Category: Obituaries

Bud G. Gingerella III (1960-2026)

Bud G. Gingerella III, 66, of Freedom, passed away on April 8, 2026. He was the beloved son of the late Sonia and Bud Gingerella Jr.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sisters, Barb Hoffman and Helen Gingerella.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 25 years, Heidi Gingerella; his children, Ben (Cara) Gingerella, Brittany Gingerella, Brett Gingerella, Bradon Gingerella, Dawson Gingerella, and Dakota Gingerella; and his siblings, Fran Troutman and Georgann Keener.

Bud was a proud graduate of Western Beaver High School. He later attended optician school and dedicated many years of service to Eye Glass World. His true passion, however, was music. He owned and operated S&B Karaoke, where he was affectionately known as “Bud Man.” He also enjoyed playing poker and was an avid fan of Pittsburgh sports. Bud had a special affection for animals, especially his beloved squirrel, Sammy.

He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Services are private.

Charles M. “Mike” Hurst (1950-2026)

Charles Michael “Mike” Hurst, 76, of Chippewa Township, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at Celebration Villa of Chippewa.
Born on March 21, 1950, he was the son of the late Charles Richard and Patricia Katherine (Huth) Hurst.
Mike’s dedication to law enforcement spanned over forty years, beginning with his service in the U.S. Border Patrol. He later returned to Beaver County, where he married Cindy and they started their family. He eventually retired from both the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission and the Beaver County Sheriff’s Office after over thirty-five years of service. During his tenure at the Sheriff’s Office, he served with distinction and integrity, ultimately holding the rank of sergeant at his retirement. His professionalism and leadership have earned respect from colleagues and community members. Prior to becoming a sergeant, he served as a captain in the Sheriff’s Office and graduated from in the 178th session of the FBI National Academy, showing his dedication to law enforcement.
His career was marked by significant contributions to law enforcement and community safety. Mike valued his family life beyond work, frequently taking his grandchildren on camping trips similar to those he shared with his wife and children. He loved the outdoors and would not let his family opt out of any of the multiple long- distance hikes during every camping adventure. His family vacations always
included even longer walks through historic battlefields. Mike’s life was characterized by a deep commitment to his profession, family, and outdoors, leaving a legacy of service and dedication. Both he and his wife will be deeply missed by their children and grandchildren.
He was a member of St. Monica Church of St. Augustine Parish, a life member of the Beaver Valley Chiefs of Police Association, and various other Fraternal Orders of Police.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 48 years, Cynthia Jo Hurst, on January 10, 2026. He is survived by his children, Sherri (Scott) Hurst and Charles “Chuck” Hurst; grandchildren, Talia, Cole, Charolotte, and Olivia; sister, Paula (Mitch) Reid; brother, Timothy (Tammy) Hurst; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.
In accordance with Mike’s wishes, there will be no visitation.
All are welcome to attend a Memorial Mass of Christian Burial at St. Monica Church of St. Augustine Parish, 116 Thorndale Dr., Beaver Falls, PA 15010, on Thursday, April 16th at 10AM with Fr. Kim Schreck as celebrant.
Inurnment will follow in Beaver Cemetery alongside his wife.
Mike’s family respectfully requests in lieu of flowers and other sympathy expressions, memorial contributions be directed to Beaver Valley Chiefs of Police Association, c/o 104 Jessica Ct., Beaver Falls, PA 15010, or Columbiana Project Playground, https://playatfirestone.com/donate-now.
The family sincerely thanks Mike’s brothers and sisters in law enforcement for their unwavering support for his family, along with the compassionate staff at Celebration Villa and Gateway Hospice. Their dedicated care and kindness provided comfort during this challenging time.
The GABAUER-LUTTON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, INC., Chippewa Township, 117 Blackhawk Road, Beaver Falls, PA 15010, was honored to care for Mike and his family during this time.

Sam M. Presutti (1962 – 2026)

Sam M. Presutti, 64, passed away unexpectedly at his home from a pulmonary embolism. Born January 13, 1962, he was the son of the late Sam C. and Maryann Presutti. He was a graduate of Western beaver high school in 1980.

Upon graduation he travelled and lived in Texas, Arizona, and Hawaii. He was a true craftsman, hardworking, building homes including multimillion dollar homes all over the country. Upon returning home to be close to his family he worked as a contractor with Presutti Construction the family business, remodeling & building many homes including his own.

He was a warm-hearted and deeply loving brother and friend to many. Though a man of few words, his kindness spoke volumes, and his loving spirit and big heart touched everyone who knew him.

He was a true outdoorsman, a great marksman, he loved to hunt all game especially rattlesnake hunting. He was also an expert mushroom hunter! He loved bear and deer hunting for many years with his dad and brother at our family camp in Dents Run, Elk County.

Along with his parents, he is preceded in death by his brother, Ted Presutti.

He is survived by his son Sam J. Presutti (Geneva) of Tennessee, and grandson Holston, and his 3 sisters, Lana (Jim) Celender, Pittsburgh, Michelle Presutti, Ohioville and Pamela Gomez, Stafford, VA; as well as many loving nieces and nephews. Sam was loved so very much by his entire family and will be terribly missed. Per his wishes there will be no services.

Professional arrangements have been entrusted to the Noll Funeral Home, Inc., 333 Third St., Beaver. Online condolences may be shared at nollfuneral.com.

