Category: Obituaries

Twila J. Zendt (1952-2026)

Twila J. Zendt, 74, passed away peacefully at home in Rochester on March 30th, 2026, surrounded by her loved ones after a long and courageous battle with MDS blood cancer. She was born on November 24th, 1952, a daughter of the late Jesse Dilling and Rena Hardman. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband and the love of her life, Lee Snyder Zendt. She is survived by her two daughters, Twila Cox of Darlington and Hope Matos of Rochester, her beloved and “favorite” son-in-law, Jose Matos, her two sisters, Sandy Ambrose and Wanda Wright (Donald Wright), numerous nieces and nephews, nine grandchildren: Holly Altenburg (partner David Bailey), Ciera Springer (Joshua Springer), Randy, Zachary, Dennis, Katie Cox, Tiffany Cox, Joe Cox, and Travis Bratt; as well as seventeen great-grandchildren who brought her immense joy, her beloved cat, Dusty, who was always by her side, and her lifelong friends, Winnie Klink, Sherry Bishop, and Barb McBride, who stood by her through the years.

Twila was a loving mother, grandmother, and Great Grandmother, sister, and friend whose strength and devotion to her family never wavered. She had a deep love for those closest to her and found her greatest happiness in the time she spent with them. She would like to extend a special and heartfelt thank you to her daughter, Hope, for the compassionate and devoted care she provided during Twila’s end-of-life journey. Deep gratitude is also extended to the staff of Pinnacle Hospice: Jenna, Jessica, and Christine, for their kindness, compassion, and support during this difficult time. Her strength, love, and unwavering dedication to her family will never be forgotten. She will be deeply missed and forever held in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.

Friends will be received on Friday, April 3rd from 4 P.M. until the time of a Memorial Service at 6 P.M. in the Huntsman Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Rochester, 502 Adams Street, Rochester, who was in charge of her arrangements. Interment will take place on Saturday, April 4th at 10 A.M. in Crest Haven Memorial Gardens, 6086 OH-7, New Waterford, Ohio.

Claudette “Jane” LaMantia (1943-2026)

Claudette “Jane” LaMantia, 83, of Midland, passed away peacefully on March 30th, 2026. She was born in Midland on February 17th, 1943, a daughter of the late Charles and Agnes Cirelli. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Richard LaMantia. She is survived by her two brothers, Chuck (Ruth) Cirelli of Ohioville and Randy (Bev) Cirelli of Valencia, her sister, Patricia (Rev. Dave) Frank of Erie and her cherished nieces and nephews: Tami (Keith) Burke, Chuck (June) Cirelli, Cristen (Rev. Will) Bridges, David (Kristen) Frank, Steven (Erica) Frank, Jared Cirelli, Caleb (Abbey) Cirelli, Karri (Richie) Hall, and Bill Parsons; along with many great-nieces and nephews and great-great-nieces and nephews who brought her great joy.

Claudette was a lifelong resident of the community she loved. She married Richard LaMantia on October 26th, 1985, and together they built a life rooted in faith. She dedicated 43 years of her life to working at the Beaver County Courthouse in the Data Processing Department before her retirement. She was known for her strong work ethic and kindness. She was a woman of deep faith who was a lifelong member of Christian Assembly Family Church in Ohioville, where she faithfully served as a board member, teacher, church camp counselor, and active participant in church life. Her love for the Lord and her church family was evident in everything she did. The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Beaver Meadows for the excellent care and compassion they provided to Jane during her final year.

Friends will be received on Wednesday, April 8th from 10 a.m. until the time of service at 1 p.m. at Christian Assembly Family Church, 6241 Tuscarawas Road, Ohioville. Pastor Bill Anzevino will officiate. A private interment will follow at Beaver Cemetery, Buffalo Street, Beaver.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Noll Funeral Home, Inc. 333 Third Street, Beaver. Online condolences may be shared at nollfuneral.com.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Christian Assembly Church or Bridges for Life Ministries, 6241 Tuscarawas Road, Industry, PA 15052.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Claudette Jane LaMantia, please visit the flower store of the Noll Funeral Home, Inc. by clicking here.

