Category: Obituaries

Alma Arlene “Peg” Canonaco (1933-2026)

Alma Arlene “Peg” Canonaco, 92, of South Beaver Township, passed away on May 24th, 2026, at Heritage Valley Health System – Beaver Campus.

She was born in Beaver Falls on October 20th, 1933, a daughter of the late Steve and Josephine West. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her children, Ken, Keith, and Bruce Humphrey and a sister, Merle. She is survived by her loving husband of 60 years, Ralph Canonaco, her grandchildren: Chris, Aaron, Matt, Lauren, Nicole, and Keith; as well as eight great-grandchildren, her sisters, Dorothy, June, and Elsie, along with numerous extended family members, and friends.

Alma spent her life as a homemaker and was extremely fond of her grandchildren.  She enjoyed traveling with her husband and reading.

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

The GABAUER-LUTTON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, INC., 117 Blackhawk Road, Beaver Falls, was honored to provide care and guidance to Alma’s family during this time and was the funeral home that was in charge of her arrangements.

Joan Marie Lapic (1952-2026)

Joan Marie Lapic, 74, of New Brighton, passed away peacefully on May 23rd, 2026, at Cedar Hill Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center in Moon. She was born in New Castle on May 10th, 1952, a daughter of Agnes (O’Connor) and Carl Oswald. In addition to her parents, she is survived by her four children: Jeremiah (Ermida) Lapic, Jacob Lapic, Justin Lapic, and Jessica (Chris) Brown; as well as two brothers, Martin and Tom Oswald, her sister, Carleen Rainey and four beloved grandchildren, Connor, Aiden, Elise, and Sofia.

Joan graduated from New Castle High School with its Class of 1970 and earned a Bachelor’s degree from Aquinas College in Grand Rapids, Michigan, with a double major in English and Environmental Studies. She began her career as a writer at several newspapers in Michigan before returning to Pennsylvania, where she continued working in journalism while spending every free moment on the river. She devoted her life to nurturing growth — in gardens, in people, and in the hearts of those around her. During her formative years, she explored the wilds of the upper Allegheny River around her father’s river cabin in Emlenton, which instilled in her a deep appreciation for nature. She later renewed her faith and embraced a strong belief in natural living, giving birth to all four of her children at home. She envisioned and helped build a passive solar home in the country, where she homeschooled her four children while mastering raised-bed gardening, beekeeping, raising small animals, growing orchids, and maintaining a greenhouse. She was also a Penn State Master Gardener and herb specialist, Joan volunteered at the local Grange and youth home before becoming the Therapeutic Horticulture Program Coordinator at Glade Run Lutheran Services. There, her lifetime of passions truly bloomed as she combined compassion, knowledge, and reverence for the natural world in her work as a therapist. She was a gifted herbalist and educator who found immense joy in plants, flowers, and the outdoors, and loved teaching others about their healing properties through presentations and hands-on learning. Through her work and gentle spirit, she inspired many to discover the beauty, comfort, and connection found in nature.

A memorial gathering will be held for friends and family on Friday, May 29th from 4 p.m. until the time of a Memorial Service at 6 p.m. at the J&J Spratt Funeral Home, Inc., 1612 Third Avenue, New Brighton, who was in charge of her arrangements.

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

Timothy E. Ralston (1974-2026)

Timothy E. Ralston, 51, of Glenwillard, passed away on May 19th, 2026 at his residence. He was born in Burgettstown on September 11th, 1974, a son of Jane Smith Ralston and the late Elwood T. Ralston. In addition to his mother, he is survived by his wife, Laura Gable, two daughters, Lydia Gable and Meadow Ralston, his brother, Thomas R. Ralston and his in-laws, Richard Eberle and Kerrin Powers.

Timothy crafted a name as a remarkable chef, especially when it came to his chicken wings. However, he was more than just an expert in the kitchen. He loved the simple pleasures of life: fishing, spending time with his children, being with his family, and cheering on his favorite teams, the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Pittsburgh Pirates. His love for wrestling was matched only by his passion for music. Friends will be received on Wednesday, May 27th from 2 P.M. until the time of service at 5:30 P.M. at the CORLESS-MATTER FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, LLC, 1133 Church Street, Ambridge, who was in charge of his arrangements.

Hierodeacon Joseph Wirag (1956-2026)

Hierodeacon Joseph Wirag, 69, of Ambridge, passed away unexpectedly on May 21st, 2026.

He was born on August 26th, 1956. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Geri Szabo. He is survived by his best friend of 40 years, Father Frank Mitolo, his nephews, Jeff (Kim) Szabo, and Gary Szabo, all of Pittsburgh, and many friends.

Hierodeacon Joseph was a member of St. Peter and Paul Ukrainian Catholic Church in Ambridge. He joined the community of Brothers of the Holy Spirit when he joined the Ukrainian Catholic Rite and was designated a Heirodeacon in 2014.

