Category: Obituaries

Lane E. Echement, Sr. (1951-2026)

Lane E. Echement, Sr., 74, of Monaca, passed away peacefully on September 7th, 2026. He was born on October 30th, 1951, a son of the late Shirley and Leo Echement.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Marge Echement, his brothers, Butch and Leo Jr. Echement; and his sister, Sue Urban.

He is survived by his son, Lane (Karen) Echement Jr., his brother, Chauce (Joanne) Echement, his two granddaughters, Jessica (Ryan) Blackwood and Kali (Mike) Powell, his nieces and nephews: Kathy Rivera, Johnny Echement, Loretta (Harry) Kirkwood, Tina Echement, Bill Mccollim, and Anthony Montagna Sr.; as well as seven great-grandchildren: Nicholas, Jacob, Emma, Mia, Bradley, Daniel, and Kinsley; along with his special great nieces and great nephews: Mitchell, Shane, Allie, Reagan, and Anthony Jr. and numerous friends.

Lane worked as a warehouse manager at Ambridge Regional Center, where he dedicated more than 30 years of service before retiring. He loved spending time at the camp he built in Clarion, where he would spend three weeks out of each month. He enjoyed hunting, being outdoors, Backwoods Honey Berry Cigars, and a cold Coors Light. He also had a love for classic cars and proudly owned a 1968 Ford Mustang. He and his wife were members of the Cruzn Few Car Club. Most of all, he cherished the time he spent with his family and the memories they made together.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, September 12th from 12 noon until the time of the funeral service at 4 p.m., at Alvarez-Hahn Funeral Services and Cremation, LLC, 547 8th Street, Ambridge, who was in charge of his arrangements.

Melvin Dean Osman, Sr. (1936-2026)

Melvin Dean Osman, Sr., 89, of Rochester Township, passed away on September 6th, 2026 in his home.

He was born in Vanport on December 23rd, 1936, a son of the late George and Mary Osman.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by 6 siblings: Albert, George, Robert and Calvin Osman, Betty Burckure and Janet Usselman.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 66 years, Lydia Osman, two children, Melvin & Deborah Osman Jr. and Debra & Greg Winich, three grandchildren, Melvin & Amber Osman III, Victoria & Steve Mann and Michael & Mary Osman, four great grandchildren: Melvin IV, Beau, Johnny, and Barron; as well as a great granddaughter, Esther Joy on the way, and a sister, Peg Usselman.

Melvin was a retired steelworker with Union Drawn Steel in Beaver Falls and was a US Marine Veteran. He was an active member of Aliquippa Christian Assembly.  He was a very faithful man who was a volunteer minister at the Beaver County Jail. He enjoyed camping and fishing with his family at Lake Wilhelm, and loved to take care of his home and yard.  Mel lived his life with a smile on his face and serving, doing and loving well.

Friends will be received on Friday, September 11th from 12 Noon until the time of a Funeral Service at 3 p.m. in the Huntsman Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Aliquippa, 2345 Mill Street, Aliquippa, who was in charge of his arrangements.

The members of the Beaver County Special Unit will conduct Military Honors immediately after the funeral in the funeral home.

Michael “Mike” James Romigh (1958-2026)

Michael “Mike” James Romigh, 67, of Koppel, passed away peacefully on September 5, 2026, at UPMC Shadyside, Pittsburgh, surrounded by his loving family.

He was born in Beaver Falls on September 17th, 1958, a son of the late Howard James “Jim” Romigh, Jr., and Ellen Lenore Romigh Dodson.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his grandparents, a daughter, Hope, his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Harry and Mary Hawrylak, his sisters-in-law, Rosemary Tracy and Sister M. Patricia Hawrylak, SHS, his brothers-in-law, Joseph Omogrosso and Robert Idzojtic and a nephew, Bradley Grinnen.

He is survived by the love of his life and wife of 46 years, Julienne, his daughter, Lindsay (Dexter) Aley, his son, Dylan (Tonya) Romigh and his beloved grandchildren: Aiden, Rowan, Ryleigh, and Iris; as well as his siblings: Diane Romigh, MaryEllen (Ken) Brewer, Chris Romigh, Bob (Traci) Romigh, Molly (Kelly) Edel-Romigh; along with his brother-in-law, Larry Tracy, his sister-in-law, Joanne (Tim) Sberna, his step-father, Frank (Anna) Dodson, along with many nieces, nephews, and cherished friends.

