Category: Obituaries

Matthew Yanosich, Sr. (1931-2026)

Matthew Yanosich, Sr., 95, of Center Township, passed away peacefully on April 6th, 2026, at Heritage Valley Beaver, surrounded by the family who adored him. He was born in Rochester on February 21st, 1931, a beloved son of the late Matthew and Barbara Yanosich. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Carol and his sister-in-law, Fran Yanosich. He is survived by his sons, Matthew (Maureen) Yanosich Jr. of Bedford, New Hampshire, and John (Lori) Yanosich of Mentor, Ohio, his brother, Nicholas Yanosich of Beaver, his grandchildren, Eric (Kate Tannura) Yanosich and Grace Yanosich and his nieces, Debra Yanosich, Stephen and Rosanne (Darryl) Thornton.

Matthew was a proud 1950 graduate of Midland High School who excelled in multiple sports and carried that same determination into his years at Penn State University, where he lettered in football as a running back during the 1951-52 season. His time at Penn State was cut short when he was drafted into the United States Army a call to service he answered with pride and humility. After returning home, he built a long and dedicated career as a lab technician at the former Arco Chemical Plant, where he worked for 38 years. He was a devout Catholic who lived his faith quietly but deeply, leading the Rosary at St. Barnabas – Beaver Meadows and finding joy in community, fellowship, and service. He was also honored as a member of the Beaver County Sports Hall of Fame. During his seven years at St. Barnabas, he became a cherished presence-known for his positivity, his kindness, and the way he made everyone feel seen. He embraced life there fully: contributed to resident meetings, enjoying musical performances, participating in bingo (always chasing that coverall), and taking treasured trips to Bruster’s for ice cream. He never missed his six daily walks – except, of course, on Sundays during football season. Even in his final days at Heritage Valley Hospital, the staff said, “he was special” and “a lovely gentleman”, a reflection of the warmth he carried with him every day. Family was the heart of his world. He delighted in annual birthday dinners at PF Chang’s, complete with salmon, sparklers, and ice cream. No treat brought him more joy than Penn State Creamery vanilla ice cream, a simple pleasure that never lost its magic. He created a lifetime of memories with those he loved: vacations to Myrtle Beach, milestone anniversaries celebrated in Hawaii and Scotland, stories from his days at the brickyard, and Christmas gatherings filled with laughter. His greatest joy, without question, was his grandchildren. He encouraged them endlessly with his signature reminder: “Do Your Best!” His nightly 8 p.m. calls, his cheerful spirit, and his gentle wisdom will be deeply missed.

Friends will be received on Thursday, April 9th, from 4-7 p.m. in the Noll Funeral Home Inc., 333 Third Street, Beaver, who was in charge of his arrangements. A Mass of Christian Burial will be conducted on Friday, April 10th, at 10:30 a.m. at Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church, 200 Third Street, Beaver. Online condolences may be shared at www.nollfuneral.com. Entombment will follow at Beaver Cemetery Mausoleum, Buffalo Street, Beaver, where he will be laid to rest beside his beloved wife, Carol.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Matt’s name to St. Barnabas – Beaver Meadows, 5130 Tuscarawas Road, Beaver, PA 15009.

Matthew’s family extends their deepest gratitude to the staff of St. Barnabas – Beaver Meadows and Heritage Valley Beaver for the compassionate, loving care they provided throughout his stay.

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

Kristin Joy Gornek (1981-2026)

Kristin Joy Gornek, 44, of New Brighton, passed away unexpectedly at her residence on April 4th, 2026. She was born in Pittsburgh on December 25th, 1981, a daughter of William Lee and Shirley Starrett-Schoen. In addition to her parents, she is survived by her loving husband of ten years, Kenneth W. Gornek, her sister, Kaitlyn Schoen, her brothers, Douglas William (Christy) Schoen and Michael Thomas Schoen and her step-son, Jalen Gornek.

Kristin was a dedicated professional who spent many years working in human resources for Foerster Instruments, where she was known for her kindness, reliability, and genuine care for the people she worked with. Outside of her career, she found joy in life’s simple pleasures and meaningful moments. She loved tending to her garden, taking pride in watching it grow and bloom. She also found peace and creativity in playing her guitar. She will be remembered for her gentle spirit, her warm heart, and the quiet passions that brought her happiness.

