March 22, 2026 |
By Maloy-Schleifer Funeral Home | Posted in: Maloy-Schleifer Funeral Home
On Friday, March 21, 2026, a bright star began shining in the heavens as John “Butch” “Pap” Robert Starmack passed away. Born on March 10, 1942, he grew up in McKeesport, PA as part of a hard-working family whose Dad, Walter, served in the Navy in WWII. John was the first in his family to earn a college degree and believed in education so much that he eventually earned his Phd. from the University of Pittsburgh while teaching full-time, raising four children with his treasured wife, Kathryn, and running his father’s newspaper business to support his mother, Amelia, and grandmother, Mary. He was a high-school math teacher then became a college professor at the Community College of Allegheny County (CCAC) where he started the fast-paced math program for gifted high-school students which was the first of its kind educational program. He believed that nothing was impossible, just some things take longer than others. John succeeded in everything he did. He was inducted into the McKeesport Hall of Fame.
John was an extremely caring person and would give the shirt off his back to anyone who needed it. He never met a person that he did not like and everyone who met him admired and adored him at the same time. He loved sharing his wisdom through his stories and experiences, but most of all, he really loved having a good time. He believed in working hard and playing hard and loved sports. His home teams of Steelers, Pirates, and Penguins were often centers of excitement. In his younger days, he played football and ran track. Retirement found him many days on the golf course and when not there, on the beach.
He enjoyed wine in the afternoons and convinced his grandchildren that everyone has two stomachs with the bigger one for desserts, which is why you always have room for sweets. In his world, it is okay to eat dessert first. In retirement his passion for education turned to research. He would research with his grandchildren trying to find the best ice cream parlors around West Mifflin, PA and Myrtle Beach, SC.
He relished the 63 years of marriage with his wonderful wife, Kathryn, was extremely proud of his four children (John Jr., Michelle [John Silvestre], Tom, and Lana [John Carmichael]), and even prouder of his 9 grandchildren (Olivia, Tyler, Alex, Bubba, Michael/Elizabeth, Payton, Victor, Ryley, and Laci). His many neighbors and friends were considered family and he always talked dearly about them. He appreciated their friendship and time they spent with him.
John cherished his family and his family cherished him. He had quite a sense of humor and would say that the older you get, the smarter he became. It was true! He would also say that when you look back, you do not want to have any regrets so work hard but also enjoy people and have fun as best and as often as you can. He had no regrets and will be remembered for making everyone feel valued. He will always be a reminder to those who knew him to fully embrace life and cherish every moment together.
John is also survived by his sister Nancy Kennedy, sister-in-law Rose Starmack, and preceded in death by his brother Paul Starmack, and brother-in-law Abe Kennedy.
A visitation will be held on Friday, March 27, 2026 from 4:00 – 7:30 pm at MALOY-SCHLEIFER FUNERAL HOME, INC., 915 KENNEDY AVE., DUQUESNE, PA 15110, 412-466-3300, WILLIAM B. SCHLEIFER, SUPERVISOR, WILLIAM BRIAN SCHLEIFER AND ALLAN J. WEBER FUNERAL DIRECTORS.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, March 28, 2026 at 10:00 am at Our Lady of Hope Parish (St. Gabriel of the Sorrowful Virgin), 5200 Greenridge Dr., Pittsburgh, PA 15236.
Please dress in colorful clothing.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Coastal Cancer Center.
To make a donation, please send the following information to:
Carolina Cancer Foundation
8182 Rourk Street
Myrtle Beach, SC 29572
Please accept my contribution of $_____________ to the Carolina Cancer Foundation in Honor of John R. Starmack
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March 22, 2026 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Tammy Ruth Eversole, 63, of Versailles, passed away Wednesday, March 18, 2026 at home. She was born October 17, 1962 in McKeesport and was the daughter of the late Edward and Catherine (Bales) Alvarez. Tammy was the co-owner of the former M & T Garage in McKeesport and North Versailles, and had worked for over 20 years at AutoZone in Christy Park. She was a former member of the Boston United Methodist Church. Tammy was a good person, who enjoyed going camping and fishing. She was an avid TV watcher, who would watch whatever was on and loved to watch games shows. She also enjoyed playing Candy Crush. She will be greatly missed.
