Gayle S. Smith

March 05, 2022 |

By Willig Funeral Home | Posted in: Willig Funeral Home & Crematory

 Gayle S. (MacArthur) Smith, age 89, of Dravosburg, passed away peacefully on March 3, 2022, with her family by her side. Born September 9, 1932, in Pittsburgh and was the daughter of the late Arthur "Bud" MacArthur and Evelyn (McDowell) Foster and the wife of the late Harold Pennell and Sherwood Smith.

Diana da Silva Kacso

March 04, 2022 |

By Willig Funeral Home | Posted in: Willig Funeral Home & Crematory

Diana da Silva Kacso, age 68, of Brooklyn, New York, died peacefully in her sleep on
March 1, 2022, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with her husband and sons at her bedside,
after undergoing treatment for advanced cancer over the previous 18 months with her
usual indomitable courage, optimism, and irrepressible spirit.
Born in Rio de Janeiro in 1953, Diana began studying piano at age seven in her
hometown. At the age of 15, she made her orchestral debut with the Brazilian
Symphony. In 1971, she graduated from the Brazilian Conservatory of Music in C. P. de
Mello’s and Elzira Amabile’s piano classes. Between 1972 and 1975, she studied at the
Juilliard School of Music in New York City as a scholarship student of Sascha
Gorodnitzki.
Diana performed in concerts across South America, Europe, Israel, and the United
States, including Carnegie Hall, Queen Elizabeth Hall, Royal Festival Hall, and
Concertgebouw, and recorded for radio and television, including appearances on WNET
and WQXR. Deutsche Grammophon recorded her live concert in Munich in 1980. She
performed duos, trios, and chamber music with many beloved colleagues, including
Nancy Green and Jennifer Devore, cellists, and the late Rosemary Glyde, violist.
She won top awards at several international competitions, including 3rd Prize at the
International Piano Competition in Rio de Janeiro (1973), 6th Prize at the 9th
International Frederic Chopin Piano Competition in Warsaw (1975), 1st Prize at the
Teresa Carreño International Latin American Piano Competition, Caracas (1976), 2nd
Prize at the Artur Rubinstein Competition in Tel Aviv (1977), 2nd Prize at the
International Piano Competition in Leeds (1978), 1st prize at the International Piano
Competition in Viña del Mar (1978), and 2nd Prize at the Gina Bachauer International
Piano Competition, Salt Lake City, Utah (1982).
Diana moved to Brooklyn, New York, in 1985 with her husband, Christopher Panny, an
attorney whom she originally met at Juilliard when he was a music student there. In the
early 1990s, Diana curtailed her professional activities after her beloved sons, Gabriel
and Benjamin, were born, to devote her time and energy to them.
She returned to her native Brazil several times between 2006 and 2008 to give recitals
and masterclasses, which were enthusiastically received, and to reconnect with friends
and colleagues.

James A. Schonhardt

March 03, 2022 |

By Willig Funeral Home | Posted in: Willig Funeral Home & Crematory

James A. Schonhardt, age 82, of Liberty Borough, died March 1, 2022, at UPMC McKeesport. Born May 23, 1939, in Pittsburgh, he was the son of the late Max and Elizabeth (Rydle) Schonhardt and the husband of Adrienne (Roslosnick) Schonhardt.
James retired from the United States Postal Service, where he was a mail carrier. He was a US Army veteran and a member of the Port Vue American Legion Post #447 after the McKeesport American Legion closed. James was also a member of the 11th Ward Club and Croatian CFU Lodge 146. He enjoyed playing poker in his early years, trips to the casino in recent years, watching the Penguins and Pirates, and basking in the sun in his front yard. James's greatest joys were spending time with all of his family and grandchildren, especially his great-grandson, Ross, Jr. They would spend Sundays going to church in the morning and then enjoy the afternoons together.

