December 09, 2025 |
By Willig Funeral Home | Posted in: Willig Funeral Home & Crematory
Cathy Lynn Callis, age 73, of McKeesport, died December 3, 2025, at UPMC Magee. Born December 21, 1951, in Pittsburgh. She was the daughter of the late Margaret Main.
Cathy dedicated her life to caring for her family and home. She was an avid bingo player and also enjoyed cooking.
She is survived by her brothers, Russell and Darron; many nieces and nephews; her daughters, Nicole, Shawna, La'Sheda, and adopted daughter, Tammy; her grandchildren, Kaydins, Savannah, Jordan, Luke, Margaret, Haley, Joseph, Sierra, Heather, Vanessa, Tai' Vaughn, Micah, and Ma'Lahnii and her great-grandchildren, Aragorn, Alyson, Adilyn, Lance and Mason, as well as many friends whom she treated as family.
In addition to her mother, she was also preceded in death by her brother, Dean Main; daughter, Tammie Callis; nephew, Darron Main Jr, and grandson, Doug, Jr.
Arrangements were entrusted to Willig Funeral Home & Crematory.
Condolences and memories may be shared at www.willigfuneralcremationservices.com.
Charles Danforth, Supervisor
December 09, 2025 |
By Jaycox-Jaworski Funeral Home - Crematory | Posted in: Jaycox-Jaworski Funeral Home & Crematory
Edwin P. (Pookie) Mushalko, aged 92 of Whit Oak went to be with the Lord on Saturday, Dec. 6 at UPMC East Hospital in the presence of his family. He was a son of the late George and Mary Lasota Mushalko. He was born on Jan. 16, 1933 in McKeesport, PA.
Edwin was a veteran of the Korean War. He was employed by US Steel National Works as a superintendent in the shipping department. After the plant closed in 1984, he worked for Three Rivers Business Graphics, then the Davis Family in Churchill. He worked with his son-in-law Gregg, constructing homes in the area.
He was a life-long member of Holy Family PNCC, where he had been an altar boy, former choir member and handyman at the church. He was also a member of White Oak American Legion Post #701.
He enjoyed reading, gardening, playing solitaire on his computer, the Pirates, Steelers, NASCAR, and golfing. He enjoyed vacations with family and friends in Ocean City, NJ, Upstate New York, and touring Civil War Battlefields.
He helped coach the T-Shirt League in McKeesport when his sons played. He also played on several area teams playing baseball and softball in league competition.
Edwin is survived by his wife of 65 years, Arlene Strawniak Mushalko, his beloved daughter Lisa Mushalko (Everett Gregg) Samples, beloved son Timothy (Valerie Simpson) Mushalko, brother George A. Mushalko, and sister Jean Jasiewicz. Grandchildren Everett Tristan (Bretton) Samples and Christopher Paul Samples. His adored great-grandchildren Violet and Darcy Samples. Brother-in-Law Harold Strawniak, Sister-in-Laws Barbara Strawniak and Kathy Strawniak. Also, grand-dog Hazel and grand-cats Doo Dee and Trista. Also Nick and Luke Simpson. Also many nieces, nephews, and friends.
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December 09, 2025 |
By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory
Dr. David E. Gombar passed away on Monday, December 8th, 2025, in Charlotte, NC after a lengthy illness. He was 77 years old. He was born in McKeesport, PA on April 5th, 1948, and lived in Clairton, PA for most of his life, only moving to Charlotte in 2012 to be closer to family. He was a resident of Carmel Hills Retirement Community for the last 11 years.
He graduated from Clairton High School in 1966, where he played for the Bears football team as a halfback and safety. Upon graduation, the Pennsylvania Industrial Chemical Corporation awarded him an academic college scholarship of $500 per year for college tuition, which allowed him to be the first of his family to attend college. Upon arriving at Geneva College, he walked-on to the football team where the coach refused to give him a uniform due to his short stature. After the coach called David's high school to confirm that he had played high school football the coach gave him a uniform. Before the first game, David not only earned a spot on the team, but he also earned a starting position at both halfback and safety due to his tenacity and speed. Plus, he returned kickoffs and punts, thus never coming out of the entire games. After his freshman year he was awarded a partial athletic scholarship due to his performance on the football field.
David loved the sciences, especially biology, where he excelled academically. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in biology from Geneva College in 1970. Entering college his aspiration had been for medical school but while at Geneva College he was influenced by the growing mainline acceptance of chiropractic care. After college he diligently worked part time jobs to put himself through the prestigious Palmer College of Chiropractic in Davenport, Iowa. Upon receiving his doctorate in 1974, Dr. D. D. Palmer offered David a professorship teaching at Palmer, but David decided to join a very active chiropractic practice in Johnstown, PA that served as an excellent internship period. Two years later, in 1976, he opened his own practice in Pleasant Hills, PA where he practiced for the remainder of his career until he had to retire in December 2011 due to health reasons.
