July 06, 2025 |
By Willig Funeral Home | Posted in: Willig Funeral Home & Crematory
Peter J. Contakos, age 83, of McKeesport, died peacefully at his home on July 3, 2025 surrounded by his loved ones. Born November 3, 1941, in McKeesport, he was the son of the late James N. and Catherine (Jevis) Contakos and husband of the late Lisa Contakos. Peter is survived by his children, Eric (Jenny) Contakos, of Pittsburgh, Jim (Christina) Contakos, of South Park, Chris (Sarah) Contakos, of Greenwood, SC, and Kate (Chris Mera) Contakos, of New York, NY; grandchildren, Sly Mera-Contakos, Nika Contakos, and Mathew Puckey (Rebecca) and family; nephews, Greg Haretos, James Contakos, and Will Green; nieces, Stephanie Shoemaker and Melissa Dersham; great-nieces, Charlea and Chloe Yonan; great-nephews, Carson and Tyron Shoemaker; sisters-in-law, Judi (Chuck) Dersham, Kim (Dennis) Seidel, Stacy (Doug) Green, and Shelly Johnson. In addition to his parents and wife, he was also preceded in death by siblings, Stephanie Ellerman and Nicholas Contakos. A life beginning in the streams of Pennsylvania and travelling around the world, Peter fished from Alaska to Patagonia, from the Snake River in Montana to the Everglades in Florida. He was an outdoorsman extraordinaire, a lover of nature and an appreciator of the great circle of life that we're all part of. Whether hunting or fishing in Alberta, Colorado, or Montana he always paid respect to the people and the animals that made his life so rich. He rubbed elbows with grizzlies and wrestled with fish big and small, always aware of his place in nature and the balance he brought to it. He always honored the people he met and the places he went. It is hard to find any soul that encountered Peter that didn't walk away with something. He gave something to everyone, whether it was advice, money, something that he won at the casino..and he hated no one. He was generous in many ways but most importantly with his time. He took the time to care for the people who needed it and the people he loved.
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July 06, 2025 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Bruce David Yerecic, age 68 of North Huntingdon, passed away on July 3, 2025. He was born on December 4, 1956 in Pittsburgh, a son of the late George Yerecic and Sylvia Mrdeza Yerecic. Prior to his retirement, Bruce was employed as an educator at Bechtel-Bettis in West Mifflin. He was a member of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church, and also a member of several local sportsman's clubs. In addition to his parents, Bruce was preceded in death by his son Matthew Yerecic. He is survived by his beloved wife Marsha Weslowski Yerecic, one daughter Nicole Yerecic, one sister Roberta Welsch, and four grandchildren Emma, Trevor, Jacob, and James. There will be no public visitation. James W. Shirley Funeral Home in charge of arrangements, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
July 06, 2025 |
By Jaycox-Jaworski Funeral Home - Crematory | Posted in: Jaycox-Jaworski Funeral Home & Crematory
Louise “Weeze” Moon, age 82, of Greenock, died on July 4, 2025. Born on January 31, 1943, in McKeesport, she was the daughter of the late Stanley and Lottie (Matykiewicz) Daczkowski and the wife of the late Norman D. Moon. Louise’s life was centered around her family and friends. She attended St. Mary Czestochowa School and Church and graduated from McKeesport High School. Norman first noticed Louise while she was dancing, and together they shared a lasting appreciation for the dance floor. After taking time to raise her daughters, she had a successful career at Nash Kinema, where she proudly served for decades. Outside of work, Louise loved to golf. The time and friendships she shared on the course meant so much more than the numbers on the scorecard. She participated in several leagues—with her husband and her girlfriends in “The Bags” and “Chicks with Sticks”—forming lifelong friendships along the greens of Butler’s Golf Course. Her passion for the game led her to take on a role at the golf course in retirement, where she served others while looking out over her favorite nine. Louise also treasured her lifelong card club, where friendships flourished for over 50 years. She remained active throughout her later years, continuing to golf, take classes at Alpha Fitness, and make new friends.
