Robert O. Brooks (Passed on August 25th, 2025)

Robert O. Brooks, 63, of Brighton Township, passed away on August 25th, 2025, at Heritage Valley Beaver with his best friend Lorri by his side. He was born in New Castle, Pennsylvania and was preceded in death by his loving mother, Shirley Brooks and his wife, Lisa Brooks. He is survived by his father, Robert W. Brooks, a special needs daughter, Shannon Brooks, a son, Joshua (Stephanie) Brooks and their children Delaney and Levi, and his brother, Shawn Brooks, who will carry forward the bond of brotherhood. Robert’s companion, Lorri Haywood, shared with him a nurturing and steadfast relationship. He is also remembered by Lorri’s daughters, Kristi Main and Lorri’s special needs daughter, Emily, and Kristi’s two daughters, Lyla and Luci.

Robert’s life was one of hard work, exemplified through his career as a sheet metal worker from Union Local #12. Robert was a man of many interests who was a life member of the National Rifle Association. His passion for the outdoors was undeniable and was an avid duck hunter and found solace in fishing. His artistic talent was another facet of his life.

In accordance with Robert’s wishes, there will be no services. Arrangements have been entrusted to Simpson Funeral and Cremation Services, 1119 Washington Avenue, Monaca.

Dr. David M. Schulte (1968-2025)

Dr. David M. Schulte, 57, of Midland, passed away unexpectedly on August 22nd, 2025, at Allegheny General Hospital of Pittsburgh.

He was born in Dayton, Ohio on May 20th, 1968, a son of Beatrice Marciniak Schulte with whom Dr. David and his family resided with and the late Martin V. Schulte, Sr. In addition to his mother, he is survived by his beloved wife, Yuqun Zhou Schulte, two children, Zehao Wu and Halina Yiwen Schulte, his siblings, Matthew M. Schulte, Jean L. Schulte-Tosh and Martin V. Schulte, Jr., his nephew and three nieces.

Dr. David graduated with the last graduating class of Lincoln High School of Midland. He got a BS in Biology of Marine and Environmental at Millersville University of Millersville, Pennsylvania, an MS in Marine Science from William and Mary College of Williamsburg, Virginia and a PhD in Marine Science at William and Mary College, Virginia Institute of Marine Science. For him, earning his PhD in 2024 was his crowning academic achievement. David retired from the Norfolk District Army Corps of Engineers in 2024 serving as a Regional Technical Specialist Oceanographer/Ecologist for 25 years. While employed, he received numerous awards, such as the Coastal America Award from the White House, for his work regarding oyster restoration and climate change studies. In addition, he published in the journal Science, Nature, and Frontiers in Climate on climate change affecting Tangier Island, VA and oyster restoration. Through his publications, he pioneered novel methods of reef building that massively improved reef health in the Chesapeake Bay and earned the largest oyster restoration grant in North America totaling 300 million dollars. His advocacy for climate change awareness and oyster restoration extended beyond academia. He and his work were featured in the New York Times, Washington Post, Reuters, and numerous international media outlets. He was a steadfast champion for the Tangier Islanders and other Eastern Shore Communities. Furthermore, David contributed as an expert consultant for the documentary film, “Been Here, Stay Here”, which captures the way of life and climate change related to the plight of Tangier Island, VA. He was also a principal contributor in the production of another Chesapeake Bay documentary with Black Spot Films. Beyond professional achievements, he was also a professional bodybuilder and powerlifter for over 40 years, heralded as one of the strongest men in Norfolk, Virginia. He trained in various martial arts from Aikido and Kendo. He was also an excellent archer skilled at sharpshooting. At home, he enjoyed investing his energies into his Koi ponds, bonsais, vegetable and flower gardens, axolotls, and coral reef tanks. He was a talented consummate who thoroughly enjoyed the outdoors. He also enjoyed taking long walks with his family in the Botanical Gardens. He was also a beloved dog owner. His connections to his dogs, “Chief”, “Lee”, “Murphy”, “Cherry” and “Tudou,” were a central part of his life. He was an avid reader in both novels and scientific literature. For all activities, he shared his wisdom and joy with his family. He commanded respect from his colleagues and neighbors. As a young boy, David was introduced to marine biology when he attended a lecture given by Jean-Michel Cousteau. From that time forward, David pursued his passion for studying the ocean and its inhabitants. Throughout his life David’s love, honor and sense of duty was found within and beyond his beloved Midland community. His conviction to helping the environment and the people endangered by climate change always stood strong no matter the pressure and resistance. His gentle mentorship guided his children to pursue their interests and passions. His love for his family and friends was immeasurable and for that we will be forever grateful.

