Evelyn “Betsy” Elizabeth Buck Garmen (1948-2026)

Evelyn Elizabeth “Betsy” Buck Garmen, 77, formerly of North Sewickley Township, passed away on March 14th, 2026. She was born in Germantown, Pennsylvania on June 21st, 1948, in Germantown, a daughter of the late Lucien and Flora E. Veiock Buck. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, John Clark Garmen. Betsy is survived by her sister Gertrude “Trudy” (Mark) Hutchinson of Altamont, NY, and her daughters Patricia (James) Schaffer of West Sunbury and Terri Brown (Josh Winschel) of Ellwood City. She was proud of her six grandchildren: Brian (Ashley) Schaffer of Slippery Rock, Joanna (Layne) Kreibel of Petrolia, Curtis (Leanne) Brown of North Sewickley Township, Nickolas (Aubree) Brown of Morgantown, WV, Alexander (Maria) Brown of Franklin Township, and Emma Brown of New Castle. She enjoyed telling people about her 15 great-grandchildren: Lilly and Carter Schaffer; Nolan, Myah, and Sydnee Kreibel; Ryan and Aubrey Klein; Abeni, Curtis JR, Avery and Colton Brown; Scott and Nathan Brown; Bearett and Berkley Brown; and one great-grandson Atlas Hoffman. Many nieces, nephews, and cousins made her family complete.

Betsy was a 1966 graduate of Beaver Falls Area Senior High School and attended Beaver County Community College. She retired in 2007 from the Veteran’s Affairs Medical Center in Butler after 20 years of service. She enjoyed spending time with her family, gardening, and listening to the birds.

Family and friends will be received on Saturday, March 21st at 3 p.m. until the time of a service at 3:30 p.m., on the second floor in the main building of the Seaman Chapel at Lutheran SeniorLife (Passavant Community,) 105 Burgess Drive, Zelienople. The Rev. Freda Snyder will officiate the service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Evelyn Garmen to the Lutheran SeniorLife Foundation, 300 West Beaver Street, Zelienople, PA, 16063.

Interment will be in Grove Cemetery, 1750 Valley Avenue, New Brighton. 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 Evelyn “Betsy” Elizabeth Buck Garmen, please visit the flower store of the J&J Spratt Funeral Home, Inc. by clicking here.

William “Bill” J. Carver (1937-2026)

William “Bill” J. Carver, 88, of New Brighton, passed away on March 14th, 2026, in his residence. He was born in New Brighton on November 3rd, 1937, a son of the late Ernest and Sophie (Lesnick) Carver. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his loving first wife of 62 years, Margaret “Peggy” Carver, his second wife, Nancy (Narvett) Carver, a brother, Kenneth “Doc” Carver; a sister, Virginia Carver, two sons-in-law, John Gorgas and Frank Gaus, a niece, Terry Carver and a nephew, Larry Carver. He is survived by his 4 children: Jacqueline Gorgas, Mitch (Linda) Carver, Judith (Mike) Anthony, and Janette Gaus; along with Nancy’s 3 children, Rick (Laura) Narvett, Debbie Narvett and Rob Narvett, twelve grandchildren: Jesse Ward, Maggie (Ryan) Koslof, Joshua (Jamie) Carver, Dr. Rachel (Chris) Fath, Brittany (Greg) Safran, Dr. Alyssa (Alex) Marcus, Shelby (Jim Wherry) Carver, John (Alexa) Anthony, Nathan (Phil) Anthony, Michael Anthony and his fiancée, Maura, Sarah (James) Sullivan and Mary Gaus; as well as his great-grandchildren: Sean Ward, Grayson, Elouise and Grady Safran, Blake and Christian Fath, Callister and Juniper Marcus, and baby Rosie Anthony on the way; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and very dear friends.

William was a member of the Living Manna Family Church in Darlington and he was known as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend whose greatest joy in life was the time he spent with his family. Whether it was sitting in the stands, cheering from the sidelines, or traveling to watch a game or performance, he spent countless hours proudly supporting his children and grandchildren in their many activities. He was also an avid golfer throughout his life who found peace and happiness on the golf course.

Friends will be received on Thursday, March 19th from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. and on Friday, March 20th from 10 a.m. until the time of services at 11 a.m. in the GABAUER FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SVCS, INC., 1133 Penn Avenue, New Brighton, who was in charge of his arrangements. Pastor Sam Fidell will officiate.

Interment will follow in Grove Cemetery, 1750 Valley Avenue, New Brighton.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made, if desired, to the New Brighton Gridiron Club, PO Box 396, New Brighton PA 15066.

