Richard (Rick) Alvin Yorns, 77, of Beaver Falls, passed away on September 14, 2024 at Heritage Valley Beaver surrounded by his loving family after a short, courageous battle with cancer. He was born on March 23, 1947, a son of the late Edward Peter Yorns and Arlene Kirschner Yorns. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Edward Michael Yorns, Sr. He is survived by his ex-wife, Susan; his children Brian (Jeanette), and Heather; his six grandchildren, Anthony, Kevan, Carlo, Alyssa, Peyton, and Domenic; great granddaughter, Lilith, his brother Bill (Eileen); sister, Jayne (Dave) Yhelka and many dear friends. He will be profoundly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Known for his unwavering dedication to the community, Rick left an unforgettable mark on the lives of many, shaping a legacy of compassion, leadership, and selflessness that will be remembered for generations.

Richard grew up in the New Brighton area. He was the owner/operator along with his family at Zirat Auto Electric and K & M Automotive where he fueled his passion for automotive repair for 45+ years. In addition to his love for cars he made the courageous decision to get sober, and for the last 14 years of his life, he remained a pillar of strength and hope in the recovery community. Through his involvement in Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), Richard not only turned his own life around but also dedicated himself to help countless others do the same. He was a compassionate sponsor, offering guidance and unwavering support to those struggling with addiction, always reminding them that recovery was possible. His legacy of kindness, resilience and selflessness will be remembered by all who knew him.

He was often described as the heart of every project he touched, a man who listened more than he spoke, and whose counsel was sought by many. His innate ability to connect with people from all walks of life made him not only a respected leader but also a trusted friend.

Friends will be received on Tuesday, September 17 from 4-8 P.M. in the CORLESS-KUNSELMAN FUNERAL SERVICES, LLC, 3801 4th Avenue, Beaver Falls, and Wednesday, September 18 from 10 a.m. until the time of service at 11 a.m. Pastor Allan Brooks will officiate.

Interment will follow at Sylvania Hills Memorial Park of Rochester.

His legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the causes he championed, and the hearts he inspired. His kindness, integrity, and quite strength will never be forgotten.

Patricia A. Kerns, 81, of Beaver Falls passed away on September 13, 2024 surrounded by her loving family. She was born on January 11th, 1943, in New Brighton and was preceded in death by her husband, Charles “Bud” Kerns. She is survived by her son, Christian Kerns, daughter, Jennifer Kerns Miller, daughter and son in law, Julia and Anthony Rubino, six cherished grandchildren, Alyssa Miller (Stefanie Irvin), Nicholas (Raejana) Miller, Christian (Emma) Kerns, Zachary (Tori) Miller, Isabel Rubino and Fiona Rubino, six great-grandchildren, Neila, Amora, Ronan, Nova, Nolan, and Holden Miller, four sisters, Becky (Rich) Palladini, Christine Russell, Frances Teapole, Johanna (Skip) Marsh and many nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, lifelong friends, and dear neighbors. All are a testament to her loving influence and enduring values.

She was lovingly known as Patty, and was an embodiment of strength, compassion, and unwavering support. Patty was a beacon of warmth and kindness whose light touched numerous lives. As a devoted homemaker, she cultivated a household of love and laughter, her home becoming a sanctuary for family and friends alike. Patty’s resilient spirit and loving nature were best reflected in her dedication to her family, her faith, and her community.

Patty’s compassionate heart found joy in the simple pleasures of life. An avid gardener, her hands nurtured fruits, vegetables and beautiful flowers, just as her love nurtured the lives of those around her. Patty’s love for cooking, baking, and canning filled her home with enticing aromas and unparalleled feasts. In her earlier years, her passion for macrame transformed simple threads into intricate masterpieces. Her decades-long involvement in Avon as a top seller not only demonstrated her supportive nature but also helped her form lifelong friendships. Patty was fulfilled by a day of hard work. She spent her days fueled by positive energy and a sense of purpose, adept at fixing nearly anything.

One of her favorite pastimes was watching her children and grandchildren excel in sports from elementary school through college, often traveling to multiple games in a single day. She was also an avid fan of the Pittsburgh Pirates. A faithful member of the Saint Monica Parish, she actively supported the Sisters of St. Joseph, embodying the verse from Galatians 6:2, “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ.”

Friends will be received on Monday, September 16th, from 2 p.m. – 8 p.m. at CORLESS-KUNSELMAN FUNERAL SERVICES, LLC, 3801 4th Avenue, Beaver Falls, where prayers will be held Tuesday at 9:20 a.m. Mass will follow at 10 a.m. at St. Monica Roman Catholic Church, 116 Thorndale Drive, Beaver Falls.

Patty’s final resting place will be at St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Cemetery.

In honor of Patty, we invite you to share your memories and upload photos to the memorial page on hillandkunselman.com reminding those of all the love, resilience, and compassion that marked her extraordinary life.

