July 12, 2023 |
By William S. Skovranko Memorial Home | Posted in: William S. Skovranko Memorial Home
Deborah E. (Wirginis) Wetzer, 70, of Munhall, entered into eternal rest peacefully at home on Tuesday, July 11, 2023. Born in McKeesport on May 9, 1953, she was the daughter of Helen (Glovis) Uchnar and the late Peter Paul Wirginis. Mrs. Wetzler was a member of Mary, Mother of God Parish, St. Angela Merici Church, White Oak, and a retired information specialist for the Veterans Administration, Pittsburgh. Beloved wife of Oscar C. Wetzler, she is also survived by her mother, a sister, Beverly Carol Yarsky a niece, Sharon Pliske, two nephews, Dr. Peter Yarsky and Michael Yarsky, and her four legged children, Jake, Chaco and Jazz. In addition to her father she was also preceded in death by a sister, Valerie Karen Balavage.
Friends and family will be received on Friday July 14, 2023, from 1-4 and 6-9 P.M. in the William S. Skovranko Memorial Home Inc., 828 Richford Street, Duquesne. A Blessing at 8:45 A.M. on Saturday July 15, 2023 in the Memorial Home will be followed by Mass of Christian Burial at 9:30 A.M. in St. Angela Merici Church with Rev. Joseph Beck as celebrant.
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July 12, 2023 |
By Maloy-Schleifer Funeral Home | Posted in: Maloy-Schleifer Funeral Home
Dr. Paul A. Balta D.D.S., age 87, of Gibsonia, formerly of Duquesne, passed away on July 12, 2023, at his residence, surrounded by his family. Born in Duquesne on April 29, 1936, he was the son of the late George and Ella (Kushnir) Balta. He was a graduate of Duquesne High School, Class of 1954, the University of Pittsburgh (undergraduate) and University of Pittsburgh Dental School in 1962.
He served in the Navy as a dentist at Camp Lejeune from 1962-1964. He was a dentist for 47 years, with an office first in Elizabeth and then Duquesne, before retiring in 2009. He was a member of S.S. Peter & Paul Byzantine Catholic Church, Duquesne. He was an avid fan of all Pittsburgh sports teams, particularly Pitt Football for which he had season tickets for many years. He enjoyed bowling, coached softball for the Croatian Club, and coached little league for his son Dan.
He loved playing Baggo “Cornhole”, all card games, listening to Myron Cope and Mike Lang on his transistor radio, and spending time with his children and grandchildren. He was a sentimental soul who cried every time he opened greeting cards and presents from his family. Sarcasm was one of his many talents and he had a smile that could light up a room.
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July 12, 2023 |
By William S. Skovranko Memorial Home | Posted in: William S. Skovranko Memorial Home
Gary J. Andrews, 64, of Coraopolis, died on Sunday, July 9, 2023, in Allegheny General Hospital, Pittsburgh. Born in Pittsburgh, January 18, 1959, he was the son of the late Lawrence T. and Violet L. (Haupt) Andrews . Mr. Andrews was a longtime resident of Merakey / Allegheny Valley School in Coraopolis. He is survived a sister, Patricia D. Andrews , a niece Brittany Andrews and her fiance William O'Brien, Great nieces and nephews Bradley Andrews, Sloane O'Brien and Giana O'Brien. Mr. Andrews was also preceded in death by a brother Michael J. Andrews.
Family and friends will be received in the William S. Skovranko Memorial Home, Inc., 828 Richford Street, Duquesne, from 2- 6P.M. on Sunday, July 16, 2023. A Blessing Service will be held at 6 P.M. on Sunday. His family wishes donations be made to Merakey / Allegheny Valley School 1992 Ewings Mill Road, Coraopolis, PA. 15108 in Gary's memory.
July 12, 2023 |
By William S. Skovranko Memorial Home | Posted in: William S. Skovranko Memorial Home
Robert Blank, 73, passed away on Tuesday, July 11, 2023, at Monroeville Rehabilitation and Wellness Center. Born January 16, 1950, in McKeesport, he was the son of the late Benedict and Margaret (Hausenberger) Blank. Mr. Blank was a retired fork lift operator for the Fort Pitt Foundry Company of McKeesport. He enjoyed playing pool, riding motorcycles, telling a good joke and was a big Elvis fan. He is survived by a sister, Carol Shea, a niece, Heather Stanoszek, and a nephew, Ben Geiger.
Per Mr. Blanks wishes there will be no visitation or services. Arrangements are entrusted to the William S. Skovranko Memorial Home Inc., 828 Richford Street, Duquesne.
