Category: Obituaries

Sheila Evelyn Cross (Passed on November 5th, 2025)

Sheila Evelyn Cross, 52, of Beaver County, passed away on November 5th, 2025 at Heritage Valley Beaver. She was born in Sewickley, a daughter of the late Debra E. (Lucci) States and David A. States. Her early years were further blessed by the wisdom and affection of her grandparents, Frank A. Lucci, Sr. and Ruby V. Liller Cole, her great-grandmother, Virginia Liller, as well as her beloved son, Issac Cross, all of whom preceded her in passing along with her parents. The love Sheila shared with her family was deep and unyielding. She is survived by her beloved sister, Amanda Cross, and her cherished niece, Hannah Cross.

Though Sheila faced the challenges of disability, she never allowed it to define her. Instead, she will be remembered as a beacon of positivity, always ready with a playful jest or a comforting embrace. Her ability to tease and make those around her smile was unmatched, and her status as a people person was undeniable. Her legacy is one of love, laughter, and the power of human connection.

A Memorial service to celebrate and remember Sheila’s life will be held on Saturday, December 6th at 1 p.m. at the Living Water Family Church, 108 Spruce Drive, Monaca. Arrangements have been entrusted to Simpson Funeral and Cremation Services, 1119 Washington Avenue, Monaca.

Dorothy (Cholak) Lancos (1934-2025)

Dorothy (Cholak) Lancos, 91, passed away peacefully on November 8th, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of unwavering faith and boundless love for her family and friends.

She was born on September 15th, 1934, the daughter of the late John and Mary (Bacha) Cholak. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Andy Lancos, Sr., her grandson, Andy “Gucci” Lancos III and her sister and brother-in-law, Mary Ann (Joseph) Sopko. She is survived by three devoted children and their spouses: Andy and Carol Lancos, Jr., The Honorable Deborah Lancos DeCostro and her husband, Ron DeCostro, and Linda and Ben Koda II. She treasured her grandchildren: Andria (William) Coble, Jr., Sheela (Michael) Miller, Kayla (Matthew) Edgar and Jonathan DeCostro. She was also blessed with four great grandchildren who she adored: Ily Grace Coble, Brynnley “Princess” Edgar, Giovanni Otlowski and Everley “Sunshine” Edgar and is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews and many dear friends.

Dorothy was a member of Mary Queen of Saints Parish, St. Frances Cabrini Church and the Confraternity of Christian Mothers. She was a woman devoted to God, attending church regularly and praying faithfully throughout her life. Her spiritual commitment was evident in her gentle words, compassionate heart and steadfast devotion. She cherished every moment spent with her family, especially during their vacations together. Whether it was a trip to a new destination or a simple family gathering, she found immense joy in creating lasting memories with those she loved most. She spoiled her family with her famous homemade stuffed cabbage and chicken soup. Her warmth and laughter brightened every occasion, and her presence was a source of comfort and happiness. She also found delight in the simple pleasures of life. She relished a good shopping trip, always on the lookout for the perfect find, and her eyes sparkled with excitement when she boarded a ship to take a cruise or saw the ocean. Many fond memories were made playing bingo or cards and solving puzzles alongside family and friends. These moments were filled with laughter, friendly competition, and a shared sense of togetherness.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, November 12th from 3-7 p.m. at the Anthony Mastrofrancesco Funeral Home Inc., 2026 McMinn Street, Aliquippa, who was in charge of her arrangements, and where departing prayers will begin on Thursday, November 13th at 10:15 a.m., followed by a Mass of Christian burial at 11 a.m. at St. Frances Cabrini Church, 115 Trinity Drive, Aliquippa. Interment will follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, 2186 Brodhead Road, Aliquippa.

The Lancos family expresses their sincere appreciation to Dr. Heinle, Dr. Tapyrik, and Three Oaks Hospice for the dedicated and considerate care provided to Dorothy and her family.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made in memory of Dorothy to Penn State THON.

She will be deeply missed by all who have had the privilege to know her. May her life continue to inspire faithfulness, togetherness, and the celebration of life’s simple joys. You will always remain in our hearts, we love you. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Dorothy (Cholak) Lancos, please visit the Sympathy Store of the Anthony Mastrofrancesco Funeral Home, Inc by clicking here.

