September 15, 2023 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Lida Wilma (Lojpersberger) Benyak, 92, of Liberty Borough, formerly of New Kensington, passed away Thursday, September 14, 2023. She was born in Johnson City, NY on May 19, 1931 and was daughter to the late Paul and Helen (Fabik) Lojpersberger. She graduated from Johnson City High School in 1949 and moved to New Kensington, where she worked for ALCOA Aluminum Co. while remaining involved with Sokol, USA - Lodge #46; where she was a gymnast, taught classes, and performed in a Czechoslovakian Folk Dance Co. These groups brought her to meet the love of her life, Joseph Benyak. They got married on October 16, 1954 and were married for a wonderful 56 years before his passing in September, 2010. Her and Joseph had moved to Liberty Borough and Lida became an extremely active member of the Liberty Prebyterian Church for 66 years - from an attendance officer to the "Sunshine Lady," and various other activities, you could always count on Lida to be involved. She was also a member of the Liberty Senior Citizens and loved traveling with their whole group. While traveling, she found her favorite travel time was with her family to the beach.
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September 15, 2023 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Antonio Balestreri, 97, of Pittsburgh, passed away Thursday, September 14, 2023 at Forbes Regional Hospital. He was born June 22, 1926 in Buffalo, NY, a son of the late Salvatore and Giovanna Balestreri. Prior to his retirement, Antonio was a firefighter for the City of Pittsburgh and a veteran of the US Navy having served during WWII. He was an all-around handyman who enjoyed woodworking, hunting and going to the beach. He is survived by his loving wife of 70 years, Bernadine (Perella) Balestreri; sons, Anthony M. Balestreri and Daniel J. Balestreri and his wife, Kristen; grandchildren, Dominic (Ashley) and Mario. There will be no visitation. Private interment in Calvary Cemetery, Pittsburgh. Memorials may be made to The Wounded Warriors Project in memory of Antonio. Arrangements made by James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon, PA 15642. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
September 14, 2023 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Catherine “Kay” Chemsak (Utlak), AKA “Bubby”, 93, passed away at her home September 13, 2023 with her family by her side. Kay, who embraced life with a fun-loving and adventurous spirit, left this world with a legacy of laughter, joy, and cherished memories that will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. She was born in Youngstown, PA on February 27, 1930 to the late Michael and Katerina (Orinchin) Utlak. Kay grew up with four brothers and three sisters. Her earliest memories include weekend train rides and bakery visits with her brother, which set the stage for her lifelong love of trains, travel and sweets. As a young adult, Kay embarked on a fulfilling journey that included a memorable chapter in Washington, D.C., where she worked for the FBI. It was during her time there that she had a chance encounter with J. Edgar Hoover in an elevator, a memory she often shared. Upon leaving DC, she moved to McKeesport, PA and met her loving partner of 57 years, Andy Chemsak. There, they raised their kids Jean and David and treasured time with their grandchildren. One of Kay’s most endearing qualities was her ability to maintain a childlike magic even in old age. When visiting Disney World at age 90, she rode the Frozen ride with a look of pure joy on her face and was inspired to buy an Elsa doll to remember that experience. Kay's laughter was infectious and she often had a mischievous sparkle in her eyes when telling stories about her earlier life. She had a unique gift for making friends wherever she went, a testament to her welcoming personality. She was an avid BINGO player, enjoyed all types of crafts, loved to travel, and never passed up a good sing-along. Most of all, Kay loved her family. She always looked forward to holidays and events where everyone was together, describing these fondly as “a lot of eating and loud talking.”
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September 14, 2023 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
A generation of Post-Gazette readers knew who to turn to for the newest hot spots in Pittsburgh, what to wear to them and —- perhaps most importantly — what recipes and restaurants were on fire this week: Woodene “Woody” Merriman. A “legend” in the ranks of reporters and editors during her tenure from 1977 through 2005, Ms. Merriman took on many roles at the PG, including as restaurant and food critic, lifestyle editor and assistant managing editor.“With her no-nonsense, git-er-done style, Woody was a role model,” said Marlene Parrish, retired food writer for the PG. “Whatever the subject, she nailed it. Also an author and lifelong feminist, Ms. Merriman, who moved from Elizabeth Township to a retirement home in Chevy Chase, Md., 10 years ago, died on Aug. 19 of complications from an infection. She was 97.
