Joanne D’Itri Fantone (1955-2025)

Joanne D’Itri Fantone, 69, of Midland, passed away on September 13th, 2025 surrounded by the love of her family. She was born on December 3rd, 1955, a daughter of the late Joseph A. D’Itri and Mary Ann (Zuppe) D’Itri. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her infant brother, Patrick D’Itri. She is survived by her husband of 46 years, Frank Fantone, her children, and grandchildren, as well as her siblings: Anthony (Tammy Grim), Dominic (Ruth Postich), Mary Catherine (Patton), Joseph Jr. (Ranee Dishler), Salvador (Natalie Thompson), and Virginia (Alan Lopata). She is also survived by many nieces and nephews who adored her: Caitlin and Brianna D’Itri, Emily, Aaron, and Alex D’Itri, MaryAnn Patton, Megan, Morgan, and Joseph G. D’Itri, Katrine, Gabriel, and Anna D’Itri.Joanne was a lifelong resident of Midland and a proud graduate of Midland Lincoln High School, Class of 1974. She shared 46 wonderful years of marriage with her devoted husband, Frank Fantone. Together, they built a life rooted in faith, love, and family, raising three children, Laura (Bryan Baca), Mary (John Paul Dickey), and Michael (Angela Galik), and cherishing five grandchildren: Bee Dickey, Isabel Dickey, Ethan Baca, Max Fantone, and Madison Fantone. Joanne found her greatest joy in family gatherings, holidays, and especially their treasured vacations together.
Joanne was a woman of deep Catholic faith and service who was actively involved in her parish and the Girl Scouts, first as a scout herself and later as a dedicated leader with her daughters’ troops. Her commitment to service and community was matched only by her enthusiasm for life. She was a passionate Pittsburgh Steelers fan who rarely missed a game and attended many over the years, cheering with unwavering loyalty. She delighted in concerts and embraced a wide range of musical genres, and her love for the arts extended to the theater, where she found joy in live performances at the Lincoln Park Performing Arts Center in Midland, among other venues, and enjoyed the storytelling they offered.
Joanne was known for her sharp wit and infectious sense of humor: she could light up a room with a well-timed quip and always knew how to make others laugh, even in difficult moments. Beneath her warmth was a woman of remarkable strength, who faced adversity with grace and determination. She was a champion of truth, never afraid to speak up for what she believed in, and a fierce ally to those in need. Her voice was steady, her heart generous, and her presence a source of comfort and courage to many.
She also found great joy behind the lens of a camera, capturing candid moments of family gatherings, holidays, and vacations with a keen eye and loving heart. Her photographs told stories of connection and joy, and she had a special gift for finding beauty in nature—from blooming flowers to quiet sunsets. Just as she preserved memories through photography, Joanne also expressed her love through baking, especially her intricately decorated cookies made for weddings, holidays, and birthdays. Each batch was crafted with care and creativity, becoming a sweet centerpiece of celebration and tradition. Through both her lens and her oven, Joanne left behind a legacy of warmth, artistry, and the world as she saw it: full of wonder, grace, and love. Joanne’s legacy is one of unwavering faith, fierce love for her family, and a joyful spirit that touched everyone she met. Her warmth, laughter, and devotion will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
Family and friends will be received on Thursday, September 18th from 3-6 p.m. at the SCHWERHA-NOLL FUNERAL HOME, 629 Midland Avenue, Midland, who was in charge of his arrangements. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Blaise Roman Catholic Church, 772 Ohio Avenue, Midland, at 10:30am on Friday, September 19th. Burial will take place at Beaver Cemetery, Buffalo Street, Beaver. Online condolences may be shared at nollfuneral.com.

Margaret Stella Woolslayer (1933-2025)

