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.


Roland Curdell Johnson

June 30, 2022 |

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

Roland Curdell Johnson, 65, of Temple Hills, Maryland, was born May 31, 1957, in McKeesport, PA. He was the beloved son to the late Joseph and Barbara (Ruffin) Johnson. Roland departed this life on June 17, 2022 in Temple Hills, MD.

He was a graduate of Clairton High School and attended the University of Pittsburgh for a duration of time before exploring other career paths ultimately finding his footing in car sales. Roland worked as a Sales Manager for Waldorf Chevrolet Cadillac.

Roland enjoyed spending time playing his bass guitar, riding his motorcycle, and attending Steelers games, but would root for the Bengals when his cousin was on the field. While he had some personal struggles in his young adult life, he worked diligently to make amends and overcome his adversities. People who knew him will always remember him with a smile on his face and infinite knowledge about anything related to car sales and profits. Selling cars was his passion and it showed through his work ethic and easygoing nature about the business.

 
Read More


Michael Harsmanka, Sr.

June 30, 2022 |

By Finney Funeral Homes | Posted in: Finney Funeral Homes

Michael “Mike” Harsmanka, Sr., 82 of Clairton, formerly of Silver Springs, MD, passed into the loving arms of his Lord and Savior on Wednesday, June 29, 2022, at Jefferson Hospital. He was born in McKeesport onMay 18, 1940, to the late Wasel and Helena (Fedko) Harsmanka. Mike was the loving husband of 59 years to Pamela J. (Silbaugh) Harsmanka. He is survived by his wife Pamela, his son Michael (Monica Harcut) Harsmanka, Jr. of Waterford, CT, as well as daughters Michele (James) Bridges of Finleyville, Marla (Brinton) Goettel of Monongahela, Melissa (Jorge) Turbay of Clairton, and Marcy (Robert) McQuaide of Reserve Township. Further survivors include brothers Alex Harsmanka of CA, John Harsmanka of West Elizabeth, and sister Yena Ramos of Long Branch, NJ. Additional survivors include grandchildren Courtney (Daniel) Hayden of Belle Vernon, Hannah (Chad) Yerkey of Belle Vernon, Brinton (Lauren) Goettel of Pittsburgh, Morgan Goettel, McKenzie Goettel, Lydia Goettel, Abigail Goettel, all of Forward Township, Juliana Goettel and Sarah Bridges of Pittsburgh, and Suzanne Vareha of New Kensington. Great-grandchildren include Rebekah, Esther, Rachel, Danny, Brock, Ryley, and Ellie. Further survivors include many nieces and nephews. Mike was preceded in death by great-grandchild Elizabeth, brothers Adam and Charles Harsmanka, and sisters Natasha Kavic, Tana Siroki, and Stella DeRosa. He was a member of the Navy, active from 1959-1963, serving on the USS Boston and USS Springfield. He was also a member of the Miracle Ridge Baptist Church in Forward Township, as well as a 1960 graduate of Clairton High School. Mike enjoyed hunting, fishing, gardening, camping at Scottyland, football, being a carpenter for his grandchildren, watching Cowboy Western films, and completing word searches. He will be terribly missed by all who knew him. Family and friends will be received on Saturday, July 2, 2022, from 1-4 P.M. at S.M. FINNEY FUNERAL HOME, 432 N. 6th St, Clairton, PA 15025. A service will take place following the visitation at the funeral home. Inurnment will occur privately at the National Cemetery of the Alleghenies at a later date. Online condolences may be offered at www.finneyfuneralhome.com.

