Category: Obituaries

Charlene Francis Short Reeder (1946-2026)

Charlene Francis Short Reeder, 79, of Chippewa Township, passed away on April 20th, 2026, at Heritage Valley Beaver Campus. She was born on September 5, 1946, the daughter of the late Charles and Virginia (Logan) Short. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Thomas Craft Reeder and her brother, Lance Short. She is survived by her children, Daniel (Kylee Hostetter) Reeder and Matthew Reeder, her stepchildren, Thomas “TC” Reeder, Roderick “Rod” Reeder, and Amy (Mark) Shaffer, her beloved grandchildren: Peyton, Daniel Jr., Bennett, Elida, Charlie, Kellan, Jake, Max, Lilly, and Kyle; as well as her great-granddaughter, Penelope, her brother, Brad Short and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

Charlene dedicated many of her working years working with the mentally disabled at Verland, a role she took great pride in. Her compassion extended far beyond her profession, as she was deeply committed to helping individuals with mental disabilities. She was a faithful member of the Chippewa United Methodist Church. Above all, she cherished her family. She was devoted to her children, grandchildren, and nieces and nephews. She was a constant, loving presence in all her family’s lives. She will be remembered for her kindness, her strength, and the love she gave so freely to others.

Flowers are welcome and may be sent to the Gabauer-Lutton Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc., 117 Blackhawk Road, Beaver Falls, PA 15010. Memorial contributions may also be made to Charlene’s family to continue the loving support she provided to her children, cash or check donations will be accepted at that funeral home or can be made directly to the family.

Friends will be received for a memorial visitation on Wednesday, April 29th from 5 P.M. until the time of memorial service at 7 P.M. at the Gabauer-Lutton Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc., 117 Blackhawk Road, Beaver Falls, who was in charge of her arrangements.

Edward J. Kozel (1955-2026)

Edward J. Kozel, 70, passed away peacefully on April 22nd, 2026, in the comfort of his home, surrounded by the love of his family. He was born on November 29th, 1955, a son of the late John and Katherine Kozel. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, John “Jack” Kozel. He is survived by his devoted wife of 42 years, Cheryl Kozel, and their two daughters, Lauren (Dan) Baker and Stephanie Kozel. He is survived by his grandchildren, Lucas and Cora Baker, whom he adored, his mother and father-in-law, Julian and Margaret Bobrowski, his two brothers-in-law, John (Lisa) Bobrowski and Michael (Candace) Bobrowski, his very good friend, Mike Pauvlinch, and many loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Edward was a man who found joy in the simple pleasures, spending time at his family camp in Tionesta, hunting and fishing, and rooting for his favorite Pittsburgh sports teams. He was a proud Penn State alumnus who continued to follow their athletic successes with enthusiasm. Above all, his greatest joys came from being with his family and watching his grandchildren, Lucas and Cora grow and flourish. He treasured family vacations, especially the trip to the Grand Canyon and even enjoyed adventures in Las Vegas. He was known to relax with a cigar and had a deep love for music, attending concerts featuring Santana and embracing everything Rock n Roll. His family wishes to extend a heartfelt thank you to Gateway Hospice, especially Dr. Gandhe and Dr. Gehrlein, for their exceptional care and compassion given to Edward. He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered for his kindness, humor, and the lasting impact he had on all who knew him. His legacy of love and devotion will live on in the hearts of his family and friends. He will be forever remembered as a loving husband, father, uncle, cousin and dear friend.
In Lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Huntington’s Disease Society of America at www.hdsa.org by clicking here.
A visitation will take place on Friday, April 24th from 11 a.m. until the time of a blessing service at 1 p.m. in the ANTHONY MASTROFRANCESCO FUNERAL HOME INC., 2026 McMinn Street, Aliquippa, who was in charge of his arrangements. Entombment will immediately follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, 2186 Brodhead Road, Aliquippa. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Edward J. Kozel please visit the Sympathy Store of the Anthony Mastrofrancesco Funeral Home, Inc. by clicking here.

