Martin Gorecki (1977-2026)

Martin Gorecki, 48, passed away unexpectedly on February 23, 2026, in Cranberry Township, Pennsylvania.

He was born on August 8th, 1977, in Trzebnica, Poland and he immigrated to the United States with his parents in 1982, settling in Ambridge, where he built his life but remained deeply proud of his Polish heritage.

In 1995, Martin enlisted in the United States Army, where he served as a turret mechanic with the U.S. 3rd Infantry Division at Fort Stewart, Georgia. He completed multiple tours, including Seoul, Korea; Kuwait; and “Operation Desert Thunder” in Iraq. Martin took great pride in serving his country.

He continued that same dedication in civilian life, spending many years as a mechanical superintendent, traveling the country—one of his projects being New York City’s subway system. This reflected his mechanical expertise and strong work ethic.

Martin was once married to Stacy Gorecki, and together they shared his only son, Austin Gorecki. He was also a stepfather to Alyssa Gorecki. He was preceded in death by his father, Henry Gorecki. He is survived by his mother, Elizabeth Gorecki; his brother, David Gorecki (Tammy), and their daughter, Isabella; and his sister, Joanna Gauthier (Javier), and their daughters, Amaiya, Macie, Kayla, and Jena. Martin was the firstborn and the deeply cherished love of his late paternal Babcia, Wanda Górecka; late Pra-Babcia, Helena Szczukiewicz and late maternal Babcia, Teresa Bronowicka. He is also survived by many uncles, aunts, and cousins living in Poland, who hold him close in their hearts across the distance.

Martin was known for his ability to make people laugh and for the humor he carried into every room. He loved his friends and held some especially close over the years. He could be stubborn at times—a family trait—but those who knew him best understood that beneath that tough exterior was a good heart. His color was always dark blue, a shade that reflected his nature and quiet strength.

Martin, a United States veteran, was loyal to those he served beside. He shared a close bond with his best friend, Chad Hayward, and Chad’s family meant a great deal to him. Martin was also known for his black Cavalier, which all of his friends from the Ambridge Class of 1995 remember fondly.

A visitation for family and friends will be held on Wednesday, March 4th from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Alvarez-Hahn Funeral Services and Cremation, LLC, 547 8th Street, Ambridge, who was in charge of his arrangements, and where a blessing service will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Thursday, March 5th at the funeral home followed by an Honorable Veterans Burial at 1 p.m. at the National Cemetery of the Alleghenies, 1158 Morgan Road, Bridgeville.

The family asks in lieu of flowers memorial contributions be sent to the Wounded Warrior Project at woundedwarrierproject.org.

Shirley A. Weber (1938-2026)

Shirley A. Weber, 87, of Center Township, passed peacefully at her residence on February 22nd, 2026, while surrounded by her loving family. She was born in Beaver Falls on August 5th, 1938, the daughter of the late Elmer and Florence Schuler (Yoho), she graduated from Beaver Falls High School in 1956. She married her soulmate and love of her life, William (Bill) Weber, Jr., in April of 1959. Shirley and Bill were blessed with their beloved children, William and Annette. She was preceded in death by her husband, William (Bill) Weber, Jr., and her great-grandson, Jacob Michael Thompson.​ She is survived by her children, William C. Weber (Maureen) of Monaca and daughter, Annette L. Thompson (Michael) of Rochester, New York, three grandchildren, Annette F. Corl (John) of Moon Township, Caleb Benjamin Thompson (Ellizay) of Rochester, New York and Matthew Charles Thompson of Rochester, New York, three great grandchildren, Sean Robert Corl, Miles Jacob Thompson and Mason Daniel Thompson and several nieces and nephews. In addition to her family, she is survived by her dear friend, Lois Hickey, who with her late husband, Richard, she and Bill shared many adventures. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend to so many, she filled our lives with loving warmth and kindness while showing her faith in her daily walk.

Shirley earned her Registered Nursing diploma from Jameson School of Nursing in 1959 and was an active member of the Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society, the Lambda Tau Chapter. Always seeking professional growth throughout her career, she completed numerous professional certificates and continued her education to earn her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Slippery Rock University in 1988. She retired from the Beaver Medical Center in 2000 after over 30 years in nursing. She lovingly served her community in many ways.  Throughout her lifetime, she provided education on many subjects, including the child abuse prevention program Welcome Baby, childcare skills to new parents, literacy, and was a co-leader for the Girl Scouts Explorer Nurse patch. Outside of her teaching, she also provided aid by serving as the friendly community medical expert, often providing public immunizations, health screening, and other support services. She will always be remembered as a woman of unconditional love, great kindness, and unwavering compassion for everyone. She was a woman of God who was a lifelong member of Homewood United Methodist Church, where she met her husband. She served the church in many capacities over the years. These included playing piano for the church starting at 12 years old, serving as the church treasurer, and membership secretary. Besides serving her God, she had many interests. As a Penn State Master Gardener, she thoroughly enjoyed gardening. She also enjoyed needlework, embroidery, sewing, knitting, reading, camping, painting, bible study, bird watching, cooking, baking, and traveling. Together, she and William traveled to all 50 states, including a four-month trip to Alaska, fulfilling their lifelong dream to adventure across Alaska. She loved to fill the house with the wonderful smells of amazing cookies and pies throughout the holidays. She greatly enjoyed her weekly Beaver Valley Writers Guild meetings with her friends and writing her published stories.

