Category: Obituaries

David McCutcheon (1943-2026)

David McCutcheon, 83, of New Brighton, passed away on August 4th, 2026.

He was born in Fallston on June 10th, 1943, a son of the late John D. and Kathryn E. (Bellan) McCutcheon.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his first wife, Joann (Basile) McCutcheon, his twin daughters, Sherrie Lynn and Terri Sue, his sister-in-law, Cathy Krouse Sterrett and his father-in-law, Rev. Robert G. Krouse.

He is survived by his loving and caring wife of 40 years, Karen (Krouse) McCutcheon, his brother, John (Bonnie) McCutcheon, his three brothers-in-law, David (Beth) Krouse, Kent Sterrett and John (Sue) Basile, his three sons, David (Jeannine) McCutcheon, Lee (Carrie Paradise) McCutcheon and Bryce (Jennie) McCutcheon, his ten grandchildren: Jeremy (D.J), Ian, Brogan, Marina, Grace (Tyler), Elena, Logan, Jessy, Kara and Cadence; as well as his two great-granddaughters, Raylan and Huntley, many wonderful nieces, nephews and cousins and his mother-in-law, Grace (Wadding) Krouse.

David proudly served in the United States Army Reserves from 1964 to 1977, demonstrating his dedication to his country. Believing deeply in the value of education, he spent ten years attending night school while working to earn his accounting degree. His perseverance paid off as he built a successful career as an accountant, with his work taking him from coast to coast throughout the United States. He always enjoyed serving others. He drove buses for McCarter’s Tours and the New Brighton Area School District. Service to his community remained one of his greatest passions. He proudly volunteered as a firefighter with the New Brighton, Chippewa, Independence, and Bensalem Fire Companies. He loved golfing, bowling, and, above all, spending time with his family. Nothing brought him greater joy than his grandchildren. He was their biggest fan, celebrating their accomplishments, encouraging their dreams, and creating memories they will cherish forever. His life was defined by hard work, service, kindness, and devotion to those he loved. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, former colleagues, fellow firefighters, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy of dedication and love will continue to live on in the hearts of those he leaves behind. He was a member of Chippewa United Methodist Church and was a member of the American Legion, Post #19, New Brighton.

Friends and family will be received on Friday, August 7th, from 4-7 p.m. and on Saturday, August 8th from 10 a.m. until the time of a service at 11 a.m. in the J&J Spratt Funeral Home Inc., 1612 Third Avenue, New Brighton, who was in charge of his arrangements.

Pastor Susan Moudry will officiate the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in his name to The Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation or New Brighton Volunteer Fire Department.

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.

Eleanor Carol Havranek (1931-2026)

Eleanor Carol Havranek, 94, of Conway, passed away on August 3rd, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family.

She was born in West Aliquippa on September 2nd, 1931, a daughter of the late Mike and Anna (Petrako) Simon.

In addition to her parents, Eleanor was preceded in death by her husband, Rudolph Havranek, two brothers, Mike and Joseph Simon and five sisters: Mary Maynard, Annie Slobodian, Helen Rutkowski, Irene Janicki and Agnes Myers.

She is survived by her three children, Dr. Gary (Carrie) Havranek of Beaver Falls, Lori Havranek of Beaver Falls and David (Maureen) Havranek of Monaca, four grandchildren: Andrew Havranek, Brandon Havranek, Emily (Luke) Reynolds and Orion Czarnecki; as well as a great-granddaughter, Hazel Reynolds and several nieces and nephews.

Eleanor worked at the former J&L Steel and retired from Complete Family Vision Care in 2019. She was a longtime member of the former Our Lady of Peace Roman Catholic Church in Conway. She was an avid reader who enjoyed vacationing in both Key West and Las Vegas with her family. She also enjoyed going to Penguins games.

All services for Eleanor were private. Arrangements have been entrusted to the GABAUER-LUTTON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES Inc., 117 Blackhawk Road Beaver Falls, PA 15010.

Private entombment at Sylvania Hill Memorial Park, 273 PA-68, Rochester, PA 15074.

Brian McCarl (1951-2026)

Brian McCarl, 74, of Beaver Falls, passed away on Sunday, August 2nd, 2026. He was born in Beaver Falls on September 20th, 1951.

