Category: Obituaries

Olga Fitzgerald (September 25, 1934 – July 2, 2024)

On July 2, 2024, Olga (Jasek) Fitzgerald peacefully went home to be with the Lord. She was 89 years old.
Olga was born September 25, 1934, in West Aliquippa and is the daughter of the late Ciprian and Sophie (Olack) Jasek. In addition to her parents, she was welcomed by her beloved husband, Ralph E. Fitzgerald, a son, Eddie Ralph Fitzgerald, a daughter, Marlene Fitzgerald Stenger, three sisters: Mary Katus, Betty Hopkins and Helen Pruzinsky and her son-in-law Edward Peters.
Olga is a member of Mary Queen of Saints Parish, Saints Frances Cabrini Church, Center Twp.
She retired from Central Valley School District having worked in the cafeteria and the Latch Key program at the school.
Olga cherished her family, especially her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She beamed with pride when she attended various activities for sports, band or any function her grandchildren participated in. She enjoyed taking them camping and has left each of them with many special memories to cherish.
Olga is survived by her devoted daughter and son: Barbara Peters, Dave Fitzgerald and his wife Carol, who Olga loved like a daughter.
Her grandchildren who showered her with much joy: Bobbie Jo, David, Michelle, Jennifer, Carrie, Matthew, Brian, Ashlee, Kellie Jo and numerous great grandchildren who were also showered by Olga’s love. In addition to her children and grandchildren Olga leaves behind a sister, Sophie Laurito and a brother and sister-in-law: John (Shirley) Jasek and several nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be Friday, July 5, 2024, from 9:30 am until time of blessing service at 10:00 am in the Anthony Mastrofrancesco Funeral Home Inc. 2026 McMinn Street, Aliquippa, PA 15001. Interment will follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery.
Until we meet again, In Olga’s words…..”Okey Dokey, Be Careful”

Tina Marie Kamicker (February 27, 1973 – July 2, 2024)

Tina Kamicker, 51, of New Brighton died Tuesday, July 2, 2024.

Born February 27, 1973, in Akron, Oh, a daughter of Charlotte (Wagner) Fleming and the late Roger Burchell.  She loved being an aunt, loved her in-laws like siblings, and she had a passion for Rock Music.

She was preceded in death by her father-in-law, Gregory Kamicker

Tina is survived by her wife, Faith Kamicker; three daughters, Destiny (Joel) Stoner, Alisha Whelan, Brittany Whelan (James Kamicker); an aunt, Linda Bauer.  Also surviving her is her favorite uncle Mark Wagner (Jun).

Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, July 13, 2024, at the New Brighton Croatian Club, starting at Noon.

Nancy C. Gibbs. (February 05, 1931 – July 04, 2024)

Nancy C. (Netherland) Gibbs, 93, of Beaver, passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 4, 2024, at Heritage Valley – Beaver.

Born on February 5, 1931, in Beaver, she was the daughter of the late George and Margaret (Boyd) Netherland.

Nancy had been a Pre-School Assistant at First Presbyterian Church in Beaver for many years.  She was a devout Catholic and was a member of Sts. Peter & Paul Church of Our Lady of the Valley Parish.  In her free time, Nancy was known to be immersed in a good book, taking her dog for walks around town, and volunteering at the Beaver Library.  She was also a talented artist, sharing her work with those she loved.

In addition to her parents, Nancy was preceded in death by her husband, LeRoy L. Gibbs; and her siblings, George Netherland, William Netherland, and Christy Netherland.

She is survived by her daughters, Christie Denillo, Stacie Gibbs, Pamela (Greg) Richmond, and Carie (Steve Nemec) Booher; 11 grandchildren, 5 great-grandchildren, numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

Friends will be received on Tuesday, July 9th from 6-8PM at the GABAUER-TODD FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES (Branch), 340 Third St., Beaver.

Prayers will be offered in the funeral home on Wednesday at 9:30AM followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10AM at Sts. Peter & Paul Church of Our Lady of the Valley Parish, 200 Third Street, Beaver, with Fr. Howard Campbell as celebrant.

Interment will be in the National Cemetery of the Alleghenies with her beloved husband.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Beaver Area Memorial Library, 100 College Ave., Beaver, PA 15009.