Elaine D. Poliziani (1947-2025)

Elaine D. Poliziani, 77, of Moon Township, passed away on November 8th, 2025 in St. Clair Hospital in Pittsburgh. She was born in Aliquippa on November 24th, 1947, a daughter of the late Mary and Steve Domitrovich. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her two sisters, Nancy Richards and Mitzi Lapcevich. She is survived by her husband, Bill Poliziani, her daughter and son-in-law, Angela and Nick DeCecco, her grandchildren, Sophia and Nicholas and her nieces and nephews: Ron Richards, Krissy Schoelkopf, Renee Desper, Linda Wilamowski, Nick Lapson and Robin Lapcevich.

Elaine was a graduate of Penn State University, with a degree in accounting. This lead her to own and operate her own business, Poliziani Accounting and Tax Services. She was a longtime member of the Moon Township Garden Club, where she helped publish the newsletter for years. She liked to stay active working, and the hours that she spent at her computer crunching numbers were amazing. She loved to, and she was not shy to, give anyone her advice. She enjoyed traveling with her husband for many years. Elaine was a member of Impact Christian Church in Moon Township, as her faith was very important. She was a Sunday School Teacher and loved participating in the Women’s Bible Study Group.  She also found great joy in entertaining.  Cooking and having people over to her home were some of her favorite times.

Friends will be received on Wednesday, November 12th from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. in Huntsman Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Moon Township, who was in charge of her arrangements, and where a funeral service will be held on Thursday, November 13th at 10 a.m.

Interment will follow in Mt. Olivet Catholic Cemetery, 2186 Brodhead Road, Aliquippa.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Moon Township Garden Club, the Food Pantry at Sharron Presbyterian Church, 522 Carnot Road, Moon Township, PA 15108, the American Heart Association, and Impact Christian Church, 330 Hookstown Grade Road, Moon Township, PA 15108

Lydia J. (Piroli) Palombo (1922-2025)

Lydia J. (Piroli) Palombo, 103, formerly of Aliquippa, passed away peacefully at her home in Southold, New York, on November 7th, 2025. She was born in Aliquippa on August 7th, 1922, a daughter of the late Oreste and Concetta Piroli.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Arthur (Larry) Palombo, her sister, Olga Matakovich and her brothers, William Piroli, Dr. Duilio D. Piroli, and Gino Piroli. She is survived by her two children, Elaine White of Southold, New York, and Joseph Palombo (and his husband, Paul Redmond Jr.) of Atkinson, New Hampshire, her four grandchildren, four great-grandchildren and many loving nieces, nephews and godchildren.
Lydia was a dedicated employee of the Aliquippa School District, retiring as the superintendent’s secretary. She was a member of Mary Queen of Saints Parish, and St. Titus Church in Aliquippa, where she also volunteered and served as an officer of the Confraternity of Christian Mothers. She will be remembered by her loved ones and friends as a genuine and kind lady, and was an inspiration to many for her intelligence, broad cultural interests, accepting nature, and the wonderful friendships and connections she established and nurtured her entire 103 years.
Private Interment will be at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, 2186 Broadhead Road, Aliquippa. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Anthony Mastrofrancesco Funeral Home, Inc., 2026 McMinn Street, Aliquippa.
Lydia was a passionate reader and requested that any donations in her memory be made to the B.F. Jones Memorial Library, 663 Franklin Avenue, Aliquippa, PA 15001. (https://www.beaverlibraries.org/libraries/aliquippa). To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Lydia J. (Piroli) Palombo, please visit the Sympathy Store of the Anthony Mastrofrancesco Funeral Home, Inc. by clicking here.

Carol Ann Tempest (Passed on November 2nd, 2025)

Carol Ann Tempest, 81, of Brighton, Colorado, passed away peacefully on November 2nd, 2025. She was born in Cincinnati, Ohio and was raised in Monaca, Pennsylvania, the daughter of Alberta and Carl Bechtel. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, Carl Bechtel, Jr., and her husband, Harold Masters. She is survived by her son, Ron Tempest, Jr. (Kendra), her stepdaughter, Amy Buchanan, her grandchildren, Travis Buchanan and Brandon Buchanan, her beloved cousins, Nell Rittle (Todd Havekotte), Katy Rittle (Jason Boyd), and Paul Petroski (Cindy) and their children.

