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Bernice Lucille "Lu" Koon

January 07, 2022 |

By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory

Bernice Lucille "Lu" Koon, 93, of Port Vue, passed away Monday, January 3, 2022. She was born August 23, 1928 in Apollo and was the daughter of the late Charles and Mildred (Armstrong) Edwards. She was the wife of the late Gordon Eynon Koon who passed away March 26, 2010. She was a member of Port Vue United Methodist Church and the FOD Women's Club there.

 
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Kathleen Ann Trafalis

January 06, 2022 |

By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory

Kathleen Ann Trafalis, 56, of Elizabeth, passed away Wednesday, January 5, 2022. She was born August 12, 1965 in New Rochelle, NY and was the daughter of the late Ronald and Noreen (Stragand) McEvoy. Kathleen was a long time member of St. Joachim & Anne Parish - St. Michaels Church. Kathleen was a wonderful wife and took great care of her family. She is survived by her husband Charles "Chuck" V. Trafalis, daughter, Amy Noreen Trafalis and her boyfriend Josh Niebrzydowski, mother-in-law, Nancy Trafalis, brother, Timothy McEvoy, of Elizabeth, sister-in-law, Linda McEvoy, of Elizabeth, nephew, Ronald McEvoy, best friend, Aiko Kunf, and many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. Kathleen is preceded in death by her brothers, Jamie and Ronald McEvoy. There is no visitation. Arrangements are by the Gilbert Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc. 6028 Smithfield Street, Elizabeth Township. (412) 751-5000 Drew J. Gilbert, director. Condolences can be made at Gilbertfuneralhomeandcrematory.com

 


Mary Louise Cappello

January 05, 2022 |

By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory

Mary Louise Cappello, 59, of Liberty Boro, passed away Saturday, January 1, 2022. She was born May 11, 1962 in Philadelphia and was the daughter of the late Frederick William and Margaret (Duffy) Voigt. Mary has touched countless hearts over the course of her life. All that know and love her would agree that she was the most selfless, genuine and caring person. She was the type of person that always let you know that it was more than okay to just be yourself. Mary has taught us all what it means to love with your whole heart and soul. May we carry that love in our hearts, and continue to share it with others, as she did. 

 
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Arthur William (Butch) Balogh

January 05, 2022 |

By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory

Arthur William (Butch) Balogh, 75, of Elizabeth Township, formerly of Liberty Borough, passed away from this life on Thursday, December 30, 2021 at home after a lengthy illness. Arthur was born March 12, 1946 in McKeesport and was raised in Liberty Borough. He was the son of the late Arthur and Elizabeth (Halavacs) Balogh. He attended the Free Hungarian Reformed Church of McKeesport with Daniel Borsy; religious leader. Arthur was known as honorable steadfast, self confident, dependable and faithful to family and friends alike. He was much beloved by all of those who knew him. He was an avid and brilliant radio enthusiast as he built many radios and Tesla coils, start to finish. He was also a collector of antique radios and equipment, repairing many thought to be unsalvageable.

 
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John Regis Osheka

January 03, 2022 |

By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory

John Regis Osheka, 72, of North Huntingdon, passed away Friday, December 31, 2021. He was born March 1, 1949 in Pittsburgh and was the son of the late John and Regina (Krauth) Osheka. John accomplished many things in his life, he obtained his Master of Science in Education from Duquesne University, he taught biology in the Pittsburgh Public School District, obtained his Doctorate of Education from the University of Pittsburgh, was Assistant Superintendent at West Jefferson Hills School District and Superintendent at South Allegheny and New Brighton School Districts.  After retiring he became an Educational Consultant.  John’s passion for the remaining years of his life were dedicated to working with his Golden Retrievers, Sundance and Sunny. He had them trained for Search and Rescue, Drug detection, Grief Counseling (HOPE-Animal-Assisted Crisis Response Team), and Pitt Paws at the Pittsburgh International Airport.  He taught Sniff classes for years training many different breeds of dogs. John was a member of the Greater Pittsburgh Golden Retriever Club, “GRIN” Golden Retrievers in Need (Rescue Club), the Butler County K9 team and a K9 handler with White Oak Search and Rescue.