Brian graduated from Beaver Falls High School in 1969 and earned his B.A. degree from Gettysburg College in 1974 where he was a proud member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity and played football for the Bullets. He went on to build a respected career as a Commercial and Industrial Plumbing Estimator with McCarl’s Inc. before starting his own company, BMC Mechanical Contracting, and then retiring from D. Dennis & Son, Inc. in Pittsburgh. For more than three decades, Brian devoted himself to the Little Beaver Lions Club, serving in numerous leadership roles including three terms each as President and Vice President, four terms as Membership Chairman, twenty terms on the Board of Directors, and Chairman of eleven club committees.

His dedication to Lions Clubs International extended throughout District 14-N and Multiple District 14, where he headed many district and statewide committees, served as Zone and Region Chairman, and ultimately was elected as the District Governor (1999–2000). He contributed extensively to officer training, long-range planning, and state convention leadership, earning respect from Lions across Pennsylvania.

Brian’s leadership at the non-profit Pennsylvania Lions Beacon Lodge Camp was among his most cherished work. Over 16 years as a board member, he served as Vice President, President, Fundraising Chairman, and Chairman of the Property Committee. His efforts helped raise hundreds of thousands of dollars for critical improvements, including underground water and sanitary line projects and annual fundraising events that strengthened the camp’s mission of providing camping experiences for physically challenged children and adults, as well as disabled veterans and their families. He also served with distinction on the PA Lions Sight Conservation & Eye Research Foundation, where he spent 18 years as a board member, including 4 years each as Vice Chairman and Chairman. Brian was deeply engaged in his local community. He was a life member, past President, and past Treasurer of the Little Beaver Historical Society. He managed the McCarl Family Foundation, served on the Chippewa United Methodist Church Board, was Past President and Director of the Lighthouse for the Blind in New Brighton, PA and volunteered more than 15 years coaching girls’ softball where his daughters competed. Throughout his life, Brian received numerous honors for his service, including the Lions International Presidential Medal, four International President Certificates of Appreciation, multiple Progressive Melvin Jones Fellowships, club president excellence awards, the Pennsylvania Lions Foundation Award, Founders Membership Growth Awards, and several other district and international recognitions.

Heis survived by his loving daughters Megan McCarl Brown (Hon. Todd E. Brown), Maura McCarl Chick (Tony Chick), and Melissa McCarl (Chad Kraynyk), and his grandchildren Andrew, Acen, Avery, Annaliese, Vesper and Rowan. He is also survived by his brothers, Foster J. McCarl (Carol) and Shawn McCarl (Kim). He was preceded in death by his father, Foster McCarl, his mother, Muriel P. McCarl, his brother, Kevin McCarl, and his grandchild, Carter James Brown. Brian lived a life of generosity, leadership, and heartfelt service. Through his volunteerism he touched countless lives and his legacy will continue to be felt in Beaver County, across Pennsylvania, and throughout the Lions community for generations. He will be remembered by his family for his passion for American history, his support of Pittsburgh sports teams and the memories shared together on Hilton Head Island. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Brian’s memory to the Pennsylvania Lions Beacon Lodge Camp, 114 State Route 103 South, Mount Union, PA 17066.

Friends may visit with family to honor Brian on Friday August 7, 2026, from 4-6 p.m. at Corless-Kunselman Funeral Services located at 3801 4th Avenue, Beaver Falls, who was in charge of his arrangements. Visitation is also offered from 10a-12p on Saturday August 8th followed immediately by a Memorial Service at the same location. The Little Beaver Lions club, 808 Plumb Street, Darlington, will also hold a memorial service for him on Saturday, August 8th at 11:30 a.m.

Interment will be private at Sylvania Hills Memorial Park, 273-PA 68, Rochester.

John B. “Yo” Hannan (1949-2026)

John B. “Yo” Hannan, 76, of many places, passed away on July 9th, 2026. He was born on August 31st, 1949.

He was known to many as “Yo”, his friends called him quirky, unique, opinionated, and unforgettable. He could look intimidating, but those who knew him found him to be a kind and gentle soul.

