Category: Obituaries

Barbara Jeanne Shaffalo (1961-2026)

Barbara Jeanne Shaffalo, 86, formerly of Aliquippa and Bluffton, South Carolina, passed away on May 8th, 2026, at Good Samaritan Hospice House in Wexford. She was born and raised in Aliquippa and lived a life marked by devotion to her family and kindness to others. She was the daughter of the late William and Mary (Mazzocca) Helterbran. In addition to her parents, she was also preceded in death by her beloved husband, Raymond J. Shaffalo, Jr., whom she married on September 23rd, 1961, at St. Titus Catholic Church in Aliquippa. She was also preceded in death by her siblings, Wilma Evans, Dorothy Merriman and William Helterman. These family ties remained an important part of her life.

She is survived by her daughters, Susan L. Brock and Deborah A. Neill, who were a source of great pride and joy to her. She is also survived by her cherished grandchildren: Mitchell Brock, Ashley (Neill) Weisend & Brandon Weisend, Eric & Kylee Neill; as well as two great grandchildren, Lany Weisend & Maveric Neill, her brother-in-law, Ronald Shaffalo and her sisters-in-law, Georgia Shaffalo and Linda Francani.

Barbara was a 1958 graduate of Aliquippa High School who began her working life as a data entry operator for J. & L. Steel Corporation, later known as LTV Steel, in Aliquippa. She later served in the Human Resources Department of the Beaver County Courthouse. She was a former member of All Saints Episcopal Church and the Altar Guild in Aliquippa where her faith and service were reflected in her participation and commitment. She had many talents and interests and she used them generously. She sewed her own clothes, enjoyed knitting, and even did wallpapering with skill and care. She also had a remarkable file system that helped her remember to send cards for every important event in people’s lives. Her kindness extended well beyond her home and family. She visited elderly residents in nursing homes and held a deep respect for the elderly throughout her life. She attended her grandchildren’s events with enthusiasm and pride, and she was always present when it mattered most. She was also a devoted Pittsburgh Steelers fan, enjoying the excitement and tradition of the team she followed faithfully. Above all, she was known for putting others before herself. Selfless is the word that best describes her, and it is a fitting tribute to a woman whose life was defined by generosity, compassion, and love.

Barbara’s memorial service will be held at Prince of Peace Anglican Church, 1314 Gringo Road, Aliquippa on Saturday, June 13th at 11:00 a.m. for friends and family. Private inurnment will take place at the National Cemetery of the Alleghenies, 1158 Morgan Road, Bridgeville.

The family has requested those wishing to make a memorial contribution in Barbara’s memory to please consider the Prince of Peace Anglican Church, 1314 Gringo Road, Aliquippa 15001 or the Beaver County Humane Society, 3394 Brodhead Road, Aliquippa, PA 15001.

Cynthia L. Wallace (1958-2026)

Cynthia L. Wallace, 67, of Beaver Falls, formally of New Brighton, passed away on May 11th, 2026. She was born on June 2nd, 1958. She is survived by her daughter, Jackie Willis, her son, Brian Willis, her sister, Bonnie Wallace, 7 nephews and 1 niece.

Cynthia was Protestant by faith and was a retired care-giver with Blair’s Nursing Home.

A memorial service for Cynthia will take place at a later date. Arrangements have been entrusted to the William Murphy Funeral Home, Inc., 349 Adams Street, Rochester.

She will be interred in the Wallace Cemetery in New Brighton.

James M. “Jim” Clonan, Jr. (1948-2026)

James M. “Jim” Clonan Jr., 78, of Brighton Township, passed away peacefully on May 7th, 2026.

He was born in Pittsburgh on March 23rd, 1948, the beloved son of the late James M. Clonan Sr. and Virginia (Skiba) Clonan.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Jill (Sisley) Clonan, whom he cherished deeply throughout their years together. He is survived by his children, Brian Clonan, Courtney (Matt) Dalessandro and Brooke (James) Meininger, his grandchildren: Adelle and Agnes Clonan, Devon (Amber) Cuda and Edie, Eliot and Kai Dalessandro; as well as Presley, Margot, Penny, and James Meininger; along with his beloved dog, “Chiweenie,” his breakfast club buddies, and his extended family and friends.

