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James T. Lord

February 23, 2023 |

By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home

James T. Lord, 94 of North Versailles died February 23, 2023 at Walden's View, North Huntingdon. He was born June 16, 1928 in Buena Vista, Pa., a son of the late William and Susana Heholt Lord. Jim was a member of Miller United Methodist Church where he served as a trustee. Prior to his retirement, he was employed by U.S. Steel , National Tube Works. He enjoyed crafts, fishing and was a veteran of the United States Navy. He was preceded in death by his wife Phyliss, a brother, William Lord, and a sister Alfertia Koyp. He is survived by a nephew Paul Koyp. Visitation will take place Sunday at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon on Sunday 11a.m. -1 p.m. with a service to follow at 1:00 p.m. in the funeral home chapel. Interment Monday at 9 a.m. at the Mt Vernon Cemetery. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com.

 

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Theodore J. Marefka

February 18, 2023 |

By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home

Theodore J. Marefka, age 87 of North Huntingdon died February 17, 2023, at Excela Health Westmoreland. He was born March 30, 1935, in Claridge, Pa. Theodore retired from Westinghouse Electric where he was employed as a draftsman. He later worked for EME (Electrical Mechanical Engineering). He enjoyed trips to both Deep Creek and Gettysburg and enjoyed attending the city of Pittsburgh events. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army. Theodore was President of the Blue Room in Claridge, enjoyed fishing with his friend Jerry, an avid Steeler fan and golfed in various area leagues. He was preceded in death by his first wife Dorothy Marefka who was originally from Level Green, and one brother John. He is survived by his wife, Barbara Dufalla Marefka, his daughter, Nicole Marefka, a brother Robert and his wife Roberta and many cousins. Friends will be received at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon on Wednesday 2-4-,6-8 p.m. A blessing service will be held Thursday in the funeral home chapel at 10 a.m. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com.

 

 

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Joan M. Brinkman

February 15, 2023 |

By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home

Joan M. Brinkman
, age 97 of North Huntingdon formerly of McKeesport died February 15, 2023. She was born December 8, 1925 in West Mifflin, a daughter of the late John and Margaret Woodspingwater Burns. Joan was a self employed beautician. She was a member of St. Pius Church in McKeesport and the Christian Mothers. She was an avid card player belonging to various card clubs, enjoyed scrabble,and  puzzles. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband Ralph L. in 1996, 7 brothers, Raymond, Francis, Robert, Paul, James, John and Lawrence Burns, two sisters, Edna Noll, Dorothy Lutsko Evans. She is survived by one son, Ralph J. (Janet), two daughters, Mary Ann Schall (Mark), Eileen Bacco (Louis), 5 grandchildren, Brandon Schall (Maggie), Alexis Schall, Lindsay Maurer (Ryan), Derek and Tyler Bacco. Visitation and services will be private at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon. Interment will take place in Jefferson Memorial Park. Memorials may be made to St. Jude or Pittsburgh Children's hospital.  www.shirleyfuneralhome.com.

 

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Robert Martin Clark

February 15, 2023 |

By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home

Robert Martin Clark, age 72 of Irwin died February 15, 2023 at Forbes Hospital , Monroeville. He was born October 31, 1950 in Bethlehem, Pa., a son of the late Thomas and Rita Connors Clark. Robert was a member of St. Edward Parish in Herminie. He graduated high school from Bethlehem Central Catholic and was a graduate of St. Francis de Sales College.  He was a retired two star Admiral having served with the U.S. Navy. Rear Adm. Clark holds all Surface Warfare qualifications up to and including Command at Sea. His personal awards include two presidential unit citations, the Legion of Merit,  Meritorious  Service Medal, six Navy Commendation Medals, Meritorious Unit Commendation, two Battle Efficiency "E", National Defense with bronze star, three Sea Service, six Overseas Services, Armed Forces Reserve with "M" and silver hourglass, and Expert Pistol with silver "E". In his civilian occupation, Rear Adm. Clark is President of BC. Inc, a global electric  power industry consultant company (nuclear/fossil) engaged in addressing technical, operational and market issues in the U.S. and overseas as the impact of deregulation and privatization  drive dramatic changes. He was focused on electric power utilities and the energizing markets in Central/Eastern Europe. He sat on the Board of Directors for several domestic/international companies.  In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Eugene and a sister Margaret Mahon. He is survived by his beloved wife Karen Pettus Clark, three sons, Leif (Amy), Lance (Candace), Logan (Heather), two brothers, Thomas (Cathy), Jack (Lois) , grandchildren, Seth, Vaughn, Dymphena, Darien, Dreena, Dacey Mae, Tressa , Aubrey, and Izabella. Friends will be received at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon, Pa on Sat 6-8 PM, Sunday 2-4 & 6-8 PM. A funeral mass will be held on Monday 10 AM at St. Edwards Church in Herminie followed by interment in Irwin Union Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Westmoreland County Food Bank, All But Fur-gotten Animal Shelter, or ASPCA.. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
 

