April 09, 2026 |
By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory
Anna M. Galzerano, age 92 of White Oak, passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, April 8, 2026. Born June 26, 1933 in McKeesport, she was a daughter of the late Joseph and Katherine (Klukaszewski) Daczkowski. A former operator for Bell Telephone, Anna was a member of Mary, Mother of God Parish. She is survived by her sons Mark (Marion) Galzerano of North Huntingdon and Paul (Cindy) Galzerano, and her grandson Jacob Galzerano. Besides her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband Carl Galzerano and son Eric Galzerano.
Read More
April 09, 2026 |
By Willig Funeral Home | Posted in: Willig Funeral Home & Crematory
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Kathleen Crouch, age 70, who left us peacefully on April 7, 2026, at her home in McKeesport, PA, surrounded by her loving family. Born on November 21, 1956, Kathleen was a cherished daughter of the late Albert and Henrietta Pearl (Huffstickle) DiBattista and the beloved wife of Elmer D. Crouch, Jr.
Kathleen was not just known as a devoted wife; she was also the spirited owner of the former Elmo's Place of Tenth Ward. Her love for life shone through in everything she did. From enjoying music and dancing to spending beautiful days boating and taking motorcycle rides, Kathleen approached each moment with joy and enthusiasm. She always enjoyed raising a glass with friends, creating countless memories and bonds that will be dearly missed.
Read More
April 09, 2026 |
By Jaycox-Jaworski Funeral Home - Crematory | Posted in: Jaycox-Jaworski Funeral Home & Crematory
Nick "Uncle Jim" Mouring, age 73, of North Huntingdon, died April 6, 2026, at Forbes Hospital. Born May 10, 1952, in McKeesport, he was the son of the late Harold E. and Donna (Mackey) Mouring.
Nick earned his Bachelor's Degree from California University of Pennsylvania and the University of Pittsburgh, ultimately becoming a registered nurse. For over 50 years, he served the community as a compassionate caregiver at UPMC McKeesport Hospital, where he applied his deep knowledge and genuine care to improve the well-being of countless patients. His commitment to the nursing profession reflected his heart for helping others, a testament to his character and kindness. Uncle Jim was a regular presence at his nephews', great-nephew, and family friends' baseball games, where his enthusiasm and support were always evident.
Read More
April 09, 2026 |
By Teichart-Gracan Funeral Home | Posted in: Teichart-Gracan Funeral Home
Ruth J. Bowers, 93, of West Mifflin, passed away April 4, 2026. She was born at home, Pittsville, Wisconsin, October 14, 1932 to the late Rev. Delbert and Mina Appleby. Ruth was retired from the Duquesne Light Company where she worked as an administrative assistant for 36 years. She enjoyed traveling with her husband, reading, solving crossword puzzles, taking day trips with church members, and volunteering at her church. In addition to her parent’s, she is preceded in death by her beloved husband of 47 years, Edward C. Bowers in 2017; three sisters, Yvonne, Grace, and Mary Jane; and one brother, Harold. Ruth is survived by many nieces and nephews. A memorial service for family and friends will take place on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, 11:00 a.m. at the First Evangelical Free Church at McKeesport, officiated by Rev. Alex Ielase. Interment will follow at Jefferson Memorial Cemetery. A memorial luncheon will be held at the church after the interment. Funeral arrangements by Teichart-Gracan Funeral Home, Duquesne.
The family would like to thank the staff at Locust Grove-West Mifflin, Walden’s View-North Huntingdon, and ViaQuest Hospice-Monongahela for their care, compassion, and kindness toward our aunt. Your support over the past three years has provided peace and comfort during an exceptionally difficult time.