Carol married Ron Tempest, Sr., in 1961, and together they began their journey at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, where their son, Ron Jr. was born. After three years, they returned to Monaca, where Carol built a life rooted in family, friendship, and service. Throughout her career, she worked in various customer service roles, always bringing warmth and kindness to those she encountered. In 2005, she married Harold Masters, and together they shared a love of travel and adventure, especially visiting casinos across the country. Her favorite destinations included Palm Springs, Myrtle Beach, and Punta Cana. She had a passion for gardening, holiday decorating, cooking, gambling and playing cards with her friends. Her home was always filled with laughter, warmth, and the comforting aroma of a home-cooked meal. She adored her rescue dogs, Molly and Sasha, who brought her endless joy and companionship. She was a beautiful and loving mother who always encouraged those around her to live their best lives. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of her family and friends, who will remember her for her generosity, her vibrant spirit, and the joy she brought to every room.

A life celebration will be held on Saturday, December 6th at 1 p.m. at SIMPSON FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES, 1119 Washington Avenue, Monaca, who was in charge of his arrangements. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to the Beaver County Humane Society, 3394 Broadhead Road, Aliquippa, PA 15001 in honor of Carol’s love for animals.

Jessica “Jessie” M. Condon (1995-2025)

Jessica “Jessie” M. Condon, 30, passed away on November 4th, 2025 at Heritage Valley Beaver. She was born in Pittsburgh on February 23rd, 1995, a daughter of Jennifer and Jon Richardson. In addition to her parents, she is survived by her sister, Jane Moore, her maternal grandparents, Diane and Gary Condon, her niece, Gretchen Matthews, Amy and Dave Kaczorowski and Michele Condon; as well as her cousins: Nick, Justin, Chelsea, Rowan, Riley, Tyler, Ella and Connor; along with her McGuire Memorial family. She was preceded in death by her uncle, Gary.

Jessie was known by all who loved her as a bright light, very strong, fearless, and full of life. She had a warrior’s spirit and faced every challenge with courage and determination. She had a gift for making friends, and her warm, happy personality drew people in instantly. Jessie loved to laugh and make others laugh. Her spunky sense of humor and signature eye roll were just a few of the things that made her so unforgettable. To know her was to know true joy, kindness, and strength. Her beautiful energy will live on in the hearts of those who loved her most.

A memorial visitation will be held on Friday, November 21st, from 12 noon until the time of memorial mass at 1 p.m. at McGuire Memorial, 2119 Mercer Road, New Brighton. Arrangements have been entrusted to the J&J Spratt Funeral Home, 1612 Third Avenue, New Brighton.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to McGuire Memorial, 2119 Mercer Road, New Brighton, PA 15066.

Patricia Ann (Garrett) Katekovich (1939-2025)

Patricia Ann (Garrett) Katekovich, 86, of New Sewickley Township, passed away peacefully in her home on November 6th, 2025.

She was born on January 6th, 1939, a daughter of the late Anna Lubert and Joseph Pszybyszewski. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved husband, John P. Katekovich, four brothers: Ted Garrett, Chester Garrett, Tom Garrett, Joe “Butch” Garrett and one sister, Rose McCoy. She is survived by her sons, John S. (Joanne) Katekovich and Daniel (Connie) Katekovich, her daughters, Beth (Bob) Derflinger, Anna M. (Bill) Paulson and Rosie Katekovich, her sister, Alicia Shirley Sliwoski, her grandchildren: Jesse Derflinger, Emily Derflinger, Amanda Paulson, Rachel Katekovich, Danny Katekovich and James Katekovich, her great-grandchildren, Kruz, Alyssa, Caleb and Christopher, and a great-great grandchild, Kade.

Patricia dedicated her life to her family, her faith, and her community. She was a devoted homemaker who filled her home with warmth, laughter, and creativity. She was known for her remarkable talents: an accomplished seamstress, cake decorator, and crocheter, she poured love and artistry into everything she made. Her hands were rarely still, whether she was crafting beautiful Ukrainian Easter eggs, stitching something special for a loved one, or preparing a homemade meal to share. Her generosity was boundless. Patricia had a gift for making everyone feel at home; no one ever left her house empty-handed, as she delighted in sending guests off with food, treats, or small tokens of her care. She was a faithful servant of her church, Patricia volunteered tirelessly over the years, teaching Sunday School, singing in the choir, and hosting the Good News Club in her home to share God’s Word with neighborhood children. She touched countless lives through her kindness, humor, and deep compassion for others.

