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.


Paul A. Homonai

September 19, 2018 |

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

Paul A. Homonai, age 88, of North Versailles, died September 17, 2018, at UPMC Presbyterian. Born June 10, 1930, in McKeesport, he was the son of the late John and Mary (Egley) Homonai and the husband of Thelma (Sabo) Homonai, for 68 years.

 
Read More


Christa M. Shumber

September 19, 2018 |

By Wojciechowski Funeral Home | Posted in: Wojciechowski Funeral Home

CHRISTA M. SHUMBER, 43 of Glassport died Sept. 16, 2018.  Christa passed away peacefully at home. She was warmly welcomed into Heaven by her loving parents, grandparents, family & friends who have gone before her. Christa is the daughter of the late Edward and Maryann (Tyszkiewicz) Shumber.  She is survived by her fiancé, Ryan Dezzutti;  great aunt, Norma Tyszkiewicz; aunts Helen "Cookie" Holland, Patricia “Patti” Sopp, Dolly (Joseph Holland) Shumber and Betty Jean (John) Martinis; uncle Francis (Mary) Shumber; cousins Heather (Timothy) Farnan and Tiffany (Shaun) Finneran; and many cousins and dear friends.  Christa always enjoyed swimming, playing board games and going for ice cream with her younger cousins, Ryan & Jazlyn Farnan, and Miles & Alina Finneran. Christa was a graduate of South Allegheny, and a proud member of the high school marching band. She went on to the University of Pittsburgh where she earned a masters degree in chemical engineering. She was an active member of Queen of the Rosary Parish. Christa was also very involved in her M.S. Group. There was nothing she enjoyed more than spending time with her fiancé, family & friends. She truly enjoyed eating at new restaurants & listening to live bands. Friends will be received at Wojciechowski Funeral Home, in Glassport on Fri. 2-4 and 6-8.  A funeral  mass will be held Sat. 10:00 am at Queen of the Rosary Parish with Father Miroslaus Wojcicki.  Interment following New St. Joseph Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions in Christa’s memory be made to the National MS Society, Pennsylvania Keystone Chapter, 1501 Reedsdale Street, Suite 105, Suite 15233  

 


Eugene Howard Worthy

September 19, 2018 |

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

Eugene Howard Worthy, 93, of White Oak, died Monday, September 17, 2018. He was born December 13, 1924 in McKeesport and was the son of the late Matthew and Jeannette (Mack) Worthy. Eugene was a member of the former St. John's Evangelical Lutheran Church in McKeesport and was retired from US Steel National Tube Works, and Westinghouse in East Pittsburgh. He was a WWII US Army Veteran and served along the China-Burma Road. For his service, he received the American Theater Ribbon, Asiatic-Pacific Theater Ribbon w/2 Bronze Stars, Good Conduct Medal and the WWII Victory Medal. He is survived by his wife, Betty Jane (Mezoff) Worthy, daughters, Beverly Wayne of Dublin, OH, June L. (Donald) Kudas of White Oak, and Betty Gene (Mark) Stoner of Elizabethtown, grandchildren, Emily (Ralph) Rajadurai, Valerie (Mark) Bacco, Todd (Nicole) Kudas, Jacqueline (Gerry) Greco, Lindsay (Andy) Hoover and Nathan (Tasha) Stoner, great-grandchildren, Reece, Jules and Wynne Greco, Audriana and Samuel Bacco, Shelby, Kelsey, and Mackenzie Hoover and Natalie Stoner, and nieces and nephews.