Dr. Thomas Adam Kavic (1951-2026)

Thomas Adam Kavic, M.D., 75, of Sewickley, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully on March 12th, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Rochester on January 18th, 1951, and Dr. Thomas lived a life defined by perseverance, faith, service to others, and devotion to his family. He was a son of the late Stephen and Violet Kavic. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his nephew, John Kavic, his brother, Dr. Alexander J. Kavic and his in-laws Albert and Mary Kuhel. He is survived by his beloved wife, Marilyn Kavic. his sons Mark Kavic, David Kavic (Laurel), and Daniel Kavic (Ingrid), his cherished grandchildren: Kalina, Nikola, Clark, and Greta; as well as his brothers Dr. Michael S. Kavic (Patricia) and Dr. Timothy N. Kavic (Karen), his aunt, Frances Acimovic, several nieces and nephews and numerous cousins and relatives whom he loved dearly. From an early age, he demonstrated exceptional academic ability, graduating as Valedictorian of Hopewell High School in 1969. He went on to attend Franklin & Marshall College on an academic scholarship, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Biology in the Pre-Healing Arts program. He later achieved a remarkable and historic milestone when he was accepted into the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, earning his Doctor of Medicine degree in 1977. At a time when barriers for individuals with hearing loss in medical education were immense, he made history as the first deaf student to graduate from the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, a testament to his extraordinary determination, intellect, and unwavering commitment to serving others through medicine. Following medical school, he completed his Radiology residency and a fellowship in Special Procedures at the University of Pittsburgh Hospitals. He began his career as Assistant Professor of Radiology and Director of Vascular Radiology at West Virginia University in Morgantown, West Virginia. He later returned to Western Pennsylvania, where he served the community for many years as a radiologist with Heritage Valley Health System, practicing at the Sewickley, Beaver, and Kennedy campuses. In addition, he provided radiology services remotely through vRad and for numerous local medical practices, continuing his dedication to patient care throughout his career. He was deeply committed to community service and advocacy. He served for several years on the Board of the Beaver County Historical Society and on the Governor’s Advisory Board for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, working to improve opportunities and accessibility for others. Outside of medicine, he enjoyed spending time outdoors and especially loved riding his Harley-Davidson trike. He was also a licensed Extra Class Amateur Radio Operator, a hobby he greatly enjoyed. He was also an avid reader who loved studying American history, especially the French and Indian War and the American Revolution and he had a deep interest in Biblical archaeology. Above all, he loved his family and lived his life guided by his faith. He loved and faithfully served his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, and was known by those who knew him as a kind, generous, and compassionate man who was always willing to help others. His life was one of faith, perseverance, and service. His legacy lives on through his family, the many patients he cared for, and the barriers he helped break for others. The family would like to thank Timothy Denny, Sarah Guest, Jordan Serra, Sarah Troyer, Reza Zadfar, Candice and Mary Brutt, and AHN Wexford ICU for their unwavering love, care, and support. A visitation will be held on Thursday, March 19th from 2-4 P.M. and 5-7 P.M. in the Alvarez-Hahn Funeral Services and Cremation LLC, 547 8th Street, Ambridge, who was in charge of his arrangements, and where a funeral service will be held on Friday, March 20th at 11 A.M. Burial will follow at Economy Cemetery, 1691 Ridge Road Extension #1601, Ambridge.

Christina Marie Brooks (1976-2026)

Christina Marie Brooks, 50, of Ellwood City passed away peacefully on March 12th, 2026, at UPMC Presbyterian Hospital. She was born in Beaver Falls on March 8th, 1976, and she spent her life giving every ounce of love she had to give to those that had the pleasure of being in her life. She loved raising and caring for her animals, watching the Dallas Cowboys, and above all else, spending time with her loved ones. She was preceded in death by her grandmother, Delores Price, her cousin, James Plum, her daughter, Shantel Glaab, and her granddaughter, Octavia Waters. She is survived by her mother, Delores Rickard, her dad, Bob Rickard, her father, Gus Eaton, her brothers, Mark Plum (Rhonda) and Elijah Eaton (Amanda), her sister, Chelsey Eaton, her daughter, Lindze Waters (Jalen), her son, Austin Glaab (Hannah), her grandchildren, EzeQuiel and Myles, her significant other, Anthony Coppola, and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and loved ones that will always hold a special place in her heart.

A celebration of life service will be held on Tuesday, March 17th, from 5 P.M. until 7 P.M. at the J&J Spratt Funeral Home, Inc., 1612 Third Avenue, New Brighton, who was in charge of her arrangements.

Christina will be remembered for her unconditional love, unwavering kindness, and profound compassion that her loved ones will always hold close to their hearts.

