July 30, 2025 |
By Administrator | Posted in: William Snyder Funeral Home
Stephen L. Meyer, age 50, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, July 21, 2025. He was born March 10, 1975 in Wilkinsburg, a son of Bruce and Barbara (McCartney) Meyer. He was an active member of the Refuge Church in Manor. And a youth bible leader for countless teens over 30 years. He worked as a patent agent for over 20 years and then earned his law degree from Perdue University and practiced patent law for Kaufhold and Dix Law Office in White Oak. He was a past member of the Norwin Rotary.
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July 28, 2025 |
By Administrator | Posted in: William Snyder Funeral Home
Alice Jean Maddock, 101, a longtime resident of East McKeesport, died Sunday, July 20, 2025. She was born October 22, 1923, in East McKeesport, the daughter of the late Robert Leslie and Ethel Edna (Simpson) Gillis. Jean, as she was known, graduated as an honor student from East McKeesport High School and shortly thereafter was employed at the Westinghouse Air Brake plant in Wilmerding. There she met the love of her life, Samuel A. “Sam” Maddock. In November 1942 they were joined in a marriage they enjoyed until his death in 2002. Their union produced three sons: Donald G. “Don” (Andrea) of Ypsilanti, Michigan, John S. “Jack” Maddock (Debbie) of Jefferson Hills, and Gary R. Maddock (Carol) of Roscoe, Illinois.
The newlyweds were separated shortly after their wedding by Sam’s service with the U.S. Army in the European Theater, and while he was away Jean attended night classes at the Pittsburgh Art Institute. There she excelled and was recruited as a fashion illustrator by the Pittsburgh Sun-Telegraph newspaper. She worked there until Sam’s return at the end of the war. Jean then embarked on her lifetime career as homemaker and, eventually, stay-at-home mom.
After a short sojourn in the Gillis family home, the couple purchased a house of their own in the Green Valley neighborhood of North Versailles Township. They lived there until 1952 and then moved to a new home in East McKeesport. There they would spend the rest of their lives.
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July 28, 2025 |
By Administrator | Posted in: William Snyder Funeral Home
Robert “Bobby” A. Starr, age 71, of North Huntingdon, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, July 21, 2025. He was born April 27, 1954 in East Liverpool, Ohio, a son of the late William and Lois (Cain) Starr. He was a proud Navy veteran that went on to work at a number of companies and spent over 15 years as a custodian for the Norwin Schools. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his sisters Helen Starr and Carol Ann Starr. He is survived by his wife of over 45 years Catherine (Sage) Starr; daughters Rachel Starr of North Huntingdon and Jessica Starr of White Oak; granddaughters Cheyenne Starr and June Paige Hyatt; and brothers James (Janet) Starr of Imperial and William Starr of Burgettstown. Friends and family will be received on Sunday, July 27th from noon till time of blessing at 4 p.m. at the William Snyder Funeral Home, 521 Main Street, Irwin, 724-863-1200. Private interment will be at Penn Lincoln Memorial Park in North Huntingdon Township. For online condolences please visit www.snyderfuneralservices.com.
To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Robert "Bobby" A. Starr please visit our Sympathy Store.
July 28, 2025 |
By Administrator | Posted in: William Snyder Funeral Home
Carole “Carlee” L. (Steffen) Cheney, age 90, of McKeesport, passed away Tuesday, July 22, 2025. She was born December 16, 1934 in Pittsburgh, a daughter of the late Glenn and Reba (Wilson) Steffen. She was a female barber for over 50 years and owned her own barber shops in California and Pennsylvania. In addition to barbering, Carlee, was ordained as a minister in 1973. Her love of Jesus led her to write many songs and a book, titled, “YOU! Just Do It!”. Passion for cutting hair and abounding faithfulness to God stayed with her throughout her entire life. Her love shined brightly through her beautiful smile and sweet, caring ways touching everyone she met. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her sister Grace McGonigle.
