January 13, 2026 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Vincent J. "Vince" D'Appollonio, 68, of Glassport passed away peacefully on January 10, 2026 surrounded by his family. He was born in Lenola, Italy to the late Biagio and Rosa (Colontone) D'Appollonio. Vince carried his Italian heritage with pride throughout his life. As a devoted partner, father, and grandfather - his strength, resilience, and quiet humor defined him. He faced a long and courageous battle with illness, yet his dignity, grace, and unwavering love for his family remained true. He was a beloved fiancee to Diane Menzies of Glassport; a proud and loving father to Gina (Robert Kramer) D'Appollonio of Pittsburgh, and Vinny D'Appollonio of Glassport; as well as a wonderful grandfather to Demia, who brought him immense joy from the moment he found out about her. He is also survived by his step-children, and extended family. Family meant everything to him, and his love is a legacy that will continue to live on through them. He will be remembered for his kindness, loyalty, and steady presence, as well as the deep care he showed for those closest to him. He valued the time spent with his family, the meaningful conversations, and the simple comforts of home - especially his dog, Louie. There is no visitation at this time. Arrangements are with the Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 1638 Lincoln Way, White Oak, PA 15131. (412) 672-6322 Troy J. Gilbert, director. A Celebration of Life will be held Sunday, January 18, 2026 from 2-6pm at the Sons of Italy, Glassport - 101 6th Street, Glassport, PA 15045. In lieu of flowers, the family would rather have your presence on Sunday and hear all of the wonderful memories and stories you have to share about Vince. Condolences can be made at GilbertFuneralHomeAndCrematory.com
January 13, 2026 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Helen M. Weiskircher, 92, of North Huntingdon, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, January 8, 2026. Born on January 27,1933 in Clairton, PA, she was the daughter of the late Frank and Edith (Lotz) White. Helen graduated from McKeesport High School and had a long career working for Equibank in their Elizabeth office. A lifelong Pittsburgh sports fan, Helen enjoyed attending her grandchildren’s sporting events and was also a season ticket holder for both the Steelers and Pirates. For many years, Helen and her special friend, Rich Steiger, traveled to Treasure Island, Fl during the winter months where they attended many Pirate spring training games in Bradenton. Helen was deeply spiritual and a lifelong and proud member of the Boston United Methodist Church where she sang in the choir and served for a period as financial secretary. In her later years, Helen and many of her life-long friends began the tradition of hosting quarterly spaghetti dinners open to the public in order to raise operating funds for the church. Besides being active in church, she was also a member of the Elizabeth Township Senior Citizens. In addition to her parents and in-laws, Russell and Gladys Weiskircher, she was proceeded in death by her loving husband, Albert (Abbie); beloved daughter, Debra Mae Costello; sisters Dorothy (Gerald) Reese and Jane (George) Stevanus; sister in-laws Lila (George) Hackett and Elenora (Jean Vernon, J.V.) Stone; niece Sharma Stone; and, nephew Roy Stevanus. Helen loved her grandchildren dearly and was proud of their life accomplishments. She will be sorely missed by Dr. Jaclyn M. Wood, Andrew Costello, Patrick Costello, Kristin Rohlfs and Katie Crank. Further fulling her life were her great grandchildren Maren Wood, Catherine Wood, Evelyn Wood, Grant Costello, Callan Costello, Rylie Rohlfs, Reagan Rohlfs and Clayton Crank.
