July 26, 2024 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Yvonne (Vonnie) Rae Smeltz Lehnhardt, 76, of Turtle Creek, Pennsylvania, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, July 22, 2024. She was born on April 9, 1948. She graduated from Turtle Creek High School in 1966, and also graduated from Franco's Beauty Academy shortly after. Vonnie was formerly employed by Westinghouse Research Labs before spending 9 years of her life serving other people and/or families through the Blackburn Center in Greensburg, PA. After her retirement, she proceeded to donate her time to Westmoreland Hospice because she believed that nobody should die alone. She was a member of Immanual Lutheran Church for over 40 years, Harrold Zion Lutheran Church in Greensburg, PA, as well as Abiding Love Lutheran Church in Cape Coral, Florida. Vonnie always knew how to light up a room when she walked in and made everyone feel welcomed. She always had the best stories to tell and could make anyone laugh. At the young age of 13, she met the love of her life, Jack Lehnhardt, whom she was married to for 56 years. They shared a beautiful life in Pennsylvania before moving to Florida. Vonnie is survived by her beloved husband, Jack, sons John (Jaime) Lehnhardt, and Ken (Chasity) Lehnhardt, daughter Krista (Butch) Matijevic, sister Diane Galante (Jim Van Kuiken), 5 grandchildren, Isabella, Sydney, A.J., Alex, and Shane, 2 great-grandchildren, Paisley and Tatum, and one nephew and godson, one niece and sister in law Pat Lehnhardt. Friends and family will be received at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, located at 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon PA, on Sunday from 2 PM to 4 PM and 6 PM to 8 PM. Final viewing will take place in the funeral home on Monday at 10 AM with a service following at 11 AM at Harrold Zion Lutheran Church. Interment will follow at Harrold Zion Lutheran Church Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Blackburn Center in Greensburg. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
July 26, 2024 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
R. Janette Woomer Haldeman, age 99 of North Huntingdon, passed away on July 22, 2024, at her home. She was born on October 21, 1924, a daughter of the late Alex J. Levay and Rose E. Wenglarz Levay. Prior to her retirement, Janette was employed as a bookkeeper. She was a member of Edgewood Country Club, and she loved to golf. Janette was an amazing teacher of water skiing, car driving, and ice skating. She also hosted both Brownie and Cub Scout Troops. In addition to her parents, Janette was preceded in death by her first husband, James E. Woomer, her second husband, John H. Haldeman, and her sister Eleanor. She is survived by her son, Jerry Woomer (Delia), and daughter Colleene Woomer. In accordance with Janette's wishes, there will be no public visitation. James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon PA in charge of arrangements. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
July 22, 2024 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Patricia Burns, age 80 formerly of Bethel Park, passed away on July 16, 2024. She was born on February 19, 1944 in Glassport, a daughter of the late Henry Wible and Anna Demchak Wible. Patty had an effortless generosity and compassion that was evident to everyone she encountered. She was a 1962 graduate of Glassport High School and worked at a variety of local institutions such as Westinghouse and the Chessie System before becoming a reservationist at US Airways, from which she retired. She was an exceptional cook, an avid gardener, and a lover of crossword puzzles and word games. Throughout her life Patty was a devoted caregiver to many and a bringer of joy to all.
She was predeceased by her husband of 58 years, Pete Burns, by five months. Patty is survived by her son Bryan (Amy), granddaughters Madeline and Katherine, three of her ten siblings: Carol Dranko, Kathy Kiggins, and Regina Thorne, and dozens of beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and in-laws.
