Bradford James Silk, Jr. (1946-2025)

Bradford James Silk Jr., 79, of Leetsdale, passed away at home on May 4th, 2025, with his loving family by his side. He was born in Pittsburgh on April 20th, 1946, a son of the late Bradford Sr. and Mavis (Wells) Silk. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Susan (Hamilton) Silk. He is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Margaret Anne (Cummins) Silk, his sons, Bradford James Silk III (Barbara) and Robert Francis Silk, his grandchildren: Ashley Anne Knutson (Andrew), Bradford James Silk IV (Amy), Victoria Lynn Hickerson (John) and Sean Robert Silk (Anna); as well as great-grandchildren, Lilly Silk, Aiden Knutson, and expected Iris Silk, his sister, Bonnie Ufert, his brother, Doug Silk, and 8 nieces and 4 nephews.

Bradford was a dedicated public servant who served 4 years in the United States Navy, and also served as a cub scout master, a fire fighter for 45-years, a fire chief for 8 years, a city councilman for 8 years and was the chairman of the municipal water sewage board. He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting and fishing with his sons, grandchildren and close friends. He was a loving husband, father to his children and pups, and proud to be a grandfather and great-grandfather.

Family and friends are welcome to gather for a visitation on Friday, May 9th, from 4-8 P.M., in the John Syka Funeral Home, Inc., 833 Kennedy Drive, Ambridge, where a funeral service will be held on Saturday, May 10th at 11 A.M.

Elsie Marie Scarsella (1935-2025)

Elsie Marie Scarsella, 89, of Center Township, passed away on May 4th, 2025, surrounded by her loving family at Beaver Meadows where she resided. She was born in Aliquippa on December 27th, 1935, a daughter of the late Antonio and Joanne (Vasiu) Infantozzi.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sisters, Philomena Infantozzi, Rose Nare (Louis) Karnos and Mary Ann (Bill) Siebert and a brother, Larry (Michelle) Infantozzi. She is survived by her cherished children, Lisa (Jeff) Todd and Louis Scarsella, her grandchildren, Marisa (Dominic) Scalamogna, Lucas (Bethany) Scarsella and Brandon (Marisa) Scarsella, her great grandchildren: Angel, Mia and Antonio Scalamogna, and Avery and Adelyn Scarsella; as well as a brother, William (Phyllis) Infantozzi and many nieces and nephews.
Elsie was a member of both Mary Queen of Saints Parish and St. Frances Cabrini Church of Aliquippa. She retired from Westinghouse and Eaton Corporation where she worked for over 45 years.
Elsie was a devoted daughter, sister, mother and grandmother.
The family would like to thank the staff at St. Barnabas, Beaver Meadows for all their loving care that was extended to Elsie over the past five years.
In accordance with Elsie’s request, there will be no visitation. A Mass of Christian burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, May 9th at St. Frances Cabrini Church, 115 Trinity Drive, Aliquippa. Private interment will follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, 2186 Broadhead Road, Aliquippa. Arrangements have been entrusted to the ANTHONY MASTROFRANCESCO FUNERAL HOME, INC. 2026 McMinn Street, Aliquippa.

Josephine G. (Grecich) Marchwinski (1935-2025)

Josephine G. (Grecich) Marchwinski, 89, formerly of Beaver Falls, peacefully passed away on May 2nd, 2025 surrounded by her loving family at Forest Hill Heights in Forest Hills, Maryland.

She was born in New Brighton on June 16th, 1935, a daughter of the late Caroline (Hrvoj) and Grga Grecich. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 52 years, Daniel John Marchwinski, Sr., her sister, Barbara Shaban, her brother, George Grecich, and two beloved grandchildren, Mark Andrew Mikolay and Pava Marie LaPere. She was the proud mother of eight children: Theresa Marchwinski (Cincinnati, Ohio), Pat (Bob) Tobin (Bel Air, Maryland), Caroline (Frank) LaPere (Tucson, Arizona), Barbara Marchwinski (Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania), Mary Marchwinski (Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania), Anna (Mark) Mikolay (Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania), Dan (Traci) Marchwinski (Billings, Montana) and Janey Garcia (Bel Air, Maryland). She is also survived by 13 grandchildren, 4 great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins, all of whom brought her immense joy and pride.

Josephine, affectionately known as Josie, was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Her and her husband resided in West Mayfield where they raised their family.

She was a lifelong member of St. Philomena Parish, the Christian Mothers, and the Croatian Fraternal Union.  Throughout her life, she held various jobs. After high school, she worked in the offices of Townsend & Co. Once her youngest child started school, she became the cafeteria manager at St. Philomena School. Later, she worked in the bakery departments at Economy and Foodland grocery stores, where her warmth and work ethic made her beloved by many. Josie also worked at the Community College of Beaver County, where she proudly learned to use a computer.

