Category: Obituaries

Hierodeacon Joseph Wirag (1956-2026)

Hierodeacon Joseph Wirag, 69, of Ambridge, passed away unexpectedly on May 21st, 2026.

He was born on August 26th, 1956. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Geri Szabo. He is survived by his best friend of 40 years, Father Frank Mitolo, his nephews, Jeff (Kim) Szabo, and Gary Szabo, all of Pittsburgh, and many friends.

Hierodeacon Joseph was a member of St. Peter and Paul Ukrainian Catholic Church in Ambridge. He joined the community of Brothers of the Holy Spirit when he joined the Ukrainian Catholic Rite and was designated a Heirodeacon in 2014.

Friends will be received on Tuesday, May 26th from 3-6 p.m. in the Schwerha-Noll Funeral Home, 629 Midland Avenue, Midland, who was in charge of his arrangements. Hierodeacon Joseph will lay in state on Wednesday, May 27th from 11 a.m. until the time of service at 1 p.m. at the St. Peter and Paul Ukrainian Catholic Church, 404 6th Street, Ambridge.

Interment to follow in Beaver Cemetery, Buffalo Street, Beaver.

Shirley A. Spaniel (1943-2026)

Shirley A. Spaniel, 82, of Ellwood City, passed away peacefully on May 22nd, 2026, at Allegheny General Hospital, Pittsburgh.

She was born in Ellwood City on December 26th, 1943, the daughter of the late Louis and Norma (French) Shinsky. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a son-in-law, Darryl Eimer and a brother, Donald Shinsky. She is survived by her daughters, Lori Eimer and Lisa (Christian) Scherer, her grandchildren: Dr. Robert Scherer, Nicole Scherer, Michael Scherer, and Sydney Scherer; as well as her brother, Ray (Margie) Shinsky, and her nieces, nephews, and friends.

Shirley was a graduate of the Community College of Beaver County and went on to work as a Registered Nurse. She was extremely proud of her work as a registered nurse and retired with over 30 years of service from Ellwood City Hospital. She was part of the Nurses Study at the University of Michigan and took great pride in knowing her contributions to the study may help others. In her free time, she enjoyed trips to the casino, playing bingo, and lounging with her dogs.

Shirley’s wishes for cremation will be honored and no services are being planned, in accordance with her wishes.

The family wishes to extend a heart-felt “Thank You” to the LVAD Team at AGH, especially Dr. Hadi, Dr. Raina, Patty, and Erin for their care and support over the years.

Memorial contributions, if desired, may be directed to the Beaver County Humane Society, 3394 Brodhead Road, Aliquippa, PA 15001.

The GABAUER-LUTTON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, INC., 117 Blackhawk Road, Beaver Falls, was honored to care for Shirley’s family during this time and was the funeral home that was in charge of her arrangements.

Carole Rita Semonik (1942-2026)

Carole Rita Semonik, 84, of Harmony Township, passed away on May 23rd, 2026, at Sewickley Valley Hospital, following a courageous three-month battle with MDS, with her loving family by her bedside. She was born in Ambridge on May 21st, 1942, the second daughter of the late William Stanley and Elizabeth “Betty” (Knorr) Antkiewicz. In addition to her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by her oldest brother, Leroy J. “Lee” Antkiewicz. She married John “Puka” Semonik in 1972, and together they shared 31 years of marriage and raised two children, Paul Andrew Semonik (Johanna Semonik) and James Edward Semonik (Emily Kirkpatrick). In addition to her children, she is also survived by her two grandsons, Zachary Thomas and John Nicholas Semonik, a sister, Ruth Ann Nardo (Daniel), her brothers, William Antkiewicz (Kathy) and Ronald Antkiewicz (Mary Ellen), a sister-in-law, Patricia Yeager (John), a brother-in-law, Gerald E. Semonik (Ellen), along with many nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

Carole was a loving wife and mother who enjoyed the simplicity of life. She cherished raising her family, making the world’s most amazing pierogies, doing puzzles with family, fishing at Pymatuning with her brother, William, and caring for her log house — which was her dream come true. She attended St. Veronica’s Catholic High School and was a lifelong member of Good Samaritan Catholic Church in Ambridge. Before the arrival of her sons, she worked as an assistant manager at the Isaly’s Dairy Store in Ambridge.

