July 16, 2025 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
David Michael Reuss, age 36 of Herminie, passed away at home on July 15, 2025. After one year in the hospital, he came home and peacefully fell asleep in his own bed. He was preceded in death by his paternal grandmother, Martha H. Reuss. He is survived by his parents David S. and Christina Stairs Reuss, three brothers, Andrew and Sabria (Gasper), Thomas and Desiree (DeClaudio), Michael and Melaina (Brown), and the love of his life Trista (Globosky) Weiss and Dr. Leonard Weiss, paternal grandfather George F. Reuss and maternal grandparents Victor and Dolores Stairs. He will also be missed by his favorite Aunt who was always there for him, Pamela (Stairs) Kuhn and his favorite uncle George D. Reuss who would give him the world, along with many aunts, uncles, and cousins. He loved his nieces and nephews, Charlotte, August, Brooks, Eliana, Willow, and Harlow. His smile and humor would light up the room. His love for life was contagious despite some obstacles, but he overcame those. He loved his dogs, Shiloh, Vegas, Ruby, and Springs, and his three cats, especially Twinkles. He loved "Bro" night with Michael, selling and planting his flowers, gardening sunflowers, and caring for his bee hives. He did many things throughout his life, like riding on a quad, family vacations to Myrtle Beach, parasailing, rollercoasters, boat rides, WWE, NASCAR, horseback riding, hunting, fishing, having a Bud-Light Lime with Dad, skiing, calling and texting on his phone, being the center of attention, hanging out with his brothers, all-night parties after high school dances, scavenger hunts with Trista, being a best man and groomsman in weddings: Andrew, Thomas, Michael, and Best Man at Trista's wedding. You will be missed by so many, our son, you are our best friend. You are loved wholeheartedly and unconditionally. Now you can walk, run, talk, see your dogs, and most importantly, live pain free. We love you, buddy. Look down upon all of us, as we are going to need it. Your eternal light is not out, but glowing brighter and stronger every day. This is not a goodbye, just until we meet again, my son and brother. In lieu of flowers, please donate to All But Furgotten Animal Shelter in David's memory. Friends will be received at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon, on Thursday from 4 to 8 PM and Friday from 2 to 8 PM. A funeral Mass will take place in St. Edward Parish in Herminie on Saturday at 12 Noon. Interment will follow in Immaculate Conception Cemetery in Irwin. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
July 14, 2025 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Kevin George Gongaware, 61, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, on July 12, 2025, at Forbes Regional Hospital. Born April 13, 1964, in Greensburg, he was the beloved son of the late Merle Gongaware and Norma Jean (Dunn) Wisser. A 1982 graduate of Norwin Senior High School and a 1984 graduate of Ohio Technical College, Kevin recently retired from his role as a commercial HVAC technical engineer for the Department of Energy. He was a proud member of the Pittsburgh chapter of the International Union of Operating Engineers (IUOE). Kevin was a skilled mechanic who could fix just about anything. A lifelong car enthusiast and motorcycle rider, he had a special love for Harley Davidsons. In addition to his parents, Kevin was preceded in death by his brother, Merle Keith, and his stepfathers, Joseph Chervenick and Glenn Wisser. He is survived by his brother, Kris (Jill); sisters, Janis Kljun (Andrew) and Jennifer Fitzgerald (Patrick); nephews, Ben (Erica), Jacob, and Joseph; nieces, Carly and Emma; his beloved Chow Chow, Cash; and many cousins and friends. In recent years, Kevin shared a particularly close bond with his “little sister” and her family. A survivor from the start, Kevin overcame childhood leukemia and was followed for decades as a long-term study participant at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Friends will be received at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon, on Thursday from 2–4 PM and 6–8 PM. A funeral service will be held on Friday at 11 AM in the funeral home chapel, with interment to follow at Irwin Union Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Kevin’s name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
