April 28, 2025 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Samuel K. Wood, age 77, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on April 26, 2025. A beloved parent, grandparent, brother, uncle, and friend, Sam will be remembered for a life full of adventure, laughter, and love. Born in Herminie, PA on August 15, 1947, Sam had a passion for the outdoors and a zest for life that was contagious. In his early years, he could often be found roller skating with friends & family as well competing in roller dance events with his partner and wife at the time, Ginny. He spent countless hours around trains, which fascinated him from an early age. He also enjoyed riding motorcycles on open roads and casting a line into his favorite fishing spots, simple pleasures that would remain lifelong passions. He was a dedicated Scoutmaster whose quiet strength, guidance, and unwavering commitment shaped generations of young lives, his legacy of service will live on in every Scout he mentored. As the years went on, he developed a deep love for camping at Big Bear Lake, WV where he spent most of his summers after his retirement with his wife, Dawn. He enjoyed many vacations to Myrtle Beach where he could be found metal detecting for hours, always on the lookout for the next hidden treasure or simply sitting on the balcony enjoying his gin & tonic and doodling
in his notebooks. He enjoyed many game nights with his dear friends who lovingly called themselves the B*tches. He was also a proud firearms enthusiast with a well-loved collection, appreciating both the history and craftsmanship of each piece. Above all, Sam cherished time with family. He created a lifetime of memories filled with love, laughter, and togetherness. His legacy will live on through the stories and the traditions passed
down through generations. Sam is survived by his cherished wife, Dawn Wolfram, adoring children Dyana Wood, Sarah Knight (Seth), his step-daughter Brandi Wolfram, his grandchildren, Ryan Schafer (Kayla), Madison Haley-Wood, Ashleigh Cornish, Lucius & Atticus Knight, his great-granddaughters Kambri and Kinley, his devoted sister, Melanie Wood, his favorite nieces Janine Pagano (Nic) and Jennifer Guncheon (Matt), his great-nephew Jonas and his fur niece, Izzy. He was preceded in death by his parents Samuel and Edith Wood and his favorite cousin and best friend Gary Kish. The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to physicians and especially his nurses Julia and Jenna, who provided compassionate care during his stay at UPMC Presbyterian Hospital. Their kindness and support will never be forgotten. Per his wishes, no services will be held. The family encourages those who knew him to honor his memory in their own way, whether by enjoying the outdoors, taking a quiet ride, or simply spending time with loved ones. Arrangements were entrusted to James W. Shirley Funeral Home, Inc, North Huntingdon. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
April 27, 2025 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Ronald Dinkfelt, age 81 of Swissvale died April 27, 2025 . He was born March 26, 1944 in Pittsburgh, a son of the late Albert and Mildred Maskowitz Dinkfelt. Prior to his retirement, Ron was employed by Union Switch and Signal. He was a very talented artist and an extraordinary portrait artist. He was preceded in death by two brothers Robert Dinkfelt and Louis Bednarczyk. He is survived by nieces and nephew, Dina Deanes, Bryan Sadlar and Lisa Khuns, great nieces and nephews Nisa DeFelice and Shayla Deans along with the Jack Maskowitz family. There will be no public visitation. Services will be private. Interment will be in Homewood Cemetery.