The family has entrusted a private family service for Dr. David to the Schwerha-Noll Funeral Home, 629 Midland Avenue, Midland who was in charge of his arrangments. Interment will follow in the Beaver Cemetery.

Matthew P. Sweeney (1959-2025)

Matthew P. Sweeney, 66, of Rochester, passed away on August 22nd, 2025.

He was born in Beaver Falls on April 1st, 1959, the son of Josephine “Jo” Donovan Sweeney and the late Thomas E. Sweeney, Sr. In addition to his father, he was preceded in death by a brother, Dennis W. Sweeney. In addition to his mother, he is survived by three brothers, Thomas E. Sweeney, Jr. of Pittsburgh, Timothy D. Sweeney of Virginia Beach and Daniel Sweeney, Sr. of Rochester and a sister, Mary Ann Blake of Columbia, Maryland and his nieces and nephews: Mary Watts, Kate Sweeney, Jessica Sweeney, Sara Blake, Ty Sweeney and Daniel Sweeney, Jr, William T. Sweeney, Daniel Blake and Adam Blake.

Matthew was practicing Catholic. He was a graduate of Loyola University of Chicago, Illinois and the John Marshall Law School of Chicago, Illinois. He will be remembered as a private, loving and caring person.

A Mass of Christian burial will be held on Thursday, August 28th, at 10 a.m. in St. Cecilia Church, 632 Virginia Avenue, Rochester with Fr. Paul Kuppe officiating.

Inurnment will follow in St. James Cemetery, 417 Water Works Road, Sewickley.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the J&J Spratt Funeral Home, 1612 Third Avenue, New Brighton.

Gerald (Jerry) Trimble (1946-2025)

Gerald (Jerry) Trimble, 78, of Chippewa Township, passed away on August 27th, 2025, at Heritage Valley Beaver.

He was born on October 24, 1946, a son of the late Joseph C. and Helen (Kachmar) Trimble. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Joseph L. Trimble. He is survived by his wife of 56 years, the former Marilyn Kimmel. In addition to his wife, he is also survived by a son and daughter-in-law, Alan Trimble and Nikki (Goedeker) Trimble and two grandsons, Brayden and Evan Trimble of Chippewa Township, a sister and brother-in-law, Marilynn and Mark Spellman of Amhurst, Ohio, a sister-in-law, Laurie Schepisi and her husband, Skip of Bonita Springs, Florida, a sister-in-law, Roxanne Mesesan and her husband Tom of Harmony, Pennsylvania, a sister-in-law, Joan Trimble and an aunt, Carmella Nuzzo, both of New Castle, as well as six nieces and nephews.

Gerald graduated from Shenango High School in 1964 and from Slippery Rock University in 1968 where he also earned his master’s degree in education. He went on to teach high school chemistry for 35 years, beginning in 1968 at Wilmington High School for 7 years before moving to Shenango High School for the remainder of his career.  He retired in 2003. Jerry made the most of his retirement traveling throughout the United States with his wife, Marilyn. He also enjoyed cooking, home winemaking, painting in oils, acrylics, and water colors and working on projects around the house and yard. After living most of their lives in Shenango Township, New Castle, Jerry and Marilyn moved to Chippewa Township, Beaver County, to be closer to their family.

In accordance with Gerald’s wishes, there will be no calling hours.  The family plans to have a celebration of life for Gerald at a later date. Arrangements have been entrusted to the branch of Gabauer Funeral Homes.

Anyone wishing to make memorial contributions can do so in his name to the Beaver County Humane Society, 3394 Brodhead Road, Center Township, PA 15001.

Online condolences may be viewed or given by visiting www.gabauerfamilyfuneralhomes.com.

Mary Elizabeth Kughn (1949-2025)

Mary Elizabeth Kughn, 76, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and sister, passed away on August 25th, 2025 surrounded by her loving family. She was born at Butler Hospital on April 25th, 1949, a daughter of the late Scott C. and Sarah Kane Davidson. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her loving husband of 50 years, Larry “Mr. Kughn”, and her beloved daughter, Melanie S. Kughn. Mary and her sister were raised lovingly by their grandmother, Mary Pearle (Dunlap) Kane and grandfather John Kane, both of Unionville, as well as her uncle, Sylvester “Uncie” Kane whom she was very fond of. She is survived by relatives including her sister, Sylvia L. and Ed Stedina of Conway, South Carolina, her loving daughters, Marcy R. Kughn and Evan “Coffin” Lavsa of New Sewickley Township, Missy E. and John R. Gardner III of New Sewickley Township, and her grandchildren, Caleb E. Celender and Tara E. and Cristofer Coats, also of New Sewickley and her nephew, David and her great-niece, Raegan Sayer, both of East Palestine, Ohio, two brother-in-laws, Charles “Lynn” Kughn, of Lafayette, Louisiana, and Lyle Kughn of New Sewickley.