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July 05, 2025 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Sandra Lee "Sandy" Lehner, 75, of Elizabeth Township, passed away Friday, July 4, 2025. She was born February 11, 1950 in McKeesport and was the daughter of Louis and Lillian Broder. Better known as Sandy or Anny, she was the best, most unique person most of us will ever have the privilege of knowing. And as such, this story needs to demonstrate her moxie, humor, kindness, generosity, and depth of love. The friends and family who really knew her understand she would want nothing less than a funny tribute about how awesome she was. So, enjoy the inside jokes. She is survived by her devoted husband Russell Greg Lehner (who does not like vanilla cake), her daughters: Amy (Todd) Wood and Trudy (Jeff) Pzynski, her favorite granddaughter: Samantha Wood, and her favorite grandson: Connor Wood, Spenser Wood, and Oliver Pzynski. Her sisters: Susan (Bob) Keeler and Beth (Jack) Karos, Sister-in-law Penny (Jay) Natale, chosen family: The Pasquales, too many nieces and nephews to name, and too many cats to list.
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July 05, 2025 |
By Wojciechowski Funeral Home | Posted in: Wojciechowski Funeral Home
Yvonne M. Harper, 77, of Elizabeth, died July 3, 2025. She is the daughter of the late Leo and Martha (Bill) McConeghy and wife of the late Harry Harper. She is survived by her son Lonnie (Donna) Ambrose and daughter Heather (Tim) Hallas; grandchildren Tim Jr., Jeremy, Jim, Kristen and Valerie. Yvonne was a retired secretary for UPMC for over 21 years. Funeral arrangements by the Wojciechowski Funeral Home, Glassport.
July 04, 2025 |
By Administrator | Posted in: Elmer L. Herman Funeral Home
Arlene Frances (Ondovchik) Buchanan, 73, of Swissvale, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully on the morning of June 28, 2025, at UPMC Mercy Hospital.
She was born on August 22, 1951, in Braddock, Pennsylvania, to Helen Agnes (Zajac) and Joseph William Ondovchik.
Arlene graduated from Scott High School in 1969, and spent 50 years as an Office Assistant at Duquesne University’s Computing and Technology Services (CTS). Arlene was known for her dedication to her work and her students. She never shied away from a job to be done, and made it a point to welcome all who passed through the doors of CTS.
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July 04, 2025 |
By Administrator | Posted in: Elmer L. Herman Funeral Home
Isiah Anthony McCarthy made his departure to heaven on June 26th, 2025.
He was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania on June 5th, 2009 to Tempestt Monet Booker and Eugene James McCarthy.
Isiah was a student at Clairton HighSchool. He was a passionate football player earning his title as an "All Star Player".
Isiah was also an aspiring musical engineer and rapper. He spent a lot of his downtime in the studio with his friends creating music.
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July 04, 2025 |
By Strifflers Family Funeral Homes | Posted in: Strifflers Family Funeral Homes
John M. Fisher, age 59, of McKeesport, PA, died on Wednesday, June 25, 2025. He was born in El Paso, TX on March 7, 1966 and was the son of the late Donald H. and Adelle Roberts Fisher. He was employed as an engineer for his entire career.