James was a proud veteran who served during the Vietnam War. He honorably served his country with courage and pride. Following his military service, he dedicated his life to caring for others as a registered nurse, a profession he carried out with kindness and compassion. He was also deeply proud of his Lawrenceville roots, his time as a Morningside Bulldog, an outstanding athlete in his younger days, and as an alumnus of Central Catholic High School in Pittsburgh. He loved chatting and reminiscing, mostly about his kids’ antics, over a good cup of coffee. He was a captivating storyteller, an avid fisherman, and had a wonderful sense of humor. He carried life’s struggles heavily but remained steadfast and unwavering in his strong faith.

In accordance with James’ wishes, there will be no formal services. A celebration of his life will be held at a later date.

Inurnment will be private at the National Cemetery of the Alleghenies, 1158 Morgan Road, Bridgeville.

The GABAUER-LUTTON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, Inc., 117 Blackhawk Road, Beaver Falls, was honored to care for James and his family during this difficult time.

Daniel Thomas “Dan” Varga (1947-2026)

Daniel Thomas “Dan” Varga, 79, of White Township, passed away on April 30th, 2026, at Heritage Valley Beaver. He was born on March 15th, 1947, a son of the late Joseph and Martha Varga. He is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Pamela Varga, his siblings, Lawerence (Susan) Varga, Charles (Jill) Varga and Betsy (Bruce) Svensson, a nephew, Doug Varga, several nieces and nephews and numerous friends.

Daniel graduated from New Brighton High School and attended Parsons College. He joined the navy and served on the John F. Kennedy aircraft carrier. He returned back to Patterson Heights and Beaver Falls and worked at Babcock & Wilcox and later at VEKA in Fombell. He enjoyed fishing, canoeing and walking through the woods with his wife and dog. Upon retiring, he and Pamela treated themselves to a cruise to Alaska. They enjoyed it so much that they returned twice. He loved to barbecue on his Big Green Egg unit. Rain or snow, you could find him on the back porch grilling burgers, corn on the cob and lots of other meats and veggies. He was especially proud of the prime rib he grilled for holidays. It was always perfectly cooked and absolutely delicious. He loved listening to jazz and blues, and there was always music playing in the house. His white Nisson Z convertible sports car was his pride and joy, although he never drove it farther than the driveway. The car was in perfect condition because, “it was never touched by rain or snow.” He had a sparkle in his eyes and a grin on his face. He had a wicked sense of humor and loved to make people laugh.

Memorial contributions can be donated to the Beaver County Humane Society in Daniel’s name. donations can be made online at https://beavercountyhumanesociety.org/online-donation/ or by mail, Beaver County Humane Society, 3394 Brodhead Road Center Township, PA 15001

Friends will be received on Saturday, May 16, from 2 P.M. until the time of a service at 6 P.M. at the GABAUER-LUTTON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, Inc., 117 Blackhawk Road, Beaver Falls, who was in charge of his arrangements.

Brent D. Smith (1965-2026)

Brent D. Smith, 61, of Daugherty Township, passed away peacefully on May 8th, 2026, at Good Samaritan Hospice in Wexford.

He was born in Ellwood City on March 30th, 1965, a son of Sandra (Bishop) Smith and the late David J. Smith. In addition to his mother, he is survived by his loving wife of 39 years, Janet (Cardosi) Smith, three sons, Ryan and Tyler, both of New Brighton, and Vinnie, of Aiken, South Carolina, his brother, Bruce Smith, of Ellwood City, his brother-in-law, Rob (Kelley) Cardosi of New Brighton, his sisters-in-law, Donna (Jim) Goda of Charlotte, North Carolina and Nancy Sheets of New Brighton. He was also an uncle to many nieces and nephews who loved and adored him.

