December 06, 2025 |
By Administrator | Posted in: William Snyder Funeral Home

Carol Lynn Pascarella, 69, of North Versailles, died Tuesday, November 25, 2025. She was born April 15, 1956 in Pittsburgh, a daughter of Joan M. (Paisley) Nicholls and the late Dale S. Nicholls and also preceded in death by her step-mother Nellie Nicholls. She was a retired secretary for Carnegie Mellon University and also had formerly worked at Rankin Forge. She was an active member of Linway Presbyterian Church where she served as treasurer, sang in the choir, played with the bell choir, and was a Sunday School teacher and deacon. She was president of PTA for several years, was an avid reader, and was the go to person in the family for genealogy. She is survived by her husband of 48 years Mark Pascarella; her son Anthony Pascarella and his wife Jacqueline; her grandsons Leo and Landon; her siblings Larry Nicholls and Debbie Ostapchenko; two half-brothers; and many nieces and nephews, Friends will be received from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, November 28, at the Forgie-Snyder Funeral Home, 1032 Broadway, East McKeesport. A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, November 29 in Linway Presbyterian Church, 600 Lincoln Hwy., North Versailles. Those attending the funeral service please go directly to the church. Interment will follow in Restland Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers a contribution can be made to the Multiple Sclerosis Society at nationalmssociety.org. For online condolences please visit www.snyderfuneralservices.com.
To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Carol Lynn Pascarella please visit our Sympathy Store.
December 06, 2025 |
By Administrator | Posted in: Robert A. Waters Funeral Home
Chevelle “Chevie” LaShon Robinson-Chambers, 53, of McKeesport, PA, was born on December 27, 1971 at McKeesport Hospital. She was the daughter of the late Lily Florene Robinson and the late Raymond “Fab” Browning. Throughout her youth, Chevelle was affectionately known as “Chevie" to all of those who knew and loved her. But once she joined the U.S. Navy, she determined that others would have to address her by the lovely name she was given at birth, Chevelle.
Chevelle attended and graduated from McKeesport High School in 1989. Not long after graduating, she enlisted in the U.S. Navy on September 5, 1989. After going through basic training, she was stationed on a naval ship at Oceana Naval Air Station in Virginia Beach, Virginia, where she was awarded the National Defense Service Medal. Chevelle proudly served her country for 4 years. Upon returning home she made the decision to pursue her dream of becoming a nurse. Chevelle initially attended Connelly Technical Institute of Nursing in 1997 and became a licensed practical nurse; then transferred to the Nursing program at the Shadyside School of Nursing and graduated in 2001, where she received a Registered Nurse Diploma. Chevelle began her career as she worked as a nurse at many hospitals, nursing homes and agencies.
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December 06, 2025 |
By Administrator | Posted in: Robert A. Waters Funeral Home
John Marcus Hughes, Jr. (AKA Sonny), was the youngest of four children born to John Marcus Hughes, Sr. and Juanita Hughes (Neenie). Sonny was born on December 8, 1950, in the McKeesport Hospital. Not only was he the youngest, but he was the only boy, preceded by sisters Betty, and Beverly. From the very beginning, Sonny was the family favorite not only to his sisters, but also to his mother Neenie.
Early on, Sonny showed an interest in the sport of fracturing furniture in the family home on Edith Street. In Order to stop the destruction, at Christmas, he was given football and baseball equipment. As they say, “the rest is history.” Even though Sonny excelled in baseball and basketball, football was the sport where he truly excelled. Playing football with the nationally renowned McKeesport Little Tigers propelled him into the public consciousness. From that beginning, playing running back and quarterback, he went on to become the most outstanding football player in Duquesne High School History, earning All-State Honors. Following his high school career, he elected to attend Ohio State University when he was personally recruited by the head coach of OSU, Woody Hayes.
While he did not win any Grammys while appearing in four Rose Bowls with Ohio State University, he did win the approval of several Tonys. Tony Dorsett, whom he hosted on a recruiting visit to Ohio State, went on to win the 1976 Heisman trophy while playing at Pitt, and Tony Dungey the first black coach to win a Super Bowl, and while playing quarterback for the University of Minnesota, was told not to test the Ohio State defensive backs Jack Tatum, Neil Colzie, and Sonny Hughes.
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December 06, 2025 |
By Administrator | Posted in: William Snyder Funeral Home
Kenneth E. Frye, 81, of North Huntingdon, passed away Monday, November 24, 2025 surrounded by family. He was born May 23, 1944 in Greensburg, a son of the late Kenneth E. and Pearl (Woodward) Frye, and in addition to his parents Ken was preceded in death by his sister Heidi A. Halvin and brother Mark C. Frye. He was a member of Immaculate Conception Church, Irwin, and the LOOM Lodge 236, Irwin. Ken is survived by his wife Mary C. Frye, son K.C. (Lynn) Frye of Doylestown, grand children Justin Frye, Michael Frye, and Daniel Frye, siblings Lorena (Earl) Richards of Marietta, Georgia, Joel (Sue) Frye of Savannah, Georgia, Scott (Sandy) Frye of Ligonier, and brother and sister in-law Robert and Pat Steimer of North Huntingdon. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Saturday, December 20, 2025, at Immaculate Conception Church, Irwin. Interment will follow in I.C. Cemetery. William Snyder Funeral Home, Inc., 521 Main Street, Irwin, 724-863-1200 is handling arrangements. Those wishing can make a memorial donation to Rescue 8 North Huntingdon EMS, 11259 Center Hwy, North Huntingdon, PA 15642. For online condolences please visit www.snyderfuneralservices.com .
To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Kenneth E. Frye please visit our Sympathy Store.
December 05, 2025 |
By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory

