Susanna Lee Bridgewater (1947-2025)

Susanna Lee Bridgewater (Edwards), 77, of Midland, formerly of Waterford, Michigan, passed away at home on September 24th, 2025.

She was born in Fort Dodge, Iowa on October 16th, 1947, a daughter of the late Leo and Cecilia Edwards. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Robert L. Bridgewater, her sister, Roberta “Bobbie” Confrey and her brothers, Leo “Butch” Edwards and Dewey Patrick Edwards, along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts and uncles. She is survived by her daughters, Christina M. (Christopher) Bader and Shelli A. (Patrick) Patterson, her brother, Alan Edwards, her sister, Pam Edwards, her grandchildren: Shelby, John, Joshuah, Zachary, Robert and Rachel; as well as her great-grandchildren: Emma, Logan, Averi, Quinn, Lucas, Sevin, Sunday and Shy.

Susanna was a resident of Midland later in life who retired as a teacher’s assistant, working with special needs children. She will be remembered as a devoted wife, loving mother, and proud grandmother and great-grandmother. She also participated in the Vietnam Veterans of America.

Friends will be received on Saturday, October 4th, from 3 p.m. until 5 p.m. at 1233 Virginia Avenue, Midland. All professional arrangements have been entrusted to the Noll Funeral Home, 333 Third Street, Beaver. Online condolences may be shared at nollfuneral.com.

James W. “Jim” White (1957-2025)

James W. “Jim” White, 68, of Baden, passed away peacefully on September 28th, 2025, at Heritage Valley Health System, Beaver Campus, following a valiant battle with cancer.

He was born in Beaver Falls on May 18th, 1957, a son of the late Andrew and Evelyn (Tress) White. He is survived by his siblings: Dennis (Kathy) White, Marilyn White, Barbara Jean (Ken) Graeser, Edward White, Donna Marie (Jose) Johnson, Daniel (Karla) White, and Patricia (Chris) Cahalan; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

James was a proud graduate of Beaver Falls High School with the Class of 1976, and worked as a skilled millwright for Abtrex in Leetsdale. He attended St. Monica Church of St. Augustine Parish in Beaver Falls, and found joy in archery competitions, fishing, and spending time at his beloved camp. He was known as a loyal and generous brother and friend, and he took exceptional care of his mother in her later years. His love for trains was lifelong and reflected his appreciation for craftsmanship, history, and the simple pleasures in life.

Friends and family will be received on Thursday, October 2nd from 4-8 P.M. at the GABAUER-LUTTON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, INC., 117 Blackhawk Road, Beaver Falls, who was in charge of his arrangements, and where departing prayers will be offered on Friday, October 3rd at 9:30 A.M. followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10 A.M. at St. Monica Church of St. Augustine Parish, 116 Thorndale Drive, Beaver Falls, with Fr. John Naugle as celebrant.

In accordance with James’ wishes, he will be cremated following Mass.

Inurnment will be private in St. Mary’s Cemetery, 2045 Darlington Road, Beaver Falls.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Carnegie Free Library of Beaver Falls, 1301 Seventh Avenue, Beaver Falls, PA 15010.

The family wishes to extend a heartfelt “Thank You” to Dr. Moon Fenton and the staff of Hillman Cancer Center, Beaver, for their care and compassion.

Roy V. Gavert, Jr. (1933-2025)

Roy V. Gavert, Jr., 91, of Beaver, passed away with his family at his side on September 27th, 2025.

He was born in Turtle Creek, Pennsylvania on December 16th, 1933, a son of the late Roy and Margaret Gavert. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his daughter, Kathryn Gavert and his sister, Jane Duffett. He is survived by his wife of nearly 70 years, Rita Jay Gavert, his daughter, Judy (Blaine) Coffey, four
grandchildren: Christopher and Patrick Ragazzini, Brittney (Adam) Potts and Alexis (Patrick) Kelley; along with his great-grandchildren, James and Luke Potts and
Sloane Kelley.

Roy graduated from Bucknell University of Lewisburg, Pensylvania in 1955, served in
the U.S. Army and married his college sweetheart. He went on to receive his master’s degree from the University of Detroit of Detroit, Michigan. He was a resident of Beaver since 1969 who had a long career with Westinghouse Electric, retiring as an Executive Vice President in 1989. Roy was active in the business community, serving as a board member of both Bucknell University and the Michael Baker Corporation. He was a lifelong member of the Duquesne Club, a member of the Sewickley Gun Club and a former member of both Beaver Valley Country Club and Oakmont Country Club. he was also a faithful member of First Presbyterian Church of Beaver.

