Category: Obituaries

Joyce Hall (1936-2026)

Joyce Hall, 90, of Patterson Township, passed away on October 8th, 2026, at Lakeview Personal Care Home. She was born in New Brighton on July 8th, 1936, a daughter of the late Willard Leroy and Vera Irene Staneart. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her loving husband of 62 years, William “Bill” Hall, her grandson, Christopher Wayne Hall and her sister, Delores Steinecke. She is survived by her son, Wayne Hall, a daughter and son-in-law, Janis and Mike Vinsky, her brother, Keith (Faith) Staneart, two sisters, Karen (Dennis) Fink and Lydia Clingerman, five grandchildren: Jenifer (Jason) Howe-Vachon, Cody Hall, Michael (Tawny) Vinsky, Matthew (Giselle) Vinsky, and Heather (CJ) Woods; as well as seven great-grandchildren, Jayden and Jayce Howe-Vachon, Ian and Jackson Vinsky, Noah, Cayden, and Kinsley Woods. Joyce’s life was a testament to her deep faith in her Lord, boundless love, and unyielding commitment to serving others. She was a retired Registered Nurse from the Beaver Medical Center, and her devotion to caring for people extended beyond her profession, as she was known to always be the first to offer a comforting hug. Her love for music was evident in her younger years when she taught piano and organ and sang in the church choir for over 40 years. Her voice was a melody of grace that touched all who heard it. She was a nature lover who found joy in the simplicity of life, often sitting in her sunroom, tea in hand, watching squirrels and birds play in her beloved flower garden. She was also a member of the Red Hats Society and Madame Glitter’s vibrant spirit was as colorful as the hats she wore. Her presence was a beacon of warmth and camaraderie. A visitation will be on Tuesday, October 13th from 11 a.m. until the time of service at 1 p.m. at Chippewa United Methodist Church, 2545 Darlington Road, Beaver Falls. Professional services and arrangements were entrusted to CORLESS-KUNSELMAN FUNERAL SERVICES, LLC 3801 4th Avenue, Beaver Falls. Interment will be private at Sylvania Hills Memorial Park, 273 PA-68, Rochester. The family requests that memorial donations may be made in Joyce’s name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

Antoinette “Toni” M. Kurash (1951-2026)

Antoinette “Toni” M. Kurash, 75, from Harmony Township, passed away on October 7th, 2026.

She was born on July 22nd, 1951, the daughter of the late Anthony and Mary Ann Pugliano.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, Patsy Pugliano, her brothers-in-law, Earl Ramer, Ron Ramer Sr. and Ray Kurash and her sister-in-law, Marilyn Kurash-Huber.

She is survived by her loving husband of 55 years, George Kurash, her daughters, Nicole Kurash and Janell (Jerry) Bell, her grandchildren, Anthony Crawford, Savannah “Vee” Bell and Talan Bell, her brother-in-law, Ken Kurash, her sisters-in-law, Deb Ramer and Gloria Walker, her special cousin, Larry Branchetti and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Antoinette loved sports, especially Steelers football. She was a dedicated volunteer at St. Mary’s during Pirohy season. She enjoyed anything that involved her family, especially hosting Sunday dinners and being at camp. She was an incredibly strong woman who beat the odds many times over the last 10 months. She was loyal and loving. Above all else, she loved her family endlessly, especially her 3 grandchildren. She never missed an event or game they had. She was a wife, mother, and grandmother and the traditions she taught and the love she gave will live with her family forever. She was surrounded by love this past year. The family and friends that loved and supported her will never be forgotten. They would also like to thank Dr. Candice Lee, the staff at Allegheny General Hospital and the staff at PAM Health in Beaver.

A visitation will be held from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Sunday, October 11th at Alvarez-Hahn Funeral Services and Cremation LLC, 547 8th Street, Ambridge, who was in charge of her arrangements. A Panachiea service will take place at the funeral home at 10:15 a.m. on Monday, October 12th followed by funeral service at 11 a.m. at Saint Mary’s Byzantine Catholic Church, 624 Park Road, Ambridge. Her burial will be at Saints Peter and Paul Cemetery in Economy.

Jenica Lynn Berk (1983-2026)

Jenica Lynn Berk, 43, of Seven Fields, passed away unexpectedly at her home on October 8th, 2026.

