Narciza Estrada, 90, a longtime Ambridge resident who left Mexico as a young bride in 1956 to start a new life in Southwestern Pennsylvania, but never wavered in her religious faith, devotion to family and friends and pride in the food, music and traditions of her native Tierra Linda, passed away of natural causes on March 4th, 2025 at Heritage Valley Beaver. She was born on January 22nd, 1935 and was preceded in death by her husband, Louis Estrada. She is survived by her daughters, Rosemary (Timothy) Taddeo of Cranberry Township, Mimi Rosenblatt of Fairfax, Virginia, Marcie (Brian) Laughlin of Rockledge, Florida, two sons, Louie (Lisa) Estrada of Nashville and Rudy (Trish) Estrada of Annapolis, Maryland and nine grandchildren: Ross and Tyler, Eva, Julia and Fredy, Kas and Mina and Marley and Tobin.

Narciza was known in her social circles as Alice or Licia. She saw the world in black and white, good and evil, much like studio wrestling, of which she was a fan from the days of Bruno Sammartino. Above all, she was a devoted Roman Catholic, praying the rosary eight times a day and until her health began to decline, attended Mass regularly and walked daily.

Narciza had a biting sense of humor and faith in God, Jesus and Mary the Blessed Virgin, who braced her in the toughest of times. She was a frugal homemaker who harvested vegetables from her backyard garden and turned-out plates of delicious food in the tiny kitchen of her home, where she raised her five children. She always made sure there were extra servings of food for visitors regardless of whether they wanted to eat or not.

During her early years in Ambridge, she hosted card games for the other Mexican families in town. Her boisterous laughter sometimes fueled by an occasional Highball-rose above the Ranchero music playing on the stereo. She volunteered weekly in the cafeteria of St. Veronica’s Catholic School and sang in the church choir.

She was born and raised in Michoacán, in west-central Mexico. She made efforts to maintain her connections to her home country. She arranged months-long family vacations to Mexico and fiercely defended Mexico in political debates.

She also passionately bragged about her grandchildren which amused her children because she often left the impression that they fell short of her standards.

She seemed to live the mantra of give as good as you get. She was dealt her fair share of bad hands, but she found joy as well in long summer evening walks through Ambridge’s neighborhoods, watching her favorite shows, slot machines at casinos, singing, seeking out Spanish-speakers for random conversations, but perhaps most of all, sitting around a dinner table with family and friends.

There was no public visitation for Narciza. However, family and friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial on Saturday, March 8th at 10 a.m. in the Good Samaritan Catholic Church, 725 Glenwood Avenue, Ambridge. Interment will follow in the Good Samaritan Catholic Cemetery.

Geri Goff Lint, 83, of New Brighton, passed away unexpectedly on March 3rd, 2025 at Heritage Valley Sewickley.

She was born in Beaver Falls on December 26th, 1941, a daughter of the late Gerald and Anne (Krupa) Goff. She is survived by her daughters, Lisa Lawson and Leslie Lint, grandchildren: April, Allison, Amanda (Jared) Andersen, Adam and Quintin; great-grandchildren: Michelle, Lillian, Aubrey, Kozmo, Gaius, David and Luke; her sister, Greer (John) Morelli, her brother, Gerald (Peggy) Goff Jr. and close family members, Tonie Labon and Deneen Muhl.

Geri retired from the Beaver County Unemployment Office where she worked as a case manager. Geri loved family time, having dinner together and game night. Some of her favorite games were Scrabble, crosswords and spades.

Friends will be welcomed to a Memorial Visitation on Saturday, March 8th, from 2-4 p.m., at the J&J Spratt Funeral Home, 1612 3rd Avenue, New Brighton.

In Lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Beaver County Humane Society, https://beavercountyhumanesociety.org/ in Geri’s name.

Darrell N. Kotchka, 88, of Rochester, passed away on March 3rd, 2025 at Passavant Retirement Community of Zelienople, surrounded by his three daughters and granddaughter. He was born in Stuebenville, Ohio on June 22, 1936, a son of the late Norman & Alyce Kotchka. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife Jean (Cervi) Kotchka, his sister and brother-in-law, Rita & Pete Adania, his brothers, David Kotchka and Gary (Patricia) Kotchka, a nephew, Brian Kotchka and a brother-in-law and sister-in-law, John and Janis Nola. He is survived by his three daughters, Kristen Theiss of Bethesda, Maryland, Karen Kotchka of Baltimore, Maryland and Kimberly (Robert) Grabel of Philadelphia, three grandchildren, Nikolas Theiss, Alexandra V. Theiss and Alexandra (Devin Kelly) Grabel, four sisters-in-law: Nancy Kotchka of Phoenix, Arizona, Mary (John) Gaydos of Beaver, Patricia Mrkonja of Coraopolis and Jan Nola of Bethel Park, one brother-in-law, James (Kathy) Cervi of Spencer, Massachusetts, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and godchildren.

Darrell grew up in the Stephens Phillips Homes in Monaca and graduated from Monaca High School in 1954. He earned his Associates Degree in Business at Garfield Business Institute after serving 4 years in the U.S. Air Force. He worked his way up through industrial management at Colonial Steel and N F & M Titanium in Monaca, ultimately serving as Vice-President of Operations for the last decade plus of his career. Darrell was a member of St. Cecilia Church of Rochester where he was an 8th grade CCD Teacher for 35 years, a Eucharistic Minister and a valued Parish Council member. He coached Pony League Baseball in Monaca, led a Boy Scout Troop at the Monaca Waterworks and was a long-time volunteer at McGuire Home. Darrell was a member of the Knights of Columbus and the Beaver County Holy Name Society.