 


Margaret L. Tauber

June 30, 2022 |

By Finney Funeral Homes | Posted in: Finney Funeral Homes

Margaret L. “Dolly” Tauber, 91 of White Oak, formerly of Duquesne, passed away on Wednesday, June 29, 2022. She was born in Duquesne on April 12, 1931, to the late Michael and Anna (Petrick) Olexa. Dolly was the loving wife of 49 years to the late Richard E. Tauber, Sr. She was preceded in death by her husband Richard, brother Michael Olexa, Jr., sisters Anna Suhoski, Helen Dandar, and Mary Marciniec, and good friend Falco Sciulli. Dolly was a member of the former St. Angela Merici Church in White Oak as well as their Ladies of Charity. She was also a member of the Catholic Daughters of the Americas where she served as financial secretary. Dolly was also a past volunteer at Kane Regional of McKeesport, Auberle, McKeesport Hospital, McKeesport Meals on Wheels, and Palms Nursing Home. She enjoyed traveling, line dancing, crossword and jigsaw puzzles, as well as displaying a love for life in general. Dolly was previously employed by Dr. Carmine Durzo as an Orthodontic Assistant and Marraccini’s Supermarket in White Oak as a clerk. She is survived by her son Richard Tauber, Jr. of White Oak, Tim (Maggie) Tauber of Elizabeth Township, and daughter Judy (Bruce) Frost of Redondo Beach, California. Dolly is further survived by grandchildren Ivy (Christian) Tauber Godoy, Alder Herforth, Tara (Chris) Clark, Justin Tauber, and Daria (Jeremy) Matcho. Additional survivors include great-grandchildren Kael and Willow Herforth, Levi and Lily Clark, and Sioux Marchisio. Arrangements have been entrusted to S.M. FINNEY FUNERAL HOME, 432 N. 6th St, Clairton, PA 15025. A repast and mass will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to the Mary, Mother of God parish located at 1640 Fawcett St., White Oak, PA 15131. Online condolences may be offered at www.finneyfuneralhome.com

A funeral mass has been scheduled for Wednesday, July 13, 2022, at 10 am, taking place at St. Angela's Church at 1640 Fawcett Ave, White Oak, PA 15131. Interment will occur later at St. Hedwig's Cemetery.

 


James W. Kimberly

June 30, 2022 |

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

James W. Kimberly, 85, of West Newton passed away Tuesday June 28, 2022. He was born April 12, 1937 in West Newton and is the son of the late James V. and Matilda (Shuster) Kimberly. He was the husband to the late Julia (Vehouc) Kimberly, who passed away December 5, 2018. James worked many years for the GC Murphy Company within their warehouse running the forklifts. James, now a veteran, served in the United States Army guarding the wall in Berlin, Germany. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and spending time with his dog, Baby. James was also a lifetime member of the West Newton Sportman's Club. He is survived by his children, James (Jan) Kimberly of Fairbanks, Alaska, Rose (Nicholas) Ginter of Yukon, PA, Dale (Diane) Kimberly of Sutersville, PA, and Susan Kimberly of West Newton; grandchildren, Nikki, Jamie, & Jenna Kimberly, Angie & Tylor Kimberly, John Jr., & Jenna Kerlicker, and Nicholas Ginter; two great-grandchildren, Sean & Casey; and his brother, Richard Kimberly of Greensburg. In addition to his parents and wife, James is also preceded in death by his grandson, Christopher Ginter. The family has requested to keep all services private. Arrangements are by the Gilbert Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc. 6028 Smithfield Street, Boston, PA 15135. (412) 751-5000 Drew J. Gilbert, director. Condolences can be made at Gilbertfuneralhomeandcrematory.com

 


