A free service provided by your local funeral professionals and The Tube City Almanac, your independent, non-profit news source.

McKeesport Area News from Tube City Almanac


Advertising

Finney Funeral Home CREMATION Simple Direct Dignified  1-800-448-9899

This service is supported by donations and advertising. To advertise here, call (412) 614-9659 or email McKeesportObituaries@gmail.com.


Barbara Wisniewski

January 08, 2023 |

By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home

Barbara Wisniewski, 80, of North Huntingdon, passed away Sunday, January 8, 2023 at UPMC Mercy Hospital. She was born January 2, 1943 in Braddock, a daughter of the late Thomas and Rita (Voegtle) Everett. Prior to her retirement, Barbara was a medical secretary, a member of St. Agnes Parish where she sang in the choir and the Cereal Heights Ladies Club. She enjoyed visiting casinos, bowling, loved to cook, watching soap operas and spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, John D. Wisniewski, and sisters, Patricia Pcolar and Jacqueline Topinka. She is survived by her sons, David and John; daughter, Theresa; grandchildren, Emily, John and Abby; great-grandson, Jack; brothers, Thomas (Diane) Everett and Jerry Everett; sister, Betty (Richard) Roseborough; brother-in-law, Ron Topinka; and numerous nieces and nephews.

 
Read More


Daniel R. Ritter Jr.

January 08, 2023 |

By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home

Daniel R. Ritter Jr.,  85, of North Huntingdon, passed away Saturday, January 7, 2023 at Redstone Highlands, N. Huntingdon.  He was born October 19, 1937 in Pittsburgh, a son of the late Daniel and Margaret (Heskin) Ritter.  Prior to his retirement, Daniel was the owner of the West Mifflin Shop 'n Save and was a veteran of the US Army.  He was a member of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church and enjoyed golfing, hunting, fishing and socializing with his longtime friends.  In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Anne DeClever.  He is survived by his loving wife, Mary “Pat” (Sherman) Ritter; son, Daniel T. Ritter; daughters, Kathleen Carlon and her husband, Tim, Patricia Kuster and her husband, Bill, Carol Duffy and her husband, Bob, Barbara Algeri and her husband, Ron; 14 grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

 
Read More


Vincent P. Tirpak

January 07, 2023 |

By Elmer L Herman Funeral Home | Posted in: Elmer L. Herman Funeral Home

 Vincent P. Tirpak, age 92, of McKeesport on Wednesday, January 4, 2023.

He was a retired Lieutenant of the City of McKeesport Police Department with 42 years of service and the McKeesport Housing Authority.

A US Army Korean War veteran and member of the Fraternal Order of Police.

Vince was a member and usher of the former Holy Trinity Church and then became a member and usher of Mary, Mother of God Parish, St. Patrick Church.

 

Husband of 62 years married to Cecile Lenhart Tirpak, father of Vince Little-Tirpak (Richard) and Christine Potocki (Timothy); 5 Grandchildren and 8 Great Grandchildren; Brother of Bernard Tirpak; nieces and nephews. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, January 11, 2023 at 12 p.m. in the  Mary, Mother of God Parish, St. Patrick Church. Family and friends are asked to please meet at church. In lieu of flowers please make a donation to helping children: St Jude Children Research Hospital or the Shriners Hospitals for Children. The new location-Elmer L. Herman Funeral Home (412) 521-2768 is honored and privileged to serve the family during this time of need.Please add a story to support the family or view condolences and photos. With warmest regards, John N. Bauer and the Staff of the new-Elmer L Herman Funeral Home

 

"Where Every Life is Cherished & Every Family is Treasured"

