July 30, 2025 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home

Ruth "Jane" Wright, age 88 of North Huntingdon, passed away on July 28, 2025. She was born on September 16, 1936 in Jefferson City, Missouri, a daughter of the late Edward Schroer and Minnie Gordon Schroer. Jane was the co-owner of M&J Floral in West Hempfield, and she was also an administrative clerk at Johnson's Greenhouse from where she retired. Jane and her husband, Jerome, were founding members of the Norwin Soccer Club. Jane liked to read and she was known for her delicious baking. She had a talent for yarn-craft and took pride in her knitting, sewing, and crocheting. Most of all, Jane cherished her role as a home-maker and she loved the time spent with her family. In addition to her parents, Jane was preceded in death by her beloved husband Jerome Wright in 2019, two brothers Robert "Shake" Schroer and Kenneth Schroer, one sister Betty Davis, and her stepfather Gus Humbrock. She is survived by two sons, Walter Wright (wife Bridget), and Jerry Wright Jr. (wife Faith), two daughters Marsha Meyers (husband Chuck), Kathy Novacek (husband Dave), two sisters Margaret Kampeter and Mary Ann Distler, grandchildren Charlie (wife Jamie), Brianna, A.J., Miranda, Katie, and Tally, and great-granddaughters, Savannah, Bella, and Nova. Friends will be received at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon, on Friday from 2 to 4 PM and 6 to 8 PM. A funeral service will take place in the funeral home chapel on Saturday at 10 AM with interment to follow in Penn Lincoln Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be given in Ruth's name to the Norwin Public Library. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
July 28, 2025 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home

David B. Kaminsky Sr., age 83 of Westmoreland County, was born on September 13, 1941 and passed away on July 27, 2025. He was a devoted individual who contributed to his community. Mr. Kaminsky retired from Irvin Works of West Mifflin, where he dedicated many years of service. He was a proud member of the WMBU and the Elizabeth Township Sportsmen's Association. David was the beloved child of Helen and John Kaminsky. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Patricia in 1993, sister Dorothy J. and brother John, both of McKeesport, PA. He is survived by his children, Debora Shidemantle and David Kaminsky Jr. (wife Jayme). David was Grandfather of Ross, Jessica, and Christopher. He was Pappy Dave to Riley, Rhyan, Talon, Brayden, Jaxson, and Maverick. Friends will be received at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon on Wednesday from 9 to 10:30 AM. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be given in David's name to the Elizabeth Township Sportsmen's Association. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
July 24, 2025 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Regis Snyder, age 76 of North Huntingdon, passed away on July 23, 2025. He was born on September 27, 1948 in McKeesport. Prior to his retirement, Regis was employed as a machine operator. The staff of Kadima at North Huntingdon, formerly Briarcliff nursing home, became his family. Regis will be missed by the entire crew. He always looked forward to playing bingo with his friends, watching sports on TV, and singing Christmas carols. There will be no public visitation. Regis’s friends would like to extend a special thank-you to Bridges Hospice for their care and compassion. James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon, in charge of arrangements. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
July 22, 2025 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home