Friends and family will be received on Thursday, February 26th from 2-8 p.m. at SIMPSON FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES, 1119 Washington Avenue, Monaca, who was in charge of her arrangements, and where funeral services will be held on Friday, February 27th at 10 a.m. Interment will follow at Sylvania Hills Memorial Park, 273 PA-68, Rochester.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Homewood United Methodist Church or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. To share online condolences, please visit www.simpsonfuneralhome.com.

“The greatest thing God ever gave me was a heart that loved people.” – Shirley Weber

Kathleen Diamond Girting (1945-2026)

Kathleen Diamond Girting, 80, of Midland, passed away on February 23rd, 2026 at her home surrounded by her family. She was born on March 3, 1945, a daughter of the late Roscoe and Mahala Dillion Diamond. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, John H. Girting, her daughter, Darcey J. Adkins, her grandson, Kai Chandler, as well as her siblings: Wilma Jean Miglore, Polly Mae Wahl, Clayton Diamond, Jim “Dude” Diamond, and Melvin Diamond. She is survived  by  her cherished family, including her son and daughter-in-law, Stephen J. and Michelle Girting of South Beaver Township, daughters and son-in-law, Haley L. and Quin Logan of Hemet, California and Johnna S. Girting Smith and her companion, Mike Patrisian of Calcutta, Ohio, 14 grandchildren, 3 great grandchildren, sister and brother-in-law, Florine and Tony McLean of Vero Beach, Florida, as well as her sisters and brothers-in-law including: Kathy “Sissie” Epley, Midland, Carol and Paul DiGiacomo, Ohioville, Terri and Sam Vojnovich, Ohioville, Ron “Sonny” Girting, Industry, and Joseph Girting and his companion, Sara Davidson of Charlotte, North Carolina, as well as so many loved nieces and nephews, and cherished family friends. The family would also like to thank the hospice care provided by Tammi and the staff from Pinnacle for their outstanding care and compassion.

Kathleen graduated from Western Beaver High School and she was involved in the Women’s Auxiliary at the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 8168 and American Legion Post 481. She loved spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren.

Friends will be received on Friday, February 27th from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the Schwerha-Noll Funeral Home,  629 Midland Avenue, Midland, who was in charge of her arrangements, and where a Celebration of Life service will be held on Saturday, February 28th at 11:00 a.m.

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

Paul S. Trojan (1947-2026)

Paul S. Trojan, 79, of Economy, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on February 23rd, 2026, at Concordia at Villa St. Joseph Personal Care.

He was born in Karlovy Vary, Czechoslovakia on January 24th, 1947, the son of the late Gregory and Lillian Trojan. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Cathy, and his infant twin sons, Paul & Michael in 1985.

He is survived by his daughters, Mary (Brian) Empson, Monica (Josh) Brunner and Paula (Bryan) Green, grandchildren: Alex, Vincent, Amelia, and Emery; along with his favorite grand-dog, Bentley, as well as numerous extended family members and friends.

Paul worked and retired from many years of service from St. Paul’s Travelers insurance Agency as a Senior Loss Control Risk Consultant. He was a devout Catholic, and was a long time member of Our Lady of Peace Church in Conway. In his free time, he enjoyed golfing, his daughters’ sporting events, and grilling Sunday dinners. He and his parents immigrated to the USA when he was 2 years old and settled in Cleveland, Ohio. He attended St. Edwards High School and Cleveland State University. He continued to follow St. Edwards’ sports teams throughout his life. He met his wife, Cathy, while working in Cleveland where he was a long time Cleveland sports fan. After having his daughters, he settled in the Pittsburgh area and converted to a Pittsburgh sports fan, cheering on the Steelers, Penguins, and Pirates. He enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his daughters and grandkids. He selflessly devoted himself as a caretaker to his family ensuring all their needs were met.

Friends will be received on Thursday, February 26th from 5-8 P.M. in the GABAUER-TODD FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES (Branch), 340 Third Street, Beaver, who was in charge of his arrangements, and where prayers will be offered on Friday, February 27th at 10 A.M. followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 A.M. at Saints Peter and Paul Roman Catholic Church, 200 Third Street, Beaver, with Fr. Howard Campbell as celebrant.