Family and friends are welcome for a memorial visitation on Saturday, April 11th from 10 a.m. until 12 noon at the J&J Spratt Funeral Home, Inc. 1612 3rd Avenue, New Brighton, who was in charge of her arrangements.

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

Duane J. Swaney (1948-2026)

Duane J. Swaney, 78, of Beaver, passed away peacefully surrounded by the love of his family on April 4th, 2026, following an extended illness. He leaves behind not only a legacy of faith, kindness, and devotion to the Lord, but also a lifetime of laughter, warmth, and unforgettable memories. He was born in Rochester on January 25th, 1948, a son of the late Hall and Geraldine Swaney. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Larry Swaney. He is survived by his wife of 43 and a half years, Linda Swaney of Beaver, his son, Jason Latchaw of Brighton Township, his daughter, Lori (JD) Tharp of Beaver, and his grandchildren: Madison, Jocelyn Latchaw, Gavin Swaney-Latchaw, and Isaac and Ella Tharp, who were the pride of his life. Each of them carries forward his love, his laughter, and his spirit.

Duane was raised in Hookstown and proudly served his country as a veteran of the U.S. Navy. He went on to have a long career as a Journeyman Electrician with IBEW Labors Union #712. He was a faithful attendee of Northway Christian Community, Beaver Valley in Rochester. More than anything, he was a family man. He had a great sense of humor and a way of making those around him laugh, even in the simplest moments. His jokes, stories, and playful spirit will be remembered and cherished by all who knew him. He found his greatest joy in being with his family, and he made sure they always knew how much they meant to him.

Friends will be received on Friday, April 10th, from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. at the Noll Funeral Home, Inc., 333 Third Street, Beaver, who was in charge of his arrangements. A memorial service will also take place on Saturday, April 11th, at 10 a.m. at Northway Christian Community, Beaver Valley, 300 Brighton Avenue, Rochester. Interment will take place at the National Cemetery of the Alleghenies, 1158 Morgan Road, Bridgeville. Online condolences may be shared at nollfuneral.com.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Duane’s name may be made to Habitat of Humanity of Beaver County, 47 Bridge Street, Beaver Falls, PA 15010.

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

MaryAnn (Golubic) Merriman (1945-2026)

MaryAnn (Golubic) Merriman, 80, of Pittsburgh, passed away peacefully on March 30th, 2026 with her daughter and a close family friend by her side. She was born in Pittsburgh on November 20th, 1945, a daughter of the late Stephen & Florence Ann (Pavlick) Golubic. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Bill. She is survived by her son, Damien Merriman of Vancouver and Melissa (Merriman) Leach of Coraopolis, her three granddaughters, Sydney, Hailey and Riley, who were her pride and joy, a brother, Robert Golubic, a sister, Stephanie Vukmanic (Walter Jr.), her niece, Michelle Vukmamic and Walter Vukmanic, (Dannelle), along with many other nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews.

MaryAnn and her husband Bill started the company W.K. Merriman, Inc. in 1986. She was thrilled that the company will be celebrating 40 years this May. She lived a life marked by generosity, humor, Pittsburgh sports teams and a passion for learning. She devoted her life to her family and her “team” at W.K. Merriman, Inc. She touched many lives through work and personal hobbies. Her kindness, love and devotion to her family and friends will be forever remembered and deeply missed.

A celebration of life for MaryAnn will be held in the month of May and details on it will be announced at a later date.