At home, Josephine was known for baking the best pepperoni rolls, cookies, cakes, and her famous cherry dessert.

She was a passionate reader and avid card player who especially loved teaching her grandchildren how to play cards and bingo. She loved to travel to visit family across the United States, Croatia, and Ireland. Her sweet disposition, kindness, and deep faith left a lasting impression on all who knew her.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects at the J&J Spratt Funeral Home in New Brighton, on Friday, May 9th from 4-7 P.M. A Rosary will be prayed at 6:30 P.M. A Catholic Burial Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, May 10th at 11 A.M. at Holy Family Church, 521 7th Avenue, New Brighton. She will be interred at St. Joseph’s Cemetery, 1501 1st Avenue, New Brighton.

Josephine will be dearly missed and forever remembered in the hearts of those she loved and who loved her.

In honor of Josephine’s memory, plant a tree or consider donating to your local library, two of the many things she cherished deeply.

James Edward Ritchie, Sr. (1958-2025)

James Edward Ritchie Sr., 66, of Aliquippa, passed away on May 3rd, 2025 in Heritage Valley Sewickley surrounded by his family.

He was born in Beaver Falls on November 16th, 1958, a son of the late Herbert L. and Millicent A. (Maley) Ritchie. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Herbert Ritchie Jr., his sister, Betty Jeane Ritchie and his brother-in-law, John Quigley, Sr. He is survived by his beloved wife of 46 years, Mary Ann (Drobac) Ritchie, his children: Kristie (Jimmy Owens) Ritchie, James (Brittany) Ritchie Jr., Joshua Ritchie, and Michael Ritchie; along with his former daughter in-law, Kaylene Ritchie, a brother, William Joseph Ritchie, his sisters, Donna Ritchie and Florence Quigley, six grandchildren: Michael (Ashlynn) Napolitan III, Anna Napolitan, Kylie Napolitan, James Ritchie III, William Ritchie and Jonathan Ritchie; as well as two great-grandchildren, Michael IV and Ezekiel and many nieces and nephews.

James had a career as a forklift operator and as a laborer within various industries. He was an avid Pittsburgh Sports Fan and loved watching the Steelers and Penguins games. He also loved watching CNN.

A celebration of life for James conducted by the family will be held on Thursday, May 8th at the Rochester Free Methodist Church, 480 Jefferson Street, Rochester. Family and friends are welcome to come to share memories and a meal together from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. and a service will be held at 3:30 p.m. by Pastor Chuck Thomas.

Arrangements for James were entrusted to the GABAUER FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, INC., 1133 Penn Avenue, New Brighton, who had the honor of providing care to him and his family.

Nancy Matika Yanyanin (1950-2025)

Nancy Matika Yanyanin, 75, of Economy, passed away on May 4th, 2025.

She was born on April 13, 1950, a daughter of the late Andrew and Mary Matika. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Mitchell Yanyanin, her sister, Pamela Budris, her cousin, Robert Karwoski and her nephew, Steven Maslek. She is survived by her beloved son, Nicholas Yanyanin of Economy, who will cherish the countless memories and the indelible legacy left by his adoring mother. She is also survived by her brothers-in-law, Bill Budris of Center Township and Larry Yanyanin (Lynnie) of Freedom, her sisters-in-law, Cheryl Maslek of Aspinwall and Laurene Yotes of Monaca, along with many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews including her nieces, Kristen Budris of Pittsburgh, Alexa Yanyanin of Moon Township, Ellen Filar (Joe) of Fox Chapel and Johnna (Todd) Haller of Monaca; as well as her nephew, Anthony Budris (Brandi) of Hopewell, her great-nieces, Afton and Amzey Budris of Hopewell, Sera and Vie Filar of Fox Chapel and her great-nephew, Mitchell Maslek of Center Township.

Nancy grew up in Freedom and is a graduate of Edinboro University. She married her high school sweetheart, the late Mitchell Yanyanin, who kept her laughing during their over 50 years of marriage.

Nancy was a devoted teacher and vice principal at Quigley Catholic High School before joining the Pennsylvania Cyber Charter School as a Human Resources Executive. Her passion for current events and sports was evident to all who knew her, and her contributions to the Quigley Catholic High School community will be remembered for years to come.

She always made room in her life and heart for her many family members and friends that were dear to her including from the Caputo family: Doreen Mole-West, Richard (Maritza) Caputo, Raymond Caputo (Denise), Dominic Caputo (Linh), Greg Caputo (Ellen); the Matika family – Paula Quolke (Tom), Tom Panek (Patty), Roberta Good, Michael Matika, Mark Matika, Cathi Ashebill; as well as the Karwoski family: James Karwoski (Marta,), Thomas  Karwoski (Deb), Beverly Karwoski, JT Karwoski (Tracy, Maisie), Jeff Karwoski, Dina Karwoski, Jill Valentine (Lon, Brendan, Brady). Nancy had many lifelong friends from Beaver County and beyond, too many to list all of them, but special recognition goes out to: Karen Holiday, Lorraine Walley, Marilou Gibbs, Tom Holsinger, Janet Knowton, Anita Hooke, Scott Antoline, Lauren Bensink, Gayle and Larry Piroli, and Rozan and Jerry Antonetti.