Interment will follow in Oak Grove Cemetery, 1101 9th Street Extension, Freedom.

The family would like to thank the staff at Concordia of Cranberry, Concordia at Villa St. Joseph Personal Care, and Good Samaritan Hospice for the care they have provided over the years.

John Bundy (1944-2026)

John Bundy, 81, of Moon Township, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away on February 22nd, 2026.

He was born in Sewickley on October 29th, 1944, a son of the late John and Elizabeth M. (Almacy) Bundy. He was one of seven children. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by four brothers-in-law: John Walker, Clarence McKay, Charles Wendt, and William Minch. He is survived by his beloved wife, Janet (Todd) Bundy, three daughters, Shawna Tiu (James) of Oakdale, Michelle Marino (Curt) of Moon Township and Stacey Barcia (Tony) of Wexford, six grandchildren: Curtis Marino (Emily), Anthony Musi (Mary), Taylor Marino, Logan Barcia (Maria), Brooke Barcia (fiancé, Camden), and Tyler Barcia; as well as two great-grandchildren, Franco and Lena Musi and six siblings: Patricia Walker, Georgia McKay, Susan Bundy, David Bundy (Nancy), Sandra Minch, and Debra Bachman (David).

John spent more than 65 years helping build and operate his family’s baking pan manufacturing company, Premier Pan / USA Pan, contributing to a legacy that spanned generations. His dedication and work ethic were a constant throughout his life. Outside of his professional life, he embraced adventure. He had a passion for boating, loved flying airplanes, and enjoyed traveling, always seeking new experiences and appreciating the freedom they brought him. He often expressed that his greatest accomplishment was his family. He loved them deeply, took great pride in their lives and achievements, and cherished each of them.

Family and friends will be received on Friday, February 27th, from 4–8 P.M. at Huntsman Funeral Home of Moon Township (1522 Coraopolis Heights Road), who was in charge of his arrangements, and where a funeral service will be held on Saturday, February 28th at 9:30 A.M.

Barbara Jean (Hilberg) Mineard (1950-2026)

Barbara Jean (Hilberg) Mineard, 75, passed away on February 23rd, 2026, at Heritage Valley Beaver after a lengthy battle of dementia and diabetes. She was born on July 30th, 1950, a daughter of the late Robert and Jean (Smith) Hilberg. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, Bob Hilberg.

She is survived by her husband of 52 years, Richard “Pete” Mineard and her two sons, Christopher (Heather) Mineard of Beaver Falls and Bryan (Cari) Mineard of Twinsburg, Ohio, her sister, Bonny (John) Burlett, her brother, William Hilberg, her five grandchildren, Brittany, Ashley (Zac) Tinyo, Gregory, Brynn, and Brody Mineard; as well as her two great-grandchildren, Ryland and Copeland Jackson.

Barbara graduated from New Brighton High School in 1968 and Indiana University of Pennsylvania in 1972. She was a teacher at St. Philomena School in Beaver Falls.

Friends and family will be received on Saturday, February 28th, from 2 p.m. until the time of a Blessing Service at 6:30 p.m. at the J&J Spratt Funeral Home Inc., 1612 3rd Avenue, New Brighton, who was in charge of her arrangements. Father Kim Schreck will officiate the service.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Barbara Jean (Hilberg) Mineard, please visit the flower store of the J&J Spratt Funeral Home, Inc. by clicking here.

Rita Ann (Nunzir) Hanshe (Passed on February 21st, 2026)

Rita Ann (Nunzir) Hanshe, 91, of Center Township, passed away peacefully on February 21st, 2026, at Heritage Valley Beaver.

She was born and raised in Monaca and was a proud graduate of Monaca High School, class of 1952, Rita’s pursuit of knowledge led her to further her education at Garfield Business School but chose to dedicate herself to her family as a homemaker. Her heart found its match in Ronald Hanshe, whom she first met in the first grade. Fate would have them cross paths again as adults when they both worked at a paint manufacturing factory in Rochester. Their love story was culminated in a beautiful marriage on May 5th, 1956. Together, they built a life filled with joy and cherished moments until Ronald’s passing on September 24th, 2013.

She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Anthony and Minnie Nunzir, her dear husband, Ronald, and her sister, Nan Lamberto. Her legacy continues through her four children: Richard Hanshe of Colorado, Randy Hanshe of Beaver, Ronald Hanshe and daughter-in-law Nina Stala of Center Township, and Rhonda Hanshe of Colorado.

Rita was a member of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Monaca and served her community as an Inspector of Elections for Center Township, which was a role she held for many years. Her love of animals was well-known, particularly her affection for her cats with Grace and George as her companions.

Friends will be received on Wednesday, February 25th from 3-6 p.m. at SIMPSON FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES, 1119 Washington Avenue, Monaca, who was in charge of her arrangements, and where a blessing service will be held on Thursday, February 26th at 10 a.m. Interment will follow beside her late husband in the parish cemetery.

