Category: Obituaries

Gloria B. Krepps (1937-2026)

Gloria B. Krepps, 88, of New Sewickley Township, passed away on April 11th, 2026 after a long and courageous battle with cancer. She was born in Conway on July 3rd, 1937, the daughter of the late Louis and Louise Spagnola. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of almost 70 years, Jack Krepps, who was her childhood sweetheart.  She was also preceded in death by a sister and brother-in-law, Mary Jane and John Havranek, a sister and brother-in-law, Flo and Mel Krepps, and a brother and sister-in-law Anthony and Patty Spagnola, and Fr. Michael Greb, OFM, Cap, a very special family friend.

She is survived by their two daughters, Darla and Jonathan Kasing of Butler and Jaci and Don Mason of New Sewickley Township. These girls were their parents’ pride and joy. They are left with such beautiful memories of all their times spent together. She is also survived by her grandchildren, as she was the proud Gram to: Cory and Jessica Mason, of New Sewickley Township, Tyler Dunlap and Dr. Richelle Takemoto, of Cooperstown, New York, Ashley and Justin Yetter of Gibsonia and Jennifer and Jay Bradel of New Sewickley Township. Before long, her  greatest joy was hearing herself called ‘Gigi’ by her surviving seven great-grandchildren: Lucas, Wyatt and Ellie Bradel, Olivia “Via” and Pete Mason, Owen Yetter and Tiger Takemoto. They all adored her as much as she adored them. Each and everyone of her grandchildren and great grandchildren have their own special memory of being with her to cherish. She is also survived by her brother and sister-in-law, Bart and Connee Spagnola, many nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews. There are a few very special people in Gloria’s life who she felt part of her family, and they include: life long friends Buzz and Dee McKay, John and Tamra Rosa and their children, Zachary and Erica, who lovingly called her Gram for they grew up spending many days and years with her, as well as Erin and Liam, who also held a special place in her heart.

Gloria married her husband, Jack Krepps, upon graduating from Ambridge High School. They truly were soulmates and enjoyed everything they did together. Whether it be an evening of bingo, a “ride to the track” or weekends at camp, where there was one, you’d find the other. She took great pride in being a housewife and Mom. Her home was always filled with love, warmth and food. She lovingly took care of her family and anyone who knocked at her door. She became Mom and Gram to many throughout the years. Saying that Gloria loved Christmas was an understatement. Her home became a Christmas Winter Wonderland at the beginning of November till sometime in February. Her love of decorating, baking cookies and watching her Hallmark movies was a passion. Each morning as her feet touched the floor she thanked her Lord for another day. She never stopped or let anything get her down. She truly loved and took great pride in being a wife, mother, grandmother and Gigi. She loved her life and lived it to the fullest always with love and compassion for everyone and anyone around her.

Friends will be received on Thursday, April 16th, from 4-7 p.m., at the William Murphy Funeral Home, Inc., 349 Adams Street, Rochester, who was in charge of her arrangements. A Mass of Christian Burial will also be held on Friday, April 17th at 10 a.m. at St. Cecilia Roman Catholic Church, 632 Virginia Avenue, Rochester. Interment will follow at Calvary Cemetery, 1101 9th Street, Extension, Freedom, where a graveside service will be held from 11:15-11:30 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family wishes memorial contributions be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

Steven Pyecha (1950-2026)

Steven Pyecha, 75, of Center Township, passed away on April 13th, 2026, at Heritage Valley Health System – Beaver Campus. He was born in Pittsburgh on May 11th, 1950, the son of the late Stephen and Ruth Ann (Smith) Pyecha. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his loving wife of 31 years, Christine (Belkowski) Pyecha. He is survived by his three sons, David (Kalyn) Menges, Frank (Karla Forsythe) Menges, and Brian (Barbara) Menges, his grandchildren: Cody, Casey, Allison, Ashley, Sean, Dylan, Stacy, Penelope, and Landon; as well as his great-grandchildren: Alexander, Greyson, Brayden, Cecelia, Callum, and one on the way; along with a dear cousin, Virginia Voegler, his sister-in-law, Janet Maccrindle, a neighbor, Chris Kloss and his wife, and many friends.

Steven retired from Laborers Union Local 833 following many years of service as a business agent. He was most proud of his three sons and loved his late wife, Christine, endlessly. He was also a member of the New Brighton Eagles Club, Monaca Turners, as well as many other local social clubs. In his free time, he enjoyed fishing, hunting, and playing golf.

Friends will be received for a memorial visitation on Saturday, April 18th from 3 p.m. until the time of services at 5 p.m. in the GABAUER FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, INC., 1133 Penn Avenue, New Brighton, who was in charge of his arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Steven’s name may be directed to the Beaver County Humane Society, 3394 Brodhead Road, Aliquippa, PA 15001.