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March 21, 2026 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Bernice V. Morley, age 92 of Ardara, passed away on March 20, 2026, at her home. She was born on February 25, 1934, in Barnesboro, PA, a daughter of the late Anthony and Anna Sabella. Bernice was a member of St. Agnes Church in North Huntingdon. Prior to her retirement, she was employed in the Payroll Department at the Ebensburg Courthouse. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Richard Morley, on November 15, 2025, one brother, Anthony Sabella Jr., and one sister, Sadie Bogel. She is survived by two daughters, Diana Ruthardt (husband, Fred) and Toni Younkin (husband, Barry), six grandchildren, Paige Secosky, Joey Secosky, Patrick Habarka, Brennan Ruthardt, Logan Ruthhardt, and Caleb Ruthardt. All services are private. Interment will take place in Our Lady of Mount Carmel Cemetery in Barnesboro, PA. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Pet Adoption League at 211 East Pennsylvania Avenue, New Stanton PA, 15672. Arrangements by JAMES W. SHIRLEY FUNERAL HOME INC, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
March 20, 2026 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Joyce M. Hunter, age 70 of Wilkins Township, passed away on March 20, 2026, at Concordia at Bethlen Home in Ligonier. She was born March 25, 1955, in Pittsburgh, a daughter of the late George Hunter and Florence Lehman Hunter. Joyce was a member of St. John Fisher Parish in Churchill. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Penn State University and went on to fulfill a career in her field. In her free time, Joyce enjoyed working on crafts and knitting. Joyce is survived by one brother, Kevin Hunter (wife, Brenda), her nephew, Jason (wife, Melinda), her great-niece, Lillian, and many friends. Friends will be received at the JAMES W. SHIRLEY FUNERAL HOME, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon, on Tuesday from 3 to 7 PM. A blessing service will be held Wednesday in the funeral home chapel at 10 a.m. Interment will follow in Good Shepherd Cemetery. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
March 20, 2026 |
By Strifflers Family Funeral Homes | Posted in: Strifflers Family Funeral Homes
Donna Marie Kertis Yuhasz, age 66, of Greensburg, PA, formerly of West Mifflin, PA, died on Sunday, March 15, 2026. She was born in McKeesport Hospital on January 15, 1960, and was the daughter of the late Steve C. and Sarah R. Bowers Kertis. She graduated from West Mifflin South High School and later obtained an optician certificate. Donna was a great lover of all animals, including her two cats, Pooh and Tillie; her two dogs, Lobo and Blue; and her horse, Coco Butter/Silver.
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March 20, 2026 |
By Strifflers Family Funeral Homes | Posted in: Strifflers Family Funeral Homes
Karen Lee Chokey, age 79, of The Woodlands, Texas, passed away peacefully at her home on Saturday, March 14, 2026.
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March 20, 2026 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
JoAnne C. Druga, 91, of White Oak passed away Thursday, March 19, 2026. She was born in Wilpen, Westmoreland County, November 11, 1934 to the late Joseph and Mary (Sapida) Condrick. She was a loving wife of 62 years to the late Edward Druga, before his passing in July 2019. She was loved deeply by so many, known for her sweet and endearing nature that left a lasting impression on everyone she met. She cherished time spent with her friends and family, finding joy in simply being together. She especially loved her visits with the great-grandchildren, which brought her endless happiness and pride. Whether quietly playing solitaire or laughing around the table during card games at her son's farm, those moments brought her true joy and created memories that will be treasured forever.
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March 19, 2026 |
By Strifflers Family Funeral Homes | Posted in: Strifflers Family Funeral Homes
Patty Ann Love, age 80, of Homestead, PA, died on Thursday, March 19, 2026, surrounded by her family. She was born on February 27, 1946, in Fairmont, WV, to the late Arthur, Sr. and Pauline Vine Martin. She was the wife of the late John Thomas Love.
