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Dean Schehr

February 22, 2025 |

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

Donald Dean Schehr, age 92 of North Huntingdon, passed away on February 20, 2025.  He was born on September 14, 1932 in Rillton, a son of the late Frank Schehr and Hannah Plues Schehr.  Dean was a graduate of Sewickley High School Class of 1950.  Prior to his retirement, he was employed as a Core Room worker for WABCO.  Dean was an avid Pittsburgh sports fan and he also liked to garden.  He enjoyed tinkering in the garage and he often frequented local garage sales.  Most of all, Dean loved to spend time with his children, twelve grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.  In addition to his parents, Dean was preceded in death by three brothers, August Schehr, Joseph Schehr, and Frank Schehr, and two sisters Isabelle Brocco and Viola Emili.  He is survived by his beloved wife of 64 years Cathy Schehr, three daughters Cathy Vetal (Dan), Dee Dee Korch (Tom), and Kim Fullwood (Charles), two sons Donnie Schehr (Libby), David Schehr (Sue), grandchildren Mark (Kaitlin), Julie (Jordan), Brian (Kristen), Carolyn (Joshua), Darren (Ashlyn), Jenna, Allison, Madison, Michael, Hannah, Kayla (Johnny), and Hayley, two great-grandchildren Lucy and Madison, and numerous nieces and nephews.  Friends will be received at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon, on Monday from 2-4 PM and 6-8 PM.  A funeral service will take place in the funeral home chapel on Tuesday at 10 AM, followed by interment in Irwin Union Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, contributions may be given in Dean's name to the Norwin Chamber of Commerce.  www.shirleyfuneralhome.com

 


Leona Mae George Hensler

February 22, 2025 |

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

Leona Mae George Hensler, age 94 of Adamsburg, formerly of North Huntingdon, passed away on February 21, 2025.  She was born on December 3, 1930 in Turtle Creek.  Leona was a member of Charter Oak Methodist Church in Jeannette and previously a member of First United Methodist Church in Irwin.  In her free time, she loved to play bingo, crochet, color, and play card games with her grandchildren.  Leona was preceded in death by her first husband Charles George in 1970, her second husband Robert Hensler in 2009, and one son-in-law Pete Cruder.  She is survived by one son Steven George (and wife Mary Jo), two daughters Sandra Cruder and Lynn Marinello (and husband Phillip), four grandchildren David Singler (and wife Erica), Steven George (and wife Allison), Sara Baird (and husband Ryan), and Michele Gallagher (and husband Will), eight great-grandchildren Spencer, Nico, Taron, Cora, Sadie, Emmy, Levi, and Walker, and two bonus grandchildren Abigail and Adam.  Friends will be received at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon, on Tuesday from 4 PM to 8 PM.  A funeral service will take place in the funeral home chapel on Wednesday at 10 AM.  In lieu of flowers, contributions may be given in Leona's name to the Vitas Community Connection hospice organization. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com

 


Francis E. Doyle

February 22, 2025 |

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

Francis E. Doyle, age 78, of Finleyville passed away on Thursday, February 20, 2025 at PAM Health Specialty Hospital of Pittsburgh. Born February 22, 1946 in West Elizabeth, he was the son of the late Charles W. and Helen (Biles) Doyle. He retired as a project manager for the Army Corps of Engineers in Pittsburgh and was a member of the Clairton Fire Department. He was also a scuba instructor and a shipwreck diver. Francis was preceded in death by his wife, the late Jacqueline L. (Schnorr) Doyle who passed away on March 4, 2020. He is survived by his daughters Christina Spano of Jefferson Hills and Roberta Franz of Pittsburgh; grandchildren Matthew Braunscheidel and Rebecca and Robert John Franz; great-grandson Zayne Braunscheidel; and brother Robert Doyle of Acme. In addition to his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by his brother Charles Doyle, Jr..

 
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Jeanne M. Messick

February 22, 2025 |

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

Jeanne M. Messick, age 73 of Cranberry, formerly of North Huntingdon, passed away on February 21, 2025.  She was born on July 3, 1951 in Braddock, a daughter of the late Henry DiBiase and Ruth Balowitz DiBiase. Jeanne was a member of St. Agnes Church, and she was employed as a registered nurse at Forbes Hospital prior to her retirement.  In her free time, Jeanne looked forward to baking, cooking, and reading books, and she always loved to cruise.  In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by one son Blaine Messick Jr. and two sisters Toni Dempsey (and husband Walter) and Renee DiBiase.  Jeanne is survived by her beloved husband Blaine Messick Sr., one son Jason Messick (and wife Brenda), one brother Richard DiBiase (and wife Kim), and grandchildren Dr. Brandon Messick (and wife Dr. Lauren Messick), Sarah Messick, Emma Messick, and Olivia Messick. Friends will be received on Tuesday from 2 PM to 7 PM at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon.  A funeral service will take place in the funeral home chapel on Wednesday at 10 AM.  www.shirleyfuneralhome.com

 


Linda Carol Rosak

February 22, 2025 |

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

Linda Carol Rosak, age 73, of Glassport, formerly of McKeesport, died February 21, 2025, at UPMC McKeesport. Born December 15, 1951, in Kentucky, she was the daughter of the late Hubert and Justine (Shimfessel) King.

