Category: Obituaries

George Richard Bowser (1939-2026)

George Richard Bowser, 86, a devoted man of faith, family, and hard work, passed away on January 31st, 2026, surrounded by love and peace, in the presence of his family.

He was born on October 19th, 1939 and was a proud graduate of Freeport Area High School,  Class of 1957. He continued his education at Penn State University, where he completed one semester before beginning a lifelong career built on dedication, integrity, and skill.

George was a proud member of IBEW Local 712 and served faithfully as a Journeyman Electrician for more than 77 years. His remarkable career included 11 years with Prothero Electric Company, followed by 11 years as an Area Foreman at the BV2 Nuclear Power Station. He later worked with multiple companies in New Jersey, earning respect wherever he served. After his formal career, George continued to pursue his interests and obtained his real estate license.

Above all, George was a man who loved the Lord. His faith guided his life, shaped his character, and gave him strength through every season. He lived with humility, kindness, and a servant’s heart.

He was preceded in death by his parents, George Rankin and (Mayme) Domenica (Bartony) Bowser, his sisters, Carol Rowan (Claire) and Darlene Monte (Steve), his former wife, Lue Verne (Romigh) Bowser, his daughter-in-law, Mischelle Bowser and his grandson, Anthony Kramer.

He is survived by his children: Scott Bowser (Penny), Shawn Bowser (Shawn Renee), Shannon Jacobyansky (Bill), Shane Bowser (Leslie) and by his devoted companion, Kelly Nealis. He was a proud and devoted grandfather to: Andrew Bowser (Hillary), Greg Bowser (Lauren), Elijah Bowser (Jocelyn), Christiana (Bowser) Glazar (David), Shanya Cavalier (Tony), Andrew Bowser (Brother James of Jesus Crucified), Angela Bowser (Jake), Ashton Bowser (Tresa), Alexander Bowser, Augustine Bowser, Aidan Bowser, Mary Audrey Bowser, Adrienne Bowser, Abraham Jacobyansky (Anaruth), Ruth Jacobyansky, and Samuel Jacobyansky. He is also lovingly remembered by his 13 great-grandchildren.

George was a loving father, grandfather, and friend whose wisdom, generosity, and steady presence will be deeply missed. His life reflected perseverance, faithfulness, and love for both God and family.

Friends will be received on Thursday, February 5th, from 2-4 P.M. and 6-8 P.M. in the GABAUER-TODD FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES (BRANCH), 340 Third Street, Beaver, who was in charge of his arrangements, and where a funeral service will be held on Friday, February 6th at 10 A.M. Friends will be received an hour prior to services at 9 a.m. Pastor Bill Anzevino will officiate.

Private interment will take place at Beaver Cemetery, Buffalo Street, Beaver.

Shirley J. (Franken) Oakes (Passed on January 28th, 2026)

Shirley J. (Franken) Oakes, 91 formerly of Conway, passed away peacefully on January 28, 2026, at her daughter’s home surrounded by her loving family. She was born in Madison, Wisconsin, a daughter of the late Dr. Norman and Jane Franken. She was also preceded by her beloved husband of 40 years, Robert W. Oakes, Sr., her stepson, Robert Oakes, Jr., her daughter-in-law, Lori (McCracken) Liberati and her brother, Henry Franken. Her memory will be kept alive by her surviving family: her brother, Thomas (Judy) Franken of Arkansas, her sister-in-law, Yvonne Franken of Colorado, her daughter, Jane Strano (Leonard Cardinale) of Monaca, her sons, Robert (Denise Schweinsberg) Liberati of Potter Township and Joseph Liberati of Monaca and her daughter-in-law, Brenda Halstead. Her legacy extends to her grandchildren: Elizabeth Strano, Michael (Heather) Strano, Shawn (Julie) Fossett, Sarah Liberati, Jonathon (Melinda) Liberati, and Christopher (Nicole) Liberati; as well as her great-grandchildren: Ella Risch, Domanic and Maci Strano, and James, Wesson, Emmerson, and Avi Liberati.