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

Brian Keith Liberty (1963-2026)

Brian Keith Liberty, 63, of Darlington Township, passed away on April 5th, 2026 at Heritage Valley Beaver. He was born in New Brighton on January 30th, 1963, a son of the late Leroy “Buck” and Joyce (Cunning) Liberty. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Robert “Slim” Cunning. He is survived by his beloved wife of 48 years, Rose M. (Ours) Liberty, his children, Hailie Liberty and Henry Liberty, his brothers, Donald “Beak” (Chris) Liberty, Jeff (Amy) Liberty and Jimmy (Jen) Kosloski; his sister, Carrie Krupa and her son, Levi, his dog, Winnie, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

Brian was a graduate of Beaver Falls High School. He was a devoted husband, father, and hardworking man whose life was rooted in the things he loved most: his family, his animals, and the outdoors. He dedicated himself to a career in construction for many years. He found his greatest joy in the company of his horses and dogs, spending countless hours showing & breeding horses and embracing the peace of being outdoors. Above all, he cherished his family, sharing the loving years with his devoted wife, Rose, and raising two children who were the center of his world.

There are no services at this time for Brian. The GABAUER-LUTTON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, Inc., 117 Blackhawk Road, Beaver Falls, was honored to care for Brian and his family during this most difficult time and was the funeral home that was in charge of his arrangements.

Holden Bradley Eckman (2022-2026)

Holden Bradley Eckman, 3, lovingly known as “Holdy B,” passed away unexpectedly on April 2nd, 2026, surrounded by so much love, all his music, and more importantly, his two favorite people, Mommy and Daddy. He was born on December 28th, 2022 and is survived by his parents, Sydney and Brad Eckman, his little brother, Maddox Eckman, his maternal grandparents, John and Melissa Kaercher, his paternal grandmother, Beth Tatko (Bill Parish); his paternal grandfather, Rick Eckman, his uncle and godfather, Jon Kaercher (Jacob Longerbeam), his godmother, Ryleigh Bauer (Shane Hopkins), his maternal great-grandparents, Ronnie and Jackie Golletti, his paternal great-grandfather, Bob Tatko, his aunt, Leeanna (Will) Norman, his great-aunts: Melanie Bauer, Maryann Angeline, Bobbi Naples, Kathy Alvarez, Sue Tatko, and Jessica Tatko; as well as his great-uncles, Ryan Bauer, Ed Angeline, Sam Naples, Joe Alvarez, and John Tatko; along with his “best babysitter,” Ms. Jeri; his nenny and pay-pay, and many other loving family members and friends. He was preceded in death by his baby brother; his maternal great-grandparents, John and Rae Kaercher; his paternal great-grandparents, Ralph and Lela Eckman, and his paternal great-grandmother, Marge Tatko.

Holden was the most loving, kind, and caring boy you could have ever met. He stole the hearts of everyone he met with his sweet spirit, joyful heart, comical personality, unforgettable smile and contagious laugh. Though his time here was far too short, he made a lasting impact on every life he touched. He was not dealt a fair chance at life, but he never let that stop him. He loved life more than anyone we know, and made sure to live every moment to the fullest. He never backed down and always going at his own speed and was truly unstoppable. Some of his favorite things included his bb’s, pad-pad, superheroes, dressing up in his costumes, being in his pj’s, his music, Play-Doh, playing outside at the park, baking brownies with Mommy, deer hunting with Daddy, being the best big brother to Maddox, buying a new toy every single day, Donald’s, rolls and dip, tea, popcorn, and slushies, the beach, adventures anywhere, shopping, playing with friends, snuggling, Halloween, The Grinch, and just being at his most favorite place–home.

Holden had a special way of bringing people together. Through his strength, joy, and pure love for life, he touched the lives of people he never even met and taught everyone around him so much about what truly matters: how to live fully, love deeply, and cherish every single moment. Holden will be deeply missed by all those who love him.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Dr. Friehling and Dr. Piper for their compassionate care during Holden’s initial AML diagnosis.

A heartfelt and profound thank you goes out to Dr. Randy for the love and dedication he showed to Holden over the last 15 months: for playing with him, caring for him, and most importantly, being by his side throughout his final day.

The family would also like to express their deepest gratitude to all of the nurses and staff at Children’s Hospital, who became like family throughout this journey. Your compassion, love, and unwavering support will never be forgotten.

Holden’s love, laughter, and beautiful spirit will live on forever in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him and he will never be forgotten.

Family and friends are welcome to attend a Mass to celebrate the wonderful life of Holden on Tuesday, April 7th, at St. Felix Church, 450 13th Street, Freedom at 10 a.m. Following the Mass, all are invited to join the family for a luncheon at Holden’s favorite restaurant, Texas Roadhouse.

