A free service provided by your local funeral professionals and The Tube City Almanac, your independent, non-profit news source.

McKeesport Area News from Tube City Almanac


Advertising

Finney Funeral Home CREMATION Simple Direct Dignified  1-800-448-9899

This service is supported by donations and advertising. To advertise here, call (412) 614-9659 or email McKeesportObituaries@gmail.com.


Valerie Skovranko

November 17, 2021 |

By William S. Skovranko Memorial Home | Posted in: William S. Skovranko Memorial Home

Valerie M. (Jozwiak) Skovranko, 88, of Duquesne, fell asleep in the Lord, peacefully on Sunday, November 14, 2021, at home. Born on September 12, 1933, in Braddock, she was the daughter of the Late Joseph A. and Valeria (Zgorecki) Jozwiak. Mrs. Skovranko was a member of S.S. Peter & Paul Byzantine Catholic Church, Duquesne, and a graduate of the former Braddock General Hospital School of Nursing. Beloved wife of the Late William S. Skovranko, she is survived by her loving children Debora A. (Dr. James) Ragan, William S. Skovranko, Jr., Joseph A. (Lori), Craig M. (Lori) and Christine M. Skovranko; eight grandchildren, Tera Ragan, Mara Ragan, Jameson Ragan, Ryan Skovranko, Brianna Battles, Brandon Battles, Kaitlyn Doherty and Mackenzie Doherty. A Sister-in-Law Mary (Late Edward) Skovranko and several nieces, nephews and cousins. In addition to her parents and husband, she also was preceded in death by a brother Leonard (Late Pat) Jozwiak.

 
Read More


James Bernard Burke

November 16, 2021 |

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

James Bernard Burke, 72, of Rockwood, formerly of McKeesport, passed away Monday, November 15, 2021 at home comfortably,  surrounded by family and his dogs. He was born April 19, 1949 in McKeesport and was the son of the late William and Elizabeth (Nol) Burke. He was a member of the former St. Mary's German Catholic Church in McKeesport. Jim worked as a draftsman and would later go on to retire as a postal carrier for The United States Postal Service. Jim was a quiet man who never passed up a good meal or a Goodwill. He was a collector of "treasures". He had a special fondness for animals especially chocolate labs and golden retrievers. Animals on his mail route loved him.

 
Read More


James D. McCombs

November 16, 2021 |

By Teichart-Gracan Funeral Home | Posted in: Teichart-Gracan Funeral Home

James D. McCombs, 55 of Boston, Pa, died Nov. 16, 2021.  He is the son of Judith (the late Robert)  Spell and the late James R. McCombs.  In addition to his mother, he is survived by his sister Hilary Spell; uncle Bill (Debbie) Spell; aunt Edie (the late Jack) Spell; cousin Jack III (Karen) Spell, and many other cousins; childhood friend Tim Cohlhepp and his neighbors Russ and Noah.  He is preceded in death by grandparents Anne Spell; Clyde and Genevieve Riemenschneider and Charles and Adaline Mccombs and uncles Clyde "Shorty" (Audrey) and Raymond Riemenschneider.  Jim’s proudest moment was achieving a degree from Point Park and his beloved dog “Spike”. A special thank you to the "Kane family and staff" for the love and support.   Friends received Teichart-Gracan Funeral Home, Duquesne on Fri.  from 3 to 8.  A funeral service will be held Sat. at 11:00 am at the  First Presbyterian Church in Duquesne.  Interment following Mt. Vernon Cemetery. 

 


