Category: Obituaries

Thomas J. Vukovich (1940-2026)

Thomas J. Vukovich, 86, of Chippewa, formerly of Aliquippa, passed away on June 30th, 2026 at Heritage Valley Beaver.

He was born in Aliquippa on April 27th, 1940, a son of the late Matthew and Mary (Zeger) Vukovich.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two sisters, Rose M. Vas and Mary Ann Paxton, a brother, Carl J. Vukovich, two brothers-in-law, Joseph E. Vas and Richard J. Paxton as well as an infant sister, Ann.
He is survived by his loving companion, Charmagne Evans and her extended family, along with many loving nieces, nephews, cousins and devoted, life-long friends.
Thomas was a United States Army Veteran who served during the Vietnam War. Upon discharge, he worked for J & L Steel for a short time, until finding his niche in the athletic sporting goods field, working for All American and eventually retiring from Riddell. He enjoyed watching and following all sports and was an avid Aliquippa Quips fan, rarely missing a game. Additionally, he enjoyed traveling and playing golf.
He was a devoted member of the former St. Josephs Roman Catholic Church in West Aliquippa (now Mary Queen of Saints Parish, St. Titus Church) in Aliquippa, and served his church faithfully through his dedication and ministry as an usher for many years. He will always be remembered for his generous nature and love of family.A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Titus Church, 952 Franklin Avenue, Aliquippa, on Wednesday, July 8th at 10 a.m. Interment will follow in Mt. Olivet Catholic Cemetery, 2186 Brodhead Road, Aliquippa, with full military honors.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Anthony Mastrofrancesco Funeral Home, Inc., 2026 McMinn Street, Aliquippa.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly suggests memorial donations be made in his memory to Mary Queen of Saints Parish. The family would like to thank the doctors and nursing staff at Heritage Valley Hospital in Beaver for their dedicated and compassionate care over the past few weeks.

Thomas was dearly loved and will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Thomas J. Vukovich please visit the Sympathy Store of the Anthony Mastrofrancesco Funeral Home, Inc. by clicking here.

Harold Thomas (Tommy) Irons (1961-2026)

Harold Thomas (Tommy) Irons, 64, passed away on July 3rd, 2026.

He was born in Aliquippa Hospital on November 10th, 1961, the third of four children of Robert and Irene (Winkle) Irons. In addition to his parents and his nephew, David A. Snow. He is survived by his sisters Donna (Lee) Irons-Zimmerman and Melissa Ruttan and a brother, Elvin Irons, six nieces and nephews, two great-nieces and a great-nephew.

Harold graduated from New Horizon School where he was nicknamed ‘the greeter’ and he learned sign language after being assigned the task of walking a fellow student to her class. He also attended HAP Enterprises. He was a member of Service United Presbyterian Church in Aliquippa, often welcoming members each Sunday with a firm handshake and a bulletin and collecting the offering. His singing of Doxology was distinguished and memorable. He participated in Special Olympics and won several ribbons. His favorite holiday was a birthday, his own and others, never missing an opportunity to sing “Happy Birthday.” He loved food, ice cream, country music, and dancing. He loved to be dressed in his suit and tie and never missed a chance to dance at family gatherings. He was known for his impeccable manners, hugs, and kisses. Tommy was loved by all who cared for him and left behind cherished stories from family, friends, and caregivers who worked with him daily. No one was ever above his gregarious, loving soul.He was born before the societal acceptance of Downs Syndrome felt today. He enjoyed a life of inclusion by his immediate and extended family. He was a beloved son and brother who extended joy to everyone he met. His smile was quick, his love unending. He was a shining witness of God’s commandment in John 13:34 to “Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.”

Family and friends will be received on Thursday, July 9th from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m., and on Friday, July 10th, from 10-11 a.m., followed by a service presided over by Pastor Tom Knowles of Christian House Baptist Chapel at the Huntsman Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Aliquippa, 2345 Mill Street, Aliquippa, who was in charge of his arrangements. Burial will follow at John Anderson Memorial Cemetery, 491 Service Church Road, Aliquippa. A reception will be held with details provided later.