Holly A. (McGaffick) Gantz (Passed on March 30th, 2026)

Holly A. (McGaffick) Gantz, 72, of Center Township, a mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, aunt and friend passed away on March 30th, 2026, at Heritage Valley, Beaver. She was born in New Brighton, a daughter of the late Robert D. McGaffick and Olive Grace (Boyd) Moore. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her son, Wayne T. Eder, her brother, Robert James McGaffick, and her former fiancé, Raymond Maylone. She is survived by her daughters: Elizabeth (John) Hovan, Theresa Eder and Chris Maderia, and Amanda (Jeremy) Rodgers; as well as eight grandchildren: Elecia McGrantham (Dante), Jake and Joshua Hovan, Jeremy “JD” Rodgers, Jr., Roland Rodgers, Rylee and June Eder, and Carrie (Matt) Stumpf; along with three great-grandchildren, Decklan and Laiten Hawkins and Haven Stumpf. She is also survived by her former husband, Harry “Ted” Eder, her sisters, Linda Hall, Debbie Glass and Carol Armendariz and a brother, David McGaffick, along with many nieces, nephews, her “adopted” children such as her children’s stepsister, Ashley Lewandowski (Tim) and many special friends who will forever hold her close in their hearts.

Holly was raised in Beaver County, where she learned the values of hard work, kindness, and loyalty and was known for her smiling face and always having a positive personality. She worked for a few years at the former Geriatric Center before moving to Tucson, Arizona in 1994. There, she began a new chapter in her life and started her career as a phlebotomist. After returning home, she continued her professional life with the American Red Cross, where she served with care and commitment. Above all, she was a mother to everyone. She welcomed people into her life with open arms and a loving heart, and she was known for having many “adopted” children who found comfort, guidance, and encouragement in her presence.

Family and friends will be received on Thursday, April 2nd 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 Friday, April 3rd at 11 a.m. with her nephew, LeRoy McGee, officiating.

A special thank you is extended for the care and dedication that was received from Heritage Valley, Beaver’s nurses Craig and Doug and the hospital staff from time she entered the ER to the CCU that saw her through to the end.

The family has suggested memorial contributions be made, if desired in Holly’s name to Suicide Prevention or the Beaver County Heart and Cancer Association, 3582 Brodhead Road #201, Monaca, PA 15061.

Cindy Leigh Genevro (1959-2026)

Cindy Leigh Genevro, 66, of Gibsonia, formerly of Emporium, Pennsylvania, passed away following a courageous battle with cancer on March 24th, 2026, at AHN Wexford Hospital. She was born in St. Mary’s, Pennsylvania on October 25th, 1959, a daughter of the late William and Joanne Nellis Austin. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, James “Jim” Genevro, a brother, Timothy Austin, and her good friend, Jerry Moate. She is survived by her daughter, Alayna Genevro, her brothers, Scott and Mike Austin, her sisters, Lisa Augustine: Sue Jordan, Heather Johnson, Ashley Austin, Jennifer Austin, and Julie Smoker; along with numerous nieces and nephews and her beloved mini dachshund, Gucci.

Cindy was a small business owner early on, working at her shop called “Papa Grasshopper”. In her later years, she worked as a lunch room monitor and as a crossing guard. She was also a faithful member of Victory Family Church. Eight years ago, she was diagnosed with Stage IV lung cancer. Her doctors told her there wasn’t much they could do. She did not accept that, displaying tremendous strength, faith and courage, she achieved remission until 2025. Throughout Cindy’s battle, she fought with such determination and grace, inspiring everyone in with whom she came in contact. She touched so many lives with her radiant smile. In spite of the challenges of her illness, she remained a beacon of hope and inspiration to all who knew her. Her selflessness, generosity, and legacy of love knew no bounds and will be cherished by all who had the privilege of sharing in her journey. Her memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew her and her strength will come to inspire generations to come.

Friends will be received during a Celebration of Cindy’s Life on Saturday, April 4th, at 1 p.m. at the VFW located at 427 East 3rd Street, Emporium. Professional arrangements have been entrusted to the Noll Funeral Home, Inc., 333 Third Street, Beaver. Online condolences may be shared at nollfuneral.com.

