Category: Obituaries

Nancy Jo Moritz (1953-2026)

Nancy Jo Moritz, 73, of Brighton Township, passed away on October 28th, 2026 at home. She was born in Rochester on March 22nd, 1953, the daughter of the late Jefferson and Nancy Higby Burchett.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph S. Moritz Jr., as well as two brothers, Jeffery and James Burchett.

She is survived by three daughters and sons-in-law, Katy J. and Bill Mittica-Cunningham of Brighton Township, Michelle J. and Rudolf Diesing of Brighton Township and Nicole J. and Andy Smith, of Indiana Township, two sons and daughters-in-law, Dr. Joseph S. III and Natalie Moritz, of Dillinger, Pennsylvania and John J. and Kristin Moritz of Brighton Township, ten grandchildren: Joe Henry, and Sam Moritz, Josey and Roland Moritz, Dominic and Michael Mittica, Rudolf and Mason Diesing, and Jonah and Luke Smith; as well as one sister and brother-in-law, Jennifer and William Penney of Rochester, and one brother and sister-in-law, Rick and Debbie Hughes of Brighton Township.

Nancy was a retired owner of Nancy’s Dog Grooming, she attended Pathway Church in Chippewa, and was a member of St. Peter and Paul Roman Catholic Church in Beaver and Our Lady of the Valley Parish. She was a devoted mother of five and a loving grandmother to ten grandchildren. She was a natural caregiver and she spent much of her life taking care of the people she loved and was always there when her family needed her. She had a special love for animals, was an amazing cook, and found joy in caring for those around her. She will be remembered most for her loving heart, her strength, and the countless ways she showed her love for her family.

A private family gathering and service will be held on Friday, October 30th, at the William Murphy Funeral Home Inc., 349 Adams Street, Rochester, who was in charge of her arrangements.

The family wishes memorial contributions be made to the New Horizon School PTO 128 Friendship Circle, Beaver PA 15009.

Harry E. Zehnder III (1956-2026)

Harry E. Zehnder III, 70, of Baden, formerly of Ohio Township, passed away on October 26th, 2026 at Cambridge Village in Beaver Falls.

He was born in Pittsburgh on January 17th, 1956, a son of the late Harry E. and Laverne I. Bennett Zehnder.

He is survived by his wife, Diane S. Baker Zehnder, his son, Patrick Zehnder, his daughter, Katelyn (Mike) Conner, his brother, Steven (Donna) Zehnder and his grandchildren, Luke and Sydney Conner.

Harry was a resident of Evans City and enjoyed a long career as a high school teacher and coach. He was Christian by faith and very active with the New Community Church, Wexford, Wilmington Area High School, Penn State Alumni Association, Avonworth High School and Westminster Alumni Groups.

Friends will be received on Saturday, October 31st, from 2 p.m. until 5 p.m. in the Noll Funeral Home, Inc., 333 Third Street, Beaver, who was in charge of his arrangements, and where a service will be conducted on Monday, November 2nd at 11 a.m.

Interment will take place at Allegheny Memorial Park Cemetery, 1600 Duncan Avenue, McCandless Township. Online condolences may be shared at nollfuneral.com.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Harry’s name, may be made to Wilmington Area School District, 300 Wood Street, New Wilmington, PA 16142.

To send flowers with our preferred florist or plant a memorial tree, please visit the flower store of the Noll Funeral Home, Inc. by clicking here.

James R. Hammond (Passed on October 27th, 2026)

James R. Hammond, 59, of Baden, passed away unexpectedly on October 27th, 2026.

He was a son of the late Robert J. and Ann Hammond, and he carried the values they instilled in him throughout his life.

James lived a life marked by hard work. For much of his working career, he was a self employed contractor. Outside of work, he found joy in the things that brought him peace and happiness. He loved fishing, and time spent near the water gave him a chance to relax, reflect, and enjoy the quiet moments. He also enjoyed traveling, and he especially valued the experiences that came with seeing new places and making lasting memories along the way. He leaves behind two sons who will carry forward his memory with pride and affection. He was also a proud grandfather to two grandsons. In addition to his sons and grandsons, he is survived by his brother and sister. He will be deeply missed by family and friends.

