Author: Beaver County Radio

Duquesne Light Company Rallies to Aid Power Restoration Efforts Amid Hurricane Milton

Duquesne Light Company (DLC) has dispatched crews to Florida’s Gulf Coast to assist Duke Energy in restoring power to those affected by Hurricane Milton. As of Wednesday, Oct. 9, 65 crew members, including lineworkers, mechanics, safety representatives and other staff members, have been deployed and are currently stationed in Davenport, Florida. An additional 15 underground crew and staff members will depart Pittsburgh tomorrow, Oct. 10, for the Clearwater area.
DLC crews have been on the road assisting with storm restoration efforts since Sept. 27. Most recently, crews helped restore power to residents in Virginia after Hurricane Helene left significant damage in the Appalachian region.

Former City of Pittsburgh Building Inspector Sentenced for Accepting Bribes from Developer

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to  18 months of probation, including 90 days of home confinement, a $1,375 forfeiture, and a $1,500  fine on his conviction for bribery, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today. 

Chief United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence on Walter Eiseman, 59.  

According to information provided to the Court, Eiseman was a building inspector for the  City of Pittsburgh, where he was responsible for performing inspections of properties that were the  subject of applications for certificates of occupancy. In 2018, a developer was working on a project  to redevelop a commercial building in downtown Pittsburgh as luxury apartments and hotel rooms.  As part of the financing for the project, the developer sought a historical tax credit, which would  only be granted after the developer obtained a temporary certificate of occupancy for one of the  project’s floors by the end of December 2018. As part of his guilty plea, Eiseman admitted  performing inspections on two floors of the project during the month of December, which resulted  in a temporary certificate of occupancy being issued. In return for such official action, Eiseman  accepted home appliances from the developer, which were delivered in early January 2019. Eiseman  also admitted that he solicited a set of kitchen cabinets from the developer, which were ordered but  ultimately not delivered to Eiseman’s residence.  

Assistant United States Attorney Jeffrey R. Bengel prosecuted this case on behalf of the  government. 

U.S. Attorney Olshan commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation for the investigation  that led to the successful prosecution of Eiseman. 

Former Ambridge Water Authority Manager Pleads Guilty to Defrauding Utility of More Than $1 Million

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Aliquippa, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court on  October 8, 2024, to a charge of mail fraud, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced  today. 

Michael Dominick, 44, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge  Cathy Bissoon. 

In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that Dominick, a former manager  at the Ambridge Water Authority (AWA), defrauded AWA of money and property totaling  approximately $1,073,185 during the period of January 2020 through August 2022. As manager of  AWA, Dominick was responsible for overseeing all daily business and financial activity and thus  had access to AWA’s bank accounts and cash and check payments made to AWA for water and  related services. Dominick admitted that he secretly diverted AWA’s money into his own personal bank accounts by writing checks to himself, depositing cash and checks issued to AWA into his  personal bank accounts, using an AWA debit card to make purchases of personal items, and  adjusting or failing to report the true location of AWA’s funds on critical financial records.  

“Michael Dominick’s theft of more than a million dollars from the Ambridge Water  Authority is an alarming violation of the public trust,” said U.S. Attorney Olshan. “Those who  hold positions of authority at any level of government—and particularly those who are responsible  for managing and safeguarding public finances—owe a special duty to act in the best interest of  their employer and the community. Our office and our partners in law enforcement will continue  to root out and hold accountable public officials who violate federal law and undermine public  confidence in government.” 

“This plea marks a significant step toward justice,” said FBI Pittsburgh Special Agent in  Charge Kevin Rojek. “This fraud not only affects critical public resources, but also represents a  betrayal of public trust. The AWA exists to provide an essential resource to our community.  Stealing money in this manner has the potential to directly impact the well-being of tens of  thousands of people.”

Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for February 20, 2025. The law provides for a total  sentence of up to 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or both. Under the federal  Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. 

Assistant United States Attorney Carolyn J. Bloch is prosecuting this case on behalf of the  government. 

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and Beaver County District Attorney’s Office  conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Dominick. 

Mary Lucille Campbell King (Passed on October 8th, 2024)

Mary Lucille Campbell King, 79, of Monaca, passed away on October 8th, 2024 surrounded by family and loved ones.

She was born in Ogden, Utah, a daughter of the late Mabel Hartman Campbell and B. Gael Campbell. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, Joel Campbell. She is survived by her dear husband of sixty years, Thomas J. King, of Monaca; her children, Thomas J. (Tanya) King Jr. of Seattle, Nicole M. (Joseph) Long of Rochester, Brett A. King of West Virginia, Tara L. (Robert) Propst of Center Township, grandchildren: Eli J. King, Tyler Long, Dakota Long, Chase Long, Hunter Long, Brandon King, Dante King, Fionna Morehouse; great-grandchildren, Alessi and Elliot, two brothers, Leland Thomas, Douglas Campbell, and five sisters: Georgia Barker, Judith Rambo, Colette Dayton, Diane Stott, and Dorothy Lewis.

