July 28, 2020 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Emma Jean Pilipovich, 94, of North Huntingdon, passed away Tuesday, July 28, 2020. She was born October 13, 1925 in Irwin, a daughter of the late Earl and Elizabeth (Bender) Gongaware. Emma Jean was a former member of the Norwin Art League, was an avid seamstress and loved to read. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, George Pilipovich; son, Jack Proctor; brothers, James and Earl "Butch" Gongaware; and sisters, Helen Humphries and Eileen Plesniak. She is survived by her son, George Pilipovich and his wife, Cindy; daughters, Penny Pilipovich and her fiance, Bob Campbell, Marcy Burgess and her husband, Jim; daughter-in-law, Linda Proctor; and two grandchildren, Pam Pilipovich and A.J. Bergman. Friends will be received from 3-7 p.m. on Thursday at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon, PA. A funeral service will take place on Friday at 11 a.m. in the funeral home chapel. Entombment to follow in Penn Lincoln Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Norwin Public Library. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
July 25, 2020 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Jill L. Mattey, 65, of North Huntingdon, passed away Saturday, July 25, 2020 surrounded by her loving family, at Excela Health Westmoreland Hospital. She was born August 24, 1954 in Mt. Pleasant, a daughter of the late George and Luella (Taylor) Opalenik. Jill was a nurse’s assistant and later retired from Westmoreland County as a switchboard operator. She was a member of Norwin Christian Church. She closely followed politics, enjoyed shopping, going out to eat with friends, and taking vacations with her family. She is survived by her son, John Mattey and his wife, Kristy; daughters, Jennifer Mattey-Limppo and her husband, Barry, Jaclyn Dogrul and her husband, Adam; brothers, Peter (Linda) Opalenik, Michael (Mary) Opalenik, George (Sandy) Opalenik; and five grandchildren, Azrael, Adam, Mason, Logan and Blake; and former husband, John “Duke” Mattey. Friends will be received on Wednesday from 3-8 p.m. at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon, PA. A funeral service will take place on Thursday at 10 a.m. in the funeral home chapel. Interment to follow in Olive Branch Cemetery, Belle Vernon, PA. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the National Kidney Foundation. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
July 23, 2020 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
James Thomas Ferranti. 78 passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 21, 2020 with his wife and daughters by his side. James was born on June 14, 1942 and resided in Quebec, Canada until he was adopted by an America Family at the age of ten. James overcame many challenges throughout life.
His American roots grew strong starting from the moment he stepped foot onto American soil. Learning the English language, becoming a US Citizen and becoming one of the most Patriotic Americans ever. His Patriotism went so deep that he chose to serve in the American Army. He served from March 1964 to July 1964 and served five years in the US Army Reserves. James lived most of his childhood years in Masontown, PA with his Guardians from the Ferranti Family.
He was a 1962 alumnus of Father Kolb Memorial High School, Masontown, PA. In 1970 after serving his Country, James met the love of his life, Gloria Jean (Molinaro) Ferranti who he married in 1971 and shared a life with for 49 years. James and Gloria have two daughters: Kimberly Jean Ferranti of North Huntington, PA and Jamie Lynn (Ferranti) Shuster and her spouse Chris Shuster of Butler, PA and four grandchildren: Samantha Shuster, Alexander Shuster, Sydney Shuster and Jordan Shuster.
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July 22, 2020 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Roberta A. (Regan) Veverka, 74, of North Huntingdon passed away at her home on Wednesday, July 22, 2020. She was born May 29, 1946, in Braddock, a daughter of the late Robert and Agnes (Suprek) Regan. Roberta attended St. James Lutheran Church, Ligonier and was a former member of The Lutheran Church of Our Saviour, North Huntingdon. She loved to bake, watching baseball and listening to music. She is survived by her husband, Ronald R. Veverka; son, Robert Veverka and his wife, Jennifer; daughter, Roni A. Johnson; and three loving grandchildren, Ryan and Claire Veverka and Dannon M. Johnson. Friends will be received from 2-4 & 6-8 p.m. on Friday at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon. A funeral service will take place at 10 a.m. on Saturday in the funeral home chapel. Interment to follow in Irwin Union Cemetery. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com.
