Category: Obituaries

Blaine E. Hepler (1939-2026)

Blaine E. Hepler, 87, of West Mayfield, formerly of Brighton Township, passed away on June 14th, 2026.

He was born in Connellsville on May 16th, 1939, the son of Orton Hepler and Jane (Beal) Hepler. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Linda and two sons-in-law, Ray Hermes and Christopher Bufalini. He is survived by his sons, David (Deniece) Hepler, of Georgia, Danny (Carey) Hepler, of West Mayfield and Darin (Nicole) Hepler of Brighton Township, his daughters, Denise Hermes (Keith Burr) of Texas, Darla Hepler, of Arizona and Dawn Bufalini, of West Mayfield, his sister, Linda Rose of Jeannette, as well as 9 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren.

Throughout his life, Blaine devoted much of his career to protecting and serving others. He served the community as a police officer for 7 years with the Brighton Township Police Department and was a proud volunteer fireman with the Brighton Township Fire Department. When he was 18, he spent his Saturdays as a lifeguard at Mt. Vernon Park, Blaine worked in loss prevention at the former department store Hills, and later retired from Mac Plastics in Washington, Pennsylvania. In his free time, he was an avid outdoorsman. He found great joy while fishing and camping, especially his peanut time with his camping crew. Family members fondly recall the time when he named a calf after Renee and raised it in the fenced area of the yard, until they butchered it which was almost the end of their relationship.

Friends will be received on Sunday, June 21st from 12 noon until 4 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, June 22nd at 11 a.m. Private Inurnment to take place at Beaver Cemetery, Buffalo Street, Beaver, at a late date. Online condolences may be shared at nollfuneral.com.

To send flowers or plant a memorial tree in memory, please visit the flower store of the Noll Funeral Home, Inc. by clicking here.

Kenneth A. Sullivan (Passed on June 3rd, 2026)

Kenneth A. Sullivan, 74, passed away surrounded by his family in South Florida on June 3rd, 2026, after a brief illness.

Kenneth grew up in Industry, where he learned what it meant to be part of Steeler Nation during the heyday of the black and gold. He was a free spirit who enjoyed his youth to the fullest, made his own rules in his Camaro, and worked in the mill until moving to Plantation, Florida, where he worked at Motorola and Federal Express. However, even after moving to South Florida in the early ’80s, his heart remained in Pittsburgh. What mattered most to him was his family and friends. The absolute joy of Ken’s life was his three grandkids, Abby, Emmie, and Dax, all of whom will cherish memories of him cheering them on from the sidelines or shining with pride as each excelled and grew in individual ways.

Kenneth and his wife, Donna (Larizza) Sullivan celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary this past September. He was a practicing member of Saint Gregory the Great Catholic Church in Plantation, Florida, for the last 43 years.

He was preceded in death by his father, James Sullivan (Don), his mother, Ruth (McBride) Sullivan, his brother, David Sullivan, and his sister-in-law, Sue (Davis) Sullivan. In addition to his wife and three grandchildren, he is survived by his son, Dan Sullivan, his daughter-in-law, Raquel (Rodriguez) Sullivan, his sisters, Nancy Peluso (Sullivan), and Donna Sullivan and her partner, Jimmy O’Brien, his sisters-in-law, Nancy Larizza and Natalie Larizza, his brother-in-law, Gary Larizza, his nephews: Patrick and Sean Sullivan, Brian Peluso, and Brett Higgins and his nieces, Kerri Sue Fields (Sullivan), Molly Skundrich (Phillips), Devon Pinskey (Phillips), and Kylie Lane.

Friends will be received on Wednesday, June 17th from 10 a.m. until the time of a blessing service at 12 noon at Simpson Funeral and Cremation Services, 1119 Washington Avenue, Monaca, who was in charge of his arrangements.

Interment will follow at St. John the Baptist Catholic Cemetery, 1270 Chapel Road, Monaca.