Michael T. Cunningham (Died July 4, 2024)

Michael T. “Cunzy” Cunningham, 66, a lifelong resident of Monaca passed away on the 4th of July, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of devotion and spirited camaraderie that touched all who knew him. Mike’s education began having attended St. John the Baptist Elementary School and graduating from Monaca High School with the class of 1975. He continued his education at Penn State University where he earned an Associate degree.

Mike’s professional life was marked by a successful career as a sales representative for various financial institutions. His personal interests included the joy of playing duck pins at St. John’s lanes and the competitive spirit of golfing on the PNA League. However, it was his unwavering dedication to his family, particularly to his girls and their endeavors, that truly defined the essence of his character.

Mike’s life was enriched by a loving family. He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Nancy Snedden Cunningham, who stood by his side as a partner and confidante through every chapter of their lives together. Their love blossomed into a beautiful family with the birth of their daughter Alysia, who, along with her daughters Alexis and Riley, brought immeasurable joy and pride to Mike. He was a cherished member of a larger family network that included his brothers-in-law Tony (Deb) Petersen, Robert Snedden, and Richard (Jane) Snedden, and sister-in-law Debbie (Randy) Ruff. He also leaves numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and a multitude of friends who were like an extended family to him.

As we remember the lives of those who preceded him in death. His mother Vivian Stauffer, brother Lewis Headley, grandmother Veronica Stauffer, mother-in-law Alice Snedden Casciato, brother-in-law Bill Snedden, niece Sherry T. Petersen, Uncle Dan and Aunt Norma Stauffer, Uncle Andy and Aunt Helen Stauffer and Aunt Alice and Uncle Andrew Bacha,  all played significant roles in his life.

His absence will be felt at the duck pins lanes, on the golf course, and most deeply within the hearts of his family, who will continue to live out the values he instilled in them.

Friends will be received on Tuesday, July 9th from 2 -4pm and 6 -8pm with a service to follow at SIMPSON FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES, 1119 Washington Avenue, Monaca. Interment will take place at St  John the Baptist Catholic Cemetery

The family wishes to thank Michael and Kelli Headley, Tom and Ronnie Eck and Dave Powers for the dedicated and compassionate care they provided  Mike during his declining health..

To share online condolences, view Mike’s video tribute, add photos and get directions, please visit www.simpsonfuneralhome.com.

Patricia Jean Yute (December 1, 1940 – July 3, 2024)

Patricia Jean Yute, 83, of Brighton Twp., passed away Wednesday, July 3, 2024, at Allegheny General Hospital, Pittsburgh.

Born December 1, 1940 in New Brighton, she was a daughter of the late John and Marjorie Morrow Armour. Patricia, Graduate of New Brighton H.S, Beaver Valley Hospital, and Slippery Rock University, retired following a long career as a registered nurse (BSN), and was a faithful member of Vanport Presbyterian Church, Vanport Twp. She will be remembered most as a devoted wife, loving mother, proud grandmother and great-grandmother.

Patricia will be greatly missed by her husband of 61 years, Homer F. Yute, Brighton Twp.; son, Douglas H. (Cindy) Yute, Wisconsin; brother, John (a.k.a Tom) W. (Delores) Armour, South Carolina; grandchildren, Justin, Heather, and Katelyn; and great-grandson, Nathan.

In addition to her parents, Patricia was preceded in death by her sister, Judith Armour Moore.

Friends will be received Monday July 8, 2024 in the Noll Funeral Home Inc., 333 Third Street, Beaver, PA 15009 from 2pm until the time of service at 4pm. Online condolences may be shared at www.nollfuneral.com.

Mary Matsukas Whan (February 16, 1932 ~ July 5, 2024)

Mary Matsukas Whan, 92, passed away on July 5, 2024 in Winter Park, FL. She was born to the late John and Archontula (Fasilis) Panutsos in Ambridge, Pennsylvania. Before relocating to Florida in 2017, Mary was a resident of Chippewa Twp in Beaver Falls, PA.

