Category: Obituaries

Matthew J. McCauley (1950-2026)

Matthew J. McCauley, 76, of Chippewa Township, passed away peacefully on November 9th, 2026, at Celebration Villa of Chippewa.

He was born in New Brighton on June 6th, 1950, a son of the late Wilbert and Blanche (Brendel) McCauley.

Matthew was a proud veteran of the United States Army, having served during the Vietnam War. He was a part of the Charlie Co. and the 1/52nd 198th L.I.B American Division during the war. He was a member of the former Highland VFW, where he served as Commander and was a member of the Beaver-Lawrence County Honor Guard. Matthew proudly assisted several local veterans’ organizations in honoring fellow veterans who had passed away, helping to ensure their service and sacrifice were remembered with dignity and respect.

He is survived by his loving wife of nearly 25 years, Debra (Smiley) McCauley, his children, Matthew McCauley Jr., Michelle (Clayton) Hamilton, and Kelly (Cory) Schmidt, Debra’s children, Megan (Mark) Helsel and Lauren (Harry) Hall, his grandchildren: Cade Hamilton, Elle Hamilton, Mila Hamilton, Luca Schmidt, Gabriel Why, Landon Hall, and Hailey Hall; as well as his siblings, Chuck (Pat) McCauley, Debbie (Eugene) McMillen, and Margaret McCauley and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his sister, Penney (John) Cockerham.

Friends and family will be received on Friday November 13th from 4 P.M. to 7 P.M. at Gabauer-Lutton Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc., 117 Blackhawk Road, Beaver Falls, who was in charge of his arrangements.

Military Honors will be rendered at the funeral home by the Beaver County Honor Guard on Saturday, November 14th at 9:45 A.M. A funeral service will follow at 10 A.M. in the funeral home chapel.

A private interment will take place at Grandview Cemetery, 139 Norwood Drive, Beaver Falls.

The family of Matthew wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff at Celebration Villa in Chippewa Township for the wonderful care given to Matt over the last year and a half. A thank you goes out to Gateway Hospice for their dedication and support during Matthew’s final months.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to his church, Mt. Olive Lutheran Church, 1154 Shenango Road, Beaver Falls, PA 15010.

To send flowers with our preferred florist or plant a memorial tree, please visit the flower store of the Gabauer Family Funeral Homes & Cremation Services by clicking here.

Anna Marie Angotti DeDominicis (Passed on November 10th, 2026)

Anna Marie Angotti DeDominicis, 82, of Freedom, passed away on November 10th, 2026.

She was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and lived a life marked by devotion, grace, education, and deep love for her family and community.

Anna Marie was the daughter of the late Frank and Elizabeth Agotti. She was raised in Freedom, Pennsylvania. She graduated from Freedom Area High School in 1962 and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree from Carlow University in 1966, majoring in Spanish. Her education reflected both her love of learning and her gift for language, two qualities that would become central to her life’s work.

She was united in marriage to the late Dr. Albert A. DeDominicis, Jr., and together they shared 55 years of marriage. Their life together was a testament to mutual respect and steadfast commitment.

She is survived by her son, Dr. Albert A. DeDominicis III, and his wife, Michelle Terreri, and her daughter, Gia Cristina, and her husband, Charles Steven Hrelec III. She was a proud and loving grandmother to Charles Steven Hrelec IV and Carina Cecile Hrelec. She is also survived by her sister-in-law, Debra DeDominicis. Her family was the center of her life, and she found great joy in their accomplishments, celebrations, and everyday moments.

Anna Marie devoted much of her life to teaching, and her career was a reflection of her patience, intelligence, and kindness. She taught Spanish at Pennfield High School in Battle Creek, Michigan for a short time before returning to Freedom, where she taught at Liberty School as a Sixth-Grade Home Room teacher. She later served as a substitute teacher in Freedom. From 1996 to 2008, she taught Spanish to preschool children ages 3 to 4 years old at Edgeworth Elementary School, where she touched countless young lives with her enthusiasm, compassion, and dedication.

Her love of language extended beyond the classroom. She spoke fluent Italian and Spanish, gifts that connected her to her heritage and enriched the many lives she touched.

She was also active in the life of her community and church. Anna Marie was a member of Christian Mothers and the former Freedom Junior Women’s Club. She was deeply involved in the PTA during the years her children were school age, always ready to lend her support and time for the benefit of others.

She will be remembered as a woman of intelligence, gentleness, and strength.