She faithfully and tremendously loved and served her family and so many others throughout her life and enjoyed her association with each one.

She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, sister, and outstanding friend.

Mary was a faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and had a firm undeniable testimony of her Savior. She served in many callings in the Church and sincerely loved those whom she taught, served, and associated with throughout the years.

She could light up a room with her smile and warmth. She brought joy to others and was loved by many throughout her life. She will be deeply missed and continually loved.

Friends will be received on Friday, October 11th from 3-6 p.m. at Simpson Funeral and Cremation Services, 1119 Washington Avenue, Monaca. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, October 12th at 11 a.m. at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 114 Church Drive, Monaca. Entombment will follow in Beaver Cemetery Mausoleum.

To share online condolences, view Mary’s video tribute, add photos and get directions, please visit www.simpsonfuneralhome.com.

Leola E. Bruce (Passed on October 8, 2024)

Leola E. ‘Punk’ Bruce, 90 of Center Township passed away on October 8, 2024, at Allegheny General Hospital of Pittsburgh.

She was born in Monaca and was preceded in death by her beloved parents, John M. and Leola Winkle and her cherished husband of 60 years, Francis Bruce, with whom she exchanged vows on November 6, 1954, at Van Kirk Lutheran Church, a place that would remain close to her heart throughout her life. She was also preceded in death by her grandson, Bill Suskie, her sisters, Evelyn ‘Tess’ Salasky, Ruth ‘Bid’ Stewart, and her brothers, Edward and Ronald Winkle.

She is survived by her four children, Michael Bruce of Center Township, Terry (Tim) Zdrale of Montrose, Colorado, Martin Bruce of Center Township, and Doreen (Steve) Martin of Parkersburg, West Virginia. She was a proud grandmother to Leah Walter, Michael Bruce, Matthew Martin, Crystal Ulbright, and Daniel Martin, and a great-grandmother to seven great-grandchildren.

She was an excellent cook and baker, known for her delicious recipes that often became the centerpiece of family gatherings. Her love for card games, particularly 500 Bid, was well-known among her close-knit group of card club lady friends, with whom she shared many evenings. A lifelong member of Van Kirk Lutheran Church, her faith was an integral part of who she was. Her commitment to her community was evident in her service as a lifelong member of the Center Township #3 VFD Ladies Auxiliary.

She enjoyed playing bingo and visiting with her extended family of bingo friends from the Monaca Turners, Holy Family in New Brighton, and Center Stage. One of her most cherished pastimes was creating beautiful afghans, which she lovingly crafted for numerous family members. Each stitch was a testament to her desire to keep her loved ones warm in both body and spirit.

Friends will be received on Thursday, October 10th from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. at Simpson Funeral and Cremation Services, 1119 Washington Avenue, Monaca, where funeral services will be held on Friday, October 11th at 11 a.m., with Pastor Michael Sourwine officiating. Burial will take place in Union Cemetery of Monaca at a later date.

The family has suggested memorial contributions be made in Leola’s memory, if desired, to Van Kirk Lutheran Church, 106 Van Kirk Road, Monaca or the Center Township VFD #3, 110 Van Kirk Road, Monaca, PA 15061.

To share online condolences, view Leola’s video tribute, add photos, or get directions, please visit www.simpsonfuneralhome.com.

Bonnie L. Goehring (Passed on October 7, 2024)

Bonnie L. Goehring, of Darlington, passed away unexpectedly on October 7, 2024. She was born in Beaver Falls, the daughter of the late Kenneth M. and Fern M. DeLuca. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother Greg “Skully” DeLuca. She is survived by her husband of 60 years, Carl W. Goehring, her studly son Matt, her favorite son Steve (Paula), her darling daughter Kay (Dan) Brockett, her grandchildren: Ashley, Scott, Chris, Wesley, Jenny (John) Mlynarski, Taylor, Morgan, Abby and David Brockett; her great grandson Matty, her brother Keith (Barbara) DeLuca and sister-in-law Mary DeLuca.

Bonnie was a kind, generous wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother.  Anyone who knew her also knew how fiercely she loved her family.  She was extremely proud to be a grandmother and great grandmother.  She was never happier than when she had a kitchen full of family and friends. She held many different jobs, but her favorites were auctions and driving a school bus. Bonnie enjoyed volunteering for 4-H and the Darlington Presbyterian church. She previously served on school board.  She was willing to help do anything and everything for those who asked.

Friends will be received on Friday, October 11, from 1-3 p.m. and 5 p.m. until the time of the service at 7 p.m. at Corless-Kunselman Funeral Services, LLC, 3801 4th Avenue, Beaver Falls.

