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Nancy M. Thomas

July 15, 2023 |

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

Nancy M. Thomas, 86, of North Huntingdon, passed away Friday, July 14, 2023 at UPMC East, Monroeville.  She was born May 12, 1937 in North Braddock, a daughter of the late Anthony and Mary (Shuble) Rozanec.  Nancy was a founding member of St. Agnes Church and active with Christian Mothers.  She volunteered countless hours in St. Agnes School cafeteria and was a Girl Scout Leader.  After moving to Virginia in the '80's she was an active member of Christ the Redeemer Parish in Sterling, VA and was very faith driven.  Nancy was a caring and compassionate woman and an inspiration to us all.  She had patience of a saint and had enough love in her heart for every person on earth.  Family meant everything to her, always putting their needs before her own and was the glue of the family giving hugs that held everyone together.  She loved cooking and baking life changing pies, spending time with her family, reading, working puzzles and gardening.

 
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Sophie Balawajder

July 14, 2023 |

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

Sophie Balawajder, age 95, of Elizabeth Twp., died peacefully at home on July 13, 2023.  Born April 8, 1928, in Wilmerding, PA, she was the daughter of the late Michael and Apolonia (Szczypek) Lorenc and wife of the late Bruno Balawajder, to whom she was married for 44 years.  Sophie was a 67-year member of St. Mary of Częstochowa Church, now Mary, Mother of God Parish, Corpus Christi Church, in McKeesport, and was a past President of the Confraternity of Christian Mothers.  She had a love of family and friends, her faith, and her Polish heritage.  Her activities included ceramics, quilting, volunteering for the church, and baking.  Her quilts are cherished keepsakes for all her family members.  Many of the family celebrations had her cookies on the Cookie Table.  The family would like to thank everyone who made her years later in life comfortable by stopping by, making a phone call, or sending a birthday card.  Her long-term friends, known as the “Church Ladies,” always made her day, as well as her many nieces and nephews.  Her caregivers also are to be recognized for the comfort they provided.

 
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Jeffrey Joseph "Jeff" Holub

July 14, 2023 |

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

Jeffrey Joseph "Jeff" Holub, 62, of McKeesport, passed away Monday, July 10, 2023. He was  born May 7, 1961 in McKeesport an was the son of the late John J. and Rita Mae (Gallagher) Holub.  Jeff owned and operated JJH Landscaping since 1979, and did many landscaping jobs over the years.  He is survived by his brother, Jordan D. Holub of McKeesport, an aunt, an uncle and cousins.  In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, John Bradley "JB" Holub, who passed away June 21, 2016. There was no visitation. Private burial took place at St. Joseph Cemetery in North Versailles on Thursday, July 13, 2023.  Arrangements are by the Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 6028 Smithfield Street, Boston, Elizabeth Township.  Condolences may be made at GilbertFuneralHomeandCrematory.com

 


Patricia J. Reola

July 13, 2023 |

By Administrator | Posted in: James F. Kutch Funeral Home - Crematory

Patricia J. Reola, age 83, passed away on July 8, 2023. She is survived by her two daughters, Pamela Haubrick (Edward), and Cheryl Wilson (Robert), and two grandchildren who she loved and adored, Nicole Javorski and Thomas Javorski (Jenna) along with 4 great grandpuppies; brother, Paul Yurigan; and nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Reola; and parents, Anna and Paul Yurigan. No visitation, service private.  James F. Kutch Funeral Homes & Crematory 433 Lincoln Highway East McKeesport, PA 15035 (412) 823-4054  Please leave condolences at the website.

 


Nigel Christopher Wayne Hogan

July 13, 2023 |

By Administrator | Posted in: Robert A. Waters Funeral Home

Nigel Christopher Wayne Hogan, 33, of Braddock, was born October 22, 1989, in Greensburg, PA. He was the beloved son of the late Natalie Carol Hogan and stepson to James Bailey.

Nigel attended school at Gateway High School. He was the oldest of four siblings, James Hogan, Jared Harris, and Stevin German.

Nigel liked to make people laugh and had a good sense of humor. He always reached out to family, though dispersed, and worked to keep our ties strong. He was the hub of our wheel and kept up our tabs all around.

 
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Phillip Daryl Hampton

July 13, 2023 |

By Administrator | Posted in: Robert A. Waters Funeral Home

Phillip Daryl Hampton, 56, died July 7, 2023. Friends will be received from 10 to 11 a.m. Friday, July 14, 2023 at Robert A. Waters Funeral Home, Inc., 2326 Jenny Lind St., McKeesport, where a service will be held at 11 a.m.

