Mary Ellen "Mimi" Ference
January 13, 2025 |
By Teichart-Gracan Funeral Home | Posted in: Teichart-Gracan Funeral Home
Michael Thomas Rapach
January 12, 2025 |
By Administrator | Posted in: William S. Skovranko Memorial Home
Michael Thomas Rapach, 71, of Cranberry Township, PA, formerly of Duquesne, died peacefully December 7, 2024, at his home in Cranberry Township. Born in Duquesne on September 21, 1953, he was the son of the late Michael and Constance (Kushnir) Rapach. He is survived by his brother Luke M. (Ronna) Rapach and nieces Natalie (Mack) Lobdell, Emily and Melanie Rapach, great nephew Jude Lobdell, aunt Joy Kushnir, cousin Bernard S. (Shay) Kushnir and many other cousins and extended family. He will be sadly missed by all.
Michael was a 1971 graduate of Duquesne High School. He attended the University of Pittsburgh and received his undergraduate Bachelor of Arts (Russian language) degree in 1975 and Master of Education degree in 1985. He was a proud member of the Phi Beta Kappa honorary society. He also received his gifted education certificate in1985.
Michael taught gifted education and languages at Waynesburg Central High School for 26 years and retired from teaching in 2011 as chair of the foreign language department. He had also previously taught in the Duquesne School District, in both substitute and full-time capacities upon college graduation. Some of his fondest teaching memories were the field trips that he took with his students. He always enjoyed hearing from his former students and kept in touch with many of them after his retirement.
Sheila Diane Johnson
January 12, 2025 |
By Administrator | Posted in: Robert A. Waters Funeral Home
Sheila Diane Johnson, affectionately known as “She She” to her beloved grandchildren, passed away peacefully on December 29, 2024, at the age of 80. Born on December 3, 1944, in McKeesport, Pennsylvania, Sheila was the cherished daughter of the late Hays and Ruth Caldwell.
Sheila grew up in Clairton, Pennsylvania, and graduated from Clairton High School before she trained as a computer operator. She went on to work at UPMC in Pittsburgh PA, where she proudly held a computer operator position until her retirement.
A woman of joy, style, and resilience, Sheila loved dancing, dressing up, and spending nights out with friends. Known for her sharp wit and straight-shooting advice, Sheila was the confidant and spiritual guide many turned to in difficult times. Her faith and wisdom were embodied in her favorite sayings, such as “God helps those who help themselves” and “Chuuuch,” phrases that remain etched in the hearts of all who knew her.
Minetta Alyse Scott
January 12, 2025 |
By Administrator | Posted in: Robert A. Waters Funeral Home
Minetta Alyse Scott, 72, of McKeesport, was born January 6, 1952, in Duquesne, PA. She was the beloved daughter of the late Luther and Beatrice (Jeffries) Daviston.
Minetta attended and graduated from Duquesne High School. Minetta worked as a caregiver in a daycare center.
Minetta enjoys walking, loves to cook for her family, and plays games on her tablet.
Minetta attended Jerusalem Baptist Church in Duquesne, PA with her family.
Richard James Henry IV
January 12, 2025 |
By Administrator | Posted in: Obituary
Richard James Henry IV, 75 of Fort Wayne passed away December 23, 2024. He was born August 22, 1949 in Akron, Ohio to parents Richard James Henry III and Dorothy Mae (Baker) Henry. Richard lived most of his life in McKeesport, Pennsylvania and Clearwater, Florida. He recently moved to Fort Wayne to be closer to his family.
Richard worked for many years as a Certified Nursing Assistant. He enjoyed collecting antiques, dancing and going to the beach.
Richard is survived by his children Richard James Henry V, Christopher (Ernestine) Henry, Leah (Victor) Francisco, Robin Henry and Ashley Schulze. He is also survived by 9 grandchildren and many nieces, nephews, grand nieces and grand nephews. Richard was preceded in death by his brothers William (Dayle) Henry, Darryl (Kathy) Henry and Kevin (Mary) Henry. His sisters Linda Christian and Audrey (Kenneth) Hamlin also preceded him in death. Private services.
