Randy Edward Stevens (1953-2025)

Randy Edward Stevens, 72, passed away on June 4th, 2025. He was born in San Bernadino, California on March 18th, 1953.

Randy went on many travels by land, sea and air…official demarcations often disregarded in favor of finding the most exotic of ports of call from Bora Bora to Guana. Like a well-known other adventurer who took to another Delta of this fine nation (and who presumably might have also had his own first boat at the ripe age of 14), Randy captained his Flamingo cruiser from one California waterway to the next, likely never growing weary of that illuminated beacon that often welcomed, “Port of San Francisco.” 

On the other side of the country, if you happen to enjoy time in lovely Bridgewater, Pennsylvania, well… there are quite a few stories surrounding Mr. Stevens in that realm, too. Starting his career in a shack overlooking the Beaver River, sharing the office with his brother, Rob, not only did he masterplan the details of that little town right down to the gazebo, but you might never have  experienced the great Bridgewater River Regatta had it not been for him and his folks, Robert and Ruth. His determination and admirable pursuit of architecture led him even further. In fact, if you wouldn’t expect that the boy who once called Beaver Falls home might wind up alongside the titans who designed New York City’s Museum of Modern Art and the Parliament House of Pakistan, then you’d need to reconsider. 

A friend to all Hokies, an enemy of the salamander, the hero of this story-about-stories in his later years could often be spotted on ragtop days driving his red Ford Mustang through Sonoma, only to go idle for the utmost discerning of vistas which notably and oft involved a winery-adjacent picnic. He loved all of California – particularly Northern. From Bodega Bay, up to the Avenue of the Giants, along the coast of Humboldt, and down and around and across and through, from Yosemite to Sea Ranch, Randy Stevens did indeed traverse it all. In fact, some might say he’s marked enough territory in Northern California to challenge that of General Vallejo. 

If one can take a moment for an actual believable truth, however, pure happiness came by way of a much simpler route. All it really took for Randy was a little Mid-Century Modern anything, a great meal and glass of wine, a space for his model trains and coin collection, conversation with friends old and new, and a chair next to his favorite people: The Bacall to his Bogart, wife Lisa Stevens, and his kindred spirit, daughter Anna. 

Randy Stevens was always at his best among friends and family: making what could otherwise be a mundane evening into a jamboree. An armchair historian and folklorist, he could put the most dedicated of scholars to shame with his intricate retellings of everything from wartime sagas to the John Philip Sousa marches of the 1930s Aliquippa marching band. 

Arrangements have been entrusted to the branch of Huntsman Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

Ronald Raymond Rickley (1932-2025)

Ronald (Ron) Raymond Rickley, 93, passed away on June 12th, 2025. 

Ronald was born in Bellevue, Pennsylvania on May 20th, 1932, a son of the late Raymond and Genevieve Rickley. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Porter Rickley (Lena), his brother, Vernon Connell (Katherine) and sister, Marlene Cernansky (George). Shortly after graduating from West View High School, he joined the United States Navy. He faithfully served in the United States Navy during the Korean War along with the crew of the USS Point Cruz CVE119. He was presented with the Winged S Air Rescue Emblem for having participated in the successful life-saving operation with a Sikorsky Helicopter on October 2nd, 1954. After he was honorably discharged from the Navy, he began his career as a Supervising Operating Engineer with Duquesne Light, working alongside his father and brother. Soon thereafter, he met and married his beloved wife, Helen Rickley (née Stoker) who he is survived by, having celebrated 63 years of marriage. He and Helen raised their three daughters in Moon Township. He is the cherished and stalwart father of April Malkowski (Michael), Susan Ring (Aloysius) and Rebecca Hutsler (Mark). A true “girl” Dad – tough on the outside, and fiercely protective, but super soft on the inside when it came to his daughters.

Ronald loved being the treasured “Grampa” of Amanda Malkowski, from building dollhouses for her, to cheering her on through her many life goals and accomplishments. He was a proud “Grampa” of Alex Malkowski, from attending his childhood baseball games, to beaming with pride over his travels and successes. He and his grandson, Connor Ring, shared an obsession with electric trains, building train displays and both loved to fish together at North and Raccoon State Parks.   

