May 23, 2025 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
William "Bill" Howard Gonder, 87, of North Huntingdon, passed away peacefully at The Palms at O'Neil Personal Care Home on Thursday May 22, 2025. He was born June 18, 1937 in Chalfont Borough and was the son of the late Maron Gonder and Sylvia Lewis. He attended Turtle Creek High School and the University of Pittsburgh for a year. He was an Engineering Draftsman at Fahringer, McCarty and Gray for 21 years until his retirement in 2003.
He was also a proud US Army Veteran who served our country and was stationed in Korea for a year during his service time.
William was also involved in the East Suburban Friendship Club, Norwin Area Meals on Wheels and he enjoyed playing the lottery, golfing, lifting weights, dining out and happy hours with his favorite drink, martinis, in his younger years. He enjoyed dancing with his beloved best friend, Carol Boros of 23 years. Their friendship blossomed into travel time together and many memories with Carol and her children, Sean Boros of North Versailles Township and Alicia Boros (James LaFosse) of El Paso, TX. He was very dedicated to feeding and caring for feral cats and was involved in TNR with the assistance of Donna Petrill of Community Angel Network throughout the years. He enjoyed watching war movies, western movies, Name that Tune, Golf and Football. Also napping in his favorite recliner with his rescued Tuxedo cat, Sylvester Kitty in his cat bed beside him.
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May 21, 2025 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Kathy Eileen Ulbrich, 69, of Houston, Texas, formerly of Elizabeth Township, passed away on Monday, May 19, 2025. She was born May 10, 1956. She was the daughter of the late John and Stella Ulbrich. Kathy was a 1974 graduate of Elizabeth Forward High School and went on to attend Theil College, where she received a Bachelor’s Degree in Education. She was a resident of Houston, Texas for over 40 years where she taught secondary education for over 25 years and retired at age 56. She traveled throughout Europe and the U.S. She loved the beaches.
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May 16, 2025 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Norma Jean Gallo, 92, of Elizabeth Township, passed away Thursday, May 15, 2025. She was born November 16, 1932 and was the daughter of the late Charles B. and Lula A. (Ford) Mayfield. She was a longtime member of the former Frank Baptist Church. Norma was a longtime employee and housekeeper for Dr. Rudy and Ann Buck. She was a loving wife, mother and grandmother and her family meant everything to her. She will be greatly missed. She is survived by her husband of 72 years, Joseph E. Gallo; son, Duane J. (Kelly) Gallo; granddaughter, Chelsea Fredrickson; great-granddaughter, Vivian Fredrickson; and sister, Anna Mae (the late John "Bud") Richards.
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May 14, 2025 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Dolores Buchman Reichman, 95, of White Oak, passed away Tuesday, May 13, 2025. She was born February 15, 1930 in McKeesport and was the daughter of the late Berti and Helen (Mermelstein) Buchman. Dolores was the wife of the late Harry Reichman. She was a member of the Gemilas Chesed Synagogue and its sisterhood there. Upon graduation from the Winona School of Professional Photography, she became one of the first female photographers in the area. She started her career in photography at her family business, Buchman Photography, where she had many local and national achievements and accolades. She also owned and managed the former Three Rivers Beauty Supply where she oversaw 24 employees and was involved in all facets of the business. In 1986 she closed the business after 25 years of service. She was also a staff member with Barbara Hafer, former PA Auditor General and Treasurer. Dolores was also a member of Hadassah- The National Council of Jewish Women. She had a special place in her heart for The Sisters of The Divine Redeemer in Elizabeth Township who included her in their 1959 Yearbook for her photography skills. She will be greatly missed.
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May 13, 2025 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Deborah L. "Debi" (Caster) Geissler, 67, of Elizabeth Township, passed away Tuesday, May 13, 2025 at home. Debi was born September 11, 1957 in McKeesport and was the daughter of the late William J. and Betty Jane (Swindell) Caster. She worked for Advent Communications for many years in the accounts payable department. Debi was a very private person, but also touched a lot of people throughout her life and had many people rooting for her through her illness. She was the most selfless person you could ever meet and her family and granddaughters meant everything to her. She truly lived for her family. Debi will be greatly missed. She is survived by her husband of 45 years, Keith M. Geissler; son, Derek (Carly Straight) Geissler; daughter, Tara (Shawn Shiffler) Geissler; her beloved granddaughters, Riley M. Geissler and Kennedy G. Shiffler; aunt, Janet Cant; her Sinnamond Family; cousins and extended family; and her beloved dog, Zoey.