Janet Victoria (Vickie) Ropar passed away from dementia on July 21, 2025 at Mountain View Senior Center, Greensburg. Born November 20, 1959 in Casper, Wyoming, her young family soon moved to western Pennsylvania. Vickie was the beloved wife of Joe Ropar (of NHT), and daughter of Carole Reynolds Crookston and the late Albert Crookston. A 1978 graduate of Norwin High School, Vickie then earned an Associate's Degree in Graphic Art and Design from WCCC, which complimented her lifelong talents as an artist. After raising her children, she returned to the workforce with Style and Substance Art Gallery, Rescue 8, and Airtek. Throughout her life, she loved dogs, and owned/raised some of the best girls ever (Tootsie, Sadie, Bailey, Bristol, and Charlotte). Dover, her current dog, became a very good boy, but he dearly misses Vickie. Another endearing love of Vickie's was auto racing, which she supported on all levels since childhood as a shared family passion. For over 20 years, she actively supported the Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix, volunteering as a flagger, timer, scorer, and registar. Being renowned as a cook and baker, her buffalo hot wings were extraordinary and her buckeyes were legendary. She also enjoyed camping, reading, and PIRATES games with family and friends. Vickie is survived by her husband Joe of 46 years, son Bryan, daughter Sarah (Ronnie) Moore, mother Carole Crookston, sister Dr. Kathy (Coleman) Curran, and several nieces and nephews. Services will be private. Contributions may be made in Vickie's name to a charity of your choice. Our family gives sincere thanks to Medi Home Hospice and the staff of Mountain View Senior Care, you folks rock! James W. Shirley Funeral Home 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon, in charge of arrangements. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
July 19, 2025 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Judith “Judy” E. Schubert, 79, formerly of Monroeville, went home to be with the Lord on July 19, 2025, at William Penn Care Center, Jeannette. She was born October 10, 1945, in Pittsburgh, daughter of the late Richard and Oneta Planert. She graduated from Penn Hills High School, Class of ’63, where she met her beloved late husband, William “Bill” Schubert. Judy was a member of Grace Life Church and worshiped with members of Cornerstone Church at the care facility. She was also preceded in death by her sister and best friend, Christine Derringer.
Prior to her health decline, Judy enjoyed traveling to new places, trips to the Outer Banks every summer, her bowling league, trying new restaurants and a good party. In those years she looked forward to hosting family and friends for epic 4th of July picnics. She put her heart and soul into selecting the best gifts and hosting holidays at her house, was a huge dog lover all her life, and was converted to a cat lover when she met Misty “Puss-Puss” who chose her as her human.
She is survived by sons Michael (Carla) of Liberty Boro and Mark (Melanie) of Pitcairn; grandchildren Josie and Bryce Schubert, Courtney Schubert and Malinda (Kenny) Parker, “insta-grands” Jayda Medgaus, Renata (Ryan) Bushik, Gino (Christina) Martin, Tori (Mike) Mace, and precious great-grandchildren Mia, Landon, Ethan, Braxton, Kaisley, Leo, Thia, Parker, Emiliana, Sophia and the newest addition, Kenneth.
There will be no public visitation. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon in charge of arrangements. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
July 19, 2025 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Nicholas M. Muro, age 85 of Monroeville died July 18, 2025, at Forbes Regional Hospital. He was born September 5, 1939, in Wilmerding, a son of the late Peter and Angela Muro. Nick was a graduate of Wilmerding High School. He later attained this master's degree in science and Math from Pitt University. Prior to his retirement, he employed as a high school math and geometry teacher for East Allegheny High School. He was also the public relations director and Football Coach. Following retirement, Nick continued working various jobs. He ran titles for Cochran Pontiac Car Dealership, was a chaperone for Preferred Casio Tours and was a limousine driver. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his stepdaughter, Danielle McCann. He is survived by his beloved wife of 30 years, Nancy Macchione Muro, stepson Nicko Wilson (Emily), step son-in-law, Eric McCann, two brothers, Peter Muro (Michelle) Robert Muro (Claudia). Friends will be received at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon on Wednesday from 2-8 P.M. A funeral service will be held Thursday at 11 A.M in the funeral home chapel with intermet to follow at Irwin Union Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Wounded Warriors Project. www.shirleyfuneralhome. com.
