Category: Obituaries

Carol A. Crudden (1951-2026)

Carol A. Crudden, 75, of Zelienople, passed away on March 19th, 2026, at Passavant Community Homes. She was born on February 3rd, 1951, a daughter of the late Clinton and Verna (Brenneman) Marshall.

For many years, Carol worked as a legal secretary in Lawrence County, where her strong work ethic and professionalism left a lasting impression. Outside of her work,  sh e found great happiness in life’s quieter and more personal moments. She shared a wonderful life with her husband, Jim, and together they created many moments through their travels, especially their beloved trips to Florida and Aruba. She also found joy in her time working at Rosalind’s Candy Castle, a place that reflected her sweet spirit and love of connecting with others. Above all, her greatest joy was her family. She adored her grandchildren and treasured every moment with them which became some of the most meaningful chapters of her life. In her younger years, she had an adventurous spirit. She embraced challenges by participating in cross-country skiing and roller blading in the park. During quieter times, she could often be found doing one of her favorite things: reading by the pool, soaking in the sun with a good book in hand. It was in these peaceful moments that she found contentment.

All in all, she will be remembered for her kindness, her love of family, her adventurous spirit, and her ability to find joy in both life’s big journeys and simplest pleasures. She is survived her son, Michael (Bryanne) Crudden, of Center Township, her daughter, Jennifer E. Crudden of New Brighton, her sister, Kathy M. Lee, of Fombell and two grandchildren, Patrick and Rosie.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, James “Jim” Crudden, her brother, Larry Marshall and her nephew, Jonathan David Lee.

Friends and family will be received on Tuesday, March 24th, from 4 p.m. until the time of a blessing service at 6 p.m., at the J&J Spratt Funeral Home, Inc., 1612 3rd Ave, New Brighton,

Private interment will take place at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery, New Brighton.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Carol A Crudden, please visit the flower store of the J&J Spratt Funeral Home, Inc. by clicking here.

Richard “KO” Kozak Sr. (1938-2026)

Richard “KO” Kozak Sr., 87, of Conway, passed away on March 18th, 2026. He was born on September 21st, 1938, a beloved son of the late John and Antoinette Kozak.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 66 years, Sandy Kozak, his sisters, Agnes, Marion, and Joan and his brothers: John, Joe, Ed, Frank, Bill, Tom, and Chuckie. He is survived by his loving children, Kathy (Ron) Coder and Richard (Betsy) Kozak Jr., his sister, Patti (Tom) Watters, his brothers, Bob (Pat) Kozak and Leonard Kozak, his sister in laws, Bong Jae Kozak and Betty Kozak, and many cherished nieces and nephews.

Richard, who fondly known as “KO,”  took great pride in his work as a meat cutter for over 60 years, owning Kozak’s Custom Meats and later serving customers at Giant Eagle in Baden with his signature smile and personalized care, retiring at 80. He loved the outdoors, especially hunting and the special bonds he formed. At 50, he discovered golf and quickly made it a passion, spending countless days at Blackhawk Golf Course refining his game, enjoying fierce competition, and expanding his circle of friends. Though he left the farm he grew up on, it never left him. He found joy in plowing snow for neighbors, tending his garden, and sharing its harvest. Even at 80, he continued to grow, and wrote his book, Sacred Showdown, capturing his life, stories, and wisdom. He was steady, dependable, and quietly impactful—a man people gravitated to, and trusted. A devoted husband of 68 years and a loving father, he led by example with hard work, perseverance, and unwavering love for his family. His faith anchored his life. He was quiet, steady, and lived it out daily through humility, generosity, and how he cared and mentored others. His life was a lesson in how to live well, love deeply, and finish strong.

A visitation will be held on Sunday, March 22nd, from 1–5 P.M. at Alvarez-Hahn Funeral Services and Cremation, LLC, 547 8th Street, Ambridge, who was in charge of his arrangements, and where a Celebration of Life and Blessing Service will take place on Monday, March 23rd, at 10 A.M. Burial will be private.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff and friends at Crossroads Beaver Creek, Alexis and Leslie (“CR Angels”), Laura Blackston, and his neighbors on Cottage Avenue for their love and care.

Katherine (Turconi) Mannarino (1928-2026)

Katherine (Turconi) Mannarino, 98, who was born on January 19th, 1928, passed away on March 19th, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family at Franciscan Manor in Beaver Falls, leaving behind a legacy of devotion, kindness, and faith.

