Shirley Lee (Gibson) Pow, 88, passed away on June 14th, 2025. She was born on October 26th, 1936 in Clarksburg, West Virginia, a daughter of the late James F. and Pauline Primm Gibson.
Shirley loved her family, being a teacher, her Front Porch Bible Study ladies, the Steelers, and a Kretchmar’s cookie or two. In addition to her parents, Shirley was preceded in death by her husband, Richard Burn Pow, her sister, Patricia Ann (Gibson) Seaman and her step-granddaughter, Estrella Jamie Soto.
She is survived by her daughter, Paula Soto, granddaughter, Cassidy Soto, her nieces and nephews, Kathy (Tom) Fiala, Karen Allcorn and Leonard (Tami) Seaman and her great nieces and nephews: Lauren Fiala, Lindsey (Shawn) Cramer, Natalie (Dom) Musilli, Helen Allcorn, Justin (Hillary) Seaman, Brendan Seaman, Ethan Seaman, Charlotte Cramer and Gwen Musilli.
She was dedicated to bridging divides of any kind: educational, racial, economic, familial, environmental, political and cultural, but Shirley valued above all, friendship, faith, hospitality, and storytelling.
In her final years, she was a resident of the Inn at Whitewood Village in North Canton, Ohio, where her niece and nephew provided consistent care through her battle with dementia. Anyone who knows Shirley well, knows how much she disliked dying in Cleveland Browns territory: and treasured her regular visits back to the hometown of her heart, Beaver, Pennsylvania.
Shirley’s magnificent home in downtown Beaver welcomed decades of gatherings of every type: from family holidays to front porch Bible studies; weddings; storyteller dinners; political campaign events; and girls’ sleepover parties. The Beaver Tales annual storytelling festival took form from community imagination and innovation, on that sunny, graciously spacious front porch.
Shirley found her life’s purpose as a teacher and Gifted Program Coordinator for Beaver Area Schools. Generations of students remember Mrs. Pow as the teacher whose enthusiasm enriched their lives and grew them into book readers. Her educational efforts rippled throughout the community via her volunteerism with the Beaver Area Heritage Foundation – Museum, Log Cabin, Beaver Station, and Beaver Tales programs; Christy House (a tea house at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church supporting missions for women and children); Beaver Area Memorial Library; Beaver Junior Women’s Club; Phi Mu; and the Presidential Campaign of Barack Obama. Shirley loved to travel and learn. Shirley always spoke up for what she firmly believed; and she matched her words with actions – leading by example.
Shirley had great happiness in helping to raise her granddaughter, Cassidy Soto. Shirley exemplified enduring love, and great humor, as she poured her grace and grit into being a parent and grandparent.
Shirley was an active member at Beaver United Methodist Church; and later in life at St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church (Sewickley, PA).
To honor her memory: She would like for you to remember the Storyteller’s Creed. Additionally, as “Mrs. Pow’s Chocolate Chip Cookies” are still fondly extolled by her daughter’s elementary school friends and college dorm friends alike, her family wishes to share the recipe. Shirley would suggest that you set a lovely table, to share stories and light with friends old and new, as you enjoy them.
Storyteller’s Creed
I believe that imagination is stronger than knowledge.
That myth is more potent than history
That dreams are more powerful than facts
That hope always triumphs over experience
That laughter is the only cure for grief
And I believe that love is stronger than death.
Chocolate Chip Cookies (Shirley Pow)
1 cup Crisco
1 cup sugar
2 eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla
Cream together well.
2 cups flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 ½ teaspoons salt
12 oz chocolate chips
Bake 10 minutes at 375 degrees on greased cookie sheet

Friends will be received at the Noll Funeral Home, Inc., 333 Third Street, Beaver, on Sunday, June 22nd from 1-3 P.M. and 5-7 P.M. Funeral services will be held at College Avenue United Methodist Church, 345 College Avenue, Beaver, on Monday, June 23rd at 10 A.M. Friends and family are welcome to join in a Celebration of Life luncheon at the Beaver Station Cultural & Event Center, 1 River Road, Beaver, following the service. Online condolences may be shared at www.nollfuneral.com.