Amelia Rita DiCenso (Passed on April 12th, 2026)

Amelia Rita DiCenso, 85, of Monaca, passed away on April 12th, 2026, at her residence in Monaca. She was born in Pacentro di Aquileia, Italy, and came to the United States at the age of fifteen. She was a beloved daughter of the late Antonio and Rosa (Celeste) DiMatteo. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her two sisters, Anna Kozar and Lucia Troia. She is survived by her husband, Francesco DiCenso, her son, Frank DiCenso, her daughter, Anna Marie DiCenso and her three grandchildren, Dr. Madeline A. DiCenso (finance, Devan Durbin), Sophie M. Gaff and her husband, Creighton Gaff, and Ethan S. DiCenso, along with two brothers, Salvatore (Adelina) DiMatteo and Giovanni (Gemma) DiMatteo and numerous nieces and nephews.

On June 16th, 1962, Amelia was united in marriage to Francesco DiCenso at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Monaca. Their marriage was a lifelong partnership marked by devotion, companionship, and shared commitment to family. She was a devoted homemaker whose greatest joy was caring for her family. Every Sunday, she made certain that her family gathered together for dinner, creating cherished memories around the table and strengthening the bonds that connected generations. Her homemade meatballs, sauce, wedding soup, and Italian cookies were beloved by all who were fortunate enough to enjoy them. She was a member of Mary, Queen of Saints Parish and St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Monaca. She lived a full and meaningful life, and her memory will remain a source of comfort and inspiration to her family and friends.

Friends will be received on Thursday, April 16th from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. at SIMPSON FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES, 1119 Washington Avenue, Monaca, who was in charge of her arrangements, and where a blessing service will be held on Friday, April 17th at 10 a.m. Entombment will follow in Beaver Cemetery Mausoleum, Buffalo Street, Beaver.

Norma Jean Lash (1934-2026)

Norma Jean Lash, 91, of Patterson Township, passed away on April 10th, 2026, at Quality Life Services in New Castle. She was born in Beaver Falls on November 8th, 1934, the daughter of the late Howard “Hud” and Margaret May Carlson Young. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, John “Bob” Lash in August of 2024, and brother, Ronald Young. She is survived by her children, David (Rhonda) Lash and Bonnie (Tom) DeMaria, her grandchildren: Krysta, Jennifer, John and Jessica; as well as her great grandchildren, Hazel, Sawyer, Layla and Haven; along with her sisters-in-law, Karen Lash, Linda Smith and Fran Young and numerous nieces and nephews.

Norma met her husband, Bob, in elementary school, beginning a friendship that would span decades. Even as life took them in different directions: including her time at Junior College in California as their bond only grew stronger. They made their relationship official through heartfelt letters exchanged across the miles; a love story built on patience, friendship, and enduring affection. She had a gift for creating beauty with her hands. She loved making afghans, hooked rugs, and embroidery pieces, each one crafted with care and given with love. She was also known for sending greeting cards to family and friends: small gestures that made others feel remembered and cherished. Above all, she treasured time with her family. Visiting, talking, laughing, and simply being together brought her the greatest joy. Her presence was gentle but deeply felt, and her love will continue to live on in the people she held close.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, April 16th, from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. at Corless-Kunselman Funeral Services, LLC, 3801 4th Avenue, Beaver Falls, who was in charge of her arrangements, and where a service will be held on Friday, April 17th, at 11 a.m.

Eddie Ray Reed (1979-2026)

Eddie Ray Reed, 46, of Independence Township, passed away on April 11th, 2026 in his home after a long illness. He was born in Sewickley on August 11th, 1979, the son of Edward R. Reed and Ivy Boring Reed. In addition to his parents, he is survived by his two daughters, Lauren Loraine Reed and Emily Rae Reed and some great friends.

Eddie worked for many years in Maintenance for the Friendship Ridge in Beaver. He was also a big Pittsburgh Steelers fan and he loved music of all types.

Friends will be received on Thursday, April 16th from 3-7 p.m. in the Huntsman Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Aliquippa, 2345 Mill Street, Aliquippa, who was in charge of his arrangements.

His burial will take place in a family plot at Fockler Cemetery in Saxton, Pennsylvania.

Valerie A. Matotek (1951-2026)

Valerie A. Matotek, 74, passed away on April 11th, 2026, in Beaver Valley Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center. She was born in Beaver Falls on June 19th, 1951, a daughter of the late Frank and Rena (Revelant) Davis.In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, David Davis and brother-in-law, Tom Matotek. She is survived by her loving husband, Stephen Matotek, her son, James (Samantha) Gugliardo, of New Brighton, her sister, Nancy Owens, of Cranberry, her brother, Frank (Diane) Davis, of Denton, Texas, her brother and sister in-laws, Mike (Juanita) Matotek, of Beaver Falls, Bob Matotek, of Ogden, Utah, Joe (Jeanne) Matotek, of Ellicott, Maryland, and Dan (Louise) Matotek, of Murraysville, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and their families, as well as her dog, “Buddy.”