July 14, 2025 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Grace A. Busha, age 82 of North Huntingdon, passed away on July 13, 2025. She was born on June 30, 1943 in East Pittsburgh, a daughter of the late John and Theresa Palarino. Grace was a graduate of East Pittsburgh High School in the class of 1961. Prior to her retirement, she was employed by National City , PNC, and Integra banks as a bank teller. In her free time, Grace enjoyed water aerobics and she liked to go on walks. She was also known as an excellent cook. In addition to her parents, Grace was preceded in death by five sisters, Mary "Honey" Parente (husband Tom), Helen Prosdicimo (husband Greg), Nancy Rutter (husband Don), Annette Mullen (husband Lloyd), and Congetta "Dolly" Palarino. She is survived by her beloved husband David Busha, one daughter, Tina Josselyn (husband Steven), one brother, John "Sonny" Palarino (wife Jean), one sister, Angie Spadaro (husband Joe), and two granddaughters, Maria (fiancé Griffin) and Jenna (fiancé Joe). Friends will be received at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon on Wednesday from 5 PM to 8 PM. A funeral Mass will take place in St. Agnes Church on Thursday at 9:30 AM. PLEASE GO DIRECTLY TO THE CHURCH. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be given in Grace's name to the National Kidney Foundation. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
July 13, 2025 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
John H. Hilton Jr., age 80 of North Huntingdon, passed away on July 12, 2025. He was born on August 2, 1944 in Middletown, Ohio, a son of the late John Hilton Sr. and Mabel Hilton. John was a veteran of the United States Navy, having served for 11 years. Prior to his retirement, he was employed by Westinghouse as a training specialist. John always looked forward to exploring new destinations, and he made many memories while traveling the world with his wife Sherry. In addition to his parents, John was preceded in death by one brother, James Hilton. He is survived by his beloved wife Sherry Glasczko Hilton, one son Jonathan Petruska (wife Noelle), one daughter Megan Gibala (husband Ken), sisters-in-law Carole Hilton, Sandy Comiskey (husband Jim), and Carrie Lucotch (husband Mike), grandchildren Sydney, Alivia, and Jaycob Gibala, nieces Caitlin and Cori, nephew Michael, and his grandpuppy Maverik. In accordance with John's wishes, there will be no public visitation. A memorial service will be held at a later date to be announced. James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon in charge of arrangements. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
July 11, 2025 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Francine Kresicki (Serwonski), age 74 of North Huntingdon, passed away on July 10, 2025. She was born in Jeannette on June 25, 1951, a daughter of the late Joseph and Angeline (Zinna) Serwonski. Fran was a graduate of Norwin High School’s class of 1969, and she attended the teaching program at Edinboro University. She went on to fulfill a career as a secretary for the Westmoreland County Magisterial District Court. Fran was an excellent cook, she enjoyed spending time at the casino, and she always looked forward to vacationing at the beach. Most of all, Francine was an amazing mother and grandmother. She truly cherished the time she spent with her family. In addition to her parents, Francine was preceded in death by one brother, Carmelo Serwonski, brother-in-law Michael Anderson, and sister-in-law Barbara Tillery. She is survived by her devoted husband of 53 years, Anthony Kresicki, daughter Kimberly (Ian) Morrison, son Anthony (Jennifer) Kresicki, and beloved grandchildren Scott, Jacob, Aiden, Cooper, and Sophia, beloved sister Linda Anderson and brother Paul (Patricia) Serwonski. Friends will be received on Wednesday from 3 to 8 PM at the JAMES W. SHIRLEY FUNERAL HOME, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon. A Funeral Mass will be held at 10 AM on Thursday at Immaculate Conception Church in Irwin, officiated by Father John Harrold, a close family friend. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be given in Francine’s name to the American Cancer Society. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
