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Gladys Hunt-Mason

January 15, 2025 |

By Strifflers Family Funeral Homes | Posted in: Strifflers Family Funeral Homes

Gladys Hunt-Mason, age 83 of White Oak, PA died peacefully on January 13, 2025, surrounded by her family. Born in McKeesport, PA on July 27, 1941, she was the daughter of the late Nathan Hunt, Sr. and Ernestine Nelson Hunt.

 
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Harry P. Santoline, Jr.

January 15, 2025 |

By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory

Harry P. Santoline, Jr., age 69 of South Fayette Twp., passed away at home on Monday, January 13, 2025 after a brief illness. Born April 17, 1955 in McKeesport, he was a son of the late Harry P. Santoline, Sr. and Betty J. (Covelli) Santoline. A graduate of Clairton High School Class of 1973, Harry also received a bachelor's degree in Administration of Justice from the University of Pittsburgh. He worked as an ATM Tech for Brooks Armored Car and retired from Dick's Sporting Goods in Smithton. Harry had a very strong Christian faith and was an active member of The Table Church in Upper St. Clair. As the eldest cousin of his generation of a large Italian family, Harry enjoyed attending and hosting family gatherings. Harry had a great love and knowledge of music and Pittsburgh sports, amassing large vinyl and sports memorabilia collections. He will always be remembered for his dry sense of humor and the perfect witticism for any moment. But his greatest pride and pleasure was spending time with his cherished grandsons. Harry is survived by his wife Linda (Morris) Santoline; his daughters Kellie (William) Passodelis, Jr. of Upper St. Clair and Kristen (Sean) Polosky of Mt. Lebanon; his grandsons William III "Tripp" and Wyatt Passodelis, and Cooper Polosky; his siblings Sharon (John) Matz of Mt. Lebanon and Jeffrey (Kathy) Santoline of Clairton; and also nieces and nephews.

 
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Betty J. Morrison

January 14, 2025 |

By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory

Betty J. (Chutis) Morrison, age 88, of Elizabeth, passed away on Tuesday, January 14, 2025 at Jefferson Hospital. She was a member of St. Joachim and Anne Parish, St. Michael Church in Elizabeth Twp. She enjoyed knitting and sewing and was a member of several local quilting clubs. Born November 21, 1936 in Elizabeth, she was a daughter of the late John and Mamie (O'Dell) Chutis and wife of the late James R. Morrison Sr. She is survived by her sons, James (Mary Ellen) Morrison Jr. of Murrysville, John M. "Mike" (Debbie) Morrison of Elizabeth, Harry (Peggy) Morrison of Elizabeth Twp. and Thomas (Amanda) Morrison of Kissimmee, FL; 13 grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; sister, Bobbi (Gerry) Reisenaur of Elizabeth; also, nieces and nephews. Friends will be received in the Paul E. Bekavac Funeral Home, 221 North Second Avenue, Elizabeth on Friday, January 17, 2025 from 4-7 PM. No services are planned. Private burial will be in Elizabeth Cemetery. Offer condolences at www.bekavacfuneralhome.com.

 


Patricia Anne "Pat" Smith

January 14, 2025 |

By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory

Patricia Anne "Pat" Smith, 84, of Greenock, went home to be with her Savior on Sunday, January 12, 2025.  She was born April 10, 1940 in Glassport and was the daughter of Charles C. and Blanche S. (Sikorski) Barchanowicz.  She was the devoted wife of 54 years to the late Donald William Smith, who passed away November 30, 2013. Pat was a woman of great faith and loved the Lord and was a member of Park Baptist Church in Versailles.  She was an avid gardener of flowers, whose green thumb has kept a Christmas Cactus around since 1968. She was a lover of animals, especially cats. She was a homebody, who loved her home and all the visiting animals and the garden she grew. Pat was dedicated to her family, who were her whole life. She was a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, who wanted to always make sure her family knew how much she loved them.  She will be greatly missed.