Helen M. Haramia

November 16, 2021 |

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

Helen M. (Yonek) Haramia, age 81, of Jefferson Hills passed away on Monday, November 15, 2021 at Jefferson Hospital. Born April 16, 1940 in Clairton, she was the daughter of the late Paul and Helen (Piach) Yonek. She retired as a Unit Clerk for Jefferson Hospital. Helen was known for her cooking, baking, and an open seat at the table for holidays.  She will be remembered as a kind and gentle spirit, who loved doing the Sunday crosswords and gardening. Helen was preceded in death by husband Matthew L. “Bones” Haramia. She was survived by her sons Darren M. (Donna) Haramia of Munhall and Brian L. (Lorna D.) Haramia of Jefferson Hills; grandchildren David (Carol) Cochenour, Robert (Darlene) Cochenour, Christina (Tony) Lohman, Stephanie Catchot, and Corinne (Neil) Galloway; her many great-grandchildren; siblings Barbara (Regis) Fiore, Deborah Yonek, William Yonek; nieces Marci Provins, Kimberly (Todd) Provins-Stancliff, Lauren (Matt) Krupp, Courtney (Ben) Reed; nephew PJ Chonko; brother-in-law Robert (Catherine) Haramia; sister-in-law Janet (William) Clelland; and many cousins. In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by her brother Paul Yonek; and nephew Craig Provins. Friends will be received at the A.J. Bekavac Funeral Home, Clairton on Friday, November 19, 2021 from 6 PM-8 PM. A funeral service will take place on Saturday, November 20, 2021 at 10 AM in the A.J. Bekavac Funeral Home chapel with Rev. Paul Edwards officiating. Burial will follow at Round Hill Cemetery, Elizabeth Twp. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude and American Heart Association. Offer condolences at www.bekavacfuneralhome.com

 


Danny R. Lee

November 16, 2021 |

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

Danny R. Lee, age 66, of Elizabeth Twp., passed away on Monday, November 15, 2021 at home. He retired as a self-employed contractor at Dan Lee Construction in Elizabeth Twp. He loved the outdoors and growing flowers from seeds. He trained and bred English Setters and was a member of Pheasants Forever. Born October 2, 1955 in McKeesport, he was a son of the late Elmore and Dolly (Faust) Lee. He is survived by daughter, Jennifer Kozemchak of Monongahela; five grandchildren; brother, Gary Lee of Elizabeth Twp.; and his companion with whom he resided, JoAnn Riley. A memorial gathering will take place from 2-6 PM on Sunday, November 28, 2021, at Buena Vista Fire Hall. Arrangements by the Paul E. Bekavac Funeral Home, Elizabeth. Offer condolences at www.bekavacfuneralhome.com.

 


Paul A. Ball, Jr.

November 16, 2021 |

By Willig Funeral Home | Posted in: Willig Funeral Home & Crematory

Paul A. Ball, Jr., age 43, of McKeesport, died November 11, 2021, at home. Born October 20, 1978, in Pittsburgh, Paul was the son of Paul A. Sr. and Vivian (Knight) Ball. Paul was formerly a cook at both Houlihan's Restaurant and The Cheesecake Factory. He also previously worked at Mifflin Estates in the maintenance department. Paul enjoyed shooting darts, football, visits to the casino, and gaming at home. He is survived by his children, Kayla M. Ball of Irwin, Shania L. Yarris of West Mifflin, Erynn N. Ball of North Carolina, Aleysia L. Ball of Dravosburg, Camren J. Brady of McKees Rocks, Alonna J. Ball of West Mifflin, Brandon Ball of Elizabeth, and Tokyo M. Ball of McKeesport; granddaughters Raelyn Starek, and Alura Jacobs; sisters Henrietta M. Ball, and Felicia A. Ball; grandmother, Henrietta Young; also many aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews; great-nieces and nephews; and cousins. He was also preceded in death by his sister, Azzie Ball; grandparents, Lauro and Azzie Knight.

 
Read More


Richard T. Weigel

November 16, 2021 |

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

Richard T. "Tom" Weigel, age 94, of Pleasant Hills, passed away on Monday, November 15, 2021 at The Residence at Hilltop. He retired as an investment counselor and tax consultant for Mellon Bank in Pittsburgh. He was a Navy veteran serving during World War II and a member of Baldwin Community United Methodist Church. Born January 25, 1927 in Elizabeth, he was a son of the late Willard Houston and Maude (Patton) Weigel and husband of the late Artalissa K. (Keller) Weigel. He is survived by nieces and nephews. No visitation is planned. Burial will be Thursday, November 17, 2021 at 11 AM in Round Hill Cemetery, Elizabeth Twp. Memorial contributions may be made to Baldwin Community United Methodist Church, 5001 Baptist Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15236. Arrangements by the Paul E. Bekavac Funeral Home, Elizabeth. Offer condolences at www.bekavacfuneralhome.com.

