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.
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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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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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.
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.
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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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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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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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.
January 12, 2025 |
By Administrator | Posted in: Robert A. Waters Funeral Home
Algie Washington Daniels, 95, formally of Duquesne, Pennsylvania, departed this life peacefully on January 6, 2025, at Kane Community Living Center of McKeesport, PA.
Born May 15, 1929, in Buffalo Junction, Virginia to the late James Elmore and Betty (Spencer) Daniels.
He was a graduate of the Duquesne High School Class of 1949. Following graduation, he worked for the United States Steel Duquesne Works until the corporation closed in 1984.
Algie was a family man, he loved his wife, children, grandchildren, and his nieces and nephews.
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January 12, 2025 |
By Administrator | Posted in: Obituary
Karen Ruth Salsgiver Long of Bellefonte, Pennsylvania died peaceably at Mount Nittany Medical Center in State College, Pennsylvania on January 7, 2025 with her husband at her bedside. Karen was born July 6, 1941 in Gilpin Twp. (Leechburg, Pennsylvania) to the late Neill and Jean Rausch Salsgiver. She graduated from Leechburg High School in 1959. She married the love of her life William (Bill) Long January 2, 1981 in the Old Stone Church in Monroeville recently celebrating 44 years of marriage.
Together they owned and operated B & K Ceramics and Ambassador Cards and Gifts in North Versailles, Pennsylvania before moving to State College. Karen retired in 2004 after 20 plus years in the Acquisitions Department of the Pattee Paterno Library at Penn State University. Then after retirement, worked at Barbara’s (now Christine’s) Hallmark in State College for 6 years. Everyone knew Karen by her unique laugh.
Karen was of Presbyterian faith belonging to Sampson Mills Church in White Oak Borough where she loved singing in the choir. When her children were young, she was a Girl Scout Leader and Cub Scout Den Mother in White Oak. She was secretary for the Glen at Paradise Hills North Condo Owners Association in Bellefonte. She was an avid reader, doing all kinds of arts, crafts, and puzzles. She enjoyed going to Silver Sneakers and playing Mahjong with her girlfriends. She loved dancing with her husband and enjoyed all sports especially Penn State athletics, Pittsburgh Pirates, Steelers and Penguins.
In addition to her husband she is survived by her children, Tammy (Gregg) Purinton of Pittsburgh and Mark (Debbie deceased) Newman of North Versailles. Also surviving are 4 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren. Also surviving are her mother-in-law Virginia Riazzi Long of White Oak, brother-in-law Kenny Long and Eugene Ferraccio with many nieces and nephews. In addition to her late parents, she was predeceased by her sister Kathleen Ferraccio of North Versailles.
Per Karen’s wishes there will be no services. Final arrangements will be made by Haky Georgiana Centre County Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers contributions can be made to Bellefonte Food Bank c/o Faith Centre, 131 South Allegheny Street, Bellefonte, PA 16823
An online guestbook may be signed and condolences left for the family at www.hakygeorgianafh.com.
January 12, 2025 |
By Jaycox-Jaworski Funeral Home - Crematory | Posted in: Jaycox-Jaworski Funeral Home & Crematory
It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Jane E. Contrella, who died on January 10, 2025, at age 87, of Elizabeth Twp., at Concordia of Franklin Park. Born August 29, 1937, in McKeesport, she was the daughter of the late John and Sophie (Dudek) Pasternak and wife of the late Richard D. Contrella.
Jane was a homemaker and dedicated her life to caring for her family and home. She was a member of Holy Family Polish National Catholic Church of McKeesport, where Jane was a member of the Ladies Adoration Society, taught Sunday School for over 25 years, and was a Pierogi Pincher. She enjoyed ocean cruises, baking her famous nut rolls, and was a great seamstress in her early years.
A cherished mother, Jane lived a life filled with love, compassion, and grace, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of all who had the privilege to know her.
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January 12, 2025 |
By Jaycox-Jaworski Funeral Home - Crematory | Posted in: Jaycox-Jaworski Funeral Home & Crematory

Cynthia L. Radinovic, age 70, of McKeesport, died on January 9, 2025, at Forbes Hospital. Born October 18, 1954, in Fairbanks, Alaska, she was the daughter of Barbara (Knight) and the late Armando "Al" Buti and wife of the late Larry Radinovic.
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January 11, 2025 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Nicholas “Nick” Mario Denardo, 75, of Port Vue, passed away at home on Saturday, January 11, 2025. He was born on August 14, 1949 in McKeesport and was the son of the late Dominic and Josephine (DiGiannantonio) Denardo. Nick retired from US Steel Clairton Works after over 30 years. He was a member of Park Baptist Church in Versailles Boro, where he also was on the Security Team and a member of the Men’s Prayer Group. He was also a Treasurer of Elizabeth Township Sportsman’s Association, Past President of Clairton Works Federal Credit Union and of USS Local 1557 Union, he was also a member of the Polish Club, Archer Hill Bowling League and Pastrik’s Bowling and Golf Leagues and the Mon Yough Church Dartball League.
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January 10, 2025 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home

Todd M. Carolan, age 55 of North Huntingdon, passed away on January 9, 2025. He was born on July 9, 1969 in Greensburg, a son of the late John Francis Carolan Jr. and Jacqueline Smaligo Carolan. Todd was a graduate of Norwin High School in the Class of 1987, and he went on to become a driving instructor and owner of A1 Driver Training School. Todd always looked forward to working in his Thumbprint Sculpture Studio as a sculptor of clay and resin models of horror figurines. He enjoyed listening to music and watching horror movies, and he cherished his collection of vintage G.I. Joe action figures. Todd loved to read (especially Stephen King novels), and he was renowned for his knowledge of World War II history. He was also a talented tattoo artist. In addition to his parents, Todd was preceded in death by his son Killian Carolan, and one sister Brianne Huey. He is survived by his beloved wife Nancy (Blinkhorn) Carolan, two daughters Felicia Berkepile (Dan) and Alley Scott (Mike), one brother Shawn Carolan (Susan), one sister Heather Herr (Bryan), his father-in-law Robert Blinkhorn and mother-in-law Nancy Blinkhorn, his aunt Mary Ann Wingert, and numerous nieces and nephews. Friends will be received at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home on Tuesday from 2 PM to 4 PM with a service beginning at 4 PM. Afterwards, guests are welcomed to join the family from 4 PM to 8 PM in the nearby Moments Event Hall for refreshments, where Todd's artwork will be on exhibit. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be given to the Carolan family. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com