John Michael Arlia, age 79 of Clairton, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, December 3, 2025 at the H.J. Heinz II VA Center in Aspinwall. Born April 25, 1946 in McKeesport, he was a son of the late Domenico and Maria (Osso) Arlia. A U.S. Army Veteran of the Vietnam War, John worked for over 25 years with the Internal Revenue Service and before that, was a crane operator for U.S. Steel. He also was a first generation Italian-American Calabrese. John loved being an active alumnus of McKeesport High School as well as gardening, being a fifty-five year Steelers season ticket holder, and most of all being a proud Pap to his four grandchildren. He is survived by his wife Cecelia "CeCe" (Ross) Arlia; his children Michele Scott of St. Louis, MO and Peter (Richelle) Arlia of Ohio Twp., his grandchildren Jordan and Max Scott and Marco and Anthony Arlia, his brother Phillip (Evelyn) Arlia of Irwin, his brother and sister in-law John and Corrine Pfefferkorn of Clairton, and also nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, John was preceded in death by his brothers Peter and James Arlia.
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December 05, 2025 |
By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory

Richard Petrick, age 75, of McKeesport, passed away Wednesday, December 3, 2025 at Lakeview Personal Care in Darlington. He was a retired operating room attendant at Jefferson Hospital. He was a former avid runner, loved rock and folk music, and was an animal lover. Born August 21, 1950 in McKeesport, he was a son of the late Joseph C. and Margaret (Holland) Petrick Sr. He is survived by his wife of 31 years, Marda (Smith) Petrick; stepson, Lynn (Marcie) Wooley of Lehigh Acres, FL; grandchildren, Brittany (Gary) Jones of New Castle, Zachary Wooley of Harrisburg and Sarah Wooley of Vero Beach, FL; stepgranddaughter, Megan (Eric) Holzer of Pittsburgh; and close friend and caregiver, Diane Barbera. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by siblings, Daniel R. Petrick and Joseph C. Jr. and Sarah Petrick. Friends will be received in the Paul E. Bekavac Funeral Home, 221 North Second Avenue, Elizabeth, on Tuesday, December 9, 2025 from 10 AM until the time of blessing at 11 AM with Deacon Dale DiSanto officiating. Offer condolences at
http://www.bekavacfuneralhome.com.
December 05, 2025 |
By Strifflers Family Funeral Homes | Posted in: Strifflers Family Funeral Homes