In accordance with his family’s wishes, all services will be private.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Simpson Funeral and Cremation Services, 1119 Washington Avenue, Monaca.

Patricia L. “Pat” Troy (1930-2026)

Patricia L. “Pat” Troy, 96, of Chippewa Township, passed away peacefully on October 26th, 2026, at home, surrounded by her family.

She was born in Washington, Pennsylvania on March 31st, 1930, a daughter of the late John and Catherine (Burns) Cavanaugh.

Patricia graduated from Claysville High School, moved to Chippewa and received her Nursing Degree from Providence Hospital. That is where she met, and later married her husband, Carl. Besides raising her family of 7 children, she enjoyed playing cards with her card club and playing bingo. She was an outstanding bowler – she even joined the “600 club” at White Township Lanes in 1984 (and her family will cherish the commemorative cross stitch that proves it!). She was also active in her church, St. Monica Church in Beaver Falls.

She belonged to the Christian Mothers and later enjoyed the activities of the VSPs. She loved attending any and all events that her children and grandchildren were involved in. She was an excellent baker and provided delicious desserts for family dinners every Sunday. Most of all, she loved people and they loved her. Her children and grandchildren often joked about her immense FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) – she was the life of the party and hated to miss any event!

She is survived by her husband of 72 years, Carl S. Troy, her children, Marianne (Rick) Knouse, Patricia (Robert) Selby, Janet Coy, Kathleen and Michael Troy; as well as her daughter-in-law, Judy Troy, her grandchildren: Katie (Bill) Arensberg, Cameron Knouse, Katie (Michael) DiSantis, Marianne (Brad) Ginther, Rose Selby, Jesse (Becca) Coy, Heather (Keith) Fritz, Maria (Xavier) Crown, Jaye, Troy, and Carly Garcia, David and Sarah Troy, Rumer, Elizabet, and Salome Troy; along with eight great-grandchildren, numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by an infant daughter, two sons, Carl J. Troy and David J. Troy, son-in-law, Robert Coy, her siblings: Catherine (George) Murphy, John (Evelyn) Cavanaugh, Charles (Dolores) Cavanaugh, Bill (Ella) Cavanaugh, and Jim (Shirley) Cavanaugh; as well as his brother-in-law, Richard (Charlene) Troy and his sister-in-law, Jean (Tony) Nudi.

The family would like to thank Pinnacle Hospice and the wonderful care she received from their team and especially her nurse, Jenna. Many thanks also goes out to Arcadia Home Care for her caregiver, Terri, who helped immensely.

Friends will be received on Tuesday, November 3rd from 3 P.M.- 7 P.M. in the GABAUER-LUTTON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, INC., Chippewa Township, 117 Blackhawk Road, Beaver Falls, who was in charge of her arrangements.

Departing prayers will be offered in the funeral home on Wednesday, November 4th 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.

Interment will be private at the National Cemetery of the Alleghenies, 1158 Morgan Road, Bridgeville.

To send flowers with our preferred florist or plant a memorial tree, please visit the flower store of the Gabauer Family Funeral Homes and Cremation Services by clicking here.

George J. Perez (1963-2026)

George J. Perez, 63, of New Sewickley Township, passed away on October 27th, 2026.

He was born on October 22nd, 1963, the son of Mario and Margie Perez.

He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Jesus Arroyo.

In addition to his parents, he is survived by his spouse, Paulette Perez, his children: Jonathan James Perez, Jessica Patterson, Jared (Jennifer) Sinchak, Deana (Stefan) Longo, and Breanne (Gary) Sherman; as well as his cherished grandchildren: Isabella, Rocco, Jaden, Mitchell, Prosperina, Jaylah, Amelia, Santino, Maurice, Mele, Tatum, Hayley, Emerik, and Maddox; along with his beloved dog, Macy and numerous dear friends.