In lieu of flowers, the Irons-Zimmerman family requests that donations be made in Tommy’s honor to Special Olympics of PA, 2570 Boulevard of the Generals, Suite 124, Norristown, PA 19403 or online at https://specialolympicspa.org (click here).

The Irons-Zimmerman family would like to acknowledge Tim O’Neill, Verland, who was a tireless advocate for Tommy and shared a great bond. We also recognize Merakey/AVS caregivers for their love and affection for Tommy, especially those who visited him in hospital during his final days. A deep thanks and appreciation to Dr. Tracy Irons-Dieterle for her medical guidance when requested, ensuring Tommy’s best interests were always represented.

Timothy A. Quest (1962-2026)

Timothy A. Quest, 63, of Aliquippa, passed away on July 5th, 2026, at Allegheny General Hospital, Pittsburgh.

He was born in Beaver Falls on September 26th, 1962, the son of Thelma L. Lash Quest, Patterson Township, and the late Otis H. Quest. In addition to his father, he was preceded in death by his wife, Verna Dean “Allen” Quest. He is survived by one daughter and son in law, Michelle and Rick Catchings of Texas, one son, Isaac T. Quest of Aliquippa and three grandchildren, Ember Rayne Elkins, Trinity J. Elkins and Maverick M. Quest. He is also survived by three sisters and brothers in law, Cyndy Bailey (Michael), Laura Crognale ( Hank), Tracy Guthrie (Kevin) and several nieces and nephews.

Timothy was a retired employee with Eaton Corporation in Vanport.

In accordance with Timothy’s wishes, he will be cremated with no services.

Arrangements have been entrusted to William Murphy Funeral Home, Inc., 349 Adams Street, Rochester.

The family has requested memorial contributions may be made to the Beaver County Humane Society, 3394 Brodhead Road, Aliquippa, PA 15001 in Timothy’s memory.

Samuel “Sam” J. Bechtel (1943-2026)

Samuel “Sam” J. Bechtel, 83, formerly of Beaver, passed away on June 29th, 2026.

He was born in Rochester on March 24th, 1943, the son of the late Joseph and Laura Poole Bechtel. He is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Jill and Brian Kemme, of Blue Ash, Ohio, his grandson, Owen Kemme, of Blue Ash, Ohio, his former wife, Christine Bechtel of Blue Ash, Ohio, his sister, Kathy Noll, of Vanport, his brother and sister-in-law, Kurt and Debbie Bechtel, of Maryland, as well as his nieces and nephews.

Samuel was a 1961 graduate of Beaver Area High School. After attending Indiana University of Pennsylvania, he started his career as a Journalist at the Indiana Gazette. In February of 1971, he joined the Beaver County Times where he worked for 13 years as both a reporter and the sports department editor. He was the first Beaver County sports reporter to regularly cover the Pittsburgh Steelers. He also covered the Pittsburgh Pirates, the 1971 World Series, Super Bowl IX and Super Bowl X. In 2022, he was inducted into the Beaver County Sports Hall of Fame in recognition of his work at the Times. He later worked from 1984 through 1992 at the Pittsburgh Press as deputy sports editor and then returned to the Indiana Gazette until he retired in 2004 ending a 37-year career. He retired to live in Cape Coral, Florida. After spending nearly 10 years in Florida, he moved to Cincinnati, Ohio to be closer to his daughter and grandson.

A Memorial Visitation will be held on Thursday, July 9th from 11 a.m. until the time of Memorial Service at 1 p.m. at the Noll Funeral Home Inc., 333 Third Street, Beaver, who was in charge of his arrangements.

Inurnment to follow in the Beaver Cemetery, Buffalo Street, Beaver.

To send flowers or plant a memorial tree in memory, please visit the flower store of the Noll Funeral Home, Inc. by clicking here.

Charles Leroy “Buddy” Wooley (1951-2026)

Charles Leroy “Buddy” Wooley, 75, of Brighton Township, formerly of Beaver Falls, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on July 4th, 2026, in Heritage Valley Beaver.