In lieu of flowers or donations please hug someone you love, forgive someone with whom you are quarreling, and prepare a lovely feast for a gathering of family and friends. That’s what Patty would do. A Celebration of Life will take place in the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon PA on Friday, July 26 at 12 Noon, with a reception following immediately at Twin Oaks Restaurant in White Oak. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
July 18, 2024 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Frank W. Eichelberger, age 86, of North Huntingdon went home to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on July 18, 2024, at his home surrounded by his family. He was born March 9, 1938 in Larimer PA, son of the late William and Marie Kramer Eichelberger. Frank graduated in the Class of 1956 from North Huntingdon High School where he was Vice President and awarded most valuable football player in 1955, chosen by coaches and players. He was the founder of Eichelberger & Sons Heating and Air Conditioning in North Huntingdon and was a member of Calvin Presbyterian Church. Frank was the youngest of 10 children. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his great-grandson Judah, brothers, William, Charles, Elmer, David, Walter, Jack, and sisters Betty McCormick and Ruth Matovich. Frank is survived by his wife of 64 years and high School sweetheart Janice Flude Eichelberger, two sons, Stephen Eichelberger (Laureen) and Paul Eichelberger (Dawn), 14 grandchildren Kara (Derrick), Ellen (Jonathan), Amy (Nathan), Emma (Luis), Stephen Jr. (Kennedy), Ruby, Zebulun (Emilie), Lydia, Malachi, Nathanael, Eliab, Isaiah, Abigail, and Rebekah, nine great-grandchildren Braelynn, Alethea, Leander, Leah, Layla, Esther, Mathias, Leon, Zoe, sister Nellie Hoskins (Laymon), brother-in-law Richard Flude and many nieces and nephews. Visitation will be private. A memorial service will take place on August 4, 2024 at 2 PM in Calvin Presbyterian Church, 260 Maus Drive, North Huntingdon. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Frank's name to Calvin Presbyterian Church. James W. Shirley Funeral Home in charge of arrangements, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon PA. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
July 15, 2024 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Robert M. Barnett, age 91 of North Huntingdon, passed away on July 14, 2024, at his home. He was born on November 29, 1932 in Pittsburgh, a son of the late Michael Barnyak and Anna Fedor. Robert was a veteran of the United States Air Force having served during the Korean War. He earned a Bachelor's and Master's Degree in Computer Science at the University of Pittsburgh, and a Bachelor's Degree in Electronic Engineering at Carnegie Mellon University. Prior to his retirement, Robert was employed as an Engineer at Allegheny Energy, and also as an Instructor of Engineering and Computer Science at Penn State and Westmoreland Community College. He was a member of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church and the local Toastmasters Club. Robert was a volunteer for the Norwin Meals on Wheels, and in his free time he loved to go on bike rides, play golf, and exercise with the Silver Sneakers program. In addition to his parents, Robert was preceded in death by his brother Barry Barnett and sister Eleanor Shaw. He is survived by his beloved wife, Marion Barnett, son Timothy Barnett, daughter Jeanine Barnett, two brothers William Barnett (Irene) and Earl Barnyak, sister-in-law Florence, and two grandchildren, Julia and Simone. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church on July 26 at 10 AM. James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon PA in charge of arrangements. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
July 13, 2024 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Margaret “Margie” S. Kraus, age 83, of North Huntingdon, left this world with her final punchline on Saturday, July 13, 2024. Margaret, known for her quick wit and infectious laughter, was born in McKeesport on September 24, 1940, and was the daughter of the late Walter P. and Rose Marie (Mulligan) Snyder. She is now reunited with her loving husband of 58 years, William W. Kraus. Additionally, she was preceded in death by her sister Mary Bernadette Comunale. Margaret is survived by her children Emily Reich, Elizabeth Schehr, Rose Kraus, Larry Kraus (Jennifer), and Kate Berger (John), who will continue her legacy of humor and kindness. Margaret's adoring grandchildren Alexandra and Madeline Reich, Madison and Michael Schehr, Taylor, Austin and Dylan Kraus, Jessica, Joseph, and Kendall Berger will cherish the memories of her playful antics and unwavering love. She is also survived by her brother Walter D. Snyder and numerous nieces and nephews.