 


Sally Marie Richards

November 16, 2021 |

By Jaycox-Jaworski Funeral Home - Crematory | Posted in: Jaycox-Jaworski Funeral Home & Crematory

Sally Marie Richards, age 84, of McKeesport, died November 12, 2021, at Manorcare Health Services of Bethel Park. Born February 18, 1937, in McKeesport, she was the daughter of the late Charles and Sophia (Kamyk) Nagy and the wife of the late William F. Richards.
Sally retired from Bombardier Transportation Company of West Mifflin. She was a member of Mary, Mother of God Parish, and was a Christian Mother at the former St. Mary Czestochowa Church. Sally was also a member of the Renzie Seniors. She enjoyed feeding her pet turtles and backyard wildlife, caring for her flowers, working ceramics, playing cards with her club, and traveling to the beach. Although, her greatest joy was spending time with her grandchildren.

 
Read More


Jakob Jude Moffatt

November 15, 2021 |

By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home

Jakob Jude Moffatt, born on February 15th, 2001, passed away at Children’s Hospital in Pittsburgh on November 14th, 2021. He was the loving son of Lisa and Lee Moffatt. He was the beloved older brother of Zachary, Zaria, and Gemma Moffatt. The precious grandson of Virginia and Michael Moritz and Patricia and the late Jere Moffatt. Jakob was born with the rare genetic disorder, Pfeiffer Syndrome Type 2. He attended the Western Pennsylvania School for Blind Children for 17 years. While there, Jakob spent time with several of his friends and participated in many events which were highlighted by the annual Christmas musical. When not at school, Jakob would often be found sitting in his wheelchair in the kitchen or living room with his family watching his all-time favorite show, SpongeBob, or some of his other favorites like Dance Moms, Mr. Beast YouTube videos, and Arthur. If he wasn’t watching TV, he was walking his dog, Lucy, swimming in his pool, listening to music, playing with his favorite squishy toys, or attending one of his siblings’ sporting events. Jakob loved his frequent trips to amusement parks especially Hersheypark, Kennywood, and Disney World. Jakob was able to live such a full life in large part due to his many doctors, home care nurses, school staff, his longtime bus driver, Claudia, and lifelong pediatrician, Dr. Christine Patti. Jakob will be remembered for his big smile which could always be seen on his face throughout the number of challenges and hardships he came across. He made any room he was in a happier one.
Family and friends will be received on Tuesday from 6-8 p.m. and Wednesday 2-4 & 6-8 p.m. at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon, PA 15642. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Thursday at 10 a.m. in St. Agnes Church, North Huntingdon. Interment to follow in Irwin Union Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to The Western Pennsylvania School for Blind Children in honor of Jakob Moffatt. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com

 