Mike was born and raised in Beaver Falls, and grew up there. He currently resided in the borough of Koppel. After working at Hydril in Rochester for four years after graduating from high school, he felt those radio waves that he dreamed about as a youngster, calling him again. He enrolled in a correspondence course offered by the Columbia School Of Broadcasting in Pittsburgh. After completing the training, he landed his first radio job at WFEM in Ellwood City in 1981.

He wouldn’t stay in Ellwood City long. That same year, he was hired by WBVP and WWKS, Kiss 106.7 FM. Initially, he hosted an overnight music show on both radio stations. WBVP was a live radio program, and WWKS featured the recorded voice. His big break came in 1983, when Dave Felts, who was hosting the morning talk show, “A.M. Connection” on WBVP went on Vacation. The temporary fill in duty went so well that Mike was asked to do the entire week. Soon, Mike was a regular host of “A.M. Connection” at WBVP. After leaving WBVP and WWKS in 1985, Mike took his talents  to WMBA and hosted a talk show initially called “Straight Talk,” later to be renamed “Live Mike.”

Around 1987, Mike was hired by KDKA to do weekends and part time fill in work. For a while, he worked at both WMBA and KDKA. However, in 1990, he began to work on a regular basis at KDKA and had to drop WMBA from his hectic schedule. He became the regular host of the evening shift at KDKA for about 10 years and afterwards, crossed state lines and hosted the morning show on top rated Youngstown radio station, WKBN in 2008.

Mike’s career came full circle when he returned to WBVP and WMBA, again from 2014 to 2017. He brought back the popular “Teleforum” talk show name, and served as Program Director. In early 2017, Mike left Beaver County Radio and went to work fundraising for the Beaver County Humane Society. Mike attempted to retire in 2020, but that only lasted for a short time, as he worked part-time for the Humane Society Thrift Store. In late 2022, new Beaver County Radio General Manager, Frank Sparks, approached Mike about returning to the airwaves to host a daily show. In January 2022, “Live Mic” returned to the Beaver County Airwaves.

Mike returned to Beaver County Radio in early 2022 to host “Live Mic” weekdays from 6:30 A.M. to 9 A.M. He then stepped away in August of 2024 to spend more time with his family and enjoy retirement. At that time, he continued to host “The Best Of Beaver County” on Thursday mornings. When the stations returned to a simulcast format in early 2025, Mike came back and hosted “Live Mic” once again from 10 A.M. to 12 Noon on weekdays. Mike then stepped away in September of 2025 due to his ongoing health issues.

Mike’s family wishes to thank the nurses and staff of 6 West Bone Marrow Transplant floor as well as all the generous blood and platelet donors who sustained him through his courageous battle with Myelodysplastic Syndrome and Stem Cell Transplant.

Friends will be received on Thursday, September 10th from 2-4 P.M. and 6-8 P.M. in the GABAUER-LUTTON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, INC., Chippewa Township, 117 Blackhawk Road, Beaver Falls, who was in charge of his arrangements.

Departing prayers will be offered in the funeral home on Friday, September 11th at 9:30 A.M. followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30 A.M. at Holy Redeemer Church, 415 4th Street, Ellwood City.

Interment will be in St. Joseph Cemetery, 1501 1st Avenue, New Brighton.

To send flowers or plant a memorial tree in memory, please visit the flower store of the GABAUER-LUTTON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, INC. by clicking here.

Julia Smelko (1921-2026)

Julia Smelko, 105, of Baden, formerly of Conway, passed away on September 6th, 2026, at Concordia Villa Saint Joseph, with loving family by her side.

She was born in Girard, Ohio, on July 22nd, 1921, a daughter of the late John and Eva (Petrucci) Sabino.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her first husband, Joseph Guarnieri, her second husband, Albert Smelko, her daughter, Judy (Edward) Keller, her granddaughter, Carleen Keller and her siblings: Tony, Mary, Jenny, Elmer, and Joe.

She is survived by her grandchildren, Ed (Colleen) Keller and Jason Keller, three great-grandchildren, Zack (Paige), Mackenzie (Derek), and Chloe (Caleb), seven great-great-grandchildren: Maxton, Parker, Harper, Frankie, Stella, Melah, and Baker; as well as her stepchildren, Rick (Vicki)Smelko and Danny (Marilyn) Smelko, her step-grandchildren, Jeff Smelko and Neil Smelko, along with many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Julia was a proud member of 3 great local organizations: Conway Civic Women’s Club, the Christian Mothers of Our Lady of Peace Church, and Conway Senior Citizens. She was also an avid bowler who loved to travel.