July 17, 2025 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Lance P. Schlegel, age 79 of Irwin passed away on July 16, 2025, at his home. He was born on July 31, 1945, in Wilkinsburg, a son of the late Joseph and Clair Kampert Schlegel. Lance was a member of Immaculate Conception Church in Irwin. He was a veteran of the United States Army having served during the Vietnam War. Prior to his retirement, Lance was employed as a storeroom attendant by the Elliott Company. He was a graduate of Greensburg Central Catholic High School Class of 1963. Lance was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed golfing. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother Joe Schlegel. He is survived by his beloved wife, Karen Perbonish Schlegel, one son Marc and his wife Peggy, two brothers, Gary and Robert Schlegel, four sisters, Rose Bauman, Bonnie Johnson, Sandy Rinaldi and her husband Don, Lorraine Konch and her husband Gary, and one granddaughter Caitlyn. Friends will be received at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon on Sunday, July 20, 2025, from 2-6 P.M. An additional celebration of life will be held on Lance's birthday, Thursday, July 31 from 4-7 P.M. at Moments Event Center (Hall in back of Shirley Funeral Home parking lot). Memorials may be made to Wounded Warriors Project or Tunnels to Towers. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com.
July 16, 2025 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
David Michael Reuss, age 36 of Herminie, passed away at home on July 15, 2025. After one year in the hospital, he came home and peacefully fell asleep in his own bed. He was preceded in death by his paternal grandmother, Martha H. Reuss. He is survived by his parents David S. and Christina Stairs Reuss, three brothers, Andrew and Sabria (Gasper), Thomas and Desiree (DeClaudio), Michael and Melaina (Brown), and the love of his life Trista (Globosky) Weiss and Dr. Leonard Weiss, paternal grandfather George F. Reuss and maternal grandparents Victor and Dolores Stairs. He will also be missed by his favorite Aunt who was always there for him, Pamela (Stairs) Kuhn and his favorite uncle George D. Reuss who would give him the world, along with many aunts, uncles, and cousins. He loved his nieces and nephews, Charlotte, August, Brooks, Eliana, Willow, and Harlow. His smile and humor would light up the room. His love for life was contagious despite some obstacles, but he overcame those. He loved his dogs, Shiloh, Vegas, Ruby, and Springs, and his three cats, especially Twinkles. He loved "Bro" night with Michael, selling and planting his flowers, gardening sunflowers, and caring for his bee hives. He did many things throughout his life, like riding on a quad, family vacations to Myrtle Beach, parasailing, rollercoasters, boat rides, WWE, NASCAR, horseback riding, hunting, fishing, having a Bud-Light Lime with Dad, skiing, calling and texting on his phone, being the center of attention, hanging out with his brothers, all-night parties after high school dances, scavenger hunts with Trista, being a best man and groomsman in weddings: Andrew, Thomas, Michael, and Best Man at Trista's wedding. You will be missed by so many, our son, you are our best friend. You are loved wholeheartedly and unconditionally. Now you can walk, run, talk, see your dogs, and most importantly, live pain free. We love you, buddy. Look down upon all of us, as we are going to need it. Your eternal light is not out, but glowing brighter and stronger every day. This is not a goodbye, just until we meet again, my son and brother. In lieu of flowers, please donate to All But Furgotten Animal Shelter in David's memory. Friends will be received at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon, on Thursday from 4 to 8 PM and Friday from 2 to 8 PM. A funeral Mass will take place in St. Edward Parish in Herminie on Saturday at 12 Noon. Interment will follow in Immaculate Conception Cemetery in Irwin. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
July 14, 2025 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Kevin George Gongaware, 61, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, on July 12, 2025, at Forbes Regional Hospital. Born April 13, 1964, in Greensburg, he was the beloved son of the late Merle Gongaware and Norma Jean (Dunn) Wisser. A 1982 graduate of Norwin Senior High School and a 1984 graduate of Ohio Technical College, Kevin recently retired from his role as a commercial HVAC technical engineer for the Department of Energy. He was a proud member of the Pittsburgh chapter of the International Union of Operating Engineers (IUOE). Kevin was a skilled mechanic who could fix just about anything. A lifelong car enthusiast and motorcycle rider, he had a special love for Harley Davidsons. In addition to his parents, Kevin was preceded in death by his brother, Merle Keith, and his stepfathers, Joseph Chervenick and Glenn Wisser. He is survived by his brother, Kris (Jill); sisters, Janis Kljun (Andrew) and Jennifer Fitzgerald (Patrick); nephews, Ben (Erica), Jacob, and Joseph; nieces, Carly and Emma; his beloved Chow Chow, Cash; and many cousins and friends. In recent years, Kevin shared a particularly close bond with his “little sister” and her family. A survivor from the start, Kevin overcame childhood leukemia and was followed for decades as a long-term study participant at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Friends will be received at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon, on Thursday from 2–4 PM and 6–8 PM. A funeral service will be held on Friday at 11 AM in the funeral home chapel, with interment to follow at Irwin Union Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Kevin’s name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
July 14, 2025 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home