She shared an extraordinary 74 years of marriage with her loving husband, Anthony Mannarino, building a life centered on family, faith, and community. Together they raised their children, Ronald (Sally), John (Laura), Lisa (Scott) Pulleo, and Patrick (Tracey) who were the pride and joy of her life. Her family grew to include nine grandchildren who knew her as Noni: Katie (Aaron) Jones, Jared Mannarino, Chelci (James) Dell, Anthony (Samantha) Pulleo, Matthew Pulleo, Dr. Mitchell Pulleo, Dominic Mannarino, Jillian Mannarino, Dante Mannarino; as well as and five great-grandchildren, all of whom were blessed by her warmth, wisdom, and unwavering love. She is also survived by her brother, Joe (Patty) Turconi.

She was a daughter of the late James and Antionetta Rimoldi Turconi and in addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sisters, Mary (John) Profato and Edith Turconi and her brother, Aldino (Maryann) Turconi.

Katherine was a faithful member of St. Monica Church of St. Augustine Parish, where she was active in the Prayer Shawl ministry and VSP. Her faith guided her life and was reflected in the compassion and generosity she showed to others. Those who knew her the closest can still hear her saying the Hail Mary. She was known as an avid and talented cook who expressed her love through the meals she prepared for her family, especially her cookie baking. Kaye’s kitchen was the heart of the home, where countless memories were made around the table with children, grandchildren, and friends. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered by her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her life was a testament to love, faith, family, and friendship, and her memory will live on in the hearts of those she touched. The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Franciscan Manor and Advanced Hospice for the compassionate care, kindness, and support they provided to her during the final days of her life.

A Visitation will be held on Sunday, March 22nd from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Gabauer-Lutton Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc., 117 Blackhawk Road, Beaver Falls, who was in charge of her arrangements.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, March 23rd at 10 A.M. at St. Monica Church, 116 Thorndale Drive, Beaver Falls, with Fr. John Naugle as celebrant, with burial to follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery, 2927 Clayton Road, Beaver Falls. Family and friends are invited to celebrate her life.

Donald James Mittner (1963-2026)

Donald James Mittner, 63, passed away at his home on March 18th, 2026.

Through the years, he had many nicknames and titles, lke Don, Donnie, Mitt, Coach and Councilman. However, above all things, the titles of husband and dad meant the most. He is survived his wife of almost 37 years, Aliene (Davidson), and his children, Lauren, Andrew (Jocelyn), and Alex. He was also a dog dad to his beloved Yuki and Millie, who were often seen walking him around town as he greeted his neighbors and friends. He was born on June 24th, 1963, a son of the late George and Theresa Mittner. In addition to his parents, Donald is preceded in death by his fathers-in-law, Richard Zinsser and Edmund Tabay, and his brother-in-law, Mark Davidson. He was raised in New Brighton alongside his siblings Denise (Larry) Adkins, David Mittner, and Diane (Adrianna) D’Addio. He was part of New Brighton’s Class of 1980. After graduating from Slippery Rock, he moved to Florida, where he began his teaching career. He soon returned to the New Brighton Area School District and taught in the elementary school until his retirement in 2025. He took joy in teaching, and his legacy will live on in the lives he touched over the decades. Students still lovingly tell his family about hearing Mr. Mittner’s voice boom around the open layout of the elementary school. For generations of children, the phrase “E-I-E-I-E-I-O” will forever be tied to the One O’clock Yell, which went silent when he retired. He spent decades walking the sidelines at Oak Hill Field, coaching the New Brighton Fighting Lions, first as the junior high coach and eventually becoming assistant head coach of the varsity team. He also served as a baseball coach for New Brighton. His commitment to community service didn’t stop with the schools. In 2025, he retired from the Bew Brighton Borough Council, where he served as Ward 4’s Councilman for 20 years. In addition, he served on New Brighton’s Recreation Committee and was the president of the New Brighton Memorial Day Association. When he wasn’t working, you could find Donald with a tool or a guitar in his hands. He was constantly tinkering with projects around his home. Recently, he returned to singing and songwriting, releasing songs on YouTube under the band name LYNX.

He is survived by his loving wife and children, his siblings, and his brothers-in-law, Scott (Kathy) Davidson and Joe (Dana) Tabay, and his sister-in-law Kelly (Norman) Hainer, along with numerous nieces and nephews who adored him.