Family and friends are welcome to gather for a visitation on Tuesday, September 8th from 3-7 P.M., in the John Syka Funeral Home, Inc., 833 Kennedy Drive, Ambridge, who was in charge of her arrangements, and where a Blessing Service will be held on Wednesday, September 9th at 10 A.M. Interment will follow in Calvary Cemetery, 1101 9th Street Extension, Freedom.

The family of Julia would like to thank Concordia Villa Saint Joseph and The Good Samaritan Hospice for all that they did for her

Christopher Joseph “Vid” Vidovich (1976-2026)

Christopher Joseph “Vid” Vidovich, 50, of Independence Township, passed away unexpectedly on September 1st, 2026 in his home.

He was born in Aliquippa on March 22nd, 1976, the son of Veda Vidovich and the late Joseph Henry Vidovich.

In addition to his mother, he is survived by two sisters, Jennifer Lynn (Chris Hreha) & Toni Marie, a niece, Kyleigh, his nephew, Chase, his great nieces and nephew: Avery, Makayla, Madison, & Grayson; along with his caregiver and friend, Dave Kurchina, a special cousin, Marissa, as well as his aunts, uncles and many cousins. He is also survived by his pets, Karma and Jabbers.

Christopher was a 1994 graduate of Hopewell High School. He was a US Air Force veteran serving in Iraq as a crew chief. He was stationed at Tyndall Air Force Base in Panama City, Florida from 2001 until the time of his accident in 2008. He was involved in a motorcycle accident that paralyzed him and changed the course of his life. He then moved back to Pennsylvania to be closer to his family.

Friends will be received on Thursday, September 10th from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. in the Huntsman Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Aliquippa, 2345 Mill Street,
Aliquippa, who was in charge of his arrangements. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, September 11th at 10 a.m. in St. Titus Church, 952 Franklin Avenue, Aliquippa.

The members of the Beaver County Special Unit will conduct Military Honors at the Church.

James Curtis “JC” Summers (1971-2026)

James Curtis “JC” Summers, 55, of South Beaver Township, passed away on September 4th, 2026, at UPMC Shadyside, Pittsburgh.

He was born in Rochester on March 18th, 1971, the son of Loretta (Raines) Summers and the late James D. “Jim” Summers.

In addition to his mother, he is survived by his wife, Jill (Hall) Summers; son, Tyler (Brooke Tomasko) Summers, his daughter, Tesa Summers, his sister, Natalie (Shawn) Stone, his niece, Madalyn Ollis, his nephew, Lane Ollis, his in-laws, Terry (Christine) Hall, Brent Hall, an aunt, Mary Ellen Dean, his special friends, Tina McKenna and her children, Mark and Hannah, Keith (Amy) Pamer and their children, Haylee and Emma, Dr. Morris (Beth) Book, his canine companions, B and Bo; as well as many close extended family members and friends.

In addition to his father, he was preceded in death by a special friend, Chris McKenna.

James was a former physical education teacher. He also was a football coach where he dedicated many years to teaching, mentoring, and encouraging young people. He later became the proud owner and operator of The Butcher and The Baker in Darlington, where his talents as a skilled butcher flourished and he took great pride in providing quality meats to the community.

He was a man of deep faith who attended Pathway Church in Beaver Falls and Fairview Reformed Presbyterian Church in Industry, and his relationship with the Lord remained at the center of his life. He was an avid outdoorsman who treasured every opportunity to be in the woods, especially while hunting. He also had a passion for cooking and found great joy in preparing meals and sharing them with the people he loved. Above all, he will be remembered for his generous heart and willingness to help others. He was the kind of man who would truly give the shirt off his back to someone in need. His compassion extended to everyone, and over the years, he opened not only his home but also his heart to others who needed guidance, encouragement, or simply a place where they felt welcomed and cared for. His faith, generosity, and genuine concern for others left a lasting impression on countless lives.

Friends will be received on Wednesday, September 9th from 2-4 P.M. & 6-8 P.M. in the GABAUER-LUTTON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, INC., 117 Blackhawk Road, Beaver Falls, who was in charge of his arrangements.

A funeral service will be held on Thursday, September 10th at 11 A.M. at Pathway Church, 239 Braun Road, Beaver Falls, PA 15010 with Pastor Richard Raines officiating. Friends may call at the church one hour prior to services.

Private interment will be in Oak Grove Cemetery, 1101 9th St Extension, Freedom.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to Blackhawk School District’s Middle and High School football programs.

James’ family wishes to extend a heartfelt “Thank you” to the doctors and staff of UPMC Shadyside for their genuine care.

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

Joanne E. (Miller) Lerini (1947-2026)

Joanne E. (Miller) Lerini, 78, of Hopewell, passed away peacefully on September 4th, 2026 surrounded by her loving family.