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

Richard McMurray (1955-2026)

Richard McMurray, 70, of Moon Township, passed away on March 11th, 2026, at Good Samaritan Hospice House of Wexford. He was born in Carnegie on July 11th, 1955, a son of the late Walter and Ella Mae (Militzer) McMurray. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Danny McMurray. He is survived by his loving wife of 44 years, Gina (Cappellino) McMurray, three children, Lindsay Strittmatter (Brandon) of Ohio; Matt McMurray (Amber) of Crescent Township; and Emily Logue (Connor) of Philadelphia. He was a cherished grandfather to seven grandchildren: Jenson, Saylor, Miles, Hallie, Quinn, Cameron, and Chase. Rich is also survived by his brother, David McMurray, and his sister, Patti Marso.

Richard loved fishing, playing golf, traveling, and spending time with friends and family. He was also an avid Pittsburgh sports fan. He especially enjoyed hunting with his son and spending time outdoors. Some of his favorite moments were sitting by the fire and spending time on his boat at the lake. He cherished time with his grandchildren and making memories with those he loved. Those who knew him will always remember his hour-long stories and his famous “shortcuts” on car rides. He was a loving husband, father, son, brother, uncle, and grandfather. He will be missed dearly by his family and many friends.

Friends will be received on Tuesday, March 17th, from 2 P.M. until the time of a memorial service at 4:30 P.M. at Huntsman Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Moon Township, 1522 Coraopolis Heights Road, Coraopolis, who was in charge of his arrangements.

Memorial contributions may be made to Hunt of a Lifetime in Richard’s memory.

Ed Shewak (1948-2026)

Ed Shewak, 77, of New Brighton, passed away at Passavant Hospital in McCandless on March 10th, 2026. He was born in Rochester on September 13th, 1948, the son of the late Edward Sr. and Ann (Sergi) Shewak. He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Cathy (Marzio), his daughters, Jennifer (Bryan) of Paeonian Springs, Virginia, Allison (Josh) of Beaver, Courtney of Gainesville, Virginia, and Ashley of Beaver Falls and his grandchildren: Cameron, Colin, Vivian, Violet, Ella, Gianna, and Kaymin.

Ed was a man who knew his values and lived by them every day. He was a fair and honest man in business and in life. He was a faithful Catholic and could be expected every Sunday at 7:30 mass at Saints Peter and Paul (Our Lady of the Valley Parish). His parents started Shewak Distributor in 1950 from their garage in North Rochester. His parents expanded the business to the current location and built a nice home to raise him. He graduated from Rochester High School in 1966 and then started college at Edinboro State College with his high school sweetheart, Cathy. In his time there, he was always involved in student affairs and helped create changes in student government. He received a degree in Psychology and used this knowledge in his everyday interactions with customers and business acquaintances. Upon graduating from college, he joined the Air National Guard. He worked at the 171st Cmbt. Spt. Group in Coraopolis. He continued to expand Shewak Distributor to where it is today. He had a great work ethic. He could be seen every day on Virginia Avenue driving the forklift back and forth waving to the people going up and down the road. Working with him meant a sales call would turn from 5 minutes to 30. He could give a history lesson about the beer industry but would also give the best advice about business and life.  He was a wealth of knowledge and cared very much about the people he dealt with. He was a mentor to many people in this business. He loved going to Charleston with Cathy every month to his second home.  He enjoyed the many restaurants, friends, and beaches. He loved sitting in his beach chair taking in the sun. There he could rest and relax, knowing that his daughter, Allison, was taking good care of the business. Ed was very proud of Allison and loved working with her every day. The family wishes to thank all the nurses and doctors at Passavant Hospital for their kindness and exceptional care.  Words cannot express our thanks for the wonderful people involved in hospice care who watched and prayed over him. A memorial gathering will be held on Sunday, March 15th from 2-6 P.M. at Huntsman Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Rochester, 502 Adams Street, Rochester, who was in charge of his arrangements. Family and friends are invited to celebrate his life at 10 A.M. for a memorial Mass at Saints Peter and Paul Church, 200 3rd Street, Beaver on Monday, March 16th, followed by a luncheon at The Standard in Bridgewater, 1462 Riverside Drive, Beaver.

John Wayne Sherrill, Jr. (1968-2026)

John Wayne Sherrill, Jr., 58, of Little Beaver Township, passed away on March 9th, 2026 at his residence. He was born in New Brighton on January 8th, 1968, a son of Catherine Sullivan and the late John Wayne Sherrill, Sr. In addition to his mother, he is survived by a son, Dalten Hartzell; daughter, Sierra; sisters, Paula, Marcie, and Charlotte; his significant other of many years, Nancy Blanchard; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and friends. In addition to his father, he was preceded in death by a brother, David Sherrill; and a sister, Johnna Sherrill.

John was a true outdoorsman and enjoyed his time by the river and on his pontoon boat. He was an avid Harley Davidson rider and loved riding with his friends.  When not on the river or on his bike, he enjoyed picnics with family, spending time with his dog, fishing, and being with his best friend, Bill King.