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September 14, 2023 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Florence L. Anderson, 73, of North Huntingdon, passed away Thursday, September 14, 2023 at Excela Health Westmoreland Hospital. She was born January 3, 1950 in Monroeville, a daughter of the late Wendell E. and Eunice (Hoak) Hager. Prior to her retirement, Florence was a data entry clerk for MSA. She enjoyed gardening, sewing and camping. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Ralph Anderson. She is survived by her son, Victor Anderson and his wife, Julia; brothers, Charlie (Stephanie) Hager, Don (Linda) Hager; grandchildren, Aubrey, Deklyn, Bo and Zoe. Services are private. Arrangements by James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon, PA 15642. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
September 14, 2023 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Joseph Michael Hoagland, 32, of McKeesport, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, September 13, 2023 at home. He was born January 24, 1991 in McKeesport and was the son of Debra A. Hoagland of McKeesport and the late Jeffrey J. Hoagland, who passed away May 2, 2022. Joseph enjoyed fishing, especially at Lake Emilie inside Renzie Park in McKeesport. In addition to his mother, he is survived by his brother, Jeremy Hoagland; step-brother, Christopher (Stephanie) Hoagland; special sisters, Marissa and Jessica Boros; numerous aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews; and best friends, Stuart Mohamed, Jeffrey Furlong and Blaine Hilbert. There will be no visitation. Arrangements are by the Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 1638 Lincoln Way, White Oak (412) 672-6322 Troy J. Gilbert, Director. Condolences may be made at GilbertFuneralHomeandCrematory.com
September 14, 2023 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Bernard M. Oriss, 89, of North Huntingdon, passed away Wednesday, September 13, 2023 at Forbes Regional Hospital. He was born March 26, 1934 in North Braddock, a son of the late Michael and Marie (Takosky) Oriss. Prior to his retirement, Bernie was a school teacher for Woodland Hills School District where he taught Social Studies and History. During the summers, he coordinated school picnics for Kennywood Park for 39 years and was awarded twice for P.S.E.A. Teacher of the Year at Swissvale High School/Woodland Hills. He was a veteran of the US Air Force having served during the Korean War and a member of St. Agnes Parish. He was the coach and athletic director for Scott High School, North Braddock, assistant coach of golf and was inducted into the East Boro Hall of Fame for Basketball and Baseball. Bernie enjoyed golfing, gardening and attending events for his grandchildren. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, James Oriss. He is survived by his loving wife, Rosalie Oriss; son, Timothy Oriss and his wife, Carol; daughter, Karen Oravitz and her husband, Ken; grandchildren, Nicholas (Sabrina) Oriss and Andrew Oriss, Natalie and Bradley Oravitz; sister-in-law, Lois Oriss; and nieces, Lisa (Troy) Sands and Amy (Jonathan) Oriss. Friends will be received from 2-4 & 6-8 p.m. on Sunday at James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon, PA 15642. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Monday at 10 a.m. in St. Agnes Church. Interment will be private in Grandview Cemetery. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
September 14, 2023 |
By Jaycox-Jaworski Funeral Home - Crematory | Posted in: Jaycox-Jaworski Funeral Home & Crematory
Helene Yedinak, age 98, was called to rest on September 11, 2023, at St Barnabas, Arbors of Gibsonia. Born November 27, 1924, in Offenbach, Germany, she is the daughter of the late Hieronymus and Barbara Müller and the wife of the late James Yedinak.
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September 13, 2023 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Grace Elizabeth Gall, 80, of Glassport, passed away Wednesday, August 30, 2023 at her daughter's home in White Oak. She was born September 19, 1942 in New Eagle and was the daughter of the late Peter and Thelma Mercedes (Gilbert) Garish. She was the wife of the late Robert Gall who passed away February 13, 2014. Grace was a member of The Church, Sutersville and was an Ordained Minister. She is survived by her daughter, Victoria Jill (Earl G.) Ward of White Oak, grandchildren, John (Katie) Freund, Sherry (Kevin) Kevech, Jesse Jeffcoat, Eric Jeffcoat, Michael Jeffcoat, Crystal Jeffcoat, Mason Jeffcoat, and Max Jeffcoat, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins. She was preceded in death by her sons, Jesse Jeffcoat and Timothy Jeffcoat, sisters, Joan Garish Emery, and a brother, James Garish. There is no visitation. Private graveside service and inurnment took place at Round Hill Cemetery, Elizabeth Township. Arrangements are by Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 6028 Smithfield Street, Boston, Elizabeth Township. (412) 751-5000 Drew J. Gilbert, Director. Condolences may be made at Gilbertfuneralhomeandcrematory.com
September 13, 2023 |
By Willig Funeral Home | Posted in: Willig Funeral Home & Crematory
Clifford C. Nolder, age 57, of Elizabeth, died September 1, 2023, at UPMC Shadyside due to complications with his liver. Born October 20, 1965, he was the son of the late James "Nuggy" and Carol Ann (Pierce) Nolder.
Clifford worked in construction. One of his favorite jobs he had was working on a fishing boat. Clifford enjoyed moving around and lived in many places, such as Virginia, the Outer Banks, Myrtle Beach, and Florida. He moved back home to Elizabeth years ago when his father became ill. Clifford loved spending time with his nephews and their children.
Clifford is survived by his siblings, Jim Nolder, Heather (the late Ron) Yuhas, Laura Nolder, and Kathleen (Mike) Davis.
Arrangements were entrusted to Willig Funeral Home & Crematory.