Friends will be received on Friday, November 13th from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. at Simpson Funeral & Cremation Services, 1119 Washington Avenue, Monaca, who was in charge of her arrangements, where parting prayers will be offered on Saturday, November 14th at 9:15 a.m. followed by a mass of Christian burial at 10 a.m. at St Felix Catholic Church, 450 13th Street, Freedom. Interment will follow in Calvary Cemetery, 1019 Lovi Road, Freedom.

The family of Anna Marie would like to extend a special thank you to the administration and staff at Concordia Franklin Park for their endless compassion and empathetic approach as healthcare providers. Those wishing to make a memorial contribution in Anna Marie’s memory are asked to please consider the Autism Society.

To leave an online condolence, or get directions, please visit www.simpsonfuneralhome.com.

Charles “Buzz” Kulbacki, Sr. (1949-2026)

Charles “Buzz” Kulbacki, Sr., 77, of Sewickley, passed away on November 9th, 2026, at Allegheny Health Network – Wexford.

He was born in Sewickley on October 21st, 1949, the son of the late Richard and Thelma (Blough) Kulbacki.

He is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Janine (McCarthy) Kulbacki, a daughter, Maureen (Jon) Georgiadis and a son, Charles, Jr. (Kristin Hauman) Kulbacki, 3 grandsons, Maximus and Alexander Georgiadis and Robin Hauman Kulbacki, a niece and 3 nephews: Joyce, Richard, David K. and David G.; as well as a sister-in-law, Lois Kulbacki and many additional loving family members.

Charles was a very proud member of the Sons of the American Revolution. He was also very dedicated to his community where he was a borough manager for 27 years, and a member of the Bell Acres Council for 21 years. Additionally, he served 40 faithful years as an Elder at the Fairmount ARP Church in Sewickley. He was such a witty and loving man, and his family (especially his grandchildren) were so important to him.

Family and friends are welcome to gather for a visitation on Thursday, November 12th, from 2-4 P.M. and 6-8 P.M., in the John Syka Funeral Home, Inc., 833 Kennedy Drive, Ambridge, who was in charge of his arrangements. A funeral service will also be held on Friday, November 13th, at 10:30 A.M., in Fairmount ARP Church, 2535 Fairmount Church Road, Sewickley. Everyone is asked to meet at the church. Interment will follow in the church cemetery. If you are unable to attend the funeral service, it will be live streamed via the Fairmount Presbyterian Church Facebook page.

Cain “Hop” M. Hopkins (1998-2026)

Cain “Hop” “Hoppy” M. Hopkins, 28, of Ambridge, passed away on November 7th, 2026.

He was born on August 6th, 1998, and was preceded in death by his uncle, Ryan Baker.

He is survived by his loving family, including his mother, Michelle (Cade Kessler) Baker, his father, Dennis (Tricia) Hopkins Jr., his siblings: Hunter M. Hopkins, Brooke (Steve) Almendarez, Sydney Trimbath, and Tyler Trimbath; as well as his fraternal grandparents, Nancy and Dennis Hopkins Sr., his maternal grandparents, Terry (Terri) Baker and Mary (Mike) Mitro, his uncles: Jeffrey Baker, Kyle Baker, Duke (Tabitha) Hopkins, and Tim Hopkins; his aunt, Bailey Baker; along with his nephews, Mason Trimbath, Ben, Brad, and Sam Almendarez, his cousins: Amanda, Sara, Cole, and Sydney; as well as many great aunts and uncles and extended family, his beloved dog, Vino and many dear friends, including Katelinn Bowser.

Cain was a graduate of Ambridge High School with its Class of 2016, where he proudly participated in both the soccer and wrestling programs. Following graduation, he pursued a career as a union carpenter with Local Union 432. He loved carpentry and was an incredibly hard worker. He often helped friends and family members with various projects. He was also a wonderful uncle.  His nephews adored him.  Wherever Cain was, they wanted to be.

He was an avid Pittsburgh Steelers fan who loved nothing more than going to the games, home or away. He enjoyed the outdoors, but his passion was golf. He loved spending time golfing, especially alongside his brother, Hunter, his father, pap and friends or anyone else who wanted to join him, even someone he just met on the course.

If you met him, you remembered him. He had a way a lighting up every room he walked into. He was the life of the party, even when there wasn’t party, always making sure everyone around him was having a good time too.  He had an endless supply of jokes, whether they were corny or dad jokes that made everyone laugh and groan at the same time.

He cherished the time spent with family and friends and will be remembered by those who knew and loved him. He was a true and loyal friend, a loving son and brother.

He will be deeply missed, and those who knew him will keep his jokes, his laugh and his love of a good time with them always.