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March 19, 2026 |
By Willig Funeral Home | Posted in: Willig Funeral Home & Crematory
Jason M. Lumpkin, age 50 of McCandless, passed away at home on March 17, 2026. Born November 7, 1975, in McKeesport, he was the son of Karen (Chiaverini) Lumpkin and the late Danny Floyd Lumpkin.
Born and raised in McKeesport, Pennsylvania, Jason graduated from McKeesport Area High School in 1994. He went on to earn a bachelor's degree in accounting from Indiana University of Pennsylvania in 1998. His professional journey led him to Schneider Downs, where he served as a finance manager and ultimately achieved the respected designation of partner.
In addition to his professional accomplishments, Jason was a passionate traveler, often taking trips with Brandon to visit his brother, Danny, in Cincinnati and to explore cities such as Cleveland and Chicago. He found joy in the simple pleasures of life, including trips to the beach in Maryland. A true heavy metal enthusiast, Jason shared unforgettable moments with Brandon at concerts, with Metallica among their shared favorites.
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March 19, 2026 |
By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory
Patricia (Baldridge) Svitko, age 73 of Versailles, passed away at home on Tuesday, March 17, 2026. Born July 4, 1952 in McKeesport, she was a daughter of the late Edward and Mary Agnes (Martinik) Baldridge. A former administrator of housing at Carnegie Mellon University, who also worked at St. Joseph's Church in Port Vue, Patricia is survived by her sons Nathan (Erin) Svitko of Charlotte, NC and Derek (girlfriend Stephanie Wells) Svitko of Brookline; her siblings Ronald Baldridge of Rochester Mills, Ricki Vorkapich of McKeesport, Edward L. Baldridge, Jr., and Chrisann Gaska of New Hampshire; and also nieces and nephews. Besides her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister Ethel Mary Leone.
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March 19, 2026 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Douglas M. Sheppard, 67 of North Huntingdon died March 19, 2026, at his home. He was born August 21, 1958, in Scott Township, a son of the late Clyde and Betsy Sheppard. Prior to his retirement, Doug was employed as a press operator by the Fulmer Company in Murrysville. He is survived by his longtime companion, Rose Hauser Rosenberg for 30 years and her children Austin and Erin Rosenberg. Doug's favorite hobby was ham radio operating. There will be no public visitation. James W. Shirley Funeral Home, North Huntingdon in charge of arrangements. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com.
March 19, 2026 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Brian J. Cardiff, age 38, of North Huntingdon, met his Savior on March 16, 2026. Born on February 17, 1988, he was the son of Ken Cardiff and the late Karen Cardiff. Brian’s life was deeply shaped by his mother, whose love and strength not only gave him life, but sustained it through the first of two kidney transplants. Brian was a graduate of Norwin High School, where he took great pride in participating in wrestling, show choir, and various school activities. He was most recently employed as a driver for XPO. Prior to that, his work took him to the heartland of our nation, where he spent time in the oil and gas industry in North Dakota—an experience he spoke fondly of throughout his life. Brian had many passions, including woodworking, attending races at Jennerstown, hunting, and fishing with his brothers and close friends. He was especially known for his quick wit and humor, often lighting up a room with a perfectly timed joke or a memorable movie quote. His ability to recall movie lines at just the right moment never failed him. As a child, Brian was a recipient of Make-A-Wish, an organization that remained close to his heart throughout his life. He was also a devoted and outspoken follower of Christ, attending Faith Bible Baptist Church in Wilkins Township and Heritage Baptist Church of Jeannette. Brian will be remembered as someone larger than life who was deeply loved, incredibly strong and courageous. Those who knew him understand that his impact cannot be fully captured in words. He is survived by his father, Ken Cardiff, and his four siblings: Lorie (Donald) Impavido, Ken (Julie) Cardiff, Mark (Serina) Cardiff, and Steve (Brianna) Cardiff. He also leaves behind 16 nieces and nephews, whom he loved as if they were his own siblings and countless cousins. In addition to his mother, Brian was preceded in death by his grandmother, Violet Cardiff, and his beloved dog, Bandit. Friends will be received on Sunday, March 22, from 1 -7 PM at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon. Additonal visitation will be held from 10 - 11 AM at Heritage Baptist Church, 1015 Lowry Avenue, Jeannette PA, with a service to be held at 11 AM. PLEASE GO DIRECTLY TO THE CHURCH. Interment to follow at Penn Lincoln Memorial Park. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
March 18, 2026 |
By Willig Funeral Home | Posted in: Willig Funeral Home & Crematory
Wanda (Truszkowski) Evangelista, age 91, of McKeesport, formerly of Liberty Borough, died at her daughter's home on March 17, 2026. Born January 21, 1935, in Port Vue, she was the daughter of the late Frank and Anna (Sulesky) Truszkowski and the wife of the late George Evangelista.