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July 20, 2025 |
By Administrator | Posted in: William Snyder Funeral Home
Patricia A. “Pat” (Lippert) Collier, 83, of North Huntingdon, passed away Monday July 14, 2025. She was born March 17, 1942 in McKeesport, a daughter of the late Leonard and Mabel (Simpson) Lippert. Pat was a member of First Presbyterian Church, Irwin. She was a Steeler’s Fan, enjoyed spending time with her son and granddaughter and always looked forward to family gatherings. The family would like to give special thanks to North Huntingdon EMS/Rescue for their care and compassion during their difficult time. Pat is survived by her husband of over 59 years Richard A. Collier, her son Richard L. Collier of Greensburg, her granddaughter Briana Collier; and her sister Carol Andrews of South Carolina. Friends and family will be received from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday at the William Snyder Funeral Home, Inc., 521 Main Street, Irwin, 724-863-1200. A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Friday in the funeral home. Interment will follow in Brush Creek Cemetery. Those wishing can make a donation to their local food bank in memory of Pat. For online condolences please visit www.snyderfuneralservices.com.
To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Patricia A. "Pat" Collier please visit our Sympathy Store.
July 06, 2025 |
By Administrator | Posted in: William Snyder Funeral Home
Hope (Phillips) Gaebel, age 74, of North Huntingdon, passed away on Wednesday, July 2, 2025. Born on January 15, 1951, in Braddock, she was the daughter of the late Leonard and Charlene (Baldwin) Phillips.
Hope was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 51 years, Thomas J. Gaebel, and her brother Chris Phillips.
Hope’s greatest joy in life was her family, especially her grandchildren, whom she absolutely adored. She cherished every moment spent with them, whether she was doing crafts, sharing laughs, or leading their annual tie-dye and ginger bread house traditions. Hope was the heart of her home—a loving “drill sergeant” who kept Tom, Owen, and Kurt in line with her signature mix of yelling, firmness, and love.
She loved spending time with her friends—lunch outings, gym visits, and long chats were some of her favorite pastimes. A Disney fan and a lifelong lover of ice cream, she never passed up a chance to enjoy a chocolate/vanilla twist cone on her way home from the family’s Dairy Queen store.
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June 24, 2025 |
By Administrator | Posted in: William Snyder Funeral Home
Aida Luz Zayas Ortiz, age 78, of East McKeesport passed away Sunday, June 22, 2025. She was born July 6, 1946 in Puerto Rico, a daughter of the late Fortunato Zayas and Andrea Ortiz. She was a past member of Mary Mother of God Parish in East McKeesport. Her passion was helping others in need and spending time in her garden. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her son Carlos Ortiz; and seven siblings. She is survived by her daughter Luz (Ivan) Ortiz Zayas of East McKeesport; 5 grandchildren; 2 great grandchildren; and 5 siblings. Her request was to be buried in the family section at the cemetery in Puerto Rico. A short visitation will be announced in Puerto Rico before interment. Arrangements handled by the Forgie-Snyder Funeral Home, 1032 Broadway, East McKeesport, 412-823-8083. For online condolences please visit www.snyderfuneralservices.com.
To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Aida Luz Zayas Ortiz please visit our Sympathy Store.
June 22, 2025 |
By Administrator | Posted in: William Snyder Funeral Home
Keith W. Flodine, age 66, of North Versailles, passed away Thursday, June 19, 2025. He was born October 17, 1958 in Wilkinsburg, a son of the late Kenneth N. and Eileen (Sprute) Flodine. He worked for over 30 years as a custodian and night security for East Allegheny School District. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his brother Kenneth Flodine. He is survived by his Sister Kim (Former husband Stephen) Chupinka of North Strabane; brother Kurt (Lisa) Flodine of North Versailles; many nieces and nephews; great nieces and nephews; and cousins. Friends and family will be received on Sunday, June 22nd from 1 p.m. till time of funeral service at 4 p.m. at the Forgie-Snyder Funeral Home, 1032 Broadway, East McKeesport, 412-823-8083. Private interment will be at Penn Lincoln Memorial Park on North Huntingdon Township. For online condolences please visit www.snyderfuneralservices.com.
To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Keith W. Flodine please visit our Sympathy Store.