In lieu of flowers, please make a memorial contribution to one of these organizations, to further the positive civic impacts of Shirley’s values and life’s work: Beaver Area Heritage Foundation (Beaver Tales), 1 River Road, Beaver, PA 15009, The Shirley & Dick Pow Education Scholarship in care of Beaver Area School District Education Foundation, 1300 Fifth Street, Beaver, PA 15009 or the ACLU https://www.aclu.org/ 1-888-567-ACLU.

Joseph T. Blumling, 60, of Aliquippa, passed away surrounded by those he loved on June 14th, 2025 at Allegheny General Hospital in Pittsburgh, after a brave battle with Pancreatic cancer.

He was born on August 29th, 1964, a son of the late  Charles A. Blumling and Anna May (Herbert) Blumling of Robinson Township. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his siblings, Robert, Theresa, and Pearl Blumling. He was the youngest of his mother’s 11 children. He is survived by his wife, Brianne (Matejka) Blumling and his two children that he was exceptionally proud of, Spencer and Abigail. He will also be forever missed by his siblings: Pauline Wetzel, Marilyn Gausto, Nicholas Blumling, Charles “Chuck” Blumling, Charlotte Easley, John Blumling and Anna Lynn Teyssier. He is also survived by hundreds of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews and his extended family. Joseph was loved deeply by his Goddaughter and niece, Beckey (Blumling) Cox, and her children, Helena and DJ, who loved to shower Uncle Wizard with hugs and he would shower them back with tickles.

Joseph greatly loved his large family and sharing stories of past gatherings, and thrilling rides was a favorite topic. After school, he joined the Army and spent time serving in Germany and Georgia. He retired from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers as a Derrick Boat Operator after many years of welding on land and underwater.

He touched the lives of so many with his sense of humor, warmth, and outgoing nature. He loved taking his Harley out riding, Steeler Sundays, and numerous outdoor activities including hunting and fishing trips. He greatly enjoyed spending time with his circle of friends, in the mountains, on the river, or having a Captain at Club Ed.

A visitation will be held at Mastrofrancesco Funeral Home, 2026 McMinn Street, Aliquippa, on Friday, June 20th from 5-8 p.m. A celebration of life will follow on Saturday, June 21st starting at 11 a.m. with lunch at 12:30 p.m. at The Fez, 2312 Brodhead Road, Aliquippa where everyone will toast to a life well lived, though cut too short. His memory and laugh, will forever live in everyone’s hearts. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The American Cancer Society.

Paul Gossard, 62, passed away peacefully at home on June 16th, 2025. He was born on December 4th, 1962, a son of the late William and Barbara (Janectic) Gossard. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother-in-law, Ken LeFever. Paul shared many wonderful years with his long-time partner, Tracy Reed, whose love and companionship were a constant source of comfort and happiness in his life. In addition to his wife, he is survived by his loving siblings, his brothers, Pat, Ron (Cindy), and Douglas (Regine) and his sisters, Kathy LeFever and Shirley Martin. He was a proud and loving uncle to Jennifer (Tom) Fisher, Brandon Gossard, Jacob and Nick (Jenny) Martin, and Sean and Madeliene Gossard. He is also survived by his dear friends Kellie Forkin and Beth Tirro, as well as Tracy’s family: her sisters Vickey (Dennis) Heberlein and Lesley (Edward) Alexander and nephew, EJ: all of whom will carry his memory with love.

Paul was a  true Parrothead at heart who found joy in the simple pleasures of life: kicking back and listening to his favorite Jimmy Buffett tunes with his beloved animals by his side, most of whom were rescues he cared for deeply.

Paul will be remembered for his gentle spirit, his deep compassion for animals, and his laid-back, kind-hearted nature. His legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Family and friends will be received on Thursday, June 19th, from 1 P.M. until the time of Blessing Service at 5 P.M. at the GABAUER-LUTTON FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATION SERVICES, INC., 117 Blackhawk Road, Beaver Falls.

A private interment will take place at St. Mary’s Cemetery of Beaver Falls.

Please keep Paul’s family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. Monetary donations can be made in Paul’s name to the Beaver County Humane Society.

Frank Krauss, 80, of Crescent, passed away on June 15th, 2025 at Heritage Valley Beaver, with his loving family by his side. He was born in Rochester on October 31st, 1944, the son of the late Frank and Verna (Miller) Krauss. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Verna “Elaine” Rose.