James W. Friend (1953 – 2026)

James W. Friend, Sr., 73, of Aliquippa, passed away on April 7, 2026, peacefully surrounded by the love of his family. Born on April 3, 1953 in Uniontown, PA, James was the son of the late Ransler F. Friend and Dorothy Ann (Pender) Friend. James lived a life defined by courage and perseverance and was a man of quiet strength and enduring love.

Despite facing numerous challenges, James never wavered in his love for his family or his commitment to living life fully. He was a devoted husband to Laura (Seevers) Friend, a loving father to seven children, Celestina (James) Shoup, Michael Lee, James (Jessica) Friend, Jr., Morina States, Annoria (Erik) Schreckengost, Christopher Gallagher, and Timothy Gallagher, a doting Pap-Pap to twenty-four grandchildren, and a proud great granddad to fourteen great-grandchildren. He is also survived by six siblings, Dorothy (Terry) Mason, Mary Pearce, Patti Mannon, Sue (Steve) Galina, Kathy (Mike) Cross, and Andy Friend and a multitude of nieces and nephews. James is preceded in death by his parents and older brother, Randy Friend.

James was a hardworking, Jack of all trades, and humble man who loved to fish whenever given the chance. With a cup of coffee in hand, he was always willing to drop whatever he was doing to help anyone, especially if it was to share his mechanical knowledge. James’ kindness, generosity, and unwavering love for his family and friends will never be forgotten. James never failed to say “Love you, be great and safe” when time for goodbyes. He will be forever missed, but always treasured in our hearts.
Visitation will be held Friday from 5-8 pm in the funeral home.

Linda Vono (1948 – 2026)

Linda Vono, 77, died peacefully at her West Mayfield home on April 7, 2026, after a brief illness. She worked tirelessly as a banquet waitress at the former Holiday Inn until her retirement in 2009. Since then, she loved spending time with her best friends, Terry and Ernie. She liked children and spending time with Sophia and Henry, and her great-nephew and great-niece, Jackson and Max. She also spent many hours tending to her lawn and gardens. She is survived by her daughter, Kimberly (Lou) Swoager, and her grandchildren, Sophia and Henry. She is also survived by her sister, Debbie (Philip) Soriano Fatula, their children, Gretchen and Sam; brother, Roger (Marian) Soriano, and their children, Jennifer, John, and Sarah; and numerous cousins, both local and away. She was preceded in death by her parents, Roger and Sophie Soriano, and numerous aunts and uncles. Friends will be received Sunday from 2-4 PM and 6-8 PM at CORLESS-KUNSELMAN FUNERAL SERVICES, LLC 3801 4th Avenue, Beaver Falls, where prayers will be held Monday at 9:20 AM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Monday at 10 AM at St. Augustine Parish, St. Monica Church, 116 Thorndale Drive Beaver Falls, PA 15010. Interment will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery.

Susan C. Maxwell (1933 – 2026)

Susan Chrystal (Cull) Maxwell, 92, of Enon Valley, passed away on Tuesday, April 7, 2026 at Jameson Nursing and Rehabilitation in New Castle.

Born on August 26, 1933 in Dayton, OH, she was the daughter of the late Russel Evan Luther and Chlora Lefy (Blowers) Cull

Susan was a devoted and creative woman who found joy in the simple things. She had a true gift for gardening, spending many of her younger years happily tending and weeding her plants. She was also a skilled seamstress and enjoyed cross-stitch for over 30 years. A homebody at heart, Susan expressed her love through her excellent cooking. She also shared her voice generously, singing for many decades with the Beaver Valley Choral Society, where her presence brought harmony and grace to her community. She will be remembered for her warmth, creativity, and gentle spirit. She will be missed.

In addition to her parents, Susan was preceded in death by her husband, Richard Parker Maxwell; her sister, Margaret Alice Richards; her brother-in-law, Robert Richards; and her granddaughter; Mary Louise Maxwell.

Susan is survived by her daughters, Karen M. (Donald) Fry and Julia Lynn Summa; her sons, Robin P. Maxwell, Keith (Neysa) Maxwell, Dr. Gerald S. (Dawn L.) Maxwell, Michael A. Maxwell, and Kenneth G. (Meg) Maxwell; 17 grandchildren; along with numerous great-grandchildren.

A graveside service will be held on Friday, April 10, 2026 at 11AM at Little Beaver Cemetery, 1471 State Route 351 Enon Valley, PA 16120. Arrangements were handled by the GABAUER-LUTTON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, Inc., 117 Blackhawk Road Beaver Falls, PA 15010.

Barbara L. Dye (1945-2026)

Barbara L. Dye, 80, of Ambridge , passed away on April 6, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. She was the daughter of the late Walter and Laura Brannon.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Norman Dye Sr., and her daughter, Darlene Littles.

Barbara is survived by her children, Karen, Brenda, Chadale, Juanita, Norman Dye Jr., and Ebony; as well as a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

She worked for many years as a nurse’s aide, dedicating her time to caring for others. In her free time, Barbara enjoyed gardening and cooking, with her specialties including lemon meringue pie and meatloaf. She was a faithful member of Antioch Baptist Church in Sewickley, and found her greatest joy in spending time with her family.

Services will be held privately.

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.