Joseph W. Mulroy (1938-2025)

Joseph W. Mulroy, 89, of St. Louis, Missouri, formerly of Beaver County, passed away on Wednesday, February 26th, 2025 in The Plaza at Wildwood Senior Living of St. Louis, Missouri.

He was born in St. Petersburg, Florida on March 24th, 1938, the son of the late Andrew R. Mulroy and Mary Gallagher Mulroy. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his special in-laws, Michael and Ann Ehnatko. He is survived by his former wife and best friend, Karen (Ehnatko) Mulroy of St. Louis, Missouri, a sister and a brother-in-law, Mary Pat (John) Tress of Beaver, brother-in-law, Edward Geraghty of Dayton, Ohio and seventeen beloved nieces and nephews. He cherished spending time with his canine friends and will be missed by “Sock”, his last pet. He was also preceded in death by his beloved canine friends and companions: Fluffy, Susie l, Susie ll, Chopper, Kyrian, Lima, Nicky, Luka, and Misha.

His mother and two sisters relocated back to Beaver County, Pennsylvania when he was a young child after the death of his father. Following his graduation from Beaver Falls High School, He did his undergraduate studies at St. Vincent College, Latrobe PA, and graduate studies at the University of West Virginia School of Law. He taught for one-year in the Beaver Falls School District and was appointed under a Federal/State/County funded pilot program as Director of Aging to work with community agencies and people to promote and establish new alternative services for the elderly such as foster homes, day care centers, Meals on Wheels, Etc. Programs which in the early 1960’s mostly did not exist in the country. In this groundbreaking endeavor he was recognized statewide and nationally as a pioneer and innovator in the development and implementation of new programs and services for the elderly. His career in the healthcare industry, in various capacities, spanned over 36 years.

From 1972-74 he served as Executive Vice-president of the Medical Center of Beaver County. In 1974 he was appointed President/CEO of the Medical Center (now known as the Heritage Valley Health System). He was instrumental in overseeing the merger of the former United Hospital (Beaver Falls Providence and New Brighton Beaver Valley General Hospitals) and (Rochester General Hospital). He was singled out by the hospital’s board for directing the move, planning, construction, and opening of the Medical Center in Brighton Township in the mid-1970s. He played a pivotal role in planning and expanding the range of medical specialties, services, programs, and departments at the new Brighton Township Medical Center, many previously unavailable locally. Another highlight during his tenure at the Medical Center was his active hands on involvement in the recruitment of a significant number of new physicians representing a wide range of specialties and the establishment of the hospital’s Family Practice Residency Program and the personal recruitment of one of the leading, nationally recognized cancer medical practice groups to develop, establish and relocated to the Medical Center He always singled out and praised his board for their support and vision in changing the healthcare landscape in Beaver County and never forgot to credit the hospital’s medical staff, employees, and volunteers for making the merger, move, and operation possible and successful.

Prior to joining the Medical Center of Beaver County in 1972 he served as Chief Executive Officer of the Beaver County Home and Hospital (now known as Friendship Ridge) of Brighton Township. He was a nationally recognized leader in the transformation of the nursing home industry and in the field of geriatrics. While at the county facility he was credited with developing and instituting a number of services and programs for the patients and residents previously not available at the facility and at that time only being offered in a few nursing homes in the country. Some of the groundbreaking programs and services included: occupation therapy, diversional therapy, full-time medical staff, establishment of a volunteer auxiliary, patient escort service, snack/gift shop, beauty/barber shop, chapel, a wide range of recreational activities, audiology, optometry, podiatry clinics, and an in-house lab and pharmacy. In the 60’s he established a dedicated section of the facility accredited as a general hospital by the State of Pennsylvania to qualify for Medicare funding for long-term care services previously not covered, to name a few. He always singled out the Beaver County Board of Commissioners, especially the late Senator James E. Ross, Eli Corak, Arthur Pettibon, James Camp, and Bud Pettibon for their support and making the resource available to bring these programs and service to fruition.

