Ethel V. Raskovsky (1926-2024)

Ethel Veronica Raskovsky (née Zgainer), 98, of Sewickley, passed away on June 1, 2024, at home surrounded by her family. She was born on January 4, 1926, in Windsor Heights, WV.

Ethel was a first-generation American on her father’s side and a patriotic American proud of her Croatian ancestry. Her father’s work brought their family to Ambridge, PA, where Ethel and her four elder siblings were raised. She graduated with honors from Ambridge High School in 1944. She was introduced to her late husband Michael Raskovsky on a blind date by her future sister-in-law Mary Raskovsky Rusnak.  They were married six months later in 1947.

Ethel was passionate about bowling and did so weekly until her death.  She loved to travel and polka dance. She was an avid reader, and loved to watch and root for the Steelers, Penguins, and Pirates. She remained tremendously active throughout her life, and was known for her hard work, discipline, devout nature, and most of all her love of family. Even in the face of numerous personal tragedies and hardships, she always maintained a positive outlook.

She was a master seamstress, tailoring U.S. Army uniforms for income while her husband served on Active Duty. Ethel also worked in the tax inheritance office in Beaver County and later as a teller at Mellon Bank in Ambridge for 30 years. Post-retirement, she enjoyed working part-time at Shades and Such in Sewickley.

Ethel was a member of Divine Redeemer Catholic Church in Ambridge and later St. James Catholic Church in Sewickley. She is survived by her daughter Eileen Ryan, son Michael Raskovsky (Reba), daughter Amy Vaccaro (Andrew); nine grandchildren, Rick Killmeyer (Lizann), Olivia Raskovsky, Keaton Raskovsky, Gillian Braiman (Jared), Caroline Peters, Thomas Vaccaro, and Rocco Vaccaro; and two great-grandchildren, Declan and Maeve Killmeyer, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to her late husband, Michael Raskovsky, Ethel was preceded in death by her father Anton Zgainer, mother Katherine Rozic, sisters Mary Choich, Frances Semega, and Josephine Spolarich Matzie; brother Anthony Zgainer, and her beloved companion of 15 years, Jim Cordan.

Friends and relatives are invited to celebrate Ethel’s life on Tuesday, June 4, 2024, at a visitation from 2:00 pm-4:00 pm and 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm on at John Syka Funeral Home, 833 Kennedy Dr, Ambridge, PA 15003.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on June 5, 2024, at 10:30 am at Divine Redeemer Parish, St. Mary’s, 444 Glenfield Road, Sewickley, PA.

Ethel Veronica Raskovsky will be dearly missed by her family and friends. The world will be a little less bright without her smile.  May she rest in peace.

Bonita “Bonnie” Kay (Moore) Willson (1943-2024)

Bonita “Bonnie” Kay (Moore) Willson, 80, of North Sewickley Township died Thursday, May 30, 2024 in Cambridge Village, Patterson Township.

Born November 6,1943 in New Brighton, PA, Bonnie was the daughter of the late William Donald and Pansy Bell (Ledsome) Moore.

A graduate of Beaver Falls High School and Geneva College, she was a lifelong member of the Reformed Presbyterian Church, most recently at Hope Community Reformed Presbyterian Church, Beaver Falls. She retired from Geneva College where she worked in the Admissions Office.

She enjoyed tending to her flowers and spending time with her family and church friends. She may have been known to enjoy sweets and lots of them! She was also known for her quick wit, especially in her later years. Her talents included doing headstands, playing the trumpet, and making delicious fruit pies.

She is survived by her daughters Amy (and Jason) Sciarro, Beaver Falls, and Stacy (and Todd) Dean, Greer, SC; her grandchildren Courtney and Nathan Sciarro, Tyler, Noah and Brooks Dean, and David, Jacob, Seth and Jesse Willson; a sister-in-law, Eleanor Moore, and brother-in-law, Wendell McBurney, and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 56 years David Dean Willson, Oct 5, 2021, a son, James Douglas Willson, April 26, 2024, and a brother, William Donald Moore, Jr.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.

Interment will be held Monday at 1:00 pm on June 3rd in the Mars Cemetery.

The family wishes to thank the staff at Cambridge Village and Heartland Hospice for their compassionate care and Mom’s church friends for their prayers and visits.

Memorial contributions may be made, if desired, to Hope Community Reformed Presbyterian Church, Beaver Falls.

Arrangements by Hill & Kunselman Funeral Home, www.hillandkunselman.com, 3801-4th Avenue, Beaver Falls, PA 15010.