Blaise F. Churney (Passed on April 17th, 2026)

Blaise F. Churney, 87, passed away unexpectedly on April 17th, 2026, at his residence in Monaca. He was born in Aliquippa, a son of the late Maurice and Ann (Radocaj) Churney, who were of Croatian descent. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his former wife, Gloria Churney, his daughter, Patricia Butchki, his son, Mark Churney, his sister and brother-in-law, Bridget (Bruce) Eiselt and his brother-in-law, Fred Rossi. He is survived by his daughter-in-law, Natasha Churney, his son-in-law, John Butchki, two granddaughters, Jessica Butchki-Revier and Carina Churney, his brother, William Churney, Sr., his sister, Maureen (Rodney) Bratich and several nieces and nephews including: Cecelia Baker, Sandra Churney, Collette Churney, Kira Persuitte, Maura Colonias, Raymond Eiselt, Eric Eiselt, and William Churney, Jr. He was also blessed with the friendship of Billy Rains, his best friend, whose companionship meant much to him through the years.

Blaise graduated from Hopewell High School and answered the call to serve his country by joining the United States Air Force. After completing his service, he returned home and built a long career as a steelworker at the Aliquippa works of LTV Steel Corporation. He retired from that work after many years of dedication and was a member of the United Steelworkers of America, Local 1211. He found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He was an avid gardener who took pride in caring for his plants and watching them grow. He also enjoyed golfing and listening to AM talk news radio, interests that gave him comfort and companionship over the years. He especially appreciated spending time at the Beaver Valley senior citizens Center at the Mall, where he enjoyed the company of others and the familiar rhythm of community life.

Private calling hours for Blaise will be observed on Thursday, April 30th from 6:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. at SIMPSON FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES, 1119 Washington Avenue, Monaca, who was in charge of his arrangements. His burial will privately take place at Mt. Olivet Catholic Cemetery, 2186 Brodhead Road, Aliquippa.

In lieu of flowers, the family has suggested memorial contributions be made, if desired to the Disabled American Veterans, 1000 Liberty Avenue, Suite 1606, Pittsburgh, PA 15222.

Regis A. Mullen, Jr. (1953-2026)

Regis A. Mullen Jr., 72, of Moon Township, passed away on April 11th, 2026 in his home. He was born in Rochester on October 23rd, 1953, a son of the late Regis A. & Helen (Fabian) Mullen. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Mary Guiendon and a brother, Paul Mullen. He is survived by his wife of almost 50 years, Beth (Jordan) Mullen, two sons, Regis A. Mullen III of Ohio and Jesse J. Mullen (Misty) of Scott Township and two grandchildren, Jordan & Madison Mullen.

Regis was a 1971 graduate of Quigley Catholic High School in Baden. He attended Robert Morris University where he was a member of Phi Kappa Theta fraternity, and the basketball team. He received a Bachelor’s degree from California University, a Master’s Degree in Guidance and Counseling from Gannon University, a Master’s Degree in Education from The University of Pittsburgh, and a Principalship from Youngstown State University. He was a guidance counselor, athletic director and head basketball coach for many years at Our Lady of the Sacred Heart High School in Coraopolis. He was a principal at Beaver High School, Ambridge Area School District, Avonworth Elementary School, and The Allegheny Intermediate Unit. He was an avid fisherman and boater and enjoyed exploring the many beautiful lakes in the tri-state area, with Stonewall Lake, West Virginia being his favorite. His most cherished accomplishment was becoming a Dad and a PaPa. He was extremely proud of his sons and adored his grandson, JJ, and his granddaughter, Maddie.

He was known for his elaborate storytelling and sense of humor. He cared deeply about everyone he met, could make friends anywhere, and had significant impacts in everyone’s life that he encountered.

Services for Regis were private. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Huntsman Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Moon Township, 1522 Coraopolis Heights Road, Coraopolis.

J. Randall (Randy) Rovesti (1951-2026)

J. Randall (Randy) Rovesti, 74, of Chippewa Township, formerly of North Huntingdon, passed away on April 21st, 2026, leaving behind a legacy defined by dedication, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to his family and community.