His last stint in the healthcare industry was as inaugural President/CEO of St. Louis based AmeriNet from 1986-1997. While at AmeriNet he oversaw the merger of four regional healthcare group purchasing organizations. During his 12-year tenure at the helm of one of the largest GPOs, nationwide annual sales escalated from $276 million in 1986 to over $4.1 billion at the end of 1997. In 1997 the GPO served more than 8,300 hospitals and related medical facilities in all 50 states, representing more than 353,500 beds.

Following retirement from the healthcare industry he along with a partner owned and operated Birdhouse & More, a retail store specializing in backyard birding supplies and then Carmody’s, a local irish neighborhood bar and restaurant. Both businesses were located in the West County St. Louis, Missouri area.

During his career he actively participated in some 38 local, statewide and national community, civic, professional, governmental, educational, and religious boards and agencies. He was past president of the Beaver-Butler-Lawrence County Chapter of the American Red Cross and spearheaded the move, relocation, and construction of the Chapter’s Brighton Township Headquarters. He was the inaugural president of the Pennsylvania State Licensure Board of Nursing Home Administrators. He was a past President of the Serra Club of Beaver County encouraging and fostering vocations for the Catholic priesthood.

In addition, he served on the Board of the Catholic Diocese of Pittsburgh newspaper, “Pittsburgh Catholic” and as a Diocesan Conciliator of the Diocese of Pittsburgh. Other memberships and officer positions included: Slippery Rock State University Board of Directors, Beaver County Mental Health Society, Christmas Seal League of Southwestern Pennsylvania, the Boy Scouts of America-Allegheny Trails Council, Beaver County Chapter of the American Cancer Society, Beaver Valley Chamber of Commerce, Beaver Credit Bureau, Peoples Home Saving Bank, past President of the Pennsylvania Association of County Healthcare Administrators, Beaver County Mental Health and Mental Retardation and the Hospital Council of Western Pennsylvania. He was a past member of Seven Oaks Country Club, the former Beaver Valley Country Club, Beaver Falls Rotary Club. A Life Member of Beaver Falls Elks Lodge# 348 and the Ballwin, MO VFW Auxiliary. He was a charter member of St. Philomena Roman Catholic Church, Beaver Falls. In his lifetime he was honored by numerous organizations for his dedication, work, and tireless efforts on their behalf and in fulfillment of their respective missions.

A funeral memorial Mass will be celebrated on Monday, March 10th at 10 A.M. at Saints Peter and Paul Roman Catholic Church, 200 3rd Street, Beaver, with Father Howard Campbell officiating. At his request, there will be no public visitation or funeral home service, private interment will be held later.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in his name to the Beaver County Humane Society, P.O. Box 63, Monaca, PA 15061, or a charity of choice.

Professional services were entrusted to CORLESS-KUNSELMAN FUNERAL SEERVICES, LLC, 3801 4th Avenue, Beaver Falls.

He was a very outgoing person who loved life, family, helping people, and animals.

Dolores Kolakowski (1929-2025)

Dolores Kolakowski, 95, of Baden, passed away on February 27th, 2025. She was born on May 4th, 1929, the daughter of the late John and Eva Canonico.

She is survived by her children, Mark Kolakowski and Debbie (Joe) Polujan, her brother, Leroy (Dolly) Canonico; her granddaughter, Amber Polujan; and numerous great-grandchildren.

Dolores was a dedicated employee at Verland who was recognized for her hard work and commitment. She had a deep love for animals and enjoyed tending to her garden.

Visitation will take place on Wednesday, March 12th, from 4-7 P.M. at Alvarez-Hahn Funeral Services and Cremation, LLC., 547 8th Street, Ambridge. A blessing service will be held on Thursday, March 13th at 11 A.M. at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Sylvania Hills Cemetery.

Robert Basalyga (1935-2025)

Robert Basalyga, 89, of Ambridge, passed away on February 26th, 2025. He was born on July 6th, 1935, the beloved son of the late Ann Krell. Robert worked as a welding supervisor and will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Details regarding services will be shared at a later date. Services and arrangements are being entrusted to Alvarez-Hahn Funeral Services and Cremation, LLC., 547 8th Street, Ambridge.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to all the staff at Federated Guardians for their compassionate care.

