Goldie L. Kass
February 18, 2026 |
By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory
Donna M. DeFrances
February 18, 2026 |
By Willig Funeral Home | Posted in: Willig Funeral Home & Crematory
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Donna M. DeFrances, age 69, of McKeesport, who left us on February 14, 2026. Born on April 26, 1956, in McKeesport, Donna was the beloved daughter of the late Lawrence and Amelia (Gregory) Jordan, and the wife of the late Milton DeFrances.
Donna dedicated her life to caring for others as a retired CNA from Riverside Care Center in McKeesport, following her time at the former Briarcliff of Irwin. She was truly the heart of her family, known for her incredible baking and her talent for hosting holiday gatherings. Donna had a special way of ensuring that everyone felt loved and left with full bellies. Her warmth and generosity will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew her. She leaves behind a legacy of love and kindness.
Shirley H. Lang
February 18, 2026 |
By Jaycox-Jaworski Funeral Home - Crematory | Posted in: Jaycox-Jaworski Funeral Home & Crematory
Shirley H. Lang, age 91, of Hamilton Township, NJ, formerly of White Oak, passed away on February 14, 2026, at Serenity Hospice Care in New Jersey. Born June 27, 1934, in Duquesne, she was the daughter of the late William and Marcella (Dominici) Blotzer and the wife of the late John M. Lang, Sr.
Shirley's journey was one of love and dedication. After raising her family, she enjoyed a fulfilling chapter as a dedicated member of the workforce at the Community College of Allegheny County. A woman of immense talent and grace, she shared her passion for music as a member of the choir at St. Robert Bellarmine Church, where her voice lifted the spirits of many.
In her leisure time, Shirley found joy in antiquing and gardening, activities through which she expressed her creativity and appreciation for beauty. However, her greatest joy came from spending time with her family, creating memories that will be treasured for generations to come.
She is survived by her children, John M. (Marie Noelle Sayan) Lang Jr., Daniel J. (Noako) Lang, Christine (John Gluscic) Lang, Roberta Lang, Sandy (James) Lang-Anderson; daughter-in-law, Laura Lang; 17 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren.
In addition to her parents and husband, she was also preceded in death by a granddaughter, Kylie Lang-Gluscic; brothers, William, John, Robert, Richard, and Daniel Blotzer.
Family and friends will be received at Jaycox-Jaworski Funeral Home & Crematory on Sunday, February 22, 2026, from 4 to 6 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, 10 a.m. at Mary, Mother of God Parish, St. Angela Merici Church. The burial will follow at Good Shepherd Cemetery. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.jaycox-jaworskifh.com.
Chris Odasso, Supervisor
Stephen J. Fekete
February 18, 2026 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Stephen J. Fekete, age 59 of Westmoreland City, died February 18, 2026, at Independence Health Westmoreland Hospital. He was born Sept 9, 1966, in Plainfield, New Jersey, a son of Judy A. Churly Fekete and the late John Fekete. Stephen was a member of St. Nicholas Byzantine Church in McKeesport. He was employed by ARC, the Blind Association and also Paula Teacher and Associates. Stephen enjoyed wrestling, coloring and art projects. In addition to his mother, he is survived by two brothers, Robert (Susan), Christopher (Jamie), nieces and nephews, Brice, Reese, Sarah, Julie and Michael., aunts, uncles and cousins. There will be no public visitation. A service will be held at a later date. The family wishes to extend a special thank you to Excela Hospice and Passavant Memorial Home for their care and compassion to Stephen. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to All But Furgotten, 70 Carpenter Lane, Irwin, Pa 15642. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com.
Paula Ann Helsel
February 18, 2026 |
By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory
It is with profound sadness that Paula passed away on February 17, 2026, 6 months after being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. She chose to release her spirit with her daughter by her side, on the Lunar New Year, symbolizing a fresh start for her new state of being. A devoted and courageous single mother, Paula was dearly loved by her daughter Lisa Bennington (Brad Korinski) and her granddaughter Emma. She enjoyed gardening and picking mulberries with Emma. Emma worked alongside her grandmother attempting to fulfill Paula’s dream of growing a corn field and a blueberry patch in our city backyard (it did not work). We all enjoyed fireworks on her balcony for the 4th of July. She delighted in trying new recipes with ratatouille being her best. A consumer of all things “witchy,” she was also an intuitive tarot card reader.