Jennifer “Jen” Leah Borgo

June 30, 2022 |

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

Jennifer “Jen” Leah Borgo, 41, of Virginia, formerly of Greensburg, passed away Saturday, June 25, 2022. She was born March 2, 1981, in Pittsburgh, daughter of Robert, Jr. and Roberta (Orendorff) Borgo of Greensburg, PA. Jen graduated from Hempfield Area High School, Class of 1999 and went on to earn her Bachelor degrees in both Political Science and Psychology from Penn State University. She also attended Duquesne School of Law and was known as a great debater. Her last position was a sales and marketing representative for a communications company. Jen loved entertaining the children of family and friends. She also enjoyed her previous positions with Family Behavioral Resources as Therapeutic Support Staff and Administrator for children with special needs. As an advocate for meaningful causes, she was a fundraiser for Autism Speaks. Prior to her relocation to Virginia, she was employed at The Firepit Wood Fired Grill in Irwin. She had a love for animals and liked pet sitting for others. Jen was often strong willed and her persistence, resilience, leadership, and organizational skills enabled her to be successful in all of her endeavors. Her thoughtfulness, kindness, and loving heart were apparent to all who knew her. Jen is survived by her fiancé, Scott May, Spotsylvania, VA; parents; brother, Robert Borgo III, Pittsburgh, PA; and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins. A private memorial service will be held in the James W. Shirley Funeral Home Chapel, Irwin, PA. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Humane Society of Westmoreland County or a charity of your choice. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com

 


John L. Ruhl

June 29, 2022 |

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

John L. Ruhl, age 97 of West Mifflin and formerly of the Wilson section of Clairton, passed away on Tuesday, June 28, 2022 in Forbes Hospital, Monroeville.  Born September 7, 1924 in Pittsburgh, he was a son of the late Edwin C. and Martha C. (Frietsch) Ruhl.  A member of Triumph of the Holy Cross Parish, Holy Spirit Church in West Mifflin, John worked for 38 years at US Steel, Clairton Works in the batteries, the hearth department, in plant protection, and finally going to plant safety.  He was also a member of a barber shop quartet in McKeesport, the Holy Spirit Parish choir, and a former member of the US Steelworkers Union and Plant Protection Local.  Besides his parents, John was preceded in death by his wife of 70 years, the late Helen P. (Dolansky) Ruhl, who passed away February 14, 2020, and his siblings Gloria Allerton and Phillip and Paul Ruhl.  He is survived by his children Mary Martha (Joseph) Yakubsin of Moon Twp., Patricia L. (Bill) Thomas of Valencia, John Ruhl, Jr. of California, and James A. (Donna) Ruhl of Liberty Borough; his twelve grandchildren J.R. (Grace) Yakubsin, Mary Beth (Lance) Baniecki, Matthew (Mary) Yakubsin, John (Kristen) Yakubsin, Karen (Dave) Harden, Mark (Mandy) Yakubsin, Jennifer Goldman, Bill (Jennifer) Thomas, Patti (Randy) Gomola, Alexandra (Tyler) Ellwood, Nicki (Dylan Papson) Ruhl, and Julianna Ruhl; his fifteen great-grandchildren; his sister Martha Mathews of Clairton; and also nieces and nephews.

 
Read More


Emil Ploskina

June 28, 2022 |

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

Emil  Ploskina, 89, of Liberty Boro, died on June 26, 2022, at the Kane Community Living Center. 
Born on February 22, 1933, in Liberty Boro, he was the son of the late George and Anna (Zustulka) Ploskina.
Emil retired from Kennywood Amusement Park in the Maintenance Department. He was a member of the Holy Family Polish National Catholic Church. 
Emil enjoyed Polka music and playing the harmonica. In his early years, he used to love going to the boat races in McKeesport with his brothers.
Emil is survived by his nieces and nephews; Gary (Debbie) Ploskina, Tommy (Maria) Ploskina, Janice (the late Jim) Kass,  Gloria Ploskina, Gregory (Lisa) Ploskina, Cindy (the late Manny) Stoupis, Michael (Irene) Ploskina, Stan (Maryann) Vitale, Andy (Judy) Vitale, Elizabeth Vitale, Mae Vitale, Marilyn (Dan) Beran and Wendy (Kurt) Blotzer.
In addition to his parents, Emil was preceded in death by his brothers; Mike, Paul, Peter, John, Andrew, and Charles Ploskina and sisters, Mary Tokar Mowrey and Helen Vitale Scott.
Mass of Christian Burial will be on July 16, 2022, at 9 a.m. at Holy Family Polish National Catholic Church.
Burial will be in McKeesport-Versailles Cemetery at a later date.
Condolences and memories may be shared at www.jaycox-jaworskifh.com
Memorial contributions are suggested to Holy Family Polish National Catholic Church.
Supervisor, Chris Odasso
 