June 19, 2025 |
By Administrator | Posted in: William Snyder Funeral Home
Dorothy Ann (Gida) Cortazzo, beloved wife of Joseph A. Cortazzo, died at home, Saturday, June 14, 2025. She was born January 9, 1937 in McKeesport, a daughter of the late Walter and Mary (Kustra) Gida and grew up and lived her entire life in East McKeesport. She graduated from East McKeesport High School in 1954 and married the love of her life Joseph A. Cortazzo on October 15, 1955. They remained married, in love, and inseparable for almost 70 years. Dorothy was extremely energetic throughout her entire life and in addition to being an attentive and protective mother and loving wife, she was at various times a seamstress, factory worker, waitress, landscape engineer and self-taught carpenter.
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June 11, 2025 |
By Administrator | Posted in: William Snyder Funeral Home
Ronald B. Nerger, 92, of East McKeesport, passed away peacefully at home on June 5, 2025.
Ron (RB), born in Braddock, PA, proudly served his country in the U.S. Army during the Korean War, earning two medals in recognition of his service. After returning from military service, he began his career with the railroad, and for 10 years juggled both railroad work and driving for Greyhound. Eventually, he left the railroad to drive full-time for Greyhound, where he stayed for three decades. Ron was always a character behind the wheel and was well known for keeping passengers laughing with his antics and stories. Even in retirement, he kept driving, taking on school bus routes and bringing smiles to the kids he drove.
But the most important work he ever did happened at home. Together with his wife Karlene, they opened their home to more than 100 foster children over the course of 30 years. Their home was a place of stability, safety, and love. They were the kind of foster parents who didn’t just care for kids...they changed lives.
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May 27, 2025 |
By Administrator | Posted in: William Snyder Funeral Home
Judy (Dupar) Sturdevant, age 86, of Irwin, passed away on Monday, May 19, 2025. She was born in McKeesport, a daughter of the late Alfred and Marion (Biggs) Dupar – “Meme and Pop.” To the family, Judy was the most devoted and caring wife and mom, always making time for the ones she loved. She was known fondly as “Mema” to her grandchildren and “Aunt JuJu” to her nieces and nephews. Judy loved life and shared her joy and kindness with many wonderful friends. She and dad loved to travel, especially beach vacations with the family at Outer Banks and Myrtle Beach. She had a strong faith in God and was a long-time member of West Hempfield Presbyterian Church. She loved to golf in the “Loosey-Goosey” women’s golf league at the Madison Club. Judy had a love of animals and always had hugs and treats for her “grand dogs” Casey, Flurry, Ranger and Maggie. She worked for over 30 years as a stenographer and owned her own business, SmartCounsel Court Reporters. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her sister Nancy Harter. She is survived by her loving husband of over 67 years William “Bill” Sturdevant; children Susan (Michael) Gogol of Irwin, Craig Sturdevant of Godwin, North Carolina and Shelley (Mark) Verdun of Irwin; grandchildren Stephen (Wendy) Gogol, David (Laurie) Gogol, Cory Sturdevant and Julia (David) Haak; and great grandchildren Benson and Archer Gogol and Emma and Elly Sturdevant; and many close nieces and nephews. Friends and family are invited to join Judy’s Celebration of Life at the West Hempfield Presbyterian Church on Friday, May 30th from 3 p.m. till time of memorial service at 6 p.m. Her dear friend, the Reverend Peggy Shannon will be officiating. After the service, all are welcome to share food and fellowship in the church hall. Arrangements are being handled by the William Snyder Funeral Home, 521 Main Street, Irwin, 724-863-1200. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the West Hempfield Presbyterian Church, 8 West Hempfield Drive, Irwin, PA 15642. For online condolences please visit www.snyderfuneralservices.com.
To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Judy (Dupar) Sturdevant please visit our Sympathy Store.