Mary worked many years as a nurse for Dr. Nadler and associates of Beaver, and loved what she did and all of the patients she cared for. She also worked part time for Home Depot of Cranberry Township for many years. She helped coach for the New Sewickley girls’ softball teams, loved to attend ceramics classes with her friends, as well as camping, was a member of Wolf’s Den Camping Resort, an active member of Unionville United Methodist Church, of which she was in the Church Woman’s Club, and learned how to make every craft you can think of throughout the years.

Mary didn’t have a mean bone in her body, but if she wouldn’t tell you what to do and if you didn’t do it her way, you were in trouble. She had to be convinced to retire at the age of 71, but enjoyed every second of retirement when she did. She had more of a social life than anyone else in her family, and made sure you knew it. If she wasn’t at camp with her friends, she was out shopping, at the movies, or getting her nails done.

Mary liked to bake a next batch of cookies, dancing to oldies, “collecting”, planting flowers at the pearly gates, watching the Pirates game from the best seat in the house, and starting a list for everyone who needs their jeans patched.

If you can, play a round of cards for Mary this weekend, and the next.

Family and friends will received on Thursday, August 28th, from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m., at the William Murphy Funeral Home, 349 Adams Street, Rochester, who was in charge of his where a service will be held on Friday, August 27th at 11 a.m. Her pastor Reverend Barry Fowler will officiate. Interment will take place afterwards at Oak Grove Cemetery.

Harrison Bacon (1931-2025)

Harrison Bacon, 94, of Canonsburg, passed away on August 23rd, 2025 at UPMC Washington. He was born in Midland on April 16th, 1931, a son of the late William M. and Elizabeth Bacon.In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his loving wife, Janice Rosalie Thomas Bacon and 8 brothers and sisters. He is survived by his three children, Prudence E. (Douglas Plum) Bacon-Benson, Spencer C (Karen A.) Bacon and Jules S.C. (Karen L. Mejia) Bacon, eight grandchildren, along with numerous great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews as well as his adopted family and Joe “Chip” Winstead. Harrison was a veteran of the U.S. Army, serving during the Korean War. Harrison was known to all as a devoted Jehovah’s Witness. His faith was the cornerstone of his life, leading him to be deeply involved in his community, giving selflessly of his time and resources. He spent almost 40 years volunteering at the local food bank, touching countless lives along the way. He was a dedicated laborer by trade and was a proud member of the Local Labor Union 833. He was a man who thrived on activity, from yard work to climbing on the roof, he approached every task with vigor and enthusiasm. Despite his active lifestyle, Harrison also had a softer side. He was a lover of literature and photography, using these hobbies as a means to express his creative side. Above all, he cherished the opportunity to teach and share his knowledge with others, carrying this passion into his preaching about the Lord. Harrison was a man of many facets, each one contributing to the rich tapestry that made up his extraordinary life. Friends will be received on Thursday, August 28th from 4 P.M. until the time of service at 6 P.M. at Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 3122 37th Street Extension, Beaver Falls. Professional services and arrangements were entrusted to CORLESS-KUNSELMAN FUNERAL SERVICES, LLC, 3801 4th Avenue, Beaver Falls. Interment will be private at the National Cemetery of the Alleghenies, 1158 Morgan Road, Bridgeville.

Roberta C. “Bobbi” Lovas (Passed on August 24th, 2025)

Roberta C. “Bobbi” Lovas, 78, formerly of Baden and Michigan, passed away on August 24th, 2025.

She was a daughter of the late John Francis and Leona Lovas. She was a person of intelligence and wit. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister, Patricia Hood, her niece, Saundra Hood Eansor and her brother-in-law, Frank Birner. She is survived by her sister, Loretta Birner of Center Township, who will fondly remember the bond they shared. She is also survived by her nieces and nephews: Jeanette (Jerry) Roach, Robert (Carol) Hood, Brian (Heidi) Hood, and David (Mellory) Birner, as well as her great-nieces and great-nephews. She was a proud graduate of St. Veronica High School in Ambridge. Her quest for knowledge took her to Robert Morris University, where she furthered her education and prepared for a career that would take her to remarkable places, including the corridors of the Pentagon. She later transitioned into a role as a legal secretary for a large law firm in the District of Columbia. Roberta found joy in crafting. Her creations, often given as Christmas gifts, were more than mere objects. They were expressions of her love and creativity.