Friends will be received on Monday, March 16th from 4-7 P.M. in the GABAUER-LUTTON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, INC., 117 Blackhawk Road, Beaver Falls, who was in charge of his arrangements, and where a funeral service will be held in the funeral home chapel on Tuesday, March 17th at 11 A.M.

Interment will follow in Grandview Cemetery, 139 Norwood Drive, Beaver Falls.

Reena Leigh Schmidt (1949-2026)

Reena Leigh Schmidt, 76, of Economy Borough, passed away on March 9th, 2026 in her home surrounded by her loving family.

She was born in Sewickley on July 27, 1949, a daughter of the late James and Regina Morrow Riley. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her first husband, Carol Wilfong, her second husband, Arthur Schmidt and a brother, Marshall Riley. She is survived by her four children: Regina Lavan, Brad (Jessica) Wilfong, Robert Trakofler, Robert Schmidt; as well as six grandchildren: Ashley, Dominic, Morgan, Jason, Terra, & Kaylee; along with ten great grandchildren and her siblings: Keith (Kathy) Riley,  Roxeen Slappo, Sharmane McCoy, and Patrick Riley.

Reena was a home health aide for Homemakers who enjoyed taking care of people.

Friends will be received on Saturday, March 14th from 1-5 P.M. in the John Syka Funeral Home, Inc., 833 Kennedy Drive, Ambridge ,who was in charge of her arrangements.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Reena Schmidt, please visit the floral store of the John Syka Funeral Home, Inc. by clicking here.

Joseph Paul Zilk (1953-2026)

Joseph Paul Zilk, 72, of Pulaski Township, passed away peacefully on March 10th, 2026.

He was born in New Brighton on March 16th, 1953, a son of the late George and Mary (Belcufine) Zilk. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Andrea (Raines) Zilk and a daughter, Amanda Zilk. He is survived by his brothers, John Zilk, George (Kathy) Zilk, and David (Peggy) Zilk, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

Joseph worked for Crucible Steel and Phoenix Glass for his professional career.

In accordance with Joseph’s wishes, he will be cremated and no services are being planned.

The GABAUER FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, INC., 1133 Penn Avenue, New Brighton, was honored to provide care and guidance to Joseph’s family during this time and was the funeral home that was in charge of his arrangements.

Alla Marie Dvorchak (Passed on March 9th, 2026)

Alla Marie Dvorchak, 85 passed away peacefully on March 9th, 2026, at her residence in Center Township. She was born in Riga, Latvia and her life was one of love, artistry, and a remarkable talent for nurturing those around her. She was the matriarch of a large family, and was preceded in death by her devoted husband, Raymond S. Dvorchak, with whom she shared 67 years since their marriage in Ludwigsfelde, Germany, on September 3rd, 1958. Together, they built a legacy that continues through their children: Eugene (Debbie) Dvorchak, Greg Dvorchak, Lydia Nagy, and Nadine (Nick) Unis; as well as her cherished grandchildren: Danny, Mathew, and Elizabeth Nagy, Marissa Stevens (Cory), Kyle Dvorchak (Paige), Josh Dvorchak, Rachel Dvorchak, Allie Unis (Keith), Nicholas Unis (Sara), Jake Unis, and Chloe Unis.

Alla was also a beloved sister to her brothers, Juris Pelse and Janis Bankavs and her sister-in-law Rita Tornow. She was preceded in death by her parents, Visvaldis and Vera (Bankavs) Pelse, her siblings, Nikola Pelse and Alexander Bankavs, and her in-laws Marlene and Tom Lipnicky. Her familial bonds extended beyond her immediate family, as Alla’s generous spirit led her to help raise numerous neighborhood children, providing them with the same love and care she bestowed upon her own.

Alla was educated at a fashion design school in Germany and she possessed a natural flair for aesthetics and creativity. She considered herself a “domestic engineer,” dedicating her life to the art of homemaking. Beyond her family responsibilities, she was a great artist, particularly skilled in charcoal drawings. Her talents extended to the kitchen, where she was an incredible cook and baker. Her culinary prowess was legendary, especially during the Christmas season when she would lovingly prepare over 40 different types of cookies and the world’s best eggnog. She also enjoyed watching the Food Network, drawing inspiration from the dishes she viewed on television to create her own delectable meals. She was known for being outspoken, unafraid to voice her opinions and stand firm in her convictions. This strength of character was balanced by her warm heart and the deep bonds she formed with many friends throughout her life. She will be deeply missed, yet her influence will remain a guiding force for all who loved her.

A celebration of life for Alla will be held at a later date. Arrangements have been entrusted to Simpson Funeral and Cremation Services, 1119 Washignton Avenue, Monaca.

For those wishing to make a memorial contribution in Alla’s memory, please consider the St. Jude’s Children Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

To share or view an online condolence, please visit www.simpsonfuneralhome.com.