Wayne Pixler (1931-2025)

Wayne Pixler, 93, of Center Township, passed away on February 28th, 2025 surrounded by his beloved family. He was born at home on March 24th, 1931, the son of the late Boyd and Irene Pixler. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 72 years, Adrienne Caler, his father-in-law, Eugene Caler, mother-in-law, Dorothy Caler and a son-in-law, Greg Puhalla. He is survived by three daughters, Linda Puhalla, Bonnie Zelenak, and Cheryl (Tim) McCauley, five grandchildren: Brad Puhalla, Timmy McCauley, Geof (Kim) Puhalla, Cory (Lenka) Zelenak and the sparkle in his eye and only granddaughter, Rachael McCauley; as well as three great grandchildren, Colin, Camryn, and Caitlyn Puhalla.

Wayne passed away at home, the place he built and lived in for 47 years. He was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Aliquippa. He married the love of his life, Adrienne Caler, on July 28th, 1950 and they spent 72 years together.  Wayne devoted his entire life to provide and care for his family. He was the best father, grandfather and great grandfather. There was never a dull or quiet moment with Wayne when he was with his family. He was employed as a Steelworker for 44 years at Jones and Laughlin Steel Corporation. He began working in the Electrical Department in the Seamless Steel Tube prior to graduating from Aliquippa High School in 1949.  He then spent 10 years as a Crane Operator while going to night school.  After graduating from night school, he worked as Lead Electrical Forman working his way up to General Forman of the Maintenance Department.  When the Seamless Steel Tube in Aliquippa closed in 1982, Wayne transferred to J&L Specialty Steel in Midland to finish his career as Superintendent of the Electrical/Maintenance Departments.  He retired in 1993.

Aside from providing for his family, he enjoyed hunting. In his younger years, he would hunt rabbits with his dad.  He always owned a Beagle, and he loved Queenie. He loved deer hunting with his father-in-law Eugene at the cabin they built in Tionesta, Pennsylvania. His deer antlers still hang in the garage. His favorite thing to do was dance the night away with his wife Adrienne. His love for her was one in a million.

A private funeral service will be held on Thursday March 6th, 2025 in the First United Methodist Church of Aliquippa. Private interment will take place in Sylvania Hills Memorial Park.

Memorial contributions may be made to the First United Methodist Church of Aliquippa, 2816 Brodhead Road, Aliquippa, PA 15001.

A very special thanks goes out to his caregivers for their help and kindness in taking care of Wayne.

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

Robert W. Cain (1935-2025)

Robert W. Cain, 90, of White Township, passed away on February 26th, 2025 at Beaver Valley Nursing and Rehabilitation of South Beaver Township.

He was born in New Brighton on January 20th, 1935, in New Brighton, the son of the late Edward F. and Alice (Conway) Cain. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Patricia (Yearick) Cain and sister, Charlotte Circle. He is survived by three sons, Robert and Sharon Cain Jr., Edward and Sheila Cain and Timothy and Tracy Cain, grandchildren: Nicholas Cain, Cameron Harris, Christopher Cain, Amanda Cain, Erica Cain, Victoria Cain, Jeremy Cain, and Tyler Cain; as well as great grandchildren: Luna Brown, Elijah Cain, Darian Matthews, Adrian Matthews and Gavin Matthews. Robert served in the United States Army in Korea where he served as a Private First Class. He retired from Hydril Steel where he was a foreman and worked for the White Township Road department where he was former supervisor.

Services and arrangements were entrusted to the J & J Spratt Funeral Home, 1612 Third Avenue, New Brighton.

Robert will be laid to rest beside his wife Patricia in Grove Cemetery of New Brighton.

Sandra L. Reehl (1952-2025)

Sandra L. Reehl, 72, a native of Brighton Township also known as Sandy, passed away on February 26th, 2025 following an extended illness. She was born on July 26th, 1952, the daughter of the late Constance J. Reehl and Willam M. Reehl Jr. She is survived by her brothers, William M. Reehl III (Kathy Tresnak), Mark Reehl (Trilby Reehl) and Keith Reehl (Linda Hartman-Reehl); as well as beloved nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins and their families.

