Joseph Anthony George (Passed on January 15th, 2025)

Joseph Anthony George, 86, a longtime resident of Hanover Township, passed away on January 15th, 2025 at his home.

He was born in Pittsburgh and was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph P. George and Lena T. (Trabasso) George, as well as his step daughter Sheryl Marie Krizan, sister Flora George and brother, Robert E. George. He leaves behind his beloved wife of nearly 26 years, Patricia Ann Antoline George, whom he married in the picturesque town of Covington, Virginia, on March 26th, 1999. He is survived by two sons, Joseph Anthony George and John Paul George, his wife, Deanna, three grandsons, Jacob, Brandon, and Justin George, a nephew, Robert and a niece, Karen.

Joseph was a man of many firsts, including being the first child to be born in a hospital in his family. He grew up in the vibrant neighborhoods of Hazelwood, Brookline, and later Baldwin, before finally setting roots in Hanover Township on July 14th, 1975.

His legacy of devotion to family, community, and country is a testament to his character.

Joseph’s dedication to his family was matched by his commitment to his career and civic duties. He was a skilled heavy equipment operator and a proud 60-year member of Operating Engineer Local Union 66. His service to his community was further exemplified by his tenure as a longtime Hanover Twp Supervisor.

A patriot through and through, Joseph served in the U.S. Army from 1961 to 1963. As a combat engineer, he was recognized as an honor graduate from military training courses, a reflection of his dedication and excellence.

Beyond his service and career, he was an entrepreneur at heart, founding George’s Enterprises and Follansbee Pawn. His passion for cars, heavy equipment, and all things mechanical was not just a hobby but a way of life that he enthusiastically embraced.

As those reflect on Joseph’s life, we remember a man of integrity, strength, and compassion.

Joseph’s remains will be interred with military honors in the National Cemetery of the Alleghenies of Bridgeville. Arrangements have been entrusted to Simpson Funeral and Cremation Services of Monaca.

Chad “Boogz” Michael Brown (1980-2025)

Chad “Boogz” Michael Brown, 44, passed away on January 16th, 2025 in New Brighton. He was born in Beaver on October 12th, 1980, a son of Joanne (Tice) Vrabel and the late Todd Brown. In addition to his father, Chad was preceded in death by his four grandparents Paul and Florence Brown, Joseph Lee Tice and Cherry (Rainer) Tice, and his brother-in-law Gregory Wiland. In addition to his mother, he is survived by his loving wife Amanda (Wiland) Brown, son, Cooper Todd Brown, mother, Joanne “Red” (Tice) Vrabel, two brothers, Ryan Brown and Zack Vrabel, father and mother-in-law, Gary and Nancy Wiland, sister-in-law, Leann Wiland and his beloved dog, Geno.

Chad grew up with a passion for sports, especially baseball, which led him to play at Mercyhurst University, where he played the sport, he loved. It was during his time at Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP), however, that he met the love of his life, Amanda.

Chad worked as a lead clerk at the United States Postal Service. Beyond his career, Chad’s true passion was his family. He made every effort to create special moments and lasting memories with his loved ones. He had a tight-knit group of friends who were like family to him. Whether it was sharing a laugh, watching a game, or keeping long-standing traditions alive, Chad’s energetic personality always made him the life of the party.

He will be remembered for his amazing sense of humor, boundless energy, and the kindness that made him well-loved by all who knew him. His love for sports was matched only by his love for his family and friends.

Family and friends will be received on Monday, January 20th from 2 p.m. until the time of a Blessing Service at 6 p.m. in the J & J Spratt Funeral Home, 1612 3rd Avenue New Brighton, with Father Howard Campbell officiating.

Joseph Jahoda (1960-2025)

Joseph Jahoda, 64, of Ambridge, passed away on January 17th, 2025, at Heritage Valley Sewickley. He was born on November 19th, 1960, the son of the late Ruth (Hare) and Stephen Jahoda. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers: Robert “Bucky” Jahoda, Martin Jahoda, William “Bill” Jahoda and Stephen Jahoda Jr.; his sisters: Donna Sharek, Carol Jahoda, Kathy Prokurat, Mary Lou Jahoda, and Sandra “Pete” Jahoda; along with his brother-in-law, David Sharek.

He is survived by his sons, Brent (Mary Frances) Jahoda and Aaron (Allison) Jahoda, daughter, Lauren Jahoda, brothers, James Jahoda, Jerome Jahoda and Michael Jahoda, sisters: Karen (James) Prince, Susan Jahoda, Roxanne (Barry) Fitzgerald and Kim (Charles) Dworchak; brother-in-law, Michael Huppenthal, sister-in-law, Eva Jahoda and numerous nieces and nephews.

A man of many talents, Joseph was a skilled craftsman who enjoyed working with his hands. He spent many years building houses in the Sewickley area. Joseph also coached baseball and was an avid Pittsburgh sports fan.