In lieu of flowers, please bring a dish to pass along and a favorite memory of Cindy.

A special thank you goes out to Randy and Bev Cirelli, Jared Cirelli, and Caleb and Abbey Cirelli for always being a glimpse of Jesus’ love during the hardest season of her life.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Cindy Leigh Genevro, please visit the flower store of the Noll Funeral Home, Inc. by clicking here.

Marion G. Tavernaris (1955-2026)

Marion G. Tavernaris, 70, of Pulaski Township, passed away at home on March 27th, 2026.

She was born in Rochester on June 5th, 1955, a daughter of the late Pete and Joanne (Clark) Tavernaris. She is survived by three children, Steven Smith of New Brighton, Gordon Duchene of New Brighton, and Barrett Duchene of Las Vegas, her grandchildren: Bella Gryck, Lewis, Ian, and Anna Duchene; as well as a brother, John Tavernaris and two sisters, Nikki Tavernaris and Jodie Tavernaris.

Marion was a self-employed butcher throughout Beaver County.

Marion’s family will celebrate her life with a memorial gathering at a later date. Arrangements have been entrusted to the J&J Spratt Funeral Home, Inc., 1612 Third Avenue, New Brighton.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Marion G Tavernaris, please visit the flower store of the J&J Spratt Funeral Home, Inc. by clicking here.

John “Jack” R. Porter Jr. (1956-2026)

John “Jack” R. Porter Jr., 70, of Independence Township, passed away on March 28th, 2026, at UPMC Mercy Hospital, with his loving family by his side. He was born in Pittsburgh on February 16th, 1956, the son of the late John R. Porter Sr. and Joan Ekas. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his loving wife, Karen Porter, and his daughter, Rochelle Porter. He is survived by his loving son, John “J.J.” Porter (Gabriella Muoio), his aunt and uncle, Ed and Marie Kohar of Baden, his stepbrother, Brian (Kathy) Hans of Georgetown and his dear friends, Tony Blum, Carolyn Dunne, Valerie Tilson, and Michelle Pietrzak.He was also loved and remembered by the Sisters of Saint Joseph, along with numerous cousins and friends. Jack also had a special love for his pets: Troy, Crosby, Batman, Junior, and Betty Joe, who were truly part of his family.

John was a 1974 graduate of Moon High School, a 1976 graduate of Robert Morris University, and a 1977 graduate of the Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science. He faithfully served his community as a licensed funeral director for over 50 years, including 23 years at Derrick’s Funeral Home and 29 years at the John Syka Funeral Home Inc in Ambridge.

Friends will be received on Wednesday, April 1st from 2–4 P.M. and 6–8 P.M. in the John Syka Funeral Home Inc., 833 Kennedy Drive, Ambridge, who was in charge of his arrangements. Family and friends will also meet on Thursday, April 2nd in the Good Samaritan Catholic Church, 725 Glenwood Avenue, Ambridge, for a Funeral Service at 1:30 P.M. with Father Joe Carr officiating.  Interment will follow at Mt. Olivet Catholic Cemetery, 2186 Brodhead Road, Aliquippa.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the doctors and nurses at UPMC Mercy Hospital and his devoted traveling nurse Lea of Concordia Visiting Nurses. Finally, to all who provided care, comfort, and support during Jacks final journey.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of John “Jack” R. Porter, please visit the floral store of the John Syka Funeral Home, Inc. by clicking here.