July 22, 2020 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Carol L. Ackerman, 67, of North Huntingdon, passed away Tuesday, July 21, 2020 after a courageous battle with Ovarian Cancer. She was born October 17, 1952 in McKeesport, PA the daughter of the late Carl L. Ackerman Sr., and the late Jean Claire Magee Ackerman Rodman. In addition to her parents, Carol was preceded in death by her sisters, Merry (David) Singler and Lisa (Quinton) Ackerman-Wimbs.
Prior to her retirement, Carol was a registered nurse and worked 25 years at UPMC Braddock and the last 14 1/2 years at UPMC McKeesport as a clinician. Carol obtained her basic nursing degree at CCAC South in 1979, her Bachelor's degree in nursing from California University of Pennsylvania in 2005, and her Master's Degree in Nursing Education from Indiana University of Pennsylvania in 2007. Carol was also a Certified Medical Surgical Nurse and Certified Gerontology Nurse. Carols was the Chemo Trainer to Trainer on her unit and taught CPR. She was an advocate for the patients for preventing skin breakdown. She published an article titled "Not on my Watch-Preventing Skin Breakdown" in Med/Surg Nursing. She also published a book titled "Chemotherapy for the Medical-Surgical Nurses". Carol was also featured on the cover of Med/Surg Nursing administering chemotherapy to one of her patients. Carol received the Clinical Leadership Award from the Academy of Medical Surgical Nursing in 2011.
She was a member of Christ United Methodist Church, N. Huntingdon and loved to travel to her favorite spots, especially Disney World and taking Disney cruises. Carol was a veteran of the US Army, where she served in Alabama, Missouri and Kansas. She was the first area married woman to join the US Army in 1973 while married to the John A. Orbin. In her memory, her grandson, Lucas Ackerman will receive her flag after the 21 gun salute.
Carol was a loving and devoted mother and grandmother. She is survived by her two best friends; daughter, Dr. Bethany L. Ackerman; and grandson, Lucas G. Ackerman who were her pride and joy. She was so proud of Bethany when she obtained her Doctor of Philosophy in 2018. Lucas was her best friend and advocate while she was undergoing chemotherapy treatments and surgical procedures. He always made her laugh and was truly her “best buddy”. Both were her strongest supporters and were there when she was going through cancer treatments. She is also survived by her two beloved dogs, Skyler and Mickey.
Carol is also survived by her eleven siblings, Linda Penn, Harry (Rosalinda) Ackerman, Patricia (Thomas) Maldonado, Carl (Denise) Ackerman Jr., Allen (Emma) Ackerman, Perry (Donna) Ackerman, Irene Alvarez, Bruce Ackerman, Kathy McNelis, Glenn (Frank), and Roberta (Jon) Rodman. She is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.
Our thanks to Carol's PCP Dr. John Smith, her oncologist Dr. Sarah Taylor and the UMPC Magee Gyn/Oncology and Cancer Center for the excellent care she received. We would like to thank Dr. Grace Campbell and Teal Hearts Network (Ovarian Cancer Support Group) for the support and encouragement she received during her illness. Friends will be received from 6-8 p.m. on Thursday and 2-4 & 6-8 p.m. on Friday at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon. The funeral service is private for family members only. Interment will take place in Irwin Union Cemetery on Saturday at 11:15 a.m. In honor of Carol and her courageous battle with ovarian cancer, she has requested that attendees wear teal clothing, if possible. I have fought the good fight; I have finished the race. I have kept the faith. IITimothy 4:7 In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Bethany and Lucas Ackerman. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
July 17, 2020 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
James E. Peddicord, 65 of North Huntingdon, passed away Thursday, July 16, 2020 at his home. He was born, November 26, 1954 in Pittsburgh, son of Catherine (Artman) Peddicord and the late Louis Peddicord. Jim was a member of St. Agnes Parish and loved singing in the choir. He was an avid Pittsburgh Pirates fan and enjoyed fishing in Erie, singing karaoke, spending time with his family and especially eating sweets. In addition to his father, Jim was preceded in death by his brothers-in-law, Jack and Mike; sister-in-law, Laurie Peddicord; and nephew, Mike. He is survived by his brothers, Louie (Karen), John, Kenwood, Sam (Laurie), Mick and Steve (Rena); sisters, Linda Proctor, Debbie Constantine, Kate Hawk and JoAnn Brugnoli; aunt, Mary Pogel; Goddaughter, Pilar Swankler; and numerous nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews.