 


Michael O. Berkovitz

July 13, 2023 |

By Hunter Funeral Home | Posted in: Hunter Funeral Home

Michael O. Berkovitz, 78, of Lakewood, CA, died Friday, July 7, 2023 at Lakewood Regional Medical Center, Lakewood, CA.  Born in McKeesport, PA on July 3, 1945, he was the son of the late Leonard M. and Irma Ruth Odle Berkovitz.  He was the owner of the former Chestnut Inn on Fifth Avenue in McKeesport, and most recently worked at Salton Industries, maker of the George Foreman Grills. 

He was a member of the Congregation Shir Chadash of Lakewood, CA and a former member of the Temple B’nai Israel in White Oak, PA.  He was a graduate of the University School, Shadyside, Pittsburgh, PA. 

He is survived by sons, Daniel Berkovitz of Rawlins, WY and William Berkovitz of Belle Vernon, PA; grandson, Wyatt; granddaughter Kayla Berkovitz of Hawaii, sisters, Idelle (Richard) Roth of Walnut Creek, CA and Susan Sabin of Pompano Beach, FL, and by his partner of 20 years, Gloria Pelenato of Lakewood, CA.

 
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John Aiken

July 13, 2023 |

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

John Aiken, age 67, of Elrama, formerly of Chicago, IL, passed away on Wednesday, July 12, 2023 at Jefferson Hospital. He was a retired employee at the University of Chicago. He was an avid reader and loved movies and stage plays. Born September 11, 1955 in New Eagle, he was a son of the late Samuel J. Aiken Jr. and the late Elaine (Estaque) Aiken. He is survived by his sister, Debbie (Wayne Sr.) Wilson of Elrama; nephew, Wayne (Kristy) Wilson Jr. of Strabane; great-niece, Elaina Wilson; aunt, Estelle Livingston of Monongahela; also, cousins.

Private services are pending. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association, Four Gateway Center, 444 Liberty Avenue, Suite 1300, Pittsburgh, PA 15222 or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105. Arrangements by the Paul E. Bekavac Funeral Home, Elizabeth. Offer condolences at www.bekavacfuneralhome.com.

 


Virginia Pons

July 13, 2023 |

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

Virginia Pons, 84, of Whitaker, passed away on Thur. July 13, 2023.  She is the daughter of the late John and Mary Gretz and beloved wife of the late Mickey Pons.  She is survived by her daughter Jennifer (Richard) Marecic; sisters Beverly and Stephanie; brothers John and Frank; grandchildren Jonathan, Melissa, Jake, Paige and Vincent and great grandchildren.  She was preceded in death by her sons Michael and Gino Pons.  Virginia was a member of St. Rita's Church in Whitaker.  Funeral arrangements by Teichart-Gracan Funeral Home, Duquesne

 


S. Howard Pittard

July 13, 2023 |

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

S. Howard Pittard, age 82, of Mooresville, NC, formerly of Elizabeth, passed away on Monday, July 10, 2023 at Novant Health Huntersville Medical Center. A Marine veteran, he retired as the founder and CEO for East Texas Coatings in Nash, TX, and was a lifetime Mason through the Grand Lodge of Pennsylvania.

Born November 28, 1940 in McKeesport, he was a son of the late Howard Wilson and Ida (Breckenridge) Pittard. He is survived by his wife, Virginia "Gin" Blake; sons, Raymond D. (Rhonda) Pittard of Johns Island, SC and Robb E. Pittard of Mooresville, NC; Lori (Todd) Price of Monroe, NC; grandchildren, Lauren (Sean) Murphy of Kansas City, Lindsey Dissinger of Bozeman, MT, Ethan Dissinger of Belgrade, MT, Aiden Price of Monroe, NC, and Grayson Price of Monroe, NC; great-grandchildren, Graham and Madeline Murphy; also, nieces and nephews.

 
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Dale W. McDonnell

July 13, 2023 |

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

Dale W. McDonnell, 79, of Dravosburg, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on Wednesday, July 12, 2023 at home. 

He was born October 22, 1943 in McKeesport and was the son of the late Kenneth McDonnell Sr. and Rita Kelley (The late Thomas Hoak) McDonnell-Hoak.  He was a US Army Veteran.

In 1990, Dale obtained his Associates Degree in Social Work of Special Needs Youth and Adults from CCAC. Dale worked as a social worker for many years, working for both Auberle Boystown and Chartiers Center for Behavioral Health. He had also attended The Pittsburgh Beauty Academy and enjoyed cutting hair.  He was a doting husband who loved to serve his Queen.

