March 02, 2025 |
By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory
Maryann Elizabeth (Volarich) Wargo, age 88, of McKeesport, passed away at home on Friday, February 28, 2025. Born December 7, 1936, in McKeesport, she was the daughter of the late Paul and Anna Volarich. A graduate of McKeesport High School, Maryann worked in her home and also held several retail and office positions, most recently as administrative assistant at St. Martin de Porres cemeteries. Lovingly known as “Mimi” to her family, she was a member of Mary, Mother of God Parish and of the former Sacred Heart Church and enjoyed singing as a member of the choir. A proud Croatian and member of CFU Lodge #3 (where she celebrated 50+ years of membership), she took great pride in celebrating and sharing her Croatian heritage and could often be found at one of the many Croatian picnics held in the region. In her spare time, she was a musical person, enjoying polka and Tamburitza music, and was proud to be featured as a vocalist with the Mikey Dee Band, Jack Taddy and the Taddy Bears, and Larry Placek and the Tunemasters for numerous polka masses across the Pittsburgh diocese. A diehard fan of football, she loved her Pittsburgh Steelers and could be heard cheering them on each and every game day. Mimi was known for her wonderful cooking and baking and never missed an opportunity to invite friends, both new and old, to join her at the family table. Maryann lived for a sunny day and never missed a chance to bask in the sun on her porch with a cool beverage and a good book.
In addition to her parents and brother John Volarich, she was preceded in death by her husband, the late Robert J. Wargo, Sr., who passed away April 29, 2023. Maryann is survived by her children Robert J. Wargo (Ann Marie) of Pasadena, MD; her daughter Carol Reilly of McKeesport; her grandchildren Matthew Bartko, Lynette Reilly (Brock Nagle), and Michael Reilly (Samantha Cassol); her former son-in-law Gene Reilly; her former daughter-in-law Gail Tegler (Paul); her sister-in-law Norma Jean Dunlay; her brother-in-law Charles “Willie” Wargo; three additional grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and also many nieces, nephews, and friends. She will also be missed by her beloved dog Annie (Lil Pup), her grand-dogs Mazie, Leo, Metro, and Gandalf, and grand-cat Binx.
Special thanks to everyone at Amedysis hospice. You all made such a difference, and we appreciate you so much.
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February 27, 2025 |
By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory
Arthur J. Gobbie, Sr., age 91 of Jefferson Hills, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family and wonderful caregivers on Tuesday, February 25, 2025. Born September 2, 1933 in Clairton, he was a son of the late Richard and Antoinette (Benedetto) Gobbie. A member of Triumph of the Holy Cross Parish and US Army Veteran of the Korean Conflict. Arthur graduated from Clairton High School in 1951 and was a bricklayer and stonemason with the Bricklayers Local #9. He was also a member of the Sons of Columbus Santa Maria Council #4 and the American Legion Post #712.
Devoted husband of 64 years to his wife Loretta (Frascarelli) Gobbie. Loving father to his children Arthur J. (Lynne) Gobbie, Jr. of Bethel Park, Michael (Christine) Gobbie of Glassport, Carla (Joseph) Tranchini of Jefferson Hills, Paul (Lisa) Gobbie of Bethel Park. Loving and proud Pap to ten grandchildren Nicholas (Ashley) Gobbie, Matthew Gobbie, Michael Gobbie, Mark Gobbie, Carly Gobbie, Alexandra (Matthew) Fickley, Laura Tranchini, 1st. Lt. Samuel Gobbie, Katelyn Gobbie, and Julia Gobbie. Adoring great-pap to great-grandson Casey Fickley. Uncle to many nieces and nephews. Besides his parents, Arthur was preceded in death by his siblings Dr. Richard L. Gobbie and Gloria DeCarlo.
Art was known for his love of God and family. He was an avid Steelers fan and held season tickets for decades and he also enjoyed golfing with family and friends as well playing Bocce at IAC. Art was passionate about gardening and enjoyed hunting and fishing, but his favorite past-time was to have large family gatherings around the dinner table with an abundance of food and wine. He was adamant about keeping family traditions alive and passed through his future generations. Art had a warm-kind heart and a great sense of humor, welcoming anyone into his home as family.
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February 25, 2025 |
By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory
James “Jim” W. Chester, age 80, of Glassport, passed away on Saturday, February 22, 2025 at UPMC Presbyterian in Pittsburgh. Born October 13, 1944 in McKeesport, he was the son of the late John Chester and the late Helen Trepanowski. Jim retired as a Lieutenant in the police force for the University of Pittsburgh after 38 years. He was a member of the Shepherd’s Heart Fellowship and Veterans Home, Burning Bush, an active visitor of St. Michael's Church, St. Joachim and Anne Parish, in Elizabeth, a member of the Fraternal Order of Police, and a chaplain with the Pittsburgh Police. He will be remembered as a supportive father and loving grandfather. Jim is survived by his wife of 25 years Mary Ellen (Marcella) Chester; son James (Lindzey) Chester of Shelby, NC; grandchildren Marin and J.J. Chester; stepdaughters Michele Passerrello of Pittsburgh and Jodi Passerrello of NM; grandchildren Augustin and Simon Passerrello.