A memorial service for Roy will take place at a later date. Burial at Beaver Cemetery on Buffalo Street in Beaver will be private. Professional arrangements have been entrusted to the Noll Funeral Home Inc., 333 Third Street, Beaver. Online condolences may be shared at nollfuneral.com.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Roy’s name may be made to First Presbyterian Church, 252 College Avenue, Beaver, PA 15009.

Elaine Ludovici (1939-2025)

Elaine Ludovici, 86, of Baden, passed away peacefully on September 23rd, 2025. She was born on June 3rd, 1939, a daughter of the late Alice and Oscar Bittner. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 59 years, Dominick Ludovici. She is survived by her devoted daughter, Cindy (Keith) Kristek, eight cherished grandchildren: Samantha (Matt) Lesak, Elijah (Caitie) Kristek, Ezekiel (Katie) Kristek , Jordan (Nikki) Kristek, Caleb Kristek , Phoebe Kristek , Malachi Kristek , and Celeste (Logan) Evagues; along with four great-grandchildren: Oliver, Alice, Emma, and Iris, her sister and best friend, Barbara Harsch, her brother, Robert Bittner, her sister-in-law, MaryJane Ferret, as well as several nieces and nephews.

Elaine found joy in sewing, quilting, gardening, and crocheting. She will be fondly remembered by many preschool children for the hats and mittens she lovingly made for them. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the nurses and staff at Beaver Valley Rehab and Nursing and Seven Oaks Hospice for the compassionate care they provided.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, October 11th at 10 a.m. at Saint Luke the Evangelist Church, 725 Glenwood Avenue, Ambridge. Interment will be private at Saint James Cemetery, 417 Water Works, Sewickley. Arrangements have been entrusted to Alvarez-Hahn Funeral Services and Cremation, LLC, 547 8th Street,  Ambridge.

Memorial contributions may be made in Elaine’s name to the Saint Vincent de Paul Fund.

Karen Lynn Capper (1942-2025)

Karen Lynn Capper, 83, of Beaver, dearly known for her warmth and boundless energy, passed away peacefully on September 26th, 2025, with her daughter, Debbie, and her brother, Bob, by her side.

She was born on August 25th, 1942, the daughter of the late Robert and Eva Mae Merrick. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 50 years, Charles “Brub” Capper and her brother, Theodore “Ted” Merrick. She is survived by her brother, Robert (Kris) Merrick, her two children, Debbie (Greg) Koepke and Gretchen (Peter) Lang, three stepchildren: Pamela Capper, Chad (Wendy) Capper, and Susan Capper, two grandchildren, William Koepke and Montgomery (Monte) Lang, ten step-grandchildren: Nicholas Marks, Chandler Lupo, Allison Capper Falconer (Wiley), Charles (Ava) Capper, Spencer Lupo, Andrew Capper, Sally DeVera, Colin DeVera, Jack Lupo, and Charlie Lupo. Karen graduated from Beaver Area High School before beginning her studies to become a concert pianist at Baldwin Wallace University in Berea, Ohio. Two years later, she shifted her focus to business administration and earned her degree from Robert Morris University in Moon Township in 1966. Karen was a most loving mother, wife, and grandmother.

After a long career in medical administration, continuing until the age of 80, Karen turned her full attention to the Merrick Art Gallery in New Brighton. Having served on the Women’s Council for decades, as a Co-Trustee since 2002 and the Trustee since 2009, she devoted herself fully to the gallery after retiring, embracing it as her new vocation and pouring her heart and energy into its care and growth. She was a longtime member of Park Presbyterian Church of Beaver, where she served multiple terms as an ordained Elder and Deacon, sang in the choir, and contributed as both a Bible study leader and participant. Karen had a gift for making people feel instantly at home in her presence, and her legacy endures through the kindness, grace, and joy she brought to every relationship. Karen lived her life with a rare blend of grace and exuberance. She embodied Christian kindness, deeply good at her core and unfailingly caring toward others, while at the same time brimming with energy. A force to be reckoned with, she poured herself completely into everything she touched, improving whatever she could and inspiring others to join her efforts. Whether through her church or the gallery, Karen had a gift for making things happen; it was impossible to say no to her! A party planner extraordinaire and the “hostess with the mostest,” she turned every holiday and gathering into an occasion to remember, with beautiful décor and thoughtful details that made family and friends feel cherished. Her devotion to her husband, children, grandchildren, and community was reflected not only in her work at the church and gallery, but also in the countless ways she made life special for those around her. She will be deeply missed, but her warmth, grace, and spirit will never be forgotten.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, October 2nd, from 4-7 p.m. at the Noll Funeral Home, Inc., 333 3rd Street, Beaver, who was in charge of her arrangements. A funeral service will occur on Friday, October 3rd at 11 a.m. at Park Presbyterian Church, 275 Commerce Street, Beaver. Private family interment will take place after the service. Online condolences may be shared at nollfuneral.com.