April 08, 2026 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Ronald S. Dolezal, 79, of Turtle Creek, passed away Saturday, March 21, 2026. He was born August 23, 1946 in Braddock and was the son of the late Stephen William Dolezal and Virginia Jean (Sapida) Thomassey. He was an excellent chef for All the Best Catering for 25 years. Ron loved spending time with his friends and family. He is survived by his brother, Stephen (Sue-Z Webster) Dolezal; sister, Debbie Stillson; niece Terra (Roman) Capristo; nephew, Larry Daw; and cousins. There is no visitation. Arrangements are by the Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 6028 Smithfield Street, Boston, Elizabeth Township (412) 751-5000 Drew J. Gilbert, Director. Condolences may be made at GilbertFuneralHomeandCrematory.com
April 08, 2026 |
By Strifflers Family Funeral Homes | Posted in: Strifflers Family Funeral Homes
Joan Adelle Korinko, age 98, of Jeannette, PA, formerly of Mt. Vernon, PA, passed away on Saturday, March 28, 2026. She was born in McKeesport, PA on April 13, 1927 and was the daughter of the late Joseph and Lilly Richardson Raible. She was the wife of the late John J. Korinko, who died on April 20, 2005.
Read More
April 08, 2026 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Donald Andrew Goodgion, 81, of Elizabeth Township, formerly of Levittown passed away Monday, April 6, 2026. He was born in Liberty, NY on March 21, 1945 to the late Richard and Marie (Hunt) Goodgion. Don was a proud Veteran and served in the Army from 1967-1970 - earning the National Defense Service Medal, the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, and the EXP M-14 Medal. He worked for CJ Langenfelder for over 30 years before retiring and enjoying the slower life. Whether hunting, fishing, tending to his yard, riding around on his John Deere tractors, or simply feeding the deer, turkeys and birds in his yard, he was at peace the most when he was outside. He also loved to see his grandchildren and great-grandchildren grow. He truly had a gift of story telling, and was found sharing stories from his younger years-stories that brought laughter, wisdom, and a sense of connection to everyone who listened.
Read More
April 08, 2026 |
By Willig Funeral Home | Posted in: Willig Funeral Home & Crematory
Andrew J. Lazar, age 81, of Port Vue, died March 26, 2026, at UPMC McKeesport Hospital. Born July 24, 1944, in McKeesport, he was the son of the late Bernard J. and Helen (Zalac) Lazar.
Andrew retired from Tyggart Steel after many years of dedicated service. He also contributed to the local community through his work at The Daily News in McKeesport. A devoted member of the Sacred Heart Church of McKeesport, Andrew found solace in his faith, which provided him comfort and guidance throughout his life. He had a deep appreciation for the music of the 50s and 60s, and often reminisced about the joy those melodies brought him.
Andrew is survived by his sister, Patricia Ann Smith of Port Vue; niece, Michele Ann Smith of Port Vue; nephew, Jeffrey Thomas of Port Vue; and good friend, Wesley McNeils.
Arrangements were entrusted to Willig Funeral Home & Crematory. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.willigfuneralcremationservices.com.
Charles Danforth, Supervisor
April 07, 2026 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Bernice Smoody Visser, age 91 of North Huntingdon, passed away on April 7, 2026. She was born on May 13, 1934, in Pittsburgh, a daughter of the late John Boyle and Beatrice Gillespie Boyle. Bernice was a member of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church. Prior to her retirement, she worked as a secretary for Westinghouse. In her free time, Bernice liked to bake pies, and she was an excellent cook. She loved to spend time with her dogs. In addition to her parents, Bernice was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Cornelis Visser, and one grandson. She is survived by two sons, William Smoody (wife, Debra), and Robert Smoody, two daughters, Madelyn Setterberg (husband, Richard), and Christine Smoody, one stepson, Ken Visser (wife, Annette), one stepdaughter, Mary Lynn Zabelsky (husband, Greg), and five grandchildren. Friends will be received at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon, on Friday from 10 AM to 1 PM. A funeral service will take place at 1 PM in the funeral home chapel. Interment will follow in Penn Lincoln Memorial Park. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
April 07, 2026 |
By Jaycox-Jaworski Funeral Home - Crematory | Posted in: Jaycox-Jaworski Funeral Home & Crematory
Dolores "Dolly" K. McAraw, of White Oak, passed away peacefully on April 4, 2026, at her residence. Born January 23, 1935, in McKeesport, she was the daughter of the late Frank and Sophia (Wajda) Kustra. Dolly begins her journey to reunite with the love of her life, husband, James "Mitch" McAraw, who preceded her in death.