Friends and family will be received on Sunday, March 22nd, from 12-3 p.m. and 5-8 p.m. at the J&J Spratt Funeral Home, Inc. 1612 3rd Avenue, New Brighton, who was in charge of his arrangements. A Mass of Christian Burial will occur on Monday, March 23rd at 10 a.m. at Holy Family Church, 521 7th Avenue, New Brighton, with a procession to St. Joseph Cemetery, 1501 1st Avenue, New Brighton, will follow thereafter.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the New Brighton Gridiron Club, P.O. Box 396, New Brighton, PA, 15066.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Donald J Mittner, please visit the flower store of the J&J Spratt Funeral Home, Inc. by clicking here.

David C. Paugh (1948-2026)

David C. Paugh, 77, of Darlington, passed away on March 17th, 2026, at Heritage Valley Beaver. He was born in Weirton, West Virginia on November 27th, 1948, a son of the late Oliver and Sara Paugh. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Oliver Paugh. He is survived by his wife, Rosalie Paugh, his children: Amy (Dave) Reider, Angela (Cliffton) Horstin, David (Ashley) Paugh, Jr., John (Jeanette) Paugh, Michelle Baloga, Andrew Baloga, David (CJ) Baloga; as well as fourteen grandchildren, one great granddaughter, his brother, Lawrence Paugh, several nieces and nephews and his special cat, Nemo.

David was a proud U.S. Veteran who served during the Vietnam War. He graduated with an associate’s degree from West Virginia Northern Community College. He retired from the Postal Service in 2010 after he worked there for 22 years. He loved fishing and NASCAR. There will be a memorial celebration on Saturday, April 4th, at 2 p.m. at the Wellsburg Banquet Hall, 1121 Yankee Street, Wellsburg, West Virginia. Arrangements have been entrusted to Corless-Matter Funeral Home and Cremation Services, LLC., 1133 Church Street, Ambridge.

Frank J. Namath (1967-2026)

Frank J. Namath, 58, of Baden, passed away on March 16th, 2026 at Heritage Valley Beaver. He was born in Monaca on April 18th, 1967, a son of the late Robert Sr. and Billie (Bonamn) Namath. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his pet, Memphis. He is survived by his wife, Carol Namath, his son, Caleb Namath, his sister, Connie (Steve) Sluzynsky of Monaca, his brothers, Bobby Namath Jr. of Monaca, Richie (Sara) Namath of Conway and Danny Namath, of Weirton, West Virginia, nieces and nephews: Timmy Namath, Steven and Meghan Sluzynsky, and Madison, Abigail, and Hunter Namath; as well as aunts, Edith Namath of Beaver Falls and Sharon Namath, of New Brighton, his uncle, Joseph Namath of Florida and lastly his pet, Carlos Santiago Namath, the Golden Retriever; as well as numerous other family members.

Frank will be remembered as a devoted family man whose greatest joy in life was the time he spent with those he loved most. He took immense pride in his son, Caleb, who was truly his pride and joy. He was a constant presence at every event and milestone, always showing unwavering support and love. He had a passion for the simple things in life. He especially enjoyed canning (most notably peppers) with his cousin, Frank. He also carried on a love of cooking passed down from his father, often spending time grilling and crafting his own homemade barbeque sauce. He was an avid outdoorsman and was a dedicated fisherman who would travel to destinations such as Florida and Erie in pursuit of the perfect catch, though he was just as happy casting a line anywhere he could. When he wasn’t fishing, he could often be found riding his tractor and tending to his lawn. He was also a lifelong and enthusiastic Steelers fan who rarely missed a game and always cheering on his team with passion. Among his proudest personal accomplishments was being part of the 1985 WPIAL championship football team for Monaca, a memory he carried with him throughout his life. He will be remembered for his strong sense of family, his dedication to those he loved, and the joy he found in life’s everyday moments.

Family and friends will be received on Thursday, March 19th, from 4-7 p.m., at the J&J Spratt Funeral Home Inc., 1612 3rd Avenue, New Brighton, who was in charge of his arrangements. An additional viewing will be held at that funeral home on Friday, March 20th from 10 a.m. until the time of a blessing service at 11 a.m., with Father Joe Carr officiating. A procession to St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery, 2045 Darlington Road, Beaver Falls, will follow immediately after the service.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Frank J. Namath, please visit the flower store of the J&J Spratt Funeral Home, Inc. by clicking here.

