James Stephen Myak of Erie, PA, formerly of Beaver, passed away following an unexpected medical incident on March 4, 2024.

Jim, 67, was born in Scranton, PA on February 20, 1957. He was preceded in death by his parents, Evelyn and Stephen Myak Jr. Jim will be greatly missed by his brothers, Robert (Gayle) Myak of Ohio, Kenneth Myak of Utah, and Thomas Myak of California; sisters, Judith (Larry) Parker of Virginia, and Karen Myak of Pennsylvania; brother-in-law, Dave Karaban; nephews, Robert and Greg Myak; and nieces, God-child Rachael and Jessica Myak, and Michelle Parker.

As a graduate of Beaver High School, Jim always came home for reunions. He was a man with a big heart. His friends can attest that he really loved socializing, always bringing family and friends together. Even in death, he provides an opportunity again to bring loved ones together to celebrate his larger than life spirt. Jim enjoyed an exciting career for more than 30 years as an Air Traffic Controller Supervisor with the U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Aviation Administration before retiring December 3, 2012. Jim had a real passion for music with an eclectic taste but undoubtedly had one favorite musician, Bruce Springsteen, in which he attended over 75 performances. More recently, Jim picked up a guitar and was hooked on learning all his favorite classic songs. Jim’s home was the focal point for friends and family events in which Jim was the most generous host including his Friday night gamers, his Tall Ship and Polish Festival weekends. Sitting around the campfire at his house, sipping on one of his rare bourbons, he loved reminiscing about his adventures, the glory days. He loved to travel to visit family, and his favorite place to go especially with his friends was Pigeon Forge. Jim’s other passion was working and supporting his friend’s local bar, Lefty’s in which he considered them as part of his family. The holiday spirit was large in Jim carrying on his Dad’s tradition of over-the-top decorations, generous gift giving and binge-watching all the Hallmark Holiday specials. He even dressed as Santa for his friends’ grandchildren and charity events.

Friends and family will be received Monday, March 11, 2024, from 2 p.m. until 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. in the Noll Funeral Home, Inc., 333 Third St., Beaver, 15009. A brief prayer service will be conducted at 4 p.m. A Celebration of Jim’s life will be held at a later date in Erie, PA. Online condolences may be shared at nollfuneral.com.

Jim was deeply saddened by the loss of friends due to suicide. In lieu of flowers, you can make a donation to support the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988lifeline.org.

Janet Marie Paxton, 70, of Rochester, passed away Thursday, February 29, 2024, in Heritage Valley Beaver. She was born March 18, 1953, in Geneseo, Illinois and was the daughter of the late Edward E. and Marjorie Bouwins Paxton. Janet was preceded in death by her fiance, Paul R. Buttermore. Janet is survived by one brother and sister in law, David E. and Monica Paxton, Geneseo, Illinois and very special friend Linda Mohr. She was a retired hairdresser and a member of the Women of the Moose, Lodge 990. Janet was Catholic by faith.
Janet’s wishes were to be cremated with no services.
Arrangements are being entrusted to The William Murphy Funeral Home, Inc., 349 Adams Street, Rochester, PA.

Joyce A. Barr, 73, of New Brighton, formerly of Rochester, passed away Tuesday, March 5, 2024, in Brighton Rehab and Wellness. Born July 7, 1950, in Rochester. Joyce was the daughter of the late James F. Sr., and Anna Mae Walker Barr and Joyce’s step-mother Naomi Smith Barr. Joyce was preceded in death by two brothers, David G. Barr in 2011 and James F. Barr, Jr. in 2022. Joyce is survived by one son and daughter in law, Frederick D. and Kimberly Shegog, of Drexel Hill, Pennsylvania. She is also survived by a granddaughter, Megan Riley, of Florida, one brother and two sisters in law, Mychal W. and Amy Barr, of Lansdale, PA., Elaine Barr, of Beaver Falls, nephew Mychal Barr, of Glenside, PA., great nephew Myles B. Barr, great niece Layla Jade Barr, of Glenside, PA., Joyce’s best friend Caryl J. Sheffield, of Florida and numerous cousins.
She was a retired social worker in Beaver County, a member of the Second Baptist Church, Rochester, where she was a member of the church choir. Joyce was a 1968 graduate of Rochester High School and was a member of the band. She received her B.S. Degree in Sociology from Cheyney State College in 1974. Joyce was a strong advocate for mental health awareness. Joyce was also a “Friend of Bill”, being in AA for a number of years.
Friends will be received Wednesday March 13, 2024 from 10 AM until 12 noon at the Second Baptist Church, Rochester, PA. A service will follow at 12:15 P.M., and officiating will be Pastor Cicero Lassiter. Interment will follow at Beaver Cemetery.
Arrangements have been entrusted to The William Murphy Funeral Home, Inc., Rochester, PA.
The family wishes memorial contributions be made to the Beaver County Mental Health Association, 105 Brighton Avenue, Rochester, PA.