He grew up in Pittsburgh’s Mt. Washington neighborhood with his parents, Tom and Victoria (Furno), (who preceded him in death), his brothers, Tom and Tim and his sister, Caroline. The true loves of his life were his wife and partner, Carol (Howe) and his daughter, Rowan.

As a child, John contracted polio and spent many months being treated in the iron lung at Pittsburgh Municipal Hospital under care of Dr. Jonas Salk. In high school, he toyed with the idea of becoming a priest (for the easy life) and did a brief stint at Bishop’s Latin School before finishing at St. Justin’s High School, where he made many lifelong friends. His strict Catholic schooling often resurfaced when a newscaster used improper grammar. He would shake his head and remark, “It’s their only job.”

During the Vietnam War, he served in the U.S. Air Force and used his skill with languages to become a Vietnamese translator with the 6994th Security Squadron. He flew many missions in his favorite aircraft, the EC-47, and later enjoyed yearly reunions with his squadron.

After his military service, he attended community college for IT and then motorcycle mechanics school in Florida before settling on the profession he loved as a Steamfitter with UA Local 449. He combined his skills as a steamfitter with his love of diving to become a commercial diver, navigating Pittsburgh’s rivers with Vince Hammill on the sternwheeler Katie H. Through his connections working on the river, he had the rare opportunity to bring towboats all the way up the Mississippi and Tombigbee rivers from Texas to Pittsburgh.

He led an interesting life and followed his passions wherever they led. He loved snow skiing and scuba diving, often sharing those adventures with his wife Carol. Together, they traveled the world, eventually falling in love with Australia during a trip to the Great Barrier Reef and decided to make their home in Sydney. For many years they enjoyed sampling the beer in pubs and playing trivia with friends.  Later, work took his family to The Netherlands where they enjoyed Dutch culture in The Hague before returning to where they started in Pittsburgh.

Motorcycles stood above the rest of all his passions, His garage was always full of Harleys, BMWs, Triumphs, Guzzis, and a rotating cast of “projects.” He always had a rally or poker run to attend, and he rode his motorcycles back and forth across the USA and Australia many times. His unique “biker look” even got him cast in the movie Striking Distance. In everything he did, he only knew one speed: fast! Much to Yo’s surprise and delight, he found out he was a father at 47 while backpacking around the world. His daughter, Rowan, was born during a brief stint in California and grew up playing in the nose of his sidecar. She made him the proudest papa ever.

In his later years, he loved spending time at his friend Red’s house in Florida, searching for his beloved Astrovans, reading science-fiction, watching the birds, and smoking his cigars. He will live on in our memories and the small moments he leaves behind – the sound of a motorcycle passing by or scent of cigar smoke in the air. Hopefully his best friend, the Big E, is there to greet him for his next journey.

An Irish Wake is being planned by family and internment will be at the National Cemetery of the Alleghenies, 1158 Morgan Road, Bridgeville.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the branch of Huntsman Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

To add tributes, visit www.huntsmanfuneralhomes.com (click here)

Paul L. Zmok (1950-2026)

Paul L. Zmok, 76, of Center Township, formerly of New Brighton, passed away peacefully on August 1st, 2026, at Allegheny General Hospital.

He was born in Mishawaka, Indiana on January 21st, 1950, the son of the late Michael J. and Anna Lajciak Zmok.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Christine L. Grant Zmok and a nephew, Thomas Zmok. He is survived by one son and daughter in law, Michael J. and Becky Zmok of New Sewickley Township, a daughter, Bobbie-Jo Brelloch of Center Township, six grandchildren: Tyler Brelloch and his fiance, Alex, D.J. Brelloch and his girlfriend, Ashley, Dustyn Brelloch, Sr. and his girlfriend, Lauryn, Carson Brelloch and his girlfriend, Riley, Landon Zmok and his girlfriend, Isabella and Logan Zmok and his girlfriend Mackenzee; as well as six great- grandchildren: Kennedy, Weston, Trayce, Averi, Dustyn, Jr., and Dawson; along with one brother and sister in law, Frank and Gail Zmok of Deer Island, Oregon, a cousin, who Paul considered a brother, Nick Pintur of Beaver Falls and several nieces and nephews.