 
Read More


Helen M. Burkhardt

January 06, 2023 |

By Willig Funeral Home | Posted in: Willig Funeral Home & Crematory

Helen M. Burkhardt, age 91, of Port Vue, died on January 5, 2023, at St. Clair Hospital.  Born February 18, 1931,  in Warren, PA. She was the daughter of the late Robert and Sarah (Bowser) Best and wife of the late Edward A. Kiesell and Raymond Burkhardt.  Helen worked for Stouffer's Restaurant, Eat'n Park, Rendulic Meat Packing in her early years and as a caregiver later in life.  She and her husband Ray ran Kiesell Soup Kitchen and Chapel in McKeesport for over 35 years.  Helen would feed the homeless, have Christmas parties, pass out clothing and teach the Word of God. Serving the underprivileged held a special place in her heart, and her selflessness and kindness were a true example to all who knew her.  Above all, Helen was a Woman of God and, as a minister, was known as Sister Helen.

 
Read More


Mark Alan Swomley

January 06, 2023 |

By Strifflers Family Funeral Homes | Posted in: Strifflers Family Funeral Homes

Mark Alan Swomley, age 51, of McKeesport, died on Friday, January 6, 2023. He was born in McKeesport on May 11, 1971 and is the son of the late Thomas J. and Veronica “Tootsie” Bozga Swomley. Mark was an executive chef for several restaurants in the area including, Tillies and the former Carlton. He enjoyed going on camping trips, watching the steelers, collecting various guns, and hanging out with friends at the 11th Ward Club in McKeesport. He was also a member of the NRA, the Pitcairn Monroeville Sportsmen’s Club, and the White Oak American Legion, General Smedley D. Butler Post 701.

 
Read More


Sally Ann Williams

January 06, 2023 |

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

Sally Ann (Popp) Williams, age 84 of Liberty Borough, went to be with her Lord on Friday, December 30, 2022 at Kane Community Living Center, McKeesport.  Born April 27, 1938 in McKeesport, she was a daughter of the late Paul and Ida (Tolner) Popp. She was a member of Liberty Borough Veterans Association and an avid animal lover. She contributed to many non-profit organizations that were near and dear to her heart and her kindness will be missed. Sally will be deeply missed by her family and friends. She was preceded in death by her husband, the late Charles R. (Chick) Williams, her longtime companion Jerry Olack, son Terry Williams, brother Patrick "Sonny" Popp, and sister Gloria Knapp.  Sally is survived by her daughter Laurie Lynn Williams-Wood of Yorktown; grandchildren Brianna Morris of West Point, VA, Brandon Wood of Yorktown, VA, and Lacey Cowley of Virginia Beach, VA; five great-granddaughters; step-daughters Shelley Supinsky of White Oak and Cindy Olack of Liberty Boro; sister Candy (William) Boyle of O'Fallon, MO; 5 nieces and 2 nephews; and also multiple great nieces and nephews.

 
Read More


Florence L. Ramsey

January 06, 2023 |

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

Florence L. Ramsey, age 96 of Clairton, passed away at home on Thursday, January 5, 2023.  Born September 17, 1926 in McKeesport, she was a daughter of the late Charles and Mary (Reynolds) Coughenour.  Florence was preceded in death by her husband Joseph E. Ramsey, Jr., who passed away July 1, 2018, her daughter Diana Sickley, her son Curtis (Melanie) Ramsey, and her brothers Charles and Thomas Coughenour.  She is survived by her daughter Mary Ann Martin of Clairton; her sons David (Kim) Ramsey of Jefferson Hills and Craig (Connie) Ramsey of Elizabeth; her grandchildren Richard (Tracy) Lindsey, Christina Martin, Jason (Kathy) Ramsey, Joshua (Chalee) Ramsey, Jared (Sinthana) Ramsey, Erin (Sam) Nunnery, Jessica (Nick) Chiavetta, and Todd Ramsey; her numerous great-grandchildren; her great-great-grandchildren; and also nieces and nephews.  Florence was also a member of Pine Run United Methodist Church, the Wilson Civic Association, and the Wilson AARP. 