Shirley’s professional life was marked by her compassionate service as a registered nurse at D.T. Watson, where she retired after years of dedicated care to her patients. She was a devoted member of the former Our Lady of Peace Catholic Church, now part of the Good Samaritan Parish in Ambridge.

As we bid farewell to Shirley J (Franken) Oakes, we celebrate a life beautifully lived—a life filled with love, service, and faith.

The family wishes to thank the outstanding care and compassion Shirley received from Cami, Chelsea, Kelly and Renee from Advanced Hospice.

In accordance with Shirley’s wishes, there will be no services. Arrangements have been entrusted to Simpson Funeral and Cremation Services, 1116 Washington Avenue, Monaca.

John A. Rizzo (1941-2026)

John A. Rizzo, 84, passed away on February 1st, 2026. He was born on May 22nd, 1941, a son of the late Lewis and Georgia Rizzo. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his daughter, Erica Anne and his brother, Francis Rizzo. He is survived by his wife, Ingrid Miller Rizzo, hs son, Michael (Stacey) Rizzo and his sister-in-law, Donna Rizzo. John was a Beaver Falls High School graduate in the class of 1959. He went on to study at Geneva College and graduated with a B.S.B.A. in Accounting in 1963. He also spent years working as the Chief Financial Officer for the Community College of Beaver County. In accordance with John’s wishes, there will be no public viewing and his burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Patterson Township Fire Department, 319 Darlington Road, Beaver Falls, PA 15010.

Catherine L. Budacki (Passed on January 31st, 2026)

Catherine L. Budacki, 93, passed away peacefully on January 31st, 2026, at Concordia Villa St. Joseph in Baden, her home for the last five years. Catherine spent her formative years in Monaca, where she was embraced by the love of her parents, the late John and Barbara (Jakovic) Budacki. She grew up alongside her siblings, sharing an unbreakable bond that only siblings understand. Her brothers John and Walter Budacki, a half brother, William Budacki and her sisters, Mary Budacki, Ann Kochanowski, and Diane McPherson have preceded her in death. She is survived by her beloved sister, Rosemary Budacki, along with several devoted nieces and nephews. She dedicated many years of her life as a medical secretary, working diligently alongside Dr. Pantalone and Dr. Conte. She was a long-standing member of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Monaca, now part of Mary, Queen of Saints Parish. As we bid farewell to Catherine L. Budacki, we are reminded of the impact one life can have on so many. Friends will be received on Wednesday, February 4th from 11 a.m. until the time of a service at 1 p.m. at SIMPSON FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES, 1119 Washington Avenue, Monaca, who was in charge of her arrangements, where the blessing service will be held. Interment will follow in the parish cemetery of Simpson Funeral and Cremation Services.

Brandon Lee Cumberledge (Passed on January 30th, 2026)

Brandon Lee Cumberledge, 30, of Rochester, a cherished son, devoted father, grandson, beloved brother, nephew, and a friend to many, passed away on January 30th, 2026. He was born in Beaver, Pennsylvania and his life was cut short after a courageous battle with mental illness.

Brandon was a beloved son of Angel Marie Yoho and Rick L Cumberledge. He was a loving brother to Chris (Theresa) Yoho, Erick, and Amanda Cumberledge. His presence will be deeply missed by his children, Aubreigh, Brantley, and Haisley, along with their mother, Ashleigh Rice. His children were the center of his universe. Their memories of their father will be cherished and kept alive through the stories and love he left behind. He was the adored grandson of William and June Yoho, Robert (Sue) Cumberledge, and Priscilla Ruth. His uncles, William “JR” Yoho Jr. (Jessica Monick), Robert Cumberledge, Jr., Jimmy Ruth, and Robert Cumberledge, and his aunt, Lisa Cumberledge, will hold dear the time spent with him. His great uncle and aunt George (Erma) Yoho, godfather George Yoho Jr. along with his faithful canine companion, Shadow, were significant figures in his life, along with numerous cousins. He was preceded in death by his maternal grandmother, Dorothy Yoho, and paternal grandfather, James Ruth, who have now welcomed him with open arms.

