Category: Obituaries

John “Jack” R. Porter Jr. (1956-2026)

John “Jack” R. Porter Jr., 70, of Independence Township, passed away on March 28th, 2026, at UPMC Mercy Hospital, with his loving family by his side. He was born in Pittsburgh on February 16th, 1956, the son of the late John R. Porter Sr. and Joan Ekas. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his loving wife, Karen Porter, and his daughter, Rochelle Porter. He is survived by his loving son, John “J.J.” Porter (Gabriella Muoio), his aunt and uncle, Ed and Marie Kohar of Baden, his stepbrother, Brian (Kathy) Hans of Georgetown and his dear friends, Tony Blum, Carolyn Dunne, Valerie Tilson, and Michelle Pietrzak.He was also loved and remembered by the Sisters of Saint Joseph, along with numerous cousins and friends. Jack also had a special love for his pets: Troy, Crosby, Batman, Junior, and Betty Joe, who were truly part of his family.

John was a 1974 graduate of Moon High School, a 1976 graduate of Robert Morris University, and a 1977 graduate of the Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science. He faithfully served his community as a licensed funeral director for over 50 years, including 23 years at Derrick’s Funeral Home and 29 years at the John Syka Funeral Home Inc in Ambridge.

Friends will be received on Wednesday, April 1st from 2–4 P.M. and 6–8 P.M. in the John Syka Funeral Home Inc., 833 Kennedy Drive, Ambridge, who was in charge of his arrangements. Family and friends will also meet on Thursday, April 2nd in the Good Samaritan Catholic Church, 725 Glenwood Avenue, Ambridge, for a Funeral Service at 1:30 P.M. with Father Joe Carr officiating.  Interment will follow at Mt. Olivet Catholic Cemetery, 2186 Brodhead Road, Aliquippa.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the doctors and nurses at UPMC Mercy Hospital and his devoted traveling nurse Lea of Concordia Visiting Nurses. Finally, to all who provided care, comfort, and support during Jacks final journey.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of John “Jack” R. Porter, please visit the floral store of the John Syka Funeral Home, Inc. by clicking here.

Timothy Lee Sinclair (Passed on March 24th, 2026)

Timothy Lee Sinclair, 76, of Monaca, passed away on March 24th, 2026, at Park Center Rehab Center in Boardman, Ohio. He was the beloved son of the late Thomas and Virginia (Unrue) Sinclair. He was also preceded in death by his brother-in-law, Robert “Whitey” Whitehouse, and his nephew, Ronald T. Nichol. He is survived by his devoted girlfriend of 20 years, Pamela Bukta Dereta, and by Pamela’s daughters, Stephanie and Natalie, along with her grandchildren, Ava, Gianna, Cali, and Chase. He is also survived by his sisters, JoAnn (Ron) Nichol and Sue (Ed) Phillips, who shared in a lifetime of family memories, love, and support. He was a cherished uncle to Richard (Liz) Nichol of California, Michael K. Nichol of Florida, Jodi (Brent) Haller of Monaca, and their children Brooke and Payton, Carri (Rob) Gamache of Bedford, New Hampshire and their children: Alexa, Kasey, and Zachary, and Gini (Bob) Baustart; as well as their children Sydney and grandson Madison, and Leighton. He also leaves behind many cousins from the McCoy and Solomon families, along with countless friends and neighbors who will remember him fondly. Tim took great pride in being a loving uncle, and he was known for never forgetting a birthday. His thoughtful tradition of giving lottery tickets to those he loved became one of the many small but meaningful ways he showed he cared.

Timothy graduated from Monaca High School with their Class of 1967 and was proud of his school years and especially enjoyed playing football, and along the way, gained the nickname of “Harry Sinclair.” Following high school, he was drafted into the United States Army during the Vietnam War, where he served honorably and earned a Bronze Star Medal among other awards and recognitions. After returning home from the war, he began working for St. Joe Lead as a pipefitter and plumber, a career he pursued with dedication and skill until his retirement at the age of 65. He was a well-respected member of the Monaca community, and his presence was one that many came to trust and appreciate. He was a lifelong member of the Monaca Turners and enjoyed participating in their golf and bowling leagues. He was also a member of the Rochester Elks and the VFW. He was something of a daredevil on a motorcycle, and he loved stereo equipment, animals, birds, the simple satisfaction of growing tomatoes and playing the daily number just as his dad, Thomas did.

The family will receive friends on Wednesday, April 1st from 3 p.m. until the time of a service at 6 p.m. at SIMPSON FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES, 1119 Washington Avenue, Monaca, who was in charge of his arrangements. Interment will take place later with military honors at the National Cemetery of the Alleghenies, 1158 Morgan Road, Bridgeville.