Lynda M. Cain

March 01, 2022 |

By Willig Funeral Home | Posted in: Willig Funeral Home & Crematory

Lynda M. Cain, age 78, of North Adams, MA, died February 25, 2022, at Arden Courts of Jefferson Hills PA.  Born June 14, 1943, in Adams, MA, she was the daughter of the late Francis and Roma (Martin) Lanier and wife of the late Neil Cain, whom she loved dearly.  Lynda took pride in her community service by volunteering at the Food Bank in Adams and the former Sweet Brook Nursing Home.  She was a member of the former St. Francis of Assisi Church in North Adams. She worked for many years for JC Penney, both in North Adams and Lanesboro, MA. She was an avid bowler when she was younger, bowling in leagues at Valley Park Lanes. Lynda loved to spend time with family and friends going out to lunch and dinner, and most of all shopping.  Lynda is survived by her daughters, Erin (Chris) Morgan and Lori (Jim Cyr) Lemoine; grandchildren, Connor Morgan, Dalton Lemoine, and Grace Lemoine.  A memorial service will be held in Massachusetts at a later date. Arrangements were entrusted to Willig Funeral Home & Crematory.  Condolences and memories may be shared at www.willigfuneralcremationservices.com.  Charles Danforth, Supervisor

Valentina S. Belenkaya

February 28, 2022 |

By Willig Funeral Home | Posted in: Willig Funeral Home & Crematory

Valentina S. Belenkaya, age 102, of Forest Hills, died February 27, 2022, at home. Born January 28, 1920, in Borovichi, Russia, she was the daughter of the late Sergey and Olga (Mithrofanova) Efimov and the wife of the late Ilia Belenky.

Valentina retired as a professional pianist and assisted students at her late husband's studio. She was a devout Russian Orthodox woman. Valentina enjoyed singing, dancing, and sharing her music with others. She was also an avid reader and loved going for car rides.

Tammy (Moody) Yednak

February 23, 2022 |

By Willig Funeral Home | Posted in: Willig Funeral Home & Crematory

Tammy (Moody) Yednak, age 62, of McKeesport, died February 19, 2022, at home. Born September 23, 1959, in McKeesport, she was the daughter of the late John and Pearl (Kofchur) Moody and the wife of the late Stephen Yednak, Sr.

Tammy was the former owner of Yednak Automotive. She enjoyed shopping, trips to the casino, and relaxing with her cat, Marlon.

She is survived by her son Stephen (Erin) Yednak, Jr.; grandchildren, Tiara and Christopher; siblings, Tish (Eric) Grimm and Tim Moody; nieces and nephews, Eliza, Kyle, John, Matthew, Kara, Luke, and Cathy; sister-in-law, Janet Moody; and significant other, Dan Tebbetts.

Tracy Lynn Ferry

February 21, 2022 |

By Willig Funeral Home | Posted in: Willig Funeral Home & Crematory

Tracy Lynn Ferry, age 55, of McKeesport, died Feb.16, 2022, at AHN Forbes Hospital of Monroeville. Born September 19, 1966, in McKeesport, she was the daughter of the late Ken and Peggy (Tomco) Ferry.
Tracy was currently working at the Marriott Monroeville. She worked at many different hotels in the past years and the former Donut Connection of McKeesport. Tracy was also a former cake decorator. Her greatest joy was spending time with her family and friends.
She is survived by the father of her children and dear friend, Edward C. (Ada Marie) Ghrist of Glassport; partner, James Csorba; son, Edward M. Ghrist of McKeesport; daughter, Nicole M. (David Cook) Ghrist of McKeesport; brother, John Ferry of Duquesne; sisters, Patricia Vereb of Elizabeth; aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Family and friends will be received at Willig Funeral Home & Crematory on Sunday, February 27, 2022, from 6 p.m. until the time of celebration of life service at 8 p.m. Edward C. Ghrist will be the celebrant.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to Tracy's family.
Condolences and memories may be shared at www.willigfuneralcremationservices.com.
Chuck Danforth, Supervisor

Goldie Mildred Fisher

February 18, 2022 |

By Willig Funeral Home | Posted in: Willig Funeral Home & Crematory

Goldie Mildred Fisher, age 92, of White Oak, died February 12, 2022, at Kane Community Living Center. Born October 8, 1929, in McKeesport, she was the daughter of the late Leo E. and Goldie E. (Norris) Urbansky and wife of the late James K. Fisher of 51 years.

