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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December 04, 2025 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Daniel Regis Majzer, 90, of Versailles, passed away on Wednesday, December 3, 2025. He was born July 14, 1935 in Port Vue and was the son of the late Theodore and Susan (Cverna) Majzer. He was the loving husband of 59 years to the late Marcella Jane (Dunn) Majzer, who passed away on June 28, 2017. Daniel was a US Army Veteran and graduated from McKeesport High School in 1953. He then started his career at US Steel National Tube in inventory, before being drafted in 1958 and stationed in Alabama. He worked in the personnel office scheduling soldiers when they came in to be stationed. He returned to US Steel to finish his 31 year career there. He was also a landscaper and coached baseball and softball games for 20 years at Port Vue, McKeesport and the Legion. He always wanted to be a sports announcer and was able to do that during his time as a coach. He had a passion and knowledge of sports. He attended Steelers games for over 30 years and was a member of the Dobre Shunka Fan Club. He attended a few Super Bowls and traveled to Cleveland, Cincinnati, Buffalo, Houston and New Orleans for games. His commitment to the Steelers also followed suit with his dedication to his faith and trust in God. He was very well organized and frugal, enjoyed listening to sports radio, gardening, yard work, reading, walking, excercising, carrying the groceries and helping the elderly. He was not a fan of politicians, lazy people and products not made in the USA. Some of his favorite sayings were; "Get the heck out of here, Cheese and crackers, and Money doesn't grow on trees." He took care of things, owning only 4 cars over 49 years and the same lawnmower for 30 years.
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December 04, 2025 |
By Wojciechowski Funeral Home | Posted in: Wojciechowski Funeral Home
Raymond A. Vavra, 71, died Nov. 18, 2025. He is the son of the late Albert and Theresa Vavra. He is survived by his children Nicole, Joann, Steven, Kimberly and John; and grandchildren Raeden, Airalyn, Jacob, Emma, Baylee, Alexis and Cameron. Ray proudly served in the US Marine Corp. Funeral arrangements by the Wojciechowski Funeral Home, Glassport.
December 04, 2025 |
By Strifflers Family Funeral Homes | Posted in: Strifflers Family Funeral Homes
Laurie Ann Molcany, age 56, of McKeesport, passed away on Wednesday, December 3, 2025. She was born in Duquesne, PA on December 14, 1968 and was the daughter of the late Carole Molcany.
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December 03, 2025 |
By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory
Faith Obusek Wilson, age 83 of Charleroi, passed away on Tuesday, December 2, 2025 at Riverside Care Center, McKeesport. Born March 22, 1942 in McKeesport, she was a daughter of the late Stanley and Hilda Slepecki. She is survived by her sons David (Dawn C.) Obusek of Ruffs Dale, Daniel Obusek of Yukon, Michael Obusek of Greenock, Robert W. (Stephanie) Obusek of Elizabeth, and many grandchildren and great grandchildren. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husbands George J. Obusek and Robert Wilson, brother Ronald Slepecki, and sister Nadine Wallace.
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December 03, 2025 |
By Maloy-Schleifer Funeral Home | Posted in: Maloy-Schleifer Funeral Home
Michael Deane Cox, of State College, Pa. Age 70, passed away unexpectedly from this life on November 9, 2025. Born on July 11, 1955 to the late Jay Deane Cox and Rosemarie (Russ) Cox in Washington, D.C. Michael is survived by his loving wife of 44 years, Marilyn “Lynne” Kertis-Cox and their son, Shawn Michael Roman, who were the center of his deepest devotion. He was a steady, guiding presence for his surviving brothers, Jeffrey Jay Cox and John Howard Cox, both of Silver Spring, Maryland, and his sister, Mary Suzanne Himmelberg (Theodore) of Mount Airy, Maryland. Being the eldest brother, Michael was someone they turned to throughout their lives, as he was always there with an open heart. Michael was a caring and loving uncle to his nieces, Angela Himmelberg of New York City, Erica Himmelberg of Mt. Airy, Maryland and Melissa (Robert) Hickey of Warrington, Pennsylvania. Michael’s cousins, great-niece, and great-nephews will also miss him dearly. Michael was preceded in death most recently by his sister-in-law, Marlene Marzoch, and is survived by her husband and his brother-in-law, Jerome Marzoch. Along with his family and extended family, Michael leaves behind many close friends who will miss him deeply.