She was born in New Brighton on November 15th, 1947, the daughter of the late David C. and Estella Miller.

In addition to her parents, she was also preceded in death by her beloved husband, Alberto Lerini.

She is survived by her devoted family: Teresa (Tim) Dietz, Rosanna Lerini, Albert Lerini, and Joseph Lerini; as well as two granddaughters, Alexandra and Elizabeth Dietz, whom she adored and treasured spending time with, her brother and sister-in-law, David and Adele Miller, her sister and brother-in-law, Susan and Rev. Peter Stazen, numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews and her cherished cat, Vanessa.

Joanne was a graduate of Aliquippa High School (’65) and Edinboro University (’69), which was where she earned her Batchelor’s degree in Education. She was also member of Mary Queen of Saints Parish and St. Titus Church in Aliquippa, and was deeply devoted to her Catholic faith. She spent many hours reading the Bible and handwriting each page to deepen her understanding of every chapter. She enjoyed crossword puzzles, reading, crocheting keepsakes for family and friends, and the Aliquippa Marching Band, where she played clarinet many years ago.

In her earlier years, she taught in the Aliquippa and Freedom school districts. She later worked for Gladieux Corporation in Inflight Services.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, September 9th from 4-7 p.m. at Anthony Mastrofrancesco Funeral Home Inc., 2026 McMinn Street, Aliquippa, who was in charge of her arrangements, and where departing prayers will begin at 9:30 a.m. on Thursday, September 10th, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 a.m. at St. Titus Church, 952 Franklin Avenue, Aliquippa. Entombment will follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, 2186 Brodhead Road, Aliquippa.

Joanne will be remembered for the love she shared with family and friends, her kindness to those around her, and the memories that will bring comfort to all who knew her.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made, if desired, to B.F. Jones Library, 663 Franklin Avenue, Aliquippa, PA 15001 or the Aliquippa Marching Band in Joanne’s memory.

To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Joanne (Miller) Lerini please visit the Sympathy Store of the Anthony Mastrofrancesco Funeral Home Inc. by clicking here.

Patricia Ann Staub (Passed on September 5th, 2026)

Patricia Ann Staub, 96, a lifelong resident of Monaca, passed away on September 5th, 2026, at Good Samaritan Hospice House in Wexford.

She was born and raised in Monaca and was a daughter of the late Daniel James and Elizabeth Ann Liston.

Patricia graduated from Monaca High School, carrying with her the values of hard work, faith, and family that would guide her throughout her life.

She married the love of her life, Charles J. Staub, at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Beaver on June 30, 1951. Their marriage was a lasting partnership built on love, commitment, and shared devotion. Charles preceded her in death.

In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by her beloved granddaughter, Kelley Rhodes Hope, her sister, Margaret Ullicny and her brother, Daniel J. Liston, Jr., and Bernice.

She is survived by her four children: Timothy J. Staub and his wife, Robin, Gail Ann Rhodes and her fiancée, Gary, Beth McCreary and her husband, Charles, all of Monaca, and Charles C. Staub of Old Town, Florida; as well as her grandchildren, Shawn (Denise) McCreary, Scott McCreary, Shannon (Michael) Noonan, Rachel Staub and Kurtis, all of Monaca, and Amanda Staub and Andrew of Iowa City, Iowa; along with ten grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild, each of whom brought her great pride and happiness, as well as her cousin, Judy (Tom) Frazer and her brother-in-law, Edward (Pat) Staub.

Patricia devoted the majority of her life to her home and family as a homemaker, a role she embraced with pride and grace. She also worked for a few years as a school crossing guard.

Faith was an important part of her life. She was a member of Mary, Queen of Saints Parish, St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Monaca and the Christian Mothers. She also gave generously of her time and energy to civic and community organizations. She was a member and three-term past president of the Monaca American Legion Post #580 Auxiliary and held numerous offices in the organization over the years. She was also a former member of the Monaca No. 4 Volunteer Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary and she previously volunteered at the Beaver Valley Geriatric Center’s Crimson Line Auxiliary. She was also a former member of the Monaca Senior Citizens Center. She was an avid reader and especially enjoyed visiting the Monaca Library. She also liked playing cards and taking walks, pastimes that reflected her appreciation for companionship, conversation, and the world around her.