 
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Janice Cray McGinn Byars

January 14, 2025 |

By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory

Janice Cray McGinn Byars, age 86, passed away peacefully on January 11, 2025 surrounded by her loved ones. Born in McKeesport, Janice lived a full and vibrant life, leaving a lasting impact on everyone she met. She was the eldest of five siblings in the Cray family, which includes Nancy, Tommy, Kathleen, and John. Janice married her high school sweetheart, Captain Francis Patrick (Pat) McGinn. Together, they navigated Pat’s career in the US Air Force, NASA, and Eastern Airlines, raising three children: Patrick, who is married to April and has two sons, Patrick married to Patty and Jonny; Kathy, who is married to Brad Gregg and has two children, Stuart and Meghan married to Chase Penland with a son, Graham; and Mike, who is married to Brandi with three children, Brittan, Michael, and Sarah Blaine. After Pat’s passing in 1980, Janice dedicated her life to raising her children and supporting them through college.  She was blessed to find love once more when she married Charles “Chuck” Byars. She wholeheartedly embraced her new role as “Mimi” to Chuck’s children, Kelly, Jeff, and Keith, as well as his grandchildren: Tyler, Taylor, and Tate Stanford; Lindsey, Sarah, and Matt Byars. Her nurturing spirit created a joyful and loving extended family, where she cherished every moment spent with each one. Her life was filled with joy and activity. She had a passion for entertaining, cooking, sewing, and playing cards, especially with her grandchildren. Janice was also an avid tennis player and enjoyed sharing laughter and the occasional glass of wine with friends and loved ones. Her lively spirit and welcoming home were the heart of many gatherings, making her presence a constant source of joy and comfort. Janice was a devout member of the Catholic Church, where she played the organ and served as musical director for over 30+ years. Her faith was unwavering, and she served as a dedicated and faithful servant of the Lord.  Her commitment to her church and her community was evident in everything she did, embodying the principles of her faith in all aspects of her life. Janice's love, kindness, and vibrant spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew her. She leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and devotion. In lieu of flowers, donations in Janice’s honor can be made to Saint Peter the Rock Catholic Church in Thomaston, GA www.stpetertherock.com/donate. Offer condolences at www.bekavacfuneralhome.com.

 


Donald James Kistler

January 14, 2025 |

By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory

Donald James Kistler, 87, of Elizabeth Township, passed away Monday, January 13, 2025. He was the son of the late John G. and Ruth (Piper) Kistler, and was born on the Kistler Farm in Washington Township, Westmoreland County on July 19, 1937. He was married to his loving wife Millie for 55 years and was a longtime resident at the home he and Millie built on the hill overlooking Boston, PA.

 
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Joshua Kaleb Chuha

January 13, 2025 |

By Maloy-Schleifer Funeral Home | Posted in: Maloy-Schleifer Funeral Home

Joshua Kaleb Chuha, age 43, of West Mifflin, passed away on Sunday, January 12, 2025. Born in Pittsburgh on February 18, 1981, he is the son of Laura Jane “LJ” (Bowers) Chuha of West Mifflin and the late Richard Chuha. He was a bridge draftsman, enjoyed attending musical concerts and was so loved by his family and his friends. Besides his mother, he is survived by his sister, Molly McLane (John) Caterino; nephews, Gunner Caterino and Lorenzo Caterino; and aunts, uncles and many cousins.

There will be no visitation or funeral. Arrangements entrusted to the MALOY-SCHLEIFER FUNERAL HOME, INC., 915 KENNEDY AVE., DUQUESNE, 412-466-3300, WILLIAM B. SCHLEIFER, SUPERVISOR, WILLIAM BRIAN SCHLEIFER, FUNERAL DIRECTOR.

 


Paul Raymond Herbert

January 13, 2025 |

By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory

It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of our uncle, brother-in-law, and friend Paul R. Herbert who passed quietly at the age of 91 at his home in Carmel Indiana. He was the husband of the late Eleanor L. Whiteman Herbert. They were married for 64 years and were devoted Christians. He was born in Frank, Pennsylvania on August 2, 1933, to Mary and Clyde Herbert Sr. He was preceded in death by sisters, Mary Margaret Weston, (Col. Logan), Betty Jo Handley, (Donald), Reta Thorne, (Alfred), and brothers Clyde (Si) Herbert Jr., (Irene), and Robert (Bob) Herbert, (Dorothy). He is survived by sisters-in-law Dr. Anne Rosche of Sunnyvale California, and Marge Aukerman of Webster New York.