George proudly served his country in the United States Army and continued his dedication to fellow veterans through more than 20 years of service at the National Cemetery of the Alleghenies in Bridgeville, a place where he took great pride in his work.

He was a devoted Pittsburgh sports fan who also enjoyed traveling with his family and spending time outdoors. Above all, he treasured the time spent with his loved ones and the lasting connections he made throughout his life.

A funeral service with full military honors will be held at 2 P.M. on Tuesday, November 3rd, at the National Cemetery of the Alleghenies, 1158 Morgan Road, Bridgeville.

Arrangements are entrusted to Alvarez-Hahn Funeral Services and Cremation, LLC, 547 8th Street, Ambridge.

Mary Ilene Soos (1950-2026)

Mary Ilene Soos, 75, of Beaver Falls, passed away on October 15th, 2026.

She was born in Beaver Falls on November 26th, 1950, the daughter of the late Arthur and Helen Nichols.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, Jim Nichols, her sister, Lila and her nephew, Calvin Duane McCon.

She is survived by her children: John (Bobbi Jo) Soos, Sheila Soos, Mark (Marlene) Soos, Kelly (Justin) Hare; as well as several grandchildren and great grandchildren, her nieces: Brenda Lee (Jack) Smith, Paula Jane (James) Hawkins, Cynthia Lynne McCon, Rhonda (The late Ronald) Gail; along with her nephews, Donald Allen (Kathy) McCon and Randal Scott (The late Jenne) McCon.

Mary was a devoted homemaker who took pride in creating a nurturing and loving environment for her family. She spent many years working at the Red Bull Inn and Guiseppe’s. She will be remembered for her love of car cruises and the Golden Oldies.

A celebration of Mary’s life will be announced at a later date.

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

Mary Catherine “Kathy” (Sebastian) Roknich (1951-2026)

Mary Catherine “Kathy” (Sebastian) Roknich, 75, of Alliance, Ohio, passed away on October 25th, 2026, at Orchards of Alliance in Alliance, Ohio.

She was born on April 26th, 1951, the daughter of the late Edward L. and Catherine M. (Petak) Sebastian.

In addition to her parents, she was was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Michael Roknich Sr. and her sons, Tony and Alexander Roknich.

She is survived by her loving sons, Michael (Jennifer) Roknich and Nicholas Roknich and her cherished grandchildren, David, Chloe, Addison, and Jillian.

Mary Catherine enjoyed spending time with her family, whom she loved dearly. She also had a creative side and found joy in making jewelry and creating beautiful diamond art projects.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, October 29th at 10 a.m. at St. Monica Church, 116 Thorndale Drive, Beaver Falls, with Father Kim J. Schreck as celebrant.

Interment will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery, 2152 Darlington Road, Beaver Falls.

In Luie of flowers, Memorial Contributions can be made to Make a Wish Foundation in Kathy’s name, online at https://wish.org/greaterpawv.

The GABAUER-LUTTON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, INC., 117 Blackhawk Road, Beaver Falls, was honored to care for Mary Catherine and her family during this difficult time.

To send flowers with our preferred florist or plant a memorial tree, please visit the flower store of Gabauer Family Funeral Homes & Cremation Services by clicking here.

Consider a donation, as requested by her family.

Judith A. Werner (1954-2026)

Judith A. Werner, 72, of Economy, passed away on October 26th, 2026.

She was born on April 22nd, 1954, a daughter of the late MaryLou and Robert Miller.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved son, Michael Werner and her brother, Ronald Miller.

She is survived by her loving children, Carrie Tuszynski and Nichole Werner, her sister, Susan (Randy) Hall, her cherished grandchildren, Brenden King, Lainey Tuszynski and Logan Tuszynski, her nieces, Leighann, Lauren, and Lindsey, her special dog, Princeton and numerous extended family members.