As a young man in Maryland, Mike enjoyed playing youth baseball and football in the Wheaton Boys Club. As he excelled, he also played football and baseball for John F. Kennedy High School and baseball for Montgomery College. During the summers following high school and while attending Montgomery College and University of Maryland Mike played for the Montgomery County Baseball Association’s team, the Takoma Blue Sox, under legendary Coach Lee Jordan.
Mike combined his lifelong love and talent for sports with his gift for writing to begin his journalism career as a sports writer and editor for several newspapers in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area, including the Washington Star, the Montgomery County Sentinel, and the University of Maryland Diamondback. After a rewarding chapter in journalism, he brought his writing skills to public service, crafting press releases/speeches for government officials at the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Mike later found his professional home with Pfizer Pharmaceuticals, where he spent over 29 successful years in corporate management. During this time, he also supplemented his journalism degree with an MBA in Marketing from St. Joseph’s University.
Following his successful tenure at Pfizer, his experience in the corporate world and entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish his own professional business, Nittany Business Coaching. He also served as an adjunct professor at Penn State University. Up until his passing, Mike had dedicated the past 11 years to the American Management Association, NYC, as a facilitator. Mike’s gift for communication, passion for training and consulting, as well as his high energy, dedication, and altruistic nature made him a sought-after instructor for various courses. Throughout his long professional career the positive influence he had on his colleagues remain an enduring part of his legacy.
Much beyond his work, Michael’s life was enriched by his family, friends, and faith. He cherished time with loved ones, drawing joy and strength from the connections that shaped his life. Ocean City, Maryland was a favorite summer vacation place! Mike enjoyed making cherished memories and spending treasured time with family and friends. He had visited there every year since infancy! Mike and his son Shawn shared a love of sports. Throughout Shawn’s young life, Mike enjoyed coaching baseball, basketball, and Shawn’s career on various football teams. While Shawn was in Scouts, Mike volunteered at every opportunity. Other interests included cooking, reading, playing golf, and daily gym workouts. These brought energy, structure, and a welcome diversion throughout the years. Mike was a proud 3rd Degree member of the Knights of Columbus, Father O’Hanlon Council # 4678. Following his faith, he served as a CCD teacher at Our Lady of Victory Catholic Church. Michael’s faith, generosity, and love for his family leave a legacy that will endure.
A Funeral Mass will be held on
Tuesday December 16th , 2025, at 11:00AM.
Our Lady of Victory Catholic Church
820 Westerly Parkway
State College, Pa. 16801
Expressions of sympathy may be offered to the family at Beardsleyfuneralhome.com
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Michael’s name to The American Heart Association.
Local announcement provided by the MALOY-SCHLEIFER FUNERAL HOME, INC., 915 KENNEDY AVE., DUQUESNE, 412-466-3300, WILLIAM B. SCHLEIFER, SUPERVISOR, WILLIAM BRIAN SCHLEIFER AND ALLAN J. WEBER, FUNERAL DIRECTORS.
December 03, 2025 |
By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory
William P. Brown, age 88 of Elizabeth Twp., passed away Wednesday, December 3, 2025 in Jefferson Hospital. A Navy veteran, he retired as an electrician at U.S. Steel Clairton Works and was a former member of Bethesda United Presbyterian Church in Elizabeth. He was a life member of the American Motorcycle Association, Blaine Hill Volunteer Fire Co. and Elrama Sportsmen’s Club, a social member of the Elizabeth Borough Volunteer Fire Co., and a member of Masonic Omni Lodge 582 in Dravosburg. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping and motorcycling. Born November 11, 1937 in McKeesport, he was a son of the late Albert E. and Virginia (Campbell) Brown. He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Dolores G. (Grace) Brown; daughters, Virginia and Beverley Brown, both of Kansas City, MO; sister, Virginia “Deane” Taricco of Rolling Hills, CA; brother, Thomas P. (Bernadette) Brown of Rancho Palace Verdes, CA; sister-in-law, Helen Brown of Whitehall; also, nieces, nephews and great-nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Albert C. Brown. Friends will be received in the Paul E. Bekavac Funeral Home, 221 North Second Avenue, Elizabeth, on Saturday, December 6, 2025 from 2-5 PM. A funeral service in the funeral home chapel will be Monday, December 8, 2025 at 10 AM with the Rev. Ronald Calabro officiating. Burial will follow in Round Hill Cemetery, Elizabeth Twp. Offer condolences at
http://www.bekavacfuneralhome.com.