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January 11, 2026 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Ronald "Ron" Duane Maurer, 86, of McKeesport PA, passed away peacefully at Kane Community Living Center in McKeesport on January 10, 2026. He was born March 8, 1939 in Greenock, PA and was the son of the late Lester and Gertrude B. (Taylor) Maurer. He had an extensive career in sales, and eventually became the founder of Weldon Acres Trophy Company in McKeesport, PA. He passed his entrepreneurial spirit to his daughter and son. They formed their own trophy companies, his daughter's in Bellefontaine, Ohio and his son's in McKeesport, PA. Later in life, he was well known in both Pennsylvania and Ohio as "the Hawaiian Shave Ice Man" with the blue hat. He was known for his quick wit and an amazing sense of humor. Ron was an avid hunter, fisherman and had a love for his beagles. His wife, Val accompanied him on all his adventures in the woods, hunting by his side. He also had a passion for spreading his knowledge of hunting along to his many beloved nephews, who joined him in the fields. He will be greatly missed.
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January 09, 2026 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Anthony J. DeBellis, 77, of Hermitage passed away Tuesday, January 6, 2026. He was born in East Liberty on July 30, 1948 to the late John and Leonora (Pecora) DeBellis. At the age of 8, Anthony and his family moved to Edgewood – but as a Pittsburgh native his whole life, he loved the city, its neighborhoods, and traditions. He began his working years in his family’s vault businesses, later working as a coal miner for Consol Coal, and eventually retiring from the Pennsylvania Turnpike.
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January 08, 2026 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Joan E. Hornfeck, 81, of Greenock went home to be with the Lord Wednesday, January 7, 2026. She was born in McKeesport, September 25, 1944 to the late Leonard “Rizzo” and Virginia (Gross) Hornfeck. Joan, also known as, “Joanie bologna full of macaroni,” and “Joanster,” lived a life full of good memories, good family, friends, and lots of laughter. She worked many years for GC Murphy Warehouse, Sam’s Club, and GNC. No matter where or when you met Joanie, she was always a charismatic soul with a smile on her face and good times ahead. She shot pool for nearly 15 years with her *almost* all girls team, consisting of herself, Betty, Cindy, and Trez. Regardless of being called the “rag team,” they won the championship their 1st year competing in the league. She enjoyed many things in life. Steelers games, oldies music, camping, boating, her morning coffee, and back porch hangouts with her “hens & friends” parties. She also had the journey of traveling all throughout Europe with her church group from St. Dennis, sightseeing many beautiful places and making friends along the way. Anybody who knew her, loved her, and now many will miss her.
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January 07, 2026 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Michael Edward "Pap" "Whiffer" Shoemaker, 61, of West Elizabeth, passed away Tuesday, January 6, 2026. He was born June 19, 1964 in New Eagle and was the son of the late James Benjamin Shoemaker, Sr. and the late Luella Virginia (Werner) Shoemaker. After graduating from high school, He spent many years working as a skilled carpenter with High Performance Builders and also lent his talents to landscaping work. He loved to build and create things. Pap was a simple man with a rich spirit. He found joy in riding his Harley, tending to his gardens filled with flowers and vegetables, and spending time outdoors. A true outdoorsman, he loved hunting and fishing at the family camp in Huntingdon County. He was a diehard Pittsburgh Steelers fan, had a love for Ford Mustangs, and was always quick with a wise crack or a joke that left everyone laughing. He was known for his generosity and heart of gold, Pap would help anyone who needed it, no questions asked. But above all else, he cherished his family. He loved his wife, children, grandchildren, and extended family deeply. He will be greatly missed.