All arrangements have been entrusted to William Murphy Funeral Home, Inc., 349 Adams Street, Rochester.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Holden’s name to the Beaver County Cancer and Heart Association, 3582 Brodhead Road #201, Monaca, PA 15061.

Avis Maxine Flick Watt (1930-2026)

Avis Maxine Flick Watt, 96, of Beaver and Beaver Falls, passed away on April 3rd, 2026. She was born in Saxonburg on January 28th, 1930, a daughter of the late Walter and Elma Flick. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Merle Edwin Watt. They had a great life together being married 67 years until the time of his death. She was also preceded in death by her son, Edwin Lee Watt, her brothers and their spouses, Robert (Margie) Flick, Kenneth (Gertrude) Flick, her sisters and their spouses, Genevieve (Kenneth) Bauman and Pauline (Bud) Thurau and her sister-in-law, Amanda Flick. She is survived by her son, Alan (Sandra) Watt, of Smithville, Tennessee, her daughter-in-law, Janet Shaddick of Beaver, her former daughter-in-law Dixie Watt of Brentwood, Tennessee, her grandchildren: Bryan (Stephanie) Watt of Spring Hill, Tennessee, Amy Watt of Brentwood, Tennessee, Abby Watt (Patrick Woods) of Pittsburgh and Megan Watt (Jarred Gates) of Moon Township; as well as her great grandchildren, Ruby Ball, Oliver Watt, Phoenix Watt and Ramy Woods, her brother, Dale Flick and many nieces and nephews.

Avis was raised on a farm in Cherry Valley in Clinton Township of Butler County. She was a bookkeeper for North Star Cheese in Bakerstown, Pennsylvania for many years. She and Merle moved to Beaver where she was a bookkeeper for Vanport Municipal Authority. She has been preparing for this day since an early age completely believing in the Christian Bible verse of John 14: 2-3 and 2 Timothy 4: 7-8. She was raised Presbyterian and over the course of her life she was a Sunday School teacher, Deacon, Pastor Search Committee Member and greeter. She loved her church immensely. She maintained active with various Presbyterian churches as her health allowed. She was also a Past Worthy Matron of Eastern Star and was an active member of the Tusca Ridge Garden Club. She enjoyed gardening, traveling and fishing on Lake Erie. She was someone that only looked for the good in people. She was also level headed and mild mannered. She’ll be in our hearts always.

The family is grateful to all the staff at Franciscan Manor for their care during the past 12 years.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, April 7th from 6-8 p.m., at Noll Funeral Home, Inc., 333 Third Street, Beaver, who was in charge of her arrangements, and where a Funeral Service will be conducted on Wednesday, April 8th at 11 a.m.

Followed by burial at Beaver Cemetery, Buffalo Street, Beaver.

Roger A. Baker (1962-2026)

Roger A. Baker, 63, of Brighton Township, passed away on April 2nd, 2026. He was born in Utica, New York on February 19th, 1962, a son of the late Robert and Ada Sue (Bicker) Baker. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother-in-law, Bill Loughman.

He is survived by his wife, Lynn Baker, his daughter, Delanie (Grant) Sills, his siblings, Robbee (Tom) Kosak, Ross (Adria) Baker and Randy Baker, his mother-in-law, Nancy Loughman, his sisters in law, Leigh (Gary) Majetic, Laurie (Karl) Ludwig and Lisa Loughman and many nieces and nephews.

Roger was a member of the Hopewell VFW post 8805. He retired from the Pittsburgh International Airport where he was an Air Traffic Controller.

There will be a celebration of life for Roger at a later date. Arrangements have been entrusted to the branch of Huntsman Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

Rosetta (Ely) Baker (Passed on April 1st, 2026)

Rosetta (Ely) Baker, 81, a lifelong resident of Monaca, passed away on April 1st, 2026 at her residence. She was born in Beaver Falls, a daughter of the late Keith and Ella Ely. She was united in marriage to her beloved husband, William P. Baker, on April 4th, 1981. Together, they shared many years of love and companionship until his passing on August 8th, 2013. Their marriage was a lasting example of commitment and care, and the memories they created together remained close to Rosetta’s heart throughout her life.