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

Thelma M. Kauffman (1942-2025)

Thelma M. Kauffman, 82, of Beaver, passed away on January 15th, 2025.

She was born in McKeesport on August 7th, 1942, the younger daughter of the late Albert and Felicia Cellerini. In addition to her parents, Thelma was preceded in death by her sister, Virginia Kovalyak.  She is survived by her husband George, her daughter Marie (John) Hellgoth of Downingtown, Pennsylvania, her son Matthew (Tandy) Kauffman of Apex, North Carolina, four grandsons: Nicholas and Christopher Hellgoth and Nathan and Michael Kauffman; a brother-in-law, Frederick Kovalyak of Ellicott City, Maryland, two nieces, Kimberley (Edward) Valaer of Ashburn, Virginia and Christine Kovalyak of Columbia, Maryland, a nephew, Gregory (Donna) Kovalyak of Leesburg, Virginia and two great-nieces, Julie and Amanda Kovalyak.

Their family moved to Beaver in 1948. She graduated from Beaver High School in 1960 and Geneva College in 1964. Thelma married her college sweetheart, George E. Kauffman of West Bridgewater on October 10th, 1964. Thelma was a loving and devoted wife, mother, and grandmother.

After leaving Beaver in 1965, the Kauffmans lived in Morgantown, West Virginia, Schwetzingen, Germany, Olean, New York, Pittsburgh, Tel Aviv, Israel and Columbia, Maryland. After retiring, they returned to Beaver in 2006.

The family is especially grateful to the Allegheny Heath Network Staff, who enabled Thelma to stay in her home during her later years.

In accordance with Thelma’s wishes, there will be no viewing or visitation.

Professional arrangements have been entrusted to the Noll Funeral Home, Inc., 333 Third Street, Beaver.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, January 20th at 10 a.m. at Saints Peter and Paul Roman Catholic Church, 200 Third Street, Beaver. Burial will follow in Beaver Cemetery.

Judith “Judy” DeChicko (1957-2025)

Judith “Judy” DeChicko, 67, of Beaver Falls, passed away on January 13th, 2025 at her residence. She was born in Beaver Falls on December 9th, 1957, a daughter of the late Eugene and Jane (MacDonald) DeChicko. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, Joseph DeChicko. She is survived by her sister, Joyce (Chester) Ciccozzi and her two nephews, Cole and Blake Ciccozzi.

Judith retired from Cigna Insurance as a transplant case manager. She also worked as an RN at the Medical Center in Beaver for many years. She enjoyed going to yard sales, thrift stores and flea markets with her sister. She especially liked going to Mountaineer playing the slot machines, and hanging out at Pier 19 with her friends.

In accordance with Judith’s wishes, there will be no viewing or services.

The family would like to thank her neighbor, Mrs. Edie Boxen, for always looking out for her.

Arrangements were taken care of by Corless-Kunselman Funeral Services, LLC, 3801 4th Avenue, Beaver Falls.

Somesh C. Bose (1940-2024)

Somesh C. Bose, 84, of Moon Township, passed away on December 25th, 2024.  He was born in Patna, India on July 23rd, 1940, a son of the late Amaresh Bose and Renuka (née Sen) Bose. He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Pompa (née Roy Chowdhury) Bose, their two sons, Rajesh Bose and his companion Scanlynn Daniel, Neilesh Bose and his wife Melia, beloved granddaughter Chandni Joya Belli Bose, sister Mani M. Majumdar, brother Samiresh C. Bose and his companion Vlasta Stastna.

Somesh had a long and successful career as a civil and structural engineer. He earned a Bachelor’s degree from the Bengal College of Engineering and Technology (B.E. College) in West Bengal, India.  He left India as a young man to pursue higher education in the U.K., and then established his career in the United States. He holds a Master of Science from the University of Southampton in Civil Engineering as well as a Master of Business Administration from Robert Morris University.  His meticulous nature, relentless work ethic and wry humor served him well in his career and helped him navigate life with adventure and determination. He was dedicated and selfless in service to his family. His family will cherish the enduring values and guidance he imparted to them. Arrangements have been entrusted to the branch of Huntsman Funeral Home and Cremation Services.

Palma P. (Pollice) Simonette (1929-2025)

Palma P. (Pollice) Simonette, 95, of Ingram, passed away on January 15th, 2025 in The Willows of Oakmont. She was born in Coraopolis on July 7th, 1929, the daughter of the late Dr. Adelmo & Mary (DeJuliis) Pollice. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband Joseph N. Simonette, a great-grandson Jeremiah Simonette and brothers, Philip Pollice MD, Felix Pollice, & Eugene Pollice MD. She is survived by her son Joseph Felix Simonette (Chris) of Ross Township, four grandchildren: Amber Myers, Joseph Simonette, Sabrina Simonette & Santino Simonette, four great grandchildren: Ameira, Maisie, Joseph & Olive; along with her sister Jill Mowry.