Grace Ann Laird, age 81, of McKeesport, PA, passed away peacefully on Thursday, December 4, 2025. Born in Wilkensburg, PA on July 4, 1944, she was the cherished daughter of the late Clarence and Ann (Pupich) Vesely.
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December 04, 2025 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Daniel Regis Majzer, 90, of Versailles, passed away on Wednesday, December 3, 2025. He was born July 14, 1935 in Port Vue and was the son of the late Theodore and Susan (Cverna) Majzer. He was the loving husband of 59 years to the late Marcella Jane (Dunn) Majzer, who passed away on June 28, 2017. Daniel was a US Army Veteran and graduated from McKeesport High School in 1953. He then started his career at US Steel National Tube in inventory, before being drafted in 1958 and stationed in Alabama. He worked in the personnel office scheduling soldiers when they came in to be stationed. He returned to US Steel to finish his 31 year career there. He was also a landscaper and coached baseball and softball games for 20 years at Port Vue, McKeesport and the Legion. He always wanted to be a sports announcer and was able to do that during his time as a coach. He had a passion and knowledge of sports. He attended Steelers games for over 30 years and was a member of the Dobre Shunka Fan Club. He attended a few Super Bowls and traveled to Cleveland, Cincinnati, Buffalo, Houston and New Orleans for games. His commitment to the Steelers also followed suit with his dedication to his faith and trust in God. He was very well organized and frugal, enjoyed listening to sports radio, gardening, yard work, reading, walking, excercising, carrying the groceries and helping the elderly. He was not a fan of politicians, lazy people and products not made in the USA. Some of his favorite sayings were; "Get the heck out of here, Cheese and crackers, and Money doesn't grow on trees." He took care of things, owning only 4 cars over 49 years and the same lawnmower for 30 years.
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December 04, 2025 |
By Wojciechowski Funeral Home | Posted in: Wojciechowski Funeral Home
Raymond A. Vavra, 71, died Nov. 18, 2025. He is the son of the late Albert and Theresa Vavra. He is survived by his children Nicole, Joann, Steven, Kimberly and John; and grandchildren Raeden, Airalyn, Jacob, Emma, Baylee, Alexis and Cameron. Ray proudly served in the US Marine Corp. Funeral arrangements by the Wojciechowski Funeral Home, Glassport.
December 04, 2025 |
By Strifflers Family Funeral Homes | Posted in: Strifflers Family Funeral Homes

Laurie Ann Molcany, age 56, of McKeesport, passed away on Wednesday, December 3, 2025. She was born in Duquesne, PA on December 14, 1968 and was the daughter of the late Carole Molcany.
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December 03, 2025 |
By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory

Faith Obusek Wilson, age 83 of Charleroi, passed away on Tuesday, December 2, 2025 at Riverside Care Center, McKeesport. Born March 22, 1942 in McKeesport, she was a daughter of the late Stanley and Hilda Slepecki. She is survived by her sons David (Dawn C.) Obusek of Ruffs Dale, Daniel Obusek of Yukon, Michael Obusek of Greenock, Robert W. (Stephanie) Obusek of Elizabeth, and many grandchildren and great grandchildren. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husbands George J. Obusek and Robert Wilson, brother Ronald Slepecki, and sister Nadine Wallace.
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December 03, 2025 |
By Maloy-Schleifer Funeral Home | Posted in: Maloy-Schleifer Funeral Home