Jeanette L. Tuffie (Passed on March 15th, 2026)

Jeanette L. Tuffie, 82, passed away peacefully on March 15th, 2026. She was born in Frostburg, Maryland. She spent the majority of her life in Monaca and most recently made her home in Center Township, Pennsylvania. She was a loving daughter of the late Charles Dyche and Thelma Dyche Shriner. Her family’s roots in Monaca stretched back to 1953. She is survived by her devoted husband, August J. “Buzz” Tuffie and their union began on March 14th, 1964, at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Monaca. Even though she was preceded in death by her son, Trent Tuffie, Jeanette’s spirit lives on through her son, Dean Tuffie and her daughter and son-in-law, Lainie and Benjamin Liptak. Her joy was multiplied with the arrival of her grandchildren, Trent and P.J. Liptak. She is also survived by her caring sister, Donna Michael, and her brother, John (Patty) Shriner.

Jeanette was a proud graduate of Monaca High School, class of 1962. Her professional journey was marked by a notable tenure as the Director of Activities for Providence Health and Rehabiliation Center in Beaver Falls. She was a longtime member of the Monaca Junior Women’s Club and St. John’s School PTA while her children were students there. Her service extended to the Beaver County Council of Governments and she also held numerous offices with the American Heart Association, demonstrating her commitment to the well-being of others. As we mourn the loss of Jeanette L. Tuffie, we also celebrate a life lived with purpose, joy, and an abundance of love.

Friends will be received on Saturday, March 21st from 12 noon until 3 p.m. at SIMPSON FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES, 1119 Washington Avenue, Monaca, who was in charge of her arrangements.

Edward C. Dambach (1949-2026)

Edward C. Dambach, 76, of Chippewa Township, passed away after a courageous battle with cancer on March 16th, 2026, at Danbury Hudson Assisted Living in Hudson, Ohio. He was born in New Castle on December 4th, 1949. He is survived by his mother, Marian Dambach, his daughter and son-in-law, Gretchen and Steven Fritsch, his granddaughters, Hallie and Adrienne “Addy” Fritsch, his sister and brother-in-law, Patty and Thomas Bishop, his brother-in-law, Carl Hillard, his nieces and nephews including: Kimberly (Kirk) Haberman, Timothy (Anna) Bishop, Robyn Mullin, Abigail (Nathan) Donolo, Allison (Ryan) Boyles; as well as his several great nieces and nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his father, Dean Dambach, his wife, Diana Dambach, and infant brother, Gary Dambach.

Edward graduated from Laurel High School in 1967. He then went on to graduate from Westminster College in 1971 and received his Master’s degree from Westminster in 1976. He taught mathematics at Blackhawk High School for 35 years and at Geneva College for 40 years. He received multiple distinguished teaching awards throughout his careers. He was passionate about education and authored two math textbooks that are still used at Geneva College today. He also served on the Noyse Grant program that contributed to enriching the abilities of STEM teachers. In his spare time, he was an avid golfer who enjoyed refinishing furniture and tutoring many math students. He was incredibly active in his community and church serving on multiple boards. He lived a life of warmth, kindness and an unwavering devotion to the people around him and he treasured time with family and friends. A visitation will occur on Thursday, March 19th, from 2-4 p.m. and 6-9 p.m. at Corless-Kunselman Funeral Services, LLC, 3801 4th Avenue, Beaver Falls, who was in charge in his arrangements. A funeral service will also be held on Friday, March 20th at 11 a.m. at Chippewa United Methodist Church, 2545 Darlington Road, Beaver Falls. A procession will follow to Sylvania Hills Mausoleum, 273 PA-68, Rochester. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Edward C. Dambach Funded Scholarship at Geneva College or the Multiple Myeloma Program at The Cleveland Clinic.

Thomas Mizonick (1935-2026)

Thomas “Tom” Mizonick, 90, passed away peacefully on March 2nd, 2026, in Santa Clarita, California after a lengthy illness. He was born on September 23rd, 1935, a beloved son of the late Michael Mizonick and Helen Puchar Mizonick. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his devoted wife of 63 years, Betty Fischer Mizonick, his son-in-law, Jan Prasniewski, his brothers: John Sonich, Charles Sonich, Stephen Locke, and Nick Locke and his sisters, Anne Havis and Kathryn Nedde. Their memories remained a source of strength and comfort throughout his life. He is survived by his loving daughter, Lisa Mizonick of Santa Clarita, California, who was his constant support and devoted caregiver, his nephew, Richard Locke of Plano, Texas, his sister-in-law, Sally Kuhel and her husband, Rudy of Ambridge, and many cherished nieces and nephews who treasured his warmth, humor, and gentle presence.

