Katherine A. Leihgeber (1943-2025)

Katherine A. Leihgeber, 82, of New Galilee, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully on August 3rd, 2025, at her lifelong home.

She was born in Big Beaver, Pennsylvania on May 12th, 1943, a daughter of the late Clara and Carl Leihgeber. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her siblings: Carl Edward Leihgeber (Veda), Thelma Phillips (Bill), Emma Sepsie, Lawrence Leihgeber; as well as her great-niece, Ashlee Leihgeber. She is survived by her nephews, Carl Allen Leihgeber (Marlana) of New Galilee, Bill Phillips (Jody) of New Galilee and George Sepsie of New Castle, her nieces, Michele Sheridan (Bob) of Pittsburgh, Cindy Musquire, Kim Webb (Bruce) of New Galilee and Marie Sepsie of Kansas; as well as many great nieces and nephews.

Katherine was known for her faith and dedicated work at Providence Health Care (Providence Health and Rehabilitation Center) of Beaver Falls. She spent her life as a loyal lamb to her Lord, a devotee of the Christian House Baptist Church (Chapel) of Aliquippa, and was very close with her dog Scotty. She loved crocheting in the sunshine on her porch.

Katherine will be remembered for her fierce personality, her quiet strength through hard times and the love she shared with those around her. Her recent fight with dementia and other health conditions is now finally at an end, with Marlana holding her hand, in restful peace.

Family and friends will be received Friday, August 8th at 10 A.M. until the time of service at 12 noon in the GABAUER-LUTTON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, Inc., 117 Blackhawk Road Beaver Falls, who was in charge of her arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Beaver County Humane Society, 3394 Brodhead Road, Aliquippa, PA 15001 or simply asks that you hold her in your thoughts.

Carl “Dio” Dioguardi, Jr. (1947-2025)

Carl “Dio” Dioguardi, Jr., 77, of Summit Township in Erie, Pennsylvania, formerly of Rochester and Beaver Falls, passed away on July 30th, 2025, at his home surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Rochester on October 24th, 1947, the son of the late Carlo Sr. and Emma Ottaviani Dioguardi. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister and brother-in-law, Anna and Bob Primo, a brother-in-law, R. D. Smith, his mother-in-law and father-in-law, Willa Smith and Jack Manypenny and a father-in-law, Forrest Smith. He is survived by his wife of forty-nine years, Linda S. (Smith) Dioguardi, one daughter and son-in-law, Jeannene L. and Jason Willow, of Fairview, Pennsylvania, two granddaughters, Emma and Avery Willow, one sister, Josephine C. Smith, of Rochester, two nieces, Sherri Wilks and her husband Todd, of Rochester Township and Renee Herstine and her husband Bruce, of Vanport, a nephew, Robbie Smith and his wife Paula of Rochester Township, his sister-in-law, Kathy and Tom Hall, as well as four great-nephews and two great nieces. Carl was a retired supervisor with Rome Metals in Rochester and a member of St. Cecilia Roman Catholic Church of Rochester and Our Lady of the Valley Parish. He was a 1965 graduate of Rochester High School and was a lifelong member of the Rochester B.P.O.E. Lodge 283. He also appeared on The American Band Stand in the 60’s with Dick Clark. Friends will be received on Monday, August 4th, from 3 p.m. until 7 p.m. at the William Murphy Funeral Home Inc., 349 Adams Street, Rochester, who was in charge of his arrangements. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, August 5th, at 10 a.m., in St. Cecilia Roman Catholic Church, 632 Virginia Avenue, Rochester. Interment will follow in Beaver Cemetery. The family wishes memorial contributions be made to Pancreatic Cancer Research at Lustgarten.org, or the https://eriecancerwellness.org/. The family would like to thank the family hospice of Erie for the care and comfort given to Carl.

Kelli Lynn Umstead (1974-2025)

Kelli Lynn Umstead, 51, of New Brighton, passed away on July 26th, 2025 at UPMC Shadyside Hospital of Pittsburgh.

She was born on April 5th, 1974, the daughter of the late Jordan and Linda (Stephenson) Pellis. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a grandson, Thoren “Thor” Griffin whom she loved dearly. She is survived by her significant other of over sixteen years, AJ Humphrey, her daughters, Elsa (Jonathan) Griffin and Faith Umstead and her dog, Merle Chiggens, her cat, Margaret Rose, her grandchildren, Ailey Griffin and Harlan Griffin, her brother, Chad Pellis, along with nieces, nephews, and many friends.