 
Read More


Richard B. Stokes

September 18, 2018 |

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

Richard B. Stokes, 60, of East McKeesport, passed away Monday, September 17, 2018 at Allegheny General Hospital.  He was born January 2, 1958 in McKeesport, a son of the late Richard G. and Shirley Joan (Schmidt) Stokes.  He was a 1977 graduate of Thomas Jefferson High School and was politically active and involved in the city of Wilmerding.  He is survived by his brother, Richard Denny Stokes; sisters, Darlene Klamerus and her husband, Gregory, Beverly Stonick and her husband, Richard and Patricia Ryan and her husband, George.  Family and friends will gather from 9-10 am on Friday, September 21 with a Memorial Service  to follow at 10 am at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike,  North Huntingdon, PA.   Interment to follow in Round Hill Cemetery, Elizabeth, PA.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Heart Association.  www.shirleyfuneralhome.com.

 


William G. Gault

September 18, 2018 |

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

And The Lord said, come on home Bill, you're done on Earth, and with that said, William Gault left and went to see our Savior.  Yes, Bill was born on May 6, 1943 and went hopefully to see God on September 17, 2018.  He was the lucky son of Matthew and Dorothy Gault, of Hunker, PA.  Bill after becoming an adult, moved to North Huntingdon.  He was the proud husband of Donna Jean Gault;  brother, David (Pam) Gault and Robert (Denise) Gault; mother and father-in-law, Rose and Dale Watson; and brother-in-law, Carl Skooglund.  He was  preceded in death by his brother, Matthew B. Gault III; sister, Sandra Skooglund; and brother-in-law Gary Watson.

Bill loved life and enjoyed what it gave.  He loved sports as a boy, playing football at Greensburg Salem and Hempfield.  He also enjoyed sharing his voice with others.  Singing in choirs, soloing and being in quartets.   After trying college at Allegheny the Navy is where he spent the next few years helping to defend this beautiful country.  He traveled quite a bit, stopping in Italy, France, Germany and Africa, just to name a few.  He also said hello to Laos, Vietnam and his favorite, Asia.  Bill loved to swim, so he joined the Navy and eventually became a Navy Seal.  There wasn't a rice paddy, swamp or forest he didn't like.  He got to know a few of them personally.  The citizens of those country's also got to know Bill and make him feel like one of their own.  When he got home, it was like being in a foreign country.  Bill was a pretty good cook too, and at one time even owned several restaurants in the Kansas City, Missouri area.  After retiring from the hospitality and catering business, Bill moved back home to PA.  Here, Bill sold insurance, computers, windows, phones and computer programs for ambulance and funeral homes for a while.  He then went on to working in the automotive business selling vehicles for Hamilton Buick before he retired again.  Bill was a lucky guy, he had many friends and acquaintances and a large family of nieces, nephews and great-nieces and great-nephews whom he loved dearly, and his beloved dog Conner aka Bubber.  Yes, Bill loved his life and hopes that he will see you all again.  But not soon.  There will be no public visitations.  Arrangements made by the James  W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon, PA.  www.shirleyfuneralhome.com

 


August M. Gatto

September 17, 2018 |

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

August  M. Gatto, age 84, of Elizabeth, passed away on Monday, September 17, 2018 at HCR Manor Care in Whitehall. An Army veteran, he retired after 42 years as a pipefitter for U.S. Steel Clairton Works. He was a lifelong member and devout supporter of St. Michael Parish in Elizabeth Twp. where he was active in numerous church functions. He was an avid sports fan and especially enjoyed watching his grandchildren's competitions. 

 
Read More


Joseph Hudak III

September 17, 2018 |

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

 Joseph Hudak, III, age 68, of White Oak, died September 15, 2018 at home. Born May 24, 1950, in McKeesport, he was the son of the late Joseph and Victoria (Miklos) Hudak and the husband of Roberta (Kushner) Hudak, for nearly 42 years.

 
Read More


Elizabeth F. “Betty” Kifer

September 17, 2018 |

By William Snyder Funeral Home | Posted in: William Snyder Funeral Home

Elizabeth F. “Betty” Kifer, 91, of Monroeville, formerly of Irwin, died Friday September 14, 2018. She was born July 3, 1927 in Titusville, a daughter of the late Clyde L. and Iris (Mook) Friend and was also preceded in death by her husband James B. Kifer and her brother and his wife Clyde and Myrtle Friend. She was a retired secretary for Equitable Gas Co. and a longtime member of First United Church of Christ, Irwin. Prior to her husband’s passing they enjoyed traveling in their motorhome and enjoyed bridge club with friends.
 