Goldie was a member of Bryn Mawr Church of Christ. She enjoyed dancing, bowling, spending time with friends, and traveling.

Goldie is survived by her niece, Diane (David) Williams; nephews, Louis (Kathy) Urbanski, William (Dolores) Urbansky, Jr., Daniel (Dena) Gribble, Richard (Trina) Gribble, and Brian (Marilyn) Gribble; great-niece, Chere Williams and her daughter Anya Yirenkyi; great-nephews, David Williams, Jr., and Robert (Shawndel) Mrvos; sister-in-law, Patricia Ann (Guski).

Marie Homza

February 15, 2022 |

By Willig Funeral Home | Posted in: Willig Funeral Home & Crematory

Marie Homza, age 94, died peacefully Sunday morning, February 6, 2022, after a brief time at Haven Hospice of Gainesville, Florida. She was the daughter of the late Thomas and Rosa (Hart) Stephenson, the eighth of nine children, and the wife of the late Eli Homza for nearly 55 years, before his death in 2001.

Vivian M. Hresko

February 14, 2022 |

By Willig Funeral Home | Posted in: Willig Funeral Home & Crematory

Vivian M. Hresko, age 94, of Port Vue, died February 10, 2022, at home.  Born May 3, 1927, in McKeesport, she was the daughter of the late Marie (Duyava) Scott and wife of the late Robert R. Hresko. 

At the age of eighteen, Vivian began working as a secretary for U.S. Steel.  She would then work for Equibank and then in the main office for Shop N Save.  She was a member of the former St. Joseph Church, now Saints Joachim and Anne Parish, Glassport Senior Citizens, and Port Vue Senior Citizens.  Vivian loved to travel, visiting many countries throughout Europe and going on seven cruises.  She traveled so much that she became known as a tour guide to relatives and friends.  

Vivian is survived by children, Robert R. (Maureen) Hresko, Kenneth J. (Kris) Hresko, Janice (William Bosway) Null; grandchildren, Melissa (Eric Wilson) Hresko, Robert M. Hresko, Katie (Patrick) Murtagh, and Karly Hresko; great-grandchildren, Hanna, Noah, Angelina, Emma, Connor, Justice, Faith, and Matthew.

James Joseph Kohl

February 14, 2022 |

By Willig Funeral Home | Posted in: Willig Funeral Home & Crematory

James Joseph Kohl, age 69, of Export, peacefully went to the Lord on February 13, 2022.  Born June 28, 1952, in McKeesport, he was the son of the late Kenneth and Nellie (Glodowski) Kohl and husband of Lynn (Toth) Kohl for 46 years.  Jim graduated from Penn State University in 1974 with an Accounting Degree, where he also played on the McKeesport division of the Penn State Baseball Team.  Jim was always proud of his McKeesport roots.  He worked as a controller at various manufacturing facilities in the Tri-State Area.  Jim was an avid classic car enthusiast and loved to listen to oldies music at local car cruises.

Regis E. Hutchison

February 12, 2022 |

By Willig Funeral Home | Posted in: Willig Funeral Home & Crematory

Regis E. Hutchison, age 79, of North Versailles, formerly of McKeesport, died February 10, 2022, at home. Born August 28, 1942, he was the son of the late Benjamin and Lillian (Moon) Hutchison and the husband of the late Lyda J. Hutchison.
Regis was a retired self-employed auto mechanic. He had a passion for antique automobiles and bicycling. His greatest joy, was spending time with his grandchildren and family.