Paul was a retired maintenance employee with the New Brighton Water Treatment Plant. He was Catholic by faith and loved fishing, attending car cruises, going to the family camp and riding his Harley-Davidson. He mostly enjoyed spending time with his family and cherished his grandkids.

Friends will be received on Wednesday, August 5th, from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. in The William Murphy Funeral Home, Inc., 349 Adams Street, Rochester, who was in charge of his arrangements, and where a blessing service will be held on Thursday, August 6th at 11 a.m. Interment will be at Sylvania Hills Memorial Park, 273 PA-68, Rochester. The family wishes that memorial contributions be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital.

Kenneth Edwin McClain, Sr. (1965-2026)

Kenneth Edwin McClain, Sr., 60, of Enon Valley, passed away on August 2nd, 2026.

He was born in Beaver Falls on September 1st, 1965, a son of the late Eugene and Rebecca McClain.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his siblings, Kevin McClain, Kitty Francis and Karen Iser.

He is survived by his son, Kenneth McClain, Jr. and his stepdaughter, Aimee Peel.

Kenneth was a man of simple pleasures who found joy in the smallest of life’s offerings. He was a diligent laborer in the manufacturing industry until his retirement, showcasing an ethic that was both hardworking and dedicated. His life was a testament to the beauty of an honest day’s work, and he held a deep-seated belief in the dignity of labor. He loved fishing and hunting and spending time outdoors in nature. He was an avid Pittsburgh sports fan, following both the Steelers and Pirates diligently.

In accordance with his wishes, there will be no services.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Corless-Kunselman Funeral Services, LLC, 3801 4th Avenue, Beaver Falls.

Marian E. “Babe” Konopka (1946-2026)

Marian E. “Babe” Konopka, 79, of Hopewell, passed away peacefully on July 30th, 2026. She was born on December 6th, 1946, a daughter of the late Paul and Ann Slepsky.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Andrew “Dewey” Konopka and her brothers, Paul “Bug” Slepsky and Ray Slepsky.

She is survived by her children, Andrew P. “Dewey” (Lori) Konopka and Kimberly (Bruce) Heisler, her siblings: John (Judy) Slepsky, Jeanie (Wayne) Hill, Gloria “Muff” (Jim) Hart, Rosie (Dan) Dopirak, and Jimmy (Shari) Slepsky; as well as her grandchildren: Shelby Heisler, Annie Giangiuli, Cooper Heisler, V Konopka, Dewey Konopka, and Emma Konopka; along with numerous loving nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

Marian enjoyed spending time at the casino, especially playing cards. She had a deep love for Christ and cherished her family dearly. She was especially proud of her grandchildren and treasured the time she spent with them.

In accordance with her wishes, services are private.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Alvarez-Hahn Funeral Service and Cremation, LLC, 547 8th Street, Ambridge.

Ronald J. Mazzetti (1953-2026)

Ronald J. Mazzetti, 73, passed peacefully on July 31st, 2026, at Beaver Medical Center.

He was born on April 28th, 1953, the beloved son of the late Ronald Mazzetti and Vera (Ferry) Mazzetti.

He is survived by his loving wife, Lisa, his sister, Lea (Frank) Corbett, his stepmother, Naomi Mazzetti, his son, Tyler and many extended family members, friends, and loved ones who will forever treasure his memory.

Ronald graduated from Moon High School with its class of 1971. He was a Communications Workers of America member and was a retired Verizon lineman. He was also a devoted husband to his beloved wife, Lisa. He cherished his family and will be remembered for his kindness, loyalty, and the many lives he touched. His warmth, generosity, and unwavering love for his family will remain in the hearts of all who knew him.

In accordance with his wishes, services are private.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Alvarez-Hahn Funeral and Cremation Services, LLC, 547 8th Street, Ambridge.

Thomas E. Olshanski (Passed on July 22nd, 2026)

Thomas E. Olshanski, 66, of Greensboro, North Carolina, formerly of Monaca, passed away on July 22nd, 2026.

