June 14, 2024 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Marjorie Provan Matievich, 95, of White Oak died June 13, 2024 . She was born April 2, 1929 in McKeesport, Pa., a daughter of the late Donald and Margaret Bell. Marjorie was a 1947 graduate and valedictorian of Wilmerding High School .She was awarded a full scholarship to the University of Pittsburgh and graduated in 1951 with a degree in education later being employed by West Wilmerding / North Versailles Township as a first grade teacher. She later gave up her career to become a full time homemaker raising her four children. Her hobbies included conservative politics, reading, gourmet cooking, sewing. Marjorie's purpose in life was dedicated to her unshakable faith in her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. She was a tireless educator for Christian values. As a mother , grandmother and wife she was a constant inspiration of loving kindness. She is forever loved.
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June 14, 2024 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Janel (Perretta) Lavorini, 58, of North Huntingdon, Pa., formerly of New Brighton, passed away Monday, June 3, 2024.
Born September 28, 1965, in Rochester. She is the daughter of Joan (Treglia) Perretta Clark. She was a proud graduate of New Brighton High School, Class of 1983. It was during these formative years that her passion for visual communication and graphic design began to bloom. Fueling her artistic ambitions, she continued her education at the Art Institute in Pittsburgh, where she honed her craft and earned her degree in Visual Communications-Graphic Design. Driven by a desire to share her expertise and ignite the same passion in others, Janel furthered her studies at Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP), obtaining a Vocational Technical Education Degree for teaching.
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June 03, 2024 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
John A. Varrati, age 81 of North Huntingdon, passed away on Sunday, June 2, 2024 at Forbes Hospital. He was born on November 9, 1942 in Oakland, a son of the late John and Antoinette Pirella Varrati. Prior to his retirement, John was employed as a Heavy Highway Laborer for Union 1058. In his free time, he enjoyed working on crossword puzzles and loved to watch old western movies. In addition to his parents, John was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Shirley Griffith Varrati, son William Cook, sister Claudette Varrati, and his brother James Varrati. He is survived by his sons, James Cook, John Varrati (Tammy), Sean Varrati (Julie), daughters Patricia Varrati (Trent) and Kathy Osborne (Dan), his brother Joseph Varrati, six grandchildren, Kayla, Jimmy, Brandon, Meghan, Bailey, and Paige, and four great-grandchildren, Jesse, Colton, Easton, and Kyrece. A memorial service will take place on a date to be announced. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to a pet charity of your choice. James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon PA in charge of arrangements. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
June 02, 2024 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Frank E. Johnson IV, 50 of Adamsburg, died June 1, 2024 at Allegheny General Hospital. He was born December 11, 1973 in Jeannette, a son of the late Frank E. Johnson III and Carolyn “Nazz” Wertz Johnson. He was a Norwin High School graduate Class of 1992, and worked as the manager of shipping and receiving for Extrude Hone. He loved all levels of football, especially the University of Michigan and the Detroit Lions, and was a member of a Southwest Bowling League of Main Bowling Center Greensburg. He is survived by his wife Maria Byzon Johnson; daughter Natalie (Alex) Impink; son Aaron; grandchildren, Karsyn, Ayla, and Nolan; and sister Pam (Kary) Yurcisin. Visitation will be Wednesday 2-4 & 6-8 PM at James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon. A funeral service will be held Thursday 11 AM at the funeral home chapel. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com.
May 28, 2024 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Linda Anne Watkoski, 78, of North Huntingdon, passed away peacefully at Newhaven Court at Linwood on Sunday, May 26, 2024. Linda is now at a place where she can once again remember the amazing, loving, and caring wife, mother, grandmother, and friend that she was to all of us.
Linda was born on July 2, 1945 in Reno, Pennsylvania. Linda is survived by her loving husband of 56 years, Joseph Watkoski; daughters Ann (Wes) Mayles and Kate (Dan Driggers) Watkoski; grandson Alex Mayles; and numerous brothers in-law, sisters in-law, nieces, and nephews. She is preceded in death by her parents Francis “Hike” McGarry and Evelyn McGarry, and her brother Daniel McGarry.
