Richard Wagner, 70, of Center Township, passed away unexpectedly in his home on December 14th, 2024.

He was born on February 16th, 1954, the beloved son of the late William J. Wagner and Stella (Gentile) Wagner. He is survived by his three daughters, Rachel Vixman, Hayley Wagner, and Lyndsey Wagner; his brother and sister, William D. Wagner and Susan Wagner, his niece and nephew, Danielle and Branden Thornton and his six grandchildren: Marley Vixman, Emma Vixman, Olivia Vixman, Leah Vixman, Kali Unis, and Frankie Unis.

Richard had a lifelong passion for the outdoors, whether it was going on nature walks, tending to his garden, berry picking, or hunting for arrowheads. He also enjoyed traveling and sharing stories of his many adventures. He had a way of making everyone laugh with his big personality and could always be recognized by his distinctive whistle, making him a truly memorable presence in the lives of all who knew him.

Richard was a retired union worker and a proud member of several clubs.

A celebration of life will be held for him in the spring. Arrangements have been entrusted to the branch of Gabauer Funeral Homes.

Barbara Louise Houser, 95, of Hopewell, passed away on December 16th, 2024 in her home. She was born in Ford City, Pennsylvania on August 4th, 1929, a daughter of the late Marvin and Frances Carberry. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her second husband, the Rev. J. Ray Houser, three children, an infant son, Susan Elaine Johnston and Christopher Andrew Weis, as well as two great granddaughters, Audree Johnston and Kinlee Brinn Johnston. She is survived by two sons and daughters in law: Bruce Alan (Tsuyako Sandy Dunn) Weis and Mark Edward (Marye) Weis, three step children, Jill Houser, Patsy Houser and Martin (Susan) Houser and eleven grandchildren: Richard Gregory, Kimberly (Kristofer) Grohl, Kristopher (Joannie) Gregory, Patrick Edenfield, Arthur (Amanda) Johnston, John (Paige) Johnston, Monica (Chance) Braud, and Edwin “Buddy” (Ashley) Covalt, Benjamin Houser, Amelia Houser and Mei Houser; fifteen great-grandchildren, a sister Joan Ludwig, and a nephew Paul Goode.

Barbara had been a registered nurse, graduating from the West Penn School of Nursing, and worked for many years at VA Hospitals in Butler and Pittsburgh, as well as with the Pennsylvania State Hospital system. Her life blossomed following her retirement. She traveled extensively, at first by herself then with her second husband, the Rev. J. Ray “Jack” Houser. Barbara and Jack cruised and traveled widely, to Norway, Greece, the middle east and destinations in Europe. A born volunteer, Barbara often delivered meals to people younger than herself in her 24 years with Meals on Wheels. She was a member of Prince of Peace Anglican Church and led the Alter Guild there for many years. She was an avid reader, preferring English mysteries, and claimed to feel happiest reading two newspapers in a sitting. In reality, she never ceased trying to help others or making others feel better about themselves.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 11th, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. in the Huntsman Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Aliquippa. In lieu of flowers, Barbara requested that donations be made to the Hopewell Volunteer Fire Department or Prince of Peace Anglican Church.

Richard Anthony Suhayda, 81, of Center Township, passed away on December 30th, 2024.
He was born in Rochester on May 23rd, 1943, the son of the late Anthony and Jean (Moehrle) Suhayda. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife Annette (Yacopino) Suhayda, their son Richard Anthony Suhayda, Jr. and a grandson Gabriel Suhayda. He is survived by two beloved sons and daughters-in-law: Michael J. and Christine R. Suhayda, Gregory J. and Nicole Suhayda, three grandchildren, who Rich was immensely proud of: Paige Suhayda and her fiancée, Dillon Kmetz and Olivia Grace and Dominic Suhayda. He is also survived by a cherished sister and brother-in-law Joyce and Leon Klingensmith, two nieces and two nephews: Leigh Ann, Eric, Richie, and Richelle; along with numerous great nieces, great nephews.
Richard was a member of Mary Queen of Saints Parish and was very devoted to his catholic faith. Faithfully, he attended Saturday Mass at Saint Frances Cabrini of Aliquippa with his grandson Dominic.
He was drafted during the Vietnam war and was stationed in Germany, honorably serving our country in the U.S. Army.
Rich formerly was employed with J&L Steelworks. Upon his commencement with the steel industry, he gained employment with the former US Airways Airline working as a mechanic. He also drove a school bus for Aliquippa School District.
Rich’s love for his family was deep and it shined brightly when he would watch his grandson playing in the high school band and taking his grandson Dom trap shooting. He enjoyed going to the Bucktails range with his grandson and his company was equally enjoyed by the members of the club who bestowed to Rich an honorary membership. He was also equally involved with the events for Special Olympics supporting his granddaughter, Olivia. He was also an avid golfer and made wonderful memories with friends on the golf course.
Visitation will be on Friday, January 3rd, 2025 from 3-7 pm in the Anthony Mastrofrancesco Funeral Home Inc. 2026 McMinn Street, Aliquippa. Departing prayers will begin at 9:15 am in the funeral home on Saturday, January 4th, 2025 followed by a Mass of Christian burial at 10:00 am in St. Frances Cabrini Church of Aliquippa. Interment will follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery. Beaver County Special Unit will provide military honors at the cemetery.

Dennis ‘Denny Ray’ Kretzler, 71, passed away on December 30th, 2024, following a brief illness. He was born in Beaver on December 9th, 1953, a son of the late Raymond and Ruth Kretzler. He is survived by his devoted wife of 35 years, L. Michelle Kretzler, his brother Jay (Susan) Kretzler, his nieces and nephews: Katharine (Rob) Struck, Jaclynn Kretzler, Philip Kretzler and Steven (Amy) Kretzler, along with many grandnieces and grandnephews and his cats, Ella and The Bean.

Dennis graduated from Beaver Area High School and Cal State University, he went on to teach Industrial Arts at his high school alma mater.  A gifted craftsman and dedicated educator, Mr. K. was beloved by students and faculty alike.  A lover of fishing, fireworks, firearms, and spending time with friends, he will always be remembered for his sweet smile and sunny disposition.  A longtime resident of New Brighton, his vegetable garden was admired by many who passed by on Third Avenue.

Friends and family will be received Friday, January 3, 2025, from 4 to 7 p.m. in the J & J Spratt Funeral Home, 1612 Third Avenue, New Brighton.

Heartfelt thanks goes out to the kind and compassionate staff at Heritage Valley Beaver.  Memorial contributions in Den’s name may be sent to The Beaver County Humane Society, 3394 Brodhead Road, Aliquippa, Pa, 15001.