Graveside services will be held at a later date at Divine Redeemer Cemetery of Fair Oaks.

The family has suggested those wishing a make a memorial contribution in Roberta’s memory to please consider the Beaver County Humane Society, 3394 Broadhead Road, Aliquippa, PA 15001.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Simpson Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 1119 Washington Avenue, Monaca.

Kathy Bushik (1941-2025)

Kathy Bushik, 84, passed away on August 18th, 2025. She was born on May 17th, 1941, the daughter of the late Andrew Bushik and Kathryn Chelak Bushik. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother. Kathy was loved by her cousins and many friends over the years. She was a colorful character who loved to cook and entertain for those she loved. Cooking was a passion for Kathy. She was a most generous hostess and was willing to share her talents with anyone who was interested in learning or sampling her cooking skills. Kathy was also a huge animal lover, always giving to animal charities and providing a loving home to her two rescue dogs, Gidget and Boomer. She worked hard, laboring as a bartender, steel worker, and custodian. Her custodial job at Community College of Beaver County added many long-time friendships to her life, and she did her best to maintain those relationships over the years. Kathy brought laughter to many people, even up to the end of her life, where she shared her vibrant personality with the nurses and staff of her nursing home and hospice care. She will be deeply missed by all her friends and her two special cousins, Regina and Carol.

Services are private and services and arrangements have been entrusted to Alvarez-Hahn Funeral Services and Cremation, LLC, 547 8th Street, Ambridge.

Barbara Jean Inman (1937-2025)

Barbara Jean Inman, 88, of North Sewickley Township, passed away on August 25th, 2025.
She was born on April 1st, 1937, a daughter of the late Evelyn Schaeffer Cooper Hohla and Lester Cooper. In adidition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her grandsons, Stephen Inman and David Koch Jr., a brother, James Cooper and a sister, Ruth Cooper. She is survived by her husband of 69 years, Ernest Inman, Jr., her three children, Bruce (Holly) Inman, Mark Inman, Pamela (Jeff) Detrich, her grandchildren: Adam (Heather) Inman, Stephen (Jennifer) Inman, Josh Inman, Matthew Koch, Stephanie (Joseph) Plassmeyer, Justin (Kathy) Inman, Jennifer Baumgartel, Danielle (Will) Florillo, Kathy (Nathan) Clark, Mary (Branden) Tyler, Kristyna Detrich; as well as 23 great grandchildren, her brothers: Chester Cooper Sr., George (Nancy) Hohla, John (Linda) Hohla, Jerry (Marge) Cooper; along with her sisters: Mary (Steve) Matkin, Linda (Ken) Alexander and Sandy (John) Janicki. Barbara was the heart of her family and a woman of deep faith with unwavering strength and boundless love. She was a member of New Sewickley Presbyterian Church where she enjoyed the close friendships of the congregation and Pastor, she was a past Deacon of the First United Presbyterian Church of Bridgewater. In accordance with Barbara’s wishes, there will be no public viewing.  All who knew and loved her are welcome to attend a Celebration of her Life and Faith to be held on Saturday, August 30th at the New Sewickley Presbyterian Church 101 Big Knob Road, Rochester at 11 a.m. with a luncheon to follow that day. Arrangements have been entrusted to the branch of Huntsman Funeral Homes.

Charles Robert “Chuck” Matthews (1942-2025)

Charles Robert “Chuck” Matthews, 83, of Independence Township, passed away peacefully on August 23rd, 2025, in the comfort of his home surrounded by his family.

He was born in Pittsburgh on February 2nd, 1942, the son of the late Charles and Ethel (Black) Matthews. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sisters, Lois Martin and Eleanor Harr and his son-in-law, Tom Polster. He is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Carol (Jones) Matthews, four daughters, Christine (Dan) McLaughlin, Suzanne (Dennis) Rich, Colleen (Mike) Matthews and Michelle Polster, his grandchildren: Brandon, Zackery, Madison (Chad), Thomas, Jonathan, Luc and Joshua, one great granddaughter, Maci, his sister, Linda Matthews, his sister-in-law, Susan Jones, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

Chuck had worked for many years in engineering at Industrial Resources in Carnegie.  He was a devoted family man and was very active in his church Prince of Peace in Aliquippa. Chuck’s wishes for cremation will be honored and a memorial service will be held at a later date.

The GABAUER-LUTTON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, INC., 117 Blackhawk Road, Beaver Falls, was in charge of his arrangements and was honored to provide care and guidance to Chuck’s family during this time.