Dolly retired from Bell Telephone, where she worked as a secretary and was also a self-employed tax professional. She was a member of the P.N.A #352 and Mary, Mother of God Parish.
Dolly's life could best be summed up by her frequent proclamation, "I lived a great life - I had the best husband, I raised terrific kids who married wonderful wives, have a precious granddaughter, and was blessed with friendships of all ages throughout my life." Though Dolly had a strong Faith, she carried regrets and said, " I know the Good Lord is going to welcome me to Heaven, but before I take a seat, I plan to have a heart-to-heart talk with him" - referencing the untimely passing of her oldest son, Jimmy, one month shy of his 40th birthday.
Dolly embodied the word FUN. She laughed easily and often. She loved nothing better than to sit with family or friends, swapping stories with her "Fudds", sitting next to Mitch having a cold beer while playing the jukebox at the PNA, reading her library of books, or listening to her Polkas, Elvis, Country Rock, and "any music that has a beat".
Friendship played a huge role in Dolly's life, from the days of Hose, Connie, Gert, and Stretch, to the FUDDS, and to all of the friends of friends she met through her boys and family. Grace, compassion, loyalty, and laughter were not only words but values that embodied Dolly.
Courageously, Dolly faced the battle of declining health and suffering, yet fought to remain viable in her later years. Dolly knew she suffered from dementia, but took the illness in stride, thanking God for all the wonderful times in her life.
Dolly was preceded in death by her husband, Mitch (the noted best husband in the world); her oldest son, Jimmy; beloved granddaughter, Kelsey (my Gift from God); step-mother Catherine (Dudek) Kustra; brother, Frank Kustra; niece Katherine Kustra, and other beloved family members.
She is survived by sons, John "Spanky" McAraw and his wife Christina; Ray McAraw and his wife Diane; nephew Vincent DiAngelo and nephews, Robert and Joseph Kustra.
Lastly, Dolly and her family have to acknowledge the Suncrest Hospice Services for the care provided to not only Dolly but also her family as well. New friends, and true angels on earth, Kellie and Missy, were absolute Godsends in Dolly's later days. They brought compassion and care as workers, as well as laughter, smiles, love, and so very much more to the McAraw Family. Dolly completed her journey with grace, and they played such a wonderful role in making that happen.
Na Zdrowie! Dziekuje for my memories! And Sto Lat to all!!
Family and friends will be received at Jaycox-Jaworski Funeral Home & Crematory on Friday, April 10, 2026, from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at 10 a.m., at Mary, Mother of God Parish, St. Angela Merici Church. The burial will follow at New St. Joseph Cemetery. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.jaycox-jaworskifh.com.