Margaret Stella Woolslayer, 91, of West Creek in Stafford Township, New Jersey, formerly of Rochester, where she resided most of her life, passed away on September 9th, 2025, in Terrace of Seacrest Village in Little Egg Harbor, New Jersey. She was born in Aliquippa on September 10th, 1933, a daughter of the late Joseph and Margaret Hildebrand Williams. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Donald E. Woolslayer Sr., as well as eleven siblings and one grand-daughter, Sophie Hannah Woolslayer. She is survived by two daughters and sons-in-law, Janet L. and Gerard McHugh, of West Creek, New Jersey, and Lori Ann and Philip Bock, of Hebron, Maryland, two sons and daughters-in-law, Donald E. Jr. and Heather Woolslayer, of Linwood, New Jersey, and Robert A. and Amanda Woolslayer, of Northampton, Pennsylvania, ten grandchildren, a sister, Dorothy Wilhelm of Cranberry Township, a sister-in-law, Evelyn Williams of San Diego, California, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. She was a retired cook who worked at Quigley Catholic High School of Baden. Margaret was a devout Catholic and faithfully attended mass for many years at St. Cecilia Roman Catholic Church in Rochester, part of Our Lady Of The Valley Parish, where she was a Christian Mother. Once she moved to New Jersey, she became a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Barnegat. Throughout her years, Faith was central to Margaret’s life. Margaret cherished time with her grandchildren above all else. She loved to play games, build puzzles, and attend many of their extracurricular activities. She regularly attended BINGO at the local churches and loved to travel to Atlantic City and Las Vegas with her sisters which she did annually for many years. Margie was a talented cross stitcher who created numerous treasures for her family. She lovingly stitched detailed works of art such as “The Last Supper” for each of her children which are displayed in their dining rooms. Margaret’s love poured out in her kitchen as well. She was an avid baker who was locally famous for her Christmas cookies which she shared with family and friends across the country. Her Danish pastry apple pie and whoopie pies were a staple and enjoyed by many. She was a true Pittsburgher being a lifelong Penguins and Steelers fan proudly wearing the black and gold. The family will receive friends on Saturday, September 20th, at St. Cecilia Roman Catholic Church, 632 Virginia Avenue, Rochester from 10 a.m. until the time of Mass at 11 a.m. Interment will follow in Sylvania Hills Memorial Park, 273 PA-68, Rochester. All arrangements are entrusted to William Murphy Funeral Home Inc. 349 Adams Street, Rochester.

Joseph Thomas Ondrusek (1978-2025)

Joseph Thomas Ondrusek, 47, of Center Township, formerly of Beaver Falls, passed away on September 10th, 2025 at UPMC Presbyterian Hospital of Pittsburgh after a brief battle with lung cancer.

He was born in Beaver on August 16th, 1978, a son of Doris Elaine Ondrusek and the late Thomas Lee Ondrusek. In addition to his mother, he is survived by his wife of 20 years, Emily Lynne Ondrusek, his sons, Tyler Michael Ondrusek and Ethan Thomas Ondrusek, his brother, Jeffrey Michael (Carrie) Ondrusek and his sister, Christin Pauline (Efrain) Barron.

Joseph worked as a Project Manager with Aethon for over 20 years. His greatest passion was his family and the love he had for his wife and boys was apparent. He loved watching Tyler and Ethan play sports filling him with endless pride. He volunteered countless hours coaching youth sports and loved every second. He was an avid sports fan of the Michigan Wolverines and a phenomenal cook. To know Joseph was to love him.

In accordance with Joseph’s wishes, all services were private. Professional arrangements have been entrusted to the Noll Funeral Home, Inc., 333 Third Street, Beaver. Online condolences may be shared at nollfuneral.com.

Emilio John “Willie” Frank (1929-2025)

Emilio John “Willie” Frank, 96, of Rochester Township, passed away in Rochester Manor on September 12th, 2025. He was born in Rochester on January 27th, 1929, a son of the late James V. and Rose C. Floccari Frank. He is survived by his sister, Rose Cecilia Frank of Rochester Township, with whom Willie resided with for many years, as well as one sister-in-law, Janice Frank McConaughy of Oakdale, Pennsylvania, a beloved cousin, Joseph Emmanuel of Export, Pennsylvania and numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by five brothers: Andrew, Robert S. “Spot”, Sylvester, Vincent and Alfred Frank; as well as four sisters: Olga M. Frank, Eileen P. Miller, Dolores J. “DeeDee” Frank and Virginia M. DeBarge Fox; along with five brothers-in-law: Walter Miller, John DeBarge, James Fox, Frank Mavero and Robert McConaughy; as well as four sisters-in-law: Marilyn Frank, Juanita Frank Mavero, Agnes Frank Kathleen Frank: along with three nephews, David G. Frank, Joey Miller, David A. Frank and one great-niece, Falisha Frank.