Walter Peter Kosek, 72, of South Beaver Township, passed Wednesday, March 6, 2024 in the Beaver Valley Health Care and Rehabilitation Center, South Beaver Township after he had bravely navigated disability and illness for over 20 years.

Walt was born April 13, 1951 in Beaver Falls, and was the son of the late Peter & Nellie (Wojtkiewicz) Kosek.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by very special cousin Linda Koziar.

He is survived by a sister and brother-in-law Stephanie & Larry Wingard of Beaver Falls; a beloved niece Sara and Andy Golubitsky; a great nephew Theo Golubitsky; very close and special cousins Debbie & Bill McClarey, Mark & Val Wojtkiewicz and numerous cousins.

He loved his family and family gatherings. He was a wonderful cook and often entertained family with his culinary skills.  Walt had an encyclopedic knowledge of history, music and sports.  He was an avid Civil War buff and a voracious reader.

Special thanks to Debbie and Bill McClarey, Mark and Val Wojtkiewicz and Mary and Bob Bittner for their care and help over the many years. The family would also like to thank the staff at the Beaver Valley Health Care and Rehabilitation and Gateway Hospice for their kind and compassionate care.

To those who knew Walter, they say “The dude abides.”

According to Walter’s wishes, there will be no visitation or services.

Inurnment took place in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Chippewa Township.

Arrangements by Hill & Kunselman funeral home, www.hillandkunselman.com, 3801-4th Avenue, Beaver Falls, PA 15010.

Memorial contributions may be made if desired to the Beaver Falls Carnegie Free Library, 1301 7th Avenue, Beaver Falls, PA 15010 in Walter’s memory.

Willa “Billie” (Snyder) Landsbach passed away on February 28, 2024, at Celebration Villa of Chippewa, where she had been a resident for several years.

She was born in Beaver Falls on April 19, 1933, to Royal Snyder and Mabel (Cooper) Snyder.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, Wayne Snyder; her sisters Sheryl Rimbey, Florence “Slim” Johnston and Juanita Kast; and her daughter, Amy Roberts.

She is survived by her daughter, Deborah Smith; her sister, Esta Weiss; six grandchildren, Jason, Nichole, Nate, Jennifer, Jaymie, and Tyler; and numerous great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

Billie attended Beaver Falls High School, where she played basketball, and graduated in 1951.  She was employed at many Beaver County businesses, including the Chuck Wagon restaurant, Westinghouse, and Giant Eagle.

Billie played in many bowling leagues in her younger days, had many lifelong friends and often told stories of the fun they had together.  Billie enjoyed family and was a passionate Pittsburgh sports fan.

Most importantly, she was a beautiful and ever-caring mother who always opened her arms, home, and heart to help others.  She adored children and they loved her in return.

To honor her remembrance, donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

A private interment will be at Sylvania Hills Memorial Park, Rochester, as well as a Celebration of Life service.

The Gabauer-Lutton Funeral Home of Chippewa Township provided care and guidance.

Stephen J. Bednar, 91, of Daugherty Township, passed away Monday, March 4, 2024, at Celebration Villa, Chippewa.

Born August 7, 1932, in New Brighton he was a son of the late Louis and Anna (Procovich) Bednar.  Stephen was a member of New Brighton High School’s class of 1950.  He went on to obtain a Bachelor’s degree in Education from Geneva College.  He was a veteran of the United States Army.  He was a retired Science and Math teacher from Big Beaver Falls School District.  While teaching he took night school at the University of Pittsburgh to get a Master’s degree.  Catholic by faith, he was a former member of Our Lady of the Valley Parish, Holy Family.

Surviving Stephen are his nieces, Wilma (Frank) Farkas, Eileen Fritz, Goddaughter, Judy Lutz, friends, Deric and Chelsea Bolland, and many nieces and nephews.

Along with his parents, he was predeceased by sisters, Amy Malichky, Sophie Kirchel, Mary Kuberski, and Anna Rossa, brothers, John, William, and Louis Bednar, and special friends, Theresa and John Matotek.

