September 21, 2023 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Samantha Lee Kalkbrenner, 15, of Dravosburg, passed away Wednesday, September 20, 2023. She was born April 24, 2008 in Oceanside, CA., and is the daughter of Carl Lee and Nenita (San Martin) Kalkbrenner of Dravosburg. Samantha was a sophomore and cheerleader at Serra Catholic High School in McKeesport. She was a member of St. Thomas The Apostle Parish- St. Therese Church in Munhall where she was also an Alter Server and very active in the Youth Group. She was also a member of St. Agnes Church and attended St. Therese School. She was a volunteer at the Appalachia Work Camp and Portals of Fear Haunted School and loved to dance at Steel City Academy of Dance. Her mother was her favorite home cook chef.
Read More
September 20, 2023 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Deborah Ann (Brady) Ludwig, 62, of McKeesport, formerly of Elizabeth Township, passed away at home on Tuesday, September 19, 2023. She was born March 5, 1961 in Norfolk, VA., and was the daughter of David H. Brady, Sr., and Patricia Ann (Derdich) Brady of Elizabeth Township. She was the wife of the late James W. Ludwig, Jr., who passed away March 7, 2020. Deborah was a former Math Teacher at the Wilkinsburg Middle School. She was a 1979 graduate of Elizabeth Forward High School. She attended Penn State University and was a graduate of Penn West Cailfornia.
Read More
September 17, 2023 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Tanner Edward Faircloth, 23, of Elizabeth Township passed away Friday, September 15, 2023. He was born March 4, 2000 in Pittsburgh, and is the son of Edward L. Faircloth, II., and Jacqueline J. (Withrow) Faircloth. Tanner had a huge heart, was a kind and gentle soul, and was always thinking of others before himself. He was also extremely witty, charming, naturally smart, and loving. He enjoyed spending time with his girlfriend and his family. He loved to take walks on the trail, collect rare coins, and enjoy nature. He excelled on the swim team in high school, enjoyed the time he had at Pitt and excelled there as well. He worked in high school as a lifeguard for White Oak pool, then eventually for UPS and Fedex, along with having his own Ebay business. He had a way of making an impact on everyone he met and his smile would light up the room.
Read More
September 15, 2023 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Lida Wilma (Lojpersberger) Benyak, 92, of Liberty Borough, formerly of New Kensington, passed away Thursday, September 14, 2023. She was born in Johnson City, NY on May 19, 1931 and was daughter to the late Paul and Helen (Fabik) Lojpersberger. She graduated from Johnson City High School in 1949 and moved to New Kensington, where she worked for ALCOA Aluminum Co. while remaining involved with Sokol, USA - Lodge #46; where she was a gymnast, taught classes, and performed in a Czechoslovakian Folk Dance Co. These groups brought her to meet the love of her life, Joseph Benyak. They got married on October 16, 1954 and were married for a wonderful 56 years before his passing in September, 2010. Her and Joseph had moved to Liberty Borough and Lida became an extremely active member of the Liberty Prebyterian Church for 66 years - from an attendance officer to the "Sunshine Lady," and various other activities, you could always count on Lida to be involved. She was also a member of the Liberty Senior Citizens and loved traveling with their whole group. While traveling, she found her favorite travel time was with her family to the beach.
Read More
September 14, 2023 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Catherine “Kay” Chemsak (Utlak), AKA “Bubby”, 93, passed away at her home September 13, 2023 with her family by her side. Kay, who embraced life with a fun-loving and adventurous spirit, left this world with a legacy of laughter, joy, and cherished memories that will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. She was born in Youngstown, PA on February 27, 1930 to the late Michael and Katerina (Orinchin) Utlak. Kay grew up with four brothers and three sisters. Her earliest memories include weekend train rides and bakery visits with her brother, which set the stage for her lifelong love of trains, travel and sweets. As a young adult, Kay embarked on a fulfilling journey that included a memorable chapter in Washington, D.C., where she worked for the FBI. It was during her time there that she had a chance encounter with J. Edgar Hoover in an elevator, a memory she often shared. Upon leaving DC, she moved to McKeesport, PA and met her loving partner of 57 years, Andy Chemsak. There, they raised their kids Jean and David and treasured time with their grandchildren. One of Kay’s most endearing qualities was her ability to maintain a childlike magic even in old age. When visiting Disney World at age 90, she rode the Frozen ride with a look of pure joy on her face and was inspired to buy an Elsa doll to remember that experience. Kay's laughter was infectious and she often had a mischievous sparkle in her eyes when telling stories about her earlier life. She had a unique gift for making friends wherever she went, a testament to her welcoming personality. She was an avid BINGO player, enjoyed all types of crafts, loved to travel, and never passed up a good sing-along. Most of all, Kay loved her family. She always looked forward to holidays and events where everyone was together, describing these fondly as “a lot of eating and loud talking.”