June M. Deane (1935-2024)

June M. Deane, 89, of Brighton Township, passed away on October 8, 2024 at her home with her daughter and son-in-law at her side.
She was born on June 1, 1935 in Butler, a daughter of the late Anthony and Leonna Gregory. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband Robert J. Deane. She is survived by her devoted daughter and son in law, Tracey and Wayne Walters of Brighton Township.

June had been a faithful member of Saints Peter and Paul Roman Catholic Church of Our Lady of the Valley Parish.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, October 13th at 10:00 a.m. at Saints Peter and Paul Roman Catholic Church of Beaver. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Noll Funeral Home, Inc., 333 Third Street, Beaver.
Private interment will take place at Beaver Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made if desired to the Angel Fund of SS Peter and Paul Church, East End Avenue, Beaver, PA 15009.

Ethel Jane Hopkin Gyory (1925-2024)

Ethel Jane Hopkin Gyory, 99, of Allison Park, passed away on October 8, 2024. She was born on August 24, 1925, in Sewickley Township, the daughter of the late Benjamin and Mary Bullock Hopkin. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, John Edward and her brothers, Benjamin, Rowan Dean, James, and Wendel Hopkin. She is survived by her son, John Richard (Lisa) Gyory, of Sudbury, Massachusetts, daughter, Sandie (Paul) Gyory-Seiferth of Allison Park, Pennsylvania, grandchildren: Matthew (Crystal) Seiferth, Dr. Michael (Julie) Seiferth, Dr. Jonathan Seiferth, Samuel Gyory, Nathaniel Gyory, and Danielle Gyory; and her great-grandchildren, Addison Jane Seiferth and Eisley Virginia Seiferth.

Ethel was a former member of the Holy Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church of Beaver, and worked as a secretary for Westinghouse of East McKeesport, and later worked as a manager for Hornes Department Store, at the Beaver Valley Mall. She also was a member of various church women’s groups, and card clubs with her neighborhood women. No task was beyond Ethel’s capabilities, she additionally was a seamstress, regularly altering clothing and sewing for neighbors and family members.
Friends will be received on Saturday, October 12, in the Noll Funeral Home Inc., 333 Third Street, Beaver, from 4 p.m. until the time of service at 6 p.m. Online condolences may be shared at www.nollfuneral.com.
Memorial Contributions may be shared in Ethel’s name to Bridges Hospice, 4130 Monroeville Blvd, Monroeville, PA 15146.

Karen Maderia (1939-2024)

Karen Maderia, 85, of Beaver, passed away on October 5, 2024, after a long battle with dementia.
She was born on September 5, 1939, in Freedom, the daughter of the late Frank and Dorothy Azzarello.In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her first husband, Michael Jay Hoban, second husband, Fran Maderia and her daughter, Kathy Hoban. She is survived by her son, Michael (Theresa Sullivan) Hoban, her daughter, Patty (Andy) Valero, sisters, Shirley Hacko and Rose DiMuccio, grandchildren: Jordon Popp, Kari Couch, Jamie Popp, Kristen Blume, Maxwell Reed, Madeline Hoban, Nolan Valero, and Keira Valero; her great-grandchildren: Allison Popp, Jillian Popp, Luca Popp, Marco Popp, Joanna Popp, Riley Popp, Ahmeer Person, and Kahlena Reaves; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. Karen had worked for and retired from Phoenix Glass.
Friends will be received on Saturday, October 12, from 11 a.m. until the time of Blessing Service at 1 p.m. in the Noll Funeral Home Inc., 333 Third Street, Beaver. Online condolences may be shared at www.nollfuneral.com.

MaryAnn Paulauskas (1945-2024)

MaryAnn Paulauskas, 79, of Ohioville passed away on October 7, 2024 at Heritage Valley Beaver.

She was born on August 28, 1945, in Ambridge, the daughter of the late Chester and Mary (Chelak) Konitsney. In addition to her parents, MaryAnn was preceded in death by her loving husband, Stanley Paulauskas. She is survived by her children, Michael (Susan) Paulauskas and Christine (Chad) Zalenski, brothers, Chester (Judy) Konitsney and David (Patty) Konitsney, grandchildren, Anthony, Colin, Steven, Andrew, and Nicole, and several nieces, nephews, and great friends, who will forever hold their memories of her close to their hearts.

MaryAnn worked for many years at the Beaver Valley Medical Center. She loved to bake, bowl, play cards and spend time with her family and friends. In her later years she enjoyed visits to the farmer’s market, buying kulachis for her grandchildren, and making work for the nurses and aides at Lakeview harder than it should’ve been.

MaryAnn’s wishes for cremation and a private Blessing Service will be held.

The GABAUER-TODD FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES (Branch), 340 Third Street, Beaver, is honored to be assisting MaryAnn’s family through this very difficult time.