Thomas was raised in a close-knit family and his values of kindness, loyalty, and generosity shaped the steady and compassionate man he became. He was a man of quiet resilience and deep loyalty and he leaves behind a legacy of kindness, family devotion, and unwavering love. His absence will be deeply felt, but his memory will continue to bring comfort and gratitude to all who knew him. He was an avid golfer and football fan, passions that brought joy and camaraderie throughout his life. He proudly served in the U.S. Army and retired after a lengthy career at the Motion Picture Industry in Studio City, California. He was also a 1954 graduate of Ambridge High School and he valued lifelong friendships, including his friend Rich Vasques.

A memorial service will be held at a later date in California to celebrate his life and legacy. Arrangements have been entrusted to the John Syka Funeral Home, Inc., 833 Kennedy Drive, Ambridge.

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

Bonnie Jean Martin (Fouse) (1962-2026)

Bonnie Jean Martin (Fouse), 63, of Economy, passed away on March 16th, 2026, in the comfort of her home, surrounded by the love of her family. She was born in Sewickley and she was raised in Hopewell Township, where she learned the values that defined her life: faith, family, kindness, and service to others. Those who knew Bonnie knew her as someone who never met a stranger. She was a friend to everyone she encountered and was always ready with a smile, genuine advice, or a listening ear. Her heart was big enough to make everyone feel welcome and loved. She was the devoted wife of John W. Martin. Bonnie and John shared a beautiful love. Together, they built a life centered on faith, family, and loyal support for one another. This was especially evident during life’s most difficult challenges. Their marriage was marked by deep loyalty, laughter, and a partnership that served as an example to everyone who knew them.

Bonnie was also a proud and loving mother to Rayna Knox (Michael), Amy Effler (Kristopher), and Allison Feszko (Nicolo). Being their mother was one of her greatest joys and proudest callings. She was their constant source of encouragement, their steadfast provider of wisdom, and their safe place in every season of life. Through every milestone and challenge, Bonnie was there with immeasurable love, guidance, and prayers, which shaped the women they have become.

Perhaps her most cherished title was “Wobie.” As a grandmother, she was simply perfect—showering endless love, encouragement, and joy on her grandchildren and granddogs: Brenlee Jean (15), Baylee Elizabeth (11), Michaela Ray (6), Isaac Martin (4), Silas John (2), and Lucy, Copper, and Anna. Being their Wobie brought her such happiness; they were the light of her life. They will hold dear memories of times at Lake Raystown, pajama walks, nature walks, weekly family dinners, playing with both baby dolls and trucks, reading books, attending many sporting events and activities, and coloring on the driveway with chalk.

Bonnie was the cherished daughter-in-law of Ada “Betty” Martin. She is lovingly remembered by her sister, Tina (Dave) Harmon, and her brother, Dale (Kathy) Fouse, along with sister-in-law, Joann (Paul) Hovan, brother-in-law, Kevin (Kim) Martin, and other family members, including nieces and nephews who meant the world to her. Bonnie loved her family deeply and cherished every moment spent with them.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Ray and Virginia Fouse, and her father-in-law, Donald Martin.

Bonnie was a dedicated and lifelong member of Ohio United Presbyterian Church in Aliquippa, where her faith was not only something she believed but something she lived every day. Her church family was incredibly important to her, and she treasured the many brothers and sisters in Christ who walked alongside her throughout her life. Her life was defined by quiet but countless acts of service, both in her personal life and in her career as a nurse at Sewickley Valley Hospital, Ambridge Area School District, and Masonic Village Sewickley. She was always the first to be there when someone needed help, encouragement, or comfort. She loved others with her whole heart and gave generously of herself, never expecting anything in return.

Her life was a beautiful reflection of her faith and trust in the Lord. The words of Psalm 121 reflect the hope she carried: “I lift up my eyes to the hills—where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.” Bonnie lived with the assurance that the Lord was her strength in every circumstance. If you knew Bonnie, you felt loved. Her warmth, faith, and dedication to her family will remain a lasting legacy in the lives of all who knew her.

Family and friends will be received on Wednesday, March 18th, from 5–8 P.M. in the John Syka Funeral Home Inc., 833 Kennedy Drive, Ambridge, who was in charge of her arrangements. A time of viewing will also be held on Thursday, March 19th from 9–10 A.M. in the Ohio United Presbyterian Church in Hopewell, followed by a service to celebrate her beautiful life. Her final resting place will be Sylvania Hills Memorial Park, 273 PA-68, Rochester.

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