October 12, 2023 |
By Willig Funeral Home | Posted in: Willig Funeral Home & Crematory
Anthony W. Gallaher, age 41, of McKeesport, died October 8, 2023. Born November 18, 1981, in McKeesport, he was the son of Jack (Annette Leitzell) Gallaher and Antonietta (Chiaverini) Stolic. Anthony graduated from McKeesport Area High School in 2000, where he was First Team All-Conference in football and a State Qualifier in the shot put. After high school, Anthony attended Lehigh University on a football scholarship.
He enjoyed home remodeling with his father, cooking meals for family and friends, and taught Culinary Arts at McKeesport High School for many years. He also worked for his Stepfather at Wagner Development as a superintendent.
Anthony’s smile was infectious. He loved his family and always made sure to let them know any time he saw them as well as give everyone one of his big bear hugs.
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October 12, 2023 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Catherine U. Argyle, age 80 of Trafford died October 12, 2023 in UPMC Presbyterian Hospital. She was born December 23, 1942 in McKeesport, Pa., a daughter of the late James and Mary Cardwell Newton. Catherine was a member of the Trafford Congregation of Jehovah's Witnesses. She was a great mother and grandmother. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband Thomas in 2004. She is survived by two daughters, Tierney and Patricia Argyle, two brothers, Kenneth and Gerald Newton, two sisters, Margaret Munsie and Charlotte Newton, two grandchildren, Kaleb and Kyra. There will be no public visitation. Services will be held at a later date. www. shirleyfuneralhome.com.
October 12, 2023 |
By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory

Lillian Alberta (Hall) Gergley, age 90 of Jefferson Hills, passed away surrounded by family on Wednesday, October 11, 2023. Born August 12, 1933 in Neville Island, she was the daughter of the late Joseph and Winnifred (Brown) Hall. She was a former Secretary for US Steel Clairton Works in Clairton, a member of the Anglican Church of the Transfiguration in Elizabeth, a member the Eastern Star Lodge, formerly in Clairton, and card club. Lillian was preceded in death by her husband of 62 years, John R. Gergley, Jr., who passed away October 17, 2016. She is survived by her daughters Linda (Mark) Withrow of Clairton, Donna Shaffer of Clairton, and Debra (Bill) Maurizio of Pleasant Hills; grandchildren Nathan J. (Athena) Withrow, Kaitlin D. (Dan) McKenzie, Ryan (Kate) Shaffer, Nico Maurizio, and Gabriella (Gabriel) Mezzaluna; great-grandchildren, Daniel Shaffer, Lillian Shaffer, Stanley McKenzie, and Willow Withrow; brother-in-law Michael (Joyce) Gergley of Glassport, sister-in-law Edna Hall of Wylie, TX; extended family/daughter #4 Valerie DeBellis; and nieces and nephews. In addition to her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by her brother Joseph Hall.
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October 12, 2023 |
By Willig Funeral Home | Posted in: Willig Funeral Home & Crematory
Helen B. Widen, age 93, of North Huntingdon, died October 9, 2023, at UPMC McKeesport Hospital. Born February 19, 1930, in Daisytown, PA, she was the daughter of the late Michael and Mary Dudash and wife of the late Carl H. Widen. Helen "Betty" worked until she was 80 years old, cleaning various homes. She also took meticulous care of her home, caring for the yard and tending to her flower garden. Her favorite flowers were the peonies and roses, with some of the roses being transplanted from her mother's garden. Betty always had a smile on her face anytime her grandchild and great-grandchildren were around. She loved them dearly. Betty is survived by her daughter, Barbara (Dennis) Englert; granddaughter, Courtney (Corey) Williams; great-grandsons, Cameron and Conor. In addition to her parents and husband, she was also preceded in death by her daughter, Carla J. Widen, and her brother, John Dudash. Arrangements were entrusted to Willig Funeral Home & Crematory. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.willigfuneralcremationservices.com. Charles Danforth, Supervisor
October 12, 2023 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory

