Category: Obituaries

Joseph R. Bauman, III (1941-2026)

Joseph R. Bauman, III, 84, of Patterson Township, passed away peacefully in the early morning hours of May 8th, 2026.

He was born in Beaver Falls on November 4th, 1941, the son of Joseph R. Jr. and Elizabeth (Conrady) Bauman. He is survived by his loving wife, Sandy (Verban) Bauman, a son, Jeffrey Bauman, his daughter, Kristen (Eli) Kosanovich, his cherished granddaughter, Emily Bauman, his sisters, Kristan (Jim) Henn and Bobbie Trimmer; as well as his nieces, nephews, and many friends.

Joseph spent his lifetime as owner and president of Bauman Office Equipment in downtown Beaver Falls, where he enjoyed building lasting relationships and friendships with clients. He was a member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Beaver Falls of St. Augustine Parish, a long time member of the Beaver County Foundation Board of Directors, and a Past President and member of the Beaver Falls Rotary Club.  In his free time, he appreciated a good game of golf, reading the newspaper in his recliner, sharing “beer-thirty” Friday afternoon with friends, and spending precious time with his family.

Friends will be received on Friday, May 15th 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 prayers will be offered on Saturday, May 16th at 9:30 a.m. followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. at St. Monica Catholic Church, 116 Thorndale Drive, Beaver Falls.

Entombment will be private at St. Mary’s Cemetery Mausoleum, 2927 Clayton Road, Beaver Falls.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations in Joseph’s memory to Beaver County Foundation, PO Box 569, Beaver, PA 15009.

Richard Frankovic (1942-2026)

Richard Frankovic, 83, passed away on May 5th, 2026 at Hilton Head Island, South Carolina.

He was born in Passaic, New Jersey on July 11th, 1942, a son of the late Elizabeth Birish and Edward Frankovic. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Gerard Frankovic. He is survived by his wife, Loretta Frankovic, his brother, Edward J. (Beth) Frankovic, his sisters-in-law, Eleanor (John) Tomsic and Joyce (Richard) Tomsic, 11 nieces and nephews, 22 great nieces and nephews and 3 great great nieces and nephews.

Richard acquired his great love for the Lord and his religion from his family and his Catholic education; a love that he carried and exhibited throughout his life. He earned a BS in Mechanical Engineering from Stevens Institute of Technology and a MS in Finance from Columbia University. Both served him well in his varied career in the pharmaceutical business. While working for American Cyanamid’s Lederle division in Pearl River, New York, he met his life partner, Loretta (Lorie) Tomsic. They married in 1976 and enjoyed a blessed life together polishing their successful careers; giving of their time to religious, family, community, and environmental endeavors; traveling extensively with dear friends and growing in their faith and love.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 A.M. on Thursday, May 28th, at St. Monica Catholic Church, 116 Thorndale Drive, Beaver Falls, with internment to follow. Arrangements have been entrusted to the J&J Spratt Funeral Home, Inc., 1612 Third Avenue, New Brighton.

One of the biggest joys in his life was his involvement in helping the poor through the St. Vincent de Paul Society; a giving of himself that he avidly pursued during the 25 years of his retirement.

He would want to be remembered in prayer and if you desire, through a thoughtful donation to the Society of St. Vincent de Paul (SVDP) Conference; 24 Pope Avenue, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928.

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

Jean M. Lloyd (1936-2026)

Jean M. Lloyd, 89, passed away peacefully at Franciscan Manor with family by her side on May 7th, 2026, after a long decline in health. She was born on July 15th, 1936. She was preceded in death by her parents, Gilson and Marie McClure, her brother, Gilson McClure II, her son, Jeff Lloyd II, and her grandson, Jeff Lloyd III. She is survived by her husband of 65 years, Paul Jefferson Lloyd, her sister-in-law, Penny McClure, her daughter, Essie (Chris) Commers, her daughter in law, Lori Kennedy Lloyd, her grandsons, Brandon (Sam) Lloyd and Tom Commers and her great grandson, Oliver Lloyd.

Jean grew up in Brighton Township, graduating from Beaver High School and Wilson College. In 1960 she married Paul Lloyd and, after a brief time in Ohio, they returned to Beaver. She loved spending time with her family and was a kind, delightful friend and neighbor to everyone she met. She was a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Beaver. She sang in the choir and served in Hodge Band. She worked 20 years for the Beaver County Times in Ad Service and Proofreading before retiring.