Read More


Sue Ann (Ghrist) Downard

September 17, 2018 |

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

Sue Ann (Ghrist) Downard, 60, of Adamsburg, died Saturday, September 15, 2018. She was born May 23, 1958 in Adamsburg and was the daughter of the late William J. and Marjorie Ann (Stubbs) Ghrist. She is survived by her brothers, William E. (Teresa) Ghrist of Jeanette and Scott E. Ghrist of Adamsburg, sister, Paula Ghrist of Adamsburg,  nephew, Christopher Ghrist, nieces, Tricia and Terri Ghrist, and great nieces and nephews, Kody, Rylan, Riley, and Brayden.

 
Read More


Thomas A. Piotrowski

September 16, 2018 |

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

Thomas A. Piotrowski, age 90, a World War II veteran, avid gardener and lifelong resident of McKeesport, passed away peacefully on September 16, 2018.

Tom was born November 16, 1927, to the late Louis and Josephine (Pasko) Piotrowski, Polish immigrants who settled in Liberty Borough. He grew up in the Christy Park district of McKeesport with his seven brothers and sisters and graduated from McKeesport Area Vocational Technical High in 1945.

Tom was drafted into active service with the Army of the United States in 1946, serving in the 336th Ordnance Depot Company. He attended cook and mess sergeant school at Fort George G. Meade in Maryland. Tom also served in the Western Pacific Theater of Operations during World War II, as a mess hall cook in Manila, Philippines. He was promoted to Private First Class and awarded the Army of Occupation and World  War II Victory medals for his overseas service.

Tom was honorably discharged in 1947 and returned home to McKeesport. He married Dorothy Frances Kolodziej, a fellow Christy Parker from the next street over, and the devoted couple had three children: Carol, Tom Jr. and Frank. Tom worked for more than 35 years at U.S. Steel National Tube Works in McKeesport, becoming senior physical tester.

Tom enjoyed taking his wife and children on many summer vacations to Ocean City, Maryland and Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, where they often camped on the beach. He continued the tradition with his two granddaughters and loved early morning walks in Myrtle Beach. Tom never passed up a good meal and enjoyed spending many hours tending mini roses in his backyard garden.

 
Read More


Nancy Marghella (Dandar)

September 16, 2018 |

By Hunter Funeral Home | Posted in: Hunter Funeral Home

Nancy Marghella (Dandar), 64, of North Versailles, died Saturday, September 15, 2018 at her home.  Born in North Versailles, she was the daughter of the late Edward and Josephine Vistal Dandar.  She is survived by her son, Frank Harding, Jr. of North Versailles, her daughter, Ashley Opel of North Huntingdon, her grandson, Dylan Opel, her four legged children, Lassie and Jazz, and also by her brothers and sisters.  When she was not at work helping others, she enjoyed spending time outdoors gardening and swimming.  She was a member of V.F.W. Post #8430 in East McKeesport, a social member of the South Wilmerding Fire Hall, and the Smedley D. Butler Post #701, American Legion in White Oak.  Friends will be received in the Hunter Funeral Home, Inc., 1600 Coursin Street, McKeesport, PA  15132 on Saturday, September 22, 2018 from 2-5 PM.  The family suggests contributions to Humane Animal Rescue, 6926 Hamilton Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA  15208.