Frank is survived by his loving wife of 47 years, Debra (McArdle) Krauss, two daughters, Kimberly (Scott) Page and Rhonda Kesich (Mike Zurynski), a grandson, Mason Page (who was his very best friend), two granddaughters, Marlee Page and Addison Kesich; two nephews, Scott (Kim) Rose and David (Sandy) Rose; as well as his beloved pet, KitKat.

In accordance with Frank’s wishes, he will be cremated and no services will be held. A Celebration of Life is being planned for a future date. Arrangements have been entrusted to the John Syka Funeral Home Inc., 833 Kennedy Drive, Ambridge.

Laurie A. (Shultz) Johnston, 63, of New Sewickley Township, passed away on June 15th, 2025. She was born in Butler on March 12th, 1962, a daughter of Robert and Maxine (Guthrie) Shultz.

She is survived by her son, Matthew (Natalie) Johnston, four grandchildren: Hunter, Archer, Cooper and Madilynn; as well as her siblings: Robert, Richard, Ronald Shultz and Patty Himelsbaugh.

Family and friends will be received on Thursday, June 19th, from 3 p.m. until the time of service at 6 p.m., at the Huntsman Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Rochester, 502 Adams Street, Rochester.

Private interment will take place at Oak Grove Cemetery of Chicora, Pennsylvania.

Kathleen L. Holliday, 60, of Big Beaver Borough, passed away on June 15th, 2025, at Heritage Valley Beaver. She was born in Beaver Falls on March 19th, 1965, a daughter of Antoinette Davis Tress and the late Willard Tress. In addition to her mother, she is survived by her husband, Ross Reed, two sons, Anthony Holliday and Joseph (Autumn) Holliday, her daughter, Jessie Holliday, three brothers, Scott (Diane) Tress, Russell (Chris) Tress and Mark Tress, three sisters, Rebecca (Skip) Freed, Deborah Boggs and Constance (Jeff) Harrington and three grandchildren, Allen Holliday, Paul Holliday and Ilia Holliday. In addition to her father, she was preceded in death by her son, Sean Tress.

Kathleen was a woman of many passions. Her zest for life was as vast as the ocean, which was a place she often frequented, relaxing under the sun. She found joy in the simple pleasures that life had to offer, like the thrill of casting a fishing line into the water, the sound of a bowling ball hitting the pins, the laughter-filled games of shooting pool and the serene nights spent under the stars while camping. Above all, Kathleen’s most cherished moments were those spent surrounded by her family and grandkids.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, June 18th at 1:30 P.M., along with a funeral service following at 2:30 P.M., at CORLESS-KUNSELMAN FUNERAL SERVICES, LLC, – 3801 4th Avenue, Beaver Falls. Professional services were entrusted to CORLESS-KUNSELMAN FUNERAL SERVICES, LLC, – 3801 4th Avenue, Beaver Falls.

A Celebration of Life will also be held on Wednesday, June 18th at 4:30 P.M. at Rosie’s, 1038 Main St, Enon Valley, PA 16120.   Online condolences may be shared at www.corlessfuneralhomes.com.

Sam Robinson, 75, of Squirrel Hill, died on June 14th, 2025, after several years of health issues.  He grew up in Beaver, near the railroad tracks and had some harrowing, fun-filled experiences there as a kid. He will always be remembered as a hard worker and as being intelligent and willing to share his knowledge with anyone who cared to listen.  His love of railroads and steelmaking was evident to those around him. He graduated from Grove City College and joined the Army in 1971. After his stint of service, where he made good friends, he worked for the Union Railroad and various transportation industries until he retired. He then volunteered at the Great Pittsburgh Community Food Bank, the Duquesne Incline in Pittsburgh, and the Greenville Railroad Park.  He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Diana Todd Robinson, his daughter, Katie (Josh) and his grandchildren, Nora, Gwen, Jo and Sam; as well as his son, Dan. Sam rose to the occasion to care for Dan because of Dan’s special needs,.

Sam’s wishes for cremation will be honored. Friends will be received for a memorial visitation on Sunday, June 22^nd from 1 P.M. until 5 P.M. in the GABAUER-TODD FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, 340 Third Street, Beaver. Inurnment will take place in Beaver Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Sam’s honor may be made to the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank, give.pittsburghfoodbank.org, or the Greenville Railroad Park, 314 Main Street, Greenville, PA 16125.

