February 15, 2025 |
By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory
Patricia L. (O'Hara) Fletcher, age 77 of Jefferson Hills, passed away at home on Thursday, February 13, 2025. Born November 18, 1947 in Pittsburgh, she was a daughter of the late William and Joanne (Cartwright) O'Hara. After attending the St. Joseph's School of Nursing and receiving her B.S.N. from California University of PA, Patricia worked as an registered nurse for UPMC Home Health. She was also a member of Triumph of the Holy Cross Parish. Patricia is survived by her children Lisa (Scott) Getsy of Pleasant Hills, Chuck Richnafsky of Jefferson Hills, Brandon Richnafsky of Jefferson Hills, and Shannan (Curtis) Saffer of Pleasant Hills; her grandchildren Breanna Paulson, Dylan Saffer, and Adara and A.J. Getsy; and her two great-grandchildren.
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February 14, 2025 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Sharyn Leaha Chervon, 72 of Port Vue died February 14, 2025, at Monroeville Post Acute Care. She was born January 27, 1953, in McKeesport, a daughter of the late Ray and Ruth Singleton Casey. Sharyn was a former member of St. Eugene Church, Saints Joachim and Anne Parish in Liberty Borough. She enjoyed shopping, dancing and music. She was a graduate of East Allegheny High School Class of 1970. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband Ronald in 2014, three brothers, Jimbo, Raymond and John Casey, and a sister Darlene. She is survived by three sons, Ronald (Christy), Brian (Sandra), and Todd Chervon, one brother Edward Casey, two sisters, Kimberly Gatto (Blaise), Debra Kasony, grandchildren, Ashley (Matt Albensi), Jasmine, Laila, Alexander and Abigail, one great grandchild, Maverick Albensi. Friends will be received at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon on Monday from 2-4, 6-8 p.m. A blessing service will be held on Tuesday at 1:00 p.m. in the funeral home chapel followed by interment at Jefferson Memorial Park. Memorial contributions may be made to Shriners Hospital for Children. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com.
February 14, 2025 |
By Maloy-Schleifer Funeral Home | Posted in: Maloy-Schleifer Funeral Home
John E. “Jack” Lees Jr., age 83, of Duquesne, passed away on Thursday, February 13, 2025, in UPMC Presbyterian. Born in McKeesport on August 25, 1941, he was the son of the late John and Sylvia (White) Lees Sr. He was retired from U.S. Steel-Irvin Works, was Presbyterian by faith and loved to do crossword puzzles. He proudly served his country in the Army.
Jack was the husband of the late Pamela (Brevko) Lees; father of Heather Lees, at home, John (Shannon) Lees of Spencer, Ohio and Jaclyn (Clint) Jones of West Newton; grandfather of Gunner Lees, Dallas Lees, Summer Lees, Jordan Lees, Taylor Winterhalter, Hunter Jones and Brooke Jones; great grandfather of Ivy and Zeke; and brother of the late Sondra (late Pat) Kennedy and late Carol Dachille. He is also survived by his dog, Teddi.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, from 2-7 p.m. at the MALOY-SCHLEIFER FUNERAL HOME, INC., 915 KENNEDY AVE, DUQUESNE, 15110, 412-466-3300, WILLIAM B. SCHLEIFER, SUPERVISOR, WILLIAM BRIAN SCHLEIFER, FUNERAL DIRECTOR, where a Funeral Service will be held at 6:30 p.m., followed by presentation of Military Honors.