Family request memorial donations be made in Richard's name to The American Heart Association.
Arrangements by Midwest Funeral Home, Fort Wayne, Indiana.
Algie Washington Daniels
January 12, 2025 |
By Administrator | Posted in: Robert A. Waters Funeral Home
Algie Washington Daniels, 95, formally of Duquesne, Pennsylvania, departed this life peacefully on January 6, 2025, at Kane Community Living Center of McKeesport, PA.
Born May 15, 1929, in Buffalo Junction, Virginia to the late James Elmore and Betty (Spencer) Daniels.
He was a graduate of the Duquesne High School Class of 1949. Following graduation, he worked for the United States Steel Duquesne Works until the corporation closed in 1984.
Algie was a family man, he loved his wife, children, grandchildren, and his nieces and nephews.
Karen Ruth Salsgiver Long
January 12, 2025 |
By Administrator | Posted in: Obituary
Karen Ruth Salsgiver Long of Bellefonte, Pennsylvania died peaceably at Mount Nittany Medical Center in State College, Pennsylvania on January 7, 2025 with her husband at her bedside. Karen was born July 6, 1941 in Gilpin Twp. (Leechburg, Pennsylvania) to the late Neill and Jean Rausch Salsgiver. She graduated from Leechburg High School in 1959. She married the love of her life William (Bill) Long January 2, 1981 in the Old Stone Church in Monroeville recently celebrating 44 years of marriage.
Together they owned and operated B & K Ceramics and Ambassador Cards and Gifts in North Versailles, Pennsylvania before moving to State College. Karen retired in 2004 after 20 plus years in the Acquisitions Department of the Pattee Paterno Library at Penn State University. Then after retirement, worked at Barbara’s (now Christine’s) Hallmark in State College for 6 years. Everyone knew Karen by her unique laugh.
Karen was of Presbyterian faith belonging to Sampson Mills Church in White Oak Borough where she loved singing in the choir. When her children were young, she was a Girl Scout Leader and Cub Scout Den Mother in White Oak. She was secretary for the Glen at Paradise Hills North Condo Owners Association in Bellefonte. She was an avid reader, doing all kinds of arts, crafts, and puzzles. She enjoyed going to Silver Sneakers and playing Mahjong with her girlfriends. She loved dancing with her husband and enjoyed all sports especially Penn State athletics, Pittsburgh Pirates, Steelers and Penguins.
In addition to her husband she is survived by her children, Tammy (Gregg) Purinton of Pittsburgh and Mark (Debbie deceased) Newman of North Versailles. Also surviving are 4 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren. Also surviving are her mother-in-law Virginia Riazzi Long of White Oak, brother-in-law Kenny Long and Eugene Ferraccio with many nieces and nephews. In addition to her late parents, she was predeceased by her sister Kathleen Ferraccio of North Versailles.
Per Karen’s wishes there will be no services. Final arrangements will be made by Haky Georgiana Centre County Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers contributions can be made to Bellefonte Food Bank c/o Faith Centre, 131 South Allegheny Street, Bellefonte, PA 16823
An online guestbook may be signed and condolences left for the family at www.hakygeorgianafh.com.
Jane E. Contrella
January 12, 2025 |
By Jaycox-Jaworski Funeral Home - Crematory | Posted in: Jaycox-Jaworski Funeral Home & Crematory
It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Jane E. Contrella, who died on January 10, 2025, at age 87, of Elizabeth Twp., at Concordia of Franklin Park. Born August 29, 1937, in McKeesport, she was the daughter of the late John and Sophie (Dudek) Pasternak and wife of the late Richard D. Contrella.
Jane was a homemaker and dedicated her life to caring for her family and home. She was a member of Holy Family Polish National Catholic Church of McKeesport, where Jane was a member of the Ladies Adoration Society, taught Sunday School for over 25 years, and was a Pierogi Pincher. She enjoyed ocean cruises, baking her famous nut rolls, and was a great seamstress in her early years.