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May 12, 2025 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Joseph William “Bill” Smart, 79, of Elizabeth Township, passed away peacefully on the morning of May 2, 2025, at his home in Naples, FL. Born on February 12, 1946, in Elizabeth to the late Charles Ritchie and Mildred (Gephart) Smart, Bill lived a life defined by devotion — to family, country, community, and faith. Bill dedicated much of his career to General Motors as a skilled Machine and Vibration Analyst, where his sharp mind and steady hands earned him the respect of colleagues and friends alike. A proud U.S. Navy Veteran, he carried his sense of duty and service into every chapter of his life. A man of deep faith and generosity, Bill was a devoted member of Mt. Vernon Presbyterian Church, where he served not only as a elder but also as a joyful presence in the choir, a tireless volunteer, and a beloved cook at countless church gatherings. His love for music was a lifelong passion, bringing him great joy as he sang with the Mt. Vernon Presbyterian Church Choir, the Vanderbilt Presbyterian Church Choir in Naples, FL, and the Everglades Barbershop Quartet. His rich tenor voice lifted spirits and built community wherever he went. A lifelong learner and nature enthusiast, Bill was an avid reader and an expert on birds, able to identify their calls with ease. On the golf course, his competitive spirit was matched only by his love for the camaraderie of the game.
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May 12, 2025 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Timothy "Ace" Paul Lawrence, of McKeesport, passed away on May 6, 2025, his 63rd birthday. He was born on May 6, 1962 and was the son of the late Andrew and Dorothy (Frinsco) Lawrence. He worked for Aramark in Beverage Sales at the Pittsburgh Stadiums which he enjoyed. He also enjoyed attending the McKeesport Community Day events, he loved music and playing his guitar. He will be missed by his sister, Dorothy "Sunny" Popp of McKeesport and nephew Kelly "Kip" Kaylor of White Oak. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Robert Lawrence. There is no visitation. Inurnment will be held on Tuesday, May 20, 2025 at 11 AM at McKeesport-Versailles Cemetery. Arrangements are by the Gilbert Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc., 1638 Lincoln Way, White Oak, PA 15131. (412) 672-6322 Troy J. Gilbert, director. Condolences can be made at Gilbertfuneralhomeandcrematory.com.
May 12, 2025 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Jeffrey Mayersky, 56, of Elizabeth Township passed away Friday, May 9, 2025. He was born and raised in McKeesport on December 28, 1968. Jeff was a CDL Truck Driver for Dura-Bond and for Tube City for many years and enjoyed hunting and fishing in his free time. In addition to his mother, Jeff is also survived by his son, Jonathan Mayersky of Elizabeth Township; his mom, Barbara Mayersky; cousin, Jason Batchelor; his former wife, Jennifer Argyle; as well as many lifelong friends. Jeff is preceded in death by his grandparents, John Michael and Elizabeth "Betty" Mayersky; and his aunt, Betty Batchelor. Arrangements are by the Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 6028 Smithfield Street, Boston, Elizabeth Township. (412) 751-5000 Drew J. Gilbert, director. A private celebration of life will be held at a later date. Condolences can be made at Gilbertfuneralhomeandcrematory.com
May 08, 2025 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Paul Ellis Caplan, 76, of White Oak, passed away on Wednesday, May 7, 2025. He was born December 1, 1948 and was the son of the late Joseph S. and Joan (Rosenberg) Caplan. Paul attended the University of Tennessee and worked as a retail manager for many years. He was also a Life Master of the American Contract Bridge League and a bridge teacher. He also loved model trains, puzzles and games.
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April 30, 2025 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Mary Elaine Conway, 83, of Elizabeth passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, April 29, 2025 following a recent steady decline in her health. She was born in Elizabeth Township on September 10, 1941 to the late John Bramhall and the late Elva (Gephart) Davenport. She was the wife of the late Ronald L. Conway who passed away in April 2010. Elaine worked as a cook for Mount Vernon Dairy a long time ago, as well as a janitor for Jefferson Hills School District. She is survived by her sons, Jack L. (Cindy) Conway of Jeanette, David A. (Sandy) Conway of West Newton, and Scott O. Conway of Elizabeth Township; her daughter, Gloria J. (Charles) Waszczak of Enon, OH; grandchildren, Amber (Toby) Printz, Brittany (Robert) Brown, Danielle (JP) Derr, Travis Conway, Shanna Conway, and Josh Conway; great granddaughter, Bria Brown; and also by her brother, Ronald Bramhall. In addition to her parents and husband, Elaine is also preceded in death by her brother, John Bramhall. While loving palliative care was provided by all of her children, special appreciation to and for Hospice services, Carla Durosko, and Cindy Conway, as well as Scott & Josh Conway. Dearly loved by her extended family and friends, you knew Elaine was playing with you, if she gave you a hard time. If you gave it back you became her friend…just the way she showed her love which will be remembered, treasured and missed. May her memory be eternal in the hearts of those who loved or knew her! Friends are welcome Friday, May 2, 2025 from 2-4 & 6-8pm at the Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 6028 Smithfield Street, Boston, PA 15135. 412-751-5000 Drew J. Gilbert, director. Funeral Service will be held Saturday, May 3, 2025 at 10:00am in the funeral home chapel. Interment will follow at the Mount Vernon Cemetery, Elizabeth Township. Condolences can be made at Gilbertfuneralhomeandcrematory.com
April 28, 2025 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Cheryl Lynn Ehlers, 75, of Elizabeth, passed away on Tuesday, April 22, 2025. She was born on September 3, 1949 and was the daughter of the late Dwight M. and Pearl E. (White) Hill. She was a member of Calvary Chapel South Pittsburgh in West Elizabeth where she loved serving Jesus, her savior and she also loved music, crafts, her cats, and making people laugh. She was the loving wife of Fred Ehlers.