Kelli was a dedicated mother and grandmother. She enjoyed baking with her grandchildren, chasing them around her house and playing with them daily as she lived nextdoor to them and loved every minute of it. She was an avid reader and was able to craft anything she set her mind on, like painting beautiful Christmas villages, making stunning floral arrangements and crocheting the most gorgeous blankets for her family and friends. She loved art, music and science. She had a wealth of knowledge and experience. She was the kind of person that if you had a question, you came to her for the answer.

Kelli was an amazing cook. She had a recipe for everything and enjoyed hosting Sunday dinners for her family, trying out new dishes and recipes from all around the world and making it her own. She was someone who loved animals deeply, taking care of all of her backyard friends and any animals that needed help she would care for.

She enjoyed gardening and planting the most beautiful flowers and crops. Her green thumb couldn’t be beat.

Kelli’s heart was that of gold and someone that made everyone feel special. She loved the holidays, birthdays, celebrating even the smallest things in the name of love, joy and happiness. She went above and beyond.

Kelli was a strong woman. She worked at the Pierce County Sheriff’s Department in Tacoma, Washignton for many years. She overcame every hurdle in her way. The strength she had throughout the years is an inspiration and a true testimony on resilience and determination. She will truly be missed as she was the glue that held her family together.

In accordance with Kelli’s wishes, she will be cremated no services are being held. A celebration of her life will be held at a later date. Arrangments have been entrusted to the branch of Gabauer Funeral Homes.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the family through the link provided, https://gofund.me/0f2eca5a.

Clifford (Skip) J. Owens, Sr. (1933-2025)

Clifford (Skip) J. Owens, Sr., 92, of East Liverpool, Ohio, passed away on August 1st, 2025, in CrossRoads of Beaver Creek in East Liverpool. He was born in Koppel on January 8th, 1933, the son of the late William H. and Grace A. (Law) Owens, Jr.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 69 years, Rosetta (DeNome) Owens and his sister, Gail A. Malmquist. He is survived by his children, Susan (Ralph) Winters and Clifford (Susan) Owens Jr., his grandchildren: Stephen (Aenoy) Safran, Lori (Chad) Browning, Zachary (John) Owens, Cole (Kelly Hartwick) Winters, and Molly (Cody) Suehr; as well as his great-grandchildren: Arthur Safran, Logan Safran, Ethan Browning, Ayla Browning, and Mason Suehr.

Clifford enlisted in the US Navy in 1953 and served for 4 years as a Radio Operator during the Korean War. He was a member of the Enon Valley Masonic Lodge #411 as well as the Moose’s Club in Leesburg, Florida. He worked as a steel mill worker and truck driver in addition to many other hats throughout his early working years that included a West Mayfield police officer and Gulf Gas station owner. In 1987, he and his beloved wife Rosie relocated to Wildwood, Florida, where they would spend the next 38 years. He made the most of his retirement on the golf course and worked for several years as a Certified Master Club Builder in a pro shop. He spent countless hours in his woodworking shop with his pipe, carefully handcrafting custom woodworking pieces to sell at the local flea market and to bestow on his family. Every grandchild received a handcrafted riding hobby horse. He could make just about anything, but he was sure to make you laugh with his quiet, off the cuff remarks.

After nearly 40 years away, Skip returned home for the final year and a half of his life to be surrounded by his loving family. Even at 92, he could still be found riding the golf course with his grandson. These memories made with him will be cherished greatly.

In accordacne with Clifford’s wishes, there will be no public visitation. A combined memorial service for Clifford and Rosetta will be held at Sylvania Hills Memorial Gardens of Rochester, 273, PA-68, Rochester where interment will take place. The family will announce the date in the coming week.

All arrangements were entrusted to the GABAUER-LUTTON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, Inc., 117 Blackhawk Road Beaver Falls, who was honored to care for Clifford and his family.

Harriet C. Andrews (1933-2025)

Harriet C. Andrews, 91, of New Brighton, passed away on July 31st, 2025, at Good Samaritan Hospice House of Wexford.