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January 06, 2026 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Patrick Goodfellow, 75, of West Newton passed away Saturday, January 3, 2026. He was born at home in McKeesport on December 22, 1950 to the late Paul Aloysius and Marcella Ann (Skiffington) Goodfellow. A Wounded Combat Army Veteran, Pat served during the Vietnam War, for Company A 4th Battalion 1st Brigade USAARMC. Handling many advanced recon missions, Pat earned himself the National Defense Service medal, Vietnam Service medal, and the Vietnam Campaign w/ 60 device medal, as well as 2 purple hearts. After his discharge in 1971, he worked for VISTA Metals and Basic Carbide as a machine operator. He was also a member of the Owl's Club and the firehall in Buena Vista, as well as the WIMBU firehall, and the Sutersville Moose. He is survived by his siblings, Paul A. (Debbie) Goodfellow of Ligioner, Gerald Goodfellow of Buena Vista, and Carol Ann (Craig) Southern of West Newton; many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews; and a brother-in-law, Jack Blaha. In addition to his parents, Patrick is preceded in death by his sister, Rosemary Blaha. There is no visitation. 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 inurnment will take place at Round Hill Cemetery at a later date. Donations can be made in Patrick's honor to the Wounded Warrior Project via support.woundedwarriorproject.org or to the Disabled American Veterans via https://help.dav.org/. Condolences can be made at Gilbertfuneralhomeandcrematory.com
January 05, 2026 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
William R. Wareham, Jr., 79, of McKeesport, passed away on Sunday, January 4, 2026 at UPMC McKeesport Hospital. He was born June 26, 1946 in McKeesport and was the son of the late William R. Sr., and Sara (Filtz) Wareham. He was a retired US Navy Veteran serving during the Vietnam War. He was a retired employee for Westinghouse Air Break Company (WABCO) and VA Nursing Home in Aspinwall in dietary. He was a member of St. Mary's Russian Orthodox Church in McKeesport. He was also a member of the White Oak American Legion, East McKeesport VFW and the McKeesport Duquesne Masonic Lodge.
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January 02, 2026 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Lucillia Renee Yancey, 56, of White Oak, passed away on Friday, December 26, 2025. She was born August 9, 1969 in Baltimore, MD and was the daughter of Betty Lucinda Yancey. Lucillia loved to crochet, go shopping, get her hair done, and garden. She had a special calling in her life to take care of everyone, she took great care of her family and friends and that passion reflected her career as a Certified Nursing Assistant, most recently working at Kane Community Living Center in McKeesport, where she worked alongside her twin sister. She will be greatly missed by her family.
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December 30, 2025 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Kimberlee L. Henry, 55, of McKeesport passed away Tuesday, December 30, 2025. She was born in Pittsburgh, April 6, 1970 to the late William and Louise (Dailey) Ward. She was an active member of the First United Methodist Church in McKeesport, as well as a few other churches. She is survived by her husband, Vincent A. Henry; children, Robert J. (Samantha Johnson) Henry of Greenock, Shane (Jamie) Henry of Huntington Beach, CA., Jessie Henry of McKeesport, and William (Robin Reynolds) Henry of Mt. Pleasant; a daughter-in-law, Sarah Henry of White Oak; and her grandchildren, Vincent, Alexis, Isabella, and baby Shirley due in March. In addition to her parents, Kim is preceded in death by her brother, William Lawson. Friends are welcome Saturday, January 3, 2026 from 5-7pm at the Gilbert Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc., 6028 Smithfield Street, Boston, Elizabeth Township. (412) 751-5000 Drew J. Gilbert, director. Funeral service will follow at 7pm in the funeral home chapel. Green Inurnment will take place at a later time. Condolences can be made at Gilbertfuneralhomeandcrematory.com
December 29, 2025 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Russel E. "Skip" Gill, 82, of West Mifflin, passed away Saturday, December 27, 2025. He was born July 15, 1943 in West Mifflin and was the son of the late Ernest and Mildred (Sayre) Gill. He was the husband of 40 years to the late Mary Lou (Pietzak) Gill, who passed away November 13, 2011. A proud U.S. Navy Veteran, Skip served during the Vietnam War and was awarded the National Defense Service Medal and the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal in recognition of his service. Skip attended Saints Joachim and Ann Parish and was a member of the former Holy Spirit Church in West Mifflin. He retired after 30 years of service as an assistant roller at U.S. Steel Irvin Works. Following retirement, he continued working alongside his family at his son’s business, Steel City TV and Appliance Repair, where he served as both a technician and in administration. He was a die-hard Pittsburgh Steelers fan. Skip was deeply involved in his sons’ lives, coaching them in wrestling, baseball, and football. He was wild and tough, with a great sense of humor, and was known for being very funny. Though he had a tough exterior, Skip was a loving and compassionate man who cherished his family dearly-especially his grandchildren. He lived by his favorite expression: “I work hard, so I can play hard.” He will be greatly missed.