Betty Lou (Ferguson) Gussenhofen, 92, passed away on September 14, 2024. She was born on June 3, 1932, the daughter of the late Bruce and Dorothy (Martin) Ferguson. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Carl Gussenhofen; sister, Nancy Ann Close, and her brother, Bruce Eugene Ferguson.

She is survived by her daughter, Nancy Ann Dunn; son, Martin Gussenhofen; granddaughter, Marcy Gerhart (Ira); great-granddaughter, Fable Gerhart; and a grandson, Drake Gussenhofen.

A longtime resident of West Bridgewater and later Beaver, she was first employed as secretary for the Boy Scouts, and then worked 29 years in the Beaver School System.  There, she was instrumental in unionizing the school’s clerical staff.  Upon retirement, she worked for Leonard’s Antiques for 11 years, and later for Merrick Art Gallery, where she participated in the Women’s Council, setting many a table for bi-annual Teas.

Betty lived life to the fullest, affecting everyone around her.  She was involved in every aspect of the Bridgewater United Methodist Church, as well as many organizations including the Fireman’s Auxiliary, Women’s Club, Center Grange and Antique Club.  She loved to travel and try new things such as yoga, was a skilled seamstress and calligrapher, wrote poetry, and filled many photo albums with pictures of friends and loved ones.

Betty’s last 7 years were graciously lived at Franciscan Manor in Patterson Township, and sincere thanks go to all the staff who lovingly cared for her there.

Arrangements were entrusted to the GABAUER-TODD FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES (Branch), 340 Third Street, Beaver, who were honored to assist Betty’s family.

Dorothy A. Conner, 89, of Pulaski Township, passed away on September 7, 2024 at her home.

She was born on April 19, 1935, in New Galilee, the daughter of the late Bernard and Margaret (Davis) Conner. She is survived by her sisters, Nettie, Marie, and Margaret; numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

“Aunt Dorothy” as she was more affectionately known, was a Veteran of the United States Navy and had retired as a payroll clerk for Armstong World Industries.

In accordance with her wishes, all services were private. Interment was in Grove Cemetery, New Brighton.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to: Crazy Horse Memorial Foundation, 12151 Avenue of the Chiefs, Crazy Horse, SD 57730. This cause was near & dear to Dorothy.

Arrangements were entrusted to the GABAUER FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, INC., 1133 Penn Avenue, New Brighton, who were honored to care for Dorothy and her family.

Lubi Kuga, 95, passed away on September 12, 2024. She was born on June 25, 1929, a daughter of the late Milan and Millie (Perich) Jerich.  She was preceded in death by her husband, Peter Kuga, daughter, Donna Kuga, her two brothers, Samuel and Daniel Jerich and her loving sister Sarah Jerich. She is survived by her three children, Linda Kuga Pikulin, Curtis (Maggie) Kuga, and April Kuga.

Lubi was a life-long resident of Beaver County. She became a widow in 1974 at the age of 45 years old. She never remarried as she dedicated every moment of her life to raising her children. She ensured that each of us were well educated, independent, and confident so that we could build a better life for ourselves than the one she had lived for over nine decades. Over the years, people had a front row seat watching her embrace the triumphs and tragedies in life. Her greatest joy was the pride that she felt in her heart for each of us while facing unspeakable tragedy in the loss of her father and sister. Any child of any generation could only hope to have a mother dedicated to the well-being of her children. She had immeasurable strength to endure any challenge that she faced throughout her life. During the past few months, she embraced love and gratitude that she earned over a lifetime of unparalleled love and support. Her children were her legacy. She was resilient, fearless and grateful for the life that she lived.

Her family would like to thank Dr. Matthew Coombs for the many years of exceptional and compassionate care he provided for our mother. In addition, thanks are given to the care-giving staff that worked 24 hours a day to ensure that Lubi received the best possible care at home, as well as Marie, Caroline and Megan (Homemaker), and Jennifer and Holly (Home Instead). As Lubi then transitioned into Three Oaks Hospice Care, thanks are also given to Jen (a hospice nurse) and Rose (a hospice aid) for keeping Lubi comfortable and supporting her through the last few weeks of her life.

All services were private and arrangements were entrusted to Anthony Mastrofrancesco Funeral Home Inc., 2026 McMinn Street, Aliquippa.

Bruce L. Weis Jr., 95, passed away on September 9th, 2024, at his home in Aliquippa. Bruce had been recovering from a recent fall and was looking forward to a full recovery. He was born in Hagevo, a vanished coal town near Johnstown, Pennsylvania, on February 15, 1929, a son of the late Bruce L Weis and Alverda (Schaffer) Weis.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by three children: an infant son, Susan Elaine Johnston and Christopher Andrew Weis, two great granddaughters Audree Johnston and Kinlee Brinn Johnston, four siblings: Dorothy Carolus, Esther Barnes, Norman Weis and Jackson Weis, and his companion Barbara Saul.

