November 18, 2022 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Luke Stankovich, 84, of North Huntingdon, passed away Friday, November 18, 2022 at Kane Regional Nursing Center, Pittsburgh, PA. He was born February 6, 1938 in Duquesne, a son of the late Luke and Mara (Vignejvich) Stankovich. Prior to his retirement, Luke was a civil engineer. He was a veteran of the US Air Force and a member of St. Sava Serbian Orthodox Church, McKeesport. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, George; sisters, Melva, Dolores and Bess. He is survived by his sister, Nellie Jones; and nieces and nephews. There will be no visitation. Arrangements made by the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon, PA 15642. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
November 18, 2022 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Michael A. Schmidt, 60, of North Huntingdon, passed away Thursday, November 17, 2022 at his home surrounded by family and friends. He was born April 23, 1962 in McKeesport, a son of the late Elmer and Margaret (Swanson) Ference and was adopted and raised by the late Henry and Helen (Ference) Schmidt. Michael was a retired Lt. Colonel of the US Air Force and throughout his life he was successful in the banking industry. He was a graduate of McKeesport High School Class of 1980 and earned a bachelor’s degree in business from Robert Morris University. He was a member of Immaculate Conception Church, Irwin, a Pittsburgh sports enthusiast and enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Robert Ference; and sister, Dolores Swauger. He is survived by his loving wife of 37 years, Virginia "Ginger" (Walsh) Schmidt; sons, Michael and his wife, Lisa; Steven and his fiance, Miranda; sister, Barbara (Gene) Chrise; grandchildren, Landon, Tenley and Brooks; and numerous nieces and nephews. Friends will be received from 6-8 p.m. Sunday, and 2-4 & 6-8 p.m. Monday at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon, PA 15642. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday at 9:30 a.m. in Immaculate Conception Church, Irwin. Interment to follow in Mt. Vernon Cemetery, McKeesport. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project or ALS Association. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
November 17, 2022 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Lois Elaine McGivern of New Kensington, formerly of North Huntingdon, passed away Wednesday, November 16, 2022. She was born on July 4, 1964 in Pittsburgh, PA. She was a daughter of the late Joseph W. Bridges and Audrey Louise (Waldron) Bridges. Lois was a 1982 graduate of Norwin Sr. High School and worked in the mortgage industry for several years. She enjoyed spending summers in Ohiopyle, celebrating every Fourth of July with friends and fireworks and being with her adored cat, Nina. She is preceded in death by her sister, Carol L. Magnus, brother, John Bridges, and her daughter Elena’s father, Edward Koncerak. She is survived by her two daughters, Elena Bridges and Briana McGivern; loving grandchildren, Oliver, Audrey and Gwendolyn; brothers, Joseph and Jim; partner, Mark Johnson; and former husband, Jim McGivern. Friends will be received from 2-4 & 6-8 p.m. on Saturday at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon, PA 15642. A funeral service will take place on Sunday at 1 p.m. in the funeral home chapel. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
November 12, 2022 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Karen J. Cardiff, 70, of North Huntingdon, peacefully met her Lord and Savior, Friday, November 11, 2022, at home with her family. Karen was the high school sweetheart and loving wife of 53 years to Ken J. Cardiff. Born in Monessen, PA she was the daughter of the late Theodore and Helen (Szewczyk) Krausa. Prior to retirement she was employed at Express Scripts where she took pride in her work and treasured her close friends, many of whom she loved even into her last days. Karen had many passions in her life, among them was her love to cook. She never missed the chance to feed the company she hosted particularly on holidays, and you would never leave her home without taking something with you. Taking those leftovers came at a price however, and you would most certainly never forget about that Tupperware container. In addition to her love of being a homemaker, her biggest passion in life was her commitment to serve Jesus Christ. Karen was a former member of Faith Bible and Grace Baptist churches and a current member of Heritage Baptist Church in Jeanette. She is undoubtedly responsible for pointing many souls to the Lord through her evangelism over the years. She never passed up an opportunity to share the gift of salvation with others and never missed a chance to sit down on the living room couch with the friends of her children to tell them about Jesus. Through her many years in the church, she served in various youth ministries and loved to sing praise as a member of the choir. Second only to her commitment to God, was her commitment to family. What brought Karen “Nana” the most joy was being a Mom to her 5 children and a Nana to 16 grandchildren.