The family requests that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to The Merrick Art Gallery, 1100 5th Avenue, New Brighton, PA or Park Presbyterian Church, 275 Commerce Street, Beaver, PA.

Bonnie Louise (Logan) Hostetler (1950-2025)

Bonnie Louise (Logan) Hostetler, 75, of Moon Township, died on September 23rd, 2025 in Allegheny General Hospital of Pittsburgh. She was born in Conneaut Lake, Pennsylvania on March 19th, 1950, the daughter of the late Bryon & Freda (Feltenberger) Logan. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by two brothers, Jon Logan (survived by his wife Rhonda) & David Logan (survived by his wife Laura). She is survived by her loving husband of 32 years, Lee Hostetler, her devoted son, Seth Nicotra (Moon Township), her sisters-in-law, Sally (and Jim) Jones and Jane (and Bill) Krise and brother-in-law, Gary (and Cheryl) Hostetler. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

Bonnie was an employee of Auma Actuators for over 20 years. She enjoyed playing cards and games and loved to win! Planting flowers and growing plants gave her great joy. She was ever the matriarch of our family and was known for her practical no bones about it loving advice. Family was everything to her. She was a woman of God and helped guide many in our family to know Him. She loved music and hanging with her lifelong best friend, Dona (Sidlinger) Smith. She supported many different charities.

Friends will be received on Saturday, October 4th from 12 noon until the time of a Memorial Service at 1 P.M. in The Huntsman Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Moon Township, 1522 Coraopolis Heights Road, who was in charge of her arrangements. Private interment at the National Cemetery of the Alleghenies, 1158 Morgan Road, Bridgeville, will take place at a later date.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Tunnel to Towers Foundation. www.t2t.org, 2361 Hylan Boulevard, Staten Island, NY 10306.

Isabelle Clara Bowser (1940-2025)

Isabelle Clara Bowser, 84, of Monaca, passed away on September 27th, 2025, just shy of her 85th birthday. She was born on October 2nd, 1940 into a large and bustling family. Isabelle was the eldest of eleven children and took on the role of caregiver early in life, demonstrating a remarkable sense of responsibility and love. Isabelle’s life was marked by her dedication to her family and her work. Isabelle’s passing was preceded by the loss of her beloved mother, Clara Black, her cherished companion, John Potter, and several of her siblings: Thomas Bowser, Mary Bowser, Mildred Harrington, Elmer Yoho, Edith Seaman, Georgeann Collins and Helen Richeal. Despite these losses, Isabelle’s legacy continues through her surviving family members. She is survived by her sister, Caroline Jean Richeal of New Brighton and two brothers, George (Ermal) Yoho of Aliquippa and William (June) Yoho of New Brighton. Her memory will also be cherished by her numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews, and great-great-nieces and nephews, as well as countless friends and co-workers. After leaving school in the 7th grade, she devoted herself to raising her siblings. Her work ethic was unparalleled, as evidenced by her impressive 33-year tenure at Phoenix Glass in Monaca, from which she retired in 2004. Not one to rest on her laurels, Isabelle continued to serve her community through Bowser’s Catering for Ed and Anna Becker, where she worked diligently for another 19 years.

Isabelle was always on the move. Whether walking to her destination or traveling to new places. She was often seen out and about, making the most of every day. Her passion for exploration extended beyond her local community, as she also loved to travel and experience new places.

You can celebrate Isabelle’s life with her family on Wednesday, October 1st from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. at SIMPSON FUNERAL & CREMATION SEVICES, 1119 Washington Avenue, Monaca, who was in charge of her arrangements, and where services will be held on Thursday, October 2nd at 10 a.m. with Reverend Doug Rabe officiating. Interment will follow in Union Cemetery, 1346 Chapel Road, Monaca.

Isabelle had requested any memorial contributions in her memory be made to the Salvation Army, 378 Jefferson Avenue, Rochester, PA 15074.