She was born in Wilkinsburg, Pennsylvania on December 22nd, 1933, the daughter of the late Harry B. and Catherine Hoffman. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Richard B. Andrews, a son Eric “Buzz” Andrews. Harriet is survived by a daughter, Amy S. Andrews of New Brighton, two grandsons, David M. Zilk Jr. and Richard J. Zilk, along with her nieces, nephews, cousins and their families. Harriet graduated from Wilkinsburg High School in 1951 and continued her education at Grove City College, earning her degree in 1956. She went on to teach business classes at New Brighton High School, where she influenced generations of students with her passion for education and dedication.Harriet retired from West-Aircomm Federal Credit Union in Beaver, PA. Even in retirement, her commitment to her community never waned. She volunteered at the New Brighton Public Library for over 30 years, becoming a familiar and beloved presence to patrons and staff alike.  Harriet’s life was marked by service, faith, and quiet strength. Her contributions to education, community, and church will be remembered fondly by all who knew her.  She was a member of First Presbyterian Church, New Brighton.

Friends and family will be received Saturday, August 2nd, from 9 a.m. until the time of service at 11 a.m. in J&J Spratt Funeral Home, 1612 Third Ave, New Brighton, who was in charge of her arrangements. Pastor Gary Hilton will officiate.

Private interment will follow in Grove Cemetery, New Brighton, where she will be laid to rest beside her husband, Richard B. Andrews.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her name to First Presbyterian Church, 1199 Third Avenue, New Brighton, PA 15066 of the New Brighton Public Library.

Michael “Barney” Oldfield (1946-2025)

Michael “Barney” Oldfield, 79, of Beaver, passed away on June 23rd, 2025, at Heritage Valley Hospital in Beaver after a six-year battle with cancer.

He was born in Santa Rosa, California on January 30th, 1946, a son of Bryan Oldfield and Frances Faden Oldfield. He is survived by his wife, Lynette Schmidt, his sons, Michael (Danielle) Oldfield, Paul (Tanya) Oldfield, Kevin (Stephanie) Oldfield, his daughter, Deanne Oldfield Hoppe, his grandchildren: Emily Oldfield, Alexander Hoppe, Mason Hoppe, Jasmine Hoppe, Milo Oldfield, and Weston Oldfield, his brother, Bruce Oldfield, his sister, Sharon Graham; along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, and good friends.

Michael grew up in rural Santa Rosa in Sonoma County, California. As a child, he participated in 4H, a youth development organization, winning a blue ribbon for the prize bull he raised. After high school, he applied and was accepted into the California Highway patrol Academy where he graduated top in his class on the written exam, not as well on the driving test. After it was discovered that he was the grandnephew of Barney Oldfield, the famous race car driver, he was playfully given the nickname “Barney” which remained thereafter. Working as an officer in San Francisco, the shy young man soon learned the communication skills he needed to deal with the many situations he encountered. Later, with a lot of stories to tell, he shared only the funny or bizarre to whom ever would listen. Being a very good storyteller, there was always a willing listener. After 10 years of service in CHP, Mike moved to Palm Springs, California where he became a hotel resort manager specializing in group meetings which allowed him to meet interesting, even famous people and gather more stories. The most interesting were his coworkers, where friendship bonds were forged forever and where he met his future wife, Lynette. In a desire to get back to his “roots” he enrolled in College of the Desert’s program for Turf Grass Management and Horticulture. He worked and played multiple golf courses, even participating in group tournaments. Mike especially enjoyed designing and creating beautiful desert landscape gardens for clients in Palm Springs In the mid-90s, he and his wife relocated to Pittsburgh, where she was from. He began a career in the airline industry as a ramp manager for PSA Airlines in Pittsburgh and Piedmont Airlines in Philadelphia, which once again forged friendships he cherished.

Michael was a beloved husband, father, brother, mentor and friend who did and will inspire us to live and share our life story like he shared his.

A celebration of his life will be announced in the near future. A favorite garden plaque of Michael’s has an exert from the poem “God’s Garden” by Dorothy Frances Gurney, which is:

The kiss of the sun for pardon
The song of the birds for mirth
One is nearer God’s heart in a garden
Than anywhere else on earth

Professional Arrangements were entrusted to the Noll Funeral Home Inc., 333 Third Street, Beaver, PA 15009. Online condolences may be shared at www.nollfuneral.com.

The family would like to thank the doctors, nurses, and aides who helped him in this battle.