May 27, 2025 |
By Administrator | Posted in: William Snyder Funeral Home
Eleanor Lois Coates Brea, age 99 of North Versailles, Pa. passed away peacefully at UPMC East on Sunday, May 25, 2025. Eleanor was born in McKeesport, Pa. on July 19, 1925, the daughter of the late William James Coates and Belle Painter Lewis Coates. She would have celebrated her 100th birthday this July and was presently a resident of Seneca Manor Assisted Living in Verona, Pa. Eleanor was a graduate of McKeesport Senior High School and The Pittsburgh Institute of Aeronautics. Upon graduation she was employed by the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad as an executive secretary. She was preceded in death by her husband of 50 years, Edgar David Brea and sisters Hazel Coates, Evelyn Prescott, and Corrine Geideman. After her marriage, Eleanor became a full-time homemaker, wife, and mother until 1969 when she was employed part-time by the Star Bakery of McKeesport, working in the satellite store in East McKeesport. She loved to bake, cook, and was a brilliant seamstress. Eleanor was a devoted member of the East McKeesport United Methodist Church where she was a member of several women's groups, the kitchen committee, taught Sunday School, and along with her husband, Ed, headed the junior high MYF youth group. She later became a member of the First Evangelical Free Church of McKeesport where she was a member of Senior Achievers. She loved square dancing. Eleanor and her husband Ed were members of the Circle 8 Square Dance Club of North Versailles, and the Mod Quads in Monroeville. Eleanor is survived by her daughter Cheryl (Rick) King of North Versailles, her daughter Cynthia (John) Toth of Sharpsville, Pa., grandchildren Ashley (Graham) King-McCarty of Astoria, NY, Adam (Meighan) King of Lower Burrell, Allyson King of Oakmont, Colin Ward of Hermitage, Corey Ward of Hermitage, 3 great-grandchildren, Phineas McCarty, Emmett and Lucas King, and several nieces and nephews. Friends will be received from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at the Forgie-Snyder Funeral Home, 1032 Broadway, East McKeesport. A funeral service will be held Thursday at 2 p.m. in First Evangelical Free Church, 4001 University Dr., McKeesport, Pa. 15132. Those attending the funeral please go directly to the church. Interment will follow in Penn Lincoln Memorial Park. For online condolences please visit www.snyderfuneralservices.com.
To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Eleanor Lois (Coates) Brea please visit our Sympathy Store.
May 08, 2025 |
By Administrator | Posted in: William Snyder Funeral Home
Jon A. Simpson, 73, of North Huntingdon, passed away Saturday, May 3, 2025. He was born December 9, 1951 in McKeesport, the son of the late John and Erna (Zauper) Simpson. Jon was a retired mortgage banker. He enjoyed classic cars and anything with a motor. He is survived by his wife of 52 years Sue (Grimm) Simpson; his children Heather (Craig) Wilmotte and Brett A. (Alesha) Simpson; and his grandchildren Jocelyn, Tegan, Jaxson, and Baylor. He is also survived by sons and daughters of the heart: Joe and Jonette, Harry and Becky, Brian and Kristen, and Anthony and Jennifer. Friends will be received from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, May 6, at the William Snyder Funeral Home, 521 Main Street, Irwin. A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, May 7 in the funeral home with interment following in Union Cemetery. For online condolences please visit www.snyderfuneralservices.com.
To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Jon A. Simpson please visit our Sympathy Store.
May 08, 2025 |
By Administrator | Posted in: William Snyder Funeral Home
Margaret Anna “Peggy" Wingrove, 66 of North Huntingdon, passed away Saturday, May 3, 2025. She was born September 6, 1958 in Turtle Creek, a daughter of Thomas A. and Alva (Randolph) Solomon. She worked at Trafford Middle School as a supervisor in the cafeteria. Peggy loved the children and coworkers in her school community. She was a hardworking, good person who had a way of making everyone feel special. She enjoyed camping trips to Keystone State Park, crafting, sewing, diamond art, had a good sense of humor, and would frequently dress up for school in outfits that would express her personality. Peggy was a loving mother and grandmother, who was always on the move and she was willing to help anyone that needed it.
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May 04, 2025 |
By Administrator | Posted in: William Snyder Funeral Home
Sandra L. (Hodder) Barton, 82, of Irwin, passed away Monday April 28, 2025. She was born January 14, 1943 in McKeesport, a daughter of the late Ralph and Sarah Jane (Watson) Hodder, in addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her husband Dennis M. Barton. She was a retired seamstress, a loving mother and grandmother; and also enjoyed spending time with Teia the family dog.
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