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July 11, 2020 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
James M. Minarchin, age 77, of Dauberville, Pa., formerly of White Oak, died July 10, 2020 at the Hershey Medical Center. He was born March 26, 1943 in Duquesne, Pa., a son of the late Michael and LaVerne Pilcher Minarchin. James was a member of the Glad Tidings Church, Wyomissing, Pa. Prior to his retirement he was employed as an outside machinist at Carpenter Technology and formerly employed by U.S. Steel in Duquesne. He was a veteran of the U.S. Air Force stationed in Korea. Jim enjoyed bike riding and was a devoted family man who enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren . He was an avid sports enthusiast who loved the Pittsburgh Steelers. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two brothers, Richard and Robert Minarchin. He is survived by his wife, Bonita Wiles Minarchin; three daughters, Lori Gergley (Ronald), Lisa Minarchin, Linda Werner; one sister Sharon Patrick; 7 grandchildren, Tyler, Kyle, Seth, Angelina, Madison, Riley, Ariana; 5 great-grandchildren, Jayce, Aiden, Xander, Roman and Colton. Friends will be received at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon Wednesday 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Funeral service Thursday at 10 a.m. in the funeral home chapel. Interment 2:30 p.m. at Jefferson Memorial Park. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com.
July 06, 2020 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Barbara Ann Fairbaugh, age 93 of North Huntingdon formerly of Liberty Boro died July 6, 2020, She was born May 26, 1927 in Wall, Pa , where she grew up. She was the daughter of the late Pete and Frances Yunitz Hurwatic. Throughout her life, Barbara was employed as a waitress at various restaurants including Stratigos, The Bellmont, Club Car and the White Elephant. She enjoyed knitting, crocheting, shopping and fine shoes. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband James F. Fairbaugh and 6 brothers and sisters.
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July 04, 2020 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Duane R. Brokenbek, Jr., 73, of North Huntingdon, passed away July 3, 2020 at the Veterans Hospital H.J. Heinz Campus after a hard-fought health battle that used up the last of his nine lives. His family is at peace knowing he is reunited with his wife of 40 years, the love of his life, Michelle (Weinberg) Brokenbek, who preceded him in death. Duane is the son of the late Duane R. Brokenbek Sr. and Rose Brokenbek. He is also survived by his brother James (Maryann) Brokenbek of McKeesport. He enlisted in the Air Force at age 18 and was deployed during the Vietnam War for two years. His service included the The Battle of Khe Sanh, one of the heaviest bombardments in history. After being honorably discharged at the rank of Sergeant, Duane put himself through college while working full-time and raising a family, earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology at California University of Pennsylvania and a Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Pittsburgh. He then used his education and experience working for the Department of Veterans Affairs as Team Leader for the Veterans Resource Center for over 30 years assisting thousands of veterans in group and individual counseling, as well as helping to obtain jobs, housing, health benefits and other necessities for military members. He anonymously donated many turkeys every Thanksgiving to families in need as well as countless other community charities, including St. Jude’s Children’s. Arra Hospital, Operation Smile and Disabled American Veterans. Duane lived a full life including being a bodyguard for Bob Hope, one of his heroes, during a USO Tour in Vietnam, helping Bo Diddley carry his guitars, holding Ann-Margret’s luggage when she visited Vietnam and being stuck in a revolving door with Mick Jagger, who notoriously said “excuse me” first. Beyond his brushes with celebrities, he lived a quiet life alongside his soulmate Michelle, raising rabbits he then donated to 4H groups, collecting vintage audio and listening to obscure vinyl records. He lived for spending time with his four children who became resilient hard workers, generous people, and kind hearts because of their parents; Leah Leber, Marc (Leighann) Brokenbek, Seth (Jill) Brokenbek, and Shana (Marc) Tokarski. He took great joy any time he could be near his grandchildren, who he adored and could do no wrong in his eyes. His grandchildren fan club include Jaxton Leber, Isaac and Cianna Brokenbek, Jane Brokenbek, and Brooks, Eli and Sadie Tokarski. Duane asked that any contributions on his behalf be made to Paralyzed Veterans of America, or to treat a friend to a meal and conversation. Visitation will be held Tuesday from 11 AM to 12:30 PM at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, Clay Pike, North Huntingdon. Interment will be held at the Temple B'nai Israel Cemetery at Elrod, Center Street in Versailles on Tuesday at 1 PM.