He was born on December 11th, 1951, a son of the late John Randall and Wanda (Painter) Rovesti. He is survived by his beloved wife of 47 years, Debbie, his children, Randy (Jessica) Rovesti of North Huntingdon, Kelly (Mike) Arbogast of Chippewa Township, and Chelsey (fiancé Nate McCartney) of Glenshaw, his cherished grandchildren: Gianna and Santino Rovesti, Allie, Ryan, and Isaac Arbogast; as well as his siblings, Lori (Joe) Gulaskey and Ken Rovesti, his nieces, nephews, and friends. His family was his pride and joy, and he carried the same devotion into every aspect of his life.

J. Randall lived a life rooted in service to his family, his students, his athletes, and the generations he inspired. He graduated from Gateway High School and his connection to his alma mater never faded. He was a standout multi-sport student athlete who helped lay the foundation for a tradition of excellence that would endure for decades. He was a key member of Gateway’s 1969 championship football team, which was the program’s first, and he earned recognition as an All-Conference player and later as the Dapper Dan High School Athlete of the Year. Whether on the football field, the wrestling mat, or the baseball diamond, he demonstrated not only athletic talent but also grit, leadership, and an unselfish team-first mindset. His success continued at the College of William and Mary, where he played collegiate football under the legendary coach, Lou Holtz. He was a co-captain and All-Conference player who exemplified discipline and determination. After earning his degree, he transitioned seamlessly into teaching and coaching, beginning a lifelong career dedicated to mentoring students and athletes. His football coaching journey took him across the country, from William and Mary to Brigham Young University and North Carolina State, before ultimately bringing him back home to Western Pennsylvania. It was there that he made his most lasting impact. He was also an assistant football coach at Plum High School, where he contributed to a championship team, and as the head football coach at Norwin High School, he led the program to new heights, including its first playoff appearance. His excellence on the sidelines earned him multiple Coach of the Year honors, but those who knew him understood that his true success was measured not in wins, but in the lives he shaped. Beyond the field, he remained a dedicated employee of the Norwin School District as a teacher, assistant principal, and athletic director, continuing to serve students and his community. In 1996, he was recognized as the Norwin Star Citizen of the Year, which is an honor that reflected the respect and admiration he earned through decades of service. He believed deeply in teamwork, humility, and perseverance. He often reflected on his time at Gateway as the foundation for his life, crediting his teachers, coaches, teammates, and experiences for shaping his values. He carried those lessons forward, instilling them in not only his own children, but every student and athlete he encountered. He will be remembered as a devoted husband, a proud father and grandfather, a respected educator and coach, and a man who never forgot where he came from. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he influenced, the community he strengthened, and the family he loved so deeply.

Services will be private. Arrangements have been entrusted to the branch of Gabauer Funeral Homes.

J. Randall’s family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the many practitioners and nurses who cared for him with compassion and dedication including, but not limited to, Dr. David Rice, Dr. Matt Spector, Dr. Dan Zandberg, Leah Rosenblum, CRNP, Dr. Chris Wilke, Jody Alexander, CRNP, Karen Siege, PA-C, Dr. Kamran Khan, Dr. Nenad Bugarija, Dr. Christopher Wentz and all the staff at UPMC Passavant-McCandless.

In lieu of flowers or donations, the family will be establishing a scholarship fund at Norwin School District in J. Randall’s honor at a future time.

Leonard A. Altman, Sr. (1960-2026)

Leonard A. Altman, Sr., 65 of High Point, North Carolina, passed away at home on April 19th, 2026 due to complications from diabetes. He was born in Rochester on December 21st, 1960, a son of the late Cleason “Snuffy” and Ann Altman. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Spoto Altman, three brothers, his twin, Leland “Sach” Altman, Floyd “Dutch” Altman and Cleason Altman, Jr., four sisters and two brothers-in-law: Shirley Giuliani, Delorse “Dee” Hostetter, Janice “Jan” Blue and Nancy and James “Danny” River and Vincent Spoto; as well as his granddaughter, Nikki Altman and his father-in-law and mother-in-law, James and Marge Spoto. He is survived by three sons and daughters-in-law, Lenny Jr. (Ambar), Tom (Lauren) and CJ (Shilah), four daughters, Jennifer Altman, Lyn Ann Altman, Colleen (Nick) Jimenez and Cynthia Young, a sister and three brothers-in-law, Renae (Charles) Crider, Dave Hostetter and Jimmy Spoto, three sisters-in-law, Mary Hogue Altman, Bonnie Stelter Altman, Trisha Spoto, twenty one grandchildren, several nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.