April 23, 2025 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Janet Jedrzejewski, age 76 of North Huntingdon, passed away on April 22, 2025. She was born on June 30, 1948 in Pittsburgh, a daughter of the late Frank Mitterer and Martha Demeter Mitterer. Janet was a graduate of Brentwood High School, and she earned an associate’s degree from Allegheny County Community College. Prior to her retirement, Janet was employed in the accounting department in Penny's, and also as a demonstrator at Sam's Club. Janet was a great cook, and she liked to work on crossword puzzles. In addition to her parents, Janet was preceded in death by one sister Elsie Homer. She is survived by her beloved husband Raymond Jedrzejewski, one son Raymond Jedrzejewski Jr., one daughter Leslie Jedrzejewski, and one brother Charles Mitterer. There will be no public visitation. James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon in charge of arrangements. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
April 22, 2025 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Herman E. Sieber, age 88 of North Huntingdon passed away April 20, 2025, at his home. He was born March 17, 1937, in Braddock, son of the late Herman and Anna Krause Sieber. Prior to retirement he worked at Bettis Nuclear Laboratories for 40 years and was a graduate of the University of Pittsburgh with a degree in Electrical Engineering. He was a long-serving dedicated member of Larimer Volunteer Fire Department and served as Fire Chief for over 50 years. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Carol Cardiff Sieber in 1995, sister Margaret Carrol, brother Thomas, son in law Eric Zona. He is survived by his children Lisa Sieber, Michael Sieber (Kathleen), Cynthia Zona, Robert Sieber (Lisa). and Ronald Sieber. Grandchildren, Jennifer Schmeltz, Daniel Giugliano, Matthew Giugliano (Kara), Scott Sieber (Rachel), Steve Sieber (Brianna), Megan Demarchi (Steve), Nick Zona, Ashley Sieber (Alberto), Sarah Sieber, Ryan Sieber, Kylie Sieber. Great Grandchildren, Erik, Karson, Tyler, Talan, Hudson, Baylor, Lily, Anthony, Carmelina, Juliana, and Vincent, sisters Mary Ann Medica (Paul) and Roberta Sieber. Herman was a husband, a father, grandfather, great grandfather, a volunteer, a teacher, and a mentor. His life was dedicated to his family and helping others. Herman was the person you went to for advice on just about everything. Visitation will be held on Thursday and Friday from 2-8 PM at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon. A blessing service will be held on Saturday at 9:15 AM in the funeral home. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Larimer Volunteer Fire Department. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
April 19, 2025 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Gina Gergely Buzzard, age 68 of Pittsburgh, formerly of North Huntingdon died April 19, 2025 at Transitions Health Care. She was born July 14, 1956 in McKeesport, a daughter of John and Jeannette Phillips Gergely. Gina was a 1974 graduate of Norwin High School. Prior to her retirement, she was employed as a secretary for the Allegheny County Courthouse. In addition to her parents, she is survived by three brothers, John (Brenda), Tom and David Gergely, four sisters, Vanassa Fearer (James), Cynthia Bellarin (Roger) Lucia Bulloch (Kory), Patricia Gergely and numerous nieces and nephews. There will be no public visitation. Arrangements were handled by James W. Shirley Funeral Home, North Huntingdon.
April 16, 2025 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Virginia Mae Dubosky, age 75 of North Huntingdon, passed away on April 15, 2025. She was born on November 12, 1949, in Braddock, a daughter of the late George Galbraith and Virginia Murray Galbraith. Virginia was employed as a cashier at the Davis Super Market in Greensburg. In addition to her parents, Virginia was preceded in death by one brother, Glenn Galbraith. She is survived by her beloved husband, Michael Dubosky, one daughter Danean Dubosky (and husband Nathan James), one granddaughter Kiara James, and her pet schnoodle, Tigger. There will be no public visitation. James W. Shirley Funeral Home in charge of arrangements, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
April 13, 2025 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Robert James Marefka, 82, of North Huntingdon, PA, passed peacefully on April 10, 2025. Born July 5, 1942, to the late John and Cecelia Kusimkowski Marefka in Claridge, PA. He was also preceded in death by his brothers, John and Theodore Marefka. Bob enjoyed gardening, painting, antiquing, and was an avid Pittsburgh sports’ team fan. He worked as a draftsman and later a computer draftsman at Westinghouse Electric/Bettis/Bechtel, Daimler-Benz, and Bombardier on defense and commercial projects. Bob was a graduate of Triangle Technical Institute. He is survived by his loving wife of 29 years, Roberta Gallick. Bob shared three children with his former wife, Betty Lou Marefka: Robert “Bobby” Marefka (Jill), Roxane Marefka (Tom Murphy), Tedd Marefka Trabert (Justin Trabert). Grandchildren Saray Marefka, Lorenzo Marefka (Lindsey) as well as many nieces and nephews of whom he was especially close to Emily and Hannah Dimmock. A private visitation was held at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon, Pennsylvania. A memorial will follow at a later date. Interment will be at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery, North Versailles, PA. In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made to Phipps Conservatory in Pittsburgh, https://my.conservatory.org/donate/i/tributes.
April 10, 2025 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
April 10, 2025 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Stanley G. Flinner, 68, of North Huntingdon, had a date with his Maker and his wife on April 10, 2025. Born October 25, 1956, Stan served as an electronic technician for the United States Postal Service for over forty years. He enjoyed caving, rock climbing, and attending Word of Life Church. In addition to wife, Debbie (Pennington) Flinner, Stan is predeceased by his father, Ernest E. Flinner; brother, Bradley Flinner; and son, D. “Bud” Flinner; as well as several aunts and an uncle. He leaves behind his loving daughter, Nikki Flinner; and dog, Aubi. Also surviving Stan are his mother, Helen Marie Flinner; niece, Julie (Drew) Paluch; and sister-in-law, Darlene Pennington - all of whom would like to offer a special thanks to the caretakers who served him the last few months. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the “Children’s Area of the Sewickley Twp Public Library (STPL) Building Fund” (in Herminie, PA). At his request, there will be no public viewing and a private interment will be held at Westmoreland County Memorial Park. Arrangements have been entrusted to JAMES W. SHIRLEY FUNERAL HOME, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon, Irwin, PA 15642. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com.