Anthony J. D’Eramo (1945-2025)

Anthony J. D’Eramo, 80, of Aliquippa, passed away peacefully on July 29th, 2025. He was born in New Brighton on February 8th, 1945, a son of the late Vincent D’Eramo and Bertha (Zupi) D’Eramo.
Anthony was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Margaret D’Eramo. He was the proud father of Andrea Evans (Tracy) and Kimberly Peterson (Paul), and a cherished grandfather to Anastasia Mellovich and great-grandfather to Gabriella Ulmer, both of whom brought immense joy to his life. In addition to his wife, daughters, and grandchildren, Anthony is survived by his siblings: David D’Eramo, Vince D’Eramo, and Angela Shetter, and brother-in-law Victor Duran. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
Anthony was a man of deep faith and a devout Catholic who found inspiration and strength through his patron, St. Anthony. His faith was a guiding force throughout his life. He was a dedicated and hardworking businessman who was the owner of D’Eramo’s Heating and A/C, LLC, which faithfully served the residents of Beaver and Allegheny Counties for over 50 years. His commitment to his customers and his community was unwavering.
Anthony treasured the simple joys in life: spending time with his family, sharing laughs with his lifelong high school friends whom he considered extended family, and creating lasting memories with those he loved most.
A funeral mass for Anthony will be held on Monday, August 4th at 11:00 a.m. at St. Titus Church, 952 Franklin Avenue, Aliquippa. Arrangements have been entrusted to the ANTHONY MASTROFRANCESCO FUNERAL HOME INC., 2026 McMinn Street, Aliquippa.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, a cause close to Anthony’s heart. Anthony’s legacy of love, devotion, and service will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him.

Homer Elsie Summy (1933-2025)

Homer Elsie Summy, 92, passed away peacefully on July 30th, 2025, surrounded by the love and comfort of his family. He was born in Mount Pleasant, Pennsylvania on February 6th, 1933, a son of the late Charles and Mable Summy. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by 3 brothers and 2 sisters. He is survived by his loving wife, Shelley (Blair) Summy, who was his companion and partner in all things. Together, they built a home filled with love and laughter. He is also survived by his three children: Sherry (Joe) Hatala, Douglas Summy, and Carri (Dave) Drake. His pride in his family extended to his grandchildren: Jason, Laura, Blair, Desten, Cameron, and Paige. His two great-grandchildren, Olivia and Jaxon brought laughter and joy lit up his later years. He is also survived by a sister, a brother, and a host of nieces and nephews, each of whom held a special place in his heart. Homer was a proud veteran of the United States Army and his life was shaped by service, dedication and a deep commitment to family and community. His dedicated much of his working life to the General Motors Corporation. After he retired from there, he spent over twenty years working for the Beaver County Conservation District as a Field Assistant. Homer and his crew spent many hours making sure the Beaver County Maple Syrup and Music Festival was a huge success.
Outside of his working career, he had a great passion for his Pittsburgh Steelers and the Pittsburgh Pirates, labradors and the outdoors; specifically gardening, hunting, and fishing. He was an avid gardener who was famous for his “dandy” tomatoes that were rich in color and flavor. His home-grown tomatoes won many prizes at the Hookstown fair and were a shoppers favorite at the local fruit market. Being outdoors allowed him to spend precious time with family and friends, two things he cherished more than anything. He had a group of fond friends that were part of the Green Card Club. He was also a devoted member of Ohio United Presbyterian Church of Aliquippa.
Friends and family will be received for a visitation on Friday, August 1st at 1 p.m. until 3:30 p.m. with a brief service immediately following at the ANTHONY MASTROFRANCESCO FUNERAL HOME INC. 2026 McMinn Street, Aliquippa, who was in charge of his arrangements.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that friends make a donation to their local humane society.

Richard (Rick) Frederick Zinsser, Jr. (1947-2025)

Richard (Rick) Frederick Zinsser Jr., 77, a lifelong resident of Southwestern Pennsylvania, passed away in his home on July 30th, 2025. He was born in Pittsburgh on December 28th, 1947, a son of the late Richard and Catherine (Kirner) Zinsser Sr. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Wayne Zinsser, his sister, Kathleen Zinsser, as well as his stepson, Mark Davidson. In addition to his more than two dozen grandchildren and great-grandchildren, he is survived by his wife, Carol (Wood) Zinsser of New Brighton, two daughters, Heidi (Shawn) O’Connor and Miami Heather (Jim) Schmidt, Roswell, four stepchildren: Scott (Kathy) Davidson, Aliene (Don) Mittner, Kelly (Norman) Hainer, Joe (Dana) Tabay; as well as two sisters, Debbie (Paul) Roxer of Virginia Beach and Beth (Allen) Crivelli of Pittsburgh and several nieces and nephews and their families.