Leonard attended Rochester High School and was a member of the Class of 1979. He was a U.S. Marine Veteran who retired from working at Honda Aircraft Company.

In accordance with Leonard’s wishes, he will be cremated. No services are being held for him. Arrangements have been entrusted to the William Murphy Funeral Home, Inc., 349 Adams Street, Rochester.

Joseph Paul Stefanosky (1961-2026)

Joseph Paul Stefanosky, 64, of Clarion, passed away on April 19th, 2026, at his home. He was born in New Brighton on April 30th, 1961, a son of Eileen F. McPherson Stefanosky and the late John A. Stefanosky. In addition to his father, he was preceded in death by his wife, Patricia G. Stefanosky, one grandson, Austin C. Hancock, two brothers, John and Scott Stefanosky, one great-nephew, Devin Stefanosky, a niece, Tanya Stefanosky, and several aunts and uncles. He is survived by one daughter, Elyse I. Stefanosky, of Beaver Falls, two grandchildren, Ethan and Owen Stefanosky, and a special friend whom he also considered his daughter, Holly Dean, of Beaver Falls, as well as several aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews.

Joseph was a retired former owner of J. and T. fleet repair and trucks n’ more in Punta Gorda, Florida, and was a self employed carpenter and previously worked for Bachmans Garage and Kruts Garage.

Friends will be received on Friday, April 24th, from 4-7 p.m., at the William Murphy Funeral Home, Inc. 349 Adams Street, Rochester, who was in charge of his arrangements, and where a service will follow on Saturday, April 25th at 11 a.m.

Inurnment will take place at St. Cecilia’s Cemetery, 761 Allendale Road, New Brighton.

Memorial contributions will be made to UPMC Children’s Hospital, 4401 Penn Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15224.

Nancy L. Theil (1957-2026)

Nancy L. Theil, 68, of Monaca, passed away peacefully in the comfort of her home on April 18th, 2026. She was born on July 8, 1957, a beloved daughter of the late Michael and Ethel (Carpenter) Theil Sr. She is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Zackary and Dannielle Theil, two grandchildren, Caliana and Adriana, her siblings, Marcy (John) Harvey, Michael “Dinky” Theil, and Jackie (Dave Zanker) Theil; her niece, Vinessa (Jesse) Boice; and her special friends, Ed and Anne Becker.
Nancy was a dedicated bartender for over 30 years at The Midway Bar, earning the respect and affection of countless patrons. After the Midway closed, she continued her craft at Brewski’s in Center Township, where her warm personality and skill behind the bar shone just as brightly. She also delighted friends and family with her homemade chocolate-covered treats, especially her signature strawberries, which became a beloved staple at gatherings. She was an avid fan of “Days of Our Lives,” a tradition she began with her aunts as a young girl and cherished throughout her life. In her neighborhood, she was affectionately known as Miss Nancy, the favorite neighbor who handed out popsicles and bubbles to the children, always bringing joy and laughter. Her love for the holidays was unmatched, she was a true Holiday Enthusiast, decorating her home with festive cheer and making every celebration special.
A Celebration of Life will be held for Nancy on Wednesday, July 8th, with further details to be announced.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the Anthony Mastrofrancesco Funeral Home, Inc., 2026 McMinn Street, Aliquippa.
Donations in her memory may be made to Anthony Mastrofrancesco Funeral Home Inc. to assist the family with funeral costs, 2026 McMinn Street, Aliquippa, PA 15001.
To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Nancy L. Theil, please visit the Sympathy Store of the Anthony Mastrofrancesco Funeral Home, Inc. by clicking here.

Lisa Anne (Denny) Trapizona (1965-2026)

Lisa Anne Trapizona (Denny), 61, unexpectedly passed away in her sleep at her home on April 19th, 2026. She was born on January 28th, 1965, and was preceded in death by her parents, William and Bonnie (Wilgruber), and her brother, William Denny Jr. She is survived by her husband, Richard Trapizona, and her three children, Joshua Walker, Marissa Trapizona, and Sarah Trapizona (Shane Welteroth).