Ronald was one of the original volunteer Emergency Medical Technicians for Valley Ambulance Authority, established in January 1972 as the first municipal ambulance authority in the United States. He was in the first class of EMT’s that graduated March 1972 and charter member, volunteering for Valley for many years thereafter. In addition to his volunteer services, he was proud to be a Master Mason and dedicated brother to his fellow Freemasons at the Perry-Ionic Lodge 796 located in Wexford. He received his 60-year pin the fall of 2019.

In accordance with Ronald’s request, he will receive Masonic funeral services. 

Family and friends will be welcomed on Monday, June 16th from 4 p.m. until the time of a Funeral Service at 6 p.m. at the Huntsman Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Moon Township, 1522 Coraopolis Road, Moon Township. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to Shriners Children’s can be made via https://www.shrinerschildrens.org/en/ways-to-give/giving-to-shriners-childrens/honor-a-loved-one or by mail to: Shriners Children’s, Attn: Shriners Children’s Processing Center, PO Box 947765, Atlanta, GA 30394. 

Ronald A. Conforti (1950-2025)

Ronald A. Conforti, 75, of South Beaver Township, passed away peacefully on June 14th, 2025, in the comfort of his home.

He was born in Beaver Falls on May 9, 1950, a son of the late Ralph and Ida (Cocco) Conforti.In addition to his parents, Ron was preceded in death by his son, Joseph Conforti. He is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Rose (Izzo) Conforti, his daughters, Jennifer Conforti and Melissa (Chris) Chirichetti, his grandchildren: Kayla Conforti, Nicholas Conforti, Christopher Chirichetti, Jenna Chirichetti, Elizabeth Conforti, Austin Conforti, Jackson Conforti and Zakaryah Jones: as well as his brother, Joseph (Nancy) Conforti and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

Ronald was a proud veteran of the United States Army.  Following his discharge, he worked for Westinghouse/Cutler Hammer, where he retired after 45 years of faithful service.  In his free time, he enjoyed hunting and fishing. In his younger years, he enjoyed coaching his children and nephews in both softball and the Blackhawk Colts as well as being the equipment manager for the Chippewa Indians. His grandchildren were the light of his life, and he cherished every moment he spent with them.

Friends will be received on Tuesday, June 17th from 2 P.M. until the time of services at 6 P.M. in the GABAUER-LUTTON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, INC., 117 Blackhawk Road, Beaver Falls. Pastor Dan Muir will officiate.

Interment will be private in Seceder Cemetery.

Robert David Spann (1936-2025)

Robert David Spann, 88, of Petersburg, Ohio, passed away on June 11th, 2025 at Providence Care Center of Beaver Falls.

He was born in Beaver Falls on June 23, 1936, the son of the late Martin and Margaret (Graham) Spann. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Dwight Spann, Sr., his sister, Sandra Shield, 1 grandchild, 1 great-grandchild and a son-in-law, Shawn Raab. He is survived by his wife, LuValta K. (Knight) Spann, his children, Susan Raab, Roberta (Danny) Parrott and Robert E. (Erika Myers) Spann, 8 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

Robert was a proud member of the Air National Guard in Pittsburgh. Following his service, he spent his life as a truck driver and a journeyman electrician. He also attended the New Galilee Church of the Nazerene. Robert enjoyed the time he spent with his family and flying his Cherokee 140 low-wing aircraft. He was also a ham radio operator, call sign WA3QZK.

Friends will be received on Wednesday, June 18th from 2 P.M. until the time of a service at 7 P.M. in the GABAUER-LUTTON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, INC., 117 Blackhawk Road, Beaver Falls.

Interment will be private in Seceder Cemetery.

Alesa James Carr (1965-2025)

Alesa James Carr, 60, a devoted mother of two and visionary attorney known for her dedication to equity and public health, impeccable style and generous spirit, passed away on May 25th, 2025 in West Bloomfield, Michigan.

She was born in Beaver Falls on January 28th, 1965, a daughter of George E. James and the late Marian R. (Richardson) James. After graduating from Beaver Falls High School, Alesa earned her bachelor’s degree from Duquesne University and her Juris Doctor from Georgetown University Law Center.

Alesa’s legal career included corporate counsel, litigation, and directing housing policy initiatives in Detroit to address the foreclosure crisis. She consulted on environmental policy to support clean air, water, and soil in marginalized communities. Alesa also founded a healthcare nonprofit, working with federal and international organizations to improve access to medical devices for underserved populations.