Judith was a graduate of Ambridge Area High School and went on to attend Community College of Beaver County, which was where she pursued her nursing education. She became a registered nurse and dedicated her career to caring for others at Villa St. Joseph Nursing Home, Masonic Village Nursing Home, and Sherwood Oaks Nursing Home. In her free time, she enjoyed crafting and making memories with her family, which included trips to Erie. Above all, she treasured the time she spent with her loved ones, especially her grandchildren, who brought her great joy.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Judith’s neighbors, friends, and the staff of Good Samaritan Hospice for the kindness, compassion, and wonderful care they provided to Judith over the years.

In accordance with Judith’s wishes, all services for her will be private.

Arrangements have been entrsuted to Alvarez-Hahn Funeral and Cremation Services, LLC, 547 8th Street, Ambridge.

Vicki Lee Shane (1951-2026)

Vicki Lee Shane, 75, of Beaver, passed away on October 20th, 2026, at AHN Beaver.

She was born in Sewickley on August 6th, 1951, the daughter of the late Clifford W. and Jeanne Johnston Shane.

Vicki was a retired law enforcement officer with the Pennsylvania State Police, the Beaver Police, and the Columbia South Carolina Police Department. She was a graduate of Duquesne University, receiving her Masters Degree in Behavioral Science, and was a mobile Therapist as a Behavior Specialist Consultant. She was a former member of Park Presbyterian Church in Beaver, a former member of the Heritage Club, and a former volunteer with the Beaver County Red Cross.

She is survived by numerous cousins.

In accordance with Vicki’s wishes, there will be no services for her.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the William Murphy Funeral Home Inc., 349 Adams Street, Rochester.

Memorial contributions are requested to be made to Park Presbyterian Church Memorial Fund, 275 Commerce Street, Beaver, PA 15009.

Marlane May (D’Antonio) Bartosh (1942-2026)

Marlane May (D’Antonio) Bartosh, 84, of Economy Borough, passed away peacefully at home on October 23rd, 2026, surrounded by her loving family and her beloved dog and companion named Petey.

She was born in New Brighton on March 9th, 1942, a daughter of the late Frank J. and Virginia (Shaffer) D’Antonio.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Walter L. Bartosh, her sister, Cheryl L. (D’Antonio) Bradford, her brother-in-law, Henry Potts, and several aunts and uncles.

She is survived by her children, Sherry (Jon) Freed, Ronald Bartosh and George Yaccich, her brother, Kenneth (Mary) D’Antonio, her sister, Deborah (D’Antonio) Potts, her grandchildren: Brittany Freed, Courtney, Jocelyn, Jacob, Julia and Eva Bartosh; as well as her great-granddaughter, Grace Noel Newkirk, her special aunt, Donna Lorence, her niece and nephews, Kenneth D’Antonio, Nicole (D’Antonio) Vallecorsa and Keith D’Antonio, two great-nieces, one great-nephew, many cousins and her faithful dog, Petey, who remained by her side during her final days.

Marlane was born at New Brighton Hospital and grew up in Aliquippa. She attended cosmetology school in Aliquippa and began her career working in her Aunt Dordy’s salon. After the birth of her daughter, Sherry, she devoted herself to raising her children and creating a loving home for her family. She took great pride in cooking, baking, and keeping her home spotless. For many years, Sunday dinners at Marlane’s home were a cherished family tradition, bringing loved ones together around the table. She also generously cared for neighborhood children while their parents were at work, extending her nurturing spirit to those around her. In the mid-1980s, she returned to the workforce full-time, first working at PA Fashions and later at Traco/Arconic, where she remained from 1995 until her retirement at the age of 78. She had a fondness for the color lavender and will be remembered for her devotion to her family, her caring nature, and the love she shared with those closest to her.

The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to AHN Hospice for the compassion, kindness, and exceptional care provided to Marlane and her loved ones during her final days.

A visitation will take place at 12 noon until the time of a funeral service at 4 P.M. on Sunday, November 1st at Alvarez-Hahn Funeral Services and Cremation LLC, 547 8th Street, Ambridge, who was in charge of her arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.