A visitation for Nancy will be held on Sunday, May 11th from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 P.M. at the Huntsman Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Rochester, where family and friends will gather to pay their respects and celebrate Nancy’s extraordinary life. A mass of Christian Burial will take place at St. Felix Church in Freedom on Monday, May 12th, at 10 a.m. Interment will follow at Calvery Cemetery in Freedom.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Sisters of Saint Joseph, the Beaver County Humane Society and the American Civil Liberties Union.

J. Scott Kent (1930-2025)

J. Scott Kent, 95, of Vanport Township, passed away on May 4th, 2025, at Mercy Hospice of Poland, Ohio.

He was born in Wayne Township on February 24th, 1930, a son of the late John and Helen Snell Kent. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Sylvia, his daughter, Kelly and his sisters, Joan Copeland, Grace Sweeney and Mary Kent. He will be greatly missed by his children, Richard (Carol) Kent and Sheri (Don) Hinzman, his grandchildren: Christopher (Lauren) Hinzman, Katie (Jake) Hummel, Jordan (Brooks) Canavesi, Travis (Jenny) Kent, Kyle Kent and Breanne (Marc) Phillips; along with his great-grandchildren: Max and Macy Hinzman, Caden, Cruz, and Lyla Canavesi, Izzy, Killian, and Miles Phillips, and Emery, Tristan and Tyler Kent; as well as his brother, Wesley Kent, his brother-in-law, Roy Roberts, and several wonderful nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews, whom he dearly loved.

Scott was a proud veteran of the U.S. Army, who served during the Korean War. He reached the rank of Sergeant as an MP and received many medals, including the National Defense and Japan Occupation Medals. When he returned home, Scott began a 38-year career as a welder and team leader with Westinghouse of Vanport Township. In his spare time, Scott expressed his creativity as a locally renowned wood carver. He was a member of Beaver Valley Woodcarvers who initiated art classes with churches, schools and scouting troops, where he demonstrated apple head carving. He carved over 500 angels and crosses, many of which he gave away, and was celebrated by the Merrick Art Gallery, Butler Institute of American Art and Art of American Back Roads of Youngstown, Ohio. Scott authored two books, with some of his poems having been featured in various newspapers. He was also a former member of the Brighton Township Volunteer Fire Department.

Friends will be received on Thursday, May 8th from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. in the Noll Funeral Home, Inc., 333 Third Street, Beaver. Online condolences may be shared at nollfuneral.com.

Scott made many wonderful friends along his journey. He was especially appreciative of the maintenance men and office ladies at Van Buren Homes of Vanport Township, his neighbors, Wally, Rose and Anthony and the compassionate staff at Mercy Compassus Hospice House of Poland, Ohio.

The family asks that those who have a carving or walking stick to please bring it when attending the visitation.

David Lee Rainey (1947-2025)

David Lee Rainey, 77, a devoted father, cherished husband, and friend to many, passed away on April 20th, 2025 at UPMC Mercy Hospital with his family by his side.

He was born in Indiana, Pennsylvania on July 16th, 1947, the son of the late Sara Rainey.  In addition to his mother, he is survived by his loving wife of nearly 42 years, Robin (Eck) Rainey, four sons: Michael (Stephanie) Rainey, Jacob Rainey, Brady Rainey and Cody (Arantxa) Rainey, two grandchildren, Michelle (Colton) Eshleman and Michael(Alexis) Rainey, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

David had worked as a salesman for the majority of his professional career, most recently having worked at 422 Home Sales. He embraced life with a quiet strength and a deep love for his family. He was the beloved husband of Robin, with whom he shared 42 years filled with love, laughter, and unwavering support. However, his greatest joy and proudest accomplishment was being the father of his four sons: Michael, Jacob, Brady and Cody. He was their constant, their guide, and their biggest fan. Whether it was coaching their sports teams, patiently teaching them life lessons, influencing career decisions, or simply being a steady presence in their lives, he poured his heart into raising them to be good men. His love was a constant, a foundation upon which they could always rely. He was a great dad and always willing to help. David was known for his kindness, patience, sense of humor, strong work ethic. He enjoyed working on cars, motorcycle riding, playing darts and pool, and hanging out with his friends at the Eagles He had a way of making everyone around him feel valued and respected. His warmth, generosity and general interest in others left an indelible mark on everyone he encountered. He will be deeply missed by his family and friends. Though his physical presence is gone, the love and lessons he instilled in his four boys will live on for generations to come. He was a truly good dad, and his memory will forever be a blessing.

