Category: Obituaries

Lydia J. (Piroli) Palombo (1922-2025)

Lydia J. (Piroli) Palombo, 103, formerly of Aliquippa, passed away peacefully at her home in Southold, New York, on November 7th, 2025. She was born in Aliquippa on August 7th, 1922, a daughter of the late Oreste and Concetta Piroli.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Arthur (Larry) Palombo, her sister, Olga Matakovich and her brothers, William Piroli, Dr. Duilio D. Piroli, and Gino Piroli. She is survived by her two children, Elaine White of Southold, New York, and Joseph Palombo (and his husband, Paul Redmond Jr.) of Atkinson, New Hampshire, her four grandchildren, four great-grandchildren and many loving nieces, nephews and godchildren.
Lydia was a dedicated employee of the Aliquippa School District, retiring as the superintendent’s secretary. She was a member of Mary Queen of Saints Parish, and St. Titus Church in Aliquippa, where she also volunteered and served as an officer of the Confraternity of Christian Mothers. She will be remembered by her loved ones and friends as a genuine and kind lady, and was an inspiration to many for her intelligence, broad cultural interests, accepting nature, and the wonderful friendships and connections she established and nurtured her entire 103 years.
Private Interment will be at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, 2186 Broadhead Road, Aliquippa. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Anthony Mastrofrancesco Funeral Home, Inc., 2026 McMinn Street, Aliquippa.
Lydia was a passionate reader and requested that any donations in her memory be made to the B.F. Jones Memorial Library, 663 Franklin Avenue, Aliquippa, PA 15001. (https://www.beaverlibraries.org/libraries/aliquippa). To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Lydia J. (Piroli) Palombo, please visit the Sympathy Store of the Anthony Mastrofrancesco Funeral Home, Inc. by clicking here.

Carol Ann Tempest (Passed on November 2nd, 2025)

Carol Ann Tempest, 81, of Brighton, Colorado, passed away peacefully on November 2nd, 2025. She was born in Cincinnati, Ohio and was raised in Monaca, Pennsylvania, the daughter of Alberta and Carl Bechtel. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, Carl Bechtel, Jr., and her husband, Harold Masters. She is survived by her son, Ron Tempest, Jr. (Kendra), her stepdaughter, Amy Buchanan, her grandchildren, Travis Buchanan and Brandon Buchanan, her beloved cousins, Nell Rittle (Todd Havekotte), Katy Rittle (Jason Boyd), and Paul Petroski (Cindy) and their children.

Carol married Ron Tempest, Sr., in 1961, and together they began their journey at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California, where their son, Ron Jr. was born. After three years, they returned to Monaca, where Carol built a life rooted in family, friendship, and service. Throughout her career, she worked in various customer service roles, always bringing warmth and kindness to those she encountered. In 2005, she married Harold Masters, and together they shared a love of travel and adventure, especially visiting casinos across the country. Her favorite destinations included Palm Springs, Myrtle Beach, and Punta Cana. She had a passion for gardening, holiday decorating, cooking, gambling and playing cards with her friends. Her home was always filled with laughter, warmth, and the comforting aroma of a home-cooked meal. She adored her rescue dogs, Molly and Sasha, who brought her endless joy and companionship. She was a beautiful and loving mother who always encouraged those around her to live their best lives. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of her family and friends, who will remember her for her generosity, her vibrant spirit, and the joy she brought to every room.

A life celebration will be held on Saturday, December 6th at 1 p.m. at SIMPSON FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES, 1119 Washington Avenue, Monaca, who was in charge of his arrangements. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to the Beaver County Humane Society, 3394 Broadhead Road, Aliquippa, PA 15001 in honor of Carol’s love for animals.

Jessica “Jessie” M. Condon (1995-2025)

Jessica “Jessie” M. Condon, 30, passed away on November 4th, 2025 at Heritage Valley Beaver. She was born in Pittsburgh on February 23rd, 1995, a daughter of Jennifer and Jon Richardson. In addition to her parents, she is survived by her sister, Jane Moore, her maternal grandparents, Diane and Gary Condon, her niece, Gretchen Matthews, Amy and Dave Kaczorowski and Michele Condon; as well as her cousins: Nick, Justin, Chelsea, Rowan, Riley, Tyler, Ella and Connor; along with her McGuire Memorial family. She was preceded in death by her uncle, Gary.

Jessie was known by all who loved her as a bright light, very strong, fearless, and full of life. She had a warrior’s spirit and faced every challenge with courage and determination. She had a gift for making friends, and her warm, happy personality drew people in instantly. Jessie loved to laugh and make others laugh. Her spunky sense of humor and signature eye roll were just a few of the things that made her so unforgettable. To know her was to know true joy, kindness, and strength. Her beautiful energy will live on in the hearts of those who loved her most.