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December 08, 2025 |
By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory
Lenart J. Pollak, age 88 of Liberty Borough, passed away peacefully on Friday, December 5, 2025. Born June 26, 1937, in McKeesport, PA. He was a son of the late Steve Pollak and the late Rose (Lenart) Pollak, the husband of the late Eunice B. (Barchie) Pollak, and the father of the late Sharon Pollak. Lenart was a retired manager for various Thorofare and Foodland stores and a member of St. Joachim and Anne Parish. He is survived by his children, Kathleen (Peter) Huntington of Bethel Park, PA, Tim (Nancy) Pollak of Frederick, MD, Bill (Stephanie) Pollak of Lake Ridge, VA, and Terri Mitchell of Liberty Borough, PA, his grandchildren, Katherine Huntington, Bobby (Mackenzie) Huntington, Becky (Trevor Grouse) Pollak, Nick (Hannah) Pollak, Mike (Anna) Pollak, Lacey (Joe) Serbia, Chelsea (David) Akers, Emily (Kyle Oakes) Mitchell, Casey Mitchell; and his great-grandchildren, Amelia Serbia, Zoey Grouse, and Gabe Pollak. In addition to his parents, wife, and daughter, he was preceded in death by his brother, Reverend Claude Pollak, O.S.B..
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December 08, 2025 |
By Willig Funeral Home | Posted in: Willig Funeral Home & Crematory
On December 5th, 2025, God called home his faithful servant and daughter Nikki DeMarino, age 50 of Stahlstown, Pennsylvania. Born on November 14th, 1975 in McKeesport, PA, she was the daughter of Charlotte and Edward Valecko of Greenock, PA and the wife of Lieutenant Colonel (Retired) Otto DeMarino of McKeesport, PA.
Although her accomplishments were many, her greatest achievement was giving birth to her son, Otto Edward; almost single-handedly raising him to be the kind and gentle-hearted soul he is today. Her other major accomplishments were authoring the children’s book “Shrinking Beauty” and publically speaking out about the dangers of anorexia, a disease she suffered with and eventually overcame through the sheer strength, stubbornness and perseverance for which Nikki was known. She will forever be remembered for her loving, cheerful personality, her firm, generous hugs, her love for animals, her total faith in God and her unique (and sometimes dark) sense of humor! She will be sorely missed by all who were blessed to know her.
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December 07, 2025 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Mabel L. "May" Turkovic, 78, of Herminie 2, passed away Thursday, December 4, 2025 at Westmoreland Hospital in Greensburg. She was born June 22, 1947 in Pittsburgh and was the daughter of the late Charles and late Loretta (Reali) Roberts. She was the wife of the late John M. Turkovic and longtime partner of the late Rick Horvath.
Mabel worked many years for St. George Crystal in Grapeville, where she made numerous lasting friendships. She was a strong spirited woman with a unique personality, and embraced life in her own distinctive way. She loved her cats, gardening, riding her motorcycle/scooter, and wolves. Despite numerous health challenges, she always put her family first, and offered support whenever it was needed. She made an impact on everyone she met, and her legacy will live on through the many lives she touched.
"Mom, you are free from pain and there is nothing holding you back, now begin your journey until you welcome all of us home. " - Your loving family.
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December 06, 2025 |
By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory
George P. Apple Jr., age 97, of Elizabeth Twp., passed away Thursday, November 27, 2025 at Grandview Estates of Elizabeth. A Navy veteran, he retired after more than 40 years as a tool maker at Fisher Body. He was a member of UAW Local 544 and a former active member of St. Joachim and Anne Parish, St. Michael Church in Elizabeth Twp. Born December 19, 1927 in Elizabeth, he was a son of the late George P. Apple Sr. and Jean (Thompson) Apple and husband of 75 years of the late Cecelia (Kasmerski) Apple. He is survived by a daughter, Karen A. Henrich of South Park; sons, Dennis G. (Ginnie) Apple of Erie and Richard (Carol) Apple of Boalsburg; grandchildren, Lori, Jill, Scott and Jeffrey; great-grandchildren, Alexa, Shyan, Vincent, Jackson and Sabestian; also, nieces and nephews. Blessing and burial were private. Arrangements by the Paul E. Bekavac Funeral Home, Elizabeth. Offer condolences at www.bekavacfuneralhome.com
December 06, 2025 |
By Willig Funeral Home | Posted in: Willig Funeral Home & Crematory
Robert D. Davis, age 79, of McKeesport, died at home on November 28, 2025. Born July 6, 1946, in McKeesport, he was the son of the late James and Janie (Martin) Davis and the husband of Lillian (Mitchell) Davis for 33 years. Born and raised in a close-knit family, Robert had a remarkable gift for singing, often enchanting those around him with his beautiful voice. A devoted Steelers fan, Robert could usually be found donning his black and gold, cheering on his beloved team alongside friends and family. His enthusiasm for the game was infectious, fostering many memorable gatherings full of laughter and camaraderie. Above all, Robert was a family man. He cherished the time spent with his beloved wife, Lillian Davis, and his loved ones. His legendary ribs and chili were a staple at family gatherings, and they will always serve as a delicious reminder of his warmth and love.