The family has suggested memorial contributions be made, if desired to St Jude Children’s Hospital or the Beaver County Humane Society, 3394 Brodhead Road, Aliquippa, PA 15001.

To share online condolences, please visit www.simpsonfuneralhome.com.

Sherry Lynn Whelpley (1948-2026)

Sherry Lynn Whelpley, 77, of Chippewa Township, passed away on February 22nd, 2026, at Concordia at Villa St. Joseph in Baden. She was born in Sisterville, West Virginina on August 7th, 1948, in Sistersville, West Virginia, the daughter of the late Gerald and Lillian Shuman Warner.

Sherry graduated from West Virginia University with a degree in Education. She went on to teach junior high science for 4 years in a year-round program in Arlington, Virginia, then moved to Morgantown, West Virginia where she was the 4-H extension agent where she met her husband, Chet. In 1977, they moved to Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania where both sons were born. In 1987, they purchased the former Beaver Co-op, now known as Agway, where her and Chet ran the business together for many years. She was involved in her church as a Deacon and was involved in the youth program and taught Sunday school for several years prior to retirement. She was a part of a bowling league for many years and loved nature and traveling. The ocean was her happy place, but her greatest joy was her grandchildren. She is survived by her husband, Chester “Chet” Whelpley, her children, Chad (Wendy) Whelpley and Curt (Rose) Whelpley, her grandchildren: Isabella, Arianna, Amelia, Colin, Benjamin Whelpley; brothers, Jerry (Marcia) and Bobby (Kim) Warner; as well as her sister-in-law, Lois Dress and many nieces and nephews. There will be a visitation on Thursday, February 26th, from 4-7 p.m. at CUP Evangelical Presbyterian Church, 530 Blackhawk Road, Beaver Falls, where a service will be held on Friday, February 27th at 11 a.m. with Pastor Mark Simonds officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Shine Youth Program at CUP church, https://share.google/2qk11OwS1L8qzLpt2

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

Carol S. McDonald (1931-2026)

Carol S. McDonald, 94, of Bethel Park, passed away peacefully on February 19th, 2026. She was born on December 25th, 1931, the beloved daughter of the late Clyde and Sarah Shellito.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her devoted husband, Louis McDonald. She is survived by a loving family who will cherish her memory including her daughter, Sharon Howard, her grandson, Glen (Nicole Richardson) Howard and her adored great-grandson, Parker.

Carol had a deep love for quilting and was especially gifted musically. She was a faithful and active member of Bethel Presbyterian Church, where she shared her beautiful voice in the church choir for many years. Above all, she was a wonderful and devoted mother whose kindness and warmth touched all who knew her.

Memorial services for Carol will be announced at a later date. Arrangements have been entrusted to Alvarez-Hahn Funeral Services and Cremation, LLC, 547 8th Street, Ambridge.

Patricia A. “Pat” Dusold (1951-2026)

Patricia A. “Pat” Dusold, 74, of Aliquippa, passed away peacefully in her home on February 19, 2026. She was born on April 7th, 1951, a beloved daughter of the late Thomas and Theresa Kovacick. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, David Dusold and her siblings, Nancy Stewart and Tom Kovacick. She is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, Dennis and Judy Dusold, her grandchildren: Kennedy Dusold (Zay Tucker), Austin Dusold (Anna Hartman), and Taylor Dusold,Jennifer (Barry) Messenger, Amanda (Bill) Friedline and Julia Searight; as well as her great grandchildren: Bryson and A.J, Kacey, Christian, Dustin and Tiler, along with her two great-great grandchildren, Scarlett and Sawyer, her sister, Rondele and Donnie Weyand and her sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law: Mary Sue and Tim Fredricks, Robert Dusold, George and Cecilia Dusold, Matt and Debbie Dusold and Becky Dusold. She is also lovingly remembered by numerous nieces and nephews.

Patricia dedicated over a decade to her work as a barista at Coffee Beanery, where her warmth, kindness, and smile brightened the days of both customers and coworkers alike. She took pride in crafting each cup of coffee and cherished the friendships she built throughout her career. She was also a devoted Green Bay Packers fan and was an enthusiastic collector of moose memorabilia whose passions brought joy to her family and friends. Her generosity, humor, and unwavering spirit will be dearly missed by all who knew her. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of her family and friends. Her family extends their heartfelt appreciation to the nurses of Good Samaritan Hospice for the outstanding care and compassion shown to her, with special recognition to Colleen for her extraordinary dedication and kindness.

At Patricia’s request, there will be no services. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Anthony Mastrofranceseco Funeral Home, Inc., 2026 McMinn Street, Aliquippa.

She will be buried with her husband at the National Cemtery of the Alleghenies, 1158 Morgan Road, Bridgeville.