December 03, 2025 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Sean Edward Koon, 53, of Port Vue passed away Tuesday, December 2, 2025. He was born November 23, 1972 in McKeesport and is the son of Charles Gordon and Sharon Lynn (Sanner) Koon. Sean worked for CVS Call Center as a customer service representative for numerous years. However, he had a passion for all things nerd - Star Wars, video games, superheroes, movies, and even a deep love for football. For the past 10 years, his interest sparked the creation of a podcast called "The Pittsburgh Nerd" that he, and his cousin, Ian, worked on together. He had a wealth of knowledge and collective information about any topic that captivated his targeted audience each time. In addition to his parents, Charles & Sharon, Sean is survived by his sister, Traci Koon of Port Vue; his niece & goddaughter, Mayah Taylor Koon; his nephew, Jordan Thomas Phillips; his cousin by blood, brother by choice, Ian (Lisa) Bellamy; and by nieces Ana, Bri, and Elliot. Sean is preceded in death by his brother, Thomas Gordon Koon. There are no services at this time. Arrangements are by the Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 6028 Smithfield Street, Boston, Elizabeth Township. (412) 751-5000 Drew J. Gilbert, director. Inurnment will take place at West Newton Cemetery at a later date. Condolences can be made at Gilbertfuneralhomeandcrematory.com
December 02, 2025 |
By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory
Karen Lynn (Oates) Kaufman, age 79, of Elrama passed away suddenly on Monday, December 1, 2025, in AHN Jefferson Hospital surrounded by family. Karen was a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Monongahela where over the course of 60 years she served as elder, deacon, and trustee and was a vacation bible schoolteacher. Since 2020 she attended the Elrama Community Church and loved her church family. She was a former member of the White Shrine, and a Women of the Moose, Finleyville. She was a proud member and class secretary to the Monongahela High School Class of 1964. Karen found a reason to smile every day and wanted to share that smile with everyone she met. The Village of Elrama will never be quite the same. Born February 26, 1946, she was the youngest daughter of the late William B. and Bernice (Powell) Oates. In April of 1965 she married Dale E. “Bucky” Kaufman who passed away in January of 2012. She was embraced and loved by the entire Kaufman family. She is survived by her children, Dianna L. Kaufman, Richard E. (Libby) Kaufman and Colleen K. (Brian) Fulkerson. Four Grandchildren who she loved with all her heart and was so extremely proud of: Anna Kaufman, Morgan Kaufman, Lila Fulkerson and #44 Crosby Fulkerson. Her sister, Marion (Bud) Segursky of Monongahela, and her very best friend Becky (Allen) Girdler of Eubank, KY; sister-in-law, Frances Kaufman of Houston, TX and many nieces and nephews. She also loved, like her own children, Jim (Karen) Chisholm and Nicole (Bill) Reilley Dosey. In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by her brother, William A. Oates, and companion, Ron Dunbar who we lost in August of 2023. Karen felt very blessed to have so many friends to laugh with and love and we were all so fortunate to have her in our lives. Friends will be received in the Paul E. Bekavac Funeral Home, Elizabeth, on Friday, December 5, 2025, from 2-8PM. A funeral service will take place on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at 10AM in the funeral home chapel with Pastor Jude Urso officiating. Burial to follow in Round Hill Cemetery, Elizabeth Twp. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her honor to the Elrama Community Church, 19 Ramage Avenue, Elrama, PA 15038. Offer condolences at www.bekavacfuneralhome.com
December 02, 2025 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Serena Onofrey, age 95, of North Huntingdon passed away peacefully on December 1, 2025. Serena was born on August 29, 1930, in West Mifflin, PA and graduated from Duquesne High School. She studied at the American Conservatory of Music in Chicago and became an accomplished Opera singer performing in the Chicago Opera Company and the Pittsburgh Opera Company. She was a devout member of St. Agnes Church in North Huntingdon where she was a member of Christian Mothers and the Choir, which the parishioners enjoyed. Serena had a special devotion to St. Therese, The Little Flower, and was a member of the Secular Carmelites of Latrobe. She is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Joseph, of 65 years. They were an example of lasting love, holding hands throughout their beautiful marriage. Her parents and brother were Michael, Helen and Eugene Svirbely. Serena is survived by her son Robert Onofrey and his wife, Laurie of McKinney, Texas; daughter Karen Dvorsky of Jeannette; daughter Gail Karanovich and her husband Kurt of Greensburg; son, Roy Onofrey and his wife Leslye of Washington, PA. She also has 12 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. Serena found great joy in spending time in her yard attending to her beautiful plants and flowers. We'd like to thank Redstone Highlands Memory Care Staff and Hospice for their dedication and hard work. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Association, Greater Pennsylvania Chapter 3544 N. Progress Ave, Suite 205, Harrisburg, PA 17110-9638 or to Carmel of the Assumption 5206 Center Drive Latrobe, PA 15650. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Saturday at 10:00 a.m. in St. Agnes Church. Please go directly to the church. Interment to follow in New St. Joseph Cemetery, North Versailles. JAMES W. SHIRLEY FUNERAL HOME in charge of arrangements, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
December 02, 2025 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Joseph Anthony Cuda, 92, of Glassport, passed away peacefully on Monday, December 1, 2025. He was born June 18, 1933 in Pittsburgh and was the son the late Anthony and Elsie (Mirenna) Cuda. Joseph was the husband of 59 years to the late Mary June Cuda, who passed away November 5, 2014. Joseph was the owner of numerous South Hills bakeries. He was the best baker in Southwestern Pennsylvania and even won awards in France for his Danish pastries. He was a master baker in his field. He will be greatly missed.