Elvira "Elvie" Slavik

February 10, 2022 |

By Willig Funeral Home | Posted in: Willig Funeral Home & Crematory

Elvira "Elvie" Slavik, age 94, of Port Vue, died February 9, 2022, at Overlook Green Senior Living of Pittsburgh. Born October 13, 1927, in Clairton, PA, she was the daughter of the late Gaetano and Marie (Tuoto) Spinello and the wife of the late Michael A. "Mike" Slavik.
Elvira retired as a self-employed beautician. She truly loved being a wife and mother and always being there to care for her family and home. Elvira was a member of the former St. Mark's Parish. She was also a member of the ISDA Lodge #57. Elvira took great pride in her cooking and will always be remembered for her fried chicken. She enjoyed bingo, trips to the casino, and scratching PA Lottery tickets. Elvira is survived by her son, Gregory (Cindy) Slavik of Glenshaw; many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Along with her husband and parents, Elvira was also preceded in death by a son, Michael Slavik. Family and friends will be received at Willig Funeral Home & Crematory on Saturday, February 12, 2022, from 1 p.m. until the time of blessing service at 5 p.m., in the funeral home chapel.
Private burial will be in Calvary Cemetery of Port Vue.
Condolences and memories may be shared at www.willigfuneralcremationservices.com.
Chuck Danforth, Supervisor

Charlotte "Tresa" DiCecco

February 02, 2022 |

By Willig Funeral Home | Posted in: Willig Funeral Home & Crematory

Charlotte "Tresa" DiCecco age 93, of Christy Park, died February 1, 2022, at Kane Community Living Center of McKeesport. Born May 16, 1928, in Wyano, PA, she was the daughter of the late Dominic and Emily (Jungo) Teti and the wife of the late Peter J. DiCecco, for 71 years.
Tresa worked at Tillies Restaurant and Ames department store, both of McKeesport. She was a member of Mary, Mother of God Parish, St. Patrick Church, Palenese Club and also the Christy Park Seniors. Tresa enjoyed playing bingo and trips to the casino.
Tresa is survived by children, Rose (Keith) McLaughlin of Port Vue; son-in-law, Fred (Theresa) Stipkovits of Elizabeth and Peter J. (Iva) DiCecco of McKeesport; grandchildren, Fred (Sara), Stephen, Jennifer (Chad), Peter John (Laura) and Brian (Angelina); great-grandchildren, Mia, Brian Jr., Louis, and Caroline; siblings, Genevie Diana of Rankin and Virginia Judy of McKeesport; also many nieces and nephews.

Dolores "Jeannie" Garish

February 02, 2022 |

By Willig Funeral Home | Posted in: Willig Funeral Home & Crematory

Dolores "Jeannie" Garish, age 72, of West Mifflin, died on January 30, 2022. Born July 25, 1949, in Dravosburg, she was the daughter of the late Earl and Zella (Paxon) Bernath.
In her free time, Jeannie enjoyed going to bingo, flea markets, and doing crossword puzzles.
Jeannie is survived by her children, Tammy (Mark) Konieczki, Jamie (Mel) Anastasiu, James (the late Liz Garish) Garish and Gloria (Brian) Buzby; grandchildren, Michael Kemple, Kreo Fetty, Madison Konieczki, Kaden Fetty, Maleena Engster, Mel Jr., Meela and Makira; siblings, Clarence "Hoppy" Moffitt, Chuck (Wendy) Bernath, Beverly Birr and Kathy Loera;, and many nieces and nephews.
She was also preceded in death by the love of her life, Joseph Jackson III, who died 8 days earlier; her first husband, James Garish; siblings, Edna Oatman, James Moffitt, Earl Bernath, Linda Savage, and Donna Ehrhardt.
Family and friends will be received at Willig Funeral Home & Crematory on Friday, February 4, 2022, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Burial will follow in Round Hill Cemetery.
Condolences and memories may be shared at www.willigfuneralcremationservices.com
Supervisor, Charles Danforth