John F. Sofranko, Jr. (1949-2026)

John F. Sofranko, Jr., 76, of Moon Township, passed away on June 22nd, 2026 in Heritage Valley Sewickley. He was born in Sewickley on July 18th, 1949, the son of the late John F. and Catherine (Strella) Sofranko. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two sisters, Catherine Hicks & Madalen Belcastro. He is survived by his loving wife of 49 years, Christine (Porta) Sofranko, the lights of his life, his son, John “Jay” Sofranko III and grandson, John “Jay 4” Sofranko IV, his dear sister & partner in mischief, Christine M. Sofranko, and his sister, Bridgette Kamzelski as well as many nieces & nephews.

John enlisted in the Navy and was stationed at Guantanamo Bay where he became a medic, taught water survival & was an expert marksman. Upon his discharge, he worked 18 years as a motor inspector until LTV Steel closed. He then spent the next 20 years until his retirement as an electrician for UPMC Health System.

Second only to his love for his family, he loved fishing & boating. The first day of trout season was a major event where he, his wife & son had to be on the road before 5 a.m. to get to his favorite stream. Many lazy days were spent on rivers and lakes in Pennsylvania, Ohio and on the waters of Siesta Key. In addition to he being a huge history buff, he took pleasure in going to auctions & flea markets collecting and repairing antique lamps and oil lanterns. He was never alone chauffeuring family and friends on his treasure hunting excursions. He was an old soul, had a laid-back style and a great sense of humor. Ten years ago, he was diagnosed with cancer triggering a rare disorder (Paraneoplastic Syndrome) progressing to late-stage Parkinson’s symptoms. Despite the devastating diagnosis and over a dozen hospitalizations, he chose to live sweetly in all the hard circumstances. “I’m good” was his typical answer when asked how he felt. With God’s divine grace, he accepted each setback with courage & without complaint or anger. He was thankful to the many family members, friends, neighbors, former co-workers and caregivers that lovingly surrounded him. They brought conversations, laughter, comfort and help wherever it was needed.

Friends will be received on Sunday, June 28th from 2-7 p.m. in the Huntsman Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Moon Township, 1522 Coraopolis Heights Road, Coraopolis, who was in charge of his arrangements and where a Blessing Service will be held on Monday, June 29th at 10 A.M. Committal and Military Honors will follow at Resurrection Catholic Cemetery, 100 Resurrection Road, Coraopolis.

Memorial contributions can be made to: Tunnel to Towers Foundation at www.t2t.org by clicking here or the Light of Life Rescue Mission at www.lightoflife.org by clicking here

Ruth “Arlene” Williams (1945-2026)

Ruth “Arlene” Williams, 80, of Beaver, passed away at Allegheny General Hospital on June 22nd, 2026, due to a recent illness.

She was born on Rochester on November 7th, 1945, the daughter of the late Janet D. Bryson. In addition to her mother, she was preceded in death by her husband, Robin E. Williams and her mother and father-in-law, Eugene and Dorothy Williams. She is survived by her son, Robert (Robin) Williams of Center Township, her daughter, Christine Petrella of Beaver, her grandchildren: Brittany (Cody Gibson) Miller of Raccoon, Caitlyn Petrella of Raccoon, Brandon Petrella, Racoon, and Alexa Williams of Center Township and great-grandchildren, Colton Miller, Caroline Petrella and Bentley Gibson and her brother, Chuck (Judy) Bryson of Pittsburgh.

Arlene was a devoted member of First Presbyterian Church in Beaver, where faithfully served as the church secretary for 25 years. Her dedication to her faith and church community reflected the compassion, kindness, and generosity that defined her life. She was a loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, who touched the lives of everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. She will be remembered for her warm heart, unwavering devotion to her family, and the countless memories she created with those she loved. Her strength, wisdom and gentle spirit provided comfort, guidance, and inspiration to many throughout her life. Among her greatest joys were her beloved dogs, Abbey and Darla, who brought her endless companionship, comfort, and happiness. She cherished the special bond she shared with them and the joy they brought to her daily life. While she will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her, her legacy of love, faith and kindness will live on in the hearts of her family, friends, and community for generations to come.

Friends will be received on Friday, June 26th, from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. in the Noll Funeral Home, 333 Third Street, Beaver, who was in charge of her arrangements. A funeral service will take place on Saturday, June 27th, at 11 a.m. at First Presbyterian Church, Beaver. Interment will be at Sylvania Hills Memorial Park, 273 PA-68, Rochester. Online condolences may be shared at nollfuneral.com.