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December 06, 2025 |
By Administrator | Posted in: William Snyder Funeral Home
Carol Lynn Pascarella, 69, of North Versailles, died Tuesday, November 25, 2025. She was born April 15, 1956 in Pittsburgh, a daughter of Joan M. (Paisley) Nicholls and the late Dale S. Nicholls and also preceded in death by her step-mother Nellie Nicholls. She was a retired secretary for Carnegie Mellon University and also had formerly worked at Rankin Forge. She was an active member of Linway Presbyterian Church where she served as treasurer, sang in the choir, played with the bell choir, and was a Sunday School teacher and deacon. She was president of PTA for several years, was an avid reader, and was the go to person in the family for genealogy. She is survived by her husband of 48 years Mark Pascarella; her son Anthony Pascarella and his wife Jacqueline; her grandsons Leo and Landon; her siblings Larry Nicholls and Debbie Ostapchenko; two half-brothers; and many nieces and nephews, Friends will be received from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, November 28, at the Forgie-Snyder Funeral Home, 1032 Broadway, East McKeesport. A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, November 29 in Linway Presbyterian Church, 600 Lincoln Hwy., North Versailles. Those attending the funeral service please go directly to the church. Interment will follow in Restland Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers a contribution can be made to the Multiple Sclerosis Society at nationalmssociety.org. For online condolences please visit www.snyderfuneralservices.com.
To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Carol Lynn Pascarella please visit our Sympathy Store.
December 06, 2025 |
By Administrator | Posted in: Robert A. Waters Funeral Home
Chevelle “Chevie” LaShon Robinson-Chambers, 53, of McKeesport, PA, was born on December 27, 1971 at McKeesport Hospital. She was the daughter of the late Lily Florene Robinson and the late Raymond “Fab” Browning. Throughout her youth, Chevelle was affectionately known as “Chevie" to all of those who knew and loved her. But once she joined the U.S. Navy, she determined that others would have to address her by the lovely name she was given at birth, Chevelle.
Chevelle attended and graduated from McKeesport High School in 1989. Not long after graduating, she enlisted in the U.S. Navy on September 5, 1989. After going through basic training, she was stationed on a naval ship at Oceana Naval Air Station in Virginia Beach, Virginia, where she was awarded the National Defense Service Medal. Chevelle proudly served her country for 4 years. Upon returning home she made the decision to pursue her dream of becoming a nurse. Chevelle initially attended Connelly Technical Institute of Nursing in 1997 and became a licensed practical nurse; then transferred to the Nursing program at the Shadyside School of Nursing and graduated in 2001, where she received a Registered Nurse Diploma. Chevelle began her career as she worked as a nurse at many hospitals, nursing homes and agencies.
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December 06, 2025 |
By Administrator | Posted in: Robert A. Waters Funeral Home
John Marcus Hughes, Jr. (AKA Sonny), was the youngest of four children born to John Marcus Hughes, Sr. and Juanita Hughes (Neenie). Sonny was born on December 8, 1950, in the McKeesport Hospital. Not only was he the youngest, but he was the only boy, preceded by sisters Betty, and Beverly. From the very beginning, Sonny was the family favorite not only to his sisters, but also to his mother Neenie.
Early on, Sonny showed an interest in the sport of fracturing furniture in the family home on Edith Street. In Order to stop the destruction, at Christmas, he was given football and baseball equipment. As they say, “the rest is history.” Even though Sonny excelled in baseball and basketball, football was the sport where he truly excelled. Playing football with the nationally renowned McKeesport Little Tigers propelled him into the public consciousness. From that beginning, playing running back and quarterback, he went on to become the most outstanding football player in Duquesne High School History, earning All-State Honors. Following his high school career, he elected to attend Ohio State University when he was personally recruited by the head coach of OSU, Woody Hayes.