Friends will be received on Tuesday, May 26th from 3-6 p.m. in the Schwerha-Noll Funeral Home, 629 Midland Avenue, Midland, who was in charge of his arrangements. Hierodeacon Joseph will lay in state on Wednesday, May 27th from 11 a.m. until the time of a service at 1 p.m. at the St. Peter and Paul Ukrainian Catholic Church, 404 6th Street, Ambridge.

Interment to follow in Beaver Cemetery, Buffalo Street, Beaver.

Shirley A. Spaniel (1943-2026)

Shirley A. Spaniel, 82, of Ellwood City, passed away peacefully on May 22nd, 2026, at Allegheny General Hospital, Pittsburgh.

She was born in Ellwood City on December 26th, 1943, the daughter of the late Louis and Norma (French) Shinsky. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a son-in-law, Darryl Eimer and a brother, Donald Shinsky. She is survived by her daughters, Lori Eimer and Lisa (Christian) Scherer, her grandchildren: Dr. Robert Scherer, Nicole Scherer, Michael Scherer, and Sydney Scherer; as well as her brother, Ray (Margie) Shinsky, and her nieces, nephews, and friends.

Shirley was a graduate of the Community College of Beaver County and went on to work as a Registered Nurse. She was extremely proud of her work as a registered nurse and retired with over 30 years of service from Ellwood City Hospital. She was part of the Nurses Study at the University of Michigan and took great pride in knowing her contributions to the study may help others. In her free time, she enjoyed trips to the casino, playing bingo, and lounging with her dogs.

Shirley’s wishes for cremation will be honored and no services are being planned, in accordance with her wishes.

The family wishes to extend a heart-felt “Thank You” to the LVAD Team at AGH, especially Dr. Hadi, Dr. Raina, Patty, and Erin for their care and support over the years.

Memorial contributions, if desired, may be directed to the Beaver County Humane Society, 3394 Brodhead Road, Aliquippa, PA 15001.

The GABAUER-LUTTON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, INC., 117 Blackhawk Road, Beaver Falls, was honored to care for Shirley’s family during this time and was the funeral home that was in charge of her arrangements.

Carole Rita Semonik (1942-2026)

Carole Rita Semonik, 84, of Harmony Township, passed away on May 23rd, 2026, at Sewickley Valley Hospital, following a courageous three-month battle with MDS, with her loving family by her bedside. She was born in Ambridge on May 21st, 1942, the second daughter of the late William Stanley and Elizabeth “Betty” (Knorr) Antkiewicz. She married John “Puka” Semonik in 1972, and together they shared 31 years of marriage and raised two children, Paul Andrew Semonik (Johanna Semonik) and James Edward Semonik (Emily Kirkpatrick). In addition to her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by her oldest brother, Leroy J. “Lee” Antkiewicz. In addition to her children, she is also survived by her two grandsons, Zachary Thomas and John Nicholas Semonik, a sister, Ruth Ann Nardo (Daniel), her brothers, William Antkiewicz (Kathy) and Ronald Antkiewicz (Mary Ellen), a sister-in-law, Patricia Yeager (John), a brother-in-law, Gerald E. Semonik (Ellen), along with many nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

Carole was a loving wife and mother who enjoyed the simplicity of life. She cherished raising her family, making the world’s most amazing pierogies, doing puzzles with family, fishing at Pymatuning with her brother, William, and caring for her log house — which was her dream come true. She attended St. Veronica’s Catholic High School and was a lifelong member of Good Samaritan Catholic Church in Ambridge. Before the arrival of her sons, she worked as an assistant manager at the Isaly’s Dairy Store in Ambridge.

Friends will be received on Wednesday, May 27th, from 3 P.M. until the time of a blessing service at 6:30 P.M. at the John Syka Funeral Home, Inc., 833 Kennedy Drive, Ambridge, who was in charge of her arrangements. Internment will take place privately in Economy Cemetery, 1691 Ridge Rd Extension #1601, Ambridge.

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

David Michael Kerns (1955-2026)

David Michael Kerns, 72, of Monaca, formerly of Beaver, passed away unexpectedly in his home on May 18th, 2026.

He was born in Sewickley on November 24th, 1955, the son of Annneé Volitich Kerns and the late Ted Kerns. In addition to his mother, he is survived by his beloved wife of 48 years, Pam Kerns, née Nolder, his daughter, Marie (Robert) Knox, his son, Michael (Chad) Kerns, his two grandsons, Logan and Caleb Knox, and his sister Patricia Elder. In addition to his father, he was preceded in death by his father-in-law, Dutch Nolder and his mother-in-law, Teddi Nolder.