Linda was a 1967 graduate of Indiana University of Pennsylvania and later received her Master of Education at the University of Pittsburgh. She was a passionate and dedicated teacher at Norwin School District for over 30 years and served many roles including high school business teacher, FBLA advisor, and third grade teacher. She had a great love for nature and animals. Most importantly, she was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend who will be forever remembered for her loving, patient, and selfless nature toward everyone.
At Linda’s request, there will be no public visitation. In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory can be made to Bridges Hospice (bridgeshospice.org) or the Alzheimer’s Association (alz.org). James W. Shirley Funeral Home, Inc., 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon is assisting with arrangements. shirleyfuneralhome.com
May 27, 2024 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Arnold S. Kastronis, 92 of North Huntingdon died May 26, 2024 at Canterbury Place in Pittsburgh. He was born June 5, 1931 in McKeesport a son of the late Steven and Johanna Mazor Kastronis. Prior to his retirement, he was employed as a steelworker for US Steel and Camp Hill. He was an avid deer hunter and hard working man who enjoyed spending time with his children and grandchildren. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife Loretta, brother John, and sister Josephine Prest. He is survived by son Arnold (Martha); daughter JoAnn (Mark) Timm; grandchildren Alicia (Brian) Rinkes, Ian Kastronis, Rene Wenner (Don Lee), and Brian Timm (Erin); great grandchildren Aubrey, Emilia, Jaelyn, Donovan, Bailey, Jacob, and Stella; and brothers Vince, Steve, and Chris Kastronis. There will be no public visitation. James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike in charge of arrangements. A memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Make A Wish Foundation. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com.
May 26, 2024 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Joseph Rusinko, age 78 of North Huntingdon passed away May 25, 2024 at Redstone Highlands, North Huntingdon with his family by his side. He was born November 7, 1945 in McKeesport, a son of the late John and Anna (Bohanic) Rusinko. Joe was a member of St. Stephen's Byzantine Catholic Church. He was very proud of his Slovak heritage. He was an avid reader as evident by the library of books he amassed. Prior to his retirement, he was employed as a teacher for McKeesport Area High School for 30 years where he started computer science classes and distance learning through Pitt. Joseph earned a Bachelor's Degree in Education from Penn State and a Master's Degree from Pitt. He was also the past owner and founder of WESTPA Tax Preparation and Accounting Service. He was a past member of the Greater Pittsburgh and Central Pittsburgh duckpin bowling leagues. He was known for the countless afghans and blankets he crocheted as gifts. He was preceded in death by his wife Maria (Bajcura) Rusinko in 2017 and brother John Rusinko. He is survived by his two children in which he took great pride; a son, Joseph V. Rusinko and his wife Lauren, and daughter, Jennifer M. Garvin and her husband Robert. He was the proud Dzedo of his 3 grandchildren Hannah Rusinko and Katarina and Samantha Garvin. He was their number one fan and took great pride in all of their accomplishments. In addition, he is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, and family in Slovakia. Friends will be received at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon on Wednesday from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. A Parastas service will be held Wednesday at 7 p.m. in the funeral home. A Funeral Liturgy will be held on Thursday 10 a.m. at St. Stephen's Byzantine Catholic Church. Interment will take place at Penn Lincoln Memorial Park. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com.