 
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Deborah E. Wetzler

July 12, 2023 |

By William S. Skovranko Memorial Home | Posted in: William S. Skovranko Memorial Home

Deborah E. (Wirginis) Wetzer, 70, of Munhall, entered into eternal rest peacefully at home on Tuesday, July 11, 2023. Born in McKeesport on May 9, 1953, she was the daughter of Helen (Glovis) Uchnar and the late Peter Paul Wirginis. Mrs. Wetzler was a member of Mary, Mother of God Parish, St. Angela Merici Church, White Oak, and a retired information specialist for the Veterans Administration, Pittsburgh. Beloved wife of Oscar C. Wetzler, she is also survived by her mother, a sister, Beverly Carol Yarsky a niece, Sharon Pliske, two nephews, Dr. Peter Yarsky and Michael Yarsky, and her four legged children, Jake, Chaco and Jazz. In addition to her father she was also preceded in death by a sister, Valerie Karen Balavage.

Friends and family will be received on Friday July 14, 2023, from 1-4 and 6-9 P.M. in the William S. Skovranko Memorial Home Inc., 828 Richford Street, Duquesne. A Blessing at 8:45 A.M. on Saturday July 15, 2023 in the Memorial Home will be followed by Mass of Christian Burial at 9:30 A.M. in St. Angela Merici Church with Rev. Joseph Beck as celebrant.

 
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Dr. Paul A. Balta D.D.S

July 12, 2023 |

By Maloy-Schleifer Funeral Home | Posted in: Maloy-Schleifer Funeral Home

 

Dr. Paul A. Balta D.D.S., age 87, of Gibsonia, formerly of Duquesne, passed away on July 12, 2023, at his residence, surrounded by his family. Born in Duquesne on April 29, 1936, he was the son of the late George and Ella (Kushnir) Balta. He was a graduate of Duquesne High School, Class of 1954, the University of Pittsburgh (undergraduate) and University of Pittsburgh Dental School in 1962.

He served in the Navy as a dentist at Camp Lejeune from 1962-1964. He was a dentist for 47 years, with an office first in Elizabeth and then Duquesne, before retiring in 2009. He was a member of S.S. Peter & Paul Byzantine Catholic Church, Duquesne. He was an avid fan of all Pittsburgh sports teams, particularly Pitt Football for which he had season tickets for many years. He enjoyed bowling, coached softball for the Croatian Club, and coached little league for his son Dan.

He loved playing Baggo “Cornhole”, all card games, listening to Myron Cope and Mike Lang on his transistor radio, and spending time with his children and grandchildren. He was a sentimental soul who cried every time he opened greeting cards and presents from his family. Sarcasm was one of his many talents and he had a smile that could light up a room.

 
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Gary Andrews

July 12, 2023 |

By William S. Skovranko Memorial Home | Posted in: William S. Skovranko Memorial Home

Gary J. Andrews, 64, of Coraopolis, died on Sunday, July 9, 2023, in Allegheny General Hospital, Pittsburgh. Born in Pittsburgh, January 18, 1959, he was the son of the late Lawrence T. and Violet L. (Haupt) Andrews . Mr. Andrews was a longtime resident of Merakey / Allegheny Valley School in Coraopolis.  He is  survived a sister, Patricia D. Andrews , a niece Brittany Andrews and her fiance William O'Brien, Great nieces and nephews Bradley Andrews, Sloane O'Brien and Giana O'Brien. Mr. Andrews was also preceded in death by a brother Michael J. Andrews.

Family and friends will be received in the William S. Skovranko Memorial Home, Inc., 828 Richford Street, Duquesne, from 2- 6P.M.  on Sunday, July 16, 2023. A Blessing Service will be held at 6 P.M. on Sunday. His family wishes donations be made to Merakey / Allegheny Valley School 1992 Ewings Mill Road, Coraopolis, PA. 15108 in Gary's memory.

 


Robert Blank

July 12, 2023 |

By William S. Skovranko Memorial Home | Posted in: William S. Skovranko Memorial Home

Robert Blank, 73, passed away on Tuesday, July 11, 2023, at Monroeville Rehabilitation and Wellness Center. Born January 16, 1950, in McKeesport, he was the son of the late Benedict and Margaret (Hausenberger) Blank. Mr. Blank was a retired fork lift operator for the Fort Pitt Foundry Company of McKeesport. He enjoyed playing pool, riding motorcycles, telling a good joke and was a big Elvis fan. He is survived by a sister, Carol Shea, a niece, Heather Stanoszek, and a nephew, Ben Geiger.

Per Mr. Blanks wishes there will be no visitation or services. Arrangements are entrusted to the William S. Skovranko Memorial Home Inc., 828 Richford Street, Duquesne.

 
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