She was born in Brighton Township on March 26th, 1983, a daughter of Janet Smith and the late James Berk.

Jenica received her MBA from Drexel University as well as a Doctorate in Pharmacy and a Juris Doctorate from Duquesne University. She worked as a pharmacist at Accredo Specialty Pharmacy. Jenica led the pharmacy department for the Mission of Mercy in Pittsburgh yearly.

In addition to her mother, she is survived by her sisters, Jill (Patrick) Heaney and Jewel (Jared) Casciato, a stepbrother, Jeb (Debbie) Berk, her niece and nephews, Ryan Heaney, Miranda Berk, and Logan Berk, an uncle, Michael Smith, as well as extended family and friends.

In addition to her father, she was preceded in death by her maternal grandparents, CW and Lillie Smith, her paternal grandparents, Eugene and Elsie Berk and an uncle, Lee Smith.

Friends will be received on Tuesday, October 13th 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.

A funeral service will be held in the funeral home chapel on Wednesday, October 14th at 11 A.M. with Deacon Tom Turney officiating.

Interment will be in Grandview Cemetery, 139 Norwood Drive, Beaver Falls.

Rolland Peterson (1943-2026)

Rolland Peterson, 83, of Economy Borough, passed away on October 6th, 2026, in Concordia at Villa St. Joseph.

He was born in Sewickley on April 12th, 1943, a son of the late Albert and Pauline Delach Peterson.

Rolland was a retiree of TWA/American Airlines, a lifelong car enthusiast, and mechanic.

He is survived by his sister, Margaret Semonik of Ambridge, his brothers, Neal (Sue) Peterson of Connecticut and Lloyd Peterson of Ambridge, along with many nieces & nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Roberta Peterson.

Rolland will be transported to Chicago to be buried beside his beloved wife, Roberta.

According to the John Syka Funeral Home, Inc.’s website, services for Rolland will be set for a future date to be determined.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the John Syka Funeral Home, Inc., 833 Kennedy Drive, Ambridge.

In Lieu of flowers, the family asks donations to be made to the Wounded Warriors Project.

Joseph “Joe” Edward Hamilton (1942-2026)

Joseph “Joe” Edward Hamilton, 84, of Chippewa Township, passed away peacefully on October 6th, 2026, at St. Barnabas Beaver Meadows, surrounded by family.

He was born in Reynoldsville on January 17th, 1942, a son of the late Joseph and Lulu (Ecklund) Hamilton.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his siblings, Druzilla (John) Wilson and James (Kitty) Hamilton.

He is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Barbara (Cascio) Hamilton, his daughter, Teresa “Terri” (Dave) Butcher, his son, Joe Jr. (Debbie) Hamilton, his grandchildren: DJ Butcher, Marissa Butcher, Allie (Brent) Perry, Kara (Chad Bovalina, fiance) Hamilton, Hailey Hamilton, Andrea Hamilton; as well as his brother, Gary (Nancy) Hamilton, numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

Joseph’s passions in life could be summed up by his “3 Fs”: Faith, Family, and Football. His faith was a very important part of his life. He was a member of the St. Monica Church in Beaver Falls, part of St Augustine Parish. His family was his true joy, and the love and pride he had for them were evident to everyone who knew him. And Joe loved football. Joe was affectionately known as “Coach” spending his career as a high school teacher and football coach. He was blessed with the opportunity to serve as a head coach for 49 years, coaching at Midland, New Brighton, Hempfield, and Blackhawk. While each school held a special place in his heart, Blackhawk became his absolute love and home where he spent the final 39 years of his coaching career. Joe’s legacy will live on not only through his family but also through the countless young men and women he taught and coached over nearly 5 decades.

Despite all of his coaching accomplishments and accolades, when he retired and was asked in an interview what he wanted to be remembered for, his answer was simple: “That I was a good guy.” Those words perhaps captured him better than any list of victories, awards, or accomplishments ever could. He wanted to be remembered for how he treated people, for the lives he touched, the young men and women he encouraged, the friendships he built, and the love he gave so freely to his family and those around him. And to the many people fortunate enough to know him, Joe was exactly that: a good guy.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at St. Barnabas Beaver Meadows for the tremendous love, compassion, and care they provided to “Coach”.

Friends will be received on Sunday, October 11th from 1-5 P.M. and on Monday, October 12th from 2-4 P.M. and 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 Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, October 13th at 11 A.M .at St. Monica Church, 116 Thorndale Drive, Beaver Falls. Fr. Kim Schreck will serve as celebrant.