John Archie Berg, 76, of New Sewickley Township, passed away peacefully on June 13th, 2025, at UPMC Passavant, McCandless. John was born in Rochester and was raised in Monaca. He was a proud graduate of Monaca High School, with the class of 1966. His commitment to his country was evident early on when he entered the U.S. Navy in 1968 during the Vietnam War, honorably serving for eight years. John was stationed in Oahu, Hawaii and served as a radio operator aboard ship and on a submarine, experiences that shaped his resilience and discipline. While stationed at the submarine base in New London, Connecticut, John met and married the love of his life, Charlene Ann Nicolosi, on October 14th, 1972, in New London, Connecticut. After returning to civilian life in Pennsylvania they built a life together filled with love, laughter, and the joy of raising their three children: Severina, Daniel (Amanda), and Matthew Berg. His legacy continued to grow with the births of his cherished grandchildren, Corbin and Jeriah Berg. John’s professional life was marked by his dedication as an electrician at Nova Chemical, where he retired after many years of service. His skills extended to the family farm, where he was the indispensable “farm mechanic,” ensuring that all farm equipment operated smoothly. His work ethic was unmatched, and his membership with the United Steel Workers and past affiliation with the Masonic order spoke to his belief in the value of community and brotherhood. He attended Northway Christian Community Church and later found fellowship at Grace Community Church in Cranberry Township. His faith was not just a personal journey but a shared mission with Charlene. For more than a decade, the couple brought the spirit of the holidays to life at Northway Community Church by participating and providing horses and livestock for the Christmas and Easter pageants. John was an avid outdoorsman and was a man of diverse interests. He delighted in hunting and had favorite fishing spots at Moraine State Park and in Canada, where he enjoyed the serenity of nature. His love for horses was evident as heexhibited them at the Big Knob Grange Fair, sharing his passion with his community. In their retirement years, John and Charlene became adventurers, spending winters in Florida, exploring the western states in their motorhome, and enjoying the relaxation of Caribbean cruises. These travels were some of the happiest times of their lives, filled with discovery and the pleasure of each other’s company. He was preceded in death by his parents, Archie Leonard and Marguerite (Cole) Berg, and his siblings, Carol Jean Berg, Thomas Berg, and C Bruce Berg. He is survived by his beloved wife, Charlene, his children and grandchildren, his sister-in-law, Donna Berg and several nieces and nephews. The family will receive friends on Saturday, June 21st from 10 A.M. until the time of services at 1 P.M. at SIMPSON FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES, 1119 Washington Avenue, Monaca, where military honors will be provided by the U.S. Navy and the Beaver County Special Unit. Pastor Bob Zonts will officiate. Private interment will take place at the National Cemetery of the Alleghenies, 1158 Morgan Road, Bridgeville. The family has suggested memorial contributions be made, if desired, in John’s name, to the Tunnel of Towers Foundation, 2361 Hylan Blvd., Staten Island, NY 10306.

Paul D. Dietz, 80, of New Brighton, passed away on June 15th, 2025 at his home. He was born in Rochester on July 22nd, 1944, a son of the late Joseph and Mabel Seaburn Dietz. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, James Dietz, two sisters, Paula Witherow and Louise Hartsuff, three brothers, his twin, Robert, as well as Joseph and Bill Dietz, a step-sister, Judy Anderson, two step-brothers, Bill and Hiram Hartsuff, a nephew, John Kelly, and his uncle, Paul Dietz. He is survived by his son, Craig Robert Dietz of Pulaski Township, a grandson, Brayden Dietz of Pulaski Township, and a sister-in-law, Sandra Dietz of Daugherty Township.

Paul was a retired employee with the former B&W Company of Beaver Falls. He was Catholic by faith and a member of both the New Brighton American Legion Post 19 and the New Brighton F.O.E. 1342. He was also a Vietnam Veteran of the United States Air Force who had served in Thailand. Paul loved playing and watching any sport, especially Pittsburgh. He also enjoyed cooking.  Paul’s wishes were to be cremated with no service. Arrangements have been entrusted to the William Murphy Funeral Home Inc. 349 Adams Street, Rochester.

Nagat Danial, a beloved wife and mother from McDonald, passed away on June 10th, 2025. She will be dearly missed by all that knew and loved her. Nagat’s services are private and arrangements have been entrusted to Alvarez-Hahn Funeral and Cremation Services, LLC 547 8th Street, Ambridge.