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November 10, 2022 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Randal J. Ference, 67 of North Huntingdon, passed away Thursday, November 10, 2022 at Forbes Regional Hospital, Monroeville. He was born March 20, 1955 in McKeesport, a son of Gerald Ference and the late Geraldine (Kremp) Ference. Prior to his retirement, Randy was a crane operator for US Steel. He was a graduate of Norwin Sr. High School Class of ’73 and a member of St. Agnes Parish. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, playing baseball and was an avid Steelers fan. He was preceded in death by his brother, Dean. He is survived by his wife, Beverly (Whitehead) Ference; sons, Jeffrey and his wife, Stephanie, Randal Jr.; daughter, Kelly Cucunato and her husband, Andrew; brother, Timothy Ference and his wife, Sue; sister, Linda Pavolvic and her husband, Richard; sister-in-law, Susan Ference; grandchildren, Vincent, Joseph, Emma, Colton and Connor; numerous nieces and nephews; and his canine companions, Bailey and Mia. Friends will be received from 2-4 & 6-8 p.m. on Sunday at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon, PA 15642. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday at 10 a.m. in St. Agnes Church. Interment will follow in Coulter Cemetery. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
November 09, 2022 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
John O. Geiger, 80, of Darragh, passed away Tuesday, November 8, 2022 at his home. He was born December 16, 1941 in Greensburg, a son of the late Homer and Helen (Semanco) Geiger. Prior to his retirement, John was the owner and operator of Route 30 Sunoco in North Huntingdon and past president of the Norwin Rotary. He enjoyed working on cars, doing yardwork and loved his canine companion, Chico. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Carol Geiger; brothers, Walter P. "Herk", Burrell, Homer, Donald, Kenneth (Jim), David Sr. and Larry. He is survived by his sons, John Michael Geiger, Steve Geiger and his wife, Kelly, Ben Geiger, and his wife, Heather and Jayme Geiger; daughter, Heather Stanoszek and her husband, Mark; brother, Robert Geiger; and sister, Maryanne Carpenter. Services are private. Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society in memory of John. Arrangements made by the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon, PA 15642. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
November 09, 2022 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Richard E. Peschock, 86, of North Huntingdon, passed away Tuesday, November 8, 2022. He was born March 22, 1936 in Johnstown, son of the late Michael and Mary (Sokolovich) Peschock. Preceded in death by brothers, Robert and Ronald; grandparents, John and Mary (Kovach) Sokolovich. Rich was a 1954 graduate of Johnstown Catholic High School and attended Tri State College. He served in the US Naval Reserves, managed youth baseball and softball teams, served as sports commissioner, treasurer and president of the North Huntingdon Police Athletic League. Rich was employed by many engineering firms in and around the Pittsburgh area. He is survived by his wife, of 56 years, Rita (Hynes) Peschock; children and spouses, Christine Schnider, Anita Powell, Michael and Pam Peschock and Bobbi Peschock; grandchildren Gillian (Mike) Mannebach, Brandi, Austin, Ben, Tim, Mikhayla, Jonathan and great-grandchild Emery; sister-in-law Betty Peschock of Hollidaysburg, PA; brother Robert (Lee) Gaylog of Mahopac, NY; and many nieces and nephews. Mass will be celebrated at a date and time to be announced. Memorial contributions may be made to a charity of your choice. Arrangements made by the James W. Shirley Funeral Home 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon, PA 15642. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
November 06, 2022 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Bernard L. Walkowiak, age 77 of Indiana, Pa died November 5, 2022 at the Indiana Regional Hospital. He was born September 19, 1945 in Pittsburgh, Pa., a son of the late Bernard and Katherine Beck Walkowiak. Bernard was retired from the U.S. Air Force. He enjoyed fishing, playing cards and bingo, He was known as a storyteller and enjoyed meeting his friends for coffee. He was an officer for the Disabled American Veterans and the NOTR Auxiliary Group. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Edward, a sister Katherine and a granddaughter Amber. He is survived by his beloved wife, Andrea Babyak Walkowiak, two daughters, Rianna Wallace and Jennifer Walkowiak, two sons, Bryan and Stefan, two step-daughters, Gina Groff (Michael), Rebecca Mackey (Steve), a brother Robert (Holly), a sister Pauline Korshiak, 7 grandchildren, Jeff , Drew, Dylan, Joey, Drake, Kaitlyn and Lexi, 3 great grandchildren. Friends will be received at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon on Thursday from 11-2 p.m. at which time a service will be held at 2 p.m. in the funeral home chapel followed by interment in Penn Lincoln Memorial Park. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com.