Friends are welcome Saturday from 930am until the time of prayers at 11:30am, in the J&J Spratt Funeral Home, 1612 3rd Ave, New Brighton, followed by a Mass of Christian burial at, Our Lady of the Valley, Holy Family, at Noon.

Entombment will follow at Beaver Cemetery.

Bernard “Bernie” A. Catalucci passed peacefully into the waiting arms of Jesus surrounded by his loving family at the home of his daughter Lisa and her husband, Wendell on 03/05/2024.
Bernie was born March 2, 1929, at his boyhood home in Conway, PA and had just celebrated his 95th birthday on Saturday 03/02/24.
He was preceded in death by his wife Hilda (Montini), and his parents, Domenick and Rosanna (Cuda) Catalucci, and his ten siblings including an infant brother, Anthony, as well as Louis (Catalina), Mike, Gilbert, Teresa (DeStefano), Florence (Celio), Pearl (Guy), Christine (Campbell), Mary (Parretta), and Adeline “Cookie” (Lange).
Bernie and his wife Hilda were blessed with five children who survive him: Brian (Lise) Catalucci (Denver, CO), Norman (Laura) Catalucci (Aliquippa, PA), Jeffery (Becky) Catalucci (Aurora, OH), Elisea (Wendell) Hill (New Galilee, PA), and Jeannine (Mark) Lefebvre (Denver, CO).
Bernie and Hilda also had eight grandchildren: Melissa, Jessica, Michael, Amadeus, Travis, Desiree, Ciera, and Trinity, and seven great-grandchildren: Dakota, Tallon, Ayla, Wyatt, Walker, Daniele, and Katalina, with another one on the way, due in April.
Bernie was an industrious, resourceful, and hard-working man who started at an early age. He held many different jobs through the years, including being an Usher at the Ambridge Movie Theater, and babysitting for a neighbor’s family, (which was where he met his future wife Hilda while she was visiting her aunt and uncle.) He also worked at Conway Airport where he serviced and tended airplanes. When working at the airport Bernie would often go “joy-riding” with older friends who could fly. Amazingly, Bernie walked away from two separate airplane crashes.
Bernie graduated from Ambridge High school in 1948. During high school and after graduation, he often worked for his brothers, Mike and Gilbert, at their local beer distributor, the ‘Catalucci Brothers’ in Conway. Bernie made deliveries to local bars, taverns, and restaurants, driving the beer delivery truck despite not possessing a driver’s license at the time.
It was during this period, Bernie began courting his future wife, Hilda (Montini) and they were married in 1950. Bernie and Hilda spent the next 68 years together until she passed away in 2018. Bernie also joined the Army Air Corp (Air Force) in 1951 where he served as a Staff Seargent and a senior cook, preparing delicious food for the troops who were serving in Okinawa during the Korean Conflict. In 1954, Bernie was discharged and returned home to continue his diverse career path. He worked at American Bridge as a
laborer, and also at the U.S. Post Office as a letter carrier.
During this time, while continuing to support his wife and young family, Bernie attended and successfully completed night classes at Geneva College for eight years to obtain his teaching degree. Bernie eventually fulfilled his true ambition and dream to become a grade school teacher. Bernie taught 4th, 5th and 6th grades for the Monaca School District where he taught his favorite subject, history, in addition to science
and math. His many students affectionately referred to Bernie as “Mr. C”.
Bernie held many other jobs and volunteer positions including being a Boy Scout Cub Master, a Eureka Vacuum salesman, a Security Guard for a small airline company, and Driver for Avis Car Rental. Bernie’s love of history had him working at many local historical sights and Indian dig sites as an amateur archeologist. Bernie was an enthusiastic member of the local Amokowi Chapter of the
Society for Pennsylvania Archaeology and was particularly involved with the Beaver County and Western Pennsylvania Historic Society, and he has served on the Board of Directors for the Vicary House Mansion for more than two decades. He was also intricately involved with the Beaver County Historic Research & Landmarks Foundation where Bernie was responsible for the creation and installation of many of the prominent blue cast Landmark plaques on so many local historic sites in and around Beaver
County. Bernie was also intimately involved with the excavating of Ft. MacIntosh archaeological site in Beaver, PA.
Bernie was a devout Catholic who loved everyone, who always turned the other cheek, and who always forgave everyone. He faithfully attended the local Catholic church in whatever area he was living, including Our Lady of Peace in Conway, and St. Titus in Aliquippa. Bernie was one of the original founding members of St. Francis Cabrini Church in Center Township.
Visitation will be Thursday from 3 to 7 pm in the Anthony Mastrofrancesco Funeral Home, 2026 McMinn St., Aliquippa, PA 15001 (724) 375-0496.
Departing prayers will begin Friday at 9:30 AM in the funeral home, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at Mary Queen of Saints Parish, Saint Francis Cabrini Church at 10:00 AM. Interment will follow at Saint James cemetery in Sewickley.
The Beaver County Special Unit will conduct full military honors at the cemetery.
Bernie will be sadly missed by his many friends and family. In lieu of flowers, please consider sending a donation to the Beaver County Historical Research & Landmarks Foundation, c/o The William Vicary Mansion 1235 Third Ave, Freedom, PA 15042. (724) 775-1848.
Bernie will be sadly missed by his many friends and family. In lieu of flowers, please consider sending a donation to the Beaver
County Historical Research & Landmarks Foundation, c/o The William Vicary Mansion 1235 Third Ave Freedom, PA 15042. (724) 775-
1848.