In accordance with Cain’s wishes, all services will be private.

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

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made in Cain’s memory to Movember by typing in the following website.

https://us.movember.com/donate/details?memberId=97#amount

Thomas A. Sofranko (1950-2026)

Thomas A. Sofranko, 76, of Chippewa Township, passed away peacefully in the early morning hours of Monday, November 9th, 2026, at AHN Beaver – Heritage Valley.

He was born in Sewickley on January 26th, 1950, a son of the late Joseph and Evelyn (Dudro) Sofranko.

Thomas was a proud veteran of the United States Air National Guard and was a member of St. Monica Church of St. Augustine Parish. He retired from Ambridge Area School District after serving many years as a math teacher. In his free time, he enjoyed golfing, listening to music, watching sports on TV, and playing poker with his friends. Most importantly, he was a devoted family man and cherished every moment he spent with his grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Donna (Harasin) Sofranko.

He is survived by his loving daughters, Dori (Daniel) Sayson and Colleen (Jonathan) Shatlock, his grandchildren, Zach, Levi, and Aurora, his siblings, Joe (Caroline) Sofranko, Greg (Barb) Sofranko, and Marie (John) Glomb, as well as his nieces, nephews, and friends.

Friends will be received on Saturday, November 14th from 1-3 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 military honors will be rendered at the funeral home at 3 P.M. followed by a blessing service.

To send flowers with our preferred florist or plant a memorial tree, please visit the flower store of the Gabauer Family Funeral Homes & Cremation Services by clicking here.

Donald E. Schlotter (1934-2026)

Donald E. Schlotter, 92, of Beaver Falls, passed away on November 6th, 2026, at Cambridge Village.

He was born in Beaver Falls on January 8th, 1934, a son of the late George and Anna Schlotter.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Nancy Schlotter, his son, Kevin Schlotter, his brother, George Schlotter.

He is survived by children, Brian (Pauline) Schlotter, Eric Schlotter and Donann (Tim) Hooley and his grandchildren: Zach and Katelyn Schlotter, Austin, Justin, Jenna and Lexi Hooley.

Donald graduated from Beaver Falls High School in 1953. He was a proud veteran of U.S. Army having served from July 1954 to July 1956. He worked as a Drill Press Operator at Westinghouse for over 30 years prior to retirement. He enjoyed gardening, puzzles, drawing, being outside and taking walks.

There will be a visitation on Thursday, November 12th from 10 a.m.-11:30 a.m. at Corless-Kunselman Funeral Services, LLC, 3801 4th Avenue, Beaver Falls, who was in charge of his arrangements.

A funeral Mass will also occur on Thursday, November 12th at 12 noon at St. Monica Church, 116 Thorndale Drive, Beaver Falls.

Interment will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery, 2927 Clayton Road, Beaver Falls.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Monica’s Church, 116 Thorndale Drive, Beaver Falls, PA 15010 or to Catholic Charities at ccpgh.org (click here.)

Michael “Mugsy” R. Sullivan, Jr. (1965-2026)

Michael “Mugsy” R. Sullivan, Jr., 61, passed away on October 5th, 2026 in his home.
He was born on March 13th, 1965, the son of the late Michael and Mary (Ritz) Sullivan, Sr.
He is survived by his longtime partner, Laurie Cercone, and his sons, Gavin, Jesse, and Shane, who will all hold his memory forever.
Michael was known for his vibrant spirit and passion for enjoying life to the fullest.
In accordance with Michael’s request, there will be no visitation.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the Anthony Mastrofrancesco Funeral Home, Inc., 2026 McMinn Street, Aliquippa.

To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Michael “Mugsy” R. Sullivan Jr., please visit the Sympathy Store of the Anthony Mastrofrancesco Funeral Home, Inc. by clicking here.

Edward Franklin Futato (1933-2026)

Edward Franklin Futato, 93, of Hilltop Retirement Community in Johnson City, New York, formerly of Patterson and North Sewickley Township, passed away peacefully on October 10th, 2026, at Elizabeth Church Manor in Binghamton, New York. He was born in New Brighton on May 24th, 1933, in New Brighton, the son of the late John Sr. and Anna (Kadlecz) Futato.

Edward graduated from the New Brighton High School. Shortly after graduation, he was drafted into the US Navy. He dedicated his career to the New Brighton Post Office, where his friendly demeanor and commitment to service made him a cherished postal worker. He was a member of the Blue Lodge in New Brighton and was a 32nd Degree Mason. He was a life-long member of the First Baptist Church in New Brighton. He was active in the Workers for Christ class and served as a deacon and as Chairman of the Board.