Michael Deane Cox, of State College, Pa. Age 70, passed away unexpectedly from this life on November 9, 2025. Born on July 11, 1955 to the late Jay Deane Cox and Rosemarie (Russ) Cox in Washington, D.C. Michael is survived by his loving wife of 44 years, Marilyn “Lynne” Kertis-Cox and their son, Shawn Michael Roman, who were the center of his deepest devotion. He was a steady, guiding presence for his surviving brothers, Jeffrey Jay Cox and John Howard Cox, both of Silver Spring, Maryland, and his sister, Mary Suzanne Himmelberg (Theodore) of Mount Airy, Maryland. Being the eldest brother, Michael was someone they turned to throughout their lives, as he was always there with an open heart. Michael was a caring and loving uncle to his nieces, Angela Himmelberg of New York City, Erica Himmelberg of Mt. Airy, Maryland and Melissa (Robert) Hickey of Warrington, Pennsylvania. Michael’s cousins, great-niece, and great-nephews will also miss him dearly. Michael was preceded in death most recently by his sister-in-law, Marlene Marzoch, and is survived by her husband and his brother-in-law, Jerome Marzoch. Along with his family and extended family, Michael leaves behind many close friends who will miss him deeply.
As a young man in Maryland, Mike enjoyed playing youth baseball and football in the Wheaton Boys Club. As he excelled, he also played football and baseball for John F. Kennedy High School and baseball for Montgomery College. During the summers following high school and while attending Montgomery College and University of Maryland Mike played for the Montgomery County Baseball Association’s team, the Takoma Blue Sox, under legendary Coach Lee Jordan.
Mike combined his lifelong love and talent for sports with his gift for writing to begin his journalism career as a sports writer and editor for several newspapers in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area, including the Washington Star, the Montgomery County Sentinel, and the University of Maryland Diamondback. After a rewarding chapter in journalism, he brought his writing skills to public service, crafting press releases/speeches for government officials at the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Mike later found his professional home with Pfizer Pharmaceuticals, where he spent over 29 successful years in corporate management. During this time, he also supplemented his journalism degree with an MBA in Marketing from St. Joseph’s University.
Following his successful tenure at Pfizer, his experience in the corporate world and entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish his own professional business, Nittany Business Coaching. He also served as an adjunct professor at Penn State University. Up until his passing, Mike had dedicated the past 11 years to the American Management Association, NYC, as a facilitator. Mike’s gift for communication, passion for training and consulting, as well as his high energy, dedication, and altruistic nature made him a sought-after instructor for various courses. Throughout his long professional career the positive influence he had on his colleagues remain an enduring part of his legacy.
Much beyond his work, Michael’s life was enriched by his family, friends, and faith. He cherished time with loved ones, drawing joy and strength from the connections that shaped his life. Ocean City, Maryland was a favorite summer vacation place! Mike enjoyed making cherished memories and spending treasured time with family and friends. He had visited there every year since infancy! Mike and his son Shawn shared a love of sports. Throughout Shawn’s young life, Mike enjoyed coaching baseball, basketball, and Shawn’s career on various football teams. While Shawn was in Scouts, Mike volunteered at every opportunity. Other interests included cooking, reading, playing golf, and daily gym workouts. These brought energy, structure, and a welcome diversion throughout the years. Mike was a proud 3rd Degree member of the Knights of Columbus, Father O’Hanlon Council # 4678. Following his faith, he served as a CCD teacher at Our Lady of Victory Catholic Church. Michael’s faith, generosity, and love for his family leave a legacy that will endure.
A Funeral Mass will be held on
Tuesday December 16th , 2025, at 11:00AM.
Our Lady of Victory Catholic Church
820 Westerly Parkway
State College, Pa. 16801
Expressions of sympathy may be offered to the family at Beardsleyfuneralhome.com
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Michael’s name to The American Heart Association.
Local announcement provided by the MALOY-SCHLEIFER FUNERAL HOME, INC., 915 KENNEDY AVE., DUQUESNE, 412-466-3300, WILLIAM B. SCHLEIFER, SUPERVISOR, WILLIAM BRIAN SCHLEIFER AND ALLAN J. WEBER, FUNERAL DIRECTORS.
December 03, 2025 |
By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory

William P. Brown, age 88 of Elizabeth Twp., passed away Wednesday, December 3, 2025 in Jefferson Hospital. A Navy veteran, he retired as an electrician at U.S. Steel Clairton Works and was a former member of Bethesda United Presbyterian Church in Elizabeth. He was a life member of the American Motorcycle Association, Blaine Hill Volunteer Fire Co. and Elrama Sportsmen’s Club, a social member of the Elizabeth Borough Volunteer Fire Co., and a member of Masonic Omni Lodge 582 in Dravosburg. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping and motorcycling. Born November 11, 1937 in McKeesport, he was a son of the late Albert E. and Virginia (Campbell) Brown. He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Dolores G. (Grace) Brown; daughters, Virginia and Beverley Brown, both of Kansas City, MO; sister, Virginia “Deane” Taricco of Rolling Hills, CA; brother, Thomas P. (Bernadette) Brown of Rancho Palace Verdes, CA; sister-in-law, Helen Brown of Whitehall; also, nieces, nephews and great-nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Albert C. Brown. Friends will be received in the Paul E. Bekavac Funeral Home, 221 North Second Avenue, Elizabeth, on Saturday, December 6, 2025 from 2-5 PM. A funeral service in the funeral home chapel will be Monday, December 8, 2025 at 10 AM with the Rev. Ronald Calabro officiating. Burial will follow in Round Hill Cemetery, Elizabeth Twp. Offer condolences at
http://www.bekavacfuneralhome.com.
December 03, 2025 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory