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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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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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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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February 19, 2025 |
By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory
Deborah Maizer, age 70, of Versailles passed away on Sunday, February 16, 2025 at home. Born March 19, 1954 in McKeesport, she was the daughter of the late Clayton and Mary (McCoy) Furlong. Deb worked as a hairdresser and owned Debby's Hair Salon in Versailles Boro. Deborah is survived by her daughter Heidi Fazio of Monessen; son Brian (Jessica) Maizer of North Huntingdon; grandchildren Quintin, Aislyn, and Penelope Maizer, Nicholas and Dakota Fazio, and Bradley Warman; 6 great-grandchildren; sisters Linda Lewis of Elizabeth and Gretchen Scott of SC; also nephews. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by brother Mark Furlong. Friends will be received at the Daniel F. Bekavac Funeral Home & Crematory, 4504 Walnut Street, McKeesport, PA 15132 on Monday, February 24, 2025 from 1 PM to 3:30 PM. A memorial service will follow at 3:30 PM with Rev. Daniel Bach officiating.
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February 18, 2025 |
By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory
Thomas E. Williams, age 84, of Forward Twp., passed away Monday, February 17, 2025 at Forbes Hospital. He retired as the founder and owner of Tom’s Body Shop in Forward Twp., He was a lifetime member of the East Monongahela Sportsman’s Club and an honorary member of the Gallatin-Sunnyside Volunteer Fire Department. Born February 19, 1940 in Elizabeth, he was a son of the late Andrew and Sarah (Jobb) Williams and husband of the late Carole J. (McCorkle) Williams. He is survived by his daughters, Amy Brunazzi of Forward Twp. and Jennifer (Simone Meltesen) Williams of New York, NY; grandchildren, Erin Brunazzi, Sarah (Stephen) Ciuca and Arthur Brunazzi; great-grandchildren, Trent, Sofia, Anson and Ellis; also, nieces, nephews and cousins. Friends will be received in the Paul E. Bekavac Funeral Home, 221 North Second Avenue, Elizabeth, on Thursday, February 20, 2025 from 3-7 PM. A funeral service will be Friday, February 21, 2025 at 10 AM in the funeral home chapel with Pastor Jeff Riker officiating. Burial will follow in Round Hill Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Gallatin-Sunnyside Volunteer Fire Department, 3325 Rainbow Run Road, Monongahela, PA 15063. Offer condolences at www.bekavacfuneralhome.com.
February 17, 2025 |
By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory
Robert J. King, age 87, of Elizabeth Twp., passed away Friday, February 7, 2025 at home. A Navy veteran, he retired as a foreman at Equitable Gas and was an avid Steelers and Penguins fan. Born October 7, 1937 in Braddock, he was a son of the late Joseph and Grace (Mimnaugh) King and husband of the late Shirley Ann (Torockio) King. He is survived by his son, Eric A. (Alison) King of Westminster, MD; granddaughter, Carolyn King; grandson, Benjamin King; also, nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by his siblings. A memorial gathering will take place at the Paul E. Bekavac Funeral Home, 221 North Second Avenue, Elizabeth on Monday, March 10, 2025 from 10 to 11 AM. Burial will follow at Round Hill Cemetery, Elizabeth Twp. Memorial contributions may be made to Humane Animal Rescue Pittsburgh, 1101 Western Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15233. Offer condolences at www.bekavacfuneralhome.com.
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 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 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 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 07, 2025 |
By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory
With loved ones at her side, Camille Louise Demeis transitioned on January 31, 2025, joining her mother (Frances), her father (Frank) and brother (Mike) in God’s care. Born May 19, 1963 in McKeesport, Camille’s sweet and fiery personality will be missed immensely by her sisters Eileen Koscho, (husband George and son Aron), Marian Rowan (husband Jim and son Josh), Roseann (daughter Angela and son Anthony) and Bernadette and her brothers Frank (daughter Ren), Leo (wife Jean, daughters Stephanie, Julie and Leah), Dan, Joe (wife Patti and daughter Erica and son Jake) and Jack (wife Lynn). Camille had a keen sense for fashion and accessorizing and was always the queen of the runway. She was very athletic also. Her favorite sport was swimming and she competed in multiple Special Summer Olympics. Everyone was very proud of the numerous medals she won. Camille was a gift to her family. The life lessons that she taught them and stories she created will live with them forever.
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