Jean was happiest outside. She was an avid gardener, growing vegetables and flowers which she shared with all. She loved all creatures and had a soft spot for cats, of which there were many. She was athletic and curious and enjoyed any adventure that took her into the wider world whether it was golfing, canoeing or strolling through a beautiful meadow. The natural world was sacred to her and she was tender toward the most vulnerable among us. She had a quick wit, loved a good laugh and wasn’t afraid to be silly. Though she was thrifty to the core, her playful, creative spirit and service to others brought a life of abundance which blessed everyone who knew her.

A celebration of life will be held on Monday, May 18th from 2-4 p.m. at the Beaver Pool House in Beaver. Special thanks goes out to Franciscan Manor and Good Samaritan Hospice for their compassionate care in the last four months of Jean’s life. Memorials preferred to the Beaver County Humane Society, 3394 Brodhead Road, Aliquippa, PA 15001. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Noll Funeral Home, Inc, 333 Third Street, Beaver.

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

Wayne H. “Buddy” Meyers, Jr. (1959-2026)

Wayne H. “Buddy” Meyers, Jr., 67, of New Brighton, passed away unexpectedly on May 6th, 2026 in his home.

He was born in Penn Hills on March 16th, 1959, the son of the late Wayne H. Meyers, Sr. and Helen Meyers. He is survived by his fiancée, Janet Nagy, his children, Rebecca (Brock Bowles) and Joseph (Mya Yates), his grandson, Bastion Bowles, his stepdaughters, Sara and Mary Nagy, his step granddaughter, Paisley Borsuk, his sisters: Barbara (Allen) Lockard, Nancy (Paul) Feight, Judy Brown and Amy (James) Seroky; along with several nieces and nephews.

Wayne lived a full life filled with family, music, outdoors, baseball, hockey, his best four-legged friend Bandit, and his newest passion for astrophotography.

There will be no visitation for Wayne. However, a celebration of life ceremony will be held at a later date. Arrangements have been entrusted to Simpson Funeral and Cremation Services, 1119 Washington Avenue, Monaca.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the National Kidney Foundation.

Melva C. Krupa (Passed on May 4th, 2026)

Melva C. Krupa, 83, passed away on May 4th, 2026, at her residence in Potter Township, leaving behind a life that was as warm, witty, and wonderfully mischievous as anyone who ever knew her could remember.

She was born and raised in Ellwood City. She was preceded in death by her parents, Melvin L. and Ladydot Butler, as well as two sisters and a brother. She is survived by her husband of 60 years, Stanley C. Krupa, her daughter, Suzanne Stillwagon, her son, Keith Krupa and his wife, Remilie, her grandson, Khristensen Krupa and his wife, Selena and numerous nieces and nephews who were fortunate enough to know her presence and her unforgettable personality.

After her husband Stanley’s discharge from the U.S. Marine Corps in 1966, the couple moved to Beaver County, where she started a family and a reputation for being the kind of woman who could make an ordinary day feel like a punchline with excellent timing. Melva lived with a heart that seemed to believe in kindness, laughter, and the occasional harmless prank. She was a homemaker who enjoyed crocheting and gardening, both of which suited her perfectly, because she had the patience to create something beautiful and the stubbornness to keep it alive. She also loved vacationing at the beach in Nags Head, North Carolina, a place that clearly held a special place in her heart. One of the memorable quotes associated with her was, “She will see everyone in Nags Head, N.C.,” which sounds less like a statement and more like a cheerful warning from someone who knew she had plans to keep an eye on everybody. She was also a devoted daily shopper, making regular stops at either Giant Eagle or Walmart, which is the sort of dependable routine that says a great deal about a person. Some people collect stamps. Some people collect antiques. Melva collected practical errands and turned them into a social event. She welcomed any stray animal, and she welcomed any animal her daughter Suzanne brought home, which means her household was likely one part home and one part open-door policy for creatures with no better plan. That kind of generosity was simply who she was. She gave freely, loved deeply, and never seemed to out of room for one more person, one more pet, or one more joke. Her sense of humor was tremendous. She loved to play tricks on family members. If laughter is a form of love, then she loved her people loudly.

Friends will be received on Tuesday, May 12th for a service at 1 P.M. at the Locust Grove Cemetery Chapel in Ellwood City. Arrangements have been entrusted to Simpson Funeral and Cremation Services, 1119 Washington Avenue, Monaca.

Alice May Vogler (1938-2026)

Alice May Vogler, 87, of North Sewickley Township, passed away on May 9th, 2026, at Concordia Villa St. Joseph of Baden. She was born in North Sewickley Township on July 21st, 1938, a daughter of the late Charles Clifford Vogler and Vesta Anna Miller Vogler. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by two brothers, Leroy Vogler and Ronald Vogler, four sisters: Ellen Teets, Minnie Riddle, Nancy Vogler, and Mary Vogler; as well as one niece, Kathy Vogler Madigan. She is survived by one sister-in-law, Carol Vogler, three nieces, Janice Teets, Michelle Landsbaugh, and Lisa Tritt, and five nephews: James Riddle, Randal Vogler, Dennis Teets, Scott Teets, and Kevin Teets. She is also survived by one aunt, Dolores McDanel, and numerous great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins.