Chris Odasso, Supervisor
April 06, 2026 |
By Finney Funeral Homes | Posted in: Finney Funeral Homes
Juanita Delphine Madar “Nita” Martin, 78, a lifetime resident of Clairton, passed away on Monday, April 6th, 2026 at her home. She was born in McKeesport on September 30, 1947 to the late Stephen A. Madar and Delphine Juanita Madar. She is survived by her children Renee (Deon) Fontaine of West Mifflin and Armand A. (Jessica) Martin of Liberty Boro, siblings Sharon (Jack) Strange of West Newton, Steve (Evelyn) Madar of Jefferson Hills, Debbie (Roy) Curry of Sutersville, Brian Thomas “Tom” (Gwen) Madar of Elizabeth Twp., John (Natalie) Madar of Largo, FL, William (Lisa) Madar of Sutersville, Beth Ann (Jay) Reid of Carrick and Beverly (Wil) Brown of Clairton, grandchildren Brooke Johnson, Anthony Ogletree, Deon (Talia) Fontaine, Jr., Jordan (Trinity) Fontaine, Zachary (Cindy) Martin, Taylor Martin and bonus granddaughter Daonna Fontaine, great grandchildren Kayloni, Abel, Carmelo, Karmen and Kamryn, dear friend Patricia Bickerton and family, of Clairton as well as nieces and nephews. Juanita was preceded in death by her birth parents, her step-mother who raised her, Dolores Madar, and sister Joyce Dunmeyer. She was previously employed at U.S. Steel Clairton Works for 15 years and later retired from Alcosan Sewage Authority as a billing clerk after 22 years. She also spent some time working at LaPensione Personal Care Home as a nursing assistant for 5 years. She enjoyed spending time with her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren, and playing cards with friends and family. Family and friends will be received on Thursday, April 9, 2026 from 2:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. at S.M. FINNEY FUNERAL HOME, 432 N. 6th St, Clairton, PA 15025. A service will take place Friday at the funeral home at 10:00 A.M.to be followed by interment at Penn Lincoln Memorial Park. Online condolences may be offered at www.finneyfuneralhome.com
April 06, 2026 |
By Wojciechowski Funeral Home | Posted in: Wojciechowski Funeral Home
Gertrude Ann “Trudy” Rusnock, 65, of Glassport, passed away peacefully at Shadyside Hospital on April 6, 2026. She is the daughter of Julia Ann Rusnock and the late Albert A. Rusnock. She is survived by sisters Belinda (Wayne) Lewis and Juliann Puckett; nieces and nephews Wayne “Beanie” (Robyn) Lewis, Katie (Michael) Volpe, Anthony (Kaylee) Lewis, Ashley Puckett and Holly (Dave) Price; great nieces and nephews Taylor, Reese, Mason, Hunter, Saylor, Meadow, Aubree and Chloe; extended sister to Lisa (Gary) Simko; godmother to Jennifer Sydeski Factor and Chris Simko. In addition to her father she was preceded in death by her best friend Linda Sydeski. Trudy was a member of the Monroeville Senior Citizens and was a retired school/day care teacher for the McKeesport Alliance Church and was also employed by AT & T, T-Mobile and was a service specialist at different locations. Friends will be received at the Wojciechowsk Funeral Home on Thursday from 5 to 8 pm.
April 06, 2026 |
By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory
Edward J. Thornton, age 90, of Forward Twp., passed away Saturday, April 4, 2026 in Jefferson Hospital. An Air Force veteran having served during the Korean War, he retired as a chemical catalyst technician at Hercules Chemical Company in West Elizabeth. He was a member of Triumph of the Holy Cross Parish, St. Clare of Assisi Church in Clairton, where he was a member of the choir. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He loved to golf and play Euchre. He was an excellent trumpet player and loved listening to music, especially brass band music. Born October 31, 1935 in Elizabeth, he was a son of the late John R. and Ella Mae (O’Connor) Thornton and husband of the late Carol A. (Felicetty) Thornton. He is survived by his children, Mark (Suzanne) Thornton of Gloucester, VA, Paul (Val) Thornton of Forward Twp., Lynda (Larry) Rhodes of Medina, OH, Denise (Jeff) Leach of South Park and Matthew Thornton of Forward Twp.; 21 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; sister, Carol Ann Feruck of Alpharetta, GA; also, nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by his son, Brian Thornton, and brothers, J. Bernard, William and Richard Thornton. Friends will be received in the Paul E. Bekavac Funeral Home, 221 North Second Avenue, Elizabeth, on Wednesday, April 8, 2026 from 4:30 to 7 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be Thursday, April 9, 2026 at 10 AM in St. Clare of Assisi Church. Burial will follow in Round Hill Cemetery, Elizabeth Twp. Offer condolences at www.bekavacfuneralhome.com.