 
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Rita J. Puskaric

February 22, 2025 |

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

Rita J. Puskaric, age 90, of Versailles passed away on Thursday, February 20, 2025 at UPMC East with her daughter at her side. Born September 2, 1934 in McKeesport, she was the daughter of the late Charles and Mary (Busch) Pomycala. Rita was a member of the CFU Lodge #146 in Versailles. Beside her parents, Rita was preceded in death by husband, Milan Puskaric who passed away on February 28, 2017; son David Puskaric; and siblings Bertha Pomycala, Frances Germek, Marcella Pomycala, Jean Troscka, John Pomycala, Florence Puhala, Stanley Pomycala, Alice Cindrich, Raymond Pomycala, Richard Pomycala, and Patricia Rushe. Rita is survived by her daughter Denise Puskaric of Versailles; and nieces and nephews.

 
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Marlyn Shipley

February 21, 2025 |

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

Marlyn J. Shipley, age 88 of North Huntingdon, passed away on February 20, 2025. She was born on March 30, 1936 in McKeesport, a daughter of the late Edward Dias and Gertrude Stearns Dias. Marlyn was a member of the Park Baptist Church in McKeesport, and she was employed as a supervisor at McKeesport Hospital prior to her retirement. She cherished her role as a homemaker, and in her free time she looked forward to playing bingo, writing poems, and completing word search puzzles. Above all, Marlyn was a dedicated Gold Star Mother.  In addition to her parents, Marlyn was preceded in death by her beloved husband Alvin Shipley, one son SPC4 Michael Shipley, one son-in-law Kent Sedlock, one brother Edward Dias, and two sisters Sheryl Bear and Connie Johnson. She is survived by four sons, Alvin Shipley (and wife Terrynn), Raymond Shipley, Randy Shipley (and wife Janis) and Robert Shipley, one daughter Anita Sedlock, two brothers Terry Dias and Darrell Dias, fifteen grandchildren, and twenty-five great-grandchildren. Friends will be received at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon, on Monday from 2-8 PM. A funeral service will take place in the funeral home chapel on Tuesday at 11 AM with interment to follow in Penn Lincoln Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be given in Marlyn's name to a veteran's charity of your choice. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com

 


Elmer A. Bahus

February 21, 2025 |

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

Elmer A. Bahus, age 91, of West Mifflin, formerly of Duquesne, passed away on Friday, February 21, 2025, in Halcyon Senior Living, Bridgeville. Born in McKeesport on August 19, 1933, he was the son of the late Alex and Elizabeth (Zay) Bahus.  

He was a retired fireman for the City of Duquesne and was a former security guard at Century III Mall. He was a member of the former Holy Name Church of Christ the Light of the World Parish in Duquesne, currently St. Thomas the Apostle Parish. Elmer was very proud of his service in the Air Force during the Korean War. 

He was the husband of the late Geraldine “Gerry” (Falchetti) Bahus; father of Robert “Bruce” Bahus of Lacey, WA, and the late David (wife Lisa survives) Bahus of West Mifflin; former father-in-law of Maryem Bahus; grandfather of David (Shannan) Bahus, Christopher Bahus, Emily Bahus and Julia Bahus; great grandfather of Wesley Bahus and Lillian Bahus. Elmer was the last surviving member of his brothers and sisters.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, February 27, 2025, from 9-11 a.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 be held, following visitation, at 11:00 a.m., with Deacon Ron Demblowski officiating. Burial will follow in Holy Name Cemetery, West Mifflin, PA, with Military Honors.

 

 


Helen M. Cielieska

February 21, 2025 |

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

Helen Cielieska, age 97, of Dravosburg, died February 19, 2025, at The Haven Convalescent Home. Born August 13, 1927, in Clairton, she was the daughter of the late Joseph and Elizabeth (Palsa) Rukavina and wife of the late John Cielieska.  Helen worked as a telephone operator at Westinghouse and Bell Telephone, where her kindness and laughter brightened the lives of her colleagues. As a member of St. Agnes Church in West Mifflin and an active participant in Riverview Community Life, she embodied the spirit of community, always ready to lend a helping hand or share a warm smile.  In her leisure time, Helen found joy in baking delicious treats, immersing herself in captivating novels, and preparing meals for her loved ones. Her home was a haven filled with love, laughter, and the sweet aroma of her culinary creations. She also enjoyed trips with family to their camp in Big Bear Lake West Virginia.