 
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Verla Elizabeth Piper

January 03, 2022 |

By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory

Verla Elizabeth Piper, 88, of Elizabeth Township, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, January 1, 2022. She was born February 9, 1933 in Elizabeth and was the daughter of the late Bryan and Sarah (Doyle) McCurry. She was the wife of the late William "Bill" Francis Piper who passed away December 1, 2016. She was a member of Sts. Joachim and Anne Parish- St. Michael Church, Elizabeth Township, Elizabeth Township Senior Citizens and was a volunteer at Meals On Wheels and the Central Food Pantry. Verla and her late husband Bill loved to Square Dance.

 
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William Arthur Rowan

December 29, 2021 |

By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory

William Arthur Rowan, 85, of Jeannette, passed away Tuesday, December 28, 2021 at home. He was born October 29, 1936 in Connellsville and was the son the late Arthur and Ruth (Ohler) Rowan. He was the husband of 54 years to the late Lillian Catherine "Kay" (Love) Rowan, who passed away April 2, 2012.  William worked at Westinghouse and was an electrical engineer there for over 15 years. He was the past Exalted Ruler and a lifetime member of the Norwin Elks. He also enjoyed his happy hour vodka.  He will be greatly missed.  He is survived by his daughter, Wendy (the late John) Grandy of Manor, son, Curt (Debbie) Rowan of Maricopa, AZ, grandchildren, Rachel (Cory) Sementuh, Samantha (Greg Spencer) Grandy, Jessica Rowan and Nicholas Rowan, 5 great-grandchildren, as well as nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his siblings.  As per William's wishes there is no visitation or services. Arrangements are by the Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 1638 Lincoln Way, White Oak (412) 672-6322 Troy J. Gilbert, Director.  Condolences may be made at GilbertFuneralHomeandCrematory.com

 


Margaret V. Ferencz

December 28, 2021 |

By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory

Margaret V. Ferencz, peacefully fell asleep in the Lord on Tuesday, December 21, 2021 in her own home, watched over by four of her eight children. Margaret was born in Rankin in 1927. She and her husband George raised their two daughters and six sons in Elizabeth Township. After George passed in 1988, she moved to St. Petersburg, FL, near her younger brother Ray and his family. Well into her 80s, Margaret enjoyed traveling, going on cruises and tours, and visiting her children up north. She offered community service, visiting people in the hospital and the nursing homes. She often offered up her time driving the "old folks" to the doctor's office or to the store. Margaret moved again to Winston Salem, NC, near two of her sons and spent her final years in peace and contentment, being cared for by her children. She lived a full life and God blessed her throughout her years and in her final moments. Margaret was preceded in death by her husband George, her two brothers John and Ray and a sister Maria who passed away in childhood.

 
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Curtis Lee Wood

December 28, 2021 |

By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory

Curtis Lee Wood, 54, of West Newton, passed away Friday, December 24, 2021 in Westmoreland Regional Hospital, Greensburg. He was born February 22, 1967 in Greensburg and was the son of the late Claude Wood, Sr., and the late Margaret E. (Trayter) Wood. Curt was a Journeyman Machinist and a long-time employee of King Cole Pools.  He is survived by his daughter, Ashley Wood and granddaughter Emma of Rillton, brothers, Albert Wood and Claude Wood, Jr., sister, Margaret Paulus, and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his sister, Claudine Wood. 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 www.gilbertfuneralhomeandcrematory.com

 


Madelyn Ryan

December 27, 2021 |

By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory

Mary "Madelyn" M. Ryan, 72, of Elizabeth Township, passed away Thursday, December 23, 2021.  Madelyn was born November 7, 1949 in McKeesport and was the daughter of the late James Albert and Mary Elizabeth (Lynch) Fiore.  She was the wife of 52 years to the late Edward P. Ryan, who passed away August 8, 2021, for whom she was an excellent caretaker. She attended both St. Michael Church in Elizabeth Township and Community United Methodist Church in Harrison City. She worked as a hairdresser for over 50 years.  Madelyn lived her entire life for her family and  loved being with her late husband, her children, and her grandchildren. When she wasn't caring for her family, she enjoyed bowling, card games, watching game shows and doing puzzles.  She will be greatly missed. 