November 04, 2022 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Cynthia Ann Poppa Rothwell, 63, of Irwin, passed away Thursday, November 3, 2022 at UPMC East, Monroeville. She was born October 5, 1959 in Wilkinsburg, a daughter of Donna (McGlashen) Mashoney and the late Robert Mashoney. Cynthia was a graduate of Norwin Sr. High School Class of '78 and she enjoyed cooking especially Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners, crafting, bird watching, watching Hallmark movies and was an advocate for the American Cancer Society. She is survived by her daughters, Kristin (Andrew) Poppa-Rosel, Katie Poppa, Whitley Rothwell; stepson, Randy (Brittany) Rothwell; sister, Cheryl (George) McClure; brother, Robert (Karen) Mashoney; grandson, Levi Rothwell; niece and nephew, Kara (Eric) and Josh; great niece Ava; and great nephew, Max. A private memorial service will be held at a later date. Arrangements made by the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon, PA 15642. Memorials may be made to the family which will be distributed to Cindy's favorite charities. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
November 02, 2022 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Nancy M. Sipes, 82, of North Huntingdon, passed away Wednesday, November 2, 2022 at Forbes Regional Hospital. She was born April 24, 1940 in Fisher, PA, a daughter of the late Dale and Thelma (Wenner) Stewart. Nancy enjoyed spending time with her family and friends. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Ralph L. Sipes; two sisters, Linda McMaster and Jackie Cooney. She is survived by her son, David Sipes and his wife, Tricia; and grandchildren, Kolton and Kaylee. Friends will be received from 2-4 & 6-8 p.m. on Sunday at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon, PA 15642. A funeral service will be held on Monday at 10 a.m. in the funeral home. Interment to follow in Penn Lincoln Memorial Park. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
November 01, 2022 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Kenneth L. Gavron, 65, of New Castle, Delaware, formerly of McKeesport, passed away Tuesday, November 1, 2022 at Transitions Healthcare, North Huntingdon. He was born, June 22, 1957 in McKeesport, a son of the late Frank and Mary (Loder) Gavron. Prior to his retirement, Kenneth was a HVAC repairman for Christiana Hospital. He enjoyed fishing, woodworking and had a love for animals especially his two cats. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Gerald. He is survived by his brothers, Stanley Gavron and his wife, Darlene and Frank Gavron and his wife, Cathy. Services are private. Arrangements made by the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon, PA 15642, www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
November 01, 2022 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Tammy I. Harkovich, 60, of North Huntingdon, passed away Monday, October 31, 2022 at Forbes Regional Hospital. She was born January 22, 1962 in Pittsburgh, a daughter of the late Daniel and Olive (Patterson) Swackhammer. Prior to her retirement, Tammy was a waitress for Gia Visto. She was a graduate of Churchill High School and enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren and cat, Mittens. She is survived by her daughters, Sarah Harkovich and Hailey (Milo) Coddington; brothers, Daniel (Barbara), Randy (Lydia), Jeffrey (Dawn), Keith (Debbie); sister, Tracey (John) Diroll; grandchildren, Madison and Nolan; and numerous nieces and nephews. Friends will be received from 2-4 & 6-8 p.m. Thursday at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon, PA 15642. A funeral service will take place on Friday at 10 a.m. in the funeral home chapel. Interment to follow in Penn Lincoln Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the family. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
October 28, 2022 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Mary Ellen Le, 80, of North Huntingdon, passed away Thursday, October 27, 2022 at home. She was born December 21, 1941 in Duquesne, a daughter of the late Milan and Frances (Palovich) Zarak. Prior to her retirement in 1999, Mary Ellen was a Business and English teacher for Penn Trafford High School for 30 years and the middle school for eight years. She enjoyed life and deeply loved her grandchildren. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brothers, George and John Zarak. She is survived by her loving husband of 46 years, Le Quy Le; daughters, Milana Le (Darin) and Natasha Ousky (Ashley); grandchildren, T.J. and Annika. Services are private. Arrangements made by the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon, PA 15642. Donations may be made to the Autism Awareness in memory of Mary Ellen. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
October 27, 2022 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Renee R. DiBiase, age 76 of Bristol Rhode Island died Monday, October 24, 2022. She was born August 17, 1946 in Braddock, Pa., a daughter of the late Henry and Ruth Balowitz DiBiase. Renee graduated from Wilmerding Westinghouse Memorial High School Class of 1964. She received her Bachelor degree in nursing from the University of Delaware. Renee was a Vietnam Veteran having served as a registered nurse for the Navy Nurse Corps where she retired as a commander. She enjoyed sailing and kayaking. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by sister Toni Dempsey, her nephew, Blaine Messick. She is survived by her longtime friend, Kay Hess, a brother, Richard DiBiase (Kim), sister Jeanne Messick (Blaine). Friends will be received at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike on Monday, Nov 7 from 10-11 A.M. at which time a service will be held at 11a.m. in the funeral home chapel. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
October 27, 2022 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
John L. Gilliland, 84, of Arona, formerly of Panther Hollow, Oakland passed away Wednesday, October 26, 2022 at home. He was born December 5, 1937 in Oakland, Pa. Prior to his retirement, John was a brakeman for Union Railroad and a veteran of the US Navy. He was a member of Bill & Rae’s Pool League in Herminie and enjoyed hunting and fishing. He was preceded in death by his brothers, Charles and Chester; and sister, Dolores. He is survived by his wife, Philomena (DeRiggi) Gilliland; son, John (Melissa) Gilliland Jr.; daughters, Michelle (Sean Byrnes) Gilliland, Mary Susan Gilliland; stepson, Neal Trovy; sister-in-law, Linda (Paul) Hawn; grandchildren, Kailey and Courtney; great-grandson, Leon; and numerous nieces and nephews. Friends will be received from 2-4 & 6-8 p.m. Friday at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon, PA . A blessing service will take place on Saturday at 10 a.m. in the funeral home chapel. Interment to follow in Calvary Catholic Cemetery, Pittsburgh, PA. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com.