The family will receive friends on Tuesday, September 8th from 4-8 p.m. at SIMPSON FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES, 1119 Washington Avenue, Monaca, who was in charge of her arrangements, and where departing prayers will be offered on Wednesday, September 9th at 9:30 a.m. A Mass of Christian burial will follow at 10 a.m. at St John the Baptist Catholic Church, 1409 Pennsylvania Avenue, Monaca. Private family interment will take place in Beaver Cemetery.

The family wishes to extend their sincere appreciation to the nursing staff of AHN Heritage Valley, Beaver’s Tower #3unit and especially the staff of Good Samaritan Hospice for the loving and compassionate care their mother received while under their care.

In lieu of flower, the family has suggested those wishing to make a memorial contribution in Pat’s memory to please consider a dementia or Alzheimer’s related charity.

To leave a online condolence, please visit www.simpsonfuneralhome.com.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Patricia, please visit the floral store of Simpson Funeral and Cremation Services by clicking here.

Wilber Leroy “Skip” Morgan (1940-2026)

Wilber Leroy “Skip” Morgan, 85, of Darlington, passed away on September 4th, 2026.

He was born in Beaver Falls on September 29th, 1940, the son of the late Marcella Noufer.

In addition to his mother, he was preceded in death by a sister, Bobbie Noufer.

He is survived by his children, Lisa Morgan and Scott Morgan, his sisters, Jeannie Giansante and Barbara Noufer, and his nieces and nephews.

Wilber’s early years in Beaver Falls were filled with industrious pursuits, shaping him into a hardworking man who held a lifelong career as a laborer.

He spent 56 years working in the mill.

His work ethic was unparalleled, and he took great pride in his contributions to his community.

In accordance with his wishes, all services were private.

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

Skip will be remembered for his love of the outdoors and bird watching, his interest in classic cars and car cruises, his green thumb, and his remarkable ability to excel at anything and everything he did.

Eleanor Jean Govel (1929-2026)

Eleanor Jean Govel, 97, of Hopewell Township, passed away on September 3rd, 2026 leaving behind a legacy of love, devotion, and quiet strength.

She was born in Aliquippa on September 1st, 1929, the beloved daughter of Michael Barron and Eleanor Nalepa Barron.

Eleanor was the firstborn of three children who grew up alongside her two younger brothers, the late Robert Barron and Richard Barron of Santa Ana, California. She became affectionately known to many as Jean because she shared her first name with her mother,  a name that reflected the warmth and familiarity with which family and friends held her. She was a 1947 graduate of Hopewell High School continued her education at Robert Morris Business School in downtown Pittsburgh, which was where she developed the professional skills that would serve her well throughout her early career. She became an accomplished typist and short-handed stenographer.

From the ages of 19 to 29, Jean worked as a secretary in the Safety Department at J&L Steel. In that role, she not only provided essential administrative support but also carried out meaningful duties that reflected her compassion, visiting families of injured steel mill workers and offering care during difficult times.

Throughout her life, she continued to use her sharp office skills in various part-time secretarial positions, always bringing dependability, organization, and pride to her work. She found joy at home in the familiar comforts of everyday life. She enjoyed playing pinochle, a game that brought laughter, conversation, and friendly competition to the table. She was also known for her baking, the warmth of her kitchen, and the care she put into making things for the people she loved. She found quiet satisfaction in knitting and working in her yard, where she tended to her home with patience and dedication. In 1952, she married Edward John Govel, who also worked at and later retired from J&L Steel. Together, they built a home in Hopewell Township, where they created a life centered on family, comfort, and love. It was there that they raised their two children, Grant and Lynn, and enjoyed the simple blessings of home and togetherness.

She was also blessed with two grandchildren, Grant Dorian and Carli, who live in California with her son, Grant and his wife of 26 years, Linda. Her daughter, Lynn, lives locally and remains close to her mother, whose presence will be sadly missed. She will be remembered with deep affection by her family, including her children, grandchildren, her brother, Richard, her nieces and nephews, sisters-in-law, and all who were fortunate to know her. Her life was marked by steadfast devotion, kindness, and a gentle spirit that touched those around her.

The family wishes to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who knew Eleanor and to all who helped with her care during her brief stay at Concordia at Villa St. Joseph in Baden.

They are especially grateful to the wonderful staff of the Carondelet Unit for the kindness, compassion, and attentive care they provided to Jean and her family during those months.
Family and friends are welcome to attend a Mass of Christian Burial on Saturday, September 5th at 9:30 a.m. at Our Lady of Fatima Church, 2270 Brodhead Road, Aliquippa.
Private interment will take place at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, 2186 Brodhead Road, Aliquippa.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Anthony Mastrofrancesco Funeral Home, Inc., 2026 McMinn Street, Aliquippa.

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