He was born in New Brighton on January 9th, 1951, the son of the late Charles Robert and Anna E. Giles Wooley. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister and her husband, Bonnie and Danny Mitchell. He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Nancy J. Bradow Wooley, two daughters and sons in law, Michelle and Dr. Joseph Kelly and Amber and Leonard Skidmore, six grandchildren, whom he could not have loved and cherished more. His life revolved around his grandkids and his love for them and special moments with them is and will be everlasting, from his early morning phone calls with Mason to evening conversations with Lex and Kam. They are: Mason Miller, Alexa Skidmore, Kamryn Kelly and Anthony Miller; as well as two great-grandchildren, Jerry Cunningham and Jensen Skidmore, two nieces and their spouses, Staci Delp and her husband, Dominic and their children, Ashlee and Alexis Delp and Kristi Nelson and her husband, Dr. Aaron Nelson, one nephew, Pastor Brad Moore and his wife, Kara, a sister in law and her husband, Marilyn and Duane Moore, and a former son in law, Keith Miller and his wife, Erica.

Charles was a former machinist for the former St. Joe Lead Company, a former Nuclear Security Manager at Shippingport, a member of Chippewa United Methodist Church and a Veteran of The United States Army where he received the “National Defense Service Medal” and also accelerated in sharpshooting and cooking. Buddy was also passionate about two more things, his family and The Pittsburgh Steelers !! He loved both fiercely which would be on display every Sunday for family, The Pittsburgh Steelers and food!

Friends will be received Tuesday, July 7th, from 3-6 p.m., in the William Murphy Funeral Home, Inc., 349 Adams Street, Rochester, who was in charge of his arrangements, and where a service will be conducted at 6:15 p.m. by Pastor Brad Moore.

In lieu of flowers, the family is suggesting donations be made to the Chippewa United Methodist Church, 2545 Darlington Road, Beaver Falls, PA 15010.

Burial will take place at The Cemetery of the Alleghenies, 11587 Morgan Road, Bridgeville, at a later date. Full Military Honors will be provided by the Vietnam Veterans of America, Chapter #862.

Helen Gause (1928-2026)

Helen Gause, 98, of Ambridge, a beloved wife, mom, and grandma, passed away on July 4th, 2026. She was born on January 15th, 1928, and was preceded in death by her parents, John and Katherine Soltis Sokolowsky, her loving husband, Peter Gause Sr., two brothers, John and Harry Sokolowsky, and three sisters Anne Essek, Katie Boyt, and Mary Sokolowsky.

She is survived by her daughter, Katherine (Roger) Miller, two sons, Peter (Ausra) Gause III, and Gregory Gause, her two gifted grandchildren, Aaron and Elaina Miller, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Helen was known for her cheerful and pleasant demeanor and had a spicy side that endeared her to all who knew her. Her life was a testament to faith and trust in God, guiding her through every challenge. She will be remembered as a completely selfless and very generous person who brought immense joy to everyone around her. Her laughter, smiles, and jokes were a constant source of cheer. She was blessed with the strength of Christ by her side through every challenge. She was also very loved by a very special niece who supported her throughout the years as well as many loving family members, special caregivers, and most of all her children and two grandchildren. Her life was defined by her sweetness, kindness, and selflessness. Her guiding principle was BELIEF and following God’s will. She worked hard throughout her life, especially as a mom and grandma, as well as at Westinghouse in Beaver and other jobs to help support her family. She was an active member of the Saints Peter and Paul Ukrainian Catholic Church and choir in Ambridge in her younger years where her grandchildren continued to grow in faith as members of the youth group. Her legacy of love, laughter, strength and faith will continue to inspire all who knew her. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered in the hearts of her family and friends.

A Visitation will be held on Tuesday, July 7th from 3-7 P.M. in the John Syka Funeral Home, Inc., 833 Kennedy Drive, Ambridge, who was in charge of her arrangements, and where a prayer service will be held on Wednesday, July 8th at 10 A.M. followed by a church service at 10:30 A.M. in the Saints Peter & Paul Ukrainian Catholic Church, 404 6th Street, Ambridge, with Father Michael Polosky officiating.