June 29, 2020 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Joan M. Hudson, 86, of North Huntingdon, passed away Friday, June 26, 2020. She was born November 14, 1933 in Brooklyn, NY, the daughter of the late Joseph and Esther Josephine (Rieke) Scully. Prior to her retirement, Joan was a call center supervisor for Allegheny Answering Service. She was a board member of N. Huntingdon Education Service Agency and was in charge of the crossing guards for the Norwin School District and enjoyed cross-stitching. She is survived by her children, Debi (Nicholas) Hotujec, Scott (Beverly) Hudson, Richard (Joyce Vaughn) Hudson; grandchildren, Christine (Don) Schnarrenberger, Nicholas (Jessica) Hotujec, Jeremy Hudson, Kristina Jo Hudson; great-grandchildren, Rori, Phoenix, Griffin, and Brealyn. Friends will be received from 2-8 p.m. on Tuesday at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon, PA. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Wounded Warriors. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
June 27, 2020 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Ethel M. Yanowitch, 96, of North Braddock, passed away Saturday, June 27, 2020 at Westmoreland Manor. She was born July 27, 1923 in Brentwood, a daughter of the late Melvin and Sophie Klink. She was a member of St. William Catholic Church, East Pittsburgh where she served on the Altar Society and loved to sing in the choir. She belonged to the Ladies Auxiliary for North Braddock Fire Department, 1st Ward, and loved to dress up for the ladies auxiliary and the children's Halloween and Christmas parties. She loved visiting the Atlantic City casinos with the ladies bus tours. She loved writing poems and songs and loved going for long rides in the country. She enjoyed baking and cooking for her family, but most of all her passion was singing.