May 24, 2024 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
It is with great sadness that we share the passing of our beloved father Philip Cristina who left us on May 24, 2024 at the age of 98. His absence leaves a void in our hearts. He proudly served his country in the US Army during World War II. After the war he married the love of his life Rose. They were married for 63 years before her death 15 years ago. He visited her 5 days a week at the cemetery always making sure she had a beautiful vase of flowers. Philip was a member of Elizabeth Ann Seton Church, a trustee with the Teamsters Local 30, AARP and American Legion. He began his career as a truck driver working for Helm’s Motor Freight and Rider Trucking Company. Preceded in death by his wife Rose, daughter Pauline Phillips and infant granddaughter Elizabeth Reynolds. Survived by his three daughters Marie (William) Breeger Sr., Elvira Reynolds and Roseann (Marco) Faulisi Jr., 10 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren and 3 great-great grandchildren. In accordance with our father’s wishes there will be no public visitation. Private interment will be at Penn Lincoln Memorial Park. Funeral arrangements will be handled by James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon. Our family would like to express appreciation to all the staff at Transitions Healthcare North Huntingdon. The comfort and personal care provided was exceptional. To all his dear friends and the entire staff at Bob Evans restaurant in North Huntingdon, he loved you all like family. Heartland Hospice, you were right by his side until the end. Dad, we will always carry your memory deep in our hearts knowing you’re now in heaven with our dear mother. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
May 23, 2024 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Shaun David Kelly, age 46, of Greensburg, passed away on Wednesday, May 22, 2024 at his home. He was born in Jeannette on November 23, 1977, a son of the late David W. and Sharon L. Brown Kelly. He was a graduate of Hempfield high school, and was employed as a carpenter for Local 432 Pittsburgh. Shaun enjoyed riding his Harley Davidson motorcycle, fishing, hunting, lifting weights, and practicing jiu jitsu. He is survived by many aunts, uncles, and cousins, and his Doberman Harley. A memorial service will be held at a later date at a time to be announced. James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon PA in charge of arrangements. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
May 22, 2024 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Harry J. Colbert, age 76 of Irwin, passed away on Wednesday, May 22, 2024 at Allegheny General Hospital. He was born on February 5, 1948 in Braddock, a son of the late Earl and Anna Mary Colbert. In addition to his parents, Harry was preceded in death by his brother, Nicky Colbert. He is survived by his twin brother, Earl Colbert, sister, Linda Novak (Ed), and numerous neices and nephews. Harry always brought a smile to the faces of those around him. He loved to work on arts and crafts, and was very proud of the items that he created. After finishing his daily projects, Harry looked forward to sipping a hot cup of coffee while listening to the radio. He was always excited to tell his friends and family about his favorite wrist-watch. Harry will be missed by all who knew him. Friends will be received at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon PA on Friday from 9-10A.M. follwed by interment at Restland Cemetery, Monroeville. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
May 22, 2024 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Michael P. McGrail, 61 of North Huntingdon died May 20, 2024 at Corner view Nursing and Rehab in Pittsburgh. He was born June 25, 1962 in McKeesport, a son of the late Michael P. Sr. and Audrey Labosky McGrail. Michael was formerly employed by Stone & Company where he drove a cement truck. He graduated from Greensburg Central Catholic in 1980, was a member of Circleville Volunteer Fire Department, an avid Penguins and Steeler fan, enjoyed building, and racing RC cars. He will be reunited with his love and wife, Rosemary who died in 2014. He is survived by his daughter, Allison of North Huntingdon, two brothers, Mark McGrail and wife Jeri, Eric McGrail and wife Jackie, 2 nieces, Serena and Katherine, one nephew Devin. There will be no public visitation. A celebration of life will be held on June 23, 2024 at Oak Hollow Park Hickory Pavilion from 1-4 P.M. James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon in charge of arrangements. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com.