Friends will be received on Sunday, January 19th from 1-5 P.M. in the Huntsman Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Moon Township, 1522 Coraopolis Heights Road, where a funeral service will be held on Monday, January 20th at 10 A.M.  Interment will follow at Calvary Catholic Cemetery of Pittsburgh.

Dona L. Eckman (1937-2025)

Dona L. Eckman, 87, of Beaver Falls, passed away on January 13th, 2025 at Providence Health and Rehab Center. She was born in Beaver Falls on November 15th, 1937, the daugther of the late Raymond and Eleanor Eckman. She is survived by her three children, son, Scott (Doreen) Hezlep, daughters Cheryl (Richard) Winkle and Susan (Joseph) Kantz, six grandchildren: James (Cassie) Hezlep, Kevin (Stephanie) Hezlep, Jason (Heather) Winkle, Lynnsey (Tony) Savina, Abigail (Benjamin) Helmick and Adam Kantz and eight great-grandchildren: Emma, Scarlett, Sophie, Aubree, Ryleigh, Jameson, Jaxson, Eliana and one on the way.

Dona was a very loving daughter, cousin, aunt, wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She always put everyone before herself. She was a woman of many talents. Dona was the head majorette throughout high school in Beaver Falls, a bank teller, worked for Schmuckers Jelly, a cashier supervisor at K-Mart, and an entrepreneur, who owned and operated her own business for 20 years as a dog groomer.

In her retirement, she became an avid puzzle builder, enjoyed making crafts, but most of all, Dona loved spending quality time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

A public visitation will be held on Sunday, January 19th at 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. and on Monday, January 20th at 10-11 a.m. with a funeral service at 11 a.m. with Rev. Dr. David S. Oyler officiating at Corless-Kunselman Fruneral Services, LLC 3801 4th Avenue, Beaver Falls, followed with a private interment at Grandview Cemetery.

Carol Ann Robinson (1937-2025)

Carol Ann Robinson, 87, of Center Township, passed away at her residence surrounded by her family on January 9th, 2025.

She was born in Sewickley on December 23rd, 1937, the daughter of the late Steven and Catherine (Gregarus) Hettish. She is survived by her husband, Lesley C. Robinson, two sons, Timothy (Cynthia) Robinson and Ronald (Monica) Robinson, four grandchildren: Amy Robinson, Abigail Robinson, Sean (Renee) Robinson, and Ryan Robinson; along with two great-grandchildren, Connor and Chace.

Carol was a sales associate at Sears and a member of St. Frances Cabrini Church, part of Mary, Queen of Saints Parish. Carol fiercely loved her family and enjoyed spending time with them. Her humor and quick wit always lit up a room. She will be deeply missed.

All services for Carol were private along with an entombment at Sylvania Hills Memorial Park. Arrangements have been entrusted to the branch of Gabauer Funeral Homes.

Mary Angela Castelli (1930-2025)

Mary Angela Castelli, 94, of Hamilton, New Jersey, formerly of Midland, passed away on January 13, 2025 surrounded by her loving daughters.
She was born in Midland on July 6th, 1930, the daughter of the late Bianca and Joseph Pichelli. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Henry, (Herk), and her 2 brothers, Louie and Ovidio, (Vejo).Mary is survived by her dearest and loving sister and brother-in-Law, Lucy and Raymond Presutti whose love, support and assistance were always there through the years and appreciated far beyond words could express. She is also survived by her children and their spouses, Teresa and Daun Wells of Hamilton, New Jersey, Gina and John Zapicchi of Trenton, New Jersey, and Terrance and Denise Castelli of Indianapolis, Indiana, along with her grandchildren, Justin (Angela), Kristin (Devin), Jessica and Daniella, her five great-grandchildren: Roman, Leo, Trevin, Kaia and Silas; her dearest Neighbors from the “Hill,” Frances (Camaioni) and Goldie (Felekey) and all her dearest friends and her numerous special nieces and nephews.

Mary had been a faithful member of both Saint Blaise Church of Midland, part of St. Augustine Parish and the St. Anthony Club. Although Mary moved to be with her daughters Teresa and Gina in 2007, she never lost her love for her beloved home of Midland.

A thank you goes out to everyone at the Juniper Village of Hamilton, New Jersey and Serenity Hospice Care who provided exceptional care and attention to her during her time with them.
Friends will be received on Sunday, January 19th, from 3-6 P.M. in the Schwerha- Noll Funeral Home, 629 Midland Ave, Midland. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, January 20th at 10:30 A.M. at St. Blaise Church, 772 Ohio Avenue, Midland. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Noll Funeral Home, Inc., 333 Third Street, Beaver. Online condolences may be shared at www.nollfuneral.com.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Mary’s name to St. Blaise Church, St. Augustine Parish or The St. Anthony Club of Midland.