The family has suggested those wishing to make a memorial contribution in Tim’s memory to please consider the Beaver County Humane Society, 3394 Brodhead Road, Aliquippa, PA 15001.

Paulette “Polly” May (Kaercher) Lander (1944-2026)

Paulette “Polly” May (Kaercher) Lander, 81, of Independence Township, passed away on March 28th, 2026, at West Penn Hospital. She was born at West Penn Hospital on October 10th, 1944, a daughter of the late Howard Dustin Kaercher and Anna Mae (Roadman) Kaercher. She married the love of her life, Gerald Boise Lander, on May 9th, 1964. He also preceded her in death. They had three children: Kevin (Denise) Lander of Hookstown, Scott (Deb) Lander of Dover, and Marcy (Keith) Whiteman of Aliquippa. Kids were the apple of Polly’s eye especially her grandchildren: Dustin (Shayla) Lander, Kori Lander, and Dalton Lander, Zack (Tasia) Lander, Madison (Jesse) Tinnell, Kirstin Fink, Nick (Lexi) Fink, Collin Whiteman, Samantha Whiteman and Rob. However, her great grandchildren stole her heart forever: Easton and Enzlo Lander, Asher Lander, and Ellie Fink. She is also survived by her nieces, nephews, cousins, and many fabulous friends. In addition to her parents and her husband, she was preceded in death by her sister, Diana Tibbetts and her in-laws: Benjamin and Irene Lander and Anna Mae, Grace, and Richard Lander. Polly worked as a dietician at West Penn Hospital. She was a homemaker until taking the position as the Library Aide at Independence Elementary School. She worked full time at Independence as the school secretary. She enjoyed spoiling her teachers, parents, and students. Polly was a member of Mt. Olivet Evangelical Presbyterian Church in Aliquippa. She served as Sunday School Superintendent, music leader to the children, Vacation Bible School Director, Sunday School teacher, a member of the choir, and bowled many years on the church league. Polly will be remembered for her loving, generous heart and her competitive nature. She loved playing card games especially Skip-Bo.

Family and friends will be received on Tuesday, March 31st, from 3-7 p.m. in the HUNTSMAN FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATION SERVICES, INC. OF ALIQUIPPA, 2345 Mill Street, Aliquippa , who was in charge of her arrangements. A funeral service will also be held at the Mt. Olivet Evangelical Presbyterian Church, 4128 Route 151, Aliquippa, on Wednesday, April 1st, at 11 a.m. with Rev. Kevin Neal officiating. Interment will be private for the family.

At the family’s request, in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: Mt Olivet EPC Memorial Fund, 4128 Rt 151, Aliquippa, PA 15001. Independence Elementary Library, 103 School Rd., Aliquippa, PA 15001. Mt Pleasant EPC Honduras Scholarship Fund, 846 St Rt18, Aliquippa, PA 15001.

Kathleen “Joyce” Mesko (1939-2026)

Kathleen “Joyce” Mesko, 86, a lifelong resident of Ambridge, passed away on March 26th, 2026. She was born on July 2nd, 1939, the daughter of the late Michael and Rose (Rizzo) Notarianni. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Richard Mesko, her daughter, Linda Mesko and her brother, Carl Notarianni. She is survived by her loving daughters, Lorie (Frank) Jeskey and Amy (Brian) Durbin, her brother, Jim Notarianni and her cherished grandchildren, Luke, Avery, and Eli, who affectionately called her “Nunni.”

Kathleen graduated from Ambridge High School with its Class of 1957. She had a special love for her dogs, especially Rosie and Ritzy. She treasured beach vacations with her family and enjoyed spending time on her porch, chatting with neighbors and passersby.

A visitation will be held on Monday, March 30th, from 3-7 P.M. at Alvarez-Hahn Funeral Services and Cremation LLC, 547 8th Street, Ambridge, who was in charge of her arrangements, and where a Blessing Service will be held at 11 A.M. on Tuesday, March 31st. Interment will follow at Sylvania Hills Memorial Park, 273 PA-68, Rochester.