Thomas graduated from Monaca High School with the Class of 1977 and later completed Technician Training School in 1979, building a foundation for the years ahead. He was employed at Metals USA, where he was known for his reliability, dedication, and quiet commitment to doing his work well. He was a faith-filled man whose Christian faith guided the way he lived each day. He was a member of Awake Church in Winston Salem, North Carolina, and he especially loved going to church and listening to worship music. His faith was something he practiced and helping others was his passion. Those who knew him will remember the kindness, encouragement, and generosity he shared so freely. He loved landscaping, especially tending to roses. He enjoyed making sawdust through furniture and woodworking projects, often while listening to oldies. These interests reflected the patient, thoughtful, and creative nature that so many admired in him. Whether he was working outdoors, building something with care, or enjoying music,  approached life with appreciation and purpose.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Stanley and Josephine Olshanski. He is survived by his wife of 46 years, Mary Kay (Yuran) Olshanski, who shared with him a lifetime of love, companionship, and devotion. He is also survived by his children, Dominick Olshanski and Stephanie Olshanski and her husband, Michael McConnell, who were a source of great pride and joy in his life, his siblings: Stanley (Mary Ann) Olshanski, Karen Phillips, Mary (Bobby) Springer, Jim Olshanski (Regina Lavalle), two sister in laws, Rebecca (Mark) Stretton, and Karen (Joe) Tsai, as well as many nieces, nephews and extended family members, including his special family, Wes, Evie and Liam Atkinson.

He will be remembered as a loving husband, devoted father, caring brother, and faithful friend. His creativity and huge smile will live on in his daughter and his integrity and love for the ocean will live on in his son.

Family and friends will be received on Saturday, August 15th from 12 noon until a celebration of life at 2 p.m. at SIMPSON FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES, 1119 Washington Avenue, Monaca, who was in charge of his arrangements.

Jeremy Caskey will officiate the service.

The family as suggested memorial contributions be made, if desired, in Tom’s memory to CurePSP-www.psp.org.

To share online condolences, view Tom’s video tribute, or get directions, please visit www.simpsonfuneralhome.com.

Karen Susan Charlton (1962-2026)

Karen Susan Charlton, 64, of Ambridge, passed away peacefully at home on July 31st, 2026.

She was born on February 3rd, 1962, a daughter of the late Arthur and Margaret Gaertner.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother and sister-in-law, Bill and Donna Gaertner.

She was the devoted wife of Lawrence Charlton and a loving mom to Parker Charlton (Natasha Charlton), Abbie Charlton (Buddy Cowles), and Preston Charlton (Jordan Charlton). She adored her grandchildren: Malayna, Maddox, Reagan, Dawson, and Vada; she treasured the time she retired early to spend with them. She also loved her step-children: Larry Charlton and his son, Blake, Aaron Charlton (Jennifer) and their son, Lochlan, Natasha Jungling (Eric), Savannah Bledsoe (Demar) and their children, Pietro, Talon, and Tymber; the late Nicholas Gavulich; and Clayton Gavulich (Brittany) and their children, Baeleigh and Cameron. She also had a special place in her heart for numerous nieces and nephews and for many of her children’s friends who became her beloved “bonus children.” Her home was always open, and she made everyone feel welcome, loved, and part of the family. She is also survived by her sisters, Peggy Watson (Rich) and Linda McAfee (Bob) and her in-laws, Scott Charlton (Susan), Kevin Charlton, and Heather Charlton, along with many nieces and nephews.

Karen was a member of One in Christ Church in Ambridge and lived her life rooted in faith and family. She worked for more than 30 years at Comcast before retiring to spend more time with those she loved. She loved cruises, playing cards, visiting the casino, and cheering on the Pittsburgh Penguins. Her laughter, warmth, and open-door hospitality will be lovingly remembered by family and friends.

A memorial visitation will be held on Thursday, August 6th from 2-4 P.M. & 6 P.M. until the time of a prayer service at 7:30 P.M. in the John Syka Funeral Home, 833 Kennedy Drive, Ambridge, who was in charge of her arrangements. A Celebration of Life will also be held on Sunday, August 9th at 4 P.M. at One in Christ Church, 798 Park Road, Ambridge.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the St. Peregrine Cancer Shrine at cancershrine.org (click here).