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Franklyn L. Farrell

February 13, 2023 |

By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home

Franklyn L. Farrell, age 86 of North Huntingdon died February 11, 2023. He was born January 16, 1937 in California, Pa. , a son of the late Francis and Olive Hornbake Farrell. Prior to his retirement Frank was employed as the manager for Columbia Gas System. After retiring, he served as the manager for the propane division for Valley National Gases. Frank was a retired Veteran of the U.S. Army having served as a Major during the Vietnam War. He was a member of the Free and Accepted Masons , Irwin Shidle Lodge 601. Scottish Rite Valley of Pittsburgh, 32nd degree Mason, Syria Shrine of Cheswick, Pa, He was a past president and life member of the Corvette Club of Western Pennsylvania. He was a 10 year volunteer and member of the operative staff for the Vintage Grand Prix. He is survived by his beloved wife Patty Zavage Farrell for 33 years, stepdaughter, Michaeline Quintana, granddaughter, Hannah Quintana and one brother Mark O. Farrell. A memorial service will be held Sunday, February 19 at 1:00 p.m. at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon. Private interment will take place at the National Cemetery of the Alleghenies. Memorials may be made to a Masonic charity of your choice. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com.

 

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Mildred J. "Midge" Boldy

February 04, 2023 |

By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home

Mildred J. "Midge" Boldy, 90, of Irwin, passed away peacefully Saturday, February 4, 2023 at Excela Health Westmoreland Hospital. She was born September 26, 1932, a daughter of the late Howard W. and Mildred F. (Crouse) Allen. Mildred was a homemaker and a member of Word of Life Church, Greensburg. She loved the Lord, studying His word, and remembering it in her heart.  She loved her family and especially loved her grandchildren and great-grandchildren who always made her smile.  Her memory will be held close to our hearts and her legacy will be remembered by the family who loved her so very much.  In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, Wrenwick Allen; sisters, Betty Paige, June Yater, Leona Mull and Irene Davis. She is survived by her loving husband for over 70 years, William Boldy; son, William Jr.; daughters, Deb Vozel and her husband, Jacob, Beth Mignogna and her husband Vincent; brother, Joe Allen; sisters, Sarah Mull, Thelma Allen, Mary Moss, Casey Allen and Ruth Allen; grandchildren, Meghan (Edward) Schmutz, Heather (Gregg) Cavaliere, Holly (Brad) Lentz, Lucas Mignogna, Evan (Kelly) Mignogna; great-grandchildren, Ella, Maddie, Jude, Cash, Jett, Nolan, Bree, Sadie, Riley and Elliana. Sisters-in-law Cecelia Maier and Henrietta (Fran) Popyack. Friends will be received from 3-7 p.m. Wednesday at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon, PA 15642. A funeral service will take place on Thursday at 11 a.m. in the funeral home chapel. Interment to follow in Westmoreland Memorial Park, Greensburg. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Word of Life Ministries, Greensburg, PA. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com

 

 

| James W. Shirley Funeral Home

Carolyn Bell Zgonc

February 01, 2023 |

By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home

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Carolyn Bell Zgonc, 75, of Manor passed away Tuesday, January 31, 2023 at home. She was born March 28, 1947 in Pittsburgh, a daughter of Betty Bell and the late Robert Bell. Prior to her retirement, Carolyn was an administrative assistant in the mental health field and was a member of First United Methodist Church. She enjoyed reading, oil painting, puzzles, music, animals and learning to speak Italian. She is survived by her son, Christopher Gorman; brothers, Tom (Kathleen) Bell, Larry Bell (Sharon); and sister, Debbie (Robert) Kovaloski. There will be no visitation. A celebration of life will be held at 10 a.m.  Saturday, February 18, 2023 at the First United Methodist Church of Manor. Arrangements made by the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon, PA 15642. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com

 

| James W. Shirley Funeral Home

Norman Gregory

January 31, 2023 |

By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home

Norman Gregory, 93, of North Versailles, formerly of Rhode Island, passed away Monday, January 30, 2023 at UPMC East.  He was born July 17, 1929 in Providence, RI, a son of the late Marino and Mary Gregory.  Prior to his retirement, Norman was a music teacher and a musician.  He was a veteran of the US Army having served during the Korean War Era.  He was chosen for an honor flight and had  the honor of placing a wreath on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.  He was a 2 year track star for North Providence High School, enjoyed skiing and going to the gym.  He is survived by his loving wife, Gladys (Leonard) Gregory; son, Norman Gregory and his wife, Nancy; daughter, Susan Puro and her husband, Nathan; grandchildren, Tara (John) McCormick, Jacob (Jenny) Gregory, Elise Gregory, Noah Gregory; great-grandchildren, Ariella and Miriam McCormick, Shiloh and Parker Gregory.  Friends will be received from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Friday at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon, PA  15642.  A funeral service will follow at 1 p.m. in the funeral home chapel.  Interment to follow in Irwin Union Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com