Brent spent many years as a shop supervisor and was highly regarded as “the boss.” A true handyman, there wasn’t anything he could not fix! He was an avid sport fan—especially Penguins hockey—and his favorite football cheer was: “We Are (NOT) Penn State– Hail to Pitt!” He was a father who coached his sons in Little League, a husband who loved and supported his family, and a son who was always there when needed. Fishing was his passion and he loved sharing the “the one that got away” stories. He had a quick wit and a dry sense of humor. Plain and simple; he was a good man—gone too soon.

He was also an active member of Holy Family Church in New Brighton and Our Lady of the Valley Parish.

In accordance with Brent’s wishes, there will be no public viewing. However, on Saturday, May 16th, 2026, a Mass of Christian Burial will occur at 11 a.m. at Holy Family Church, 521 7th Ave, New Brighton. Fr. Tom Kredel and Fr. Howard Campbell will concelebrate. Private interment will follow in St. Joseph Cemetery, 1501 1st Avenue, New Brighton. Arrangements have been entrusted to the J&J Spratt Funeral Home, Inc., 1612 Third Avenue, New Brighton.

Memorial contributions may be made in Brent’s name to: KIF1A.ORG in honor of his niece Paisley who is living with this rare disease. Make checks payable to KIF1A.ORG and mail to KIF1A.ORG 1178 Broadway, 3rd Floor #3535 New York, NY 10001 or go online and donate through the website.

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

Randy. J. Hinzman (1963-2026)

Randy J. Hinzman, 62, of Ambridge, passed away at home on May 11th, 2026. He was born in Sewickley on June 16th, 1963, the son of the late James and Sally Irene (Horton) Hinzman. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Charles W. and Madeline (Matanick) Lutz, a sister-in-law, Renee Lutz, and a nephew, Nicholas Soltis. He is survived by his loving wife, Rochelle (Lutz) Hinzman, 3 daughters, Rebecca (J.C. Reboton) Hinzman, Laura Hinzman and Ashton (David) Weatherly, his adored granddaughter, Margo Weatherly, a sister, Lisa (John) McCullough, 2 sisters-in-law, Roxanne (Jeff) Soltis and Rhonda (Gary) Lazzaretti, his nephews and nieces: Travis McCullough, Tristan (Kyleigh) McCullough, Jay McCullough, Mitchel Lazzaretti, Chanda (Max) Fallecker, Melinda (Andrew) Pisano, Breanna (Larry) Musgrave; as well as numerous great-nieces and great-nephews.

Randy was a carpenter by trade for nearly 30 years. He was also a proud member of the Masonic Hall Sewickley, Lodge 630. In his spare time, he absolutely loved the outdoors. He was an avid fisherman and hunter and enjoyed going camping and riding around on his ATV. In the kitchen, his specialties included homemade jelly from berries that he hand-picked, jerky and his wonderful Christmas cookies, which earned him the title, “The Christmas Cookie Baker.” When it came to movies, he was fond of good-old Western classics, and music, Big Band and Blue Grass.

Family and friends are welcome to gather for a visitation on Friday, May 15th, from 4-8 P.M., in the John Syka Funeral Home, Inc., 833 Kennedy Drive, Ambridge, who was in charge of his arrangements, and where a blessing service will take place on Saturday, May 16th, commencing at 11 A.M. Interment will follow in Good Samaritan Catholic Cemetery (Ambridge).

Rebecca “Becky” Cirka (1951-2026)

Rebecca “Becky” Cirka, 74, of Conway, passed away peacefully on May 6th, 2026. She was born on December 24th, 1951, a daughter of the late John and Margaret (Musserbok) Cirka. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her siblings: John, Robert, Richard, David, Madeline Kosela, and Renee Charitonuk.

She is survived by her loving brother, George Cirka, her son, Kevin, several grandchildren, many cherished nieces, nephews, and extended family members, her dear friend, Bill, and the many friends she made at Conway Towers.