Mary M. Zaken
February 18, 2026 |
By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory
Mary M. Zaken, age 90, of Elizabeth, passed away Sunday, February 15, 2026 in Jefferson Hospital. She was a member of Ascension of Our Lord Byzantine Catholic Church in Clairton where she enjoyed volunteering. She was a former secretary for Clairton High School, a former lunch aide at Elizabeth Elementary School, and a member of GAA of Clairton High School. She was an excellent baker and chef and made the world’s best cabbage rolls. She loved being involved with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Born August 10, 1935 in Clairton, she was a daughter of the late John and Mary (Faron) Kovalyak and wife of the late George Zaken. She is survived by her daughter, Diane (Robert) Zaken Stecik of Forward Twp.; sons, George “Bucky” (Kathleen Moran) Zaken of Farmington, Kevin (Patricia Bucy) Zaken of North Huntingdon and Karl Zaken of Elizabeth; grandchildren, Devon, Paris, Kortnee, Erin, Joshua and Lindsey; great-grandchildren, Kamden and Lyla; brothers, Joseph Kovalyak of Palm Coast, FL and James Kovalyak of Easley, SC; also, nieces and nephews. There will be a funeral liturgy at Ascension of Our Lord Byzantine Catholic Church in Clairton on Saturday, February 21, 2026 at 10 AM with Fr. Chris Burke officiating. EVERYONE PLEASE MEET AT CHURCH. Burial will follow in Ascension Cemetery, Clairton. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Ascension of Our Lord Byzantine Catholic Church, 318 Park Avenue, Clairton, PA 15025. Offer condolences at www.bekavacfuneralhome.com.
David Daniel Daley
February 18, 2026 |
By Jaycox-Jaworski Funeral Home - Crematory | Posted in: Jaycox-Jaworski Funeral Home & Crematory
David Daniel Daley, age 61, of McKeesport, died February 16, 2026, at AHN Jefferson Hospital. Born June 2, 1964, in McKeesport, he was the son of the late Daniel and Jean (Rodman) Daley and husband of Danielle (Bishop) Daley for 26 years.
David graduated from McKeesport High School in 1982. He proudly played on the high school baseball team and continued his passion as a member of the American Legion and Daily News Leagues. His love for the sport was rivaled only by his unwavering support for his favorite teams: the Pittsburgh Steelers, Penguins, and Pirates.
Among the many things David cherished, nothing compared to the memories made with his family. Together, they found joy in the simple pleasures of life: the Sunday concert series at Renzie Park, family vacations in Ocean City, and spirited card games that often filled their home with laughter and good-natured competition.
In addition to his wife Danielle, he is survived by a son, Daniel Daley; and by Jesse and Joey Waggoner, who he raised with unwavering love and devotion; siblings, Cheryl Flohr and John (Linda) Daley, and many nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by a brother, Charles Flohr.
Family and friends will be received at Jaycox-Jaworski Funeral Home & Crematory on Friday, February 20, 2026, from noon until the funeral service at 5 p.m. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.jaycox-jaworskifh.com.
Chris Odasso, Supervisor
Pedro Magorra Daracan
February 18, 2026 |
By Willig Funeral Home | Posted in: Willig Funeral Home & Crematory
We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Pedro Magorra Daracan, who left us peacefully at home on February 15, 2026, at the age of 61. Born on November 4, 1964, in Cagayan Valley, Philippines, Pedro was the beloved husband of Glyna Empasis Daracan and the son of the late Juan and Maria (Magorra) Daracan.
Pedro was a proud Marine and served in the Philippines Navy, dedicating his life to serving his country. After his military career, he continued his commitment to public service by working in the Philippines Congress. His recent achievement of becoming a United States resident was a moment of immense pride for him, as he embraced his new home while holding onto his roots.
As a devoted Roman Catholic, Pedro found joy in his faith and was known for being the life of the party. Whether it was belting out karaoke tunes with friends, capturing life's special moments through photography, or simply enjoying time with family, Pedro lived life to the fullest.
James D. Rankin
February 17, 2026 |
By Administrator | Posted in: Obituary
James D. Rankin, age 66, passed on to heaven from his ranch, Highland Rise, in Austin County, Texas, on Feb 17, 2026, from pancreatic cancer.
Born July 8, 1959 in McKeesport, PA, a descendant of the Founders of America, Jim left his historic home and job as editor of the local paper to move to Texas in 1995 to marry his childhood love, Carolyn Shaw (Huebner).