February 14, 2025 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Lois M. Puglia, age 98 of McKeesport died February 14, 2025, at Golden Heights Personal Care Home in Irwin. She was born August 9, 1926, in Pottsville PA, a daughter of the late Irvin and Priscilla Gauntlet Horn. She was a member of Mary, Mother of God Parish in White Oak where she was a devoted Christian Mother. Lois loved her family, taking care of her husband and trips to their camp in Cameron County. Lois always gave the best hugs. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband Charles Puglia in 2017 and brother William Horn. She is survived by her son Joseph Puglia (Beverly), two daughters Judy Riley (Robert) and Carol Lieberum (Mark), 9 grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren. Friends will be received on Monday from 3-8 p.m. at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Tuesday at 10 a.m. at the Mary, Mother of God Parish - Corpus Christi Church with interment to follow at Penn Lincoln Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to a veteran charity of your choice. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
February 13, 2025 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Charles E. Kinner, 90, of Elizabeth Township, departed this earth on February 12, 2025 after a brief illness to be united with his 3 sons in heaven. Charles was born Jan. 6, 1935 in Duquesne and was the son of the late John Andrew and Mary (Varga) Kinner of West Mifflin. He leaves behind his devoted wife, partner and soul mate of over 70 years, Dorothy A. (Vovolka) Kinner. Charles was retired from US National Tube Works in McKeesport where he worked as a crane man and was a member of St. Michael Roman Catholic Church of Elizabeth Township.
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February 13, 2025 |
By Jaycox-Jaworski Funeral Home - Crematory | Posted in: Jaycox-Jaworski Funeral Home & Crematory
Kindhearted Mathilda J. Bendl Benson, age 105, of White Oak, died at home on February 11, 2025, under the care of Heartland Hospice. She was born at home on December 27, 1919, in Latrobe, PA, the daughter of Joseph and Philomena Bendl of Latrobe, PA. Beloved wife of the late Ralph A. Benson; mother of Ralph A. Benson Jr. (Jane) of Bethel, OH, Lewis B. Benson (Linda) of Sewickley, Joseph G. Benson (Martha) of Murrysville, and John F. Benson of White Oak. Grandchildren include Anne Louise Benson of East Rochester, John Robert Benson (Shannon) of Portland, Oregon, Joshua Arnott Benson of Austin, Texas, Joseph William Benson of Murrysville, and Emily Benson Reis (Patrick) of Howell, Michigan; great-grandchildren include Vincent Benson, Joseph Patrick Reis, Julie Therese Reis, Gemma Marie Reis, Gianna Faustina Reis, Bella Lucia Reis, and Michael Paul Reis. She also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband of 73 years, Ralph A. Benson; her brothers, Joseph, Anthony, Richard, and Lewis, who was a WWII casualty who served in the United States Navy; her sisters, Marie Monaco, Regina Bendl, Rose Umansky, Catherine Sweeney, and Ruth Myers.
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February 13, 2025 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Brandon Michael Schmeltz, age 44 of Herminie passed away February 12, 2025, at Allegheny General Hospital. He was born January 2, 1981, son of the late Art Schmeltz and Karen and Pat Mohan. Brandon was a loving husband, father, son, brother and grandfather. He was an exceptional man who loved life to the fullest and was always the life of the party, dancing, laughing, causing havoc and always out to have a good time. He loved his family, friends and most of all his grandchildren. He was proud of the plaster business he had built for himself and was a great provider for his family always going above and beyond. Brandon was a die-hard Pittsburgh Steelers fan and loved all Pittsburgh sports. He enjoyed watching Yough High School sports and supporting the kids. He was a baseball coach for Sewickley Recreational Baseball for 9 years. He enjoyed coaching and bonding with the kids. He enjoyed spending time with his dog Clair who he loved very much, "Thats my B...". The memories we have created will last a lifetime. You will always be in our hearts; may you protect and watch over us all until we meet again. We love you and will always love you. In addition to his father, he was preceded in death by his sister Valgene and brother John Schmeltz. He is survived by his wife of 19 years Delaine Oblak Schmeltz, son Hunter Schmeltz, daughter Haley Morris (Braden), grandson Braden Zvara, granddaughter Lilyan, brothers, Brian Schmeltz, Pat Mohan Jr., Mike Mohan, Dee Schmeltz and numerous nieces and nephews. Friends will be received on Saturday from 3-8 PM at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Yough High School Athletic Department. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