July 09, 2025 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Donald A. Campbell, 95, passed away peacefully in his home on Monday, July 7, 2025 with his son, Tim, and daughter-in-law, Gail, by his side. Don was born in Monaca, PA on November 25, 1929. He was the son of the late George E. Campbell and Anna S. (Johnson) Campbell. He always spoke fondly of his childhood time living in Monaca. Don spent his formative years attending grade school in both McKeesport and White Oak and enjoying the carefree life of a typical American boy growing up during the depression and World War II. Throughout his teenage years, Don developed an incredible artistic talent. After graduating from McKeesport Vocational High School in 1947, he attended the Art Institute of Pittsburgh, where he earned his degree in Commercial Art in 1949. Don proudly served his country from 1951 to 1955 in the US Air Force during the Korean War, spending a large portion of his deployment stationed in Japan. Following his military service, he was employed by US Steel Duquesne Works for 30 years where he managed the stocking and distribution of spare parts for the bar mill, and for Pennex Corporation of Oakmont, retiring in 1995. As a 62-year resident of North Huntingdon, Don enjoyed a well-earned retirement. Activities with his family and long-time companion, Bernie, filled many leisurely days. He loved tinkering on cars with his son, Tim, and eating out at various local restaurants. Spending quality time with his loved ones meant everything to him. In addition to his parents, Don was preceded in death by his daughter, Victoria Campbell, his brothers Melvin and George, his sister, Ellen Jean Downes, his former wife and friend, Rita Campbell, and his long-time companion, Bernadine Lightner. He is survived by his sons, Timothy (Gail) Campbell and Christopher Campbell, grandson Evan Campbell and numerous nieces and nephews. Friends will be received at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon, on Friday, July 11, from 2 to 4 PM and 6 to 8 PM. A funeral service will take place on Saturday, July 12 at 10 AM in the funeral home chapel with interment to follow in Penn Lincoln Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Alzheimer’s Association (www.alz.org) or White Oak Animal Safe Haven. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
July 06, 2025 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Bruce David Yerecic, age 68 of North Huntingdon, passed away on July 3, 2025. He was born on December 4, 1956 in Pittsburgh, a son of the late George Yerecic and Sylvia Mrdeza Yerecic. Prior to his retirement, Bruce was employed as an educator at Bechtel-Bettis in West Mifflin. He was a member of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church, and also a member of several local sportsman's clubs. In addition to his parents, Bruce was preceded in death by his son Matthew Yerecic. He is survived by his beloved wife Marsha Weslowski Yerecic, one daughter Nicole Yerecic, one sister Roberta Welsch, and four grandchildren Emma, Trevor, Jacob, and James. There will be no public visitation. James W. Shirley Funeral Home in charge of arrangements, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
July 04, 2025 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Wilfred (Butch) Patrick Wichelmann, age 82 of North Huntingdon, passed away on July 3, 2025, at UMPC East. He was born on March 1, 1943, in Homestead, PA. a son of the late Wilfred and Cecelia Donnelly Wichelmann. Wilfred was a member of the Immaculate Conception Church in Irwin. Prior to his retirement, he was employed on the assembly line for General Motors. He enjoyed camping, fishing, hunting, socializing with friends at the Shafton Firehall, and spending time with his daughters and grandchildren. He was a graduate of Norwin High School in 1961. He is survived by his wife, Charlotte Parker Wichelmann, loving daughters Kim Kintigh (Richard) and Jennifer Grottenthaler (Richard Scherff). two sisters, Elizabeth Wichelmann, Ruthann Valimont (Edward), grandchildren, Nicole Stalvey (Chris), Ashley Kintigh (Justin), Hayley Kintigh, Brionna Wichelmann, Nathaniel and Brandon Grottenthaler, Savannah Bashioum, and great-grandchildren Reed, Levi and Cameron. There will be no public visitation. Services will be private. James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon in charge of arrangements. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
July 04, 2025 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Danielle L. McCann (Wilson), age 53 of North Huntingdon passed away July 3, 2025, at her home surrounded by her family after a courageous battle of 13 years with MSBC. She was born December 15, 1971 in McKeesport, a daughter of Daniel Wilson (Norma) and Nancie Muro (Nicholas). Danielle was a member of Norwin Christian Church. She graduated from Norwin High School class of 1989 where she was cheerleading captain for the 88-89 school year and also the Secretary of the Spanish Club. Danielle graduated the University of Pittsburgh Johnstown Campus in 1993 with a bachelor’s in psychology and was a member of the Delta Zeta Sorority. She had then worked at Adelphi Village in Latrobe which is where she met her then supervisor Jennifer DiVittis turned best friend, and after over