In Lieu of flowers the family asks donations to be made to the Saints Peter and Paul Youth Group 404 6th Street, Ambridge, PA 15003 or to Veterans First.

John A. Morrow, Sr. (1938-2026)

John A. Morrow, Sr., 88, formerly of Raccoon Township, and most recently of Brighton Township, passed away on July 2nd, 2026, at St. Barnabas Beaver Meadows.
He was born on February 8th, 1938, the son of the late Lee and Helen Morrow.

John was a 1957 graduate of Hopewell High School, where he played varsity football and earned the nickname “Mouse.” He also played youth baseball for the Raccoon Boys Club.
He retired after 40 years with St. Joe Lead, later known as ZCA and Horsehead Industries. During those years, he enjoyed bowling, golfing, and playing softball with his co-workers and friends. For many years, he organized annual golf trips to South Carolina with friends. After retirement, he worked as a starter at Blackhawk Golf Course. He was also a member of the Masonic Lodge in New Castle. He enjoyed golfing, hunting, and trips “south” to the casino. He was a long-time baseball coach for the Raccoon Boys Club and helped develop the Raccoon Township Municipal Park, where he spent countless hours maintaining the baseball fields and cutting the grass. He rarely missed an opportunity to watch his grandson, “Nate” Angelo, play baseball for Central Valley, the Diamond Dawgs, and the Pittsburgh Fusion, often traveling out of state to attend games. He also enjoyed spending time with his faithful canine companions, Dixie and Chloe, and his dogs, Roxy, Macie, and Quesi.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved son, John A. “Kip” Morrow, Jr., M.D., his sister-in-law, Diane Van Leeuwen and his parents-in-law, Mike and Olga Briscoe. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Matilda “Tillie” Morrow, his devoted daughters, Melissa “Missy” (Brian) Angelo and Michelle “Tink” Morrow, his grandson, Nathan “Nate” Angelo, his sisters, Sue (Robert) Shemer, Nancy Lombard, and Grace Steele, his brother-in-law, Kent Van Leeuwen and many nieces and nephews from the Van Leeuwen, Shemer, Lombard, and Steele/Vogan families.
Family and friends will be received on Wednesday, July 8th, from 5:30 p.m. until the time of the funeral service at 6:30 p.m. at the Huntsman Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Aliquippa, 2345 Mill Street, Aliquippa, who was in charge of his arrangements. Rev. Collene Carney of Monacrest Free Methodist Church will officiate, assisted by Chaplain Kelli Connolly of St. Barnabas.
Private interment will take place at John Anderson Cemetery in Raccoon Township.
The family would like to thank the nursing and hospice staff at St. Barnabas Beaver Meadows for their loving, compassionate care and kindness.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Beaver County Humane Society, 3394 Brodhead Road, Aliquippa, PA 15001.

Colonel (Ret.) Daniel G. (“Dean”) Kniola (1948-2026)

Colonel (Ret.) Daniel G. “Dean” Kniola, 77, of Crescent, passed away peacefully on July 2nd, 2026. He was born on December 30th, 1948, and is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Judith (Schnippert), his son, Major Scott Kniola (USAF, Ret.) and his wife, Bridget, Daughter-in-Law, Maggie, and three grown grandchildren, Samuel T., Olivia R., and Maxwel T., his sisters, Mary Grace (Mike) Landrum, and Kathleen Repko, as well as many cherished nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his son ,Todd and his grandson, Joseph.

Retired Colonel Dean was a 1970 graduate of the USAF Academy (AFA) and retired honorably after 28 years active duty, earning the rank of Colonel and a Master’s Degree in Engineering Physics. He served as a laser project engineer, Asst. Prof. of Mathematics at the AFA, Vice Commander of an engineering analysis center, Assoc. Dir. of the Joint Communications Engineering Center in Washington DC, Commander of a nuclear forensics laboratory, and in other technical leadership positions. When he retiring from the AFA, he worked 10 years as Director of Market Research for BNY Mellon Inc. in Pittsburgh. His interest in graphic design led to placements of his artwork in regional museum juried shows and two pieces in the AFA Art Collection, including a 64-foot “Space Age” mural at the USAF Academy. He was especially blessed to serve in various roles in the Knights of Columbus Council 2555. He also coordinated the ChristLife program at a parish in Pittsburgh’s South Hills for five years and served on parish councils.