A cherished mother, Jane lived a life filled with love, compassion, and grace, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of all who had the privilege to know her.
Cynthia L. Radinovic
January 12, 2025 |
By Jaycox-Jaworski Funeral Home - Crematory | Posted in: Jaycox-Jaworski Funeral Home & Crematory
Cynthia L. Radinovic, age 70, of McKeesport, died on January 9, 2025, at Forbes Hospital. Born October 18, 1954, in Fairbanks, Alaska, she was the daughter of Barbara (Knight) and the late Armando "Al" Buti and wife of the late Larry Radinovic.
Nicholas “Nick” Mario Denardo
January 11, 2025 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Nicholas “Nick” Mario Denardo, 75, of Port Vue, passed away at home on Saturday, January 11, 2025. He was born on August 14, 1949 in McKeesport and was the son of the late Dominic and Josephine (DiGiannantonio) Denardo. Nick retired from US Steel Clairton Works after over 30 years. He was a member of Park Baptist Church in Versailles Boro, where he also was on the Security Team and a member of the Men’s Prayer Group. He was also a Treasurer of Elizabeth Township Sportsman’s Association, Past President of Clairton Works Federal Credit Union and of USS Local 1557 Union, he was also a member of the Polish Club, Archer Hill Bowling League and Pastrik’s Bowling and Golf Leagues and the Mon Yough Church Dartball League.
Todd M. Carolan
January 10, 2025 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Todd M. Carolan, age 55 of North Huntingdon, passed away on January 9, 2025. He was born on July 9, 1969 in Greensburg, a son of the late John Francis Carolan Jr. and Jacqueline Smaligo Carolan. Todd was a graduate of Norwin High School in the Class of 1987, and he went on to become a driving instructor and owner of A1 Driver Training School. Todd always looked forward to working in his Thumbprint Sculpture Studio as a sculptor of clay and resin models of horror figurines. He enjoyed listening to music and watching horror movies, and he cherished his collection of vintage G.I. Joe action figures. Todd loved to read (especially Stephen King novels), and he was renowned for his knowledge of World War II history. He was also a talented tattoo artist. In addition to his parents, Todd was preceded in death by his son Killian Carolan, and one sister Brianne Huey. He is survived by his beloved wife Nancy (Blinkhorn) Carolan, two daughters Felicia Berkepile (Dan) and Alley Scott (Mike), one brother Shawn Carolan (Susan), one sister Heather Herr (Bryan), his father-in-law Robert Blinkhorn and mother-in-law Nancy Blinkhorn, his aunt Mary Ann Wingert, and numerous nieces and nephews. Friends will be received at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home on Tuesday from 2 PM to 4 PM with a service beginning at 4 PM. Afterwards, guests are welcomed to join the family from 4 PM to 8 PM in the nearby Moments Event Hall for refreshments, where Todd's artwork will be on exhibit. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be given to the Carolan family. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
Joe Danscak
January 10, 2025 |
By Willig Funeral Home | Posted in: Willig Funeral Home & Crematory
Joe Danscak, age 74, of Liberty Borough, died January 7, 2025, at UPMC East Hospital. Born March 19, 1950, in Duquesne, he was the son of the late John and Isabelle (Figel) Danscak.
Joe worked for U.S. Steel Duquesne Works, was a landscaper, and retired from Duquesne University. He served in the Navy during the Vietnam War overseas in the Mediterranean. He was a member of the WABCO bowling league, spending many happy hours throwing strikes and sharing camaraderie at White Oak and Green Valley bowling alleys. His zest for life extended beyond the lanes, as he found joy in daily crossword puzzles, engaged with the latest commentary on Fox News, and savored the nostalgia of old reruns of his favorite television shows.
Rosemarie Divins
January 10, 2025 |
By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory
Joseph A. Amatangelo Jr.
January 09, 2025 |
By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory
John R. Snyder
January 09, 2025 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