April 09, 2025 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Margaret "Margee" Busch-Hause, age 63 of West Newton, formerly of Michigan, passed away on April 8, 2025. She was born on September 5, 1961, in McKeesport, a daughter of David Busch and the late Margaret E. Busch. Margee was a graduate of Gull Lake High School in Michigan in the class of 1979, and she was employed as an aid on a special-needs school bus. Margee loved animals, especially horses, dogs, and cats. In her free time, she always looked forward to traveling. In addition to her father, Margee is survived by one brother David Busch, one sister Carole Busch-Cappetta (and Husband Frank), one niece Danielle Busch, and one nephew Dakota Busch. A celebration of life service will be held at Living Evidence Church, 6125 Center Avenue, New Stanton, PA, 15672 on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at 11AM. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be given in Margee's name to Living Evidence Church in New Stanton, or an animal charity of your choice. James W. Shirley Funeral Home in charge of arrangements, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
April 09, 2025 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Helen M. Matava, 92, of North Huntingdon now residing at Redstone, North Huntingdon passed away on Tuesday, April 8, 2025. She was born on July 30, 1932 in Braddock, PA, a daughter of the late Joseph and Elizabeth Hreha Gelumbus. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 71 years, Edward "Bub" Matava, a sister, Mary Elizabeth Regan and a son-in-law Christopher McHugh. She was a member of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church of North Huntingdon. Helen enjoyed cooking, cleaning, and reading. She was a member of the Markvue Manor Women's Club and a graduate of Scott High School. She is survived by 3 daughters, Linda McCandless (Gary), of North Huntingdon, Kathy McHugh, of North Huntingdon and Lori Hood (Tom), of North Huntingdon; a sister Elaine Conroy, seven grandchildren, Gary (Candace) , Jeffrey (Jamie), and Ryan McCandless (Meghan), Erin McHugh, Andrew McHugh, Kayla Herring (Rob) and Elizabeth Leber, (Brandon), 11 great-grandchildren;, Tyler, Dylan, Kyra, Lyla, Matava, Michael, Aubrey, Maxton, Vivian, Hadley and Allie, and several nieces and nephews. There will be no visitation. A funeral Mass will be held Friday at 10 AM at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church, Leger Road, North Huntingdon. Please go directly to the church. James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon in charge of arrangements. Interment will follow in Immaculate Conception Cemetery, North Huntingdon. For online condolences, please visit www.shirleyfuneralhome.com. Memorials may be made to the Redstone Benevolent Fund, North Huntingdon, or St. Jude Children's Hospital.
April 09, 2025 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
“In each of our lives, there comes a time when the earthly body can no longer hold the spirit within.”
Ralph Vincent Scaramuzzi, 79, of Irwin, died peacefully at home surrounded by his family on April 7, 2025. He is survived by his wife of nearly 43 years, Debora (Nash) Scaramuzzi, his son, Mark Scaramuzzi and daughter-in-law, Kate Malongowski, of Shaler Township, and his soon-to-be-born grandson. He is also survived by his brother, Carmen “Nucci” Scaramuzzo and sister-in-law, Diane, of North Huntingdon; his sister-in-law, Marcia (Sauers) Scaramuzzi, of Murrysville; and numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his brother, Joseph Scaramuzzi. Ralph was born on July 10, 1945, in Braddock, to the late Alex Scaramuzzi and Anna (Margiotti) Scaramuzzi. He graduated from Rankin High School and the Art Institute of Pittsburgh and worked in advertising sales at the Pennysaver, the Tribune-Review and the Pittsburgh Press over the years. His long career in newspapers began as a delivery boy for the Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph. After retirement, he enjoyed working as a part-time host at Applebee's. His work reflected a combination of things he loved in life: his passion for drawing and his love of people, including the gift of gab. Ralph always a story and a joke ready, and he loved calling family and friends to check on them. Ralph also had a passion for history, art, music, food and his faith. In his later years, he enjoyed going to lunch and museums with his close friend, Jim Busch. Ralph was also a U.S. Navy veteran who served on the USS Essex during the Vietnam War. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Ralph’s name to the Hillman Cancer Center or cancer research. The family would also like to thank Dr. Robert Gerger for his years of care, and to UPMC Family Hospice, for all of their care and kindness. At his request, there will be no viewing. A celebration of life for family and friends will be held at a later date. Reach out to Mark for further details. Arrangements by James W. Shirley Funeral Home. For online condolences, please visit www.shirleyfuneralhome.com.