She was known for her taste in fashion, love of music, global travel, and talent for design. A dedicated daughter, sister, and aunt, Alesa enjoyed buying the perfect gifts for her loved ones. In addition to countless fun and memorable moments with her family, Alesa cherished her time with her childhood and lifelong friends and cousins, including Sandra (Frazier) Evans, Jacqueline Montgomery, Brenda (Madden) Patton, Marcee Richardson, Regina (Williams) Crawford, Shawn (DeBerry) Johnson, and April (Petty) Hauser.

Beaver Falls, Bridge Street, Tabernacle Baptist Church, South School, St. Mary’s, and Beaver Falls High School were where she learned her essential life lessons.

In addition to her father, she is survived by her children, Michael Carr II and Kendal Carr, her sisters, Alexis (Melvin Jr.) Steals and Alaina (Jesse Washington) James and her nieces and nephews: Coletrane, Alanna, Corinne, Zachary, Zora, and Drew.

The family will receive visitors on Saturday, June 21st at 11:00 a.m. with funeral services beginning at noon at Christian Assembly Family Church, 6241 Tuscarawas Road, Industry. Rev. Bill Anzevino will officiate.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the GABAUER-LUTTON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, INC., 117 Blackhawk Road, Beaver Falls.

Michael Alexander Sanko, Sr. (1949-2025)

Michael Alexander Sanko, Sr., 75, of Aliquippa, passed away on June 10th, 2025. He was born on July 17th, 1949, a son of the late Michael and Mary Sanko.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Michael “Moose” Sanko, a brother, John “Butch” Sanko and his niece, Tiffanie Sanko. He is survived by his brother, Daniel (Sharyn) Sanko and his niece, Sunny (Donald) Dillon.
He is also survived by his 2 stepchildren, step-grandchildren, and many loving great nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the Anthony MASTROFRANCESCO FUNERAL HOME INC., 2026 McMinn Street, Aliquippa. 

Connie M. Sano (09/01/49 to 06/10/25)

Connie M. Sano, 75, of South Beaver, passed away Wednesday, June 10, 2025, at Rochester Manor. Born September 1, 1949, in Beaver Falls, she was the daughter of the late Robert and Wilma Cowie Tindall. In her younger years, Connie enjoyed motorcycle rides and singing in her band. She loves to sit outside in the fresh air, but most of all she loves spending time with her family. Surviving is her loving husband, Ronald L. Sano; and many brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and great-great nieces, and great-great-nephews. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, Dennis R. Tindall; in-laws, Mary and Sam Sano; and many brothers-in-laws, sisters-in-law, nieces, and nephews. Friends will be received Tuesday from 2-8 PM in CORLESS-KUNSELMAN FUNERAL SERVICES, LLC – 3801 4th Avenue, Beaver Falls. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Wednesday at 10 AM at St. Augustine Parish, St. Monica Church, 116 Thorndale Drive Beaver Falls, PA 15010. Interment will be private at St. Mary’s Cemetery.

Timothy Michael Best (September 16, 1953 – June 9, 2025)

Timothy Michael Best, 71, beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away unexpectedly at his home in Brighton Township on Monday, June 9, 2025.
Tim was born September 16, 1953 to Mearle and Theresa (Mulgrew) Best. He was preceded in death by his parents and his twin sister, Terri Taormina. He is survived by his wife of 44 years, Margaret “Peggy” (Fischer) Best, three sons and a daughter-in-law, Joseph Best, Brian (Kara) Best, and Paul Best, two grandchildren, Geno Best and Adalyn Best, and his brothers, Ed (Debbie) Best and Ron (Holly) Best, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
Tim was retired from the maintenance department at Heritage Valley Hospital in Beaver, where he worked for approximately 40 years. An avid sports fan, Tim will be greatly missed by his family, especially his three boys, who loved watching games and betting with their dad. Tim also leaves behind his beloved furry companion, Barkley, who always came running at the sound of Tim’s voice. The loss of Tim’s booming laughter will leave a void in the hearts of all who loved him, but his memory will live forever.
Friends will be received on Tuesday June 17, 2025, in the Noll Funeral Home Inc., 333 Third Street, Beaver, PA 15009 from 6pm-8pm. Online condolences may be shared at www.nollfuneral.com.

 

Ruth Cook (May 30, 1934 – June 10, 2025)

Ruth Cook, a devoted nurse, loving mother, and cherished grandmother, passed away at the age of 91 on Tuesday, June 10, 2025.