Jim’s first desire was medicine, with a BA in Science from University of Texas, he taught Human Anatomy at Lanier High School for seventeen years, moving on to Round Top/Carmine and retiring from Columbus H.S in 2023.
Jim loved the Lord Jesus and received his ordination as a minister in 2006, forming Rankin Family Ministries, Inc in 2007. He also received his Chaplain commision from Texas University of Theology in 2025, Badge #4995.
Barbara Gail Fulmer
February 17, 2026 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Barbara Gail Fulmer, 91, of Clairton passed away on Monday, February 16, 2026. She was born in McKeesport on August 17, 1934 to the late Edward and Gladys (Grice) Hoak. Barbara was a peaceful soul, who lived a long, enduring life. Her quiet strength, spirit and humble demeanor were the navigating force throughout her long and modest life. These tender characteristics and her enduring faith in the Lord gave her the ability and fortitude to successfully nurture nine children.
Ronald N. “Doc” Rascati
February 17, 2026 |
By Finney Funeral Homes | Posted in: Finney Funeral Homes
Ron attended Clairton High School, where he excelled at baseball, and then went on to Tufts University and School of Dental Medicine. While in college, he worked summers in the steel mills and often made house calls with his father to people in need of medical care. It was in Boston that he met his courageous and loving wife, Jeanne. Upon finishing his studies, they returned to Clairton where he established a dental practice in his childhood home at 502 Walnut Avenue.
Ron was a huge sports enthusiast. Besides baseball and the Pittsburgh Pirates, the Boston Celtics and the Pittsburgh Penguins, his number one team was always the Pittsburgh Steelers. He held season tickets as far back to their playing days at Forbes Field!
Ron looked forward to lunch breaks at the ping pong table upstairs from his office. Also, he learned to play racquetball in his 40’s, played an occasional round of golf, and loved to test his passion for statistics at the blackjack table. (It’s also been rumored that he taught his grandchildren how to count with a deck of cards and some poker chips!)
After moving from their beloved home parish at St Paulinus in Clairton to their new home in Jefferson Boro, Ron and Jeanne settled into nearly 50 years of service at their new home parish of St. Thomas a’Becket. Ron’s skill at blackjack made him a natural fit to run the blackjack table at the church festival for 20+ years.
He had special bonds with each of his children and grandchildren. He found great joy in supporting their special events and athletic activities. He shared with them his passion for Civil War history, and also his special devotion to Our Blessed Mother. His children especially appreciated his gifts of patience, and guidance without lecture. The way he lived his Catholic faith was an inspiration to all of them.
Ron is pre-deceased by his wife of 59 years, Jeanne, his parents, Ernest and Bess, his brothers, Ernie and Tony, and his beloved granddaughter Ali, who was the sparkle in his eye, his constant companion, a special caregiver, and fellow sports enthusiast, who brought him tremendous joy and gave purpose to his life in his elder years.
He is survived by his eight children: Ann Rascati (John Cartwright) of Barnstable, MA, Steven Rascati of Vero Beach, FL, David Rascati (Annette) of Jefferson Boro, PA, Thomas Rascati, of Palawan, the Philippines, Jeanne Marie Shuey of Clairton, PA, Amy Alperi (Steve) of Davidson, NC, Teresa Kunzmann (Carl) of Adams Township, PA and Ernest Rascati (Sherri) of West Mifflin, PA. Ron is also survived by his adoring grandchildren: Jessica, Michael, Tomas, John, Daniel, Natalie, Max, Christina, Emma, Peter and Will, and by his spirited great-grandchildren: Aidan, Wesley, Penelope, Leiliana, Emmett, Mikayla, Lucy and Flynn. He also loved and was loved in return by many nieces, nephews and bonus family.
A wake will be held at S.M. FINNEY FUNERAL HOME, 432 N. 6th St, Clairton, PA 15025 on Friday, February 20 from 5:00 to 8:00 PM, with a Mass of Christian burial to be held at St. Thomas a’Becket Catholic Church, 139 Gill Hall Road, Jefferson Hills, PA 15025 at 10:00 AM on Saturday, February 21. Interment at Jefferson Memorial Cemetery will take place immediately following the Mass. All guests are invited to join a luncheon at The Georgetown Centre at 526 East Bruceton Rd, Pittsburgh, PA 15236 immediately following interment. Online condolences may be offered at www.finneyfuneralhome.com
Steve P. Sujeta
February 17, 2026 |
By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory
William P. Valentyn Jr.