Alice was a member of the Brush Run Global Methodist Church in Beaver Falls and worked at the McGuire Memorial Home in New Brighton. Friends will be received on Friday, May 15th from 3 P.M. until the time of service at 7 P.M. in the CORLESS-KUNSELMAN FUNERAL SERVICES, LLC, 3801 4th Avenue, Beaver Falls, who was in charge of her arrangements, with her pastor, Dr. Gary Bailey officiating. Private burial will take place in Concord Church Cemetery. The family would like to thank all the staff at Villa St. Joseph for the care that was given to Alice. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Brush Run Methodist Church, 1216 Blackhawk Road, Beaver Falls, PA 15010, or to the Activities Dept. of Villa St. Joseph in Baden, 1030 State Street Baden, PA 15005.

Christopher Eakles (1979-2026)

Christopher Eakles, 46, of Aliquippa, passed away unexpectedly on May 9th, 2026 at his home. He was born in Rochester on June 30th, 1979, a son of Lila Ann (Welsh) and Ray Eakles Jr. In addition to his parents, he is survived by his three children, Harley (Derek Scott) Eakles, Skylar Eakles, and Logan Eakles, his brother, Ray Newton (Maria Brown) Eakles III, his grandchildren, Analeia Smith and Windham Scott, his step-siblings, Cassandra Green, Kimberly Dawn Baxter, and Brandon Green, his nieces: Madison Rae Eakles, Lila Eileen Eakles, Lacey Brown, and Trinity Gourley, his uncle, Anthony Wayne Welsh, a friend whom he looked at as a brother, Tim Bradley, and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

Christopher proudly served his country in the United States Army and carried that same strength, dedication, and resilience throughout his life. He was also a hardworking grinder at Shasta Inc.

He was the kind of person who filled ever room with energy, laughter, and love. He had a larger-than-life personality and a heart that matched. Family meant everything to him, and he made sure the people he loved felt it whether through his booming laugh, his unforgettable bear hugs, or simply being there when needed.

Chris truly lived life out loud. He loved loud music, horror movies, and spending time outdoors. Some of his happiest moments were spent fishing, sitting around bonfires, and enjoying the simple peace of nature. He also loved food and took great pride in making his chili, which became a favorite comfort meal for everyone.

Deeply creative and artistic, Chris had a natural talent for art. He appreciated beauty in all forms and used his creativity to bring joy to himself and those around him. Whether he was making people laugh, sharing stories around a fire, or creating something meaningful through art, Chris left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.

Family and friends will be received on Wednesday, May 13th, from 5 P.M. until the time of a service at 7 P.M., at the J&J Spratt Funeral Home, Inc., 1612 3rd Avenue, New Brighton, who was in charge of his arrangements.

Chris will be laid to rest at the National Cemetery of the Alleghenies, 1158 Morgan Road, Bridgeville.

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

Anna Lego Gnan (1933-2026)

Anna Lego Gnan, 93, of Aliquippa, (Hopewell Township) passed away on May 8th, 2026, at her home surrounded by her loving family.

She was born in Osceola Mills, Pennsylvania on March 26th, 1933, a daughter of the late Michael and Anna Trokan Lego. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Richard J. Gnan, as well as thirteen siblings, and two sons-in-law, Jerry P. Sutton and Tim J. Ciccozzi, one grandson in law, Michael Buchanan and her canine companion, Fluffy. She is survived by two daughters and a son-in-law, Judith A. Sutton, of Hopewell, and Linda M. and Daniel J. Campbell, of Beaver, three sons and two daughters-in-law: Ronald J. and Deb Gnan,of Emlenton, Pennsylvania, Gary J. Gnan of Hopewell, and Timothy W. and Marian Gnan of West Aliquippa, her grandchildren: Renee (Joe) Paxton, Brian Sutton, Jennifer Buchanan, Rhonda (Rick) Douds, Michelle (Chris) Galzarano, Tiffany (Mike) Milne, Tonya Doran, Michael Doran, Danielle Baron, Danny (Stacy) Baron, Matthew (Sarah) Campbell, Katie Dougherty, Josh Campbell; as well as her great-grandchildren: Allyson, Lala, R.J., Michael(Ashley), Rick, Hayden, Emma, Geno, Maria, Tommy, Trevor, Sierra, Christopher, Greyson, Julia, Ari, Hollis, and Ella, and Matti; along with several great great grandchildren, one brother and a sister, Nick Lego and Susan Miller.