Donald W. Zahn (1939-2024)

Donald W. Zahn, 85, a lifelong resident of Freedom, Pa, passed away peacefully on Friday, May 31, 2024, in Heritage Valley Hospital, Beaver. Don was born May 19, 1939, in New Brighton, and was the oldest of four children to the late Willis E. and Dorothy Musgrave Zahn. Don graduated from Freedom High School in 1957and was the class president. He then received a Bachelor’s Degree from Geneva College as he and his wife, JoAnn, began raising their young family. He then began a successful career lasting 45 years with Valvoline/Ashland Petroleum Company, where he began as a shipping clerk and advanced to become the refinery and plant manager. Don was also co-owner of J&J Catering, Freedom. Don was extremely involved in the Beaver County Community where he held more than 15 positions. These were to include Freedom Area School Board, Mayor of Freedom, as well as the code enforcement officer, Penn State University Advisory Board, McGuire Board of Directors, Reeves Bank Board of Directors, Beaver County YMCA Board of Directors, First Nation Advisory Board, CCBC Board of Directors, Freedom/Liberty Bell Board of Directors and United Way of Central Valley. Don had an affinity for all Pittsburgh sports teams, but he held a passionate love for the Penn State Nittany Lions. Don was a faithful contributing member of St. Felix, Roman Catholic Church, Our Lady of the Valley, Freedom, where he attended weekly mass until the time of his illness. Don’s family cared for him dearly in life and continues to love him endlessly in this time. Don always greeted family with, “Tell me something good”, and always said goodbye with, “Call me if you need anything”.
Don is survived by his wife of 65 years, JoAnn Golletti Zahn, two sons and daughters in law, Donald A. and Cassie Zahn, Jeffrey “Glenn” and Karin Zahn, one daughter and son in law, LeeAnn and Mike Tibolet, six grandchildren, Michael (Chelsea), Donnie Zahn, Kristi (Nicki), Christian (Megan), Elizabeth and Ally and four great grandchildren, one brother, Jerry (Barb) Zahn, two sisters, Dorothy (Bob) Kocher, Reverend Nancy Zahn, a brother and sister in law, Ron and Jackie Golletti and numerous nieces and nephews. Don was preceded in death by his mother and father in law, Tony and Rose Golletti.
Friends will be received Wednesday, June 5, 2024, from 3 to 7 in The William Murphy Funeral Home, Inc. A mass of Christian Burial will be held Thursday, June 6, at 10 a.m. at St. Felix Roman Catholic Church, Freedom, Pa. Officiating will be Father Bill Schwartz. Interment will be in Calvary Cemetery, Freedom. Family wishes memorial contributions be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.
Don’s loving family would like to thank all the talented and career health professionals who cared for him and enjoyed spending time with him.

Dennis Michael Stewart (1956-2024)

Dennis “Mike” “Denny” Michael Stewart, 68, of Ambridge, passed away peacefully Sunday, May 26, 2024, at Heritage Valley Beaver Hospital.

He was born February 23, 1956, in Pennsylvania, and was a 1974 graduate of Central Valley High School in Monaca, Pennsylvania. The son of William and Lorraine (Sutton) Stewart.

Dennis dedicated the last six years of his life to Halcon/Professional Transportation INC in Conway, where he served as a cherished member of the team, providing essential transportation services for railroad train crews. He approached his work with passion and dedication, forming deep bonds with his coworkers and passengers alike. Dennis found immense joy in his role, evident in his unwavering commitment and the smiles he brought to those he served.

Beyond his professional life, Dennis was a man of many passions. Music held a special place in his heart, and he found solace and joy in singing. Whether it was belting out tunes at karaoke nights or simply enjoying the melodies of his favorite songs, Dennis’s love for music was infectious. He embraced life with a zest for song and shared his enthusiasm with all who knew him.

Family was important to Dennis, and he cherished every moment spent with his loved ones. His pride and joy were his children and grandchildren, whom he adored beyond measure. Dennis often spoke fondly of their achievements, boasting of their successes with a beaming smile. His love for his family knew no bounds, and his presence will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate enough to know him.

His memory is fondly embraced by his children: Danielle Stewart (Ronda Hillman), Denise Halverstadt (Jeremy Halverstadt), Lorrie Beery (Dave Jeanclerc), and John Saxon. Additionally, he is survived by his cherished grandchildren: Sidney Negron, Isabella Beery, and Elliot Halverstadt. Among those who also mourn his loss are his beloved siblings: Roberta Bianco (Rocco Bianco), William Stewart, Penny Ward, and Virginia Stewart.