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June 26, 2020 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Ted Daniel Drahusz, 50, of Rock Hill, SC went home to our Lord on June 22, 2020. Ted was born on June 4, 1970, in McKeesport, PA to Linda and George Drahusz, Jr. Ted spent his formative years in North Huntingdon, PA attending St. Agnes grade school. As a youth, Ted cultivated a love for the outdoors and was heavily involved in the Boys Scouts, Troop 293, attaining the rank of Star Scout. Some of his fondest childhood memories were in the scouts at Cubby's cabin in the fall, and Camp Conestoga in the summers. He closed out his formative years graduating from Norwin Senior High in 1989.Ted proudly served a total of 15 years in the military. He was part of the 28th Infantry Division in the PA Army National Guard for many years before transferring to the NY Army National Guard and later onto the Army National Guard in Hickory, North Carolina. After 9/11, Ted and his division were sent to guard parts of New York City and Long Island. He ended his military career as a sergeant. During this time, Ted spent close to 20 years working for Sherwin Williams at various positions and locations. Looking for a change, Ted relocated to the South to study medical imaging equipment technology at ECPI College of Technology in Charlotte, NC. He was a Test Technician at International Medical Equipment and Service. Through all this, Ted was a devoted father who enjoyed time outdoors hiking and fishing with his children. Ted’s passion for life was evident. Ted earned a second-degree black belt in Seidokan, Okinawan martial arts. Additionally, he spent time hiking, fishing, reading, and most recently joined an ax-throwing club. Ted is survived by his two sons Brandon and George who were his pride and joy, as well as his stepdaughter Adriana Restrepo, and his stepson Jason Restrepo. In addition, he is survived by his mother Linda (Tyson) Drahusz and George Drahusz, Jr. Ted also leaves behind three brothers, George R. Drahusz (Michelle Drahusz) of Delaware, Daniel V. Drahusz (Stacey Drahusz) of Massachusetts, and Joseph J. Drahusz (Shelley Drahusz) of Pennsylvania, as well as many nieces and nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins. Ted is also survived by the mother of his children and friend, Martha Roa. Also, Ted recently found new love and leaves behind his girlfriend, Nubia Ana Guzman. Ted will be remembered for his dedication to his children, his good-natured and easy-going spirit, great sense of humor and laugh, and his patience. He was the type of person that would do anything for you and that's what he did all of his days that we were blessed to have him.
Family and friends will be received from 2 to 4 & 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursday at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon, PA. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Friday at 10 a.m. in St. Agnes Church. Interment will be private. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
June 25, 2020 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Joan Gongaware, 93, of North Huntingdon, passed away Thursday, June 25, 2020 at her home. She was born May 26, 1927 in North Irwin, a daughter of the late William and Laura (Peters) Lauffer. Joan was a member of Circleville United Methodist Church. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Earl R. "Butch" Gongaware; brothers, Donald Lauffer and Steven Lauffer and a grandaughter, Shana.
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June 24, 2020 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Donna Ann Spahr, 72, of North Huntingdon, passed away Tuesday, June 23, 2020 at Westmoreland Manor. She was born May 18, 1948 in Warren, PA, a daughter of the late Shirley "Ike" and Anna (Rushby) Dunkle. Prior to her retirement, Donna was a registered nurse for the former Monsour Hospital and McKeesport Hospital. She was a graduate of Ohio Valley General Nurses Training, McKees Rocks, member of St. Agnes Parish and was an avid reader. She was preceded in death by her husband, Thomas Spahr. She is survived by her daughter, Maryah A. Spahr; sister, Sue Dunkle and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. Friends will be received from 2 to 4 p.m. on Friday at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon, PA. A blessing service will follow at 4 p.m. in the funeral home. Interment will be private in the National Cemetery of the Alleghenies. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Association. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
June 24, 2020 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Elizabeth C. Gavin, 76, of North Huntingdon, passed away Monday, June 22, 2020 at The Palms Assisted Living, McKeesport. She was born July 2, 1943 in Pittsburgh, a daughter of the late Melvin and Ruth (Hemsky) Clear. Prior to her retirement, Elizabeth was a nurse's assistant for UPMC Shadyside Hospital and was a member of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church. She was active in the Cub Scouts at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Pittsburgh and enjoyed walking with her Penns Woods friends, cooking and baking, and loved spending time with her grandchildren. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her daughter, Ruth DeRosa; brother, Michael Clear; and sister Lorraine Diskin. She is survived by her loving husband of 59 years, John J. Gavin Sr.; sons, William Gavin and his wife, Debbie, John J. Gavin Jr. and his wife, Eileen; daughter, Elaine Charlesworth and her husband, Bill; grandchildren, Zachary, Tyler (Dana), Samantha, Sean (Alyson), Laurel, Dominic, Ashley, Justin (Capri), Joshua (Stacie), Jacob, Abby; and eight great-grandchildren. Friends will be received from 4 to 8 p.m. on Thursday at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon, PA. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Friday at 9:30 a.m. in St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church. Interment to follow in Calvary Cemetery, Pittsburgh. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