Timothy Lee Sinclair (Passed on March 24th, 2026)

Timothy Lee Sinclair, 76, of Monaca, passed away on March 24th, 2026, at Park Center Rehab Center in Boardman, Ohio. He was the beloved son of the late Thomas and Virginia (Unrue) Sinclair. He was also preceded in death by his brother-in-law, Robert “Whitey” Whitehouse, and his nephew, Ronald T. Nichol. He is survived by his devoted girlfriend of 20 years, Pamela Bukta Dereta, and by Pamela’s daughters, Stephanie and Natalie, along with her grandchildren, Ava, Gianna, Cali, and Chase. He is also survived by his sisters, JoAnn (Ron) Nichol and Sue (Ed) Phillips, who shared in a lifetime of family memories, love, and support. He was a cherished uncle to Richard (Liz) Nichol of California, Michael K. Nichol of Florida, Jodi (Brent) Haller of Monaca, and their children Brooke and Payton, Carri (Rob) Gamache of Bedford, New Hampshire and their children: Alexa, Kasey, and Zachary, and Gini (Bob) Baustart; as well as their children Sydney and grandson Madison, and Leighton. He also leaves behind many cousins from the McCoy and Solomon families, along with countless friends and neighbors who will remember him fondly. Tim took great pride in being a loving uncle, and he was known for never forgetting a birthday. His thoughtful tradition of giving lottery tickets to those he loved became one of the many small but meaningful ways he showed he cared.

Timothy graduated from Monaca High School with their Class of 1967 and was proud of his school years and especially enjoyed playing football, and along the way, gained the nickname of “Harry Sinclair.” Following high school, he was drafted into the United States Army during the Vietnam War, where he served honorably and earned a Bronze Star Medal among other awards and recognitions. After returning home from the war, he began working for St. Joe Lead as a pipefitter and plumber, a career he pursued with dedication and skill until his retirement at the age of 65. He was a well-respected member of the Monaca community, and his presence was one that many came to trust and appreciate. He was a lifelong member of the Monaca Turners and enjoyed participating in their golf and bowling leagues. He was also a member of the Rochester Elks and the VFW. He was something of a daredevil on a motorcycle, and he loved stereo equipment, animals, birds, the simple satisfaction of growing tomatoes and playing the daily number just as his dad, Thomas did.

The family will receive friends on Wednesday, April 1st from 3 p.m. until the time of a service at 6 p.m. at SIMPSON FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES, 1119 Washington Avenue, Monaca, who was in charge of his arrangements. Interment will take place later with military honors at the National Cemetery of the Alleghenies, 1158 Morgan Road, Bridgeville.

The family has suggested those wishing to make a memorial contribution in Tim’s memory to please consider the Beaver County Humane Society, 3394 Brodhead Road, Aliquippa, PA 15001.

Paulette “Polly” May (Kaercher) Lander (1944-2026)

Paulette “Polly” May (Kaercher) Lander, 81, of Independence Township, passed away on March 28th, 2026, at AHN West Penn Hospital in Pittsburgh. She was born at that same hospital on October 10th, 1944, a daughter of the late Howard Dustin Kaercher and Anna Mae (Roadman) Kaercher. She married the love of her life, Gerald Boise Lander, on May 9th, 1964. He also preceded her in death. They had three children: Kevin (Denise) Lander of Hookstown, Scott (Deb) Lander of Dover, and Marcy (Keith) Whiteman of Aliquippa. Kids were the apple of Polly’s eye especially her grandchildren: Dustin (Shayla) Lander, Kori Lander, and Dalton Lander, Zack (Tasia) Lander, Madison (Jesse) Tinnell, Kirstin Fink, Nick (Lexi) Fink, Collin Whiteman, Samantha Whiteman and Rob. However, her great grandchildren stole her heart forever: Easton and Enzlo Lander, Asher Lander, and Ellie Fink. She is also survived by her nieces, nephews, cousins, and many fabulous friends. In addition to her parents and her husband, she was preceded in death by her sister, Diana Tibbetts and her in-laws: Benjamin and Irene Lander and Anna Mae, Grace, and Richard Lander. Paulette worked as a dietician at AHN West Penn Hospital. She was a homemaker until taking the position as the Library Aide at Independence Elementary School. She worked full time at Independence as the school secretary. She enjoyed spoiling her teachers, parents, and students. She was also a member of Mt. Olivet Evangelical Presbyterian Church in Aliquippa. She served as Sunday School Superintendent, music leader to the children, Vacation Bible School Director, Sunday School teacher, a member of the choir, and bowled many years on the church league. Polly will be remembered for her loving, generous heart and her competitive nature. She loved playing card games especially Skip-Bo.