Bruce is survived by two sons and daughters in law: Bruce Alan and Tsuyako Sandy Weis and Mark Edward and Marye Catherine Weis, seven grandchildren: Richard Gregory, Kimberly (Kristofer) Grohl, Kristopher (Joannie) Gregory, Patrick Johnston, Arthur (Amanda) Johnston, John (Paige) Johnston and Monica (Chance) Braud, 11 great-grand children, two siblings: Richard (Marylou) Weis and Ruth (Harry) Doyle, numerous nieces and nephews; and his best friend of over 60 years, Jim Farris.

Through perseverance and determination, Bruce made his way to college, graduating from the University of Pittsburgh, becoming part of the Western Pennsylvanian Banking community. Bruce was a retired Regional Vice President of First Seneca Bank, former Treasurer of the University of Pittsburgh (“Golden Panthers”) Alumni association and former President of the Beaver Valley Credit association.

Bruce took a strong interest in political affairs and, having been raised on a farm, could repair nearly anything, and he enjoyed discussing politics or repairs. He loved spending time in his woodshop and, after retirement, he fed and was concerned with the health of most of the cats in the (Plan Six) Aliquippa area.

A memorial service will be held on October 12, 2024 at 11 a.m. in Huntsman Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Aliquippa.

William O. Richardson, 87, formerly of Wampum, passed away on September 9, 2024 at the Beaver Valley Rehabilitation Center. He was born on June 28, 1937 in New Castle, the son of the late Talmadge and Mary (Groom) Richardson.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his three brothers, Wesley, Raymond, and Otis Richardson and four sisters, Eula Richardson, Regina James, Geraldine Robinson, and Erma (Cookie) Madden.

William worked at B&W for over 30 years. He loved to travel and read the Almanac. He enjoyed gardening and loved to listen to jazz music in his free time. He was a giver and provider which helped encompass his cheerful and joyful personality.

He was loved and cherished by his niece Odessa Richardson who took care of him later in life, leaving behind a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

The family is very grateful for Grane Hospice and Brighton Rehabilitation Center for the love and care of William Richardson.

A private burial will take place at Clinton Cemetery of Wampum. Arrangements have been entrusted to J&J Spratt Funeral Home, 1612 Third Avenue, New Brighton. 

Joseph R. Barna, 92, of Hopewell Township passed away on September 11, 2024, at Good Samaritan Hospice, surrounded by the love of his family. He was born on February 14, 1932, a son of the late Michael J. and Mary (Srafin) Barna.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by a son, Richard Barna, a brother, Michael (Natalie) Barna, Jr. and two sisters, Barbara Ann Barna and Veronica Barna. He is also preceded in death by two brothers-in-law and three sisters-in-law, Henry Klak, Edward (Shirley) Klak, Sophie Andreatta and Dorothy DiNinno.

He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Joann Barna, his three children David (Deborah) Barna, Diane (Tom) Canning, and Jon (Becky) Barna, three grandchildren who he loved dearly, Michael, Alex, and Megan, one brother and two sisters-in-law, Robert (Rita) Barna and Flo Jula and many loving nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Joseph was a member of Mary Queen of Saints Parish, St. Titus Catholic Church and actively contributed to his community as a member of the Lions Club. His dedication extended to volunteering for Meals on Wheels, where he left an impact on many lives. A proud veteran of the U.S. Air Force, Joseph’s legacy of service and love for his family will be remembered and celebrated by all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Good Samaritan Hospice, 146 Neely School Road, Wexford, PA 15090.

A mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, September 21, in St. Titus Church at 10:00 a.m. Arrangements were entrusted to ANTHONY MASTROFRANCESCO FUNERAL HOME INC., 2026 McMinn Street, Aliquippa.

Nicholas Anthony Fazio, 84, passed away on September 10, 2024. He was born on April 2, 1940, in Toro, Italy, to the late Francis and Josephine Fazio.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son Rico, brother-in-law Earl (Bud) Hill, Marge Reynolds, and lifelong friend Jackie Todora.
He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Marion Fazio, son Nicholas Fazio I, and daughter Dawn Fazio.
Nicholas married Marion on August 22, 1964, in Culver City, California. He was trained as a tailor in his hometown by his uncle (Lou Francalancia), and worked his entire career as a tailor, he owned and ran a successful tailor shop in the town of Beaver for 20 years. His business mantra was “A stitch above the rest!” He, his mother, and his brother migrated from his birthplace in Italy to the town of West Aliquippa and graduated from Aliquippa High School, and worked for several premiere clothing retailers including Sak’s 5th Avenue.
He will be sadly missed by his family, many relatives, and cherished friends. In a celebration of his life, the family will have a public viewing at Anthony Mastrofrancesco Funeral Home Inc. on Friday, September 13th, from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Everyone is asked to meet at church for a Mass of Christian burial on Saturday at 10 a.m. in Saint Frances Cabrini Church. A private interment will be held at Mt. Olivet Cemetery.