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July 04, 2025 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Wilfred (Butch) Patrick Wichelmann, age 82 of North Huntingdon, passed away on July 3, 2025, at UMPC East. He was born on March 1, 1943, in Homestead, PA. a son of the late Wilfred and Cecelia Donnelly Wichelmann. Wilfred was a member of the Immaculate Conception Church in Irwin. Prior to his retirement, he was employed on the assembly line for General Motors. He enjoyed camping, fishing, hunting, socializing with friends at the Shafton Firehall, and spending time with his daughters and grandchildren. He was a graduate of Norwin High School in 1961. He is survived by his wife, Charlotte Parker Wichelmann, loving daughters Kim Kintigh (Richard) and Jennifer Grottenthaler (Richard Scherff). two sisters, Elizabeth Wichelmann, Ruthann Valimont (Edward), grandchildren, Nicole Stalvey (Chris), Ashley Kintigh (Justin), Hayley Kintigh, Brionna Wichelmann, Nathaniel and Brandon Grottenthaler, Savannah Bashioum, and great-grandchildren Reed, Levi and Cameron. There will be no public visitation. Services will be private. James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon in charge of arrangements. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
July 04, 2025 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Danielle L. McCann (Wilson), age 53 of North Huntingdon passed away July 3, 2025, at her home surrounded by her family after a courageous battle of 13 years with MSBC. She was born December 15, 1971 in McKeesport, a daughter of Daniel Wilson (Norma) and Nancie Muro (Nicholas). Danielle was a member of Norwin Christian Church. She graduated from Norwin High School class of 1989 where she was cheerleading captain for the 88-89 school year and also the Secretary of the Spanish Club. Danielle graduated the University of Pittsburgh Johnstown Campus in 1993 with a bachelor’s in psychology and was a member of the Delta Zeta Sorority. She had then worked at Adelphi Village in Latrobe which is where she met her then supervisor Jennifer DiVittis turned best friend, and after over a decade of CYS work Danielle attained her Master's in Education from Duquesne University. Danielle was then an intern at Franklin Regional High School. Her first day was 9/11/2001, the following school year she was employed and remained for 20 years as a School Counselor, until she regretfully had to retire due to her 9-year battle with breast cancer. She had worked with children for over 35 years. Her work family became her second family. The children’s lives that she had been honored to work with were like family to her. Danielle enjoyed shopping with Nancie (Ma), as well as having stomach hurting breath taking laughing moments all of the time when they were together. Danielle and her father Daniel (Papa Smurf) had a bond stronger than most fathers and daughters share. Danielle was known as Snow White due to her love of animals. Her boys Vinnie, Luca, Daniel, and Bo will miss their mother very much. Over the 32 years Danni and Eric have been together they’ve rescued over 6 dogs and 4 cats and 1 rabbit. In addition to her parents, she is survived by her husband of over 26 years Eric T McCann, brother Nicko (bites all)Wilson (Emily) ,in-laws Rev. John Pressler (Suzanne), brother-in-law John McCann (Kristen), Sister-in-law Julia Pressler (Mike), step siblings Harry Castine (Amanda), Bryan Castine (Carey), Mellisa Weller(Bryan) as well as many aunts and uncles, cousins, relatives and friends. The service will be officiated by the Rev. Brenda Barnes. Friends will be received on Monday July 7, 2025 from 2 to 8 p.m. at the JAMES W. SHIRLEY FUNERAL HOME, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon. A service will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday in the funeral home chapel. Interment will follow at Union Cemetery in Irwin. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be given to the pet charity of your choice. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
July 04, 2025 |
By Strifflers Family Funeral Homes | Posted in: Strifflers Family Funeral Homes
David Edward Ridella, age 90, of North Versailles, PA, died on Thursday, July 3, 2025. He was born in East Pittsburgh, PA on February 20, 1935 and was the son of the late Anthony E. and Irene Dorothy Tarasovic Ridella. David attended the University of Pittsburgh and Robert Morris University. He obtained a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration and was employed by Gulf Oil and then later was employed by the Pennsylvania Bureau of Employment Security where he retired.