Brandon’s formative years were spent at Raccoon and Independence Elementary School and later at Hopewell Junior and Senior High School, where he excelled as a member of the Hopewell wrestling team winning a state championship and played with heart on the Red Devil Football Team. As an adult, he was employed at the Rochester Giant Eagle store where he started as a Meat Apprentice and later moved to the deli department, but was widely known throughout the store. In prior years worked at Gold Bond Building Products-Gypsum Board Plant in Aliquippa where he tarped trucks and CLW Delivery where he worked in shipping, receiving, and delivery. He was an outdoorsman at heart who found solace and joy in hunting and fishing. Above all, his life revolved around his three children. Every decision, every sacrifice, and every moment of joy was shared with them.

Friends will be received on Wednesday, February 4th from 4 p.m. until the time of service at 8 p.m. at SIMPSON FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES , 1119 Washington Avenue, Monaca, who was in charge of his arrangements. The Reverend Gregory Clagg, Pastor of Grace Lutheran Church in Rochester will officiate. The family has requested that everyone attending to please wear the color purple or teal to signify suicide awareness.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations given to his parents will be directed toward Brandon’s three children.

To share online condolences, view his video tribute, or get directions, please visit www.simpsonfuneralhome.com.

Harry Richard Lewis, Jr. (1945-2026)

Harry Richard Lewis, Jr., 81, of Beaver County, Independence Township, passed away peacefully on his birthday, January 29th, 2026, at Celebration Villa of Chippewa.

He was born on January 29, 1945 in Pittsburgh, the son of the late Harry Richard Sr., and Carieta (McConnell) Lewis. He is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Elaine (Kradlock) Lewis, his children: Allan (Shelby) Lewis, Robert (Kris) Lewis, Pam (Randy) Hysong, and Shawn Lewis; as well as ght grandchildren: Ashley, Shannon, Wesley, Rachelle, Benjamin, Tabor, Jake, and Katie; along with eleven great-grandchildren, numerous other family members, and friends.

Harry worked for over fifty years for numerous railroad companies, later retiring from Norfolk Southern as an engineer. He was a hardworking man and a strong presence in his family’s lives.  In his free time, he enjoyed traveling to different states to watch his grandchildren race quads.

In accordance with Harry’s wishes, he will be cremated and no services will be held.

The GABAUER-TODD FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES (Branch), 340 Third Street, Beaver, was honored to provide care and guidance to the Lewis family and was the funeral home that was in charge of his arrangements.

Roberta “Tootie” A. Barber (1932-2026)

Roberta “Tootie” A. Barber, 93, of Beaver Falls, passed away on January 31st, 2026 at Beaver Valley Nursing and Rehab.

She was born in Freedom on August 19th, 1932, the daughter of the late Nathaniel Thomas Barnes and Helen (Black) Cerutti. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 48 years, Ernest Barber, Jr. and her daughter, Shirley Ann Ripple. She is survived by her daughter, Helen (Joe) Kovacs, her grandchildren: Duane (Melissa) Stewart III, Patrick Stewart, Joseph Kovacs, and Gerry Lynn (Terry) Hunt; as well as her great-grandchildren: Duane IV, Hadley, Ethan, Jaycie, and Grace; along with one great-great grandchild, Milo.

Roberta loved bingo, going to yard sales, and spending time with boxer dogs. When at home she enjoyed crafting and building jigsaw puzzles. She also collected salt and pepper shakers.

Friends will be received on Tuesday, February 3rd from 2 P.M. until the time of services at 5 P.M. in the GABAUER-LUTTON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, Inc., 117 Blackhawk Road, Beaver Falls, who was in charge of her arrangements.

Interment will take place at Clinton Cemetery, 1171 Old Route 18, Wampum.