 
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Jean Thomas

February 21, 2025 |

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

Jean Thomas, age 101 of North Huntingdon died February 19, 2025 at UMPC East, Monroeville. She was born October 2, 1923 in Washington, Pa, a daughter of the late Floyd and Mossie Hunker Hummel. Jean was employed during WWII by Westinghouse Electric. She enjoyed gardening, cooking and decorating. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved husband Robert H. Thomas in the year 2000, a sister, Mary Jane Morgan. She is survived by one sister, June Garrison, and several nieces and nephews. There will be no public visitation. Entombment will be private at Penn Lincoln Memorial Park. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com.

 


Roger A. Blake

February 21, 2025 |

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

Roger A. Blake, age 81, of McKeesport, died February 18, 2025, at UPMC McKeesport Hospital.  Born December 4, 1943, in McKeesport, he was the son of the late Vincent and Ruth (Mellinger) Blake.
He had an appreciation for art, with a particular fondness for museums; the Andy Warhol Museum held a special place in his heart.  His keen eye for detail also led him to explore photography and film development, activities that brought him joy and allowed him to express his creativity.

 
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Karen M. Russo

February 21, 2025 |

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

Karen M. Russo, age 79, of Rostraver, and formerly of Jefferson Hills passed away on Wednesday, February 19, 2025 surrounded by her loving family. Born December 8, 1945, in McKeesport, she was the daughter of the late Charles and Karen (Roscoe) Geiger. She worked as a school bus driver for Belle Vernon School District for many years. Karen was a member of St. Anne Parish in Belle Vernon. She was a former Christian Mother and enjoyed card club. She will be remembered as a loving mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. Karen is survived by her children Shawn (Jamie) Russo of Grindstone, Bryan Russo of Rostraver, and Nicole (Gary) Seraly of McMurray; grandchildren Gina (Jeremy) Liptak, Zachary (Haley) Russo, Nathan (Micall) Russo, Bryanna Robel, and Samuel and Gavin Fragello; great-grandchildren Gracie, Khloe, Hank, and Gloria Mae. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister Charlotte Geiger; twin sister Karla Kostuch; and infant grandson Seth Fragello.

 
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George T. Stevens, Sr.

February 21, 2025 |

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

George T. Stevens, Sr., age 76, of McKeesport, died at home on February 19, 2025.  Born April 2, 1948, in Ruffs Dale, he was the son of the late Donald and Alberta (Adams) Stevens and husband of Lavinia (Ludwick) Stevens for 54 years.  
Born into a loving family, George met the love of his life, Lavinia, at the tender age of 15 at the Buena Vista skating rink, beginning a lifelong journey that showcased their unwavering bond. George's passion for music blossomed in his youth when he played in a band with his brothers, known fondly as The Stevens Brothers and The Notations.  Those early days of harmony and laughter set the stage for a life filled with rhythm.
For 32 devoted years, George served as a delivery driver for Nutrition Inc., a role that brought him joy in connecting with the community.  Outside of work, he found solace in his garden, nurturing flowers and creating a sanctuary that reflected his warmth and nurturing spirit.

 
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Jeremy Aaron Schmitt

February 20, 2025 |

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

Jeremy Aaron. Schmitt age 49 of Jeannette died February 18, 2025 at Independence Westmoreland Hospital with his loving family by his side. He was born August 11, 1975 in New York, a son of the late Robert and Geraldine Martchek Schmitt and stepson of John Wagner. Jeremy was a graduate of Norwin, Class of 1993. He later attended WCCC School of Nursing.  During his school years, he was employed by Burger King, North Huntingdon,  a laborer for Vangura and Sunoco in Jeannette.   He was a man of faith, loved ar, music, and the band "The Ramone" . In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his best friend and brother, John Michael Schmitt , his grandparents, Lucille and Edward Martchek. . He is survived by his Uncle Glenn Martchek and his wife Jen, cousin Harlie Nave, niece Ashlee Samuels and loving friend Robyn McGhee. There will be no public visitation. Services were handled by James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon. In lieu of flowers, please make donations through the funeral home website www.shirleyfuneralhome.com to assist with  Jeremy's  funeral arrangements.  Jeremy was an organ donor upon death through CORE, always helping others.  "When they arrive at the gates of death, God welcomes those who love him."

 
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Richard D. Barnes

February 20, 2025 |

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

Richard D. Barnes, age 82, of McKeesport, died February 17, 2025, at St. Clair Hospital. Born October 14, 1942, in McKeesport, he was the son of the late John "Jack" and Betty (Toal) Barnes and husband of Gloria (Winter) Barnes for 55 years.  Richard was a proud Air Force veteran, serving his country with honor. Following his military service, he brought his expertise and craftsmanship to the workforce as a pipe fitter at CP Industries for 48 years. His commitment to his profession was matched only by his devotion to his family. Richard was a long-standing member of the White Oak American Legion Post 701, where he fostered camaraderie and shared many treasured moments with fellow veterans.  A man of many interests, Richard enjoyed the spirit of competition found in both the former Christy Park Bowling League and St. Mark's Golf League. He enjoyed watching his grandchildren play sports, always cheering them on with the unwavering pride of a doting grandfather. Richard also delighted in trips to the casino, spending hours trying his luck and sharing laughter with friends and family.

 
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