Darrell married his wife Jean in 1958 and began a 62-year partnership that centered around family, faith, fun and hard work. They enjoyed visiting children and grandchildren in many corners of the country. Darrell was always ready for an adventure with his children and had no problem getting in a canoe with his daughter (though he couldn’t swim well), going to Jackson Browne concerts or riding a ski lift chair to the top of the mountain just for fun. Darrell loved music and reading and could frequently be seen on his front porch, immersed in a good book and listening to music. He believed strongly in justice, fairness and service to others which inspired those around him and left a legacy to follow.
Darrell loved his family unconditionally and set a glowing example of a life well-lived.

Arrangements are entrusted to the William Murphy Funeral Home, Inc., 349 Adams St., Rochester, where visitation will be held on Friday, March 7th from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. A Mass of Christian burial will be held at St. Cecilia Church, 632 Virginia Avenue, Rochester on Saturday, March 8th at 10 a.m. Interment will be in St. Cecelia Cemetery. Those who wish to express their condolences online can visit the William Murphy Funeral home webpage at williammurphyfuneral.inc.com for Darrell’s online tribute wall. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in honor of Darrell may be made be made to the McGuire Memorial Foundation at https://mcguirememorial.org/mcguire-memorial-foundation/.

Michael Alle Nicholson, 61, passed away on February 27th, 2025.

He was born in Newport News, Virginia on October 23rd, 1963. He is survived by his former wife Rhonda Nicholson of Ambridge, his sister, Rose Nicholson of Virginia Beach, Virginia, his brother, Maurice Williams, his wife Clara of Pittsburgh, his nieces Maurissa and Mia Williams of Pittsburgh, his nephew, Cole Nicholson of Virginia Beach, Virginia, his stepfather, E. Philip Williams, (mother Rose Marie Nicholson Williams, deceased), formally from Economy Borough, along with his cousins and friends.

Michael graduated from Ambridge High School, where he played football. He also earned a Bachelors Degree in Criminal Justice from West Virginia State University.

A visitiation will be held on Wednesday, March 5th from 6-8 P.M. in the John Syka Funeral Home, Inc., 833 Kennedy Drive, Ambridge.

 

Marjorie Ann Tatko, 90, passed away on March 3rd, 2025.

She was born in Rochester on June 18th, 1934, a beloved daughter of the late Ernest and Ann Inman, whose legacy of love and grace lived on through her.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her adored sister, Sandy Senior, her cherished son-in-law, PJ Grimes and her precious granddaughter, Julia Eckman.

Marge’s unparalleled devotion and boundless love will forever be carried on by her steadfast and loving husband of 68 years, Robert Michael Tatko, who stood beside her through every triumph and challenge.

In addition to her husband, she is also survived by her incredible brothers, Ernest (Barb) Inman and Robert (Betty) Inman; her fiercely loyal sisters, Eva (Skip) Dornam and Shirley Jersey; and her beloved children: Cynthia (Richard) Cunliffe, Susan Tatko, Bobbi (Sam) Naples, Beth Eckman (Bill Parish), John “Buzz” (Jessica) Tatko, and Kathleen (Joseph) Alvarez. Marge’s legacy of love extends to her adoring grandchildren, who were the light of her life: Phillip (Jenna) Cunliffe, Ryan Kemerer (Katie Zahn), Mathew (Caley) Kemerer, Bradley (Sydney) Eckman, Leeanna (Will) Norman, Kaylie Tatko, JT Tatko, Logan Tatko, Jeremy Eckman (Amanda), and Jeffery Eckman. Her great-grandchildren — Holden and Maddox Eckman, Raylan Norman, Haven Kemerer, Everleigh Thompson, Baker Cunliffe and Lucas Eckman who brought immeasurable joy to her heart. Marge’s cherished friendships with Greg Kemerer and Rick Eckman were also a treasured part of her life.

Marjorie was a woman of deep faith who served for many years as a devoted CCD teacher, imparting the love of God to the next generation. She was a lifelong member of Our Lady of the Valley Parish, where her spiritual light shone brightly. She also demonstrated an unwavering work ethic and pride in her younger years when she worked for Bell Telephone. She was an active and integral part of the Christian Mothers and the Freedom Football Mothers, giving tirelessly to her community.

However, her true legacy lies in the founding of the family business, Tatko Auto Salvage, a testament to her strength, ingenuity, and determination. Above all, Marge’s greatest love was for her family, her books and the beautiful moments shared with those she held closest to her heart. She also had a deep affection for horses, a passion that brought her great joy.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to Marge’s dear friends and caretakers, Liz Conrad and Kay Ohnezeit, for their unwavering love, care, and companionship. The family would also like to express a special thank you to Life Beaver for their compassionate care throughout the years, especially to Erin, whose dedication, kindness, and support brought comfort to Marge and her family.

Family and friends are invited to attend a visitation on Wednesday, March 5th from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m., at the J&J Spratt Funeral Home, 1612 3rd Avenue, New Brighton, where prayers will be held on Thursday, March 6th at 9:30 a.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 10 a.m. at St. Cecilia Church, 632 Virginia Avenue, Rochester with Fr. Paul Kuppe officiating.

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, 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, 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, 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.