Patricia’s love of reading and learning stayed with her throughout her life, and her joyful, giving spirit left an indelible mark on all who knew her. She was truly a people person, someone who loved deeply, gave freely, and made the world brighter through her presence.

A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, November 12th, at 11 a.m. at Pathway Church (Chippewa), 239 Braun Rd, Beaver Falls. Arrangements have been entrusted to the J&J Spratt Funeral Home, 1612 Third Avenue, New Brighton.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Patricia’s name may be made to the New Brighton Public Library, 1021 3rd Ave, New Brighton, PA, 15066 or the Pathway Church (Chippewa), 239 Braun Rd, Beaver Falls, PA, 15010.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Patricia Ann Katekovich, please visit the flower store of the J&J Spratt Funeral Home, Inc by clicking here.

Ashley K. Kunich (1983-2025)

Ashley K. Kunich, 42, of Baden, passed away at home on November 7th, 2025. She was born on January 1st, 1983, a daughter of George Kunich and Christine Cox. In addition to her parents, she is survived by her loving husband and best friend of 17 years, Rick Palak, her stepfather, Ritchie Cox, her grandmother, Donna Jean Morgan, her nephew, Landon Gregory and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. She was preceded in death by her sister, Lindsey (Kunich) Gregory.

Ashley was a graduate of Freedom High School and went on to attend the Community College of Beaver County. She worked side by side with her husband at Independent Milling and Paving. She will be remembered for her deep love of family and will be dearly missed by all who knew her.

Services for Ashley are private. Arrangements have been entrusted to Alvarez Hahn Funeral Services and Cremation, LLC, 547 8th Street, Ambridge.

Rebecca “Becky” Ann Bianculli (1960-2025)

Rebecca “Becky” Ann Bianculli, 65, of New Galilee, passed away on November 4th, 2025 at her residence.

She was born in Beaver Falls on April 2nd, 1960, a daughter of Mary K. Liotto and the late Earl D. Redmond. In addition to her father, she was preceded in death by her sister, Lorie D. Redmond. In addition to her mother, she is survived by her children, Jill (Joseph) Picarello, Tracy Swerbenski and Michael Bianculli, her seven grandchildren: Amber, Dylan, Jack, Alyssa, Gavin, Joseph, and Jonathan, her siblings, Teresa (Michael Hoover) Antoniazzi and Samuel Irons, her niece and nephew, Tara (Alex) Partridge and Tyler(Alya) Antoniazzi, along with many great nieces and nephews.

Rebecca was a loving mother, sister, aunt, and friend. She enjoyed reading in her younger years. Later in life, she found joy crocheting and creating diamond art.

All services for Rebecca were private. The GABAUER-LUTTON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, Inc., 117 Blackhawk Road, Beaver Falls, was honored to care for Becky and her family during this most difficult time, and was the funeral home that was in charge of her arrangements.

James L. McDanel (1955-2025)

James L. McDanel, 70, of Beaver Falls, who was a proud U.S. Army Veteran, passed away surrounded by his family on November 5th, 2025, at Heritage Valley Beaver. He was born in New Brighton on August 17th, 1955, a son of the late Forest and Olive (Smith) McDanel. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by four sisters: Regina Mae (McDanel) Burns, Mary Mills, Sharon Parrish and Kathy Coburn, his sister-in-law, Marilyn McDanel and his brother-in-laws, Ralph Mills and Richard Coburn. He is survived by his six brothers: Keith McDanel, Donald (Susie) McDanel, Forest “Sam” (Jackie) McDanel, John (Cindy) McDanel, Dennis McDanel and Carl McDanel, his sister, JoAnn Coburn, his brother-in-law, Frank Parrish, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and their families.

James was a graduate of New Brighton High School who went on to build his career in trade painting with McDanel Painting with one of his brothers, where he was known for his strong work ethic. His pride in his country was evident to all who knew him. Outside of work, he found peace and joy in the outdoors. He especially loved camping, where evenings spent around the campfire brought him some of his happiest memories. He left behind many cherished relatives and friends who will remember him for his loyalty, humor, and heart.

A Memorial Service will be held by James’ family at a later date. Arrangements have been entrusted to the J&J Spratt Funeral Home, 1612 Third Avenue, New Brighton.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of James L. McDanel, please visit the flower store of the J&J Spratt Funeral Home, Inc. by clicking here.