Valerie devoted her life to shaping young minds as a dedicated teacher at Blackhawk Elementary School District, where she spent her entire career before retiring. She was known for her patience, kindness, and unwavering commitment to her students, leaving a lasting impact on generations of children. Beyond the classroom, she had a deep love for travel, always seeking new places, experiences, and memories. Whether near or far, she found joy in exploring the world and embracing all it had to offer.

Friends and family will be received on Thursday, April 16th, from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. at the J&J Spratt Funeral Home Inc., 1612 3rd Avenue, New Brighton, who was in charge of her arrangements, and where prayers will be held on Friday, April 17th, at 10:30 a.m. followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11 am in Holy Family Church, 521 7th Avenue, New Brighton.

Interment will follow at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery, 1501 1st Avenue, New Brighton.

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

Angeline V. “Ange” Alexander (1926-2026)

Angeline V. “Ange” Alexander, 100, a lifelong resident of Monaca and Center Township, passed away peacefully on April 10th, 2026. She was born in Monaca on March 27th, 1926, the beloved and only daughter of the late Julia D’Alessandro and Domenico Lucci. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved husband, James Alexander, her sons, Paul and David, her brothers, John, William (Leo),and Donald Lucci and her sisters, Julia Ciccone and Rose Climo. She is survived by her devoted son, James (Judith) Alexander, her daughter-in-law, Rosemary Melko Alexander, her grandchildren: Melanie (Aaron) Starr, Dante Alexander, Doug Alexander, Jamie Alexander, and Paul Alexander; as well as her treasured great-grandson, Gianni D’Alessandro Alexander and many loving nieces and nephews.

On June 18th, 1949, Angeline married the love of her life, James Alexander. Together they built a warm and devoted home in Center Township, where they raised their three sons: Paul, James, and David. She was a woman of remarkable independence and strength who took great pride in caring for her family: sewing her own clothing, tending her garden, and growing much of the food that graced her table. She had a gift for friendship and community. She cultivated lifelong bonds through joyful gatherings filled with laughter, line dancing, card club, and the sharing of treasured recipes and her famously delicious meals. Her home and heart were always open. She was strong-willed and fiercely independent and embraced each chapter of her life with purpose. After her youngest son began school, she began a career teaching sewing classes through Sears, sharing her talent and passion with others. She will be lovingly remembered by family and friends for the beautiful garments she created, including wedding gowns made with extraordinary care and love. In her retirement years, she continued to live life fully and actively. She found joy in line dancing with local senior groups, nurturing her roses, cooking for those she loved, and staying connected to the world by mastering new technology and keeping up with current events on her computer. She continued to make memorable Sunday, birthday, and holiday dinners until the end. Her curiosity and spirit never waned. She will be remembered for her strength, her warmth, her creativity, and the deep love she gave so freely to her family and friends. Her legacy lives on in the lives she touched and the traditions she lovingly passed down.

Friends will be received on Wednesday, April 15th from 2- 4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. at SIMPSON FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES, 1119 Washington Avenue, Monaca, who was in charge of her arrangements, and where prayers will be offered on Thursday, April 16th at 9:30 a.m. followed by a Mass of Christian burial at 10 a.m. at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, 1409 Pennsylvania Avenue, Monaca. Entombment will follow in Sylvania Hills Mausoleum, 273 PA-68, Rochester.

Shirley J. Gallagher (1934-2026)

Shirley J Gallagher, 91, of Aliquippa, passed away on April 8th, 2026 at Harmony Haus in Ambridge. She was born on November 13th, 1934 in Blairsville, Pennsylvania. Her parents were Charles Dallas Eales and Louise Cristina Jellison.

Shirley graduated from Rochester High School in 1952  and spent her life in the field of Music. She married Charles L Pike on June 21, 1952 and built a career as a Piano, Organ and Vocal teacher as well as Choir director and Organist for various Churches in the Beaver Valley area. She was known for establishing the Center Civics Woman’s Club. In September of 1962, Shirley traveled to Philadelphia to the Federation of Woman’s Clubs to establish the Center Civic Woman’s Club. By the very next month, the October member’s program, showed the membership was over 80 people. She retired as Business Manager from Pediatrics Associates, Beaver. After retiring, she and her husband Bob enjoyed traveling visiting Israel, Alaska, Nova Scotia and many cities across the United States.