February 17, 2026 |
By Jaycox-Jaworski Funeral Home - Crematory | Posted in: Jaycox-Jaworski Funeral Home & Crematory
William P. Valentyn, Sr., age 75, of McKeesport, died on February 15, 2026, at the Sycamore Estate Personal Care Residence. Born January 30, 1951, in Leiden, Holland, he came to America at the age of 7, on the Queen Mary. The son of the late Cornelus and Christina (Niewenhuizen) Valentijn and the husband of the late Lynn (Koltiska) Valentyn.
William was a proud member of the Carpenters Union and dedicated many fulfilling years to his craft at Rycon Construction. His skilled hands not only built structures but also created a legacy of hard work and integrity that will inspire those he has left behind.
A lifelong passion for raising birds brought joy to William's heart, reflecting his gentle nature and appreciation for life's simple pleasures. He cherished every moment spent with his grandchildren, sharing laughter, stories, and a love that will resonate in their hearts forever.
He is survived by children, William P. Valentyn, Jr., and Jennifer Gorscak; grandchildren, Paige Gorscak and Sydney Gorscak; siblings, Alida Yoezle, of Osprey, FL, Tineke Pitoniak, of Sarasota, FL, Cor Valentyn of Mentor OH, Mary Ann Jones, of Bradenton, FL, and many nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents and wife, he was also preceded in death by siblings, John Valentyn and Trudy DeCarolis.
Arrangements were entrusted to Jaycox-Jaworski Funeral Home & Crematory. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.jaycox-jaworskifh.com.
Chris Odasso, Supervisor
Charles F. Pecar
February 16, 2026 |
By Administrator | Posted in: William Snyder Funeral Home
Charles F. Pecar, 80, of Arden Court of Jefferson Hills, formerly of East McKeesport, died Friday, February 13, 2026. He was born April 11, 1945 in McKeesport, the son of the late Frank and Ann (Duhan) Pecar and was also preceded in death by his wife of 46 years Jo A. (Voyce) Pecar and his sister Barbara Ann Pavlic. Chuck served in the U.S. Coast Guard and retired as a lock & dam operator for the Army Corps of Engineers. When not working, Chuck enjoyed traveling to all 49 states, eating great food with his wife, riding his Harley, and spending time with his grandkids. He loved fishing, golfing, and spent many years on his boat with his family. He was proud of his Croatian heritage and was a member of the Croatian Fraternal Union. Chuck loved music, playing his records, and was known to sing and dance on any occasion. He is survived by his daughter Kimberly Amatucci (William) and Janeen Garancsi (Michael); the mother of his children Darlene Lofgren; six grandchildren Nicholas Amatucci (Sammie), Christina Amatucci (Seamus), Gina Amatucci, Michael Gray (Mallory), Michael Garancsi Jr., and Vinny Garancsi (Kalyn); his great grandson Charley Amatucci; and nieces and nephews. Friends will be received from 4 to 8 p.m. Sunday, February 15, at the Forgie-Snyder Funeral Home, 1032 Broadway, East McKeesport, where a funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, February 16. He will be laid to rest next to his wife at Good Shepherd Cemetery. In lieu of flowers a contribution can be made to Arden Courts 380 Wray Large Rd. Jefferson Hills, PA 15025. For online condolences please visit www.snyderfuneralservices.com.
Michael Robert Greiner
February 16, 2026 |
By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory
Michael Robert Greiner, age 61, of Glassport, passed away Sunday, February 15, 2026 in Forbes Hospital. A janitorial employee with ABM in Pittsburgh, he enjoyed bowling and spending time with his family. Born January 19, 1965 in McKeesport, he was a son of the late Fredrick and Grace (Warnick) Greiner. He is survived by his fiancée, Jennifer Ralston of Plum; sons, Brandon (Felicia) Greiner and Brian Greiner, both of Elizabeth Twp.; daughter, Lillian Greiner of Plum; grandchildren, Spencer, Hunter and Annabel; brother, Joseph Greiner of Glassport; former wife, Dineen Greenwald; also, nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, David Greiner. Friends will be received in the Paul E. Bekavac Funeral Home, 221 North Second Avenue, Elizabeth, on Thursday, February 19, 2026 from 3 PM until the time of funeral service at 7 PM with Pastor Dan Lawrence officiating. Offer condolences at www.bekavacfuneralhome.com.