April 06, 2026 |
By Strifflers Family Funeral Homes | Posted in: Strifflers Family Funeral Homes
Joan M. Smith, age 90, of White Oak, PA, passed away on Friday, April 3, 2026. She was born in McKeesport, PA on June 28, 1935 and was the daughter of the late Frank and Mary Sharik Smith. Joan obtained her bachelor’s degree in education from Slippery Rock University and later was employed as a teacher at the former Lincoln School in White Oak, PA for many years. She was a member of the East Suburban Friendship Club; Parent Teacher Association; Pennsylvania State Education Association; and the McKeesport College Club.
Read More
April 06, 2026 |
By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory
Sandra Maksin Schmerin of Gibsonia, Pennsylvania passed away on April 3 at the age of 72 following an all-too-brief battle with cancer. Sandy was a beloved daughter, granddaughter, sister, niece, cousin, aunt, friend, neighbor, and – most notably – wife and mother. She touched the lives of many with her warmth, sense of humor, creativity, and curiosity. She will be remembered for making everything better – whether it was a dinner party or a walk around North Park.
Growing up in Clairton, Pennsylvania provided Sandy with stories and relationships that lasted a lifetime. She loved both where she was from and the immediate and extended family that raised her there. After graduating from Clairton High School, she attended the University of Pittsburgh, which went on to play a starring role in her life. It’s where she earned both her undergraduate and graduate degrees and then had her professional career. It’s also where she met her husband and many of her lifelong friends.
She was a role model in the art of making and keeping friends. She was the common thread that brought so many together, and oftentimes when people reflect on how they met various friends, the answer was simple: “Sandy introduced us.” She kept greeting card stores in business – never forgetting to acknowledge someone on their birthday or special occasion. In recent years, when her friends had grandkids and her children’s friends had babies, she mailed cards and stickers to all of them. Prior to any holiday, her dining room table looked like an outpost of the USPS.
She was equally passionate about the sports teams she supported as the arts she frequented. It was not uncommon for her to cheer on Pitt or the Steelers and attend the symphony or a play in the same day. She was a passionate, knowledgeable sports fan whose car radio was always tuned to local sports talk, and she loved attending big games – most recently traveling to Ireland to cheer on the Steelers. Over the course of her life, she was in the stands at the Super Bowl, Fiesta Bowl, Orange Bowl, Rose Bowl, Sugar Bowl, the Masters, Wimbledon, the World Series, and more, as well as an immeasurable number of T-ball through high school baseball games cheering on her son. When it came to the arts, she went to it all – from her daughter’s musicals to museum exhibits, movies, Broadway, even the Candlelight Processional at Epcot.
Speaking of Disney World, alongside New York City and London, it was perhaps her most frequented and beloved destination. She was there with her own parents the year it opened and celebrated the resort’s 50th anniversary with her children and grandchildren. It was her happy place, and everyone joked that she didn’t require a park map to navigate – she was the map. Travel brought her immense joy. Whether it was a road trip to Maine to take in fall foliage, a last-minute deal to Iceland, the annual Hilton Head week, or a long flight to Japan to mark her birthday – she always said yes, enthusiastically, to seeing more of the world.
That’s because she was a lifelong learner. First, in her collegiate studies, earning dual degrees in education. She then worked at Pitt’s School of Health Related Professions. After becoming a mom, she chose to stay home with her children and build a household and family that celebrated learning, new experiences, and doing the right thing. Perhaps the best example of this was the 1995 spring break vacation she planned that her family teased her about for many years after. They went to Las Vegas and instead of hanging out in the casino or at the pool all day, she found a chocolate factory in the middle of the desert and made “the gang” go on an hour-long tour to understand how cocoa beans turn into candy bars.
Read More