She was very active in the Greek Orthodox Church and was also a member of many organizations including the Beaver County Business and Career Women’s Club, Eastern Star, the Philotas’s Society, as well as a member of the church choir, and past president, serving two terms, for the Ladies Auxiliary at church

She married Dr. Nicholas Matsukas. Her first child, Tula, was born prematurely, and Mary worked diligently with Tula’s special needs while raising 2 other children. She was a committed mother, grandmother, and wife who gave strength to her children and grandchildren through tireless encouragement.  She was creative, resourceful and resilient.

Mary created “Mary’s Fashions”, a women’s clothing shop, out of her basement and eventually moved the business to a storefront. In this business, she helped many local women find suitable clothing to meet their needs.

She later married Dr. Glenn Whan. They enjoyed traveling to exotic and fun places until, as she phrased it, her best friend passed away in 2003.

 

She is preceded in death by her parents, a sister (Kay), brother (Gus), husbands (Nicholas Matsukas and Glenn Whan) and her daughter, Tula Marie. She is survived by her daughter, Jeanine (John) Ballinger of Winter Springs, Florida, son, Steve (Tina) Matsukas of Oakton, Virginia, step-daughter, Cindy (John) Simons and stepson, David Whan of Hendersonville, NC , along with grandchildren Shawn Majzlik, Isobel and Nicholas Matsukas, Aidan, Avery, Cameron and Reagan Simons.

Friends are welcome to attend a visitation that will be held from 6-8 pm Friday, July 12, 2024 at Hill and Kunselman Funeral Home, 3801 4th Avenue, Beaver Falls, PA

Funeral services will be held Saturday, July 13, 2024 at 10 am at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, 2930 Beaver Road, Ambridge, PA.

 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions go to Merakey AVS: Development Department, Merakey Allegheny Valley School, 1996 Ewings Mill Road, Coraopolis, PA 15108

or Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, 2930 Beaver Road, Ambridge PA 15003-1418

 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Mary Matsukas Whan, please visit our floral store.

Maria Elena Andrews (June 8, 1941 – June 30, 2024)

Maria Elena Papa Andrews, age 83, of Beaver, formerly of Gibsonia, passed away June 30, 2024 in Allegheny General Hospital. She was born June 8, 1941 in Rochester, PA. She was the daughter of the late Patsy A. and Mary D. [Pompa] Papa. She was a former bookkeeper with Hesse Services in Wexford. Maria was a former member of St. Cecilia Roman Catholic Church in Rochester and former member of St. Ferdinand Roman Catholic Church. Maria attended and graduated from St. Cecilia Catholic School K-8 and then graduated from Rochester High School. She was a former den mother and scout leader and was known for her sense of humor, “lots of laughs” and nothing made her happier than family gatherings and her love of anything Italian. She was preceded in death by her husband William D. Andrews in 2013, and also by a sister and brother-in-law Rosalie and Robert Celio. She is survived by one daughter Michelle “Chelle” Robinson and her companion Ralph R. Pivirotto of Ohio Township and one son Kurt S. Robinson and his companion Christine Charlesworth of Evans City, two grandchildren Vanessa Pierandozzi and her husband Ty of Indian Hills, Colorado and Nickolas Robinson of Evans City, two great grandchildren Ophelia and Ruby. Maria is also survived by one brother and sister-in-law Frank G. and Cindy Papa of Patterson Township, one sister and brother-in-law Patty and Tom Kelly of Double Oak, Texas and several nieces, nephews and cousins, one aunt Antoinette “Aunt Nettie” Papa of Beaver, three stepsons William, Dan and Greg Andrews.

Maria’s wish was to be cremated. However friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial Tuesday, July 9, 2024 at 10:00 AM in St. Cecilia Roman Catholic Church in Rochester. Inurnment will be in the Cemetery of the Alleghenies.

Arrangements are entrusted to the William Murphy Funeral Home, Inc. 349 Adams St. Rochester, PA. The family wishes memorial contributions to a charity of choice.

 

To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Maria Elena Andrews please visit our Sympathy Store.