 

| James W. Shirley Funeral Home

Philomena Noll

January 31, 2023 |

By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home

Philomena Noll, 90, of North Huntingdon, passed away peacefully Monday, January 30, 2023.  She was born August 9, 1932 in Homestead, a daughter of the late Michael and Rose Rizzo. Philomena was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, daughter and sister.  She loved her family and enjoyed the company of the people closest to her more than anything.  Prior to becoming a mother, she worked as a secretary to the principal of Calhoun Jr. High School and later as a switchboard operator for Bell Telephone.  Philomena was a devout Catholic and a member of St. Agnes Parish.  She loved the time she spent at church and was a dedicated member of the Christian Mothers and Legion of Mary.  In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husbands, James Duffy and Thomas Noll, sister, Rose Rizzo, daughter-in-law, Marie Noll, son-in-law, Joel Mance and great-grandson, Thomas P. Noll Jr.  She is survived by her  daughter, Diane Mance; sons, Thomas Noll (fiancee, Jacqueline Czarnecki) Robert Noll (Andrea), Marty Duffy (Lisa), James Duffy (Peggy), Patrick Noll (Carol); loving sisters, Josephine Stevens, Anna Mae Magnes and Rose Burris; 15 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.  Friends will be received from 2-8 p.m. Thursday at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon, PA  15642.  A Mass of Christian Burial will take place Friday at 10 a.m. in St. Agnes Church.  Interment to follow in St. Mary Magdalene Cemetery, Munhall.  The family would like to acknowledge the loving care she received from the staff at Weatherwood Manor in Greensburg and Excela Hospice.  www.shirleyfuneralhome.com

 

| James W. Shirley Funeral Home

Gregory S. Germuska

January 28, 2023 |

By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home

Gregory S. Germuska, 62, of North Huntingdon, passed away Friday, January 27, 2023 at Forbes Regional Hospital.  He was born October 20, 1960 in McKeesport, a son of Donald Germuska and the late MaryAnn (Kosanovic) Germuska.  Greg was a beverage specialist for US Foods and a member of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church and attended Miller United Methodist Church with his wife. He was a graduate of Norwin Sr. High School Class of '78 and California University of PA.  He enjoyed hunting, cutting grass and spending time with his family and pets.  He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Beth (Kennedy) Germuska; daughters, Megan Connelly and her husband, Brian, Kami DiazBucio and her husband, Misael; brothers, Dan (Kim), Dane (Shani), Jeff (Michelle); grandchildren, Aiden, Kailyn, Tristen, Gavin Connelly, Nathen and Kasen DiazBucio; and numerous nieces and nephews.  Friends will be received from 4-8 p.m. Thursday at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon, PA  15642.  A Mass will be celebrated on Friday at 9:30 a.m. in St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church.  PLEASE GO DIRECTLY TO THE CHURCH. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Miller United Methodist Church, Brighton Township Bears or Beaver Bobcats.   www.shirleyfuneralhome.com

 

| James W. Shirley Funeral Home

Alice L. Ivkovich

January 27, 2023 |

By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home

Alice L. Ivkovich, 93, of North Huntingdon, passed away Friday, January 27, 2023 at LGAR Health and Rehabilitation.  She was born October 28, 1929 in Jeannette, a daughter of the late Archie and Anna May(Deithorn) Mullaert.  Prior to her retirement, Alice was a distributor for Standard Observer Newspaper and later a merchandiser for American Greeting Cards.  Alice also worked alongside her husband Nick as a photographer's assistant and together they captured many local weddings.  She was a member of St. Agnes Parish and the Emerald Club, and enjoyed playing cards in various card clubs and spending the winters in Florida.  In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Nicholas Ivkovich, brother, Archie Mullaert and daughter-in-law, Maureen.  She is survived by her children, Philip and his wife, Laura, Paul and his wife, Fran, Mark, Amy McCabe and her husband, Tim; grandchildren, Amy (Philip), Cara (Erik), Philip (Sarah), William, Timothy; great-grandchildren, Kasey, Joseph, Peyton, Paige, Bryce and Indy.  Friends will be received from 2-4 & 6-8 p.m. on Monday at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon, PA  15642.  A Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Tuesday at 10 a.m. in St. Agnes Church.  Entombment to follow in Penn Lincoln Memorial Park.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the St. Agnes Emerald Club or LGAR Health & Rehabilitation.  www.shirleyfuneralhome.com