Friends will be received on Wednesday, May 27th, from 3 P.M. until the time of blessing service at 6:30 P.M. at the John Syka Funeral Home, Inc., 833 Kennedy Drive, Ambridge, who was in charge of her arrangements. Internment will take place privately in Economy Cemetery, 1691 Ridge Rd Extension #1601, Ambridge.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Carole, please visit the floral store of the John Syka Funeral Home, Inc. by clicking here.

David Michael Kerns (1955-2026)

David Michael Kerns, 72, of Monaca, formerly of Beaver, passed away unexpectedly in his home on May 18th, 2026.

He was born in Sewickley on November 24th, 1955, the son of Annneé Volitich Kerns and the late Ted Kerns. In addition to his mother, he is survived by his beloved wife of 48 years, Pam Kerns, née Nolder, his daughter, Marie (Robert) Knox, his son, Michael (Chad) Kerns, his two grandsons, Logan and Caleb Knox, and his sister Patricia Elder. In addition to his father, he was preceded in death by his father-in-law, Dutch Nolder and his mother-in-law, Teddi Nolder.

David graduated from Hopewell High School in 1974 and The New Castle School of Trade. He worked as a bricklayer at St. Joe Lead for several decades before his retirement. His unparalleled work ethic and humor made him countless friends around the mill. He was a proud and respected member of Steelworkers Local 8183 where he served as Recording Secretary. He was an avid fan of the Pittsburgh Pirates, Steelers, Penguins and Pitt Athletics. He was a natural and gifted baseball player himself who dedicated his time to coaching numerous youth baseball and football teams where he impacted the lives of many across the county.

He is also survived by his dear family, many friends, including his best friend, Sam Landis, and by his very spoiled dog, Ollie.

Friends will be received on Saturday, May 23rd from 1-4 p.m. at SIMPSON FUNERAL & CREMATON SERVICES, 1119 Washington Avenue, Monaca, who was in charge of his arrangements.

Memorial Contributions may be made in his name to The Beaver County Human Society, 3394 Brodhead Rd, Aliquippa, PA 15001.

Robyn L. “Rob” Senior (1967-2026)

Robyn L. Senior, 59, of Aliquippa, affectionately known as “Rob,” passed away on May 14th, 2026, due to a brain aneurysm. She was born on April 14th, 1967.

Robyn graced those she knew every day with her beautiful smile, kind heart, and willingness to help anyone without question. She brought warmth, love, and laughter to those around her and touched the lives of many through her caring spirit and generosity.

Her unexpected passing has left a heartbreaking loss for her family, friends, and all who knew and loved her.

Family and friends will be received for a viewing on Saturday, June 6th, from 2 p.m. until the time of a formal funeral service beginning at 5 p.m. at Alvarez-Hahn Funeral Services and Cremation, LLC, 547 8th Street, Ambridge, who was in charge of her arrangements.

Robyn’s memory will forever live on in the hearts of those whose lives she touched.

Alfred H. Pasco, Jr. (1948-2026)

Alfred H. Pasco, Jr., 77, of Daugherty Township, passed away on May 19th, 2026, with his wife by his side.

He was born in East Liverpool, Ohio on June 18th, 1948, a son of the late Alfred H. and Ada Mary Pasco. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Donald Pasco. He is survived by his beloved wife of 20 years, Betty Ruckert Pasco, his sons, Kevan Pasco and Steve Pasco, his stepson, Ronald (Kristi) Puffinburger, his grandson: Clayton (Lindsey) Puffinburger, Johnathan, RJ and Dougie; as well as his great-grandchildren: Ivan, Carson, Dylan and Addy.