 
Read More


Sharon L. Kelly

January 06, 2023 |

By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home

Sharon L. Kelly, 76, of Greensburg formerly of North Huntingdon,  passed away Thursday, January 5, 2023 at her home.  She was born January 8, 1946 in Greensburg, a daughter of the late Alexander and Evelyn M. (Woll) Brown.  Prior to her retirement, Sharon was a lab tech for Columbia Hospital and later the Forbes Health System with 40 years of service.  After retirement she volunteered for the Vietnam Veterans of Westmoreland County, Christian Layman, Greensburg VFW and the YWCA Thrift Store.  She was a graduate of Hempfield Area H.S and Carnegie Tech, Cleveland, Ohio.  In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, David W. Kelly, brother, Alexander C. and sister, Helen.  She is survived by her son, Shaun; brothers, William, Kevin, Robert, James; sisters, Colen, Evelynn, Darlene and Karen; and numerous nieces and nephews.  Family and friends will be received from 10-11 a.m. on Monday at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike,  North Huntingdon, PA  15642.  Interment to follow in Brush Creek Cemetery.  Memorials may be made to the Vietnam Veterans of Westmoreland County, 201 Law and Finance Building, 35 W Pittsburgh Street, Greensburg, PA  15601.   www.shirleyfuneralhome.com

 


Kenneth L. Ferree

January 06, 2023 |

By Willig Funeral Home | Posted in: Willig Funeral Home & Crematory

Kenneth L. Ferree, age 56, of McKeesport, died on January 3, 2023.  Born March 19, 1966, in McKeesport, he was the son of the late Lawrence and LaVerne (Harff) Ferree and the husband of Julie (Weakland) Ferree for over 25 years.
Ken was a retired, self-employed general contractor.  He was a member and President of the McKeesport Sportsmen's Association.  Ken enjoyed riding his Harley Davidson, caring for his fleet of cars, and spending time at his Mountain Pines Campground of Champion, PA.  His greatest joy was telling a joke and sharing a laugh with family and friends.

 
Read More


William E. Lessman, Jr.

January 05, 2023 |

By Hunter Funeral Home | Posted in: Hunter Funeral Home

William E. Lessman, Jr., 66, of Acme, died Wednesday, January 4, 2023 at Westmoreland Hospital, Greensburg, PA.  Born in Mount Pleasant, July 21, 1956, he was the son of the late William E. and Mary Black Lessman.  He is survived by his wife, Marilyn “Lynn” Wilson Lessman, his daughter, Dorothy Jane Wilson, his granddaughter, Katelynn Anlage, also by brothers, Gregg, Todd, Eddie, Tom, and Shawn.  An electrician and fishing guide, he was the bass guitar player for the musical group “Ancient Dream”, and served as sound technician for other bands.  He was the owner of the patent for a fishing device called “Citation”, an avid hunter, and a muzzle loader expert.  It could be said that he was a jack of all trades, and a master of many.  Hunter Funeral Home, Inc., 1600 Coursin Street, McKeesport, PA  15132 is in charge of arrangements.  A gathering for all those who have had Bill in their life will be held, details to be announced.  The family suggests contributions to the American Heart Association.

 


Geraldine Nelson

January 05, 2023 |

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

Geraldine (Papp) Nelson, 84, of Elizabeth Township, passed away Monday, January 2, 2023. She was born November 3, 1938 in McKeesport, and was the daughter to the late Lawrence and Margaret Emma (Toth) Papp. She was the loving wife of 64 years to Wayne Henry Nelson, who passed away October 24, 2022. Gerry was a long time active member of First Evangelical Free Church and alongside her husband was on the Board of Directors at the McKeesport branch of the William Penn Association, which is a non-profit organization that offers life insurance to those in the community and surrounding areas. For 30+ years, Gerry worked as a Secretary of Construction for G.C Murphy before transferring to the McKeesport Housing Opportunity, where she became the Executive Secretary & Vice President.