Read More
September 14, 2023 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
A generation of Post-Gazette readers knew who to turn to for the newest hot spots in Pittsburgh, what to wear to them and —- perhaps most importantly — what recipes and restaurants were on fire this week: Woodene “Woody” Merriman. A “legend” in the ranks of reporters and editors during her tenure from 1977 through 2005, Ms. Merriman took on many roles at the PG, including as restaurant and food critic, lifestyle editor and assistant managing editor.“With her no-nonsense, git-er-done style, Woody was a role model,” said Marlene Parrish, retired food writer for the PG. “Whatever the subject, she nailed it. Also an author and lifelong feminist, Ms. Merriman, who moved from Elizabeth Township to a retirement home in Chevy Chase, Md., 10 years ago, died on Aug. 19 of complications from an infection. She was 97.
Read More
September 14, 2023 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Joseph Michael Hoagland, 32, of McKeesport, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, September 13, 2023 at home. He was born January 24, 1991 in McKeesport and was the son of Debra A. Hoagland of McKeesport and the late Jeffrey J. Hoagland, who passed away May 2, 2022. Joseph enjoyed fishing, especially at Lake Emilie inside Renzie Park in McKeesport. In addition to his mother, he is survived by his brother, Jeremy Hoagland; step-brother, Christopher (Stephanie) Hoagland; special sisters, Marissa and Jessica Boros; numerous aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews; and best friends, Stuart Mohamed, Jeffrey Furlong and Blaine Hilbert. There will be no visitation. Arrangements are by the Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 1638 Lincoln Way, White Oak (412) 672-6322 Troy J. Gilbert, Director. Condolences may be made at GilbertFuneralHomeandCrematory.com
September 13, 2023 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Grace Elizabeth Gall, 80, of Glassport, passed away Wednesday, August 30, 2023 at her daughter's home in White Oak. She was born September 19, 1942 in New Eagle and was the daughter of the late Peter and Thelma Mercedes (Gilbert) Garish. She was the wife of the late Robert Gall who passed away February 13, 2014. Grace was a member of The Church, Sutersville and was an Ordained Minister. She is survived by her daughter, Victoria Jill (Earl G.) Ward of White Oak, grandchildren, John (Katie) Freund, Sherry (Kevin) Kevech, Jesse Jeffcoat, Eric Jeffcoat, Michael Jeffcoat, Crystal Jeffcoat, Mason Jeffcoat, and Max Jeffcoat, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins. She was preceded in death by her sons, Jesse Jeffcoat and Timothy Jeffcoat, sisters, Joan Garish Emery, and a brother, James Garish. There is no visitation. Private graveside service and inurnment took place at Round Hill Cemetery, Elizabeth Township. Arrangements are by Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 6028 Smithfield Street, Boston, Elizabeth Township. (412) 751-5000 Drew J. Gilbert, Director. Condolences may be made at Gilbertfuneralhomeandcrematory.com
September 12, 2023 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Linda A. Dow, 74, of McKeesport, passed away Monday, September 11, 2023. She was born July 26, 1949 in McKeesport and was the daughter of the late Daniel A. and Florence J. (Couch) Borrelli. She was the wife of the late Paul "Gene" Eugene Dow, who passed away November 26, 2020. Linda worked most of her life in her family's business, Borrelli's Lounge and was a member of Turner's Association in Christy Park. She was an avid candy crush player, enjoyed video poker and enjoyed reading, especially the Harry Potter Books. She was a Trekie who loved Star Trek, most notably the Deep Space Nine Series, but loved all the shows and movies. Most importantly she was a devoted mother, wife, sister, aunt and friend who will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
Read More
September 12, 2023 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Donald Ray Plants, 90, of West Elizabeth, passed away Sunday, September 10, 2023. He was born September 24, 1932 in Jefferson Boro and was the son of the late Grover and Mary (Lewis) Plants. He was the husband of the late Joan Laverne (Rush) Plants who passed away December 29, 2012. Donald was the Proprietor of Shadlure Tackle in West Elizabeth and was also a Diesel Mechanic retiring from J & L Steel. He was a US Army Veteran and served in the Korean War.