Rebecca lived a life centered around family, friendship, and the simple joys she loved most. She was a faithful member of St. Mary’s Byzantine Catholic Church in Ambridge, where she enjoyed volunteering and helping make pierogi for church events. She dedicated more than a decade of service to working at the Economy Walmart, where she was known for her friendly personality and hardworking spirit.

She found happiness in life’s simple pleasures — shooting pool with friends at her pool club, listening to music from the 1960s, putting together jigsaw puzzles, and playing poker games on her phone. She will be remembered for her warmth, sense of humor, and the friendships she built throughout her life.

Family and friends will be received from 9-10 A.M. on Friday, May 22nd at Alvarez-Hahn Funeral Services and Cremation, LLC, 547 8th Street, Ambridge, who was in charge of her arrangements. A Funeral Mass will follow at 10:30 A.M. at Saint Mary’s Byzantine Church, 624 Park Road, Ambridge. Interment will take place afterward at Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Cemetery,

Maria Joanne Mattson (1971-2026)

Maria Joanne Mattson, 55, of New Brighton, formerly of Erie, passed away on May 6th, 2026. She was born on April 11th, 1971, a beloved daughter of the late William and Betty Mattson, Sr.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister, Peggy Mattson.

She is survived by her husband of 26 years, Walter Harris, Jr., her daughter and best friend, Toya Harris and her brother, William Mattson, Jr.

Maria enjoyed relaxing at home watching movies, shopping, and spending cherished time with her husband and daughter. She was known for her outgoing and social personality. She also had a love for soul and R&B music.

Family and friends will be received on Thursday, May 14th, 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 a Blessing Service will be held at 4 P.M.

Todd Allan Long (1971-2026)

Todd Allan Long, 54, passed away unexpectedly at his home on May 8th, 2026. He was born on May 19th, 1971, a son of Rosemarie (Stose) Sorrels and the late Paul Long, Jr. (Ruth). In addition to his mother, he was preceded in death by his stepfather, Myron Sorrels and a brother, Paul Stewart Long III. In addition to his father, he is survived by another brother, Keith “Doug” Long (Sharon), his stepbrother, Dominic “Nick” Johanningmeier, his stepsister, Deborah Devincent (Dean), his niece, Brittany Newcomb (John) and his great-niece, Aubree Newcomb. Todd’s absence will be deeply felt by his family and the many friends whose lives he touched.

Todd spent his formative years in Monaca with a brief period attending school in Beaver, before graduating from Monaca High School in 1989. After high school, he chose to honor a family tradition by joining the military, enlisting in the US Navy. Stationed in Guam, he worked as a meteorologist and took great pride in his service as a US Navy Veteran. He dedicated his professional life to caring for others, working as a Licensed Practical Nurse. He focused his compassionate energy on seniors in long-term care, particularly through his role at Asbury Heights in Pittsburgh. His devotion to his patients was evident in the dignity and professionalism with which he treated each individual.

Outside his career, he was an avid sports enthusiast in his youth, playing catcher on the baseball field. His love of music led him to play both the bass guitar and trombone. Ever resourceful and “handy,” he also pursued work in construction and enjoyed undertaking remodeling and home improvement projects. A true science fiction fan, Todd had a particular fondness for Star Wars—he enthusiastically collected memorabilia and spent countless hours building Star Wars models. His affection for animals, especially cats, was well-known; he found joy in caring for his many beloved feline companions over the years.

In accordance with Todd’s wishes, he will be cremated, and his ashes will be interred alongside his mother at Beaver Cemetery, Buffalo Street, Beaver. The family kindly requests that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made in his memory to The Beaver County Humane Society, 3394 Brodhead Rd, Aliquippa, PA 15001, or to a local veterans’ charity. A celebration of his life will be held at a future date. Arrangements have been entrusted to Simpson Funeral and Cremation Services, 1119 Washington Avenue, Monaca.

Joseph R. Bauman, III (1941-2026)

Joseph R. Bauman, III, 84, of Patterson Township, passed away peacefully on 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.