James David Kennedy, 94, of South Beaver Township, went home to be with his Lord on Sunday, March 3, 2024, at Providence Care Center, Beaver Falls.

Born on December 2, 1929, in Morgantown, WV, he was the son of the late Nora (Henderson) Kennedy.

James enlisted into the US Army at the age of 14 with a heart to serve. Upon completion of bootcamp, the US Army discovered his true age, and elected to have James repeat the basic training over from day one, until the paperwork required for release could be processed. On his third completion of basic training, he was honorably discharged from the United States Army.  He then enlisted in the US Marine Corps the moment he was of age and served 2 tours. Beyond the uniform, James was a devoted family man and strong believer in Jesus Christ. Semper Fidelis is the Marine Corps motto, meaning “Always Faithful” and that was clearly written into his heart from birth as he displayed the character of a man who would always persevere, always stand on what’s right, and always choose to follow the steps of his Faithful God. A member of Chippewa Alliance Church, he served as an Elder and Sunday School teacher for many years. James was a humble servant who also had a heart to minister to the elderly and hospitalized.

His unwavering commitment to both his faith in Jesus and his sacrificial love for others will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him. As we bid an earthly farewell to this truly remarkable man, may the memories of his love, faith, and sacrifice continue to bring comfort to those who mourn his passing from this life. Let us rejoice, however, as his soul now rests eternally in the presence of the Most High God whose love endures forever.

In addition to his mother, James was preceded in death by his wife of 45 years, Treva (Hart) Kennedy; a daughter, Judtih Kennedy; and two brothers, Frederick and Richard Kennedy.

He is survived by his children, James (Bonnie) Kennedy and Alice “Sue” (Richard) Riley; five grandchildren, David (Denise), James (Brigette), Matthew, Kyle, and Cullen; numerous great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, March 9^th at 11AM at Chippewa Alliance Church, 3629 37^th Street Ext., Beaver Falls, PA.  The Beaver County Special Unit will accord military honors prior to the service.

Private interment will be in Sylvania Hills Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in James’ name to Chippewa Alliance Church.

The GABAUER-LUTTON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, INC., Chippewa Twp., 117 Blackhawk Road, Beaver Falls, is honored to be caring for Jim and his family.

Timothy C. Smith, 75, of Sewickley, passed away on Sunday, March 3, 2024, at Good Samaritan Hospice House, Marshall Twp. Tim was born on September 10, 1948, in Sewickley, to the late Charles H. and Eleanor (Jones) Smith. He was a member of Baden Methodist Church for many years and retired from FedEx in 2010 after 21 years of service. He proudly served his country as a member of the United States Navy during the Vietnam War. Preceding him in death in addition to his parents were brothers-in-law, George Bell, Nick Woodham, Paul Sandrock, George Woodham, sister-in-law, Ann Kuharsky and nephew, Stephen Woodham. He is survived by his wife Alice (Woodham) Smith and son, Brandon T. Smith, both of Sewickley, PA, a sister, Patricia Bell of Beaver Falls, PA, numerous nieces and nephews and great nieces and great nephews. Friends will be received on Sunday, from 1-5 PM in the John Syka Funeral Home, Inc. 833 Kennedy Drive, Ambridge. Family and friends will meet on Monday, at Little Hill United Methodist Church, Magee Road Extension, Sewickley, where a funeral service will be held at 11 AM. Interment will full military honors provided by the Beaver County Special Unit and the United States Navy will follow in the church cemetery. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions are suggested to Good Samaritan Hospice, 146 Neely School Road, Wexford, PA 15090.