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December 28, 2025 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Eric Joseph Francis, 61, passed away peacefully on December 23, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. Born on March 18, 1964, to Gert Pfefferkorn, Eric was raised in McKeesport, Pennsylvania, before moving to Michigan, where he raised his family. A proud veteran of the United States Army, Eric carried his sense of duty into his civilian career. He held a career for over 30 years as a lineman for DTE, he was a dedicated union member with IBEW Local 17, where he served as a representative, steward, and treasurer. He was also an active member of his local Elks Lodge. Eric was a man who found joy in his hobbies and the world around him. He enjoyed spending time with his family and his loyal dog, Bear. An avid outdoorsman, he hunted, fished, and enjoyed time on his boat, Grace. He enjoyed capturing memories through photos and had a deep soul for music; he lived through his songs and loved playing his guitar. At home, he was known for his skills in cast iron cooking. Eric’s life was guided by his faith. He spent much of his time reading his Bible and found particular strength in his favorite verse, Isaiah 6:8: "Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, ‘Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?’ And I said, ‘Here am I. Send me!’" Eric’s greatest pride was his family.
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December 26, 2025 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Helen J. Taylor, 79, of Myrtle Beach, SC, formerly of Boston, PA, passed away Tuesday, December 23, 2025. She was born March 25, 1946 in McKeesport and was the daughter of the late Samuel and Helen J. (Andersen) Case. Helen was the wife of 43 years to the late Robert Elliott Taylor, who passed away October 19, 2014. Helen was a homemaker, but she helped her late husband on many home remodels through the years. She had an infectious laugh that could light up every room she was in and a great sense of humor. She enjoyed traveling, especially to Las Vegas and Arizona. She lived in the Boston and Lincoln Borough most of her life, with a few stays in Florida and finally in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Helen loved her family dearly, She was a loving mother and grandmother, who was caring and showed endless support for her family, she was the grandmother that every child should have. She will be greatly missed.
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December 23, 2025 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Rita (Sisley) Gallo, 75, of White Oak, passed away Saturday, December 20, 2025. She was born January 22, 1950 in McKeesport and was the daughter of the late Leonard Raymond and Rose Annete (Salopek) Sisley. Rita dedicated many years of service working in the financial department of the former GC Murphy Warehouse. She was known for her warm smile and quick wit, she truly enjoyed being around people and had a wonderful sense of humor that brought joy to friends, neighbors, and all who knew her. She enjoyed watching the neighborhood kids play outside on warm summer days. She had a lifelong love of crocheting and knitting and was an active member of several crocheting and knitting clubs throughout the area. Rita was also a devoted member of the Duquesne Women’s Club, where she proudly served on the
GFWC Education and Libraries Community Service Program. One of her happiest places was the White Oak Senior Center, where she especially enjoyed Wii Bowling alongside her friends. Despite facing numerous health challenges over the years, Rita remained a generous, giving, and social person who always found ways to help others. Her kindness, resilience, and friendship left a lasting impact on everyone she met, and she will be deeply missed.
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December 21, 2025 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Kenneth Edward Abels, 76, of Elizabeth Township, passed away on Saturday, December 20, 2025. He was born February 23, 1949 in McKeesport and was the son of the late Samuel Edward Abels and Agnes (Mayher) Econovich. He was the loving husband of 53 years to Patricia (McBurney) Abels. He received a Bachelor's Degree in Business from Penn State University. He was a supervisor for Eastman Chemical Company in West Elizabeth. Kenneth was a Pittsburgh sports enthusiast and held season tickets for the Steelers for over 20 years. He was also an avid hunter, bowler and golfer.
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