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April 28, 2025 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Ryan Michael Stare, 45, beloved father, son, brother, uncle , nephew, cousin and friend passed away on April 24, 2025, when he ended his life after a long and courageous battle with depression, making the decision to leave behind his emotional pain. He loved all his family and friends dearly and they loved him. He will be missed beyond words. Ryan was born on April 7, 1980 in Long Branch NJ; he lived in the Pittsburgh area in Elizabeth Township since he was five years old. He graduated from Elizabeth Forward High School in 1999 and from Pennsylvania State University Behrend College in Erie, PA in 2003 with a Bachelor’s Degree in IT Technology. He had wonderful friends from high school and college that remained his close friends. His professional life consisted of working for General Electric, Ernst & Young, BNYMellon and lastly as the Senior Manager of IT Audit/Cybersecurity for City National Bank. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Reid and Betty Mitchell, and John and Ruth Knoll.
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April 28, 2025 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Clifford S. Wagner, 69, of North Huntingdon, after a long brutal battle with a brain illness, passed away Sunday, April 27, 2025.He was born in Braddock on May 23, 1955 to the late Joseph and Pauline (Kenyhercz) Wagner. He was a life member of the McKeesport Sportman's Association, and well as a member of the Hartford Heights Fire Hall Social Club. After obtaining an Associates degree from the Greenburg Institute of Technology, Cliff went on to work as a lab tech in electrical power repair for Westinghouse and during the transition to Siemans. He is survived by his wife, Patricia (Moreman) Wagner; daughter, Deana L. Wagner of Carnegie; and a sister, Paulette (Clint) Page of North Huntingdon. In addition to his parents, Cliff is preceded in death by his brother, Joseph Wagner. There are no services. Arrangements are by the Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 6028 Smithfield Street, Boston, PA 15135. (412) 751-5000 Drew J. Gilbert, director. Memorial Contributions in Cliff's honor can be made to the Sable Kennels via https://sablekennel.weebly.com/ or a check payable to "Safer" can be mailed to 1681 5th Ave., McKeesport, PA 15132. Condolences can be made at Gilbertfuneralhomeandcrematory.com.
April 25, 2025 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Andrew V. Lapinsky, 85, of Elizabeth, passed away on Thursday, April 24, 2025 at home. He was born on July 19, 1939 in McKeesport and was the son of the late Felix and Pearl (Winters) Lapinsky. He was the loving husband of the late Ruth Ann Lapinsky, who passed away on January 28, 2020. Andrew worked for US Steel for 51 years and most recently for Basic Carbide. He was also a dedicated and loyal member of the 11th Ward Club since June 11, 1974.
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April 24, 2025 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Linda Rowe, 58, of North Huntingdon passed away Tuesday, April 22, 2025. She was born in McKeesport on May 11, 1966 to the late Robert and Ruth (Marquette) Vennebush. Linda dedicated her life to caring for others as a home health caregiver - her compassionate spirit touched the lives of countless patients, and her gift for providing comfort and support was deeply felt by all those she assisted. Linda is survived by her beloved spouse, Edward "Ed" Flanigan; her two sons, Kenneth (Julianne) Rowe and William Rowe; and her stepdaughter, Sherry (Rick Forkey) Flanigan.; wonderful grandchildren, Richard Forkey, Jr., and Abigail Forkey, as well as Morgan and Mason Rowe; her siblings, Patricia Murtha, Karen (John) Filicky; her bonus sister, Cheryl Porco; and many cherished nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, Linda is preceded in death by her twin sister, Lisa Vennebush. Friends are welcome Saturday, April 26, 2025 from 12 - 4pm at the Gilbert Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc., 6028 Smithfield Street, Boston, Elizabeth Township. (412) 751-5000 Drew J. Gilbert, director. A small prayer service will take place at 4:00 in the funeral home chapel. Condolences can be made at Gilbertfuneralhomeandcrematory.com