Read More
September 12, 2023 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Nancy Lee Schoemer, 87, of Bunola, passed away Monday, September 11, 2023. She was born in Elizabeth on February 9, 1936 and was the daughter to the late William and Nancy (Neal) Crosbie. She was the wife to the late William Schoemer before his passing in December of 1973. She is survived by her sons, Kenneth and Darryl Schoemer of Bunola; her daughter, Beth (Robert) Clawson of Bunola; grandchildren, Eric Schoemer, William Schoemer, and Caitlin Clawson; great-grandchildren, Cole Schoemer, and Scarlett & Lyla Babusci; and also by her sisters, Betty Henry, and Sally Gray. In addition to her parents and husband, Nancy is preceded in death by her brother, William Crosbie; and by her sisters, Linda Crosbie, and Carolyn Cameron. There is no visitation. Arrangements are by the Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc. 6028 Smithfield Street, Elizabeth Township. (412) 751-5000 Drew J. Gilbert, director. Condolences can be made at Gilbertfuneralhomeandcrematory.com
September 11, 2023 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Faye A. Puskaric, 93, of Elizabeth Township, passed away Monday, September 11, 2023. She was born in McKeesport on March, 24, 1930 and was the daughter of the late David and Violet (Morrison) Hill. She was the wife of the late Lawrence R. Puskaric who passed away September 22, 2008. Through her life, she was a member of the Central Highlands United Methodist Church, and no matter who you ask, she was such a wonderful woman. She loved to dance, and was always hosting, cooking, or entertaining the family - her famous nut rolls or stuffed cabbage was always a request for events. She is survived by her son, David (Debbie) Puskaric of McKeesport; grandsons, David (Melissa) Puskaric, Jr., of Naples, FL., and Christopher Puskaric of McKeesport; and great-grandchildren, Faith & Jack Puskaric. In addition to her parents and husband, Faye is preceded in death by her sister, Joan Altfather. 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 burial will take place at Mount Vernon Cemetery. Condolences can be made at Gilbertfuneralhomeandcrematory.com
September 11, 2023 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Eugene Esposito, Jr., 55, of Pittsburgh passed away Saturday, September 9, 2023. He was born in Pittsburgh on April 8, 1968 and was the son of the late Eugene Esposito, Sr., and Rosemary (DeReno) Esposito. He was an avid Pittsburgh Steelers and Penguins fan, he loved heavy metal music and was a great guitar player. Through everything, music is what motivated him to keep going. He is survived by his son, Geno Esposito of Pittsburgh; sisters, Rosemary (Frank) Yurkovich, and Linda (Tom) Gilarski; nieces, Rachel Matta, Lindsay Bressi, and Amanda Gilarski; his aunt, Helen Creaturo; and his uncle, James DeReno. In addition to his parents, Eugene is preceded in death by his step-mother, Maggie Esposito. There is no visitation. Arrangements are by the Gilbert Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc. 6028 Smithfield Street, Boston, Elizabeth Township. (412) 751-5000 Drew J. Gilbert, director. Condolences can be made at Gilbertfuneralhomeandcrematory.com
September 11, 2023 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Paul M. Brumbaugh, 89, of Penn Township, passed away Saturday, September 9, 2023 at home. Paul was born December 30, 1933 in Connellsville and was the son of the late Morgan and Elsie (Eicher) Brumbaugh. He was the husband of the late Darlene E. (Clugston) Brumbaugh who passed away September 16, 1981 and the late Mary C. (Iarussi) Brumbaugh, who passed away June 4, 2019. Paul worked as a drafting engineer at Westinghouse for over 30 years and later would become a partner at Concept Engineering Group for over 10 years. He was very proud of his work and was once featured in Popular Mechanics Magazine. He was a very active member of The McKeesport Gun Club, an avid hunter and golfer. He enjoyed trapshooting and was a proud member of The NRA. Most importantly he was a loving father and grandfather and will be greatly missed.
Read More
September 08, 2023 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Shirley Ann Dworek, 85, of Liberty Boro, passed away Friday September 8, 2023. She was born June 29, 1938 in McKeesport and was the daughter of the late George and Julia (Molnar) Garancsi. She was a member of Sts. Joachim and Anne Parish- St. Mark Church, Liberty Boro. She was a retired bookkeeper for the family business, the former Dworek's Amoco in McKeesport and was a 1957 graduate of McKeesport High School.
Read More