Dennis is preceded in death by the enduring companionship of Maryanne Eberst, his beloved partner of 19 years, alongside his parents, William and Lorraine (Sutton) Stewart; and beloved nephew, Richard Alan Smith.

Friends will be received Thursday from 2-4 PM and 6-8 PM in the CORLESS-MATTER FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, LLC, 1133 Church Street Ambridge, PA 15003, Online condolences may be shared at www.corlessmatterfuneralhome.com.

Marge J. Salamone (1937-2024)

Marge J. Salamone, 86, of Conway, passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, May 29, 2024. She was the daughter of the late David and Rose Miles. In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her husband, Frank “Buff” Salamone and her sister Mary Ann Niklewicz. She is survived by her children, Frank Salamone Jr., Ray Salamone, Lisa (Ron) Mazzetti, sister, Betty (Thomas) Murray, grandchildren, Steve (Heather) Painter, Tyler Hallaman, Amanda Salamone, three great grandchildren, and nephew, Jeremy Valent. Marge was a graduate of Ambridge Area Highschool. Her first job was a key punch operator at American Bridge Company. She sold real estate for over 40 years, and helped her son at Conway Pizza. She was a Christian Mother at the former Saint Veronica Church in Ambridge. Marge will be dearly missed by all her family and friends. Friends will be received on Monday, June 3, 2024, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM in the Alvarez-Hahn Funeral Services and Cremation, LLC, 547 8th Street, Ambridge, 724-266-2549. A blessing service will be held at 11:00 AM Tuesday, June 4, 2024, at the funeral home.  Burial will be private at Calvary Cemetery. The family would like to extend there sincere gratitude to Donna, Melissa, Mary Ann, as well as Three Oaks Hospice for their excellent care of Marge.

Raymond Thomas “Tom” Carter (1944-2024)

Raymond Thomas “Tom” Carter, born on September 14, 1944, passed away peacefully with his family by his side on May 30, 2024. Tom was a graduate of Beaver Falls High School, Class of 1962.

Tom served our country with distinction, spending four years on active duty in the United States Air Force. He was stationed for one year at Tan Son Nhut Air Base in South Vietnam, serving as a Air Police during the Vietnam War. After his active duty, he continued his service with the 911th Air Force Reserve for another four years. Tom was a respected member of the Beaver Falls American Legion.

His professional career was spent at Westinghouse-Cuttler Hammer, where he worked diligently as a Machine Repairman until his retirement. Not one to remain idle, Tom continued to work post-retirement at Rolling Acres Golf Course and as a security officer at Geneva College.

Tom is survived by his beloved wife of 57 years, Caren Carter; his daughter Cammie (Jeffrey) Schoeneweis; his son TR (Darcie) Carter; and his cherished grandchildren, Courtney Small, Lacey (Edward) Kallen, Cody (Dallis) Schoeneweis, Creighton Carter and Brynn Carter.  He also leaves behind his adored great-grandchildren Enzo, Isla, Addelyn, and Cody Jr.

Tom was preceded in death by his father, Alfred Benjamin Carter, Sr.; his mother, Dorothy Manion; brother Alfred (Ben) Carter Jr., sister Dolly Dedonker, nephew Alfred (Benny) Carter III, and niece Kelly Blythe.

Known for his infectious sense of humor and dedication to his family, Tom lived to make everyone around him laugh. He was truly the life of the party, always wearing a smile on his face and bringing joy to those around him. His kind soul and generous spirit touched everyone he met. Tom’s memory will be forever treasured by those who knew and loved him.

A celebration of Tom’s life will be held on Monday, June 3rd from 2 – 4PM and 6-8 PM and Tuesday June 4th, 12pm until the time of service at 1PM in the GABAUER-LUTTON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, INC., 117 Blackhawk Rd., Chippewa Twp., where family and friends can gather to honor his legacy and share in the joy he brought to all our lives.

Members of the Beaver County Special Unit will provide full military honors at 12:55am at the funeral home on Tuesday.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Advanced Hospice and their team for their exceptional care and compassion during Tom’s final days.

Janet A. Young (1952-2024)

Janet A. (Gahles) Young, 71, of Industry, died Tuesday May 28, 2024, in her residence.

She was born October 8, 1952, in Rochester, she was the daughter of the late Robert and Mary (Jolley) Gahles. Janet was a graduate of Penn State University. She worked at Valley Tribune as an editor and Gateway Rehabilitation Center as a social worker. She loved the outdoors, hunting, fishing and was an avid reader.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Donald Lee Young, on May 15, 2022.