Anna was a retired employee with Anchor Hocking – Phoenix Glass, Maintenance Department. She was also a member of the St. Titus Roman Catholic Church in Aliquippa and Mary Queen of Saints Parish. She was also an avid bingo player. She especially loved doing word searches.

Friends will be received on Monday, May 11th, from 3-7 p.m. in The William Murphy Funeral Home, Inc., 349 Adams Street, Rochester, who was in charge of her arrangements, and where a service will take place at 7:30 p.m. conducted by Father Howard Campbell. Private Burial will take place at Woodlawn Cemetery.

The family wishes to thank Suncrest Hospice Nurses, Hope, Nani, Shar and Danasia for the care given to Anna.

Carol Smith (Passed on April 28th, 2026)

Carol Lee Smith, 72, passed away on April 28th, 2026 at Heritage Valley Beaver Hospital in Brighton Township surrounded by her family after an extended illness. She was the loving daughter of the late Georgine Cook Watts. In addition to her mother, Carol was preceded in death by her husband, Jay Smith, as well as her mother-in-law and father-in-law Ruth and Berch Smith. She is survived by her brothers and sisters–in-laws, David and Belinda Watts and Michael and Mary Ellen Watts, her sister-in-law, Melody Smith, her nieces: Lindsey (Dan), Alexandra, Maura, and Laila; as well as many loving cousins, and a host of great friends.

Carol was a 1971 graduate of New Brighton High School and received her degree in physical educationfrom Penn State University in 1975. Carol was an annual staff member at YMCA Camp (Y-Camp “Kon-O-Kwee”) and greatly looked forward to the event each year. She was gifted musically, playing her clarinet & bass clarinet in numerous area concerts. She was a remarkable athlete, participating in tennis, softball, and swimming (serving as a lifeguard). Family trips together to Peace Valley orchards will always be priceless along with so many other wonderful memorable events spent together. She met the love of her life, Jay Smith, at a dance and that led to a beautiful marriage and the start of tranquil life on a farm in Ohio. They spent many happy years together along with Justin, her stepson. Some of her favorite activities would include hosting raucous Steeler vs Browns parties, having family fun-filled nerf battles, visiting fairs, and watching Jay race motorcycles. She spent her career at Duquesne Light Company/First Energy working in various departments until her retirement. During her years of working, she was fortunate to make lifelong friends, and greatly looked forward to catching up on scheduled lunch dates. She will always be remembered for her infectious smile, her quirky sense of humor, her love of a good time, and for her compassion for others. Her family wishes to extend a heartfelt thanks to the countless caregivers, physicians, nurses, staff, and therapists who have lovingly cared for Carol with their humor, encouragement, compassion, and dedication.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Simpson Funeral and Cremation Services, 1119 Washington Avenue, Monaca.

A Celebration of Life will be held in late June to honor Carol and to share the impact she made.

Carol’s final gift was a gift of life made to CORE, Center for Organ Recovery & Education, in hopes of giving life to others.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Carol, please visit the floral store of Simpson Funeral and Cremation Services by clicking here.

Elsie Joanne Colwell (1938-2026)

Elsie Joanne Colwell, 88, of New Brighton, passed away on May 6th, 2026, at Heritage Valley Beaver. She was born in Ellwood City on April 9th, 1938, the daughter of the late Emma (Hall) and Roy Colwell. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her two brothers, Robert and Darrell. She is survived by her brother, James (Janice) Collwell and her great niece, Kayla, whom Elsie looked upon as a child of her own and several other adored nieces and nephews.

Elsie lived a life marked by loyalty, kindness, and a deep love for others. She devoted 38 years of her career as an electrician with the IUOE within Westinghouse, where her strong work ethic earned the respect of colleagues and friends alike. She was a faithful member of the Marion Hill Christian Missionary Alliance Church of New Brighton who found strength and community in her faith. She had an unending passion for travel and embraced every opportunity to explore the world. She was known for her warm and inviting heart with a natural ability to make even strangers feel welcomed as family. Her love extended especially to her own family and to animals, both of which brought her immense joy throughout her life. She will be remembered for her generous love, her unwavering kindness, and the lasting impression she left on everyone fortunate enough to know her. An End of Life Celebration will be held on Saturday, May 16th at 11 a.m. within the Marion Hill Christian Missionary Alliance Church, 4607 Rochester Road, 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 Elsie Joanne Colwell, please visit the flower store of the J&J Spratt Funeral Home, Inc. by clicking here.