April 07, 2025 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Patty Lynn Stuchel, age 74 of Irwin died April 6, 2025, at Canterbury Place. She was born July 28, 1950, in McKeesport, a daughter of the late Carl and Julia Marie McCoy Stuchel. Patty was a member of the Calvin Presbyterian Church. Prior to her retirement, she was employed as a physical therapist by Excela Home Health Care. She was a graduate of Norwin, class of 1968, she later graduated from Penn State in 1972 with a B.S. degree in Parks and Recreation then continued on to receive her Master's Degree from Arcadia University in physical therapy. Patty's first job was working with her dad and family on their Christmas tree farm near Shawnee State Park, she later worked for Wilkes-Barre Recreation Dept, Penns Woods Girl Scout Council, Wilkes-Barre, Mercy Hospital, Wilkes Barre, Cincinnati VA Medical Center and Excela Home Health Care. She was active in her church, loved backpacking, canoeing, cross country-skiing. She enjoyed going with friends to high school and CLO musicals, concerts, especially summer outdoor ones. She is survived by two sisters, Peggy (Don) Cunningham, Connie (Michael) Noel, nephews and nieces, Jonathan (Tarah) Noel, Matthew (Kristin)Noel, Jennifer (William) Henderson, Daniel (Hannah) Noel, 20 great nephews and nieces 3 great great nephews and nieces and numerous cousins. Friends will be received at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon on Thursday from 2-4, 6-8 p.m. A funeral service will be held on Friday at 11 a.m. in the funeral home chapel. Interment will be private in Mt. Vernon Cemetery. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
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April 01, 2025 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Bessie Dalessandro, age 89 of North Huntingdon died March 31, 2025 at her home surrounded by her family. She was born February 27, 1936 in Shafton, a daughter of the late John and Cora Proudfit Rain. Bessie modeled giving, patience and love. She took care of her siblings, her husband and her mother. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Louis P. in 2008, two brothers, Alex and John Rain, and her sister, Ruth Ann Panaia. She is survived by two sons, Louis and Vincent, her daughter Denise Gunnell, two brothers, Joseph and Donald Rain, two sisters, Cora Naugle and Kathy Sartori, numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. There will be no public visitation. Memorials may be made to the Altheimer's Foundation. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com.
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March 28, 2025 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Grace Lea Mastro, 89, of North Huntingdon, died March 28, 2025, at her home. Born December 13, 1935, in McKeesport, she was a daughter of the late E. Lester and Mary Frances (Moritz) Dawson. It is said that, "What we are speaks louder than what we say." Grace gave meaning to this by her leadership through example. Grace was a nurse for the Air Force Reserves on active duty from 1960-66 and then resigned her commission in 1972. She was a retired registered nurse, spending 30 years with the Visiting Nurse Association of Irwin and Jeannette. As a member of the Norwin Lioness and the Lion Club since 1985, she served as president, treasurer and in many other capacities. Her nursing experience carried over into her Lion Club activities doing blood work and drives for Lions Care-Van from 1979-88 and then as coordinator for St Agnes blood drives. She served as parish nurse for the Ministry of Care from 1982-21. Grace was a volunteer with the food bank program since 1982, Meals on Wheels since 1996. She also volunteered with Radio Information Service (RIS), since 1996, this station broadcasts to the blind. Grace was also active in Markvue Manor Women's Club for 30 years and assisted in Habitat for Humanity fundraising projects. She was a beacon for dedicated humanitarian service. Grace is survived by her husband of 56 years, Anthony Mastro and many nieces and nephews. Preceding her in death were her sister, Carolyn Dawson Fuller (2005) and brother David Dawson (2023). Thank you to UPMC Hospice program especially, nurses Jen, Sonja, and Kelly. They provided the best of services. Visitation will be held on Thursday, April 3, from 4-6 PM at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Agnes Church on Friday, April 4, at 10 AM. Interment will follow at Penn Lincoln Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Agnes Church or the Norwin Area Meals on Wheels. www.shirleyfuneralhom.com