Interment will follow in Beaver Cemetery, Buffalo Street, Beaver.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the “Blackhawk QB Club” in honor of Joe Hamilton for support of scholarships given and the football program. Checks can be mailed to the Blackhawk High School Athletic Department at 500 Blackhawk Road, Beaver Falls, PA 15010 or Venmo to Blackhawk QB Club @blackhawkfootball1.

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

John A. Filby, Jr. (1953-2026)

John A. Filby Jr., 73, of Big Beaver, passed away on September 25th, 2026, in Brighton Rehabilitation and Wellness Center.

He was born in Waynesburg on February 8th, 1953, the son of the late John A. Sr. and Billie Jean (Bishop) Filby.

John graduated from Beaver Falls High School in 1971. He attended the University of Pittsburgh and played trumpet in the marching band. He was a member of the College Hill Presbyterian Church and was a wedding photographer. He was a chemical analyst at Armco Steel in Ambridge. He was known to love dogs, wedding cookie tables (or any dessert), and his grandchildren.

He is survived by his daughter, Jill (Jeff) Moroski of South Abington Township, Pennsylvania, his son, John A. III (Alysha) Filby of Beaver Falls, five grandchildren: Paige and Ben Moroski, and Elisabeth, Margaret, and Catherine Filby; as well as his sister, Barbara (Jimmy) Sneed of New Castle, Deleware.

A memorial visitation will be held on Saturday, October 10th from 10 A.M. until the time of service at 12 noon at CORLESS-KUNSELMAN FUNERAL SERVICES, LLC, 3801 4th Avenue, Beaver Falls, who was in charge of his arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that any donations be made in John’s name to the Beaver County Humane Society, 3394 Brodhead Road, Aliquippa, PA 15001.

Jesse S. Janosik (1950-2026)

Jesse S. Janosik, 76, of New Brighton, passed away quietly at his home, on October 1st, 2026.

He was born in New Brighton on June 22nd, 1950, the son of the late Steven and Laura Janosik.

He was a graduate of New Brighton High School and was a proud U.S. Army Veteran who served in the Vietnam War.

A Memorial Service for Jesse will be announced at a later date.

Professional Arrangements have been entrusted to the Noll Funeral Home Inc., 333 Third Street, Beaver PA, 15009.

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

Thomas Lee Stickel (Passed on October 4th, 2026)

Thomas Lee Stickel, 76, passed away on October 4th, 2026, surrounded by his family. He was born in Beaver Falls, the son of Fay M. Stickel and the late Thomas C. Stickel. Thomas was a graduate of Beaver High School and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Tarkio College in Tarkio, Missouri. He went on to earn his Juris Doctor from Cleveland State University and spent many years practicing law in Columbiana and Beaver counties. Some of his happiest times were spent with family and friends at his favorite place, Emerald Isle, North Carolina. He was introduced to windsurfing by his son-in-law, Tamer, and quickly became an avid windsurfer. He also loved water-skiing and boating with family and friends on the Ohio River. Whether he was on the water or simply spending time with the people he loved, he knew how to enjoy life. He will be remembered for his great sense of humor and a laugh that could fill the room. He was hard-working, generous and sensitive, and was always willing to lend a hand to someone in need. Above all, he loved his family deeply and treasured the time he spent with them. His warmth, humor and generosity will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. He is survived by his devoted wife and soulmate of 46 years, Betty Stickel, his daughter, Heather Yalcinkaya, and her husband, Tamer, and their children, Selin, Berk, Derin and Melodi, his daughter, Richelle Hoy, and her husband, Chris, and their children, Kirsten and Claire; and his sister, Nancy Hall. A private service to honor Thomas’ life will be held at a later date. Arrangements have been entrusted to Simpson Funeral and Cremation Services, 1119 Washington Avenue, Monaca. Donations in his honor can be made to the local charity Communicycle at Communicycle.org or to the American Cancer Society. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Thomas, please visit the floral store of the Noll Funeral Home, Inc. by clicking here.

Dr. Bruce Michael Warnes (1952-2026)

Dr. Bruce Michael Warnes, 74, of Beaver, left this life on October 5th, 2026, while at home with his wife, Marjory, by his side. He was born April 2nd, 1952, at 1:15 a.m. to Don and Pauline Warnes—an hour and 15 minutes delayed to share a birthday with his mother, who joked for years about her late birthday present!