She is survived by her children, Dennis Pike, Richard Pike (Eleanor) and Kathy Lee Tolfa, her stepchildren, Kevin Gallagher and Debbie (Dan) Motter, her grandchildren: Daniel Pike (Rachael), Christopher Pike (Melissa), Betsy Pedicone (Steve), Angelo Lee Tolfa, Adam Tolfa (Alissa), Zach Perl, Alex Perl (Katya), Talia Gallagher and Zachary Motter; along with her great grandchildren; Emma & Cooper Pike, Seth & Andrew Pedicone, Anastasia & Kassius Tolfa, Marcello Perl; as well as her sibling ,Bonita Landers, many nieces, nephews, and numerous beloved friends. She was preceded in death by her spouses, Charles Pike and Robert Gallagher and her siblings: Charlotte Somerville, Patrica Mara, Jeanne Wolfe, and Thomas Eales.

A Visitation and a memorial/celebration of life will be held on Monday, April 13th from 4pm until the time of a funeral service at 7 p.m. officiated by Reverend Don Hurray.7 pm at Huntsman Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Aliquippa, 2345 Mill Street,
Aliquippa, who was in charge of her arrangements.

Francis J. “Frank” Laughlin (1929-2026)

Francis J. Laughlin, 96, of Brighton Township, passed away at Good Samaritan Hospice House in Wexford on April 10th, 2026 in the presence of his loving wife of 63 years, Barbara (Craft) Laughlin. He was born in Piedmont, West Virginia on April 16th, 1929, a son of the late Joseph T. and Ann (Miller) Laughlin. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Charles J. and Joseph T. Laughlin; and his stepfather, Joseph Fradiska; and his beloved dog, Sandy.

He was a 1947 graduate of St. Peter’s High School in Westernport, Maryland and a Korean War veteran serving with the U.S. Army Engineers from 1948-1952.

Frank moved to Beaver shortly after where he later met and then married Barbara in 1962. He was a supportive and generous father to James F. Laughlin (Bryanne Tyler) of Bowling Green, Ohio and Catherine A. Lienhard (Kevin) of Allentown. He enjoyed watching his five grandchildren grow into adulthood and will be missed by Emily, Melanie, and Noah Laughlin as well as Matthew and Abigail Lienhard.

While Frank was a talented baseball catcher in his earlier days, he chose to provide for himself and his family with his equally impressive skills as a Master Craftsman at St. Joe Lead Co in Monaca and then at Ohio Edison (First Energy) in Shippingport, retiring as Welding Certification Administrator and Maintenance Coordinator.

In his free time, he took meticulous care of his home, yard, and cars. He enjoyed golfing with Barbara and his various golf groups and then when no longer able to amble on fairways and greens he spent his days assembling 1,000-piece jigsaw puzzles. He was a faithful member of Saints Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Beaver and served for a long time as an usher.

Friends will be received on Tuesday, April 14th from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. in the Noll Funeral Home Inc., 333 Third Street, Beaver, who was in charge of his arrangements. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Wednesday, April 15th at 10 a.m. at Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church, 200 Third Street, Beaver.

Interment and Full Military Rites will follow at Beaver Cemetery, Buffalo Street, Beaver.

The family would like to give special thanks to Good Samaritan Hospice House and all the medical professionals who provided care.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial contribution to Beaver County Humane Society, 3394 Brodhead Road, Aliquippa, PA 15001; Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Parish 200 Third St, Beaver, PA 15009; or Good Samaritan Hospice House c/o Concordia Lutheran Ministries Foundation, 134 Marwood Rd, Cabot, PA 16023 (give.ConcordiaLM.org).

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Francis J. (Frank) Laughlin, please visit the flower store of the Noll Funeral Home, Inc. of Beaver by clicking here.

Davida G. Petrie (1931-2026)

Davida G. Petrie, 94, of Aliquippa, passed away on April 9th, 2026 at Concordia Villa St. Joseph. She was born in the Squirrel Hill neighborhood of Pittsburgh on April 13th, 1931, a daughter of the late Joseph and Edith Lazear. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Howard Petrie, her son, Alan Green, her sister & brother-in-law, Isa Keller (Bill) and a nephew, Richard Keller. She is survived by her daughter, Lisa & Marco Ferrara of Center Township, a granddaughter, Alicia (Corinna French) Ferrara of Gainesville, Florida, a niece: Edie & Bob Kreider of Beaver Creek, Ohio and a daughter-in-law, Tina Green.

Davida graduated from Carnegie Mellon University with a Master’s Degree in Music. She retired from teaching, first at Center School District then the majority of her career at Blackhawk School District as a Music Teacher. She also taught music privately. She loved to be on stage.  She would audition and perform in musicals throughout her life. She spent many years performing with the Beaver Valley Choral Society. She also had a great love for animals, especially dogs and cats and spent her later years volunteering with the Beaver County Humane Society.  She also was a member of the Red Hat Society and volunteered with the Senior Center at the Beaver Valley Mall.

A Memorial Service will be held on Tuesday, April 14th at 4 p.m. in Huntsman Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Aliquippa. 2345 Mill St. Aliquippa, who was in charge of her arrangements.