Dennis Charles Husok, 68, of West Newton, passed away Sunday, October 8, 2023. He was born in McKeesport on August 6, 1955 and was the son to the late Andrew and Stella (Szczerba) Husok. Dennis was a member of many clubs - Buena Vista Owls Cub, Versailles Croatian Club, Elizabeth Township Ex-Servicemen's Club - among others. He enjoyed spending his time at these clubs with his friends, but mostly enjoyed the rides on his Harley. Dennis is a Marine Corp Veteran and served from September of 1973 until being honorably discharged in August of 1976. He is survived by his oldest brother, Andrew (Colleen) Husok of Elizabeth Township - their sons, Josh (Chara) Husok, and Jeremy (Allison) Husok with their children, Ashlynn, Brooklynn, Brinley, & Aubrey Husok, also, their daughter, Brandi Husok; his younger brother, Edward Husok of Lincoln Borough with his son, James Husok; and his youngest brother, David (Karolyn) Husok of White Oak - with their daughters, Tiffany Husok, and Tabatha (Joe) Rush, with their children, Joey, McKenna, & Jackson. There is no visitation at this time. Arrangements are by the Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc. 6028 Smithfield Street, Boston, Elizabeth Township (412) 751-5000 Drew J. Gilbert, director. Condolences can be made at Gilbertfuneralhomeandcrematory.com
October 11, 2023 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Gloria Ballough, 89, of North Huntingdon on October 10, 2023 at UPMC East. Born on April 1, 1934 in McKeesport, Gloria was a radiant figure in the lives of many. She was a daughter of the late William and Elizabeth (Demeter) Snyir.
Her home stood as a testament to her lively spirit, adorned with festive decorations throughout the year, especially her enchanting Christmas houses. Gloria's door was always open, welcoming guests with stuffed cabbages, soups and her famous filled pizelles; turning many visitors into lifelong friends. Art held a special place in her heart, with a unique wall mural in her home bearing testament to her creativity. After her retirement as an office manager from C.J. Langenfelder, she reveled in shopping trips, hair salon visits, and casino outings. An avid Scrabble enthusiast, Gloria's knack for wordplay was second only to her ability to make friends and hold engaging conversations.
She was preceded in death by her loving husband of 63 years, Michael P. Ballough. Gloria's proudest roles were as a dedicated mother to Michelle Harker (Doug) and a doting grandmother to Erik Harker and his wife, Virginia Shields and Keith Harker and his fiancée, Jillian Lascek.
Gloria's zest for life, her boundless love, and infectious enthusiasm will be dearly missed. The Ballough family thanks everyone who shared in Gloria's vibrant journey. Rest in peace, Gloria; your legacy of warmth and joy will continue to inspire.
Friends will be received from 2-6 p.m. on Sunday at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon, PA 15642. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Monday at 9:30 a.m. in St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church. Interment to follow in Penn Lincoln Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
October 11, 2023 |
By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory

Rylin L. Lutz, age 14, of Jefferson Hills, passed away on Tuesday, October 10, 2023 at UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh. He attended the Western PA School for Blind Children in Pittsburgh and had a love for music, band t-shirts, Harry Potter and Star Wars. He had a great personality, mirroring Sheldon Cooper, and was full of teenage attitude. Born November 9, 2008 in Pittsburgh, he was a son of William and Brittny (Ruffing) Lutz. In addition to his parents, he is survived by his paternal grandmother, Heather Lutz of Bethel Park; maternal grandparents, Lisa (Larry) Marchetti of West Newton and H. Glenn (Gwen) Ruffing of Gillette, WY; also, aunts, uncles, cousins, and his special person, Jaxtyn. He was preceded in death by brother, Bennett Lutz, and paternal grandfather, William A. Lutz. The family would like to say a special thank you to all his teachers, therapists and nurses at the school for all their support, patience, kindness and love you showed our son. Also, a special thank you to the nursing and respiratory staff, the doctors, and Carol May at Children’s Hospital for the amazing support and care you gave to Rylin and our family. Friends will be received in the Paul E. Bekavac Funeral Home, 221 North Second Avenue, Elizabeth on Sunday, October 15, 2023 from 2-4 and 6-8 PM. A funeral service will take place on Monday, October 16, 2023 at 10 AM in Elrama Community Church with the Rev. Jude Urso officiating. EVERYONE PLEASE MEET AT THE CHURCH. Memorial contributions may be made to Children’s Hospital Foundation, designation for Supportive Care, 105 40th Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15201 or Western PA School for Blind Children, 201 N. Bellefield Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213. Offer condolences at
www.bekavacfuneralhome.com.
October 11, 2023 |
By Jaycox-Jaworski Funeral Home - Crematory | Posted in: Jaycox-Jaworski Funeral Home & Crematory
Larry D. Zirkle, age 72, of McKeesport, died October 10, 2023, at UPMC Presbyterian Hospital. Born March 6, 1951, in McKeesport, he was the son of the late Haskell and Mary Ann (Cosanella) Zirkle and the beloved husband of Susan (Welsh) Zirkle. Larry graduated from McKeesport Area High School in 1969 and received his Bachelor's degree from Penn State University. He was a salesman for A.M. Lutheran and then retired from Galli Beer Distributing in New Kensington. When he was younger, Larry was in the Pasterik's Bowling League and enjoyed his time bowling with friends.
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October 11, 2023 |
By Jaycox-Jaworski Funeral Home - Crematory | Posted in: Jaycox-Jaworski Funeral Home & Crematory
Mary Ann Ruggiero, age 78, of Arona, died October 7, 2023, at home. Born February 5, 1945, in Zanesville, OH, she was the daughter of the late John and Jean (Williams) Straka and the wife of the late Robert Ruggiero.
Mary Ann retired from Allegheny High Lift as a secretary and worked for Constar International prior. She attended church at Faith Lutheran Church in White Oak. Over the years, Mary Ann enjoyed camping with family in Butler and Keystone Park. She liked to spend her free time crocheting, cheering on the Pittsburgh Steelers, or adding to her collection of over 300 teddy bears.
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October 10, 2023 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Earl E. King, 97 of Elizabeth Township, passed away Saturday, October 7, 2023. He was born September 14, 1926 in McKeesport and was the son of the late Cecil Owen and Nellie Madilyn (Beisner) King. He was the husband of the late Mary Jane (Hankins) King who passed away May 12, 2012. They were married for 64 years. Earl was Supervisor at the former US Steel National Tube Works until his retirement in 1982. He was previously a farmer in his younger life. Earl served in the US Navy during WWII. He dropped out of Meadville High School, lied about his age and joined the US Navy. While serving, he ran the US Navy Post Office in New York City. Although he never saw combat, he was proud of his service because he knew he was making sailors happy getting letters from their loved ones. He was an avid gardener until the age of 93 and loved hunting and bowling.
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October 10, 2023 |
By Strifflers Family Funeral Homes | Posted in: Strifflers Family Funeral Homes