Emilio was a retired employee of the former Westinghouse Corporation, which is currently known as Eaton Corporation. He was also a member of St. Cecilia Roman Catholic Church of Rochester, part of Our Lady Of The Valley Parish, where he had been an usher for many years. He was a 1946 graduate of Rochester Area High School who went on to receive his B.S degree in Business Administration in 1957 from Geneva College on Beaver Falls. He was also a former member of the Rochester Turners who loved his garden. He also loved baseball and he pitched for many years. He was also very well known for the wine that he made. Friends will be received on Wednesday, September 17th, from 3 p.m. until 7 p.m., at the William Murphy Funeral Home Inc. 349 Adams Street, Rochester, who was in charge of his arrangements. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Thursday, September 18th at 10 a.m., in St. Cecilia Roman Catholic Church, 632 Virginia Avenue, Rochester. Father Christopher Mannerino will be the celebrant of the Mass. Interment will follow in St. Cecilia Cemetery, 761 Allendale Road, New Brighton. The family wishes memorial contributions be made to St. Cecilia Roman Catholic Church, 628 Virginia Avenue, Rochester, PA, 15074, or a charity of your choice.

Emanuel “Strut” Stratos (1938-2025)

Emanuel “Strut” Stratos, 87, passed away on September 11th, 2025. He was born in Pittsburgh on July 1st, 1938, the son of the late Emmanuel and Anna Stratos. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his loving wife, Eileen Laris Stratos and his sisters, Lucy Manos and Catherine Burt. He is survived by his daughter, Michelle (J.T.) Pennington, his son, Michael (Melissa) Stratos, his grandchildren: Colton (Payton) Gossett, Morgan (Boone) Lyons, Morgan (Kris) Cooper, Logan Pennington, Hannah (Cory) Beam, Zoe Stratos, Maddie Stratos and Keiren Bashor; along with his great-grandchildren, Calder, Bridge and Rowan.

Emanuel worked as a machine operator for various metal companies. He did so for 40 years up until his retirement. Emanuel was a big sports fan. He was a great basketball player and enjoyed watching and rooting for the Pittsburgh Steelers. Emanuel ventured to Vegas to play the slot machines. He loved dancing and adored being the center of attention. He was a dedicated husband, father and Papou who loved his family with a passion. Emanuel was known by many, loved by all, and will be missed always.

All are welcome to gather for a visitation on Monday, September 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 funeral service will be held on Tuesday, September 16th, at 10 A.M. Interment will follow in Economy Cemetery, 1691 Ridge Road Extension #1601, Ambridge.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Emanuel’s name are suggested to the National MS Society.

Douglas John Allison (1972-2025)

Douglas John Allison, 52, of Beaver, formerly of Center Township, passed away on September 9th, 2025 at UPMC Shadyside Hospital of Pittsburgh after a brief illness.

He was born in Aliquippa on October 3rd, 1972, a son of the late John and Carol Allison. He is survived by his brother, Steve (Julie) Allison, his beloved nephews, Jeffrey and Bradley Allison, his lifelong friends, Mike and Sharon Nalli, Amy and Brian Workman and their families. Douglas is also survived by his aunts, his cousins and many friends and coworkers. He was fortunate to be loved by his blood relatives and his friends who were a second family. Douglas was a 1991 graduate of Center Area High School who graduated from Robert Morris University. He then went on to complete his pilot training at the Community College of Beaver County. He most recently worked as a pilot for the past 25 years with Southwest Airlines.

Friends will be received on Monday, September 15th, from 6 P.M. to 8 P.M. and on Tuesday, September 16th, from 12 noon to 1 P.M. in the Noll Funeral Home, Inc., 333 Third Street, Beaver, who was in charge of his arrangements. A graveside service will be held on Tuesday, September 16th following a visitation in Beaver Cemetery.

Online condolences may be shared at nollfuneral.com.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributes may be made to the Beaver County Humane Society, 3394 Broadhead Road, Aliquippa, PA 15001.

Steve Hapach (1932-2025)

Steve Hapach, 93, formerly of Industry, passed away peacefully on September 10th, 2025, during rehabilitation in Irwin, Pennsylvania with his family by his side. Steve was residing at Tapestry Senior Living in Moon Township. He was born in Midland on January 26th, 1932, a son of the late Louis and Kathryn (Huelic) Hapach. In addition to his parents and his beloved wife of 68 years, Lorraine, he was preceded in death by two sons, David Craig Hapach and Gary Stephen Hapach, who perished in the USAir Flight 427 tragedy, along with his brothers, Matt and Nicholas Hapach and his sisters, Elizabeth Tepovich and Mildred Wain. He is survived by his son, Brian Douglas (Nadine) Hapach of Jeannette, Pennsylvania, two daughters-in-law, Barbara Bosworth and Carol Hapach, his grandchildren: Lauren, Stephen, Emily, Amy, Michael, and Adam Hapach; as well as his brother, Iven Hapach, along with numerous nieces and nephews. Steve had a long career as a steelworker at Crucible Steel in Midland, followed by his work as a security guard at various locations. Steve was an avid hunter who loved taking yearly family trips to Myrtle Beach in his trailer and enjoyed singing in the choir at St. Blaise Parish in Midland. Once his children were grown and on their own, he and his wife Lorraine, took numerous trips, including traveling to Hawaii, the Caribbean, Europe and North Africa.