After raising 5 children, Margaret fearlessly pursued higher education, earning an associate's degree in Medical Transcription. She was always there for her children, whether it was helping them with school projects or making sure they had a warm breakfast before 6 AM swim practice. Margaret's zest for life was amplified by her love for music - our house could be heard rocking to John Denver, Barry Manilow, The Beach Boys Christmas, Neil Diamond, or Marlo Thomas’s Free To Be You and Me on repeat. She made each of her children feel like she was their biggest fan, supporting them in her own unique way. Margaret also touched the lives of her grandchildren, maintained lifelong friendships, and was known for her perfect gravy at Thanksgiving. Her selflessness and love knew no bounds, and she spread joy wherever she went.
We also want to express our gratitude to Margaret's caregivers, Virginia and the Berger family, for their unwavering support and care for Margaret. We are also incredibly grateful for the outpouring of support from the people who have been there for the Berger family during this time. Their kindness and concern have made a meaningful difference.
Today, as we remember Margaret, let's honor her by sharing a good laugh and embracing the joy she brought into our lives. As her lifelong friend Darlene said upon hearing of her death, “Don’t cry, laugh.” Her contagious laughter will echo in our hearts forever. Cheers to Margaret, the ultimate comedian and champion of love. To Billy, Honey I'm Home."
Friends will be received at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon PA, on Monday from 5 PM to 7 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place in St. Agnes Church on Tuesday at 10 AM, followed by interment at St. Joseph Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be given in Margaret's name to the Alzheimer's Association of Greater PA, Pittsburgh Office (ALZ.org). www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
July 12, 2024 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Patricia A. May, age 92 of North Huntingdon, passed away on July 11, 2024 at her home. She was born in Pittsburgh on May 10, 1932, a daughter of the late Kenneth McCuean and Grace Blazer McCuean. Prior to her retirement, Patricia was employed as an office manager at K-Mart. In her free time, she loved to cook, bake, and work on crafts. In addition to her parents, Patricia was preceded in death by her beloved husband Charles in 2018. She is survived by her two sons, Charles May (Anita) and Keith May, two daughters, Cathy May and Karen Grus (Kevin), one brother, Kenneth McCuean, two sisters, Frances Greco (James) and Linda Law, grandchildren Charles, Jill, Kim, Scott, Brandon, Jenna, Brian, Kaylan, and Kirstin, and many great-grandchildren. Friends will be received at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon PA, on Sunday from 2-4 PM and 6-8 PM. Final Visitation will take place in the funeral home on Monday at 9:30 AM with interment to follow in Penn Lincoln Cemetery. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
July 11, 2024 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Donna Faye Maglicco, 72 of North Huntingdon died on July 10, 2024 at her home. She was born on October 26, 1951 in Mckeesport, a daughter of the late Charles and Flo Lowery Roler. Prior to her retirement, Donna was employed by Maracini's in the meat department. She later enjoyed babysitting for various families. Donna enjoyed volleyball, gardening, her pets and spending time with her children and grandchildren. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her son, Bruce Jr. in 2015. She is survived by her beloved husband, Bruce, her daughter Marcie Tanner (Tony), a sister, Cheryl Timko (Ronald), one grandchild, Jennifer, and four great grandchildren, Kaylee, Lydin, Madelyn, Rose. Visitation and services will be private. Entombment will take place in St. Joseph Cemetery, North Versailles. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com.
July 07, 2024 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Richard A. Gasparro, age 60 of West Newton died July 6, 2024 at his home. He was born February 20, 1964 in Pittsburgh, a son of the late Richard and Michelle Horning Gasparro. Richard was a graduate of Penn Trafford High School. He was a life long mechanic and employed by Yough School District as a bus driver. He enjoyed working on cars, spending time with his family and grandchildrren, drag racing and working on his son's hot rod Chevy with him. He is survived by his beloved wife, Karen Mazak Gasparro, three sons, Chad Gasparro (Lexi), Jesse Gasparro and Joshua Gasparro (Tessa), 4 grandchildren, Ryder, Jett, Jagger, and Roxzen. Friends will be received at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon on Tuesday from 2-4, 6-8 p.m. A funeral service will be held Wednesday at 10 a.m. in the funeral home chapel followed by interment in Irwin Union Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Pancreatic Cancer Foundation in memory of Richard. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com.