Memorial contributions may be made in memory of Ken, if desired, to the American Cancer Society or the American Heart Association.

Carol Ann (Bonanni) Ours (1935-2026)

Carol Ann (Bonanni) Ours, 90, formerly of Patterson Heights, passed away peacefully on June 12th, 2026, at Heritage Valley Beaver.

She was born in Beaver Falls on December 6th, 1935, a daughter of the late Angelo and Eleanora (Young) Bonanni. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Philip Ours, her daughter, Tina Getz and her siblings: Claude Bonanni, Carl Bonanni, Clarence Bonanni, Clyde Bonanni, Clair Bonanni, Delores Doyle, Fern Kosloski, and Eleanor Vavro. She is survived by her children: Mary (Chris) Manolakos, Paul (Sharon) Ours, Philip Ours, and Eleanor (Richard) Scanlon; as well as her grandchildren: Sirena Ours, Jewell Ours, Kellie Scanlon, Richard Scanlon, Eric Scanlon, and Nicholas Manolakos; along with her great-grandchildren, Nash and Richard; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

Carol was a faithful member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Beaver Falls, part of St. Augustine Parish. She was also a devoted member of Patterson Heights Lady’s Auxiliary, where she enjoyed being part of her community and forming lasting friendships. She enjoyed playing bingo, reading, and playing cards. Her greatest joy, however, was her family. She was a loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose heart was fullest when surrounded by those she loved. Whether attending family gatherings, sharing stories, or simply spending time together, Carol treasured every moment with her children, grandchildren, and especially her great-grandchildren.

Her family will forever remember her kindness, her unwavering love, her gentle presence, and the way she always put family first.

Her family says: “To the nurses, CNAs, and staff at Concordia at Villa St. Joseph we cannot thank you enough for the loving care you gave to Carol. Your support during her time at the Villa meant the world to us. Your kindness and compassion have truly touched our hearts during this difficult time.”

Family and friends will be received on Thursday, June 18th, from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. at the Gabauer-Lutton Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc., 117 Blackhawk Road, Beaver Falls, who was in charge of her arrangements, and where departing prayers will be offered on Friday, June 19th at 9:30 A.M. followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 A.M. at St. Monica Catholic Church, 116 Thorndale Drive, Beaver Falls. Fr. Kim Schreck will serve as celebrant.

Interment will follow at Sylvania Hills Memorial Park, 273 PA-68, Rochester.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Concordia Villa St. Joseph Activities Department in Carol’s memory, 1030 State Street, Baden PA 15005. Carol loved taking part in the activities and treasured the many friendships she formed along the way.

Susan Kay Fennell (1966-2026)

Susan Kay Fennell, 60, of Aliquippa, passed away unexpectedly on June 14th, 2026.
She was born on February 8th, 1966, a daughter of the late Charles and Lilian Smith.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her lifelong friend, Shannon Bailey. She is survived by her loving husband of 33 years, Charles Lee Fennell; her children, Ashley (Milton) Sokolovich, Clayton Fennell (Angelina Arnold), and Ean (Brittany) Fennell; her cherished grandchildren, Leighahna, Gabriel, Brandyn, Nathaniel, Rylee, and Leo; her siblings, Eddie Smith, Lennie Prough, and Carol Stuck; her brothers-in-law, Tom (Sally) Fennell and Dan (Sheila) Fennell; as well as numerous nieces and nephews and her great-niece, Breanna Lee (Jonny) White-McDaniels.
Susan trained as a mechanic and worked in the field for 10 years before later becoming a freight forwarder at DHL. She loved her grandchildren and her dogs, and she enjoyed many years as a dedicated band parent. One of her favorite sayings was, “F.R.O.G It.” She had a strong faith in God and relied on his guidance.
A visitation will be held on Thursday, June 18th, from 4 p.m. until time of service at 6:30 p.m. at Anthony Mastrofrancesco Funeral Home Inc, 2026 McMinn Street, Aliquippa, who was in charge of her arrangements.