Sandra graduated from Clarion State College. She worked in banking and in various branches of the Beaver County Library System. She was a lifelong member of Hope Lutheran Church and was involved in many church activities. Sandy loved to make cross stitch embroidery projects, and gifted friends and family with beautiful cross stitch creations. She was a skilled baker, with her specialty being cookies. She baked several varieties at Christmas, as well as chocolate chip cookies year-round. The homemade Chex Mix she baked was also a favorite treat enjoyed by all. She liked music and was especially fond of Joni Mitchell, Dan Fogelberg, and Michael Buble. She loved old Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers and Gene Kelly movies.
Friends will be received on Thursday, March 6th from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. in the Noll Funeral Home Inc., 333 Third Street, Beaver.

In lieu of flowers, please share a story or favorite memory of Sandra. Please go to www.nollfuneral.com to provide memories and condolences.

 

Eugene Carmen Dinello (1952-2025)

Eugene Carmen Dinello, 72, of Raccoon Township, passed away at his home peacefully in his sleep on the morning of February 27th, 2025.

He was born in Beaver Falls on November 17th, 1952, in Beaver Falls, a son of the late Philip and Ida Dinello. Eugene is survived by his wife of 46 years, Carol, two sons and their wives, Kevin and Leslie Dinello of Beaver, and Daniel and Susan Dinello of Center Township, brother, Philip “Skip” (Sandra) DiNello of Winchester, Virginia, sisters, Rose Boak of Ellwood City and Janet Dinello of Beaver Falls; as well as his beloved nieces, nephews and grand puppies.

Eugene loved attending car cruises, relaxing on the porch with a cup of coffee and most of all, he loved spending time with his family and friends. He was a lifelong Christian that will be remembered most for his servant heart and willingness to lend a hand to those in need. He was a graduate of Geneva College and worked as an electrical engineer until his retirement in 2023.

Friends will be received on Wednesday, March 5th, in the Noll Funeral Home Inc., 333 Third Street, Beaver, from 2-4 p.m and 6-8 p.m. A Memorial Service will be held on Thursday, March 6th, at 11 a.m. by Pastor Chris White at North Way Christian Community, Beaver Valley Campus, 300 Brighton Avenue, Suite #101, Rochester, PA 15074. Online condolences may be shared at www.nollfuneral.com.

Donald E. Paff (1931-2025)

Donald E. Paff, 93, passed away on February 26th, 2025 at Franciscan Manor, where he had resided since July of 2021.

He was born in Beaver Falls on November 23rd, 1931, the son of the late Norman A. and Blanche E. Troeter Paff. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his first wife, Mary Kathleen Abels Paff, his infant daughter, Mary, his second wife, Mary (Gurcak) Mengon Paff, his sister, Blanche “Betty” Kennedy and brothers, Lawrence N. Paff and Carl D. Paff.

He is survived by his children: James (Barbara) Paff, Gregory (Colleen) Paff, Donna (Thomas)Campbell, Patricia (William) Snyder and Kathleen (Bruce) Close, 10 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren, his sister-in-law, Roberta M. Paff, brother-in-law, Raymond Abels, numerous nephews, nieces, and special nieces, Mary Elisabeth “Betsie” Markusic and Jerri Walter, his stepchildren: James (Linda) Mengon; Daniel (Caroline) Mengon; Rose LaRocca; Amelia Mengon; Juliet (Joseph) Mancino, Laura (Ed) Duran and Elle Mengon; as well as their children and grandchildren.

Donald was a graduate of both St. Mary’s Catholic School and Beaver Falls High School with the Class of 1950. He was a US Army veteran serving during the Korean War from 1952-1954. He retired from Babcock & Wilcox, McDermott in 1987, after 36 years of service.

After retiring, he worked as a carpenter and handyman. He and Mary traveled the country and abroad.