Robert “Bob” E. Tracy Jr., a loving, caring, and advice-giving husband, father, and grandfather, died peacefully at home on Sunday, March 3^rd surrounded by his loving wife and children.

Born on December 12, 1937, in New Brighton, PA, Bob enjoyed his childhood on “Oak Hill” and graduated from New Brighton High School. He started his career at the Beaver-Lawrence County AAA Motor Club where he worked from 1956-1976 as the Business Manager. Bob then founded the Bob Tracy Insurance Agency, Vanport, Beaver, PA in 1980, serving his many clients with honesty and integrity until his retirement in 2008. A man of Christian faith, Bob was a member of First Presbyterian Church, Beaver, PA.

Bob’s love of people and his community led him to serve on numerous non-profit boards where he held various leadership positions including the New Brighton Area School Board, New Brighton School Building Authority, New Brighton Business District Authority, Beaver County Traffic Safety Council, Erie Insurance Advisory Council, Rochester Lions Club, and as President of the Bridle Oaks Homeowners Association in Venice, FL, and Terrace on the Square Condo Association, Beaver, PA.  Bob’s leadership on the Beaver County Transit Authority Board was instrumental in the strategic growth of the organization during his 34 years as a committed board member.  Bob also oversaw the reorganization of the Grove Cemetery board and operations in 2008, which has allowed this valued historic legacy to be preserved and perpetuated for future generations.

Bob and his wife Joan were snowbirds, living in both Beaver, PA and Venice, FL for over 23 years. Bob enjoyed the sunshine, golfing, and hosting many visiting friends and family in Florida. As the former owner of several boats, Bob loved sitting at the South Jetty in Venice with his first mate Joan watching the boats along the intercoastal waterway, while enjoying a McDonald’s Egg McMuffin or “gourmet” Filet-of-Fish sandwich.

Over the years, Bob enjoyed traveling with Joan to numerous places and had many wonderful moments seeing the world together.  Family was everything to Bob and he and Joan brought their children and grandchildren together for special celebrations and trips including cruises and beach vacations.

Bob’s smile, sense of humor, and way of making people feel special allowed him to have many life-long friends, in particular his golf buddies from the New Brighton Wednesday golf group and annual Getaway Golf Outings, his Erie Insurance agent colleagues who became his wonderful friends, and his weekly morning coffee group at Café Kolache where much discussion took place on solving the world’s problems.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Robert E. Tracy and Thelma Lane Tracy, a sister, Margaret Ellen Snowberger, a brother, James Robert Tracy, and a beloved granddaughter Anya Elyse La Mar.

Bob is survived by his wife Joan of 36 years, and his children, daughter Kelly (Ted) Marcucilli, Harrison NY, daughter Kathy (Patrick) Bingle, Beaver PA, son Rob (Cara) Tracy, New Brighton PA, stepson David (Michele) Hardesty, Vanport PA, and stepdaughter Sandra (Bob) La Mar, Pittsburgh PA.  Grandchildren Melissa Marcucilli (Dave Stahl)-NY, Aimee (Chris) Bester-NY, Annie (Andy) Grant-MA, Lana (Mike) Yoho, Chippewa PA, Ryan (Melissa) Hardesty, Chippewa PA, Tyler (Sarah) Bingle, Emsworth PA, Ryan White (Jessica Westfall), Rochester PA, Nicole (Mike) Greiner, Center Township PA, Carrie (Alex) Hill, Freedom PA, and Caleb Tracy, New Brighton PA.  Bob has eight great grandchildren, a cousin Melba Fry-OH, and two nephews, Marc (Dana) Tracy-GA, and Matthew (Stephanie) Tracy-FL, and sister-in-law Vicki Tracy-FL.

Visitation will be from 3-7 pm on Thursday, March 7^th at Huntsman Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Rochester located at 502 Adams St, Rochester, PA.  Friends will also be received from 10-11 am on Friday, March 8^th, at the First Presbyterian Church, Beaver, PA, followed by a funeral service and luncheon at the church. A private burial will be held at Grove Cemetery, New Brighton.   In lieu of flowers, donations in Bob’s memory can be made to the Anya Elyse La Mar Foundation at AnyasArmy.org