Family and friends will be received on Tuesday, March 31st, from 3-7 p.m. in the HUNTSMAN FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATION SERVICES, INC. OF ALIQUIPPA, 2345 Mill Street, Aliquippa, who was in charge of her arrangements. A funeral service will also be held at the Mt. Olivet Evangelical Presbyterian Church, 4128 Route 151, Aliquippa, on Wednesday, April 1st, at 11 a.m. with Rev. Kevin Neal officiating. Interment will be private for the family.

At the family’s request, in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: Mt Olivet EPC Memorial Fund, 4128 Rt 151, Aliquippa, PA 15001. Independence Elementary Library, 103 School Rd., Aliquippa, PA 15001. Mt Pleasant EPC Honduras Scholarship Fund, 846 St Rt18, Aliquippa, PA 15001.

Kathleen “Joyce” Mesko (1939-2026)

Kathleen “Joyce” Mesko, 86, a lifelong resident of Ambridge, passed away on March 26th, 2026. She was born on July 2nd, 1939, the daughter of the late Michael and Rose (Rizzo) Notarianni. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Richard Mesko, her daughter, Linda Mesko and her brother, Carl Notarianni. She is survived by her loving daughters, Lorie (Frank) Jeskey and Amy (Brian) Durbin, her brother, Jim Notarianni and her cherished grandchildren, Luke, Avery, and Eli, who affectionately called her “Nunni.”

Kathleen graduated from Ambridge High School with its Class of 1957. She had a special love for her dogs, especially Rosie and Ritzy. She treasured beach vacations with her family and enjoyed spending time on her porch, chatting with neighbors and passersby.

A visitation will be held on Monday, March 30th, from 3-7 P.M. at Alvarez-Hahn Funeral Services and Cremation LLC, 547 8th Street, Ambridge, who was in charge of her arrangements, and where a Blessing Service will be held at 11 A.M. on Tuesday, March 31st. Interment will follow at Sylvania Hills Memorial Park, 273 PA-68, Rochester.

Matthew Klenk (1971-2026)

Matthew Klenk, 54, of Ambridge, passed away unexpectedly on March 24, 2026.
He was born in Pittsburgh on October 5, 1971, a son of the late Robert and Barbara Bender Klenk.
Matt was a devoted husband, father, brother, pastor, and friend whose life touched countless people.
For the past eleven years, Matthew faithfully served as the Senior Pastor at Calvary Fellowship Community Church in Ambridge. He dedicated 25 years of his life to spreading the good news of Jesus Christ, his Lord and Savior, and was a pillar of strength and compassion within the community.  Matt was an avid golfer.  Beyond his ministry, Matt gave generously of his time through charity work and served as a basketball coach mentoring and inspiring young people both on and off the court.
Matt leaves behind his loving daughter, Isabella Klenk (Josh King) who is preparing to graduate from Duquesne University in May. Bella was the light of Matt’s life, and he was incredibly proud of the strong, compassionate young woman she has become and made sure to do everything he could for her. He also leaves behind a sister Patty (Steve) Rohm, a brother Bob (Frankie) Klenk, and numerous nieces & nephews. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Jennifer Klenk and a sister, Barbara Klenk.
Matt’s impact reaches far beyond his family.  He was deeply loved by friends, church members, and the entire Ambridge community. His kindness, unwavering faith, and servant’s heart left a lasting impression on everyone he encountered.
Friends will be received on Monday from 3-7 P.M. in the Calvary Fellowship Community Church, 300 11th Street, Ambridge.
Family and Friends will then meet on Tuesday at 11 A.M. in the New Hope Community Church, 592 Beaver Road, Ambridge, where a funeral service will be held, with his good friend Pastor Rick Thornhill officiating. Arrangements have been entrusted to the John Syka Funeral Home, Inc., 833 Kennedy Drive, Ambridge.
Interment will follow in Economy Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers the family asks donations be made to the Calvary Fellowship Community Church.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Matthew Klenk, please visit the floral store of the John Syka Funeral Home, Inc. by clicking here.