A memorial visitation will be held on Friday, November 21st, from 12 noon until the time of memorial mass at 1 p.m. at McGuire Memorial, 2119 Mercer Road, New Brighton. Arrangements have been entrusted to the J&J Spratt Funeral Home, 1612 Third Avenue, New Brighton.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to McGuire Memorial, 2119 Mercer Road, New Brighton, PA 15066.

Patricia Ann (Garrett) Katekovich (1939-2025)

Patricia Ann (Garrett) Katekovich, 86, of New Sewickley Township, passed away peacefully in her home on November 6th, 2025.

She was born on January 6th, 1939, a daughter of the late Anna Lubert and Joseph Pszybyszewski. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved husband, John P. Katekovich, four brothers: Ted Garrett, Chester Garrett, Tom Garrett, Joe “Butch” Garrett and one sister, Rose McCoy. She is survived by her sons, John S. (Joanne) Katekovich and Daniel (Connie) Katekovich, her daughters, Beth (Bob) Derflinger, Anna M. (Bill) Paulson and Rosie Katekovich, her sister, Alicia Shirley Sliwoski, her grandchildren: Jesse Derflinger, Emily Derflinger, Amanda Paulson, Rachel Katekovich, Danny Katekovich and James Katekovich, her great-grandchildren, Kruz, Alyssa, Caleb and Christopher, and a great-great grandchild, Kade.

Patricia dedicated her life to her family, her faith, and her community. She was a devoted homemaker who filled her home with warmth, laughter, and creativity. She was known for her remarkable talents: an accomplished seamstress, cake decorator, and crocheter, she poured love and artistry into everything she made. Her hands were rarely still, whether she was crafting beautiful Ukrainian Easter eggs, stitching something special for a loved one, or preparing a homemade meal to share. Her generosity was boundless. Patricia had a gift for making everyone feel at home; no one ever left her house empty-handed, as she delighted in sending guests off with food, treats, or small tokens of her care. She was a faithful servant of her church, Patricia volunteered tirelessly over the years, teaching Sunday School, singing in the choir, and hosting the Good News Club in her home to share God’s Word with neighborhood children. She touched countless lives through her kindness, humor, and deep compassion for others.

Patricia’s love of reading and learning stayed with her throughout her life, and her joyful, giving spirit left an indelible mark on all who knew her. She was truly a people person, someone who loved deeply, gave freely, and made the world brighter through her presence.

A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, November 12th, at 11 a.m. at Pathway Church (Chippewa), 239 Braun Rd, Beaver Falls. Arrangements have been entrusted to the J&J Spratt Funeral Home, 1612 Third Avenue, New Brighton.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Patricia’s name may be made to the New Brighton Public Library, 1021 3rd Ave, New Brighton, PA, 15066 or the Pathway Church (Chippewa), 239 Braun Rd, Beaver Falls, PA, 15010.

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

Ashley K. Kunich (1983-2025)

Ashley K. Kunich, 42, of Baden, passed away at home on November 7th, 2025. She was born on January 1st, 1983, a daughter of George Kunich and Christine Cox. In addition to her parents, she is survived by her loving husband and best friend of 17 years, Rick Palak, her stepfather, Ritchie Cox, her grandmother, Donna Jean Morgan, her nephew, Landon Gregory and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. She was preceded in death by her sister, Lindsey (Kunich) Gregory.

Ashley was a graduate of Freedom High School and went on to attend the Community College of Beaver County. She worked side by side with her husband at Independent Milling and Paving. She will be remembered for her deep love of family and will be dearly missed by all who knew her.

Services for Ashley are private. Arrangements have been entrusted to Alvarez Hahn Funeral Services and Cremation, LLC, 547 8th Street, Ambridge.

Rebecca “Becky” Ann Bianculli (1960-2025)

Rebecca “Becky” Ann Bianculli, 65, of New Galilee, passed away on November 4th, 2025 at her residence.

She was born in Beaver Falls on April 2nd, 1960, a daughter of Mary K. Liotto and the late Earl D. Redmond. In addition to her father, she was preceded in death by her sister, Lorie D. Redmond. In addition to her mother, she is survived by her children, Jill (Joseph) Picarello, Tracy Swerbenski and Michael Bianculli, her seven grandchildren: Amber, Dylan, Jack, Alyssa, Gavin, Joseph, and Jonathan, her siblings, Teresa (Michael Hoover) Antoniazzi and Samuel Irons, her niece and nephew, Tara (Alex) Partridge and Tyler(Alya) Antoniazzi, along with many great nieces and nephews.

Rebecca was a loving mother, sister, aunt, and friend. She enjoyed reading in her younger years. Later in life, she found joy crocheting and creating diamond art.

All services for Rebecca were private. The GABAUER-LUTTON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, Inc., 117 Blackhawk Road, Beaver Falls, was honored to care for Becky and her family during this most difficult time, and was the funeral home that was in charge of her arrangements.