Ermando DeVitis (1930-2025)

Ermando DeVitis, 95, of Conway, passed away on September 26th, 2025, in his home with loving family by his side. He was born in Lettopalena, Italy on July 30th, 1930, a son of the late Felice and Maria (Martinelli) DeVitis. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his loving wife of 70 years, Antonietta (Cavicchia) DeVitis and his siblings, Tony, Marienne and Rosina. He is survived by his three sons, Phil (Cindy) DeVitis, Eugene (Tracy) DeVitis and Timothy DeVitis and a daughter, Maria (Michael) delaChevrotiere, five granddaughters: Justine (John) Holleran, Mya and Marisa delaChevrotiere and Bianca and Morgan DeVitis; as well as two great-grandsons, Jack and Ethan Holleran and two sisters, Linda and Anna.

Ermando served in the Italian Army and came to the United States in 1956. He enjoyed sharing stories from his time in Italy. Ermando loved soccer and even played the sport while living in Italy and here in the US. He was a fan of Italian music, played the accordion and was an avid dancer. Some of Ermando’s favorite pass-times were hunting for rabbits and gardening and he was said to have a “green thumb.” Ermando could even grow watermelon just by spitting seeds off the front porch. He was also great at building things. Ermando even built their home that they lived in for 57 years. He also enjoyed building various things: an outdoor living space for his hunting dogs (whom he adored), a swing and highchair for his great-grandson, paper hats for his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He even made delicious homemade wine.  Ermando knew life was short and made sure to tell everyone “Life is beautiful” and  to always “Enjoy your life.”

All are welcome to gather for a visitation for Ermando on Tuesday, September 30th, from 4-7 P.M., in the John Syka Funeral Home Inc., 833 Kennedy Drive, Ambridge, who was in charge of his arrangements and where a Blessing Service will be held on Wednesday, October 1st at 10:30 A.M. Interment will follow in Calvary Cemetery in Freedom. In lieu of flowers, donations are suggested to the Beaver County Humane Society, 3394 Broadhead Road, Aliquippa, PA 15001.

Betty Geraldine Sawyer (1939-2025)

Betty Geraldine Sawyer, 86, formerly of Aliquippa, passed away on September 25th, 2025. She was born in Meadowbrook, Pennsylvania on May 20th, 1939, a daughter of the late William Cox and Grace (Evans) Cox. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Jack Sawyer, her son, David Sawyer, her sisters, Marie Morrison, Thelma Ancell and Ella Mae Cox and her brothers, Gene, Dale, and Richard Cox. She is survived by her brother-in-law, Thomas W. (Francine) Sawyer and their daughter, Lynnell (Paul) Frank, as well as several nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews. Betty worked as a custodian for Blackhawk School. She enjoyed spending time with her family and loved reading her Bible and Christian books. She was also an animal lover and enjoyed going for walks with her dogs. The family would like to give a special thanks to Dr. Victor Singzon and staff and the entire Hospice Staff including Autumn, Chris, and Trish. A visitation for Betty will be held at Corless Kunselman Funeral Services, LLC, 3801 4th Avenue, Beaver Falls, who was in charge of her arrangements, on Tuesday, September 30th, from 5-7 P.M., where a funeral service will directly follow at 7 P.M. with Jeff Young officiating. Private interment will be held at Sylvania Hills Memorial Park, 273 PA-68, Rochester.

Jack L. Gearhart (1947-2025)

Jack L. Gearhart, 78, of North Fayette, Pennsylvania passed away on September 24th, 2025 in St. Clair Hospital of Pittsburgh. He was born in Pittsburgh on August 6th, 1947, the son of the late Frank & Iva (White) Gearhart. He is survived by his wife of 38 years, Dorothy “Dottie” (Grzeskiewicz) Gearhart, four children: Jack Gearhart (Lori) of Burgettstown, Kristie Wagner (Bill) of Collier Township, Laurie Ulizzi (Charlie) of Center Township and Jeffrey Czerwinski (Darlene) of Pittsburgh; as well as six grandchildren: Lauren, Mackenzie, Nicole, Emily, Joshua and Hayden; along with one surviving sister, Carol Young.

Jack earned an Associates Degree and worked in the construction field as an Iron Worker, Estimator and Project Manager. He also enjoyed watching financial news and political media.

Friends will be received on Tuesday, September 30th from 2-4 P.M. & 6-8 P.M. in The Huntsman Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Moon Township, 1522 Coraopolis Heights Road, Moon Township, who was in charge of his arrangements. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, October 1st at 10 A.M. in St. Columbkille Catholic Church, 103 Church Road, Imperial, Pennsylvania. Committal and entombment will follow at Resurrection Catholic Cemetery, 100 Resurrection Road, Coraopolis.