 

To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Susan Kay Fennell please visit the Sympathy Store of the Anothony Mastrofrancesco Funeral Home, Inc. by clicking here.

Harmon Grey Kidd, Jr. (1961-2026)

Harmon Grey Kidd, Jr., 64, of Beaver Falls, passed away surrounded by his family on June 14th, 2026, at his home.

He was born in Beaver Falls on August 4th, 1961, a son of the late Harmon G. and Donna (Myers) Kidd, Sr. He is survived by his children: Crystal (Rocky) McConnell, Harmon G. (Jennifer) Kidd III, Jennifer (Andy Talfore) Kidd, Bruce (Amanda) Wallace, Scott Kidd, Amber (David Gipson) Kidd, Sandra Kidd, Alexis Kidd, Noah Hall, Anthony Hemmingway, Charles Hemmingway, Bobby Justison, and Sherri Justison; as well as numerous grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, his sisters, Deborah (Larry) Craven, Marie (George) Banko and Connie (Donnie) Schwartz, his partner, Tamara Justison, as well as many nieces and nephews.

Harmon was a hardworking self-employed contractor. He enjoyed hiking, fishing, playing pool, his guitar and singing. He was very supportive of his family, loved his kids and hanging with his grandkids.

The family would like to thank his friend, Brenda Garrett, for the loving care and help provided to their love one.

In accordance with his wishes, there will be no funeral services.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the J&J Spratt Funeral Home, Inc., 1612 Third Avenue, New Brighton.

To send flowers or plant a memorial tree in memory, please visit the flower store of the J&J Spratt Funeral Home, Inc. by clicking here.

Martin Paul Shiring, Sr. (1936-2026)

Martin Paul Shiring, Sr., 90, of Illinois, formerly of Beaver, passed away on June 9th, 2026, in Glen Ellyn, Illinois.

He was born in Wilmerding, Pennsylvania on January 8th, 1936, a son of the late Martin Aloysius and Mary Elizabeth Shiring. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his daughter, Susan Theresa Kovalesky, his sisters, Margaret Lukehart, Isabelle Shiring and Susan Caryl Futscher and his brother, Robert Shiring.

Martin will be missed by his loving wife of 67 years, Maryetta June Baker Shiring, his sons, Daniel Baker (Mary Lou) Shiring of Canton, Ohio, Martin Paul (Carrie) Shiring Jr . of Wheaton, Illinois and Steven Patrick (Kelly) Shiring of Glastonbury, Connecticut, his son-in-law, Jeffrey Kovalesky, Collegeville, Pennsylvania, his grandchildren: Zachary (Annette) Shiring, Stephanie (Kevin) Rudder, Kristen (Ben) McGraw, Brian Shiring, Kyle (Mary Kate) Shiring, Sarah Kovalesky, Emily (Sam) Birch, Ryan (Katelyn) Shiring, Patrick (Kelly Frank) Shiring, Maura Shiring, Megan Shiring; as well as his great grandchildren: Charles Shiring, Elena Shiring, Melody McGraw, David Shiring, Emma Shiring, Sophie Shiring and numerous nephews, nieces, grand-nephews and grand-nieces.

Marty graduated from Turtle Creek High School, attended St. Vincent College and was a proud veteran of the U.S. Army. He married Maryetta June Baker Shiring on June 6th, 1959, who was not only his wife, but his best friend. He was employed by Daniel C. Baker Engineers and later the firm of Daniel C. Baker Associates, Inc., which is where he was a principal in the firm until his retirement in 1999 after 33 years. He was registered as a Professional Engineer in Pennsylvania, Ohio and West Virginia; and registered as a Land Surveyor in Pennsylvania. He was a member of the PA Society of Professional Engineers and the PA Society of Land Surveyors, as well as a member of the K. of C., Lion’s Club, and GCU of the USA. He was also an avid Pittsburgh Steeler and Pirate fan.