Sean Edward Koon, 53, of Port Vue passed away Tuesday, December 2, 2025. He was born November 23, 1972 in McKeesport and is the son of Charles Gordon and Sharon Lynn (Sanner) Koon. Sean worked for CVS Call Center as a customer service representative for numerous years. However, he had a passion for all things nerd - Star Wars, video games, superheroes, movies, and even a deep love for football. For the past 10 years, his interest sparked the creation of a podcast called "The Pittsburgh Nerd" that he, and his cousin, Ian, worked on together. He had a wealth of knowledge and collective information about any topic that captivated his targeted audience each time. In addition to his parents, Charles & Sharon, Sean is survived by his sister, Traci Koon of Port Vue; his niece & goddaughter, Mayah Taylor Koon; his nephew, Jordan Thomas Phillips; his cousin by blood, brother by choice, Ian (Lisa) Bellamy; and by nieces Ana, Bri, and Elliot. Sean is preceded in death by his brother, Thomas Gordon Koon. There are no services at this time. Arrangements are by the Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 6028 Smithfield Street, Boston, Elizabeth Township. (412) 751-5000 Drew J. Gilbert, director. Inurnment will take place at West Newton Cemetery at a later date. Condolences can be made at Gilbertfuneralhomeandcrematory.com
December 02, 2025 |
By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory

Karen Lynn (Oates) Kaufman, age 79, of Elrama passed away suddenly on Monday, December 1, 2025, in AHN Jefferson Hospital surrounded by family. Karen was a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Monongahela where over the course of 60 years she served as elder, deacon, and trustee and was a vacation bible schoolteacher. Since 2020 she attended the Elrama Community Church and loved her church family. She was a former member of the White Shrine, and a Women of the Moose, Finleyville. She was a proud member and class secretary to the Monongahela High School Class of 1964. Karen found a reason to smile every day and wanted to share that smile with everyone she met. The Village of Elrama will never be quite the same. Born February 26, 1946, she was the youngest daughter of the late William B. and Bernice (Powell) Oates. In April of 1965 she married Dale E. “Bucky” Kaufman who passed away in January of 2012. She was embraced and loved by the entire Kaufman family. She is survived by her children, Dianna L. Kaufman, Richard E. (Libby) Kaufman and Colleen K. (Brian) Fulkerson. Four Grandchildren who she loved with all her heart and was so extremely proud of: Anna Kaufman, Morgan Kaufman, Lila Fulkerson and #44 Crosby Fulkerson. Her sister, Marion (Bud) Segursky of Monongahela, and her very best friend Becky (Allen) Girdler of Eubank, KY; sister-in-law, Frances Kaufman of Houston, TX and many nieces and nephews. She also loved, like her own children, Jim (Karen) Chisholm and Nicole (Bill) Reilley Dosey. In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by her brother, William A. Oates, and companion, Ron Dunbar who we lost in August of 2023. Karen felt very blessed to have so many friends to laugh with and love and we were all so fortunate to have her in our lives. Friends will be received in the Paul E. Bekavac Funeral Home, Elizabeth, on Friday, December 5, 2025, from 2-8PM. A funeral service will take place on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at 10AM in the funeral home chapel with Pastor Jude Urso officiating. Burial to follow in Round Hill Cemetery, Elizabeth Twp. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her honor to the Elrama Community Church, 19 Ramage Avenue, Elrama, PA 15038. Offer condolences at www.bekavacfuneralhome.com