David’s wishes for cremation will be honored and no services are being planned at this time.

The GABAUER-LUTTON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, INC., 117 Blackhawk Road, Beaver Falls, has been honored to provide care and guidance to David’s family at this time.

Melvin Lee Rowley (1939-2025)

Melvin Lee Rowley, 85, of Midland, passed away on April 28th, 2025 after a battle with cancer. He was born at the family home near Parkersburg, West Virginia on December 27th, 1939, a son of the late Frank G. and Clarice K. Rowley. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister and brother-in-law, Hila Jean and Carl Carnes and his brother-in-law, Jim Edwards. He is survived by his loving wife, N. Jean Rowley, his son, Robert L. Rowley, his daughters, Kimberly L. (Jeff) Blackburn and Rhonda J. (Randy) Reddinger, his brother, William R. (Eva) Rowley, his grandchildren: Sara Bain, David Rowley, Chrissy Helwig, Daniel Blackburn, Charity Ulrich, Lucas Reddinger, Nathan Blackburn and Benjamin Blackburn; as well as nineteen great-grandchildren.

Melvin was a laborer and Group Leader for 41 years at Westinghouse (Eaton) Corporation of Beaver. He was a member of Fairview PCA church since 1952 and held many offices over the years, including Sunday School Superintendent, Elder and Sunday School teacher. He especially loved participating in the church’s bowling league. Melvin also was an avid hunter and fisherman who loved spending time at his cabin near Ridgeway, Pennsylvania.
A visitation for Melvin will be held on Friday, May 9th from 2-4 P.M. and 6-8 P.M. in the Noll Funeral Home, Inc., 333 Third Street, Beaver. A service will also be held on Saturday, May 10th at 11 A.M. in Fairview PCA Church, 6366 Tuscarawas Road, Industry.
Online condolences may be shared at www.nollfuneral.com.
Memorial contributions may be made to Fairview Church.

 

Charlotte G. Black (1931-2025)

Charlotte G. Black, 93, of Sewickley, formerly of Beaver, passed away on April 27th, 2025 at the Masonic Village of Sewickley.

She was born on July 18th, 1931, the daughter of the late Earl Glendenning, Sr., and Ella May Morgan Glendenning. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, William R. Black, her brother, Earl Glendenning, Jr. and her son-in-law, Larry R. Anderson. She is survived by her daughters, Terry L. Alford of Zionsville, Indiana and Marjorie A. Anderson of Beaver, her grandchildren: Heather L. Duchscher, Jared Alford, Jennifer E. (Dan) Killinger, Kenneth Alford, Timothy W. Mack, Erin L. (Matthew) Ran and Kelley A. (Brian) Brummitt; along with thirteen great-grandchildren and one great-great-granddaughter.

Charlotte was active in her community, serving as an Elder, Sunday School teacher, and choir member with First Presbyterian Church of Midland  before being a long time member of the First Presbyterian Church of Beaver. She was also a member at Deer Trails Country Club, Girl Scouts of America, and Community Bible Study, along with volunteering for many other organizations. She will be remembered as a devoted wife, loving mother, and proud grandmother.

Friends will be received on Saturday, May 10th, from 2 p.m. until the time of service at 4 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church of Beaver. A private interment will take place at Beaver Cemetery. Professional arrangements have been entrusted to Noll Funeral Home, Inc., 333 Third Street, Beaver. Online condolences may be shared at nollfuneral.com.

In lieu of flowers, please consider memorial gifts to a charity of your choice.

 

Mark G. Miller (1974-2025)

Mark G. Miller, 50, passed away on May 4th, 2025. He was born in New Brighton on September 8, 1974, the son of Katherine “Kathy” Habbyshaw Miller, whom he currently resided with. In addition to his mother, he is survived by his cousin, Edward “Larry” (Tammy) Kuriger, of Ellwood City; and his pet, Bobby.

Mark spent the majority of his life living on College Hill in Beaver Falls. He was a graduate of both Beaver Falls High School and LaRoche College. Throughout Mark’s lifetime he held various positions, including being the owner of North East Candle Company. Most recently, he was employed at Gumpfs Garden Center. He was also a member of First Presbyterian Church in Beaver.  A memorial service will be held Friday, May 9th, at 11 A.M. at First Presbyterian Church of Beaver, 252 College Avenue, Beaver, with Pastor Jeff Arnold officiating. Inurnment will be private at Beaver Falls Cemetery. If so desired, memorial contributions may be made in Mark’s name to First Presbyterian Church of Beaver. Professional Services and arrangements were entrusted to CORLESS-KUNSELMAN FUNERAL SERVICES, LLC, 3801 4th Avenue, Beaver Falls.