 


Mary Ann Cypher Alfonsi

September 16, 2018 |

By Finney Funeral Homes | Posted in: Finney Funeral Homes

It is with great sadness that the family of Mary Ann Cypher Alfonsi announces her passing on Saturday, September 15th at the age of 72 at her West Mifflin home supported by her loving family.  Born July 2, 1946 in Clairton, PA, she was the daughter of the late Margaret Edna and Charles D. Cypher Sr.  of Clairton, PA.  Mary Ann will be forever remembered by her loving husband of 50 years, Lee Alfonsi of West Mifflin and children, Melissa Lee (Christopher) Brannen of State College and Amy Lynn Alfonsi of West Mifflin.  Mary Ann was a loving grandmother to Emma and Sarah Rohan of State College.  She is also survived by  sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her brother, Charles D. Cypher Jr. and her favorite dog Lizzy, along with many more beloved pets. 

As a biology teacher and then department head at McKeesport Area High School for over 30 years, Mary Ann educated thousands of teenagers on the wonders of science and mentored new student teachers.  She tirelessly supported her daughters in extracurricular activities when they were young by volunteering her time and creative talents and continued that tradition by encouraging her granddaughters’ endeavors in academics, sports and the arts.  She loved video games and was active on social media where she always spoke her mind. She enjoyed a good argument almost as much as a good laugh.  Her granddaughter said it best in her memorial post; “I am lucky to have had this cool human as my grandma. She was a mom, a biology teacher, an avid scrapbooker, a surprisingly tech savvy baby-boomer, a consistent patron of my abandoned singing career, an amazing cook who really knew how to throw a party, and just a really creative person.”.  Mary Ann was blessed to be able to celebrate 50 years of marriage in July with her husband Lee who will forever miss their trips to the casino, preparing outlandishly huge holiday feasts, and co-hosting family and neighbors on the side porch with evenings filled with food, drink, and laughter. Her daughters and granddaughters are grateful to her for showing them, by example, how to be strong independent women.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, September 18, 2018 at S.M FINNEY FUNERAL HOME, 432 N 6th Street, Clairton, PA 15025, from 2 – 4 and 6 – 8 pm.  Mass will be held on Wednesday, September 19, 2018 at 10:00 am, at Holy Spirit Catholic Church, 2603 Old Elizabeth Road, West Mifflin,  PA  15122, followed by entombment at Lebanon Church Cemetery Mausoleum. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to the American Heart Associations, 444 Liberty Ave #1300, Pittsburgh, PA 15222. Online condolences may be offered at www.finneyfuneralhome.com

 


Donna Marie Kestler

September 15, 2018 |

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

Donna Marie Kestler, age 68, of McKeesport, died Sept. 8, 2018, at her home. Born July 23, 1950, in McKeesport, she was the daughter of the late George and Eleanor H. (Gayok) Olaison and the wife of Michael E. Sease, Sr.

 
Read More


David A. Makay

September 14, 2018 |

By Wojciechowski Funeral Home | Posted in: Teichart-Gracan Funeral Home

David A. Makay, 48, of White Oak, died Sept. 14, 2018.  He is the son of the late Albert and Ellen (Loir) Makay.  Dave is survived by his daughter Kathryn Makay; sister Janice (Bruce) Miller; brother Ed (Kelly) Makay and many dear friends.  A celebration of Life honoring Dave will be held Sunday, Sept 30th at Butler's Golf Course (Rock Run Inn) at 3:00 pm.  Please join us in celebrating Dave's life, love an friendsip.  Funeral arrangements by Teichart-Gracan Funeral Home, Duquesne.

 


William H. Owens

September 14, 2018 |

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

William H. Owens, age 91, of Elizabeth Twp., passed away on Thursday, September 13, 2018 at UPMC McKeesport. He retired as a machinist and fire chief for U.S. Steel, Irvin Works. He was a member of St. Michael Parish in Elizabeth Twp. where he was a two-term church council member, usher, eucharistic minister, and an altar server. A Navy veteran having served in World War II, he was a member of American Legion Post 0712 of Pleasant Hills, the Knights of Columbus, Council 10077, Stephen P. Berry Council and its Color Corps. 

 
Read More