July 06, 2024 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Louis E. Berta, 91, of North Huntingdon died July 5, 2024 at Forbes Hospital. He was born January 4, 1933 in West Mifflin, a son of the late Louis Sr. and Edna Young Berta. He was a long time member of the First United Methodist Church of Irwin and was a U.S. Army veteran having served in the Korean War. Louis was a proud Eagle Scout and Boy Scout leader, having started Troop 250 in Penns Woods and was the scout leader for over 20 years. He loved his yearly family vacations at the Outer Banks, enjoyed hunting, fishing, golfing, and playing in a dartball league, and was an avid Pittsburgh sports fan. Prior to his retirement, was employed by U.S. Steel Research. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by sister Barbara Reaney and brother in law Richard Lobaugh. He is survived by the love of his life and wife of 68 years, Jerry; daughters, Lori Wachter (David), Pamela Soboslay (David), and Melissa Cashdollar (Robert); grandchildren, Drs. Sadie Ackerman (Jordan), Nathan Wachter (Allyn), Zachary Hornak (Tiffany), Tyler Thomas (Angel), and Tessa Thomas; great grandchildren, Izzy, Josie, Emma, Levi, Ethan, Asher, and C.J.; brothers in law, James Reaney and Thomas Lobaugh, and nephew Ralph Friend (Kelly). Visitation will be Tuesday, July 16, 10 AM – 12 PM, followed by a service at 12 Noon in the funeral home chapel at James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Tunnels to Towers Foundation. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com.
July 05, 2024 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Mary D. Golden, age 76 of Irwin died July 5, 2024 at Independence Westmoreland Hospital. She was born March 4,1948 in Cucumber West Virginia, a daughter of the late Sterling and Ruth Saviski Wallace. Mary enjoyed making floral arrangements, bird watching, jigsaw puzzles and crocheting. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a sister, Janet Pruitt. She is survived by two daughters, Theressa Freeburn and Nicole Petor (John), two brothers, Sterling and Stephen Wallace, a sister, Dolores Legion, 4 grandchildren, Christine, Alexa, Lilyan and Logan, and her high school friend Vince Wise. The family wishes to extend a thank you for the staff at Hempfield Manor for all their care and compassion shown to Mary during her stay with them. There will be no public visitation. Services will be private. James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon in charge of arrangements. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com.
July 05, 2024 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Barbara J. Petro, 81 of North Huntingdon passed peacefully away at home on Thursday July 4, 2024. She was the daughter of the late James and Harriet Wright Roycroft. Barbara was a member of Circleville U.M. Church where she taught Sunday school and was the leader along with her husband, George of the youth group for many years. Barbara was also a girl scout leader for her daughters troops. She also volunteered for the Westmoreland County Food Bank. She is survived by her husband, George of 62 years, her daughters, Deborah Altman (Kirk), Sandra Gillon (Frank), and Susan Vargo (Ray), eight grandchildren, Crystal Smith (Greg), Andrew Hayden (Erica), KJ Altman (Darcy), Kevin Altman, Jonathan Vargo (Angela), Emily Vargo, Nathan Gillon, Jessica Philabauem (Jake), and ten great grandchildren. Visitation will be Monday 2-8 PM at James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike. A service will be held Tuesday 10 AM in the funeral home chapel. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Barb’s favorite animal shelter, White Oak Animal Safe Haven, 2295 Lincoln Way, White Oak, PA 15131. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com.