Memorial contributions may be made in Arlene’s name to First Presbyterian Church, 252 College Avenue, Beaver, PA 15009.

Raymond “Ray” Nalevenko (1948-2026)

Raymond “Ray” Nalevanko, 77, of Petersburg, Ohio, passed away on June 21st, 2026.

He was born in Wilkinsburg on October 21, 1948, a son of the late Michael Anthony and Gloria (Heckle) Nalevanko. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his grandson, Vincenzo Golletti, and sister-in-law Louanne McClintick. He is survived by his beloved wife of 48 years, Debbie (McClintick) Nalevanko, his children, Angelette (David) Johnston, Karra (Bobby) Burgess and Michael (Erica) Nalevanko, his grandchildren: Garrett Graeser, Braeden Graeser, Gabriana Nalevanko, Vanessa Nalevanko, Kallie Graeser, and Brynn Nalevanko, his siblings, Richard “Rich” (Joy) Nalevanko and Michelle McClintick, his cherished brothers and sisters-in-law, Robin (Bil) Schneider, Tom (Janet) McClintick and Jerry McClintick, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

Raymond was a proud U.S. Navy veteran serving as a Chief Petty Officer for 21 years. He later began work at the U.S. Postal Service to which he retired after 20 years of service. Ray was a lifetime member of the American Legion Post #580 as well as the VFW Post #4653, both in Monaca. He was a past member of the Elks Club in Cranberry. He was affectionately known as “Tractor Man,” was a licensed mechanic whose passion for fixing things was evident throughout his life. He loved working on tractors, golf carts, automobiles, and just about anything that needed repair. He was known for his generous spirit and willingness to lend a hand. He never hesitated to help anyone in need. Above all, he deeply loved and adored his grandchildren, who brought him immense pride and joy.

Friends will be received on Saturday, June 27th from 1 P.M. until the time of military honors at 4PM in the GABAUER-LUTTON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, Inc., 117 Blackhawk Road Beaver Falls, who was in charge of his arrangements.

In lieu of the flowers, donation can be made in Ray’s name to The Beaver County Special Unit (Affiliated with the American Legion #580) 600 Pennsylvania Ave, Monaca, PA 15061 or the Monaca VFW #4653, 301 6th St, Monaca, PA 15061.

Daniel P. Callahan (1959-2026)

Daniel P. Callahan, 67, of Beaver Falls, passed away unexpectedly on June 22nd, 2026, at his home.

He was born in Pittsburgh on January 17th, 1959, the son of the late Robert and Stella Mae (Hamilton) Callahan. He is survived by his loving wife of 45 years, Kim (Williams) Callahan, his sons, Michael (Veronica) Callahan, Christopher Callahan and Brian Callahan, his granddaughters, Daniella and Chloe; brothers by heart, Keith Drabick, John Zurik, and Bryan Landman, along with his first responder family and community.

Daniel devoted his life to protecting others and responded to his life’s calling with a true sense of valor, duty, and integrity.  He served in the U.S. Army for 4 years as a Firefighter and continued for a total of 50 years as a Firefighter and was a current member of the Darlington Township Fire Department, 48 years as Paramedic and 15 years as a Police Officer retiring from the White Township Police Department. He loved nothing more than sharing his knowledge of his profession with others as a fire instructor, emergency medical services instructor, and a firearm instructor for local police departments. He held a private pilot’s license and cherished every moment he was able to be in the air. He was Catholic by faith and a member of the Masonic Lodge.

Friends will be received on Thursday, June 25th from 2-4 P.M. & 6-8 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 a blessing service will be held on Friday, June 26th at 10 A.M. with Fr. John Naugle presiding.

A first responder procession will follow to the Darlington Township Fire Department, where military honors will be rendered by members of the Beaver County Special Unit.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Dan’s name to any local Veteran’s association or First Responder Organization.

Mildred J. “Millie” Cron (1937-2026)

Mildred J. “Millie” Cron, 89, of New Galilee, passed away peacefully on June 20th, 2026, at Providence Health and Rehabilitation Center in Beaver Falls.

She was born in Ambridge on March 26th, 1937, the daughter of the late Joseph and Catherine (Brozich) Yelic. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Samuel Cron, Jr. She is survived by her loving children: Debora (John) Battaglia, Richard (Laura) Cron, and Mary (Anthony) Cron-Borders; as well as her grandchildren: Christina (Jason) Thimons, John (Ashley) Battaglia, Nicholas (Kristen) Cron, Alicia Cron, Will (Sarah) Fike, Rick (Erica) Fike, and Amanda Sherry; along with her two step-granddaughters, Breyona (Michael) Kordish and Alleya (Jackson) Bartolomeo, as well as numerous great-grandchildren, extended family and friends.