WARREN T. “TOM” BRANDT (6/22/1930 — 7/1/2024)

Warren T. “Tom” Brandt, 94, of New Sewickley Twp., passed from this world to his home in Heaven on Monday, July 1, 2024 in Celebration Village, Chippewa, PA. He was born in Ambridge, PA on June 22, 1930 a son of the late Robert H. and Clara Brandt Sr.  He worked for American Bridge as a Template Maker and was in structural steel fabrication working with Butler Fabrication.  He was a long-time member of the First Presbyterian Church of Rochester where he was an elder.  He also was a member of the Baden American Legion.  He was a US Army Veteran. He and his wife enjoyed square dancing, hiking and camping with their family.  He also enjoyed hunting and was a very skilled woodworker.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by 4 brothers; Robert H. Jr., Richard, Dale, Albert Brandt; 3 sisters: Ellen Jane Borro, Luella Meiter, and Joann Gordon; and a son-in-law; James Falesnik.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 72 years, Marian Brandt; 3 children; Joyce (Michael) Cain, Larry (Karen) Brandt, and Sharon (Donald) Antoline; 4 grandchildren: Mark (MaryBeth) Falesnik; Matthew (Morissa) Antoline; Andrea (Eric) Edminster; and Paul (Jill) Antoline; 9 great grandchildren and 2 great great grandchildren.

Friends will be received on Saturday July 6, 2024 from 10:30am until the time of Funeral Service at 11:30am in the Huntsman Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Rochester.

The members of the Beaver County Special Unit will conduct Military Honors at 11:45am in funeral home.

Private interment will take place in Sylvania Hills Memorial Park.

Memorial contributions may be made to the First Presbyterian Church of Rochester. 200 N. Park St. Rochester, Pa 15074

JAY R. KLEIN (5/10/1941 — 7/1/2024)

Jay Klein, 83, formerly of Center Township, passed away on July 1, 2024.

Born on May 10, 1941, Jay was the son of the late Ann and Louis Klein. Jay leaves behind his son, Louis (Nicole) Klein of Pittsburgh. Jay was also the beloved Ampy to his two grandchildren, Addison and Austin, as well as his grandpuppy and favorite napping companion, Brody.

Jay also leaves behind his niece, Kimberly Zytnick, Aspinwall, wife of the late Jay Zytnick, and three grandnephews, Zachary, William, and Matthew Zytnick.

Jay was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 42 years, Ilene Klein, in June of 2023.

Jay was a graduate of Aliquippa High School, as well as a graduate of Youngstown State University.

Jay took tremendous joy in playing cards with Addison and Austin. Most notably, their games in War over who would be the latest champion – with the winner being the proud holder of the War championship crown that Austin made – often led to both laughter and tears. Jay was highly entertained by the Taylor Swift playing cards that Addison gifted him this most recent Father’s Day, such that they would have a new set of cards for their games.

Jay also served as president of the Center Band Parents during Lou’s time in high school, as well as on the board of Beth Samuel Jewish Center in Ambridge during the 1990s.

In addition to his devotion to his family, Jay was an enormous sports fan, most notably with an incredible passion for Aliquippa sports. He was particularly thrilled for their numerous championships over the years, including their state championships in both football and basketball within the past year. Jay could often be found talking about the latest sports news and games with his family and friends.

Family and friends will be received between 10 AM and noon on Sunday, July 7, 2024, at Huntsman Funeral Home, 2345 Mill Street, Aliquippa, PA 15001, with a celebration of life to follow thereafter. Interment will then follow at Beth Shalom Cemetery, 1501 Anderson Road, Shaler, PA 15209.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Ilene Klein Children’s Fund at B.F. Jones Memorial Library, Aliquippa, PA. Donations to the fund can be made online at https://link.clover.com/urlshortener/VV3WXb.

A livestream link for the celebration of life will be posted here shortly before the funeral service.

David L. Cato (June 12, 1954 ~ July 1, 2024)

David L. Cato, aged 70, of Baden, passed away at home on July 1, 2024. He was preceded in death by his parents, Glenn and Eleanor Cato, and a niece, Stephanie Cable. He is survived by his sister, Barbara Brown, his nephew Glenn (Renee) Brown, two great grand nephews, Conner and Raymond Cable, as well as numerous cousins and friends. David spent many years working with Waste Management of Pittsburgh. He had a passion for hunting and camping, and he deeply cared for animals of all sizes. Per his wishes, services will be held privately. Arrangements are being handled by Alvarez-Hahn Funeral Services and Cremation, LLC., of Ambridge.