While he did not win any Grammys while appearing in four Rose Bowls with Ohio State University, he did win the approval of several Tonys. Tony Dorsett, whom he hosted on a recruiting visit to Ohio State, went on to win the 1976 Heisman trophy while playing at Pitt, and Tony Dungey the first black coach to win a Super Bowl, and while playing quarterback for the University of Minnesota, was told not to test the Ohio State defensive backs Jack Tatum, Neil Colzie, and Sonny Hughes.
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December 06, 2025 |
By Administrator | Posted in: William Snyder Funeral Home
Kenneth E. Frye, 81, of North Huntingdon, passed away Monday, November 24, 2025 surrounded by family. He was born May 23, 1944 in Greensburg, a son of the late Kenneth E. and Pearl (Woodward) Frye, and in addition to his parents Ken was preceded in death by his sister Heidi A. Halvin and brother Mark C. Frye. He was a member of Immaculate Conception Church, Irwin, and the LOOM Lodge 236, Irwin. Ken is survived by his wife Mary C. Frye, son K.C. (Lynn) Frye of Doylestown, grand children Justin Frye, Michael Frye, and Daniel Frye, siblings Lorena (Earl) Richards of Marietta, Georgia, Joel (Sue) Frye of Savannah, Georgia, Scott (Sandy) Frye of Ligonier, and brother and sister in-law Robert and Pat Steimer of North Huntingdon. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Saturday, December 20, 2025, at Immaculate Conception Church, Irwin. Interment will follow in I.C. Cemetery. William Snyder Funeral Home, Inc., 521 Main Street, Irwin, 724-863-1200 is handling arrangements. Those wishing can make a memorial donation to Rescue 8 North Huntingdon EMS, 11259 Center Hwy, North Huntingdon, PA 15642. For online condolences please visit www.snyderfuneralservices.com .
To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Kenneth E. Frye please visit our Sympathy Store.
December 05, 2025 |
By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory
John Michael Arlia, age 79 of Clairton, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, December 3, 2025 at the H.J. Heinz II VA Center in Aspinwall. Born April 25, 1946 in McKeesport, he was a son of the late Domenico and Maria (Osso) Arlia. A U.S. Army Veteran of the Vietnam War, John worked for over 25 years with the Internal Revenue Service and before that, was a crane operator for U.S. Steel. He also was a first generation Italian-American Calabrese. John loved being an active alumnus of McKeesport High School as well as gardening, being a fifty-five year Steelers season ticket holder, and most of all being a proud Pap to his four grandchildren. He is survived by his wife Cecelia "CeCe" (Ross) Arlia; his children Michele Scott of St. Louis, MO and Peter (Richelle) Arlia of Ohio Twp., his grandchildren Jordan and Max Scott and Marco and Anthony Arlia, his brother Phillip (Evelyn) Arlia of Irwin, his brother and sister in-law John and Corrine Pfefferkorn of Clairton, and also nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, John was preceded in death by his brothers Peter and James Arlia.
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December 05, 2025 |
By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory
Richard Petrick, age 75, of McKeesport, passed away Wednesday, December 3, 2025 at Lakeview Personal Care in Darlington. He was a retired operating room attendant at Jefferson Hospital. He was a former avid runner, loved rock and folk music, and was an animal lover. Born August 21, 1950 in McKeesport, he was a son of the late Joseph C. and Margaret (Holland) Petrick Sr. He is survived by his wife of 31 years, Marda (Smith) Petrick; stepson, Lynn (Marcie) Wooley of Lehigh Acres, FL; grandchildren, Brittany (Gary) Jones of New Castle, Zachary Wooley of Harrisburg and Sarah Wooley of Vero Beach, FL; stepgranddaughter, Megan (Eric) Holzer of Pittsburgh; and close friend and caregiver, Diane Barbera. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by siblings, Daniel R. Petrick and Joseph C. Jr. and Sarah Petrick. Friends will be received in the Paul E. Bekavac Funeral Home, 221 North Second Avenue, Elizabeth, on Tuesday, December 9, 2025 from 10 AM until the time of blessing at 11 AM with Deacon Dale DiSanto officiating. Offer condolences at
http://www.bekavacfuneralhome.com.
December 05, 2025 |
By Strifflers Family Funeral Homes | Posted in: Strifflers Family Funeral Homes
Grace Ann Laird, age 81, of McKeesport, PA, passed away peacefully on Thursday, December 4, 2025. Born in Wilkensburg, PA on July 4, 1944, she was the cherished daughter of the late Clarence and Ann (Pupich) Vesely.
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