Marilyn C. Winkle, 78, of Rochester Township, passed away on December 20th, 2024 in her home. She was born on December 2nd, 1946, a daughter of the late Elder R. & Edna Landis Sr. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Calvin, a son, Michael Winkle, a son-in-law, Jeffrey Bable and a grandson, Eric Bable. She is survived by her daughter, Kimberly Bable, three grandchildren, Jeffrey (Meghan Schieman) Bable, Taylor (Tyler) Adams, and Chase (Zoey Blanchard) Winkle, a great grandson Thomas Jeffrey Adams, three brothers, Elder R. “Junior” (Donna) Landis, Samuel (Judy Frank) Landis and David Jay (Lori) Landis, a brother-in-law, Harold “Kuch” (Linda) Winkle and a daughter-in-law, Tammy Wright, along with numerous nieces and nephews.

Marilyn worked for many years at the Medical Center as a clinical technician. She was a longtime and active member of New Hope Evangelical Lutheran Church where she was a member of WELCA. She was the Judge of Elections for Rochester, enjoyed playing cards, and volunteering for Meals on Wheels.  She was an amazing mother, grandmother, aunt, and sister who will be missed.

Friends will be received on Thursday, December 26th, from 2-4 p.m. & 6-8 p.m. at Huntsman Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Rochester. A funeral service will be held on Friday, December 27th, at 11 a.m. in her church, New Hope Evangelical Lutheran Church, 200 2nd Avenue, Freedom.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to New Hope Evangelical Lutheran Church.

Josephine Elia Haslett, 97, of Rochester, known affectionately as Jo to her friends and family, passed away on December 19th, 2024, at the Passavant Community in Zelienople. She leaves behind a legacy of faith as a lifelong member of St. Cecilia Catholic Church of Rochester where she found much comfort in her faith.

Josephine was raised in Rochester and graduated from Rochester High School with the class of 1945. She was a daughter of the late Rocco and Sarah Elia. In addition to her parents, she was also preceded in death by her beloved husband, Thomas E. Haslett, her brothers, Chuck, Jimmy, Rocky and John, and younger brothers Joseph, Vincent, and Frank Elia and a special brother in law, Ralph Caratelli.

She is survived by her devoted children, Lynn Rutter and her husband Howard, and Roy Lambert and his wife Chavee. She was the proud grandmother to Kristin Jeffers and her husband Keith, Kelly Rupp and Claire Hogan and the adored great-grandmother to Josie Rupp and Connor Hogan. She is also survived by her sister Mary Caratelli.

Josephine’s professional life was as rich and fulfilling as her personal life. She spent many years working as a cook at her brother’s restaurant, Hollywood Gardens in Rochester where her culinary skills were greatly admired. Later, she later opened her own restaurant, Jo’s Snack Bar, in North Sewickley. She was also a talented seamstress.

Josephine found pleasure in gardening and reveled in the beauty of nature. Her passion for travel was evident as she had visited some forty-seven states. At the remarkable age of seventy-two, she learned to swim. Her interests in sewing, baking, and cooking not only brought her personal joy, but also made her home an inviting place for all. She had an ability to make everyone feel special and did so through her love of baking. The children of the McGuire Home especially looked forward to her delightful creations. Her house was renowned for its hot meals, special desserts, and much laughter.

Arrangements and services were entrusted to Simpson Funeral and Cremation Services of Monaca. Services were also entrusted to Saint Cecilia Catholic Church of Rochester.

The family has suggested memorial contributions be made, if desired to the McGuire Memorial Home of New Brighton.