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July 12, 2023 |
By Maloy-Schleifer Funeral Home | Posted in: Maloy-Schleifer Funeral Home
Fred John Long, a lifelong resident of Duquesne, PA, passed away on Wednesday, July 12, 2023, at the age of 89. Fred is a retired co-owner of Long’s Hauling Inc., located in West Mifflin, PA and had an incredible work ethic that he passed on to his surviving children and grandchildren. Fred leaves behind his beloved wife of 64 years, Jane Elizabeth (Connor) Long. Fred will join his deceased son, David Frederick Long, who passed tragically, at the age of 49. Fred is the loving father to Dianna Long and son-in-law Frank Pescatore of Penn Township and Brian Long and daughter-in-law, Karen Long, of Washington’s Crossing, Bucks County.
Known as a wonderful and comical grandfather to 10, he leaves behind Jessica (Dr. Charles) Gabbert, Ryan Long (Sarah), Jillian Long, Rebecca Long, Cassandra Long, Katie Rentz, Bria Long, Michael Long, Connor Long and Charlotte Long and great granddaughters Nora and Riley Gabbert. Fred cherished his time with his grandchildren. Fred is also the loving uncle to 37 nieces and nephews and has many great and great-great nieces and nephews and is known as the “happy go lucky,” funny uncle. Fred enjoyed time with many of his nieces and nephews with a special bond and was the comic force behind the family plays at “The Mountains” coordinated by his sister Louise.
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July 12, 2023 |
By Strifflers Family Funeral Homes | Posted in: Strifflers Family Funeral Homes
John M. Raevens, age 93, of McKeesport, PA, died on Sunday, July 9, 2023. He was born in Poperinge, Belgium on August 10, 1929 and is the son of the late Gaston and Anna Van Habost Raevens. He received his Doctorate in Music and taught as a professor of music for Duquesne University for 49 years. He was a world-renowned organist, where he played at the Vatican, throughout Europe (John received first prize in organ in Belgium), as well as at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C. He published a book titled, “Music: An Understanding and Enjoyment”. He also led the choir at various churches in the Pittsburgh area, including St. Germaine Church in Bethel Park, PA and Epiphany Church in Pittsburgh, PA. John loved nature and painting artwork, had a very strong faith in God, and had a great love for his family. He was a very warm and charismatic person and was well loved by everyone.
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July 11, 2023 |
By Finney Funeral Homes | Posted in: Finney Funeral Homes
Robert J. Lash, 75 of Jefferson Hills passed away on Saturday, July 8th, 2023 at Jefferson Hills Healthcare and Rehabilitation. He was born in Pittsburgh on October 21st, 1947 to the late Robert Lash and Susan Pollick. He is survived by his godchild Melissa Costa D’Souza, many cousins, and family members. He liked to live life alone, but when in social settings, he was full of life. He was a prolific writer and author. He had the uncanny ability to discern your interests and engage you in lively and spirited discussions in just about any topic. He was a product of his generation in many ways, but larger than life when it came to literary pursuits. To truly gain an appreciation of his life read one of his published short stories. Arrangements have been entrusted to S.M. FINNEY FUNERAL HOME, 432 N. 6th St, Clairton, PA 15025. Interment will occur at Ascension of our Lord Byzantine Cemetery in Clairton on Wednesday, July 12, 2023. In lieu of flowers the family requests memorial donations be made to Caring Hospice Services of Western PA at 118 Fox Plan Rd #1, Monroeville, PA 15146. Online condolences may be offered at www.finneyfuneralhome.com
July 11, 2023 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Frank M. Modrak, 91, of North Huntingdon, passed away Monday, July 10, 2023. He was born on the North Side of Pittsburgh on October 24, 1931, to John and Helen (Dzuba) Modrak. Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 60 years, Rose Marie (Kapisak), son, Frank Jr., son-in-law, Mark Capets, grandsons, Michael Modrak and Markie Capets, brother, John, twin sisters, Elizabeth and Mary, and stepmother, Susan (Kostrub). He is survived by his daughter, Deborah Capets, sons, Darrin and Larry (Beth), 13 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. Frank was an alumnus of Pittsburgh Central Catholic High School and the University of Pittsburgh GI Bill night school. He served as production manager of Mesta Machine Co., President of Apollo Fabricators and as a Project Engineer at Westinghouse Nuclear. He was proud to have been active in St. Agnes Parish and its Athletic Association in the late 60's and 70's serving as President of Church Council and the Athletic Association. Among other successes, he originated and organized the Men's Golf League, Elementary School Girls' Basketball League and a Children's Co-Ed Bowling League. He also served in the US Army during the Korean Conflict and was a member of the VFW Post 781 in Irwin. Frank often said he was blessed and enjoyed a great life with a loving and caring wife, wonderful children and grand and great-grandchildren, good neighbors and friends. His favorite verse was, "Planted a tree, raised a son, went to a Super Bowl and the Masters and had a hole-in-one." Man, what else is there? He will be sorely missed by us. As per his request, there will be no visitation. A Mass will be held on Friday at 9:30 a.m. in St. Agnes Church. Interment to follow in Penn Lincoln Memorial Park. Memorials may be made to the Muscular Dystrophy Association in memory of Frank. Arrangements made by James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon, PA 15642. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
July 11, 2023 |
By Jaycox-Jaworski Funeral Home - Crematory | Posted in: Jaycox-Jaworski Funeral Home & Crematory
Martin "Marty" Findura, age 78, of Coulters, died peacefully on July 9, 2023, at home surrounded by his family after a courageous battle with cancer. Born January 19, 1945, in McKeesport, he was the son of the late Stephan H. and Ethel (Barakman) Findura and the husband of Atna (Carper) Findura.