Vincent C. “Vinny” Gratteri (1967-2026)

Vincent C. “Vinny” Gratteri, 58, of Chippewa Township, passed away peacefully on January 30th, 2026, in the comfort of his home.

He was born in New Brighton on June 18th, 1967, a son of Carol (Palimino) Gratteri and the late Vincenzo Gratteri. In addition to his mother, he is survived by his siblings, Jeffrey Gratteri, Tracy Zimmerman and Lisa (Brian) Dainton, a sister-in-law, Becky Gratteri, his nieces and nephews: Natalie (Landon) Hall, Alexa (Chris) Kropf, Hanna Gratteri, Vince Gratteri, and Johnny Gratteri; as well as his great niece and nephew, Isla and Cade Kropf, as well as many extended family members and friends. In addition to his father, he was preceded in death by his brother, Marc Gratteri and his brother-in-law, Gerard Zimmerman.

Vincent worked as a chef for the majority of his professional life. He was a member of St. Monica Church of St. Augustine Parish in Beaver Falls and loved his family dearly.  As a proud supporter of all Pittsburgh Sports, he rarely ever missed a game with Sonny, his K-9 companion at his side.

Friends will be received on Tuesday, February 3rd from 3-8 P.M. in the GABAUER-LUTTON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, INC., 117 Blackhawk Road, Beaver Falls, who was in charge of his arrangements.

Departing prayers will be offered in the funeral home on Wednesday, February 4th 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. Fr. John Naugle will serve as celebrant.

Interment will follow in St. Mary’s Cemetery, 2927 Clayton Road, Beaver Falls.

Mary B. DeFarrari (1929-2026)

Mary B. DeFerrari, 96, of Aliquippa, passed away peacefully at home on January 29th, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family.
She was born on April 12th, 1929 and was the daughter of the late Reginald and Margaret Welch. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Joseph DeFerrari, her brother and sister-in-law, Paul and Olive Welch, her brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Albert and Gilda DeFerrari, her niece, June Welch and her son-in-law, Edward Leitao. She is survived by her loving son, Joseph (Cindy) DeFerrari, her daughters: Nancy (Dale VanWormer) DeFerrari, Mary Leitao, Cathy McCurry and Patty DeFerrari, eleven grandchildren, sixteen great-grandchildren, six nieces and one nephew.
Mary was a member of St. Titus Catholic Church in Aliquippa, where she was a member of the Altar and Rosary Society. She worked alongside her husband at Franklin Sporting Goods, where she was often seen helping customers at the candy counter. She was a Boy Scout den mother and classroom volunteer when her children were young. Besides spending time with her family, Mary enjoyed cooking, preparing for holidays, helping friends and neighbors, reading, doing word search, and crocheting. She crocheted many beautiful baby blankets, scarves, and washcloths up until the weeks before her passing.
Mary’s life was touched by the kindness and compassion of Erica McGuire, Rose Sabattini, and the staff of Three Oaks Hospice.
Mary will be missed by her loving family and everyone who was touched by her unconditional love and kindness. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
A visitation will be held on Monday, February 2nd from 3-7 p.m. in the ANTHONY MASTROFRANCESCO FUNERAL HOME INC. 2026 McMinn Street, Aliquippa, who was in charge of her arrangements. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, Febraury 3rd at 10 a.m. in St. Titus Catholic Church, 952 Franklin Avenue, Aliquippa.
Please meet in the church. A private Interment will immediately follow at Woodlawn Cemetery, 450 Penn Avenue, Aliquippa.

 

To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Mary B. DeFerrari please visit the Sympathy Store of the Anthony Mastrofrancesco Funeral Home, Inc. by clicking here.

Patricia Jesky (1939-2026)

Patricia Jesky, 86, of Ambridge, passed away on January 24th, 2026. She was born on November 10th, 1939, the daughter of the late Louis and Mary Jesky. She is survived by her brother, John (Gail) Jesky.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be announced at a later date. Arrangements have been entrusted to Alvarez-Hahn Funeral Services and Cremation, LLC, 547 8th Street, Ambridge.