Joseph J. Brandt, Jr., age 83, of McKeesport, PA, died on Wednesday, September 6, 2023. He was born on March 13, 1940 and is the son of the late Joseph J. Brandt, Sr.
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October 10, 2023 |
By Teichart-Gracan Funeral Home | Posted in: Teichart-Gracan Funeral Home
John P. Darnay Jr., 70, of Port Vue died Sunday October 8, 2023. He is the son of the late John P. Darnay Sr. and survived by his mother Olga Ballas Darnay. John is also survived by his sons JR Darnay and Michael (Erin) Darnay; daughter Marissa (Bryan) Darnay; and grandchildren Emma, Bryce, and Blake. Friends will be received at the Teichart-Gracan Funeral Home, Duquesne on Friday from 2-4 and 6-8pm. Inurnment will be private.
October 10, 2023 |
By Willig Funeral Home | Posted in: Willig Funeral Home & Crematory
Richard J. Watkins "Mr. Dickie", age 95, of McKeesport, died October 5, 2023, at home. Born October 17, 1927, in Greensburg, he was the son of the late Perry Blannon and Alberta (Ganie) Blannon and the husband of Rose (Campbell) Watkins.
He retired from the City of McKeesport as an Ordinance Officer. He was a United States Army Veteran serving during the Korean War. Richard loved to Barbecue; he would smoke everything from ham to ribs and sell it to everyone in the community.
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October 09, 2023 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home

Eleanor M. Bartels, 91, of Claridge, passed away Saturday October 7, 2023. Eleanor grew up in McKeesport and lived in North Huntingdon prior to moving to Orlando in 1982. In 2006 she moved back to Pennsylvania. Prior to raising her children she was employed at Westinghouse Bettis. She also worked for both JCPenney Catalog and in the cafeteria in Norwin School District and then in Orlando. It was hard work that she sincerely enjoyed and did until her retirement in 2006. Eleanor volunteered at Riddle Memorial Hospital in Media, Pa. for several years, was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star and loved cruising. Prior to her husband's death, they enjoyed over 20 cruises together. She then cruised often with her family and created many happy memories. Eleanor is predeceased in death by her husband of nearly 50 years, Earl C. Bartels, Jr.; her son, Kenneth; and her brother, Leonard Myers. She is survived by her daughter, Leslie Sacks and her son, Eric (Cyndi) Bartels; grandsons, Derek and Mitchell; great granddaughter, Penelope; sisters, Laverne McConnell and Janice McEwan; several nieces and nephews and their families. There will be no services at this time. James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike , North Huntingdon in charge of arrangements. Donations can be made to St. Jude Children's Hospital.
Condolences may be made through the online website at www.shirleyfuneralhome.com.
October 09, 2023 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Robert William "Chirpy" Troy, 76 of Elizabeth Township, passed away on October 9, 2023 at home. He was born April 10, 1947 in Weirton, West Virginia and was the son of the late William Troy and Cecil and Beulah Goodwin, who raised him. He retired from US Steel Clairton Works with 37 years of service as a Millwright. Chirpy was a very proud Army Veteran, who served as a sharpshooter and served in Vietnam, for his service he was awarded The National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Army Commendation Medal and the Vietnam Service Medal. Rob was a member of the Ex-Serviceman’s Club of Elizabeth Township, Monongahela VFW Post 1409, and the White Oak American Legion Post 701.
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