Matthew Klenk (1971-2026)

Matthew Klenk, 54, of Ambridge, passed away unexpectedly on March 24, 2026.
He was born in Pittsburgh on October 5, 1971, a son of the late Robert and Barbara Bender Klenk.
Matt was a devoted husband, father, brother, pastor, and friend whose life touched countless people.
For the past eleven years, Matthew faithfully served as the Senior Pastor at Calvary Fellowship Community Church in Ambridge. He dedicated 25 years of his life to spreading the good news of Jesus Christ, his Lord and Savior, and was a pillar of strength and compassion within the community.  Matt was an avid golfer.  Beyond his ministry, Matt gave generously of his time through charity work and served as a basketball coach mentoring and inspiring young people both on and off the court.
Matt leaves behind his loving daughter, Isabella Klenk (Josh King) who is preparing to graduate from Duquesne University in May. Bella was the light of Matt’s life, and he was incredibly proud of the strong, compassionate young woman she has become and made sure to do everything he could for her. He also leaves behind a sister Patty (Steve) Rohm, a brother Bob (Frankie) Klenk, and numerous nieces & nephews. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Jennifer Klenk and a sister, Barbara Klenk.
Matt’s impact reaches far beyond his family.  He was deeply loved by friends, church members, and the entire Ambridge community. His kindness, unwavering faith, and servant’s heart left a lasting impression on everyone he encountered.
Friends will be received on Monday from 3-7 P.M. in the Calvary Fellowship Community Church, 300 11th Street, Ambridge.
Family and Friends will then meet on Tuesday at 11 A.M. in the New Hope Community Church, 592 Beaver Road, Ambridge, where a funeral service will be held, with his good friend Pastor Rick Thornhill officiating. Arrangements have been entrusted to the John Syka Funeral Home, Inc., 833 Kennedy Drive, Ambridge.
Interment will follow in Economy Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers the family asks donations be made to the Calvary Fellowship Community Church.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Matthew Klenk, please visit the floral store of the John Syka Funeral Home, Inc. by clicking here.

Waler “Terry” Bingle (1942-2026)

Walter “Terry” Bingle, 83, of Patterson Township, passed away on March 26th, 2026. He was born in Ellwood City on August 31st, 1942, and lived a full and hardworking life centered around family, friends, and the things he loved most. He was the beloved husband of Nancy “Jeanie” Bingle. He was a proud and devoted father to Katie Bingle, Stephanie Corless (Brandon), and Chari Rae (Don). He was also a cherished grandfather “Pa” to: Trenton, Carter, and Dylan Mauk, Graham and Greyson Corless and Ashley Rae. Walter dedicated many years of his life to his work, beginning at B&W Steel Mill before finishing his career as a bus driver. He drove both coach and school buses for McCarter Coach and Tour as well as Beaver County Transit Authority, where he was known for his reliability and friendly nature. Outside of work, he had a passion for classic cars, especially Corvettes, and enjoyed racing in his younger years. He loved riding motorcycles and found joy in the open road. He also took great pride in cutting the grass and keeping his yard looking its best. He had a big heart for animals and was always willing to take in a stray, reflecting his kind and generous spirit. He also treasured the simple moments in life, especially his morning routine of meeting friends at McDonald’s, where laughter, conversation, and companionship were always part of the day’s beginning. A memorial visitation will be held on Wednesday, April 1st from 5 P.M. until the time of service at 7 P.M. at the CORLESS-KUNSELMAN FUNERAL SERVICES, LLC 3801 4th Avenue, Beaver Falls, who was in charge of his arrangements. He will be remembered for his love of family, his hardworking nature, and his willingness to help others. His presence will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Gayle J. Javens (1949-2026)

Gayle J. Javens, 77, of New Sewickley Township, passed away on March 25th, 2026. She was born on February 16th, 1949, a daughter of the late Esther Brickner. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, William Javens, a daughter, Barb Shultz, and her siblings, Gloria VanEattan, and Nancy Brickner. She is survived by her children, David Brickner and Tina Thompson. There will be no visitation or services for Gayle. Arrangements have been entrusted to the branch of Huntsman Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

Cline J. Mitchell (1944-2026)

Cline J. Mitchell, 81, of New Brighton, passed away on March 25th, 2026. He was born in Aliquippa on April 17th, 1944, the son of the late Cline J. and Sarah (Meridith) Mitchell, Sr. He is survived by his daughter, Wilhelmina Mitchell of New Brighton. In accordance with his wishes, there will be no services. Arrangements have been entrusted to the J&J Spratt Funeral Home, Inc., 1612 Third Avenue, New Brighton.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Cline J. Mitchell, please visit the flower store of the J&J Spratt Funeral Home, Inc. by clicking here.