Alfred retired in 2012 as a Senior Stock Tender, more specifcally, a “numbers man” working at Bruce Mansfield. He was an avid golfer and belonged to numerous leagues. He was also an active faithful member of Church of the Living Christ in Bridgewater.

Friends will be received on Friday, May 22nd from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. at Noll Funeral Home Inc., 333 Third Street, Beaver, who was in charge of his arrangements, and where a funeral service will be conducted on Saturday, May 23rd, at 11 a.m. by Alfred’s friend and pastor, David Howells.

Online condolences may be shared at www.nollfuneral.com.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Alfred’s name to Church of the Living Christ for Child Evangelism Fellowship (CEF) at 699 Riverside Drive, Beaver, PA 15009.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Alfred H. Pasco, please visit the flower store of the Noll Funeral Home Inc. by clicking here.

James R. Kairis (1934-2026)

James R. Kairis, 91, of New Brighton, passed away peacefully on May 19th, 2026, at Providence Health and Rehab Center in Beaver Falls.

He was born in New Brighton on November 19th, 1934, a son of the late John Edward and Genevieve (Brzezenski) Kairis. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Beverly Joyce “Bunny” (Petuch) Kairis, whom he married on February 16th, 1957, his daughter, Laura Lee Kairis, his sons, John and Timothy Kairis, his daughter-in-law, Robyn Trumbetic Kairis and his sister, Patricia Kairis Kondraki.

He is survived by his sons, Brandan Kairis and Daniel (Brenda) Kairis, his grandchildren: Rebecca (Ryan) McDaniel, Patrick Kairis and Sheri Hendricks, Noah (Lexi) Kairis, Taylor Kairis, Renee (Michael) Faletto; as well as three great-grandchildren, his sister, Joann Kairis and his brother, Rich Kairis.

James was a veteran of the United States Army. He served during the Korean War. He retired from Hydril after 30 years of dedicated service working as a machinist. Throughout his life, he remained deeply devoted to his faith and his church community. He was a lifelong member of Our Lady of the Valley Parish and St. Cecilia Church in Rochester, where he was a life member of the church choir and the Resurrection Choir as he shared his love of music and worship with generations of parishioners. He loved fishing, collecting coins, woodworking, and firearms. Whether crafting something by hand, casting a line into the water, or sharing stories with family and friends, he valued the moments spent with those he cared about most. Above all, he will be remembered for his kindness, loyalty, faith, and the love he gave so freely to others. He will be deeply missed by all those he loved and by all those who loved him.

In accordance with James’ request, there will be no services. Arrangements have been entrusted to the J&J Spratt Funeral Home, Inc. 1612 Third Avenue, New Brighton.

To order memorial trees in memory of James R. Kairis, please visit the tree store of the J&J Spratt Funeral Home, Inc. by clicking here.

Janet Mikush (1941-2026)

Janet Mikush, 84, passed away on May 18th, 2026.

She was born in Sewickley Hospital on July 30th, 1941, a beloved daughter of the late John and Irene Pirosko. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sisters, Eileen Pirosko and Donna McConnell, her in-laws, Andrew and Helen Mikush, and her brother-in-law, Andrew “Whitey” Mikush.

She is survived by her devoted husband of 62 years, Robert A. Mikush, her sons, Robert (Laura) Mikush and Bryan (Cindy) Mikush, her cherished grandchildren, Ryan Mikush and Amanda Mikush, her sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Dave Carlson and Roberta Sciulli, along with many loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family members.

Janet was a proud graduate of Ambridge Area High School with its Class of 1959. She later dedicated many years working as a secretary for Ambridge Area High School. She was a faithful and devoted member of Good Samaritan Church in Ambridge. She found joy in serving her community, especially while making pierogies at local churches. She also enjoyed playing poker and card games with her card club, bingo, and meeting her friends at McDonalds. Above all, she treasured time spent with her family and especially adored her grandchildren.