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July 11, 2023 |
By Jaycox-Jaworski Funeral Home - Crematory | Posted in: Jaycox-Jaworski Funeral Home & Crematory
Kenneth D. Carper, age 68, of Coulters, died peacefully on July 8, 2023, at Monroeville Rehab and Wellness Center, surrounded by his family. Born December 7, 1954, in McKeesport, he was the son of the late Walter L. and Atna E.(Koontz) Carper.
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July 11, 2023 |
By Willig Funeral Home | Posted in: Willig Funeral Home & Crematory
Christina M. Ruttenberg, age 37, of McKeesport, died July 2, 2023, at UPMC Presbyterian Hospital. Born November 18, 1985, in Pittsburgh, she was the daughter of the late Charles and Sharon (Kalchthaler) Ruttenberg. Christina is survived by a son, I'siah Ruttenberg; brother, Charles Ruttenberg; brother-in-law, Garret Roberts; sister-in-law, Erin Ruttenberg; nephews, Charles Ruttenberg, Jr., Joey Ruttenberg, and Jeremy Roberts; nieces, Madison Ruttenberg and Sierra Roberts. Christina is also survived by the King family, the Hanlin family, the Kalchthaler family, and the Anthony family. Arrangements were entrusted to Willig Funeral Home & Crematory. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.willigfuneralcremationservices.com. Charles Danforth, Supervisor
July 10, 2023 |
By Wojciechowski Funeral Home | Posted in: Wojciechowski Funeral Home
John P. Charmo, 69, of Glassport died July 6, 2023. He is the son of the late John S. and Domenica (Capaccia) Charmo. He is survived by his sons John Paul Charmo, Justin Paul Charmo and Joseph Patrick Charmo and grandchildren Cadan, Zoey, Hallie, Gianna and Mila. He was preceded in death by his uncle Joseph Capaccia. John was a retired Police Officer; former fire chief form Citizens Hose Co. #2; a member of the Knights of Columbus and a member of St. Joachim & Anne Parish. Friends received Wojciechowski Funeral Home, Glassport on Thurs. from2 to 4 and 6 to 8. A funeral blessing will be held Fri. 10:00 am in the funeral home. Interment following St. Clare Cemetery.
July 10, 2023 |
By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory
Salvatore Paul Mollise, age 80, of Elizabeth Twp., passed away on Monday, July 10, 2023. Sal was born at Mercy Hospital in Pittsburgh on March 25, 1943. Sal was the devoted husband of wife Nancy (Kovac) Mollise, who passed away in September 2022. Nancy and Sal would have celebrated their 55th wedding anniversary last September. Sal is survived by his three children, Maria (Robert Svedberg) Mollise of Atlanta, GA, Michele (Michael) Pirrone of Atlanta, GA, and Salvatore Paul (Jennifer Diak Bickerstaff) Mollise II of Elizabeth Twp.; sister, Barbara (Robert) Whiteacre of Washington, PA; sister-in-law, Dorothy Kovac of McKeesport; grandchildren, Jacob and Joseph Svedberg; stepgrandchildren, Clay, Trinity, Madison and Beau Pirrone. Sal was pre-deceased by his parents, Eleanor (Kaczmarski) Mollise and Frank “Peanuts” Mollise of West Mifflin; in-laws, Anna (Mital) Kovac and John Kovac; sisters-in-law, Charlotte and Joan Kovac; and brother-in-law, John “Fooz” Kovac, all of McKeesport.
Sal spent much of his childhood in the Polish South Side and Italian Lower Hill communities of Pittsburgh. Those cherished childhood memories brought comfort to Butchie (as he was known on the South Side) in recent years, as Parkinson's wreaked havoc over his body, mind and spirit.