 

| James W. Shirley Funeral Home

Ralph J. Winkler

January 20, 2023 |

By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home

Ralph J. Winkler, 75, of Irwin, passed away Friday, January 20, 2023.  He was born January 28, 1947 in McKeesport, a son of the late Donald and Helen Winkler.  Prior to his retirement, Ralph was a foundry worker for WABCO and a veteran of the US Army having served during the Vietnam War era.  He enjoyed being in the outdoors hunting and fishing, visiting casinos, playing the lottery and cards, and especially loved being a granddad.  In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Darlene Winkler; brothers, David and Donald.  He is survived by his son, Steve; daughters, Deann Hays, Darcy Peer and her husband, Dennis; sister, Susan; grandchildren, Christopher, Collin, Michael, Kari, Kylee, Annabelle; and great-granddaughter, Alexis.  Friends will be received from 2-6 p.m. on Monday at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon, PA  15642.  Funeral service to follow at 6 p.m.  www.shirleyfuneralhome.com

 

| James W. Shirley Funeral Home

Edward W. “Butch” Bechtold

January 12, 2023 |

By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home

Edward W. “Butch” Bechtold, 72, of North Huntingdon, passed away Wednesday, January 11, 2023 at UPMC East Hospital. He was born January 9, 1950 in Pittsburgh. Prior to his retirement, Edward was fire chief and dispatcher for the Edgewood Fire Department and a veteran of the US Army having served during the Vietnam Era. He was a member of the Norwin Elks and enjoyed fishing, attending oldies concerts, dressing up as Santa for the disabled children and spending time with his grandchildren. He is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Linda (Moran) Bechtold; daughters, Amy Hileman and her husband, Michael, Kristy Champion (Jason Cheripka); grandchildren, Brennan, Ryan, Karsyn and Reegan. Visitation will be held on Monday from 1-3 PM with a service to follow at 3 PM. Arrangements made by the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon, PA 15642. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com

 

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James Frank Ridgeway Jr.

January 12, 2023 |

By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home

James Frank Ridgeway Jr., 88, of St. Petersburg, Florida, formerly of North Huntingdon, passed away Tuesday, January 10, 2023. He was born April 15, 1934 in Pittsburgh, a son of the late James and Ruth (Eicher) Ridgeway. Prior to his retirement, Frank was a mechanical engineer for Westinghouse Bettis. He graduated from the University of Pittsburgh and was a member of Sylvania Hills Baptist Church. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, canoeing, white water rafting, shooting at the range, leather working and spending time with his family. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Sandra Ridgeway. He is survived by his sons, Scott and his wife, Collette, Brett and his wife, Kimberly; daughter, Karen Johnson and her husband, Tim; grandchildren, Jeremy (Crissy) Olson, Karisa (Frank) Jackson, Priscilla Johnson; great-grandchildren, Alina, Kylie, Haley, Raelyn, Elliott, Adeline and Sienna. Frank exemplified Christ and through his life drew others to our Lord and Savior. He will be in our hearts until the day we are all united once again in heaven. Friends will be received from 3-6 p.m. on Friday, January 20, 2023 at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon, PA 15642. A funeral service will follow at 6 p.m. in the funeral home chapel. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Sylvania Hills Baptist Church, 567 Pittsburgh Road, Rochester, PA 15074. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com

 

| James W. Shirley Funeral Home

Alice Smith Rinkacs

January 11, 2023 |

By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home

Alice Smith Rinkacs, 92, of North Huntingdon formerly of White Oak, passed away Tuesday, January 10, 2023 in Excela Health Westmoreland Hospital.  She was born August 24, 1930 in McKeesport, a daughter of the late Joseph and Anna Ciborowski.  Prior to her retirement, Alice worked as a teller for PNC Bank and was the owner / operator of Smitty's Restaurant in Boston, PA. She was an avid seamstress and enjoyed riding bikes, swimming, vacationing at the beach and Disney World, listening to music, dancing, crafting and her canine companions.  In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Denis; son, John Gerald Smith Jr., and sister, Dorothy Balog.  She is survived by her grandchildren, Kelly Poppell, Shelley Simonazzi, Brian Smith, Brandon Smith, Zak Smith, Alexander Smith; sisters, Joann Wanat and Patricia Lennon; numerous great-grandchildren; and Rinkacs children, Bill, Denny, Chris, John, Tom and David and numerous grandchildren.  Friends will be received from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. on Thursday at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon, PA  15642. A funeral service will follow at 1:15 p.m. in the funeral home chapel.  Interment in St. Joseph Cemetery, North Versailles, PA.  The family would like to thank Westmoreland Manor for the compassionate care they gave to Alice.  www.shirleyfuneralhome.com

 

| James W. Shirley Funeral Home