a decade of CYS work Danielle attained her Master's in Education from Duquesne University. Danielle was then an intern at Franklin Regional High School. Her first day was 9/11/2001, the following school year she was employed and remained for 20 years as a School Counselor, until she regretfully had to retire due to her 9-year battle with breast cancer. She had worked with children for over 35 years. Her work family became her second family. The children’s lives that she had been honored to work with were like family to her. Danielle enjoyed shopping with Nancie (Ma), as well as having stomach hurting breath taking laughing moments all of the time when they were together. Danielle and her father Daniel (Papa Smurf) had a bond stronger than most fathers and daughters share. Danielle was known as Snow White due to her love of animals. Her boys Vinnie, Luca, Daniel, and Bo will miss their mother very much. Over the 32 years Danni and Eric have been together they’ve rescued over 6 dogs and 4 cats and 1 rabbit. In addition to her parents, she is survived by her husband of over 26 years Eric T McCann, brother Nicko (bites all)Wilson (Emily) ,in-laws Rev. John Pressler (Suzanne), brother-in-law John McCann (Kristen), Sister-in-law Julia Pressler (Mike), step siblings Harry Castine (Amanda), Bryan Castine (Carey), Mellisa Weller(Bryan) as well as many aunts and uncles, cousins, relatives and friends. The service will be officiated by the Rev. Brenda Barnes. Friends will be received on Monday July 7, 2025 from 2 to 8 p.m. at the JAMES W. SHIRLEY FUNERAL HOME, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon. A service will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday in the funeral home chapel. Interment will follow at Union Cemetery in Irwin. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be given to the pet charity of your choice. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
July 04, 2025 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
John R. Malley, age 87 of North Huntingdon, passed away on July 2, 2025. He was born on November 22, 1937 in Braddock, a son of the late John and Susan Malley. John was a veteran of the United States Air Force and a member of Grace Baptist Church in Greensburg. Prior to his retirement, he was employed in the research and development department at Westinghouse. In his free time, John loved to care for his garden. In addition to his parents, John was preceded in death by numerous brothers and sisters. He is survived by his beloved wife Patsy Ratliff, three sons John Malley (wife Mary), Jeffrey Malley (wife Pam), and Jason Malley, one daughter Lisa Patella (husband John), grandchildren Morgan, Merrick, Jeff Jr., Justin, Jessica, Anthony, and Nicholas, and four great-grandchildren Santino, Luca, Gia, and Roman. Friends will be received at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon on Thursday, July 10, from 11 AM to 1 PM with a service at 1 PM. Interment will follow in Penn Lincoln Cemetery. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
July 03, 2025 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
George M. Burtner, age 60 of North Huntingdon, passed away on July 3, 2025. He was born on January 31, 1965 in Braddock, a son of George W. Burtner and the late Carol Ann Miller Burtner. George was a veteran of the United States Army and he was employed as a probation officer for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. In his free time, he liked to hunt, fish, and ride his Harley Davidson motorcycle. George is survived by his son Michael Burtner, sister Lori Powell (husband Jonathon), niece & goddaughter Juliann Baker (husband Daniel), great nieces and nephews Daniel, Maddison, Slate, and Roc, and his longtime friend Tracine Benvin-Poti. There will be no public visitation. James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon in charge of arrangements. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
July 01, 2025 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Mabette Wilson, age 91, of North Huntingdon died June 25, 2025 at UPMC East. She was born September 18,1933 in Larimer, Pa., a daughter of the late Edward and Irene Koelsch Berchtold. Prior to her retirement, Mabette was employed as a secretary for both Norwin High School and Sixth Street School. She was preceded in death by her husband, Ralph Wilson in 2002, two sons, William E. Doernte and Dean Doernte, a brother, Edward F. Berchtold Jr., a sister Rita Conway. She is survived by one son Karl Lee Doertne, a daughter, Debra Mansfield numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren. There will be no public services.