 
Read More


Barbara Rose Mayfield

January 05, 2023 |

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

Barbara Rose Mayfield, 82, of Liberty Borough, passed away Sunday, January 1, 2022. She was born March 7, 1940 in Port Vue, and is the daughter to the late Charles and Rose (Sucha) Huemme. Barb worked many years in the banking industry, working for the same company, but many locations & various name changes, now known as Huntington Bank. She was a member of Central Highlands Methodist Church, Meals on Wheels, and crocheted with the Shepherds, which is a caring ministry, providing prayer shawls, walker aprons, cards, and even offered prayer support for members and their friends and family within the community. Barb was an avid reader as she would sit up all night to finish a book. She enjoyed baking, traveling & she especially loved her trips to the beach. Barb was a strong-willed, feisty woman, and will be missed by many.

 
Read More


Joseph M. Pollack

January 05, 2023 |

By Jaycox-Jaworski Funeral Home - Crematory | Posted in: Jaycox-Jaworski Funeral Home & Crematory

Joseph M. Pollack, age 93, of McKeesport, died January 1, 2023, at home.  Born July 3, 1929, in Duquesne, he was the son of the late Michael and Mary (Tkac) Pollack and husband of the late Dorothy Pollack.  

 
Read More


Marie J. Ference

January 05, 2023 |

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

Marie J. (Squires) Ference, age 93, of Jefferson Hills, passed away on Tuesday, January 3, 2023  at Jefferson Hospital. She was a member of St. John XXIII Parish, St. Isaac Jogues Church in Elrama and was a former postal clerk with the U.S. Postal Service in Floreffe and Clairton. Born May 13, 1929 in McKeesport, she was a daughter of the late Vincent and Stella (Budka) Squires and wife of the late Edward J. Ference. She is survived by daughter, Diane Ference of Jefferson Hills; sons, Daniel (Margie) Ference of Glassport, Robert (Amy) Ference of Rostraver Twp. and Thomas (Lori) Ference of Finleyville; eight grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; brothers, Raymond Squires of North Versailles, Thomas Squires of San Jose, CA and Vincent Squires of Lakeland, FL; also, nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by sisters, Irene Meyer, Phyllis Shuster and Betty Pater, and brother, Ralph Squires. Friends will be received in the Paul E. Bekavac Funeral Home, 221 North Second Avenue, Elizabeth on Sunday, January 8, 2023 from 2-4 and 6-8 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Monday, January 9, 2023 at 10:30 AM in St. Isaac Jogues Roman Catholic Church (St. John 23rd Parish) with the Rev. Pierre Falkenhan officiating. Burial will follow in St. Mary's Czestochowa Cemetery, White Oak. Offer condolences at www.bekavacfuneralhome.com.

 


Joan Lee Konias

January 04, 2023 |

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

Joan Lee Konias, 87, of Boston, passed away Tuesday, January 3, 2023. She was born April 26, 1935 in Monongahela and was the daughter of the late Louis and Susan (Bianchi) DeSantis. She was a member of Mary, Mother of God Parish, St. Patrick Church, Christy Park. She was also a member of the former Boston Fire Co. Ladies Auxiliary. Joan had worked for the former DeSantis Dairyland in Boston and the former Tastee Donut Bakery. She is survived by her husband, Thomas Konias, son, James (Kim) Konias of Greenock, granddaughter, Lindsay (Howard) Lesofsky of North Huntingdon, great-grandchildren, Reese and Nathan Lesofsky, nephews, Larry (Donna) DeSantis and Darrin (Valerie) DeSantis, and sister-in-law, MaryAnn DeSantis. She was preceded in death by her brother, Salvatore DeSantis. Funeral service will be held Friday, January 6, 2023 at 10 am in the chapel of the Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 6028 Smithfield Street, Boston, Elizabeth Township. (412) 751-5000 Drew J. Gilbert, director. The Rev. Vincent P. Velas, will officiate. Private inurnment will be in the Mount Vernon Cemetery Garden Mausoleum. Elizabeth Township. Condolences may be made at Gilbertfuneralhomeandcrematory.com