Ruth was born in 1934 in Butler, PA, to Ralph and Ethel McPherson. Once her children reached school age, she pursued her passion for nursing, graduating from St. Francis Nursing School in 1976 and later earning a master’s degree from Slippery Rock University.

Throughout her career, Ruth provided compassionate care as a school nurse within Hopewell School District and served as Head Nurse at the VA hospital, always committed to the well-being of others. She shared many joyful years with her beloved husband, Robert “Red” Cook, traveling together often.

Ruth was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Cook; her daughter, Susan Trumpeter; her son, William “Billy” Cook; and her daughter, Regina Harr. She is survived by her daughters, Barbara “Barbie” Davies and Laurie Sirko, as well as numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, June 14th, at Mastrofrancesco Funeral Home in Aliquippa, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, followed by a blessing at 11:00 AM. A life well-lived, Ruth’s legacy is one of love, dedication, and adventure. May she rest in peace, surrounded by the memories she created and the love she nurtured.

 

Charles S. Hrelec Sr. (05/02/1927 to 06/10/25)

Charles S. Hrelec, Sr., 98, of Center Township, passed away on June 10, 2025, after a succession of illnesses during the last few years. Chuck was born to the late Evan and Veronica (Ilic) Hrelec at home in Aliquippa on May 2, 1927. He lived through the Great Depression and had many tales of his antics, survival schemes, and dreaded pumpkin and flour soup dinners. It was this boyhood that shaped his appreciation of delicious foods, his simplicity of living, and his flair as a prankster and jokester.

Chuck dropped out of high school to enlist in the Coast Guard as a Steward’s Mate in World War II. There he became a cook and also furthered his pranking skills. After his honorable discharge, he advanced from local recreational baseball to the Pittsburgh Pirates farm team as a pitcher. Two of his fondest baseball memories were pitching against Whitey Ford and meeting and being photographed with Bill Mazeroski.

Chuck met his future wife, Jean E. Domitrovich, also of Croatian heritage, at the Aliquippa A & P, where he was a meatcutter. Nearly inseparable, they were happily married for 51 years. He later worked at several other grocery stores, retiring from Giant Eagle. He continued to cut meat—processing deer for relatives, friends, and local shops.

A longtime resident of Center Township, Chuck was a faithful member of St. John the Baptist Church, SOAR, and 79-year member of ALCRO Lodge. He looked forward to monthly meetings and activities of the Croatian Club. He visited the Motherland 3 times and loved everything Croatian, especially potica and Croatian Day at Kennywood. Chuck enjoyed deer hunting, watching baseball, and baking his gifts of English muffin bread and fruitcake. He was a genuine, loyal, and giving man.

In addition to his beloved wife, Chuck was preceded in death by his devoted daughter, Katrina Kaiser, and cherished brothers, William, John, and George.

His loving children and their spouses who survive him are Cynthia (Dennis) Novotny; Charles S. (Sandra) Hrelec, Jr.; Suzanne (Philip) Knox; Jeanne (Anthony) Ciaccia; and Martina (John) Markowicz; as well as caring son-in-law, Joseph Kaiser; and cherished sister, Caroline McWilliams.

Chuck is also survived by his dear 18 grandchildren and 29 great-grandchildren. His Novotny grandchildren are Katrina, Martina, Aimee, Rebecca, and Dennis; Hrelec grandchildren are Charles, Jason, Candace; Knox grandchildren are Gabriel, Justin, and Amber; Ciaccia grandchildren are Antonio, Veronica, and Joseph; and Markowicz grandchildren are Jessica, Victoria, Angela, and Alexandra. His great-grandchildren are Braylen, Cynthia, Elyse; Charles, Carina; Noah, Jacob, Isaac; Abigail,  Selah, Hadassah; Elena, Henry, Chloe; Cora, Colton; Oliver, Birdie; Franco, Marco, Vera, Enzo; Wade, Rosalyn, Vaughn; Maverick, Vincent; and Geneva and Francesca.

Family and friends will be received on Friday, June 13, 2025, from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Simpson Funeral & Cremation Services, 1119 Washington Avenue, Monaca, where Prayers will be offered Saturday at 9:30 a.m., followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 a.m. at Mary Queen of Saints Parish, St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, Monaca. Interment will follow at the parish cemetery with military honors. Memorial contributions can be made to Maryknoll Fathers & Brothers or Ronald McDonald House.