Friends will be received Friday, June 19th, from 3-7 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 at Sts. Peter and Paul Church, 200 Third Street, Beaver, on Saturday, June 20th at 10:30 a.m. Online condolences may be shared at www.nollfuneral.com.

The family would like to thank the staff at the Maple Glen Memory Care Community and Accord Hospice for the care and compassion they provided over the last year.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Fund for the Abramson Cancer Center at giving.apps.upenn.edu.

To send flowers or plant a memorial tree in memory, please visit our flower store.

Darlene Ann DeChellis (1937-2026)

Darlene Ann DeChellis, 88, of Center Township, passed away peacefully in her home surrounded by family, on June 10th, 2026. She was born in Freedom on December 15th, 1937, the daughter of the late Joseph L. and Margaret A. (Drumm) Wilson. She was preceded in death by her only son and greatest joy, Charles E. “Chuck” DeChellis and her brothers, William L. Wilson, Sr., Bernard J. Wilson, and John C. “Jack” Wilson, with whom she shared a lifelong bond of love and devotion and two half sisters, Patti and Elizabeth. She is survived by two half siblings, Thomas J. Wilson and Colleen Koenig, of Washington, numerous nieces, nephews, as well as dear friends, who have cared for her over the years, will mourn her loss, and remember her with love. Darlene will be thought of as a generous spirited redhead who never backed down from a challenge and who delighted in cooking, hosting gatherings, and sharing laughter with those around her. She was a graduate of Ambridge Area High School and the Community College of Beaver County, receiving an Associates Degree in Business Management. She enjoyed a varied career, including positions with Phoenix Glass, J&L Steel, Progressive Home Health – Liberati Family, UPMC Aliquippa Hospital, where she worked in the Materials Management Department. She was a member of St. Frances Cabrini Roman Catholic Church in Aliquippa, part of Mary Queen of Saints Parish. Friends are invited to gather with the family at St. Frances Cabrini Roman Catholic Church, 115 Trinity Drive, Aliquippa on Wednesday, June 17th, from 9:30am until the time of a Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. Arrangements have been entrusted to the William Murphy Funeral Home Inc., 349 Adams Street, Rochester. In lieu of flowers, the family wishes memorial contributions be made to the Saint Vincent de Paul Organization through the St. Frances Cabrini Roman Catholic Church – Mary Queen of Saints Parish.

Joseph R. Nehila (1976-2026)

Joseph R. Nehila, 50, of McGuire Memorial in Daugherty Township, passed away on June 10th, 2026.

He was born in McKeesport on February 12th, 1976, the son of the late Frances (Darke) Jaudy. In addition to his mother, he was preceded in death by a stepbrother, Timothy Fenchak. He is survived by his stepfather, Robert Jaudy, his stepsister, Bridgette Weston,  his aunts, his uncles, his cousins and his McGuire Memorial family.

Joseph will be remembered for his cheerful spirit, his kind heart and the happiness he brought to those around him. He had a remarkable ability to make people smile. He was a devoted fan of the Pittsburgh Steelers who especially enjoyed listening to Steelers games on the radio. He looked forward to game days and could often be found following every play with enthusiasm and pride for his favorite team.

Friends and family will be received on Monday, June 22nd, from 9 a.m. until 10:45 a.m. at McGuire Memorial, 2119 Mercer Road, New Brighton, where a Mass of Christian burial will follow at 11 a.m.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the J&J Spratt Funeral Home, Inc., 1612 Third Avenue, New Brighton.

Interment will follow in St. Cecilia Cemetery in Rochester.

Betty L. Hodovanich (1937-2026)

Betty L. Hodovanich, 88, of Center Township, passed away unexpectedly on June 11th, 2026. She was born on August 4th, 1937, the daughter of the late John and Mary Labasik. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved husband, John Hodovanich, and her granddaughter, Nicolina Hodovanich. She is survived by her son, John (Patty) Hodovanich, her grandchildren: Bobby, Sue (Wayne) Maxwell, Isaac, and Donna (John) Pasterik, Nathan, and Rachel; as well as many nieces and nephews, great-nieces and nephews, great-great nieces and nephews, and friends.