Condolences and memories may be shared at www.willigfuneralcremationservices.com
Supervisor, Charles Danforth
September 12, 2023 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Linda A. Dow, 74, of McKeesport, passed away Monday, September 11, 2023. She was born July 26, 1949 in McKeesport and was the daughter of the late Daniel A. and Florence J. (Couch) Borrelli. She was the wife of the late Paul "Gene" Eugene Dow, who passed away November 26, 2020. Linda worked most of her life in her family's business, Borrelli's Lounge and was a member of Turner's Association in Christy Park. She was an avid candy crush player, enjoyed video poker and enjoyed reading, especially the Harry Potter Books. She was a Trekie who loved Star Trek, most notably the Deep Space Nine Series, but loved all the shows and movies. Most importantly she was a devoted mother, wife, sister, aunt and friend who will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
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September 12, 2023 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Donald Ray Plants, 90, of West Elizabeth, passed away Sunday, September 10, 2023. He was born September 24, 1932 in Jefferson Boro and was the son of the late Grover and Mary (Lewis) Plants. He was the husband of the late Joan Laverne (Rush) Plants who passed away December 29, 2012. Donald was the Proprietor of Shadlure Tackle in West Elizabeth and was also a Diesel Mechanic retiring from J & L Steel. He was a US Army Veteran and served in the Korean War.
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September 12, 2023 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Nancy Lee Schoemer, 87, of Bunola, passed away Monday, September 11, 2023. She was born in Elizabeth on February 9, 1936 and was the daughter to the late William and Nancy (Neal) Crosbie. She was the wife to the late William Schoemer before his passing in December of 1973. She is survived by her sons, Kenneth and Darryl Schoemer of Bunola; her daughter, Beth (Robert) Clawson of Bunola; grandchildren, Eric Schoemer, William Schoemer, and Caitlin Clawson; great-grandchildren, Cole Schoemer, and Scarlett & Lyla Babusci; and also by her sisters, Betty Henry, and Sally Gray. In addition to her parents and husband, Nancy is preceded in death by her brother, William Crosbie; and by her sisters, Linda Crosbie, and Carolyn Cameron. There is no visitation. Arrangements are by the Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc. 6028 Smithfield Street, Elizabeth Township. (412) 751-5000 Drew J. Gilbert, director. Condolences can be made at Gilbertfuneralhomeandcrematory.com
September 11, 2023 |
By Maloy-Schleifer Funeral Home | Posted in: Maloy-Schleifer Funeral Home
Lorraine M. Pawling, age 87, of Duquesne, passed away on Monday, September 11, 2023, at her home. Born in Pittsburgh on December 29, 1935, she was the daughter of late Joseph and Anna (Munich) Gonzales. She retired, after 35 years, as a custodian for the Duquesne City School District. She also worked for 14 years for Nutrition Inc. She enjoyed crossword puzzle books, went to HOBO conventions, was a former member of the MOOSE and enjoyed spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren. Her favorite person in the world was her grandchild, Cierra Lee Blue. She was the wife of the late Mike DeRosse; mother of Vicki Malloy of Duquesne, Diana Fierst of Duquesne, Michael (Anna) Gorscak of Baldwin, John (Debra) Pawling of Lincoln Place and Karen (Stephen) Aullard of Idaho; 13 grandchildren, 21 great grandchildren, 2 great great grandchildren; sister of Marianne (Chuck) Williams of Whitaker and late Evelyn (late John) Genes and late Edward Gonzales. Visitation will be held on Friday, September 15, 2023, from 2-7:30 p.m., at the MALOY-SCHLEIFER FUNERAL HOME, INC., 915 KENNEDY AVE., DUQUESNE, 15110, 412-466-3300, WILLIAM B. SCHLEIFER, SUPERVISOR, WILLIAM BRIAN SCHLEIFER, FUNERAL DIRECTOR. Services will be held following visitation at 7:30 p.m.
September 11, 2023 |
By Maloy-Schleifer Funeral Home | Posted in: Maloy-Schleifer Funeral Home
John M. “Jack” Znavor, of North Huntingdon, formerly of Whitaker, passed away on Monday, September 11, 2023, at home. Born in Braddock on July 22, 1950, he was the son of the late John and Ann (Sincak) Znavor. He worked in retail sales management and was a member of Immaculate Conception Church-Irwin. Jack was a sports fan, enjoyed gardening, spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren, enjoyed Disney World and liked collecting baseball cards. He was the husband of the late Eunice “Jo” (Gibbons) Znavor, for 48 years, who died on November 1, 2022. He is the father of Brian (Laura) Znavor of North Huntingdon, Kevin Znavor of North Huntingdon and Maura (Bernie) Ponko of North Huntingdon and grandfather of Lia Guzzie, Joey Znavor, and Gretta & John Ponko. Visitation will be held on Thursday, September 14, 2023, from 2-4 & 6-8 p.m. at the MALOY-SCHLEIFER FUNERAL HOME, INC., 915 KENNEDY AVE., DUQUESNE, 15110, 412-466-3300, WILLIAM B. SCHLEIFER, SUPERVISOR, WILLIAM BRIAN SCHLEIFER, FUNERAL DIRECTOR, where a Blessing Service will take place on Friday, September 15, 2023, at 11:00 a.m., with Rev. Daniel D’Antonio, officiating. Burial will follow in Holy Name Cemetery, West Mifflin. Jack’s family would like to offer a special “thank you” to Bridges Hospice and Hillman Cancer Center for the compassionate care extended to Jack and his family.