Richard served his country in the United States Army. Upon returning home, he worked for various tree service companies, including Asplundh and Lewis, as a member of the IBEW.

He moved to New Brighton in the early 1990s and met the love of his life, Carol. They got engaged after just six weeks of dating and formed a union that lasted through 30 years of marriage as well as many episodes of “Jeopardy” and “Wheel of Fortune”.

He was a man of few words, but his actions had a lasting impact on anyone who met him. He was the past president and current treasurer of the New Brighton Lions Club. He also served as Eucharistic Minister for Our Lady of the Valley Parish and was the recipient of the Fr. Marcus O’Brien Service Award from Catholic Charities Diocese of Pittsburgh in 2015.

Of the many titles he’d held in life, the one he cherished most was Pap to his many grandchildren. Nick-named “The Baby Whisperer”, even the most upset, colicky babies would immediately find peace and fall asleep in his arms.

Friends will be welcomed Sunday, August 3rd, from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m., at the J&J Spratt Funeral Home, 1612 3rd Ave, New Brighton, who was in charge of his arrangements.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, August 4th at 11 a.m., at Holy Family Church, 521 7th Avenue, New Brighton, with Fr Tom Kredel and Fr Howard Campbell co-officiating.

Military honors and burial will follow at the National Cemetery of the Alleghenies, 1158 Morgan Road, Bridgeville.

In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made to the New Brighton Lions Club, 720 3rd Ave, New Brighton, PA 15066.

Ruth Ann (Bohon) Schroeder (Passed on July 28th, 2025)

Ruth Ann (Bohon) Schroeder, 75, of Catlettsburg, Kentucky, a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully at her daughter’s residence on July 28th, 2025 in Rochester following an extended illness. She was raised in Monaca and her life was a testament to her unwavering love, dedication to family and her deeply held values.

Ruth met the love of her life, David L. Schroeder, during her high school years. Their love story culminated in a beautiful marriage on November 8th, 1968, while David was serving in the U.S. Air Force. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and lasting memories. Ruth lovingly created a warm home, her backyard was filled with flowers, birdsong, and the birds knew the feeders were always full.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Clarence and Vivian (Liller) Bohon, and her brothers, Chris, James, and Ralph Bohon, as well as her in-laws, Jeremiah and Betty Schroeder, and a beloved grandson, Michael Juratovic. She is survived by her loving husband, David L. Schroeder and their three children, David Schroeder, Jr. of Kentucky, Jennifer Schroeder (Phil) DeLuca of Rochester, and Christina Schroeder (Derek) Hensley of Kentucky. Her joy was multiplied by her grandchildren: Kimberly (Simeon) Brace, Isabella Grace Birch, Andrew David Birch, Logan Hensley, Lauren Hensley, Kadence Schroeder Belic and Jonathan Schroeder; as well as her great-grandchildren, Luke and Asher Brace. Above all, she was a proud and devoted Grannie and had a hand in raising all of her grandchildren. Summers in Kentucky will be embedded in their hearts forever.

She is also survived by her sisters, Jane (Paul) Smith, Rita (Bruce) Megill and Sue (Fred) Porebski, along with several nieces and nephews, who will remember her warmth and wisdom.

After she graduated from Monaca High School and married David, the couple settled in Rochester, where they created a loving home for their children and ensured that her children attended Sunday School at Grace Lutheran Church of Rochester. She and her mother-in-law were active members of a local homemakers’ club, where they honed their skills in ceramics, sewing and crocheting.

She also enjoyed gardening, picnics and shopping. She also never missed a trip to the casino.

Children learn what they live and through her, so many have learned the beauty of nature, the value of hard work, strength, courage and loyalty.

The family will receive friends on Friday, August 1st from 2-4 p.m. and 6- 8 p.m. at SIMPSON FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES, 1119 Washington Avenue, Monaca, who was in charge of her arrangements and where services will be held on Saturday, August 2nd at 11 a.m. Reverend Gregory Clagg, the pastor of Grace Lutheran Church, will officiate. Interment will follow in Beaver Cemetery.

The family has suggested memorial contributions be made in Ruth’s memory if desired to either St Jude Research Hospital, Tunnels 2 Towers, or a local women’s shelter. The family wishes to extend a note of gratitude to Good Samaritan Hospice and a special thanks to “Special Agent Ashley” Jones.