He is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Gracann (Thomas) Yard of Endicott, New York, his grandson, Jonathan Yard (Sarah Jane Hammer), Manlius, New York, his great granddaughter, Reiss Elizabeth and numerous nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Hazel Parris Futato, whom he married on June 18th, 1960, his brothers & sisters: Barbara Kloos, John Jr., Grace Gossard, Alexander, Joseph, Steven, Rudolph, Margaret Wells, and James.

A memorial visitation will be held on Saturday, November 14th, at 10 a.m. at First Baptist Church, 315 8th Street, New Brighton, which is where a funeral service will start at 11:30 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the First Baptist Church, 315 8th Street, New Brighton, PA 15066.

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

William F. Wertz (1946-2026)

William F. Wertz, 80, passed away on November 4th, 2026, after a brief illness.

He was born on October 31st, 1946.

William graduated from Aliquippa High School in 1965 and earned a bachelor’s degree in education from Slippery Rock University in 1969. He was a dedicated educator and he was also known as “Ba.” He spent 35 years teaching in the Aliquippa School District before retiring. In retirement, he found great joy following all things sports, a passion that remained a constant source of interest and pleasure throughout his later years. On August 9th, 1969, he married Sandra, his devoted wife of more than 57 years. Together, they built a life rooted in family and quiet steadfastness.

He is survived by his wife, Sandra, his daughter, Keri Lyon (Steve) of South Carolina, his grandchildren: Alexander Wertz (April) of Ohio, Maximillian Wertz-Raupp of South Carolina, Xavier Wertz-Raupp of Pennsylvania, and Vanessa, Victoria, and Evander Lyon of South Carolina, and his great-grandchildren, Veradie and Vincent Wertz of Ohio.

He guided Alexander’s early years, and that connection will always remain.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Alberta and William Wertz, his brothers, Jim and Rege and his grandson, Stephen.

William will be remembered for his steady presence, his love of sports, and the quiet strength he offered his family, and he will be deeply missed.

Friends will be received on Friday, November 6th from 3 p.m. until 7 p.m. at Simpson Funeral & Cremation Services, 1119 Washington Avenue, Monaca, who was in charge of his arrangements, and where prayers will be offered on Saturday, November 7th at 9:30 a.m. followed by a Mass of Christian burial at 10:30 a.m. at St John the Baptist Catholic Church, 1409 Pennsylvania Avenue, Monaca.

Nancy Sue Radcliffe Ash (Passed on October 21st, 2026)

Nancy Sue Radcliffe Ash, 69, passed away on October 21st, 2026, at her residence in Victorville, California.

She was born in Pittsburgh and was raised in Center Township, where she spent her early years before setting out to build a life marked by service, kindness, and grace.

Nancy was a 1975 graduate of Center Area High School, and later in life she returned to school to train as a dialysis clinic technician. She was the beloved wife of Delbert L. Ash, whom she married in 1985. Their marriage was a lasting partnership filled with companionship, love, and shared devotion. In 1985, they made their home in California, where she created a warm and welcoming life centered on family, faith, and the many joys that came from caring for those she loved.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Lester and June Radcliffe, as well as her grandparents, who held a special place in her heart throughout her life. In addition to her husband, she is survived by her son, James Ash, and his wife, Jackie, as well as her cherished granddaughter, Annabelle. She is also survived by her bulldog, Roxie.

She devoted much of her life to ministry and service. She served as a lay pastor for several years in the First Assembly of God Church in Victorville, California, where her faith and compassion touched many lives. In addition to her ministry, she worked for a number of years as a dialysis clinic technician.

Those who knew her will remember her as always dressed immaculately, with her hair and makeup beautifully done, and she carried herself with a natural elegance that reflected her attention to detail and her respect for those around her. Her appearance was only one expression of the grace and dignity she brought to every part of her life.

She also had a deep and abiding love for animals. On her California property, she cared for a variety of animals, including horses, pot belly pigs, and dogs, among others. She found great happiness in their company and took special joy in the life she shared with them.

Nancy will be remembered as a devoted wife, loving mother, proud grandmother, faithful servant, and compassionate friend. Her life was one of faith, family, and quiet devotion.

Friends will be received on Friday, November 6th from 11 a.m. until the time of service at 1 p.m. at the Simpson Funeral and Cremation Services, 1119 Washington Avenue, Monaca, who was in charge of her arrangements.

She will be laid to rest following the service beside her late parents in Sylvania Hills Memorial Park, 273 PA-68, Rochester.