In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by her sisters: Beatrice Knowlson, Barbara Vanats, Mary Lou Jeffers, and Sandy Hunter, as well as her brothers, Charles Ely, Keith Thomas Ely, and Ralph Ely. Though she experienced the loss of many loved ones, she carried their memory with grace and held her family bonds close throughout her life. She is survived by her children, Shirell Tislaretz and her husband, Frank, Sharon Molnar and her husband, Dean, LeRoy Ball and his wife, Ginger, and James Ball and his wife, Denise, her cherished ten grandchildren: Travis (Danielle)Tislaretz, Tyler (Catie) Ball, Leah Ball, Sharon (William) Gilliam, Allison Ball, Treyton Ball, Ella Ball, Frankie Fields, Selena Ball, and Matthew Berger; as well as her beloved great-grandchildren, Baker and Blake Tislaretz, as well as Jase Gilliam and William and Luca Ball, her sister, Bev Crisman, along with numerous nieces and nephews.

In her leisure time, Rosetta enjoyed playing Bunko and Bingo, pastimes that brought her laughter, friendship, and fun. She was also a devoted Pittsburgh Steelers fan and followed the team with enthusiasm and pride. These interests were part of the personality that made her memorable to those around her. She will be remembered for her loving heart, her devotion to family, and the strength she carried throughout her life.

Friends and family will be received on Friday, April 3rd from 3 -8 p.m. at SIMPSON FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES, 1119 Washington Avenue, Monaca, who was in charge of her arrangements, and where services will be held on Saturday, April 4th at 10 a.m. The Reverend James Sands, pastor of the Monaca United Methodist Church will officiate. Entombment will follow in Beaver Cemetery Mausoleum, Buffalo Street, Beaver.

Those wishing to make a memorial contribution in Rose’s memory , are asked to please consider http://roseadvocacy.org.

Edward Anthony Malack (1938-2026)

Edward Anthony Malack, 88, a beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away peacefully at home in White Township, surrounded by his loving family, on April 1st, 2026. He was born in Beaver Falls on March 29th, 1938. His parents were Anthony and Mary (Biswick) Malack. He was raised in a home filled with love, family, and faith, he carried those values throughout his life.

Edward’s earned degrees in mathematics, general engineering, and mechanical engineering from Geneva College and the University of Pittsburgh, later becoming a licensed Professional Engineer. His expertise benefited companies including Babcock & Wilcox, Chester Environmental, Baker Hughes, and McCarl’s Process Systems. His dedication and integrity left a lasting impact on colleagues and family alike. His commitment to excellence extended beyond his professional life. He dedicated time to his community by coaching Little League baseball and keeping score for the Enelow’s Pony League team during his children’s involvement. Throughout, he remained a devoted supporter of Pitt athletics and continually encouraged us to pursue our dreams and appreciate life’s simple joys. He was a proud member of the Beaver County Society of Engineering and the National Society of Professional Engineers, and his faith was central to his life as a member of Holy Trinity Parish in Beaver Falls and Holy Family Church in New Brighton, as well as Our Lady of the Valley Parish

Above all, his greatest joy was his family. He is survived by his devoted wife of 57 years, Linda (Jankowski) Malack, who stood by his side through every chapter. Heis also survived by his sons, Mark (Kylie) Malack and Edward (Andrea) Malack, and his grandchildren, Alexander “Alex” Malack, Nora Malack, and Christian Malack, who will always cherish his kindness, wisdom, and unconditional love.

Friends will be received on Monday, April 6th from 1-8 P.M. at the Gabauer-Lutton Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc., Chippewa Township, 117 Blackhawk Road, Beaver Falls, who was in charge of his arrangements, and where departing prayers will be offered Tuesday, April 7th at 9:15AM, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 A.M. at Holy Family Church, 521 7th Ave., New Brighton, with Fr. Howard Campbell officiating. Edward will be laid to rest at St. Mary’s Cemetery, 2927 Clayton Road, Beaver Falls.