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July 04, 2025 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
John R. Malley, age 87 of North Huntingdon, passed away on July 2, 2025. He was born on November 22, 1937 in Braddock, a son of the late John and Susan Malley. John was a veteran of the United States Air Force and a member of Grace Baptist Church in Greensburg. Prior to his retirement, he was employed in the research and development department at Westinghouse. In his free time, John loved to care for his garden. In addition to his parents, John was preceded in death by numerous brothers and sisters. He is survived by his beloved wife Patsy Ratliff, three sons John Malley (wife Mary), Jeffrey Malley (wife Pam), and Jason Malley, one daughter Lisa Patella (husband John), grandchildren Morgan, Merrick, Jeff Jr., Justin, Jessica, Anthony, and Nicholas, and four great-grandchildren Santino, Luca, Gia, and Roman. Friends will be received at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon on Thursday, July 10, from 11 AM to 1 PM with a service at 1 PM. Interment will follow in Penn Lincoln Cemetery. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
July 03, 2025 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
George M. Burtner, age 60 of North Huntingdon, passed away on July 3, 2025. He was born on January 31, 1965 in Braddock, a son of George W. Burtner and the late Carol Ann Miller Burtner. George was a veteran of the United States Army and he was employed as a probation officer for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. In his free time, he liked to hunt, fish, and ride his Harley Davidson motorcycle. George is survived by his son Michael Burtner, sister Lori Powell (husband Jonathon), niece & goddaughter Juliann Baker (husband Daniel), great nieces and nephews Daniel, Maddison, Slate, and Roc, and his longtime friend Tracine Benvin-Poti. There will be no public visitation. James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon in charge of arrangements. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
July 03, 2025 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Sylvia J. (Momberger) Berger, 76, of Allegheny Township, PA passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, after a long journey with Pulmonary Fibrosis. Up until the end Sylvia maintained her compassion, appreciation and love of her family. Sylvia was born on March 7, 1949 in Allegheny Township, PA and was the daughter of the late Raymond G. Momberger and Virginia I. (Snider) Momberger. Sylvia was a 1967 graduate of Kiski Area High School. She went on to work in the optical industry for over 50 years.
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July 03, 2025 |
By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory
“O sacrament most holy, O sacrament divine,
all praise and thanksgiving
be every moment Thine.”
Sister James was welcomed home by the Divine Redeemer on July 3, 2025. She had been preparing for this meeting with the Lord for many days.
She died very peacefully surrounded with the prayers of the Sisters.
Sister Mary James (Mildred Toth), the daughter of Michael and Anna Toth, was born in Cleveland, Ohio on April 17, 1922 and was a member of St. Margaret Parish.
Sister James entered the Sisters of the Divine Redeemer in 1942 and professed vows 2and ½ years later. She received her B.S. in Education from St. John’s College in Cleveland and began teaching grades 3-4 at St. Elizabeth School in Buffalo, New York. She also taught in Ohio (Cleveland and Fairport) and for many years in various elementary schools in Pennsylvania (St. Bartholomew in Penn Hills, St. Paulinus in Clairton, St. Michael in Elizabeth, and James Lavell in Munhall). Sister particularly enjoyed teaching second graders about the Sacrament of Reconciliation and Holy Eucharist. From 1964-1969 Sister was Novice Directress for those preparing to become Sisters of the Divine Redeemer. She also served on the Provincial Council from 1979-1982 and as Local Superior from 1983-1988.
When Sister James “retired” from teaching, she helped wherever she was needed including driving and always remained faithful to prayer. She had a special devotion to the Holy Eucharist, the Sacred Heart, and the Blessed Mother. Her soul burned in love for her Lord, the Divine Redeemer.
Sister James remained close to her family and was greatly loved by them all. The phone calls, frequent visits, annual vacations were always within the family setting.
On the lighter side, Sister James enjoyed playing pinochle with her family, working jigsaw and crossword puzzles, and word finds. During her teaching years, Sister enjoyed stamp collecting and looking for “rare” coins. She had a “sweet tooth” and enjoyed chocolates and desserts.
Sister James was preceded in death by her parents, Mr/Mrs Robert (brother) and Alvira Toth, Mr/Mrs Michael (brother) and Arlene Toth. She is survived by Mr/Mrs Edward and Louise (sister) Merker, many nephews and nieces, grand nephews and nieces.
Sister Mary James was the first Sister in our Congregation to have celebrated her 103 birthday. She lived a holy and fruitful life and was an example to all and greatly loved. May she rest in peace.
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