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December 02, 2025 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Virginia S. Wilson, age 75 of Mt. Pleasant, formerly of Westmoreland City, passed away on December 1, 2025 at Redstone Highlands in Greensburg. She was born on September 4, 1950 in McClellandtown, PA, a daughter of the late Carl and Arnetta (Dick) Shaffer. Virginia was a member of the Norwin Alliance Church where she served as the church organist, pianist, and Sunday school teacher. She was an avid reader and writer, and she enjoyed crossword puzzles. She also had an international collection of elephants. Prior to her retirement, Virginia was employed as a CNA by Redstone Highlands. She was preceded in death by her son, Merle Jason Wilson, a daughter, Sarah Villinger, and her brother, David Shaffer (wife Carol). She is survived by her beloved husband, Merle Wilson, three daughters, Elizabeth Lorince (husband Christopher), Rachel Wilson and Karen Lake (husband Ricky), son-in-law, Jamie Villinger, a niece, Linda Flournoy, and 10 grandchildren, Madalein Lorince, Grace Lorince, Paige Lorince, Ariel Lake, Savannah Lake, Sadie Lake, Riley Villinger, Alyssa Villinger, Elena Villinger, and Asher Villinger. Friends will be received at the JAMES W. SHIRLEY FUNERAL HOME, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon on Sunday from 2 PM to 8 PM. Additional visitation will take place at 10 AM on Monday at Norwin Alliance Church, 10585 Farview Drive, North Huntingdon, PA 15642, followed by a service at 11 AM. PLEASE GO DIRECTLY TO THE CHURCH. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given in Virginia's name to the Norwin Alliance Church or Samaritan’s Purse. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
December 02, 2025 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home
Michael K. Ireland, age 59 of Ardara, passed away on December 1, 2025. He was born on November 1, 1966 in Braddock, a son of the late John Ireland and Eileen Kelly Ireland. Michael was a graduate of Norwin High School in the class of 1985. He belonged to St. Jude the Apostle Church in Wilmerding, and he was an Eagle Scout in Boy Scout Troop 298. Prior to his retirement, he was employed as a Corrections Officer at the Allegheny County Prison. Michael was an avid outdoorsman who loved to hunt and target shoot. He enjoyed bonfires with friends and family, and he was always able to fix things that were broken. In his free time, Michael looked forward to watching football games, especially the Steelers. He loved Mopar cars, and took pride in his 1969 Charger and 2023 Challenger. He was also known for his robust knowledge of history. Michael is survived by two brothers, his twin John Ireland (wife Pam), and Christopher Ireland, and one sister, Laura Marchand (husband Patrick). He had numerous nieces and nephews, and great nieces and nephews, and was known affectionately by many as simply "Uncle Mike". Friends will be received at the JAMES W. SHIRLEY FUNERAL HOME, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon, on Thursday from 2 to 4 PM and 6 to 8 PM, and Friday from 2 to 4 PM and 6 to 8 PM. A funeral Mass will take place in St. Jude the Apostle Church, 405 Westinghouse Ave, Wilmerding, PA 15148, on Saturday at 10 AM. PLEASE GO DIRECTLY TO THE CHURCH. Interment will follow in St. Joseph Cemetery in North Versailles. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be given in Michael's name to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Scouting America (formerly the Boy Scouts of America), or the Wounded Warrior Project. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