Sal was a dedicated member of St. Michael Catholic Church of Elizabeth Township for more than 50 years. He truly enjoyed supporting the congregation by maintaining many John Deere tractors over the years for the church grounds, and also working with his fellow Ushers Club friends and neighbors.
Sal was an alum of Fifth Avenue, Epiphany, St. Adalbert’s and Homeville schools in Pittsburgh and graduated from Homestead High in 1961. After graduation, Sal served in the Army at Fort Benning, GA as a heavy vehicle driver between 1964 and 1966, achieving the rank of Private and receiving the National Defense Service Medal and Sharpshooter (Rifle M-14) Medal. Pvt. Mollise was Honorably discharged in December 1966 and returned to his loved ones in Pittsburgh.
Sal started his career in the trucking industry as a driver for Helms and Coca-Cola and later joined United Parcel Service as one of their early “feeder drivers.” While delivering packages for UPS along Penn Avenue in downtown Pittsburgh, he met his beloved Nancy. They wed, moved to “the country,” built their lifelong home in Elizabeth Township, raised their children, and chased Sal’s dream of being a farmer - raising Brittany Spaniels, ducks, chickens, a sheep, and other animals. During his career with UPS, Sal was awarded numerous accolades for his achievements as a feeder driver. He was known throughout the Pennsylvania and Ohio trucking routes by his CB handle, “Bird Dog.” He was a Mack Truck Million, Two Million and Three Million Miler inductee, driving his 18-wheeler hauling double trailers from the UPS Beaver Avenue hub in Pittsburgh to Harrisburg, and later from New Stanton to Harrisburg, and New Station to Columbus, OH. He set an extremely high bar with his intense work ethic, and was an inductee into the prestigious UPS Circle of Honor in 1990. His safety and driving expertise led to mentoring and training many new UPS drivers through the years. As an active and proud member for more than 40 years with the International Brotherhood of Teamsters Local 249 and Local 30, Sal participated in many 1970s-era transit-industry labor activities supporting his Teamster and union brothers and sisters in Pittsburgh. Sal retired after 38 years with UPS, having an impeccable safe driving record of more than 3 million miles.
Sal spent much of his time outside the truck cab ardently attending to his and Nancy’s beautifully manicured vegetable and flower gardens and lawns. Sal was an original member of the Elizabeth Township Sportsmen’s Club, and member of the Slovak American Beneficial & Sportsmen’s Club (HECLA), Disabled American Veterans, Elizabeth Township Seniors, and the American Legion.
The Mollise family expresses its sincere gratitude for the countless medical professionals who have helped and compassionately cared for Sal, including Elizabeth Township EMS, Central Volunteer Fire Department, Paramount Senior Living, and Suncrest Hospice.
Friends will be received in the Paul E. Bekavac Funeral Home, 221 North Second Avenue, Elizabeth on Wednesday, July 12, 2023 from 2-4 PM and 6-8 PM. Mass of Christian Burial will be Thursday, July 13 at St. Michael Church at 10 AM with Fr. Miroslaus Wojcicki officiating. Burial will follow in Round Hill Cemetery, Elizabeth Twp. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly suggests donations be made to Central Volunteer Fire Department, 425 Scenery Drive, Elizabeth, PA 15037, or Southeast Regional Emergency Medical Services Station 600, 2121 Century Drive, Jefferson Hills, PA 15025. Offer condolences at www.bekavacfuneralhome.com.
July 10, 2023 |
By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory
Wanda LaValle, age 92 of Clairton, passed away on Saturday, July 8, 2023 in Bethel Park Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. Born June 9, 1931 in Salt Lake City, UT, she was a daughter of the late Alonzo and Frances (Avon) Smith. A member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in Jefferson Hills, Wanda worked as a nurse's aide at McKeesport Hospital. She also volunteered at St. Clare Elementary School and was a member of the Croatian Fraternal Union Lodge # 248, both of Clairton.
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July 10, 2023 |
By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory
Yong Ja Saccone, age 64 of Elizabeth Twp., passed away on Saturday, July 8, 2023 in Canterbury Place, Pittsburgh. Born February 3, 1959 in South Korea, she was a daughter of Chae Oh Kang and Sun Nim Chong. A member of Spirit Chapel, Yong was the owner and head aerobics instructor of Yong's Aerobics. She is survived by her husband Dr. Richard Saccone; her sons Nick (Yeon Hee) Saccone of Arlington, VA and Matthew (Shannon) Saccone of Clinton; her grandchildren Arianna Elizabeth, Giovanni, and Julianna Maria Saccone; her siblings; and also her nieces and nephews.
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