Betty enjoyed baking pizzelles and kiffles for the holidays, crafting flower arrangements, ceramics, and mesh wreaths. Frequent phone conversations with her nieces Charlotte and Kitty. She enjoyed reading, doing word searches, playing solitaire, and watching Hallmark movies. She passed her love of Black Friday shopping and finding the best deals on to her girls and was always ready to go at 4 A.M. She attended services at St. Frances Cabrini Church in Aliquippa, part of Mary, Queen of Saints Parish.

To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Betty L. Hodovanich please visit the Sympathy Store of the Anthony Mastrofrancesco Funeral Home, Inc. by clicking here.

A visitation will occur on Monday, June 15th from 9:30 a.m. until the time of departing prayers at 11:15 a.m. at the Anthony Mastrofrancesco Funeral Home, Inc., 2026 McMinn Street, Aliquippa, who was in charge of her arrangements.

A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 12 noon at St. Frances Cabrini Church, 115 Trinity Drive, Aliquippa. Entombment will follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery.

Dolores Jean (Leptock) Budiscak (1929-2026)

Dolores Jean (Leptock) Budiscak, 96, of New Brighton, passed away on June 9th, 2026, at Cambridge Village.

She was born in Uniontown on August 18th, 1929, the only child of the late Michael and Catherine Leptock. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Frank E. Budiscak, whom she married in 1954, her dear cousin, Betty Jane (Stanley) Starc, and Frank’s brothers and sisters, who embraced her into their large family: Mildred Budiscak, Joseph Budiscak, Barbara (Edward) Kasparek, Zora (Anthony) Kasparek, Florence (Henry) Hrabica, Anne Pauline (Joseph) Druzak, Thomas (Edith Mae) Budiscak, and James Wilson. She is survived by a sister-in-law, Helen Anne (Budiscak) Wilson, her two children, Nancy (Allen) Morrow and Brian (Carol) Budisak, along with her five grandsons: Matthew Morrow, Kyle (Rachael) Morrow, twins, Andrew and Patrick Budisak, and their brother, Joseph Budisak; as well as her twin great-granddaughters, Adelaide and Hazel Morrow. Her grandchildren meant the world to her. She is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews, as well as several cousins from her father’s family with whom she recently reconnected.

Dolores was the quintessential coal miner’s daughter who grew up in Uniontown. She and her dad moved to Beaver Falls for her to attend high school, from which she graduated in 1947. After graduation, she began working as an operator at Bell Telephone until the birth of her daughter. She was a member of the New Brighton Junior Women’s Club and the Alpha Epsilon Sorority in her younger days. She was an excellent cook and baker, and her family and friends enjoyed many meals lovingly prepared by her. She also enjoyed flower arranging and sewing. She and Frank went on many McCarter’s bus trips over the years. She especially enjoyed family vacations to her son’s beach home at the New Jersey shore. Her sharp recall and knowledge were remarkable.

The family would like to express their thanks to her niece, Judy (Hrabica) Reina, and longtime family friends, the Bolland Family, for their kindness and help over these past few years. As it takes a village, the family is grateful for her many neighbors and friends for their thoughtfulness and assistance.

In accordance with her wishes, Dolores will be cremated, and a celebration of life Mass will be held on Saturday, June 27th, at 10:30 a.m. at Holy Family Church, 521 7th Avenue, New Brighton. The family will receive friends and family from 9:30 a.m. until the time of Mass at 10:30 a.m. in the church vestibule.

A private inurnment will be held at St. Joseph Cemetery, 1501 1st Avenue, New Brighton.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations be made, in her name, to the New Brighton Historical Society, 1229 7th Avenue, New Brighton, PA 15066.