David graduated from Hopewell High School in 1974 and The New Castle School of Trade. He worked as a bricklayer at St. Joe Lead for several decades before his retirement. His unparalleled work ethic and humor made him countless friends around the mill. He was a proud and respected member of Steelworkers Local 8183 where he served as Recording Secretary. He was an avid fan of the Pittsburgh Pirates, Steelers, Penguins and Pitt Athletics. He was a natural and gifted baseball player himself who dedicated his time to coaching numerous youth baseball and football teams where he impacted the lives of many across the county.

He is also survived by his dear family, many friends, including his best friend, Sam Landis, and by his very spoiled dog, Ollie.

Friends will be received on Saturday, May 23rd from 1-4 p.m. at SIMPSON FUNERAL & CREMATON SERVICES, 1119 Washington Avenue, Monaca, who was in charge of his arrangements.

Memorial Contributions may be made in his name to The Beaver County Human Society, 3394 Brodhead Rd, Aliquippa, PA 15001.

Robyn L. “Rob” Senior (1967-2026)

Robyn L. Senior, 59, of Aliquippa, affectionately known as “Rob,” passed away on May 14th, 2026, due to a brain aneurysm. She was born on April 14th, 1967.

Robyn graced those she knew every day with her beautiful smile, kind heart, and willingness to help anyone without question. She brought warmth, love, and laughter to those around her and touched the lives of many through her caring spirit and generosity.

Her unexpected passing has left a heartbreaking loss for her family, friends, and all who knew and loved her.

Family and friends will be received for a viewing on Saturday, June 6th, from 2 p.m. until the time of a formal funeral service beginning at 5 p.m. at Alvarez-Hahn Funeral Services and Cremation, LLC, 547 8th Street, Ambridge, who was in charge of her arrangements.

Robyn’s memory will forever live on in the hearts of those whose lives she touched.

Alfred H. Pasco, Jr. (1948-2026)

Alfred H. Pasco, Jr., 77, of Daugherty Township, passed away on May 19th, 2026, with his wife by his side.

He was born in East Liverpool, Ohio on June 18th, 1948, a son of the late Alfred H. and Ada Mary Pasco. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Donald Pasco. He is survived by his beloved wife of 20 years, Betty Ruckert Pasco, his sons, Kevan Pasco and Steve Pasco, his stepson, Ronald (Kristi) Puffinburger, his grandson: Clayton (Lindsey) Puffinburger, Johnathan, RJ and Dougie; as well as his great-grandchildren: Ivan, Carson, Dylan and Addy.

Alfred retired in 2012 as a Senior Stock Tender, more specifcally, a “numbers man” working at Bruce Mansfield. He was an avid golfer and belonged to numerous leagues. He was also an active faithful member of Church of the Living Christ in Bridgewater.

Friends will be received on Friday, May 22nd from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. at Noll Funeral Home Inc., 333 Third Street, Beaver, who was in charge of his arrangements, and where a funeral service will be conducted on Saturday, May 23rd, at 11 a.m. by Alfred’s friend and pastor, David Howells.

Online condolences may be shared at www.nollfuneral.com.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Alfred’s name to Church of the Living Christ for Child Evangelism Fellowship (CEF) at 699 Riverside Drive, Beaver, PA 15009.

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

James R. Kairis (1934-2026)

James R. Kairis, 91, of New Brighton, passed away peacefully on May 19th, 2026, at Providence Health and Rehab Center in Beaver Falls.

He was born in New Brighton on November 19th, 1934, a son of the late John Edward and Genevieve (Brzezenski) Kairis. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Beverly Joyce “Bunny” (Petuch) Kairis, whom he married on February 16th, 1957, his daughter, Laura Lee Kairis, his sons, John and Timothy Kairis, his daughter-in-law, Robyn Trumbetic Kairis and his sister, Patricia Kairis Kondraki.

He is survived by his sons, Brandan Kairis and Daniel (Brenda) Kairis, his grandchildren: Rebecca (Ryan) McDaniel, Patrick Kairis and Sheri Hendricks, Noah (Lexi) Kairis, Taylor Kairis, Renee (Michael) Faletto; as well as three great-grandchildren, his sister, Joann Kairis and his brother, Rich Kairis.

James was a veteran of the United States Army. He served during the Korean War. He retired from Hydril after 30 years of dedicated service working as a machinist. Throughout his life, he remained deeply devoted to his faith and his church community. He was a lifelong member of Our Lady of the Valley Parish and St. Cecilia Church in Rochester, where he was a life member of the church choir and the Resurrection Choir as he shared his love of music and worship with generations of parishioners. He loved fishing, collecting coins, woodworking, and firearms. Whether crafting something by hand, casting a line into the water, or sharing stories with family and friends, he valued the moments spent with those he cared about most. Above all, he will be remembered for his kindness, loyalty, faith, and the love he gave so freely to others. He will be deeply missed by all those he loved and by all those who loved him.

In accordance with James’ request, 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 in memory of James R. Kairis, please visit the tree store of the J&J Spratt Funeral Home, Inc. by clicking here.