Mildred was devout in her Catholic faith. She worked as an office manager for the former St. Philomena Catholic School. She was also the co-owner and designer of The Flower Mill florist in Koppel for more than ten years. She was also an organist for various churches in Beaver County, including Holy Trinity, Divine Mercy, St. Mary’s, and St. Theresa for over 42 years, retiring in 2012. She also had a band of musicians and singers that traveled throughout Beaver County to perform at events for nearly 12 years. She was a member of the Secular Franciscan Order, an original member of Perpetual Adoration since its formation in 1991 and a Eucharistic Minister since 1988. She was an exceptional artist and created many fine oil paintings.

Friends will be received on Monday, June 29th from 2-4 P.M. & 6-8 P.M. in the GABAUER-LUTTON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, INC., 117 Blackhawk Road, Beaver Falls, who was in charge of her arrangements, and where departing prayers will be offered on Tuesday, June 30th 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.

Interment will be private at Grandview Cemetery in Beaver Falld.

William “Bill” C. Hilberg (1959-2026)

William “Bill” C. Hilberg, 66, passed away on June 23rd, 2026 at UPMC Shadyside in Pittsburgh after a courageous six-year battle with lung cancer.

He was born in New Brighton on August 25th, 1959, a son of the late Robert M. and Jean Hilberg.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Bob Hilberg and his sister, Barbara Jean Mineard. He is survived by his twin sister, Bonny (John) Burlett of Economy, brother-in-law Richard “Pete” Mineard of Beaver Falls, nephews Christopher (Heather) Mineard of Beaver Falls, Bryan (Cari) Mineard of Twinsburg, Ohio, Andrew (Casey) Burlett of Cranberry Township and several great and great-great nieces and nephews.

William grew up in New Brighton and attended New Brighton School District. He just recently moved back to New Brighton after living many years in Beaver Falls. He worked for many years at Chester Engineering, where he was involved with the construction and maintenance of water systems. Above all, he was caring and selfless. He devoted many years to caring for his late brother, Bob, providing unwavering support and companionship. He also lovingly assisted his late sister, Barbara, throughout her illness, offering comfort, strength, and a helping hand whenever it was needed. In his younger years, he enjoyed spending time outdoors. He loved hunting, camping, working on and enjoying his cars, and spending time with his many friends. He also had a special place in his heart for animals and cherished the companionship of his many pets over the years. He will be remembered for his generous spirit, his willingness to help others, and the quiet strength he showed throughout his life.

In accordance with William’s wishes, there will be no funeral services.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the J&J Spratt Funeral Home, Inc., 1612 Third Avenue, New Brighton.

Donations can be made in his memory to the Beaver County Humane Society, 3394 Brodhead Road, Aliquippa PA 15001.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Tina and Pat Kruise, and Larry “Rat” and Laurie Radcliff for their caring friendship, support, and kindness shown to Bill throughout the years. Their compassion and companionship meant so much to him and to those who loved him.

Julie Ann Vietz (1968-2026)

Julie Ann Veitz, 57, of New Brighton, passed away on June 20th, 2026, after a sudden illness. She was born on December 28th, 1968, a daughter of the late Joan Chaney and Jesse Chaney. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister, Amy Menges and her grandson, Donovan. She is survived by her husband, Ross Veitz, her daughters, Lauren Martsolf and Lyndsey Veitz, her grandsons: Damian, Darian, Colton, and Garrett; as well as her sister, Jennifer (Chris) McCullough, her brother, John (Ellie) McAllister and many extended family members and friends who will miss her. She was married to her high school sweetheart, Ross Veitz, and together they built a life and family over many years. She was the mother of two daughters, Lauren (Shawn) Martsolf and Lyndsey Veitz, and grandmother to Damian, Darian, Colton, and Garrett. She was also the grandmother of Donovan, who preceded her in death as an infant.

Julie loved animals, especially her beloved chihuahuas, most of all her little love bug, Winston, and had a special fondness for Mickey Mouse. She found joy in music, singing, shopping, and spending time with family. Whether gathered at camp, around a card table, or simply enjoying time together, Julie had a way of making people laugh, and her unforgettable laugh was one of the things those who knew her will remember most. She was strong-willed, spirited, and giving in the ways she knew how, and she devoted much of her life to caring for her family.