May 21, 2024 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Darien M. Clark, age 27, residing in Beaver Falls and formerly of North Huntingdon, passed away on Sunday, May 19, 2024 at Forbes Hospital. He was born on August 3, 1996 in Monroeville, the beloved son of Lance (Candace) Clark and Jacinta Beltz (Jay). Darien was a graduate of Norwin High School, Class of 2014. He loved motorcycles, weight lifting, sports, and spending time with his friends. He was employed by Burnham Industrial as a Journeyman Insulator for Local 2. In addition to his parents, Darien is survived by his daughter, Ryder, girlfriend Katie Sero, three sisters, Dymphena Clark, Dreena Clark, and Dacee Clark, grandparents Michalene Chara (Dave), Karen Clark, Mark Bungo (Katie), and Mary Ellen Beltz, great-grandma Jeanne Pettus, and his beloved corgi, Beenee. Friends will be received at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon PA. on Friday from 2-4 P.M. and 6-8 P.M. and Saturday from 11 A.M. to 1 P.M. with a service to follow in the funeral home chapel. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Kaitlyn Sero on behalf of Ryder. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
May 16, 2024 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Isabella E. Yanez, 91 of North Huntingdon, died peacefully on May 16, 2024 at her home. She was born February 15, 1933 in McKeesport, a daughter of the late John T. and Katherine Schneider. Prior to her retirement, Isabella was employed as a teacher's aide for special needs children in Mon Valley School Special Education. In her free time, she loved to knit and quilt. Isabella was great at baking, and she enjoyed her time spent babysitting at her home. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her two brothers William Schneider and John Schneider, and sisters Laura Whitehead and Agnes Coberly. She is survived by her beloved husband, Ralph A. Yanez, five children, Ralph Yanez (Karen), Angelina Yanez, William Yanez (Deborah), Joseph Yanez (Karen), and Samuel Yanez (Carrie), grandchildren Danielle Kukic (Chris), Angelina Yanez (Andrew), Sean Yanez (Claire), Raymond Yanez (Casey), Katie Yanez, Andrew Yanez, Addison Yanez, and Hayden Yanez, and great-grandchildren Emma, Luke, Riley, Avery, Wyatt, and Levi. Friends will be received on Sunday from 2-4 P.M. and 6-8 P.M. at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon PA. A funeral service will take place in the funeral home chapel on Monday at 9:15 AM, with interment to follow in St. Mary's German Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Alzheimer's Association. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
May 15, 2024 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Frances Papp, age 89 of North Huntingdon, passed away on Wednesday, May 15, 2024 at her home. She was born on January 16, 1935 in McKeesport, a daughter of the late Adam and Mary Fisher Spalla. Frances cherished her role as a homemaker. She was a member of the Hungarian Reformed Church in McKeesport, and always looked forward to attending bingo nights with her friends. In addition to her parents, Frances was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Arthur Papp, son Arthur Papp Jr., brothers John Spalla and Frank Spalla, and sister Faye Burgess. She is survived by her sons, David Papp and Vincent Papp (Joan), her daughter Denise (William) Prontiker, grandchildren Joseph, Molly, Daniel, Samuel, Chad (Nikki), Michael, and Billy, and great-grandchildren Lila and Luke. Visitation and services will be private, with a private interment to follow in Long Run Cemetery. Arrangements by James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon PA. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
May 12, 2024 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Evelyn M. Miller, age 97 of North Huntingdon, died May 12, 2024, at her granddaughter's home surrounded by her family. She was born March 24, 1927, in Pittsburgh, Pa., a daughter of the late Andrew and Florence Sylvis Graham. Evelyn was known as the candy lady at Walden's View. She enjoyed playing cards, bingo, and playing hymns on the organ. Prior to her retirement, she was employed by the Norwin High School cafeteria and as an office manager for Dr. Churma, D.C. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband Howard in 1986, one brother, Donald Graham, one sister Betty Hunter. She is survived by two sons, Robert (Melinda), Miller, Thom (Lorraine) Miller, one daughter, Ginna Kraus (George), 10 grandchildren, Jeff Miller (Kelly), Christa Ricciuti (Scott), Jacquelyn Jared (Mike), Kaley Wood (Jim), Lindsay Lewis, Amy Kemper (Barry), Jodi Sawyer Kraus, Jayme Miller (Andrea), Sarah Forkner(Dan), Erik Miller, 17 great grandchildren, Leo, Sophie, Anthony, Brody, Noah, Cole, Colin, Mason, Tiegen, Graham, Grey, Julia, Ty, Capree, Maezee, Grady and Maddy , numerous nieces and nephews. A celebration of life will be held in July. The family would like to thank Redstone Hospice for their care and compassion for Evelyn the past three months. James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon in charge of arrangements. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