James L. McDanel (1955-2025)

James L. McDanel, 70, of Beaver Falls, who was a proud U.S. Army Veteran, passed away surrounded by his family on November 5th, 2025, at Heritage Valley Beaver. He was born in New Brighton on August 17th, 1955, a son of the late Forest and Olive (Smith) McDanel. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by four sisters: Regina Mae (McDanel) Burns, Mary Mills, Sharon Parrish and Kathy Coburn, his sister-in-law, Marilyn McDanel and his brother-in-laws, Ralph Mills and Richard Coburn. He is survived by his six brothers: Keith McDanel, Donald (Susie) McDanel, Forest “Sam” (Jackie) McDanel, John (Cindy) McDanel, Dennis McDanel and Carl McDanel, his sister, JoAnn Coburn, his brother-in-law, Frank Parrish, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and their families.

James was a graduate of New Brighton High School who went on to build his career in trade painting with McDanel Painting with one of his brothers, where he was known for his strong work ethic. His pride in his country was evident to all who knew him. Outside of work, he found peace and joy in the outdoors. He especially loved camping, where evenings spent around the campfire brought him some of his happiest memories. He left behind many cherished relatives and friends who will remember him for his loyalty, humor, and heart.

A Memorial Service will be held by James’ family at a later date. Arrangements have been entrusted to the J&J Spratt Funeral Home, 1612 Third Avenue, New Brighton.

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

Douglas Jay Fluharty (1951-2025)

Douglas Jay Fluharty, 74, of Beaver Falls, passed away on November 5th, 2025. He was born in Metz, West Virginia on February 5th, 1951, a son of the late Wayne Fluharty and Beulah Fluharty Miller and his stepfather, the late Cliff Miller. In addition to his parents and stepfather, he was preceded in death by brothers, David and Darrell Fluharty. He is survived by his loving wife of 51 years, Maria Fluharty, his children, Bridgette (Brandon) Hinzman and Jason (Erika) Fluharty, his grandchildren, Bailey and Braden Hinzman, and Alexis and Ty Fluharty, a brother, Donald (Doreen) Fluharty and numerous nieces and nephews.

Douglas proudly served in the United States Air Force and went on to dedicate over 20 years to the Beaver Falls Fire Department before retiring. He was an avid sports fan and could always be found cheering on his beloved Pittsburgh teams. Family and friends will be received on Sunday, November 9th, from 10 a.m. to 12 noon at Corless-Kunselman Funeral Services LLC, 3801 4th Avenue, Beaver Falls, who was in charge of his arrangements, with a service following at 12 noon, officiated by Major Tom Hinzman. Private interment will take place at Beaver Falls Cemetery, 2045 Darlington Road, Beaver Falls.

Carol Marie Lowe (1945-2025)

Carol Marie Lowe, 80, of Chippewa Township, after a long struggle with illness, passed away on November 1st, 2025, at the Concordia nursing facility at Concordia at Villa St. Joseph in Baden. She was born on April 3rd, 1945, the daughter of the late Charles Reed and Mabel Elizabeth (Ward) McBurney. She is survived by her loving husband, George Duncan Lowe, her brother, Donald (Sharyn) McBurney, her children: James Lowe, Nora (Robert) Jefferson, Joanna Lowe-Anker and Everett (Tiffany) Lowe; as well as her grandchildren: Jessica, Serena, Haven, Desmond, Chaz and Lana.

Carol was a graduate of both Beaver Falls High School and Geneva College and spent much of her life as a teacher in Christian schools and as a pastor’s wife. Friends will be received on Friday, November 14th, from 6-8 P.M. in the CORLESS-KUNSELMAN FUNERAL SERVICES, LLC, 3801 4th Avenue, Beaver Falls, who was in charge of her arrangements. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, November 15th at 11 A.M. at Hope Community Reformed Presbyterian Church, 3400 5th Avenue, Beaver Falls. Interment will be private.

William J. Linger, Sr. (1936-2025)

William J. Linger, Sr., 89, of Beaver, passed away on November 5th, 2025, in Providence Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center in Beaver Falls surrounded by his loving family.

He was born in Horner, West Virginia on September 23rd, 1936, the son of the late Homer and Helen (Frona) Louise Smith Linger. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his loving wife, Virginia Linger and his sister, Helen Gregory. He is survived by his two sons, Robert (Janet) Linger and William (Janet) Linger, Jr., two grandchildren and numerous nieces & nephews.

William was a U.S. Army Veteran serving as a combat medic in Germany during the Vietnam War.

Friends will be received on Tuesday, November 11th from 3-7 P.M. in the John Syka Funeral Home, Inc., 833 Kennedy Drive, Ambridge, who was in charge of his arrangements, and where a blessing service will be conducted Wednesday, November 12th at 9:30 A.M. Interment will follow in National Cemetery of the Alleghenies, 1158 Morgan Road, Bridgeville with full military honors.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of William Linger Sr., please visit the floral store of the John Syka Funeral Home, Inc by clicking here.