July 01, 2025 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Chester Sliwoski, age 83 of North Huntingdon died June 30, 2025, at UPMC East. He was born May 13, 1942, in Export, Pa a son of the late Chester and Stella Halluck Sliwoski. Chester was a member of St. Agnes Church, North Huntingdon. Prior to his retirement, he was employed as a factory worker in the field of manufacturing. He enjoyed grilling and cooking up his special barbeque sauce. Chester enjoyed spending time with his family most especially around holidays. He is survived by his beloved wife, Patricia Zaberl Sliwoski, his daughter Stacie Sliwoski, two sisters in laws Agnes and Bonnie, several nieces and nephews. Friends will be received at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon, Pa on Thursday from 10-11 a.m. at which time a blessing will be held in the funeral home chapel at 11 a.m. Interment will be private in Westmoreland Memorial Park. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com.
June 28, 2025 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
The light in this world dimmed significantly for the Warden family on Saturday morning upon the passing of our beloved Mother/Meemaw/Gigi. Donna Ann Slack Warden, 88, from North Huntingdon, passed away on the morning of June 28, 2025 after suffering a debilitating stroke. She may not have ever won a trophy, or earned a fortune, or scaled a mountain but she showed us how to make the most of a life through her steadfastness, resilience, acceptance and love. And though she enjoyed playing bingo, Words with Friends, reading and sports, her devotion and energy was always to her family. Donna was a long-standing member of St. Agnes Church, and she served the community for several decades as a real estate agent for Norwin Agency. Preceding her in death are her husband of 69 years, Jon, an infant daughter Dawn Ann, four siblings, and a grandson, Alex Krivoniak. Surviving are her sister Marg Buck, her three children: Neal (Margie), Diane (Dan) Krivoniak, Al (Chris), Seven grandchildren: Lelia Warden, Martine (John) Krugh, Landon Warden, Shane Warden, Crista Krivoniak, Tyler (Jenny) Warden and Alexa Krivoniak, and five great-grandchildren Brynna, Lennon, Vance, Virginia and Sadie. A celebration of her life will be held on Tuesday July 1, 2025 with a viewing from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. at the JAMES W. SHIRLEY FUNERAL HOME, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon. A funeral mass will take place at 10 a.m. on Wednesday at St Agnes Church, Clay Pike, North Huntingdon, PA. Interment will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery in North Versailles. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be given in Donna’s name to the American Stroke Association. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
June 23, 2025 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
John R. Plantan, age 80 of Rillton, passed away on June 22, 2025. He was born on September 10, 1944 in Pittsburgh, a son of the late John and Anna Plantan. John was a veteran of the United States Army having served in the Vietnam War. He went on to become a Field Services Manager for U.S. Steel with over 35 years of employment. John was also a self-employed contractor and owner of Plantan & Sons Construction. In his free time, John looked forward to trips to the casino, and he was always looking for something to fix around the house. In addition to his parents, John was preceded in death by his two wives Donna Plantan and Mary Plantan, and his son John Plantan. He is survived by his fiancée Darlene Harper, one son Tom Plantan, one step-son Fred Hohman (wife Lucette), two step-daughters Susan Lehr (husband Mark), and Mary Holt (husband Jim), one sister Virginia Stahl, 7 grandchildren, and 8 great-grandchildren. Friends will be received at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon, on Wednesday from 3-7 PM. A funeral service will be held in the funeral home chapel on Thursday at 11 AM with interment to follow in Good Shepherd Cemetery in Monroeville. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be given in John's name to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASCPA). www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