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

Frederick G. Ward, Jr., 59, of LaPorte, Colorado, formerly of New Sewickley Township, passed away on December 18th, 2024. He was born in Rochester on February 19th, 1965, the son of the late Frederick G. Ward, Sr. and Linda L. Harley Ward. He is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Christine M. and Brydie Mitchell of Gunnison, Colorado, his former wife and friend Terri L. Randolph of Colorado, three brothers and sisters-in-law, Donald M. and Darla Ward, R.J. Ward, Sam and Jessica Ward, all of New Sewickley Township, a sister-in-law, Erin Ward, formerly of Patterson Township and three sisters and brothers-in-law, Tammie L. and Kevin Merriman of Volant, Pennsylvania, Kim A. Ralston and Bob Belsterling of Rochester Township, Jennie L. and Brian Henley of New Sewickley Township, as well as numerous nieces and nephews.In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Charlie B. Ward and a sister, Nicole L. Ward. He was employed at the City of Fort Collins, Colorado as a Building Inspector. He was a member of Burry’s St. John’s Evangelical United Protestant Church of New Sewickley. Fred was a graduate of Freedom High School in 1983, received a BA degree of Business in 1987 from Wittenburg University and a Master’s Degree from Western State College of Colorado in 1989. He was a member of Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity at Wittenburg. Fred was an avid outdoorsman who loved hunting, camping, fishing, 4-wheeling and riding motorcycles. He enjoyed life to the fullest and was known to be a hard worker, jack of all trades who helped anyone who needed him.  Friends will be received on Sunday, December 22nd from 2-4 P.M. and 6-8 P.M. in the William Murphy Funeral Home, Inc., 349 Adams Street, Rochester, and Monday, December 23rd from 10 A.M. until the time of service at 11 A.M. in Burry’s St. John’s Church, 1835 PA-68, New Sewickley. Officiating will be his former pastor, Rev. Win Grossclose. Interment will follow in Burry’s Church Cemetery. A Celebration of Life will also be held on February 22nd, 2025 at Fred’s home in LaPorte, Colorado. The family wishes memorial contributions be made to a charity of choice. The family wishes to especially thank the Bethany Hospice and Waters of Wexford caregivers.

Paul Clifford Carver, Sr., 92, of North Sewickley Township, passed away on December 18th, 2024 at his residence.

He was born in New Brighton on June 13th, 1932, the son of the late William Chester and Nellie Cusick Carver. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his loving wife of seventy-one years, Eleanor Grace Oliver Carver, brother, Chester Carver, sister, Gloria West, grandson, Thomas Clair Carver and son-in-law, Delaney Kitts. He is survived by his children: Paul Clifford, Jr. (Carolyn) Carver of New Brighton, John Michael (Jeri) Carver of Darlington Township, Debra Marie Kitts of Hopewell Township and William George Carver of Brighton Township; his grandchildren, Nathan (Kristine) Carver, Patrick (Andreea) Carver and Stacy Jo (Joel) Sanders, five great-grandchildren: Isabell Carver, Thomas Carver, Emma Carver, Julia Carver, and Abigail Carver; cousin, Shirley Cusick, as well as several nieces and nephews.

Paul was a 1950 graduate of Beaver Falls High School and a Corporal of the US Army during the Korean War. Following the war, he spent twenty-six years working at B&W as an electrician.

Paul was also very active within his community. He was a member of the Concord Church, A Global Methodist Congregation, and a pack leader for Boy Scouts of America. He was also a past member of the Riverside Lions Club and the Riverside School Director for eight years.

Friends will be received Sunday, December 22nd from 2-4 P.M. and 6-8 P.M., as well as on Monday, December 23rd from 10 A.M. until the time of service at 11 A.M. at Corless-Kunselman Funeral Services, LLC, 3801 4th Avenue, Beaver Falls.

Interment will be private at Concord Church Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made if desired to the Concord Church, 285 Concord Church Road, Beaver Falls, PA 15010.

Roberta J. Cupp, 85, of New Sewickley Township, passed away at home on December 15th, 2024. She was born on January 27th, 1939, the daughter of the late William and Ada May Wolfe. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her daughter, Holli Cupp, as well as all of her beloved puppies who passed away over the years. She is survived by her daughter, Jodi Wolfe, and her partner, Laurie Pettner. Roberta was a certified STNA home health aide, retiring at the age of seventy. She had a passion for western movies and dancing, and she adored flowers, especially gardenias. Her memory will remain in the hearts of all who loved her. In accordance with her wishes, funeral services will be private. Arrangements have been entrusted to Alvarez-Hahn Funeral Services and Cremation, LLC, 547 8th Street, Ambridge.