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 Jaycox-Jaworski Funeral Home - Crematory | Posted in: Jaycox-Jaworski Funeral Home & Crematory
Martha J. Vesonder, age 90, of White Oak, was unexpectedly called home to our Lord and Savior on February 9, 2025. She was predeceased by her parents, Marion (Sokol) and Floyd G. Okeson, and her husband of 17 years, Regis F. Vesonder. She is survived by her sister, LaVerne Roidt of North Versailles; daughters Paula Greenwald of White Oak and Laura (Chris) Karpinsky; her beloved grandchildren, Stephen and Michelle Karpinsky of North Versailles; nieces and nephew, Marie Ruby of McKeesport, Sarah Boyd, Ruth Towns and Saul Vesonder all of Peoria, Illinois. She is also survived by many cousins in the Sokol and Vesonder families. She remained in close phone contact with Sue Ellen Lind, Claudia Misage, and Joy Kushnir and met with Tim Vesonder upon occasion over a plate of Tillie's spaghetti. She was fond of her cousin Roseanne Kinzler, her good friend Richard Andracki, and his (late) mother Flo.
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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 Willig Funeral Home | Posted in: Willig Funeral Home & Crematory
With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Aryana Beth Walton, a bright and beautiful soul who graced this world on November 18, 2006, at Cherry Point Marine Corps Base in Havelock, North Carolina. Aryana left us too soon on February 8, 2025, in White Oak, PA, at the tender age of 18. Aryana was a cherished daughter, sister, cousin, niece, granddaughter, and friend whose warmth and kindness touched everyone she met. She is survived by her loving father, JJ Walton, her devoted sister, Angelina Walton, and her caring brother, Frank Johnson. She is also survived by grandparents, many aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family, and friends. Her family and friends will forever hold her in their hearts, remembering her infectious laughter and generous spirit.
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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 11, 2025 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
In each of our lives there comes a time when the earthly body can no longer hold the spirit within. It is with deep sorrow and hopeful joy that the family of Susan Claire "Sue" (Robertson) Cahill announces her passing on February 8, 2025, after an illness. All remembrances of her life will be done privately, pursuant to her wishes. Donations to the Cornerstone Ministries Food Bank in Murrysville, where she worked, would be greatly appreciated (lifewithcornerstone.com).
Born on April 18, 1952, Sue was preceded in death by her father, John Wesley "Jack" Robertson Jr., her mother Claire Oliva (Harding) Robertson, and her younger brother John Wesley "Johnny" Robertson III. Sue is survived by her husband of 50 years Thomas P. Cahill, her sisters Sandy Goodwin (husband Howard) and Sally Stewart (husband Russ), and her brother Michael Robertson (wife Maggie). She leaves four children; daughter Shannon Gilman (husband Donn) with grandson Jeremy (wife Jessica) having great-grandchildren Saylor, Sutton, and Eastyn, and granddaughter Sydney; daughter Anna-Marie Brown (husband Jeff) with granddaughter Geneva; son Tony Cahill (wife Tracy) with grandson Bob (wife Sharita) having great-grandchildren Keira and Carissa, and grandson Anthony.
(wife Alexis); and son Sean Cahill (wife Chrissie) with granddaughters Haley and Katie. Sue possessed a unique blend of wonderful qualities that made her such a special person. She had the wisdom to know what's what and the fortitude to tell you so. She also had the humbleness and humility of someone who experienced the trials and tribulations of life, with empathy and compassion for those going through their own struggles. Sue's great joys in life were her family, her dogs and cat, her gardens, and community work with her church. Our sadness comes from the physical loss, and Sue will be dearly missed. Our joy comes in the knowledge that her spirit is free, her burdens are now laid down, and her pain is gone. It is our hope that all who knew her are inspired by the grace, dignity, and honor she showed while here with us.