Family and friends will be received on Friday, June 26th from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. at the J&J Spratt Funeral Home, Inc., 1612 Third Avenue, New Brighton, who was in charge of her arrangements, and where additional viewing will be held at 2 p.m. until the time of a funeral service at 3 p.m. on Saturday, June 27th. Reverend Angela Smith will officiate the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions be made in Julie’s memory to a local animal rescue or shelter, in honor of the love she had for her dogs and all animals or the charity of your choice.

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

Nello Mazzoni, Jr. (1949-2026)

Nello Mazzoni, Jr., 76, of Moon Township, passed away peacefully on Saturday June 20, 2026 in his home surrounded by his family.

He was born on November 23rd, 1949 in Braddock, the son of the late Nello Mazzoni and Louise DeRiggi Mazzoni. He is survived by his devoted wife of 55 years, Marlene Kraly Mazzoni, his sons, Michael (Tiffany Beckwith) and Philip (Marta Napoleone Mazzoni) and two granddaughters, Lillian Beckwith (Ben Morris) and Ruby Beckwith.

Nello graduated from the University of Pittsburgh in 1971 and 1974 with a BS and MS in Mathematics and retired from Lucas Systems, Inc. in Wexford.

Family and friends will be received on Saturday June 27th from 10 A.M. until the time of a Memorial Blessing at 12 noon in the Huntsman Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Moon Township, 1522 Coraopolis Heights Road, Coraopolis. Private interment will take place at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent in Nello’s name to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital.

Joshua M. Tisak (1993-2026)

Joshua M. Tisak, 32, of Economy, passed away on June 21st, 2026. He was born on September 6th, 1993, a son of Nicholas and Joanne Tisak. He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Nick and Margaret Tisak, his maternal grandparents, Joseph “Digger Joe” and Mary Ann Sasinovich and his cousin, Jessica Tisak.

In addition to his parents, he is survived by his sister, Nicole (John) Gehan, his twin brother, James (Julianna) Tisak, his other brother, Joseph Tisak, his cherished nieces and nephews: Ava, Ella, Ethan, Kristianna, Zane, Clara, and Lorraine; as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins, and countless friends.

Joshua was a proud graduate of Ambridge Area High School with its Class of 2012. He had a passion for cars and trucks and loved driving. He loved spending time with his family and enjoyed working outdoors. He was a devoted member of Good Samaritan Catholic Church, part of St. Luke the Evangelist Parish, where he faithfully served as an altar server and was actively involved in many parish activities. He was always willing to lend a helping hand, often volunteering to do odd jobs for others without ever being asked. His kindness, generosity, and selfless spirit touched the lives of everyone who knew him. He will always be remembered for his heart of gold.

Family and friends will be received on Thursday, June 25th from 2-4 P.M. and 5-7 P.M. at Alvarez-Hahn Funeral Services and Cremation, LLC, 547 8th Street, Ambridge, who was in charge of his arrangements, and where departing prayers will be offered on Friday, June 26th, at 9:30 A.M. followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 A.M. at Good Samaritan Catholic Church, St. Luke the Evangelist Parish, 725 Glenwood Avenue, Ambridge. Interment will follow at Saints Peter and Paul Cemetery.

Francis M. “Fran” Oakley (1939-2026)

Francis M. “Fran” Oakley, 86, formerly of Chippewa, passed away on June 21st, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

He was born in Monaca on September 16th, 1939, a son of the late Walter L. and Catherine (Manning) Oakley, Sr. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Janet Oakley, and his brothers, Walter Oakley Jr., Michael Oakley, and William Oakley. He is survived by his children, Heather (Eric) Brutout and Hope Miller, his grandchildren: Nathan (Brittany) Johnston, Natalie (Jordan) Johnston Eaton, Haley Miller and Andrew Miller; as well as his great-grandchildren: Brady and Nora Eaton, Zayne and Salem Johnston.

Francis was a graduate of Monaca High School and Robert Morris College. He was a veteran of the United States Army. He was a member of Chippewa United Methodist Church. He retired after many years as the CFO of ColFin Specialty Steel Corp. He was a former President of the Accounting Association of Washington County, and was on the board of directors for the Washington YMCA. He was an avid golfer and was a member of both Lone Pine Golf Club and Seven Oaks Country Club.

Friends will be received on Wednesday, June 24th, from 5 p.m. until the time of the funeral 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.

Pastor Gary Hilton will officiate the service.

Members of the Beaver County Special Unit will conduct Military Honors for their fallen comrade at 4:30pm at the funeral Home.

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