 
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Alvin P. Decker

January 13, 2025 |

By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory

Alvin P. Decker, 93 of McKeesport, after an 18-month battle with glioblastoma, it is with a broken heart to announce his passing on January 10, 2025. He was born on July 11, 1931, in Summerhill Township to Daniel and Leola (Flick) Decker. He was the husband of the late Betty Decker and grandfather to the late Joshua Decker. He is survived by daughter and son-in-law, Alberta Decker and Paul Paterra, with whom he resided; and grandfather of Stacy Decker of North Huntingdon.

Raised in McKeesport, he graduated from McKeesport High School in 1949 as valedictorian. Met his wife while working at McKeesport Baking Company and married in 1950. He served as a sergeant in the U.S. Army seeing conflict at Heartbreak Ridge and Christmas Tree Hill during the Korean War. Upon returning home, he spent his career as the specifications engineer for U.S. Steel, National Tube. After retirement he spent the next 23 years as a volunteer in the cafeteria of St. Joseph Regional School in Port Vue preparing and serving lunch to the students and staff.

 
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Michael G. Settelmaier

January 13, 2025 |

By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory

Michael G. Settelmaier, age 60, of Elrama, passed away on Sunday, January 12, 2025 at home. He was a security guard at the Department of Energy in South Park. He was a member and treasurer of Elrama Volunteer Fire Company. He enjoyed Pittsburgh sports, NASCAR, and spending time with friends and family, especially his granddaughter. Born April 3, 1964 in Pittsburgh, he was a son of the late Eugene E. and Lucille (Gildea) Settelmaier and husband of the late Kathy D. (Jeffers) Settelmaier. He is survived by his son, Tyler M. (Alyssa) Settelmaier of Warren; granddaughter, Reese Settelmaier; sister, Lynn Nikolas of West Homestead; brother, Kevin Settelmaier of Scott Twp.; sisters-in-law, Mary Teresa Settelmaier of South Park and Phylis Jeffers of Elizabeth; brothers-in-law, Scott (Cheryl) Jeffers of Monongahela and Steve (Darlene) Jeffers of Elizabeth Twp.; also, nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins. In addition to his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by sister, Deborah Ann Settelmaier, and brother, Eugene Settelmaier. Friends will be received in the Paul E. Bekavac Funeral Home, 221 North Second Avenue, Elizabeth, on Wednesday, January 15, 2025 from 4-8 PM. A funeral service will be Thursday, January 16, 2025 at 10 AM in the funeral home chapel with Pastor Jude Urso officiating. Burial will follow in Jefferson Memorial Park, Pleasant Hills. Memorial contributions may be made to Elrama Volunteer Fire Company, 17 Elrama Avenue, Elrama, PA 15038. Offer condolences at www.bekavacfuneralhome.com.

 


Mary Ellen "Mimi" Ference

January 13, 2025 |

By Teichart-Gracan Funeral Home | Posted in: Teichart-Gracan Funeral Home

 

Mary Ellen Ference (Mimi), a woman of many scarves, passed away in the early morning on Fri., Jan. 10, 2025, at the age of 86.  She was a long time resident of West Mifflin, where her favorite spot was her front porch.  She welcomed anyone at any time to come sit on her porch and talk about life.  Mary Ellen, also known as Mimi, became a mother to all, and her door was always open.  She loved having her grandkids running in and out taking candy out of her candy jar, or grabbing a Klondike bar, or a donut, which was her favorite snack, no matter the time of the day.  She will be missed by all.  She is the daughter of the late Charles and Margaret (Duffy)  Barker and beloved wife of the late Michael “Buddy” Ference.  She is survived by her children Michelle (Michael) Martin, Steve (Kelly) Ference and Michael (Kathleen) Ference; grandchildren Michelle (John) Reynolds, Abbe Danlovich, Raychel Kovac, Kierstin Ference, Kelsey Ference, Andrea Ference, Michael Kamouyerou, Andreas Kamouyerou and Sophia Kamouyerou; great grandchildren Dylan Reynolds, Jeffery Nichols, Gavin Reynolds, Jordan Nebinski, Soph (JR) Nebinski, Jayce Nebinski, Liam Young, Delilah Ortiz, Leila Kamouyerou and Mila Kamouyerou; brother Charles Barker; sister Nancy Gribble; also many nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her son Kenneth Ference; daughter-in-law Darla Ference; great great granddaughter Ta’Layah Nichols; brother Richard “Ebby” Barker and sister Ann “Levitte” Haas.  Mary Ellen was a member of the First Evangelical Free Church in McKeesport.  A private visitation was held at the Teichart-Gracan Funeral Home.  A public funeral service will be held on Thurs. 11:00 am at the First Evangelical Free Church in McKeesport with Pastor Kevin Labby.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude’s Childrens Research Hospital.