Friends will be received on Monday, September 15th from 2 p.m. until 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. in the Schwerha-Noll Funeral Home, 629 Midland Avenue, Midland, who was in charge of his arrangements. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, September 16th at 10:30 a.m. at St. Blaise Parish, 772 Ohio Avenue, Midland, followed by a private interment at Beaver Cemetery on Buffalo Street in Beaver. Online condolences may be shared at nollfuneral.com.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Steve’s name may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Diane Hathaway (1952-2025)

Diane Hathaway, 73, of Ambridge, passed away on September 13th, 2025. She was born on April 25th, 1952, the daughter of the late Henry G. and Elizabeth Ford. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brothers, Terry Ford, Ronald Ford Sr. and Ronald Ford Jr. She is survived by her children, George Frederick (fiancé Kim Besong) and Tracy Bowser, her sisters, Susan Hillman and Linda McDermott, his brothers, Henry (Clara) Ford Jr. and Garry (Darlene) Ford Sr., his grandchildren, Ashley Vargon and Daniel Bowser, one great-grandchild and many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Diane dedicated many years working as a housekeeper in Sewickley. She enjoyed traveling, especially camping trips to Erie and will be remembered for the love and joy she shared with those around her.

In accordance with Diane’s wishes, services will be private. Arrangements have been entrusted to Alvarez-Hahn Funeral Services and Cremation, LLC, 547 8th Street, Ambridge.

John Edward Prosko (Passed Away on September 11th, 2025)

John Edward Prosko, 57, of Center Township, passed away at home in his sleep on September 11th, 2025. He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Jean Prosko and his daughter, Dawn Marie. John is survived by his two sons, Johnathan (Taylor) Prosko of Aliquippa and Josh (Rebecca) Prosko of Las Cruces, Texas. He is also survived by two sisters, Lisa (Brian) Carter of Center Township and Susan Yonlisky of Beaver Falls and four grandchildren: Jayden, Olivia, Noah and Lacey; along with numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. John was raised in Raccoon Township and was often referred to as “Junkman”. He enjoyed the hobby of junking. He also enjoyed the hobbies of fishing and hunting.

In accordance with John’s wishes, there will be no services. Arrangements have been entrusted to Simpson Funeral and Cremation Services, 1119 Washington Avenue, Monaca.

Anthony R. Blobner, Jr. (Passed on Septmber 10th, 2025)

Anthony R. Blobner, Jr. passed away unexpectedly at home on September 10th, 2025.

He was a son of the late Anthony R. Blobner Sr. and Irene Leek Schuster. His father died when he was 3 months old, and he was raised by his mother and stepfather, the late Oscar Schuster as well as his paternal grandparents, Louis and Caroline Blobner. In addition to his parents and stepfather, he was preceded in death by his grandparents, Louis and Caroline Blobner; his sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Ann and Bud Rea. He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Norma Feller Blobner, his daughter, Caroline (Daren) Sallis of Ellwood City, his son, Anthony T.J. Blobner of State College, his special nephews and nieces: Mike, Dan, Joyce, Sue and their families; along with many cousins and friends. The family lived in Conway for 12 years before moving to Monaca. Anthony was a proud 1960 graduate of Monaca High School, where he played football and golf and made many lifelong friends. After school, Anthony served four years in the U.S. Air Force from 1960-1964. He then worked as a supervisor at Westinghouse Electric in Beaver and retired from the Physical Plant at Penn State Beaver. He was a member of Saints Peter & Paul Church of Beaver, Our Lady of the Valley Parish, and the Knights of Columbus. He was a wonderful husband, father, uncle, and friend to all who knew him.

Friends will be received on Monday, September 15th, from 2-6 P.M., with a service to follow at Simpson Funeral & Cremation Services, 1119 Washington Avenue, Monaca, who was in charge of his arrangements.