July 04, 2024 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Phyllis Lorraine Sprague (nee Campbell), age 94 of North Huntingdon, formerly of Penn Hills, passed away on July 3, 2024 at her home. She was born on April 19, 1930 in Pittsburgh, a daughter of the late Clyde and Ada Taylor Campbell. Phyllis was preceded in death by her husband George Sprague, son Mark Sprague; sons-in-law, Cloyd Anderson and Randy Wippich; sisters, Peg Harris, Jean MacNeil, Grace Singler, her brothers, James and Charles Campbell, and her lifelong friend Phyllis McCue. Phyllis is survived by her loving children, Joyce Anderson, Marilyn (Chuck) McCoy, Carrie Wippich, and Scott (Michelle) Sprague. She was a cherished grandmother to Shawn and Brian Anderson, Dawn Fidler, Carly and James McCoy, and Cameron Sprague, and a great-grandmother to Eric, Keegan, and Hailey Anderson, Travis and Gage Anderson, and Ruby McCoy. She also leaves behind several nieces and nephews. Known for her beautiful, kind, and caring nature, Phyllis had a strong spirit and was immensely talented. Her presence brought light and warmth to those around her, and she will be deeply missed by family, friends, and all who knew her. A Celebration of Life for Phyllis will be determined and announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be given to the American Diabetes Association, or a charity of your choice in memory of Phyllis Sprague. James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon PA in charge of arrangements. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
June 30, 2024 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Lois Jean Peters, 86, passed away peacefully in her home on June 29, 2024. Lois was born on April 14, 1938, in Pittsburgh, PA, to Richard and Elizabeth Beswick. Lois graduated Greensburg High School in 1956 and worked at Gimbels Department Store. Lois was a charter member of Christ United Methodist Church of North Huntingdon. She graced everyone she met with her charming and optimistic personality. Lois loved traveling to Sea Club V in Florida, cooking, shopping, and baking with her granddaughters. Lois’s greatest joys in life were her husband, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Lois is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Ronald Peters, her brother George Beswick, and sister Elizabeth "Pinky" Baker. She is survived by her 4 children, Wendy (Keith) Staso, Lisa (Robert) Scheideman, Jeffrey (Patricia) Peters, and Holly (Joseph) Coghill; 10 grandchildren, Tara and Leah Kristopaitis, Jonathan and Amanda Staso, Rebecca, Ethan, and Evan Peters, Courtney and McKenzie Coghill, and Kendra Scheideman; and 5 great-grandchildren, Roman, Monroe, Nadea, Charlotte, and Bennett. SHE WAS LOVED. Donations in kind may be given to Christ United Methodist Church of North Huntingdon, 2880 Coulterville Road, McKeesport, PA 15131. The family of Lois Peters would like to extend our sincerest gratitude to everyone who made Lois’s life so full, cared for her, and showed her the love she so freely gave to others. She will be missed greatly by her family and friends. Friends will be received at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon on Tuesday from 2-7 P.M. Services and interment will be private . In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Christ United Methodist Church, 2800 Coulterville Road, McKeesport, Pa 15131. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com.
June 28, 2024 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Marlane M. Markiewicz, age 75 of Larimer, passed away on June 28, 2024. She was born on February 16, 1949 in Greenfield, the daughter of the late Buzz McWhirter and Betty Callahan McWhirter. Marlane was a member of Immaculate Conception Church in Irwin. Marlane cherished her role as a homemaker, and she always looked forward to shopping and spending time with her friends. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her daughter Tina Chergi, and her brother Jimmy McWhirter. Marlane is survived by her beloved husband, William Markiewicz, brother Buzz McWhirter (Susan), nephews Buzzy McWhirter (Sasha) and Rob McWhirter (Camille), brother and sister in-law Dan and Beth Markiewicz, numerous family and friends, and her canine companion, Rusty. Friends will be received at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon PA, at a date and time to be announced. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be given in Marlane's honor to St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital and the Wounded Warrior Project. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