She is survived by a brother, Robert Gahles; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Art and Brenda Siebenaler, Sean and Beth White and Lanny Young ; father-in-law and mother-in-law, James and Ilene White. Several nieces and nephews and her beloved dog Bella.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, June 8, 2024 at 4PM at the Lillyville Church of God 408 Hickernell Rd. Ellwood City, PA 16117

Inurnment will take place in Slippery Rock Cemetery.

The Gabauer-Lutton Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc., Chippewa, 117 Blackhawk Road, Beaver Falls, was honored to provide care and guidance to Janet’s family during this time. www.gabauerfamilyfuneralhomes.com

Norma E. Durham (1932-2024)

Norma E Durham, of Chippewa, a beloved Mother, Grandmother, Sister, Aunt and Friend, passed away peacefully on May 28, 2024, at the age of 92.

Born April 30,1932 to the late Virginia and Robert Johnson or North Sewickley. She graduated from Beaver Falls High School in 1949.

Norma’s life was a beautiful testament to love, faith, and family. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered as the “Sweetest Human Being on Earth”.

Norma found great joy in spending winters in Florida with her loving husband Dan of more than 60 years. Together, they enjoyed the warm weather, made many friends, and created countless memories in the Sunshine State.

Her family and friends will always remember her as a dove of peace, a pillar of strength and a source of endless love and support. Her legacy of kindness and devotion will live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her.

Norma is preceded in death by her husband Daniel, son Daniel “Butch”, daughter Patricia “Trish” and sister Clara Frazier.

She is survived by her children, Rebecca “Becky” (William) Becze, Michael (Dr Jennifer) Durham, brother Robert Johnson and her cherished grandchildren, Benjamin Becze (Lisa), Rachel Becze (David Peters), Jack, Annie and Holly Durham, and her many nieces and nephews. She was a loving and supportive Grandmother and Aunt, always ready with a kind word, a warm hug, and cookies from the cookie jar.

Friends will be received on Monday June 3rd from 3-7PM in the Gabauer-Lutton Funeral Home in Chippewa Twp.,117 Blackhawk Rd in Beaver Falls. A celebration of Norma’s life will be held on Tuesday morning from 10-11AM in the funeral home chapel led by Dr Robert Frazier. Private interment in the Beaver Falls Cemetery.

Maryann (O’Neill) Lindner (1937-2024)

Maryann (O’Neill) Lindner, 87 of Darlington, passed away Tuesday May 28, 2024 in Canterbury Place, Pittsburgh.

Born February 19, 1937 in Aliquippa was the daughter of the late Charles & Margaret O’Neill.

Maryann graduated from Darlington High School in 1955.   She was a member of St. Augustine’s Parish ( St. Monica’s).

Surviving are a sister Madelaine ( Frank) Jenkins, a brother Patrick O’ Neill and her three children John Charles Lindner, Kathleen Ann Lindner and Jerry Matthew ( Crystal) Lindner.

In addition to her parents she was preceded in death by her husband John E. Lindner, her sister Margaret O’Neill and sister-in-law Toni O’Neill.

A private Blessing service was held for the family with Father Bill Schwartz.

Interment followed in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Chippewa Township.

Timothy Blackburn (September 2, 1960 – May 26, 2024)

Timothy Blackburn Sr., 63, of West Mayfield passed away on Sunday, May 26, 2024.
He is survived by his wife, Jeannie (Estel) Blackburn and their four children, Heather Lynn Blackburn (Tyrone Climo), Markelle Herman (Jason Herman), Hannah Blackburn and Timothy Blackburn; two brothers David Blackburn (Nancy) and Mark Blackburn (Tammy). Tim was loved deeply by his seven grandchildren, Paige, Raelynn, McKinley Wyatt, Joseph, Austyn Lyn and Leroy.

He was preceded in death by his father Cecil Blackburn and his mother Martha Jane Ceratti, brothers, Craig Blackburn and Cecil Blackburn.

Tim loved his Steelers and Pirates and would cheer them on in his loud booming voice every chance he could.
Tim worked for 23 years in the dietary dept. at Heritage Valley, Beaver and was a cook for Lances Port and Pub in Darlington.

A memorial service will be held June 22nd at 11:00 am at Chippewa Alliance Church, 3629 37th Street Ext., Beaver Falls.
Memorial contributions may be made, if desired, to the Beaver County Cancer and Heart Association, 3582 Brodhead Road, # 201, Monaca, PA 15061
HILL AND KUNSELMAN FUNERAL HOME, www.hillandkunselman.com, was in charge of arrangements.