 
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Emma Marie Piplica

December 22, 2021 |

By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory

Emma Marie Piplica,  95, of Liberty Boro, passed away on Tuesday, December 21, 2021. She was born March 14, 1926 in McKeesport and was the daughter of the late Michael and Anna (Powell) Petro. She was the wife of the late Nick Piplica who passed away on June 18, 2005. She was a member of Sts. Joachim and Anne Parish-St. Eugene Church in Liberty Boro. Emma's greatest joy was her family. She took time to make everyone near her feel special and loved. Her heart was so big. She enjoyed making rugs, playing bingo, gambling and shopping, especially at the thrift stores.

 
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Robert James Calabrese

December 20, 2021 |

By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory

Robert James Calabrese, 52, of West Newton, passed away Friday, December 17, 2021. He was born February 27, 1969 in Pittsburgh and was the son of Arthur Robert Calabrese and Roxanne Williams. He is survived by his sons, Jacob Tyler Martin of White Oak and Giovante Calabrese of Donegal, granddaughter, Angelina Calabrese, brother, Richard Casorio of Armada, MI., sister, Tina Gilbert of Fairfield, and his companion, Jackie Hepler of West Newton.  He was preceded in death by his sister, Terri Pert. There is no visitation. Arrangements are by the Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 1638 Lincoln Way, White Oak. (412) 672-6322 Troy J. Gilbert, Director. Condolences may be made at Gilbertfuneralhomeandcrematory.com

 


Dana (Byers) Lewis

December 19, 2021 |

By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory

Dana L. (Byers) Lewis, 50, of North Huntingdon, passed away Friday, December 17, 2021. She was born January 26, 1971 in McKeesport and was the daughter of Darrell L. Byers of North Huntingdon and the late Kay Eileen (Sterner) Byers who passed away June 24, 2015. Dana was a graduate of Norwin High School and California University of Pennsylvania. In addition to her father, she is survived by her husband, Sam "Buddy" K. Lewis, son, Mason G. Lewis at home, daughter, Madison R. Walters and  granddaughter, Jordan K-lynn Martin of Florida, sister, Lori (Bill) Salitrik of Connellsville, brother, Darrell J. (Tammi) Byers of Waynesburg, aunts, uncles and cousins. Friends are welcome Tuesday, December 21, 2021 from 10 am to 1 pm  at the Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 6028 Smithfield Street, Boston, Elizabeth Township. (412) 751-5000 Drew J. Gilbert, Director. Service will be held in the funeral home chapel on Tuesday, December 21, 2021 at 1 pm. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the National Down Syndrome Society @ 1-800-221-4602. Condolences may be made at Gilbertfuneralhomeandcrematory.com

 


Michael David Kovac

December 16, 2021 |

By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory

Michael David Kovac, 57, of McKeesport, passed away Thursday, December 16, 2021 at home after a courageous battle with cancer.  He was born October 24, 1964 in Washington, DC and was the son of  Patricia Ann (Allen) Kovac of McKeesport.  Michael loved heavy metal music, most notably Ozzy Osbourne and also enjoyed playing guitar.  He had a love for all comic books, SciFi movies, Star Trek and all things science.  He will be greatly missed.  In addition to his mother, he is survived by sister, Robin (Eric) Anderson of Greenock, niece, Raychel Kovac of Greenock, cousins, Debbie (Jimmy) Miller of Dravosburg, Dennis (Melanie) Glaub of Liberty Boro, and Jordan Nunez of Dravosburg and other members of extended family.  He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Mike and Ellen Allen and his aunt, Dorothy Everly. 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

 


Ruth Frencik Schwirian

December 16, 2021 |

By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory

Ruth Frencik Schwirian, 91, of Elizabeth Twp., died Wednesday, December 15, 2021. Ruth was born in Frank, PA on July 18, 1930 and was the daughter of the late Gertrude Rhoades Frencik and Henry (Heinie) Frencik. She was the wife of the late Curtis Andrew Schwirian, who passed away July 14, 1975. Ruth leaves one son, Scott (Kim) Schwirian of Elizabeth Twp., and one granddaughter, Laci. Ruth was a proud 1948 band member and graduate of McKeesport High School and later received her degree from The Indiana State Teachers College, now known as IUP, where she was affiliated with Zeta Tau Alpha. 

 
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