Viewings will be held on Monday, July 6th from 6-8 p.m. and Tuesday, July 7th from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m., at Huntsman Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Moon Township, 1522 Coraopolis Heights Road, Coraopolis, who was in charge of his arrangements.

A Mass of Christian Burial will also be held on Wednesday, July 8th at 10 a.m. at St Joseph Roman Catholic Church, 1304 4th Avenue, Coraopolis.

Chase James Morack (1982-2026)

Chase James Morack, 44, of Beaver Falls, passed away on July 2nd, 2026, in Allegheny General Hospital in Pittsburgh.

He was born on June 26, 1982 and was deeply loved by his family and friends. He was known for his kind heart, his loyalty and lasting friendships he cultivated throughout his life.

He is survived by his parents, Rickie and Richard Probert, his brothers, Creighton (Carol) Morack, Chris (Nikki) Probert, and Josh (Michelle) Probert, his nieces and nephews: Haley, Austin, Taylor, Lexi, and Andrew Probert; as well as his aunt and uncle, Sue and Shawn Chaplin, his cousin, Jordan Chaplin, his college friends, Jon Herbert and Mark McKillip, and Mark’s Children, Henry and Lacey.

He was preceded in death by his father, James C. Morack, his maternal grandparents, Jacqueline P. Okon and Richard Edwards, and his paternal grandparents, James and Adeline Morack.

Chase was a 2000 graduate of New Brighton High School and a 2004 graduate of Washington and Jefferson College, where he played football. He spent many years as an employment recruiter for various companies throughout the Pittsburgh area including the Port Authority of Allegheny County and most recently for Desotec.

The family wants to thank the Allegheny General Hospital nurses on floor six and nine for their excellent care and attention to Chase and the Palliative care staff for their compassion during this difficult time.

Friends will be received on Tuesday, July 7th from 2-4 P.M. & 6 P.M. until the time of a service at 8 P.M. in the GABAUER-LUTTON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, INC., 117 Blackhawk Road, Beaver Falls, who was in charge of his arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested memorial donations be made to Tunnels to Towers in Chase’s name, may do so online or by mail. https://t2t.org/donate/ (click here) or make your check out to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, 2361 Hylan Boulevard, Staten Island, NY 10306

Marie “Mary” (Santangelo) Marsilio (1928-2026)

Marie “Mary” (Santangelo) Marsilio, 97, of Baden, passed away peacefully on July 1st, 2026. She was born on December 29th, 1928, the daughter of the late Frank and Eugenia Santangelo. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Lou Marsilio, her cherished daughter, Genie Mikulich, her stepmother, Maria Santangelo; and her granddaughter, Erin Holsinger.

She is survived by her loving children, Marylou (Tom) Holsinger and Anthony (Marianne) Marsilio, seven grandchildren, sixteen great-grandchildren, and many extended family members and friends who will cherish her memory.

Marie retired from J.C. Penney, where she worked for many years working at the former Baden store. She was a devoted member of the former St. John the Baptist Church and generously dedicated countless hours of service to her parish. She faithfully served as President of the Christian Mothers, was well known for pinching pierogi, and volunteered at numerous church functions and events. She also devoted her time to serving the residents of Villa St. Joseph in Baden.

Above all, she was a devoted wife, loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and loyal friend. She will be fondly remembered for her sassiness, quick wit, infectious laughter, and her love of playing bingo. Her warmth, generosity, and unwavering faith touched the lives of all who knew her.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Sisters of St. Joseph, 1020 State Street, Baden, PA 15005.

Family and friends will be received on Monday, July 6th 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 departing prayers will be offered at 9:30 a.m. on Tuesday, July 7th, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. at Good Samaritan Catholic Church, 725 Glenwood Avenue, Ambridge. Interment will follow at Sylvania Hills Memorial Park, 273 PA-68, Rochester.