2025 |
By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory
Ann C. Pergantis, age 91 of White Oak, passed away on Wednesday, January 29, 2025 in UPMC East. Born March 23, 1933 in McKeesport, she was a daughter of the late Juraj and Bara (Canjar) Bokulic. A member of the former Sacred Heart Church in McKeesport and the Croatian Fraternal Union Lodge #3, Ann worked at the former G.C. Murphy's Warehouse in McKeesport. Besides her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, the late Nick Pergantis, who passed away December 29, 2020, and her brothers George and Joseph Bokulic. Ann is survived by her children Linda (Kenneth) Prokop and Nicholas (Katie) Pergantis.
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January 30, 2025 |
By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory
James Robert "Jimmy" Chesleigh, age 33 of West Mifflin, passed away at home on Monday, January 27, 2025. Born August 2, 1991 in Pittsburgh, he is a son of Calvert E. Chesleigh of West Mifflin and Kim Brook of Pittsburgh. An electrician and handyman, Jimmy loved animals and taking his bicycle on trails around the area. Besides his parents, he is survived by his siblings Calvert A. Chesleigh of Pittsburgh, Sarah (Eric) Campbell of Pittsburgh, John (Krista Margliotti) Chesleigh of Baldwin, and Emmet Chesleigh of McKeesport; his niece Millie Chesleigh; and also many cousins. Jimmy was also preceded in death by the love of his life Diane Cercone.
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January 27, 2025 |
By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory
Catherine A. “Kay” (Ferencic) Pazo, age 96, of Belle Vernon and formerly of Clairton, passed away on Sunday, January 26, 2025, at home. She was a member of Triumph of the Holy Cross Parish, St. Thomas A’ Becket Church, St. George Lodge #248 of the Croatian Fraternal Union, and the St. Clare Women’s Guild. Born May 18, 1928 in Coverdale, she was a daughter of the late Josip and Helen (Martinjak) Ferencic and wife of the late Edward W. “Ebbo” Pazo, Sr. She is survived by her son, Edward W. (Beth) Pazo of Jefferson Hills; two grandchildren, Alexandra Pazo of Cleveland, OH, and Edward W. Pazo, III of Jefferson Hills; brother, Joseph Ferencic, Jr. of Bethel Park; niece and caregiver, Paulette Gerbin of Belle Vernon; additional nieces, Cynthia Ferencic and Joyce Pazo; nephews, Jeffrey Ferencic, Gregory Pazo, Vincent Pazo, Jr., who was also her godson, and Mark Pazo. In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by two sisters, Mary Plevel and Helen Gerbin. Friends will be received in the Paul E. Bekavac Funeral Home, Elizabeth, on Wednesday, January 29, 2025, from 3-8 PM. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday, January 30, 2025, at 10 AM in St. Thomas A’ Becket Church, Jefferson Hills, with Rev. Phillip P. Pribonic officiating. Burial will follow at St. Clare Cemetery, Clairton. Memorial contributions can be made to the Croatian Fraternal Union Scholarship Foundation, 100 Delaney Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15235. Offer condolences at www.bekavacfuneralhome.com
January 27, 2025 |
By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory
Patricia (Chonko) Bucy, age 81 of West Elizabeth, passed away on Thursday, January 23, 2025, at Jefferson Hospital. She loved building puzzles and spending time with her grandchildren. Born in Duquesne on April 11, 1943, she was a daughter of the late Joseph and Marion (Koontz) Chonko. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Richard Carl Bucy, Sr., and four siblings, Ester, Virginia, Joellen, and Timothy. She is survived by three daughters, Patty A. (the late Larry) Vargo of Ohio, Sheila R. Martin of Jefferson Hills, Jennifer L. (Gary) Radey of Ohio; two sons, Richard C. Bucy, Jr. of West Elizabeth and Thomas A. (Ashley) Bucy of West Elizabeth; seven grandchildren, Frank Lewis, Samantha Martin, Danielle Holt, Holly Dansak, Felicia Martin, Pamela and Mark Martin; 16 great-grandchildren, Carl, Owen, Chad, Beau, Cody, Natalie, Carley, Shawn, Alaina, Damien, Ellie, Emma, Alex, Maddie, Juniper, and Elijah; three siblings, Ona (Mark) Horgas, James (Marie) Chonko, and Ruth Pisko; also nieces and nephews. A memorial gathering will be held at the Paul E. Bekavac Funeral Home, 221 North Second Avenue,Elizabeth, on Thursday, January 30, 2025, from 2-4 PM. Offer condolences at www.bekavacfuneralhome.com