Family and friends will be received on Friday, May 22nd from 2-4 P.M. and from 5-8 P.M. at Alvarez-Hahn Funeral Services and Cremation, LLC, 547 8th Street, Ambridge, who was in charge of her arrangements. An additional visitation will take place on Saturday, May 23rd, from 9 A.M. until 11:30 A.M., followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 12 noon at Good Samaritan Church, 725 Glenwood Avenue, Ambridge.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Economy Ambulance Service, 2060 Ridge Rd Extension, Ambridge, PA 15003 or Good Samaritan Church, 725 Glenwood Avenue, Ambridge, PA 15003.

Bruce R. Hammerle (1938-2026)

Bruce R. Hammerle, 87, of Beaver Falls, passed away on May 19th, 2026, at his home. He was born in Beaver Falls on May 20th, 1938, a son of the late Louis J. Hammerle and Pearle J. Leiper Hammerle. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by four brothers and five sisters. He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Rita Biega Hammerle, his son, J. Bruce (Kelly) Hammerle, his daughter, Debra (Dr. Clay) Triplehorn, his grandchildren: Jared (Nicole) Triplehorn, Allison (Micah) Harvey, Dr. Nathan Hammerle and MiKayla (Jake) Lerandeau and his great granddaughter, Ava Grace Triplehorn.

Bruce proudly served in the United States Army before beginning a long and dedicated career with the United States Post Office, where he worked from April 2nd, 1960, until his retirement on January 3rd, 1995. He especially enjoyed delivering mail throughout the College Hill and Morado areas, where he became a familiar and friendly presence to many in the community. Following his retirement, he continued working by delivering airfreight for Skyline Motors from January of 1995 until August of 2002. He also devoted more than 20 years to delivering Meals on Wheels, finding great joy in helping others and visiting residents in local nursing homes. In his later years, he enjoyed spending time on the golf course, a pastime that brought him much happiness. He was a member of the Steffin Hill Presbyterian Church in Beaver Falls, where his mother and father were married. A visitation will be held on Friday, May 22nd, from 11 a.m. until the time of service at 1 p.m. at Corless-Kunselman Funeral Services, LLC, 3801 4th Avenue, Beaver Falls, who was in charge of his arrangements. Private interment will follow at Grandview Cemetery, 139 Norwood Drive, Beaver Falls.

Kathy Coccaro (1954-2026)

Kathy Coccaro, 71, passed away on May 14th, 2026. She was born in Sewickley on September 25th, 1954. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, Larry Alushin. Kathy is survived by her husband, Albert Coccaro, her son, Anthony Coccaro, her daughter, Christina (Chad) Thomas, her grandchildren, Nicholas Thomas, Nate Thomas, and Breanna Thomas (Christopher Cruz), her brother, Walter (Janet) Alushin, her nephew, Cody (Nikki) Alushin, her great nephews, Bowie and Bronson, as well as numerous cousins that love her so much. Last, but not least, she was survived by her beloved dog Juju, who brought her so much love and joy.

Kathy was a graduate of Ambridge High School and lived her entire life in the area. She worked throughout the years as a receptionist in various doctor’s offices, helping others, as she aways did. She loved her family and friends so deeply and adored her grandchildren. She always offered love and support to all who knew her. She was a devout Christian. She always had a strong faith and a deep love of God. Throughout her life, her faith is what pulled her through, along with her unwavering sense of humor. The love, kindness, and joy that she brought others will be truly missed.

Prayers will be offered on Tuesday, May 20th at 10:30 A.M. in the John Syka Funeral Home, Inc., 833 Kennedy Drive, Ambridge, who was in charge of her arrangements. A church service will follow at 11 A.M. in Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, 2147 Ridge Road Extension, Ambridge, with Rev. Jill McGregor Officiating. Interment will follow in Economy Cemetery, 1691 Ridge Rd Extension #1601, Ambridge.