Wanda was a devoted member of Saints Joachim and Anne Parish, nurturing her faith and fostering connections. Her career included McKeesport Super Dollar, Giant Eagle, and Ayres Pharmacy, where she warmly engaged with the public.
In her leisure time, Wanda embraced her creative side. She became an active participant in the church crochet club, where her love for crochet blossomed. She found joy in coloring and cherished the challenge of puzzles. Her spirit encouraged others to enjoy life's simple pleasures.
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March 18, 2026 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Norma Jean Painter age 87, of North Huntingdon, formerly of Port Vue passed away on March 17, 2026. She was born on May 3, 1938, in McKeesport, the daughter of the late Michael and Helen (Kushner) Sulak. She graduated in 1956 from McKeesport High School. Norma held various jobs throughout her life and retired from Medco/Merck. Along with her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband Robert C. (Bob) Painter in 2001. She is survived by her children: Jeanne Powanda (Allen), Robert C. Painter (Michelle), Susan Painter, and Lori Palm (Don); two grandsons, Nicholas Powanda and Matthew Palm; two great-grandsons; and numerous nieces, nephews, and “bonus” grandchildren. She is also survived by her brother Michael of Virginia, and her sister-in-law Vivian Schultz. Norma loved to laugh and have fun and could always take a joke or make one. She made friends everywhere she went. Although short, her stay at Point Pleasant in North Versailles was a very happy time in her life. The family would like to thank Norma's good friend and personal shopper, Sue and the staff of Point Pleasant for their care and compassion during her stay. There will be no public visitation. Interment will be private in Irwin Union Cemetery. JAMES W. SHIRLEY FUNERAL HOME, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon, in charge of arrangements. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
March 18, 2026 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Martha M. Drescher, age 73 of North Huntingdon, passed away on March 17, 2026. She was born on October 19, 1952 in McKeesport, a daughter of the late Harvey Dixon and Wilma Payne Dixon. Martha graduated from McKeesport High School in the Class of 1970. She was a woman of faith and follower of Jesus. She enjoyed oil painting, drawing, and crocheting. Martha was an animal lover. She was the proud owner of several dogs and birds. Most of all, she cherished the time that she spent with her family. In addition to her parents, Martha was preceded in death by three brothers, Kenny Dixon, Billy Dixon, and Danny Dixon, and one sister, Kathy Dixon. She is survived by her beloved husband, Kenneth Drescher, one son, Jason Drescher (wife Lauryl), one daughter, Jennifer Hayton (husband Walt), three brothers, Eddie Dixon, Dave Dixon, and Harvey Dixon, five sisters, Carol Hackett, Barb Dixon, Susie Gluscic, Karen Roe, and Julie Dixon, three grandchildren, Amanda Steban (husband Brian), J.J. Drescher, and Emma Drescher, and her favorite Shih Tzu, Charlie. Friends will be received at the JAMES W. SHIRLEY FUNERAL HOME, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon, on Friday from 2 to 5 PM. A blessing service will follow at 5 PM. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