Elaine Mays

June 28, 2022 |

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

Elaine Mays, 88, of North Huntingdon passed away Tuesday, June 28, 2022 at William Penn Care Center, Jeannette.  She was born October 25, 1933 in McKeesport, a daughter of the late Fred and Anna (Benson) Ohs.  She was a graduate of McKeesport High School Class of 1951 and worked for Immels Department Store in the cosmetics department.  Elaine was a long time member of The First United Methodist Church where she was a member of the Chancel Choir, Cathedral Bells and soloist for many years.  Painting had been a fun hobby and she was a member of the Norwin Art League.  She loved traveling to numerous countries with her loving husband.  In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her loving husband of 70 years, William Mays Jr. and son, Dale Mays.  She is survived by her daughter, Renee Martz and her husband, Robert; grandson, Brett Martz (Addie); granddaughter, Heather (Mike) Johnson; great-grandchildren, Emma, Mats, Baylor and Nash. Friends will be received from 3-7 p.m. on Thursday at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon, PA  15642.  A funeral service will be held on Friday at 11  a.m. in the First United Methodist Church of Irwin.  Interment to follow in Irwin Union Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the First United Methodist Church of Irwin.  www.shirleyfuneralhome.com

 


Angeline H. Drop

June 28, 2022 |

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

Angeline H. Drop, 103, of North Huntingdon, passed away Monday, June 27, 2022 at The Grove, N. Huntingdon. She was born, May 12, 1919 in Pleasant Valley, daughter of the late Thomas and Mary (Breznik) Milharsic. Angeline was owner and operator of Lake Lawn Park Par 3 and Mini Golf and a member of SNPJ Lodge 87. She was a good baker and an excellent seamstress and enjoyed Polka dancing. She was a kind and giving person who had a gentle heart and incredible patience. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, John Drop. She is survived by her daughters, Carol Radakovich and her husband, Daniel of North Huntingdon, and Karen Drop of Arizona; grandchildren, Leigh Radakovich of Irwin, Jon Radakovich of Washington DC, Nicole (Jay) Smith of Blacksburg, VA, Angie Smith of Philadelphia; beloved great-grandchildren, Nicolaus Aboud, Aden Torchia and Evan Smith. The family would like to give special thanks to Colleen and Stephanie from Suncrest Hospice for their compassionate care to Angeline. Services are private. Arrangements made by the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon, PA 15642. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com

 


Mark Thomas McDonald

June 27, 2022 |

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

Mark Thomas McDonald, age 63, of McKeesport, died on Saturday, June 25, 2022. He was born in St. Louis, MO on October 7, 1958 and is the son of the late Jack and Mary Bordt McDonald.

 
Read More


Edward R. Cherepko Sr.

June 27, 2022 |

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

Edward R. Cherepko Sr., age 71, of Elizabeth Twp., passed away on Friday, June 24, 2022 in the VA Hospital Healthcare System - University Drive Campus (Oakland). An Air Force veteran serving during the Vietnam War, he retired from the hot mill at US Steel Irvin Works. He was a member of the Pittsburgh Antique Bottle Club and enjoyed collecting Native American artifacts. He loved working and taking care of his home. Born September 26, 1950 in McKeesport, he was a son of the late Michael and Emma (Barnocki) Cherepko. He is survived by his children, Cristina (Jim) Ausburn of Port Vue, Edward (Rebecca) Cherepko Jr. of Lincoln Borough, Dawn Cherepko of Buena Vista and Penny (Jack) McCombs of Liberty Borough; grandchildren, Matthew, Deana, Jamie, Ashley, Anthony, Zachary and Edward R. III; sister, Elizabeth (Dale) Jolliffe of Dover, MA; brothers, Michael Cherepko and Thomas (Debbie) Cherepko, both of Elizabeth Twp.; close friend Cathy and many other close friends; also, nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins. Friends will be received in the Paul E. Bekavac Funeral Home, 221 North Second Avenue, Elizabeth on Thursday, June 30, 2022 from 1 PM until the time of Blessing at 3 PM with Deacon Dale DiSanto officiating. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the family. Offer condolences at www.bekavacfuneralhome.com.