Danya Renee Soltis (1997-2026)

Danya Renee Soltis, 28, passed away on March 11th, 2026, in Brunswick, Georgia. She was born in Pittsburgh on November 1st, 1997, the daughter of Danielle Soltis and Donald A. “Dunt” Byrd. In addition to her parents, she is survived by her siblings, Danae Selby, Anthony Soltis, Seth Atkins, and Dante Atkins; and her grandparents, Mary Kay Wawro, John and Jackie Soltis, Jim Neri and Suzan Reid, and Donald R. “Dunt” Byrd. She is also lovingly remembered by her aunts and uncles: Deanna (Phil) Koch, Jacy Martinez, Carli (Patrick) Blackwell, Damian Byrd, Dorian Byrd, Rosalyn (Jason) Thomas, Melinda (Stephen) Vreen, and Samantha Byrd, along with many cousins who adored her and shared a special bond with her. She is also lovingly remembered by Rashaud McElvy Sr., his son, Rashaud McElvy Jr., Jordan Lawson, and Yvette Lawson who held a special place in her heart. She was preceded in death by her paternal grandmother, Melinda Sallis Byrd, and her stepbrother, Michael Atkins.

Danya grew up in Beaver where her bright mind, compassionate heart, and vibrant personality quickly became known to everyone who met her. She had a rare gift; the ability to walk into a room and make people feel seen, valued, and comfortable. She could talk with anyone, about anything, and people naturally gravitated toward her warmth and sincerity. Friends often said that Danya had a special presence that brightened any room and made every conversation more meaningful. The love she gave and the light she carried filled a lifetime. She was a graduate of Beaver High School who pursued higher education with determination and pride. She began her college journey at George Washington University and later completed her bachelor’s degree at Penn State. At the time of her passing, she was just finishing her master’s degree in professional counseling at Carlow University, an accomplishment that meant so much to her and reflected both her intellect and her deep desire to help others. She was known for her strong work ethic and dependable spirit. She worked at Wawro’s Bar and Grille in Aliquippa and later at Sea Island Resort in Georgia, where coworkers and patrons alike admired her kindness, humor, and dedication. Whether serving guests or spending time with friends, she had a natural way of making people feel important and welcomed. Those who knew her will remember her as intelligent, loving, witty, and deeply thoughtful. She was clever and quick with humor, able to find laughter even in difficult moments. She loved meaningful conversations, long talks about life, ideas, and the world around her. She was curious, always reading, always learning, and carried a lifelong love of knowledge. She also had a soft spot for animals, especially cats. Her beloved cat Captain kept her company in Georgia, while Mini, Gucci, and Major remained cherished members of her extended family in Pittsburgh. She loved looking her best, joking about being “a queen,” and bringing joy and laughter to those around her. She cared deeply about the world and the people in it. Danya was passionate about social justice and spoke often about the importance of standing up for others—especially women, marginalized communities, and those whose voices are too often unheard. Compassion and empathy guided the way she lived her life.

Family and friends are warmly invited to celebrate Danya’s life on Saturday, March 28th at 11 a.m. at The Holiness Church of Christ Deliverance Center, 6349 Tuscarawas Road, Industry. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Noll Funeral Home, Inc., 333 Third Street, Beaver.

Those wishing to honor Danya’s memory may make memorial contributions to Steel Smiling, an organization dedicated to bridging the gap between Black people and mental health support through education, advocacy, and awareness (429 Fourth Avenue, Suite 1900, Pittsburgh, PA 15219).

Those who knew Danya will remember the light she brought into the world and the kindness she carried with her every day. Her life reminds us that even in a short time, one person’s compassion, intelligence, humor, and love can leave a lasting imprint on countless hearts.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Danya Renee Soltis, please visit the flower store of the Noll Funeral Home, Inc. by clicking here.

Louella Jean Signore (1936-2026)

Louella Jean Signore, 89, of Baden, formerly of Beaver, passed away on March 18th, 2026, at Villa St. Joseph in Baden. She was born in Wampum on November 11th, 1936, the daughter of the late John A. and Mabel Cunningham McCormick. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Frank P. Signore, two sisters and brothers-in-law, Janet and Meredith Smith, and Wilma and George Mountain, as well as one brother and sister-in-law, William and Dorothy McCormick. She is survived by one son and daughter-in-law, Frank P. Jr., and Denise J. Signore, as well as three nieces, Kelly Dalton, Amber Fesh, and Kris Shahen, and one nephew, Chipper Smith.

Louella was a Clerk for the Youth Center of Beaver Falls and a member of St. Cecilia’s Roman Catholic Church in Rochester and Our Lady of the Valley Parish. Louella’s wishes were to be cremated with no viewing or service. Inurnment will take place at St. Cecilia’s Cemetery, 761 Allendale Road, New Brighton, All arrangements are entrusted to William Murphy Funeral Home Inc., 349 Adams Street, Rochester.