 


Michael Thomas Rapach

January 12, 2025 |

By Administrator | Posted in: William S. Skovranko Memorial Home

Michael Thomas Rapach, 71, of Cranberry Township, PA, formerly of Duquesne, died peacefully December 7, 2024, at his home in Cranberry Township. Born in Duquesne on September 21, 1953, he was the son of the late Michael and Constance (Kushnir) Rapach. He is survived by his brother Luke M. (Ronna) Rapach and nieces Natalie (Mack) Lobdell, Emily and Melanie Rapach, great nephew Jude Lobdell, aunt Joy Kushnir, cousin Bernard S. (Shay) Kushnir  and many other cousins and extended family. He will be sadly missed by all.

Michael was a 1971 graduate of Duquesne High School.  He attended the University of Pittsburgh and received his undergraduate Bachelor of Arts (Russian language) degree in 1975 and Master of Education degree in 1985.  He was a proud member of the Phi Beta Kappa honorary society. He also received his gifted education certificate in1985.

Michael taught gifted education and languages at Waynesburg Central High School for 26 years and retired from teaching in 2011 as chair of the foreign language department. He had also previously taught in the Duquesne School District, in both substitute and full-time capacities upon college graduation. Some of his fondest teaching memories were the field trips that he took with his students. He always enjoyed hearing from his former students and kept in touch with many of them after his retirement.

 
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Sheila Diane Johnson

January 12, 2025 |

By Administrator | Posted in: Robert A. Waters Funeral Home

Sheila Diane Johnson, affectionately known as “She She” to her beloved grandchildren, passed away peacefully on December 29, 2024, at the age of 80. Born on December 3, 1944, in McKeesport, Pennsylvania, Sheila was the cherished daughter of the late Hays and Ruth Caldwell.

Sheila grew up in Clairton, Pennsylvania, and graduated from Clairton High School before she trained as a computer operator. She went on to work at UPMC in Pittsburgh PA, where she proudly held a computer operator position until her retirement.

A woman of joy, style, and resilience, Sheila loved dancing, dressing up, and spending nights out with friends. Known for her sharp wit and straight-shooting advice, Sheila was the confidant and spiritual guide many turned to in difficult times. Her faith and wisdom were embodied in her favorite sayings, such as “God helps those who help themselves” and “Chuuuch,” phrases that remain etched in the hearts of all who knew her.

 
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Minetta Alyse Scott

January 12, 2025 |

By Administrator | Posted in: Robert A. Waters Funeral Home

Minetta Alyse Scott, 72, of McKeesport, was born January 6, 1952, in Duquesne, PA. She was the beloved daughter of the late Luther and Beatrice (Jeffries) Daviston.

Minetta attended and graduated from Duquesne High School. Minetta worked as a caregiver in a daycare center.

Minetta enjoys walking, loves to cook for her family, and plays games on her tablet.

Minetta attended Jerusalem Baptist Church in Duquesne, PA with her family.

 
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Richard James Henry IV

January 12, 2025 |

By Administrator | Posted in: Obituary

Richard James Henry IV, 75 of Fort Wayne passed away December 23, 2024. He was born August 22, 1949 in Akron, Ohio to parents Richard James Henry III and Dorothy Mae (Baker) Henry. Richard lived most of his life in McKeesport, Pennsylvania and Clearwater, Florida. He recently moved to Fort Wayne to be closer to his family.

Richard worked for many years as a Certified Nursing Assistant. He enjoyed collecting antiques, dancing and going to the beach.

Richard is survived by his children Richard James Henry V, Christopher (Ernestine) Henry, Leah (Victor) Francisco, Robin Henry and Ashley Schulze. He is also survived by 9 grandchildren and many nieces, nephews, grand nieces and grand nephews. Richard was preceded in death by his brothers William (Dayle) Henry, Darryl (Kathy) Henry and Kevin (Mary) Henry. His sisters Linda Christian and Audrey (Kenneth) Hamlin also preceded him in death. Private services.

Family request memorial donations be made in Richard's name to The American Heart Association.

Arrangements by Midwest Funeral Home, Fort Wayne, Indiana.