Keith Edward Speerhas, 87, of Enon Valley, passed away on December 17th, 2024 in the comfort of his home. 

He was born in New Brighton on April 10th, 1937, the son of the late Henry and Ruth (Hocanson) Speerhas. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Joyce (Thomas) Seiter and a sister-in-law, Marge Speerhas. 

Keith is survived by his lovely wife of 64 years, Elizabeth “Betsy” (McRoberts) Speerhas, his daughters, Lisa (Paul) Fernandez, Amy Speerhas, and Beth (Phil) McClymonds, grandchildren: Luke Fernandez, Jacob (Rebecca) Fernandez, Hannah (Paul) Bowers, Andy (Maggie Moore) McClymonds, Ryan (Devyn Moye) McClymonds, and Olivia McClymonds; a great granddaughter, Ella Fernandez, his brother, Dean Speerhas, a sister, Marsha (Steve) Palyash, “unofficial daughter”, Barb Rowe, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and friends. 

Keith was a machinist for his professional life and worked for Babcock & Wilcox Co. as well as Sekely Industries. He was a seventy-five year member of the Enon Presbyterian Church, where he served in various positions and was a proud Veteran of the United States Army.  In his free time, Keith could be found meticulously maintaining his lawn, garden, and vehicles.  He was an avid sports enthusiast and was fond of attending his grandchildren’s events. 

Friends will be received on Friday, December 20th from 2-4 P.M. & 6-8 P.M. in the GABAUER-LUTTON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, INC., 117 Blackhawk Road, Beaver Falls. 

Military Honors will be held in the funeral home on Saturday, December 21st at 11 A.M. followed by a funeral service in the funeral home chapel.  Dr. Darrell Knopp will officiate. 

Keith’s family wishes to extend a heartfelt “thank you” to his aide, Misty Evans, as well as Good Samaritan Hospice for their care and compassion. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Josh Gumbert Memorial Scholarship, c/o Blackhawk High School, 500 Blackhawk Road, Beaver Falls, PA 15010. 

Kathleen A. Francis, 75, of Koppel, passed away on Saturday December 14^th, 2024, in her home surrounded by her family. She was born on November 25th, 1949, in Conneaut, Ohio, a daughter of the late Theodore and Zenobia (Komorowski) Grubke. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband Richard K. Francis, a brother, Theodore Grubke Jr., a sister, Delores Marker, and a sister-in-law Judy Grubke. She is survived by her children: Kelli Leavens (Ron Mcintyre) of Pittsburgh, Stephani (Robert Sr.) Guidice of New Brighton, Cheri (Cliff) LeCrone of Petersburgh, Ohio, John (Tammy Myers) Toikkania, Kimberly Brim of Fenelton, Pennsylvania, Marcie Freed of Deltona, Florida, and Richard (Motoyo) Franis Jr. of San Diego, California; twelve grandchildren, seventeen great-grandchildren, a brother, Richard Grubke of Conneaut, Ohio, a sister-in-law, Nancy Grubke and several nieces, nephews, and friends.

Kathleen was a member of Holy Redeemer Parish in Ellwood City and was a booster for the Big Beaver Fire Company. She loved both her pets and her family, as well as shooting pool. She also loved being outside, fishing, gardening, and found a passion for horses.

The family would like to give a special thank you to Richie Massioni for all his care over the last several years, along with Three Oaks Hospice.

Friends will be received on Thursday, December 19^th from 11 A.M. until the time of a Blessing Service at 1 P.M. in the Gabauer Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc., 1133 Penn Avenue, New Brighton.

 

Joshua James Antoon, 43, of Aliquippa, passed away unexpectedly on December 16th, 2024 in his home.