After graduating from Beaver High School in 1970, Dr. Bruce earned degrees in materials science and metallurgy from Penn State University in 1973, 1980, and 1983. In 1990, he earned his doctorate in metallurgical engineering from the University of Pittsburgh.

He was fascinated by how things work—and often, figured out how to make them work better. This curiosity led to an illustrative career in the aerospace industry, first at Howmet in Whitehall, Michigan, and later as an independent consultant. Bruce was an inventor on over two dozen patents and routinely presented his research at national and international conferences.

Outside of work, he played softball, volunteered as a Boy Scout leader, and served as president of the congregation for five years at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in Beaver, Pennsylvania. He also was a talented artist who enjoyed oil painting, drawing, and creating stained glass. He was an avid reader who enjoyed reading about American history, preferably oceanside in Vero Beach, Florida, where he married Marjory in 1986.

For years, Bruce spoke about his dream of owning a pinball machine—which came true in 2008 when he purchased his first game. One machine eventually became a dozen, creating a private collection that brought him enormous pleasure and ensured that his love of pinball would be passed along to his children and grandchildren.

His children remember him for sharing his love of science and how things work, the outdoors, and music … particularly organ music. They share many fond memories of exploring the outdoors with him, including a memorable hike in Elk State Forest in Pennsylvania that lasted far longer and was further ranging than anyone expected.

He is survived by his wife of forty years, Marjory, three children, Melanie (Kevin) Peffer of Greeley, Colorado, John Warnes of Beaver and Jeffrey (Kayla) Warnes of Beaver, four grandchildren, Felix and Jasper Peffer and Ember and Onyx Warnes, two sisters, Susan Seyboth of Windsor, Connecticut, and Lucinda Schwarz of Beaver and his beloved sister-in-law, “Mary Sue” (Suzy) Burgess.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Pauline and Don Warnes.

In lieu of flowers, Dr. Bruce’s family is requesting for memorial contributions to be made to the Jules B. Puschett Research Endowment at the University of Pittsburgh in support of kidney research. The donation page can be found at dom.pitt.edu/renal/giving/.

A celebration of life will be held at 4 p.m. on Friday, November 6th, at the Beaver Pool House, 700 Buffalo Street in Beaver with a private interment at the Beaver Cemetery, Buffalo Street, Beaver.

The Noll Funeral Home, Inc, 333 Third Street, Beaver is managing his arrangements.

Online condolences can be shared at nollfuneral.com.

The family would like to thank all of Dr. Bruce’s caregivers at UPMC Shadyside Hospital, Fresenius Kidney Care, and EnHabit Home Health for their care and compassion during Bruce’s long illness.

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

Timothy J. “TJ” Johnson (1955-2026)

Timothy J. “TJ” Johnson, 70, of Pittsburgh, passed away on October 3rd, 2026 at Canterberry Place in Pittsburgh.

He was born in Titusville on November 11th, 1955, a son of the late Joseph and Mary (McIntyre) Johnson.

Timothy proudly served his country as a veteran of the United States Navy. He was a proud member of the International Union of Elevator Constructors (IUEC) Local 6, where he was well known and respected by his fellow members throughout his years of service. He was a true outdoorsman who loved trapping, hunting, fishing, and riding whenever he had the chance. He was a jack of all trades who could seemingly fix, build, or figure out just about anything, and he was especially gifted when it came to gardening, having an incredible green thumb. Above all, he was a devoted father and grandfather who treasured spending time with his children and grandchildren. His family was his greatest joy, and the memories they made together will always hold a special place in their hearts.

He is survived by his wife, Judith (Wagner) Johnson, his children, Andrew (Andrea) Johnson and Katrina (Jack) Balser, his grandchildren, Travis and Riley Johnson, his brother, Dave Johnson, along with numerous extended family and friends.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his siblings, Joe, Sue and Becky.

Friends will received on Saturday, October 10th from 1 P.M. until the time of military honors at 4 P.M. in the GABAUER-LUTTON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, Inc., 117 Blackhawk Road, Beaver Falls, who was in charge of his arrangements.

Private interment will take place at Woodlawn Cemetery, 892 W Spring Street, Titusville, PA 16354.

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