 


Michael "Mikey" John Kiger, Jr.

June 27, 2022 |

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

Michael "Mikey" John Kiger, Jr., 39, of Versailles, passed away Monday, June 27, 2022 at home. He was born March 17, 1983 in Pittsburgh and was the son of Michael John (Debb) Kiger of Versailles and the late Maureen Joan (Szekeres) Kiger. Michael was a Welder and Boiler Maker. He enjoyed working on cars and loved to go boating and fishing. In addition to his father, he is survived by his aunt, Terry Lee (Paul) Burke of Elizabeth Township, uncle, John A. Kiger of Lincoln Borough, step-sister, Renatta Signorini of Greensburg, and many cousins and friends. A Celebration of Life Picnic will be held at a later date. Arrangements are by the Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 6028 Smithfield Street, Boston, Elizabeth Township. (412) 751-5000 Drew J. Gilbert, director. Condolences may be made at Gilbertfuneralhomeandcrematory.com

 


Donald A. "Donny" Chapman

June 27, 2022 |

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

Donald A. "Donny" Chapman, age 71, of Liberty Borough, died June 24, 2022, at UPMC McKeesport Hospital. Born January 21, 1951, in Pittsburgh, he was the son of the late Joseph and Josephine (Kumanchik) Chapman and the husband of Linda (Lerro) Chapman for 42 years.
Donny retired from Central Maintenance, where he retired as a supervisor. He was a US Navy veteran serving, on the USS Barney, during the Vietnam War. Donny was the vice-president and beloved member of the Liberty Borough Veterans Association. He enjoyed watching old westerns and the Sci-Fi channel, cards, cornhole, and playing many other games. Donny was also an animal lover, leaving behind his pet bird, "Loki."

 
Read More


Carolyn E. Verosky

June 27, 2022 |

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

Carolyn E. Verosky, 75, of North Huntingdon passed away Sunday, June 26, 2022 at UPMC East.  She was born March 11, 1947 in Braddock, a daughter of the late John U. and Mildred (Beilhart) Newton.  Carolyn was a member of Faith Bible Baptist Church and enjoyed cooking her children's favorite meals, going out to dinner with family and friends, visiting the casinos, and was a huge Steelers fan.  Carolyn loved her cat, Maxx and her, dog, Zoey and taking walks. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister, Murdeen Newton. She is survived by her sons, Jeffrey (Andrea) Verosky, Victor Verosky; daughter, Christine Verosky; brother, Ian Newton; sister, Catherine Costa; four grandchildren, Jessica Doty, Victoria Verosky, Alexandra Verosky and Olivia Verosky; great-grandchild, Avery; and ex-husband, Robert Verosky.  Friends will be received from 2-4 & 6-8 p.m. on Thursday at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon, PA.  A funeral service will take place on Friday at 10 a.m. in the funeral home chapel. Interment to follow in Ligonier Valley Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a pet charity of your choice.  www.shirleyfuneralhome.com

 


Sharon Lee Brysh

June 27, 2022 |

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

Sharon Lee Brysh, age 79, of McKeesport, passed away on Friday, June 24, 2022 with her son by her side. She was born in North Charleroi on December 18, 1942 and was the daughter of the late Harold Guy and Irene Monks Elder. A 1960 graduate of Bentleyville High School, she received an associate degree from Douglass Business School in Monessen. She was employed in the accounting office for Elsie Hillman, was a special needs van driver for Colonial Taxi where the kids affectionately called her "Cabbie". She also worked for Pittsburgh Regional Library Center and eventually retired as an Encoder with the United States Postal Service.

 
Read More