Lisa grew up in Hopewell, attending Hopewell School District Schools from kindergarten through senior high. There she made many friends and created lasting memories that she shared years later at several reunions. She attended Carlow Business School and began a long career of business management. She began working for Church and Dwight with partner company Arm and Hammer. She then went on to work for Delmonte Foods and split her time between Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and San Francisco, California. Later in her career she began developing a technological background, developing an app and helping her company win an Emmy. In the latter half of her life, she worked for Highmark helping improve health care systems and supporting all those she worked with. In 1994, she married Richard Trapizona in a small ceremony held in Ross Township. She and Richard had been married for 32 years and together for 39 years. For their honeymoon, they went to Las Vegas, Nevada which became a staple family vacation every year after. She and Richard built their home in Sewickley, where they raised their son and two daughters. She was an active member in the Quaker Valley community where her son and two daughters attended school there, participating in classroom activities and extracurriculars. She was a passionate and strong woman that would lend a helping hand to anyone who needed help. She believed strongly in family values and enjoyed spending time with her kids and hearing all about their days. Lisa was a devoted Catholic practicing at St. James Church in Sewickley. She recently helped her future son-in-law become a member of the church. She taught Sunday school for over twenty years and helped anywhere she could. She loved the community it built and enjoyed the congregation being like a family.

According to her wishes, Lisa wanted to be cremated. A Memorial visitation will take place on Friday, April 24th from 3-7 P.M. in the John Syka Funeral Home, Inc., 833 Kennedy Drive, Ambridge, who was in charge of her arrangements. Family and friends will then meet on Saturday, April 25th at 10:30 A.M. in the St. James Church-Divine, 200 Walnut Street, Sewickley, for a Mass of Christian Burial. Interment will follow in the Mt. Olivet Catholic Cemetery, 2186 Brodhead Road, Aliquippa.

Lisa will be remembered for her kindness, creativity, and passion for family and friends.

Henry F. “Hank” Podbielski (1943-2026)

Henry F. “Hank” Podbielski, 82, also known as Mr. Pod, passed away on April 15th, 2026. He was born on July 5th, 1943, a son of the late Henry and Henrietta Podbielski. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 47 years, Barbara, a brother, David, his brothers-in-law, Jeff Marsico, Gary Stanley, Jeff Stanley and his nephews, Joshua and Logan Podbielski. He is survived by his sons, Terry Podbielski (Kaitlyn) of New Brighton, Chris at home and Michael, of Beaver Falls, his grandchildren, Addison and Tallen, his two sisters, Barb (Doug) Dunlap of Ohioville and Christine Marsico of Moon Township, a brother,  Tom (Sue) of West Palm Beach, Florida, his sisters-in-law: Kay Podbielski, Kay (Phil) Ziska, Brenda Stanley, Louie Stanley; as well as many nieces and nephews.

Henry was a graduate of Beaver Falls High School Class of 1961 and a 1965 Graduate of Geneva College where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Speech and Communication. After various jobs in the community, he decided to enter the teaching profession. In the fall of 1968, he was hired by the Beaver Local School District of Lisbon, Ohio. He taught English, Speech and Theatre Arts. During his career, he directed over 30 musicals and 27 straight dramatic plays. After retiring from a 30 year career at Beaver Local, he came back to Pennsylvania to work in Freedom School District as a job coach. He worked with students who were having trouble in the classroom and in life. For those students who were employed, he had to help them learn their job skills and have the employer do an evaluation on the student’s job performance. At this point, Henry retired and decided to enjoy life. Henry was an avid Beaver Falls Tiger football and basketball fan. He was also a Penn State football season ticket holder. He enjoyed many trips to Happy Valley as well as visiting many away and Bowl games in the United States. This obituary would not be complete without one last word from Henry: “We are Penn State!”

Friends will be received on Monday, April 27th from 2-4 P.M. and 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 departing prayers will be offered on Tuesday, April 28th at 9:30 A.M. followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 A.M. at St. Monica Church, 116 Thorndale Drive, Beaver Falls. Fr. Kim Schreck will serve as celebrant.