Melvyn E. "Mel" Achtzehn

November 15, 2021 |

By Maloy-Schleifer Funeral Home | Posted in: Maloy-Schleifer Funeral Home

Melvyn E. Achtzehn, age 94, of Duquesne, passed away on November 15, 2021. Mel was born on April 20, 1927, in Gratztown (Amyville), PA. He was the son of Edward and Julia (Yablonsky) Achtzehn and came to Duquesne in 1937. After graduating from Duquesne High School, he studied Architecture while attending night school at Duquesne. His studies were cut short after enlisting in the U.S. Marine Corp during WWII, serving as a PFC with the 1st Marine Division in the South Pacific and North China. After his service, Mel worked for U.S. Steel in the Electric Furnace Department. He became owner and operator of an Atlantic Service Station in Duquesne and then had his own distributorship of oil products with the Atlantic Refining Company of Southwestern PA. He owned and operated Achtzehn Auto Supply in Duquesne, before retiring, where he then began working for the Maloy-Schleifer Funeral Home. Mel married  Norma Roviaro on June 23, 1949 and had 4 children; Cheryl (Gene) Dudash of Davie, FL, Lori Achtzehn of White Oak, Bonnie (Dr. James ) Acuff of McCandless Twp., and Guy (Marcy) Achtzehn of York, PA. He then was blessed with 6 Grandchildren; Dr. Bethany Dudash (Ed Toland), Nicole Dudash, Dr. Heather Acuff (John Blakeney), Haley Acuff, Dr. Megan Achtzehn (Ryan Myers) and Sydney Achtzehn. Mel belonged to Holy Name Catholic Church of the former Christ the Light of the World Parish, in Duquesne. He served as a Lector, Eucharistic Minister and sang in the choir. Mel served as a custodian for 3 years as well as on the parish council for 6 years, also serving as President. Mel organized the Parish Share plan for Holy Name, running it for many years. Mel belonged to the Knights of Columbus #4210, serving in every office of the organization including as a Past Grand Knight. He also served as the Treasurer of Council #4210 and its Corporation for 43 years. He also enjoyed singing with the Knights of Song. Mel served on the Duquesne Catholic School Board for 4 years and then moved onto the Duquesne City School Board for 4 years. He was then elected to serve on the Duquesne City Council for 6 years before becoming Mayor of the City of Duquesne from 1990-1994. He also has been the only President of the Duquesne Business Advisory Corp (DBAC) from its inception in 1978 to the present. He served as Vice President of the Steel Valley Council of Government for the City as well as serving with the Mon Valley Initiative. His awards include the Rotary, Chamber of Commerce Man of the Year, J.C. Penney Man of the Year, recognized by the House of Representatives, the Senate and the Secretary of the Treasury, Businessman of the Year by the Duquesne Business Men, and received the Community Champions Award from the Pittsburgh Post Gazette and TCI. In his spare time. Mel organized motor coach trips to Seneca Niagara Casino twice a year for over 20 years. He worked tirelessly for his Community, Church, and was a devoted Husband, Father and Grandfather to his family, who loved him dearly. Mel was preceded in death by his parents, brother, Charles (Donnie) Achtzehn and sister, Shirley Mae (Achtzehn) Smith, as well as his wife Norma, in 2019. Visitation will be held on Thursday, November 18 and Friday, November 19, 2021 from 2-4 & 6-8 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 Blessing Service will take place on Saturday, November 20, 2021, at 9:30 a.m., followed by a concelebrated Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 a.m., at Holy Name Church, Duquesne, of St. Thomas the Apostle Parish, with Rev. Thomas Lewandowski as Principal Celebrant. Burial will follow at Holy Name Cemetery, West Mifflin, with Military Honors. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project or to the Way Outfitters.

 


Loretta Stetz Zunko

November 15, 2021 |

By Wojciechowski Funeral Home | Posted in: Wojciechowski Funeral Home

Loretta Stetz Zunko, 86 years old of Glassport, died on November 15th, 2021, at Promedica Nursing Center of Bethel Park, PA.

She was the daughter of the late Pearl Pater Stetz and Boleslaw Stetz, stepdaughter of the late Maryann Stetz, and wife of the late Frank Zunko. She was a member of the Queen of the Rosary Parish (formerly the Holy Cross) and cherished her Polish heritage. Loretta retired as a school secretary of the former St. Michael’s School in Elizabeth. She enjoyed reading, crossword puzzles, and watching the Steelers, but her ultimate joy in her life was being “Baba” to her grandchildren. She is survived by her daughter Linda Paese, son in law Mark, her son Daniel Zunko (late Rita), Grandchildren Kristen, Lauren, James and Julie, and great grandchildren Joycelyn and Jackson. Loretta is also survived by one very special niece, Pat Chiaverini, many other nieces and nephews, and dear friends Barbara and Mary Lou. She was pre-deceased by sisters Clara Hinton and Helen Mazurek, and brothers, Leonard, Henry, Edmund, Bernard, and Robert. Immediate family only will be received at the Wojciechowski Funeral Home in Glassport on Saturday November 20th. There will be a mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 am Nov 20th at Saints Joachim and Anne Parish at the Queen of the Rosary Church 530 Michigan Ave, Glassport, PA. Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery in Port View. If desired, in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Greater Pittsburgh Food Bank, North Linden St, Duquesne, PA, 15110 in her honor. (Pittsburghfoodbank.org)

 