He perfected his bread and pie making skills and was always happy to send you home with fresh baked dinner rolls. Later they spent their winters in Florida, where he spent his days fishing and watching the blue herons. He was an outdoorsman and enjoyed fishing and hunting with his sons, sons-in-law, grandsons, great-grandsons, and all the guys. Tom’s camp was his favorite place to be. Donald was an active member of Holy Trinity, Divine Mercy Parish and St. Monica Parish.

Interment will take place Wednesday, March 5th at 11 A.M. at St. Mary’s Cemetery of Beaver Falls, where full military honors will be held.

A Memorial Mass will be held Saturday March 15th at 10 A.M. at St. Monica Church, 116 Thorndale Drive, Beaver Falls.

Professional Services were entrusted to CORLESS-KUNSELMAN FUNERAL SERVICES, LLC, 3801 4th Avenue, Beaver Falls.

The family is grateful to the staff at Franciscan Manor and Advanced Hospice for the care and compassion they provided.

Mary Ann Oros (1942-2025)

Mary Ann Oros, 83, a lifelong resident of Aliquippa, passed away on February 27th, 2025. She was born on January 9th, 1942, the daughter of the late Dominic Ranieri and Mary (Shomsky) Ranieri. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Emil Oros and her sister, Anne Ranieri. She is survived by her devoted son, Michael Oros, her loving daughter, Annette Sparrow, her supportive son-in-law, Mark Sparrow and her cherished granddaughters, Claire and Annalise, who brought her endless joy. She is also survived by her dear siblings: Juliann Ranieri, Esther Letrick, Michael (Kathleen Maloney) Ranieri, Elaine (Joseph) Yurkovich and Rosalyn (James) Braun; as well as many loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Mary Ann graduated from Aliquippa High School with the class of 1959.
Mary Ann spent her career working in various roles, including as a legal secretary, medical secretary and typist, before retiring as an Integrated Claims Specialist from First Health in 2006. She was known for her strong work ethic and attention to detail.
In her free time, Mary Ann enjoyed being part of a card club, book club, Christian Women, and Bible study group. She also liked playing bingo and most of all, spending time with family and friends. She was a member of Mary, Queen of Saints Parish, Our Lady of Fatima Church, the Christian Mothers, the Third Order of Saint Francis and the Saint Anthony Congregation. Her faith and church community were important parts of her life.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, March 4th from 9:30-10:30 a.m. in the ANTHONY MASTROFRANCESCO FUNERAL HOME, INC. 2026 McMinn Street Aliquippa. Departing prayers will begin at 10:30 am. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, March 4th at 11 a.m. in Our Lady of Fatima Church, 2270 Broadhead Road, Aliquippa.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Mary Ann’s memory to Sisters of St. Joseph 1020 State Street Baden, PA 15005. Burial will take place at Mt. Olivet Cemetery.

Miriam O. (Eichhorn) Wolf (1934-2025)

Miriam O. (Eichhorn) Wolf, 91, of Moon Township, passed away on February 23rd, 2025 in Caring Heights Community Care of Coraopolis. She was born in Pittsburgh on January 12th, 1934, the daughter of the late John G. Eichhorn & Mamie (Donley) Eichhorn. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Richard N. Wolf, two sons, Richard Wolf and Timothy Wolf and a brother, Kenneth L. Eichhorn. She is survived by her son, Kenneth C. Wolf (Melanie) of Moon Township, two grandchildren, Sara J. Wolf and Jonathan S. Wolf (Kaitlyn) and her great grandson, Maverick Wolf.

Miriam worked for forty-seven years as a registered Nurse at Allegheny General Hospital.

Friends will be received on Monday, March 3rd from 3-7 P.M. in the Huntsman Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Moon Township, 1522 Coraopolis Heights Road, where a funeral service will take place on Tuesday, March 4th at 11 A.M. Private interment will take place at Mt. Royal Cemetery, Glenshaw.

Memorial contributions can be made to Sharon Community Presbyterian Church, 522 Carnot Rd, Moon Township, PA 15108.