He was born in Mayfield Heights, Ohio on April 2nd, 1981, the son of Joseph and Sally Antoon. In addition to his parents, he is survived by his brother, Adam Antoon, his sister, Heather Pisano (Jason), his nephews, Jacob Antoon and Bryce Dougherty, his niece, Madison Dougherty, his girlfriend Michelle Bryson, as well as many uncles, aunts and cousins. He is also survived by his girlfriend, Michelle Bryson, along with her daughters, Sydney Zapsic (Jimmy) and Cali Zapsic and his granddaughter Charlotte.

Joshua had a large and bright personality that will be missed by all that knew him. He was an extremely accomplished individual. Throughout his time, he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in English at Washington & Jefferson, along with a Masters in Theatre Education at Emerson College. He recently was very proud to have earned his Executive Master of Business Administration – Healthcare from the University of Pittsburgh. He pursued his interest in theatre by gracing the stage as countless memorable characters and growing to be the former President of the Board of the Bobcat Players Community Theater. Throughout his career at McGuire Memorial, Joshua held many positions, most recently as the Director of Risk Management. He made a positive impact and touched many lives during his tenure, he will be greatly missed by his McGuire Family.

Family and friends will be received Friday, December 20th from 3-8 P.M. at J&J Spratt Funeral Home, 1612 Third Avenue, New Brighton. An additional viewing will be held there on Saturday, December 21st at 9:00 A.M. until the time of prayers at 9:30 A.M. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at Holy Family Church, 521 7th Avenue, New Brighton.

Interment will follow at Saint Joseph’s Cemetery of New Brighton.

In lieu of flowers, we are kindly asking that you donate to the educational trust fund dedicated to Joshua’s niece and nephews.

Thomas F. “Tom” Lodovico, Sr., 86, of Beaver, passed away on December 16th, 2024, at Franciscan Manor.
He was born in Rochester on October 3rd, 1938, the son of the late Nicholas and Relva Lodovico. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, David Lodovico, nephew, David Lodovico Jr., great-niece, Sophia Lodovico, and three brothers-in-law, William M. Flynn, Jack (Kathryn) Flynn and Robert Flynn. He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Beverly Lodovico, his children: Thomas F. (Kelly) Lodovico Jr. of Beaver, Steven W. (Dana Soltis) Lodovico of Pittsburgh, Elaine M. (Bill) DiCioccio of Center Township, and Robert J. Lodovico of Beaver, sisters-in-law, Betty Lodovico, Sarah Katis and Jayme Flynn, grandchildren: Morgan (Dylan Seamans) Lodovico, Ashley (Jacob) Morrison, Courtney Lodovico, Alexis DiCiccio, and Aidan Poindexter; great-grandchildren, Lilah Kline and Mason Morrison, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Thomas was a proud veteran of the U.S. Navy, having served in the Vietnam War. He worked for nearly 30 years at the former Westinghouse, now Eaton Corporation, enjoying a well deserved early retirement. He was an active former member of the Steel City Boogie Dance Club. Thomas will not only be remembered for his intense love of travel every chance he got, but for his master carpentry skills. He was not your average sports enthusiast. He often created extra long lunches and made excuses to steal time away from work to watch his children, and grandchildren play in all their sporting events. He will be remembered for his collection of beautiful, extravagant sweaters that he collected over his travels, but also in the home movies he created.

Friends will be received on Wednesday, December 18th from 4-8pm in the Noll Funeral Home Inc., 333 Third Street, Beaver. A Mass of Christian Burial will be conducted on Thursday, December 19th at 10:30 a.m. at Saints Peter and Paul Church, 200 Third Street, Beaver, PA 15009. Online condolences may be shared at www.nollfuneral.com.
Military Rites will be conducted immediately following Mass.
Private entombment will take place at Beaver Cemetery Mausoleum.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Our Lady of the Valley Parish, Saints Peter and Paul Church, 200 Third Street, Beaver, PA 15009, or the Alzheimer’s Association at www.act.alz.org.