Anthony J. Walsh

November 15, 2021 |

By Willig Funeral Home | Posted in: Willig Funeral Home & Crematory

Anthony J. Walsh, age 83, of Port Vue, died November 14, 2021, at UPMC McKeesport Hospital.  Born December 5, 1937, in McKeesport, he was the son of the late Francis and Sarah (White) Walsh and the loving husband of Beverly (Kritikos) Walsh for 57 years.  Anthony retired from CP Industries as a millwright and also worked for U.S. Steel.  He enjoyed golfing and bowling, especially in leagues with his co-workers from CPI.  Anthony cherished time spent with his family during their Ocean City vacations.  He was a proud father and grandfather relishing Tony's musical talents, Sheila's accomplishments, and his grandsons for all graduating from college.
In addition to his wife, Anthony is also survived by children, Sheila Walsh and Tony Walsh; grandchildren, Derek Walsh, Tyler Walsh, and Chase Klingensmith; a brother, Edward Walsh and also survived by nieces and nephews.  The visitation and burial will be private.  Arrangements were entrusted to Willig Funeral Home & Crematory.  Condolences and memories may be shared at www.willigfuneralcremationservices.com.
Charles Danforth, Supervisor

 


Charles A. Churley

November 15, 2021 |

By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home

Charles A. Churley, 80, of North Huntingdon, passed away, Monday, November 15, 2021. He was born, September 6, 1941 in East Pittsburgh, son of the late Adam and Mary (Marko) Churley. Prior to his retirement, Charles was a mailman for the US Postal Service and a veteran of the US Army. He enjoyed fishing, camping and sitting by the campfire. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Patti G. Churley. He is survived by his three daughters, Vickie Dinkel (Kevin), Chris Aiello (Scott), Kara Cella (Paul Jr.); sister, Judy Fekete; 5 grandchildren, Brittany (Salina Morgan), Kevin Jr. (Elizabeth), Anthony (Kayla), Krystal (Niko), Paul III (Elizabeth); and one great-grandchild, Memphis Bozich. A memorial mass will be held on Saturday, January 22, 2022 at 10 AM at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church.at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to All But Furgotten, 70 Carpenter Lane, North Huntingdon, Pa 15642. The family has requested that no flowers be sent. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com.

 


Mary Ann McGuire

November 15, 2021 |

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

Mary Ann McGuire, 64, of Elizabeth Township passed away unexpectedly surrounded by her loving family on Thursday November 11, 2021. She was born February 10, 1957 in McKeesport and was the daughter of the late William James and Joan Frances (McLinden) McGuire. She was a member of Mary, Mother of God Parish - St. Patrick Church and was also a member of the Twentieth Century Club. Mary was a 1975 graduate of Elizabeth Forward High School and a 1977 graduate of Mercy Hospital School of Nursing. She was a Licensed Registered Nurse since 1978 and was actively employed as a Catastrophic Case Manager for Cigna for the last 22 years. Winning numerous awards and recognition throughout the years, working as a Case Manager was something she truly enjoyed. Her patients often became friends. This was a natural occurrence for decades simply due to the level of care and attention she would give to every family. To know Mary, was to love Mary. It is just that simple. With a smile on her face and hugs and kisses for everyone, she would light up any room she entered. Her kindness and willingness to give to others was unmatched. Raising her only daughter and residing in the Greenock community for over 20 years, Mary was the nurse of the neighborhood. If someone needed their blood pressure checked she was there. A bandage changed after surgery, she was there. Anything anyone ever needed, she was there to help. Nursing was not only her career, it was her true passion. Her daughter Victoria was the light of her life, but she was also blessed with two grandchildren who brought her more joy and happiness than she could have imagined. Mary will be deeply missed by many, but the love and kindness she gave to o many will live on forever. 

 
Read More


Earl R. Hays

November 15, 2021 |

By Jaycox-Jaworski Funeral Home - Crematory | Posted in: Jaycox-Jaworski Funeral Home & Crematory

Earl R. Hays, age 73, of Port Vue, died November 9, 2021, at home.  Born June 9, 1948, in McKeesport, he was the son of the late Alvin F. and Ruth P. (Gochnour) Hays.
Earl was a Green Beret in the U.S. Army and was a Veteran of the Vietnam War.  He retired as a contractor with the U.S. Department of Energy.  Earl was an avid golfer and always enjoyed time spent on the course with his brother Alvin.  He was also a member of the NRA.

 
Read More