Grace A. Busha, age 82 of North Huntingdon, passed away on July 13, 2025. She was born on June 30, 1943 in East Pittsburgh, a daughter of the late John and Theresa Palarino. Grace was a graduate of East Pittsburgh High School in the class of 1961. Prior to her retirement, she was employed by National City , PNC, and Integra banks as a bank teller. In her free time, Grace enjoyed water aerobics and she liked to go on walks. She was also known as an excellent cook. In addition to her parents, Grace was preceded in death by five sisters, Mary "Honey" Parente (husband Tom), Helen Prosdicimo (husband Greg), Nancy Rutter (husband Don), Annette Mullen (husband Lloyd), and Congetta "Dolly" Palarino. She is survived by her beloved husband David Busha, one daughter, Tina Josselyn (husband Steven), one brother, John "Sonny" Palarino (wife Jean), one sister, Angie Spadaro (husband Joe), and two granddaughters, Maria (fiancé Griffin) and Jenna (fiancé Joe). Friends will be received at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon on Wednesday from 5 PM to 8 PM. A funeral Mass will take place in St. Agnes Church on Thursday at 9:30 AM. PLEASE GO DIRECTLY TO THE CHURCH. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be given in Grace's name to the National Kidney Foundation. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
July 13, 2025 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home

John H. Hilton Jr., age 80 of North Huntingdon, passed away on July 12, 2025. He was born on August 2, 1944 in Middletown, Ohio, a son of the late John Hilton Sr. and Mabel Hilton. John was a veteran of the United States Navy, having served for 11 years. Prior to his retirement, he was employed by Westinghouse as a training specialist. John always looked forward to exploring new destinations, and he made many memories while traveling the world with his wife Sherry. In addition to his parents, John was preceded in death by one brother, James Hilton. He is survived by his beloved wife Sherry Glasczko Hilton, one son Jonathan Petruska (wife Noelle), one daughter Megan Gibala (husband Ken), sisters-in-law Carole Hilton, Sandy Comiskey (husband Jim), and Carrie Lucotch (husband Mike), grandchildren Sydney, Alivia, and Jaycob Gibala, nieces Caitlin and Cori, nephew Michael, and his grandpuppy Maverik. In accordance with John's wishes, there will be no public visitation. A memorial service will be held at a later date to be announced. James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon in charge of arrangements. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
July 11, 2025 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home

Francine Kresicki (Serwonski), age 74 of North Huntingdon, passed away on July 10, 2025. She was born in Jeannette on June 25, 1951, a daughter of the late Joseph and Angeline (Zinna) Serwonski. Fran was a graduate of Norwin High School’s class of 1969, and she attended the teaching program at Edinboro University. She went on to fulfill a career as a secretary for the Westmoreland County Magisterial District Court. Fran was an excellent cook, she enjoyed spending time at the casino, and she always looked forward to vacationing at the beach. Most of all, Francine was an amazing mother and grandmother. She truly cherished the time she spent with her family. In addition to her parents, Francine was preceded in death by one brother, Carmelo Serwonski, brother-in-law Michael Anderson, and sister-in-law Barbara Tillery. She is survived by her devoted husband of 53 years, Anthony Kresicki, daughter Kimberly (Ian) Morrison, son Anthony (Jennifer) Kresicki, and beloved grandchildren Scott, Jacob, Aiden, Cooper, and Sophia, beloved sister Linda Anderson and brother Paul (Patricia) Serwonski. Friends will be received on Wednesday from 3 to 8 PM at the JAMES W. SHIRLEY FUNERAL HOME, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon. A Funeral Mass will be held at 10 AM on Thursday at Immaculate Conception Church in Irwin, officiated by Father John Harrold, a close family friend. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be given in Francine’s name to the American Cancer Society. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
July 09, 2025 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home

Donald A. Campbell, 95, passed away peacefully in his home on Monday, July 7, 2025 with his son, Tim, and daughter-in-law, Gail, by his side. Don was born in Monaca, PA on November 25, 1929. He was the son of the late George E. Campbell and Anna S. (Johnson) Campbell. He always spoke fondly of his childhood time living in Monaca. Don spent his formative years attending grade school in both McKeesport and White Oak and enjoying the carefree life of a typical American boy growing up during the depression and World War II. Throughout his teenage years, Don developed an incredible artistic talent. After graduating from McKeesport Vocational High School in 1947, he attended the Art Institute of Pittsburgh, where he earned his degree in Commercial Art in 1949. Don proudly served his country from 1951 to 1955 in the US Air Force during the Korean War, spending a large portion of his deployment stationed in Japan. Following his military service, he was employed by US Steel Duquesne Works for 30 years where he managed the stocking and distribution of spare parts for the bar mill, and for Pennex Corporation of Oakmont, retiring in 1995. As a 62-year resident of North Huntingdon, Don enjoyed a well-earned retirement. Activities with his family and long-time companion, Bernie, filled many leisurely days. He loved tinkering on cars with his son, Tim, and eating out at various local restaurants. Spending quality time with his loved ones meant everything to him. In addition to his parents, Don was preceded in death by his daughter, Victoria Campbell, his brothers Melvin and George, his sister, Ellen Jean Downes, his former wife and friend, Rita Campbell, and his long-time companion, Bernadine Lightner. He is survived by his sons, Timothy (Gail) Campbell and Christopher Campbell, grandson Evan Campbell and numerous nieces and nephews. Friends will be received at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon, on Friday, July 11, from 2 to 4 PM and 6 to 8 PM. A funeral service will take place on Saturday, July 12 at 10 AM in the funeral home chapel with interment to follow in Penn Lincoln Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Alzheimer’s Association (www.alz.org) or White Oak Animal Safe Haven. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
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 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