Category: Obituaries

Carole A. Zemkosky (3/8/1944 — 7/27/2024)

Carole A. Zemkosky, 80 of Center Twp., passed away on Saturday, July 27, 2024 in Heritage Valley Beaver.  She was born in Sewickley, the daughter of the late Ann & Steve Zvonar.  She worked as a nurse’s aid for many years at the Beaver Valley Geriatric Center.  She loved to watch the Steelers, often watching with her son on the phone. She also loved to gamble and take trips to Vegas.  She was a member of Mary Queen of Saints Parish, Our Lady of Fatima Church.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved son Michael J. Zemkosky on July 26, 2021.

She is survived by her loving daughter and son-in-law: Marcia and Dan Carney, Crescent Twp., and a brother and sister-in-law:  Steven Jeffrey & Patricia Zvonar, TX.

Shirley Ann Grundza (April 17, 1932 – July 30, 2024)

Shirley Ann Grundza, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and sister, passed away peacefully in the early hours on Tuesday, July 30, 2024, at the age of 92.

Born on April 17, 1932, in Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania, to the late Edward and Marie (Willenbacher) Eckroate, Shirley married her husband Edward “Ed” Grundza in 1951 and settled in Baden, PA, where they raised their five children.  A devoted wife and mother, Shirley also balanced and accomplished a career with the Sears & Roebuck and Co., where she served in Human Resources for over 25 years.

An avid gardener, Shirley truly appreciated the beauty of nature and loved spending time outside tending to her flowers.  She also loved to travel, and shared countless adventures with her husband Ed, and made many lasting memories with her children and grandchildren during summer beach trips.  Finding home each winter in Homosassa Springs, Florida, Shirley would escape the cold, soak in the Florida sunshine, and play several rounds of golf.  Shirley was also a faithful member of the Good Samaritan Catholic parish in Ambridge.

Shirley was predeceased in death by her husband, Edward Grundza, her sister and brother-in-law, Phylis and John Majcher, brother-in-law, Joseph “Joe” Zagorski, sister-in-law, Yvonne Eckroate, and son-in-law, Jonathan Baacke.

Shirley is survived by her sister, Dorthy Zagorski, of Beaver, PA; and brother, Edward Eckroate of Montgomery, AL.  She is also survived by her children: Cheryl (Kevin) Ostrowski, of Beaver, PA; Christine (Robert) Mease, of Myerstown, PA; Richard (Lisa) Grundza, of Monaca, PA; William (Kathy) Grundza, of Baden, PA; Linda Baacke, of Wexford, PA. Shirley also leaves behind her 11 grandchildren: John, Sarah, Laurie, Michael, Jeremy, Ryan, Jennifer, Christopher, Jesse, Adam, and Rachel; 16 great-grandchildren; and many loving nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends.

Family and friends will be received on Sunday, August 4, 2024, from 1-5 PM in the John Syka Funeral Home, 833 Kennedy Drive, Ambridge, from where a prayer service will be held on Monday, August 5, 2024, at 10 AM.  A mass of Christian Burial will be held Tuesday at 10:30 A.M. in the Good Samaritan Catholic Church. Interment will follow in the Economy Cemetery.

The family would like to thank the staff of Franciscan Manor and Celebration Villa for the wonderful care they provided Shirley.

Margaret L. “Marge” Yanko (December 7, 1923 – July 25, 2024)

Margaret L. “Marge” (Emrick) Yanko, peacefully passed away on July 25, 2024. She was 100 years old.

Marge was born December 7, 1923, in Woodlawn, PA and is the last surviving child of the late Andrew and Mary (Smith) Emrick. In addition to her parents, she was joyfully reunited with her beloved husband, Michael R. Yanko and her eleven siblings who also preceded her in death.

She was a member of Mary Queen of Saints Parrish, Our Lady of Fatima Church.

Margaret is survived by her cherished family: A son and daughter-in-law: Michael R. Yanko, Jr. and his wife Angela, who was like a daughter to Marge. Two cherished granddaughters: Michelle (Zach) Robertson, Maria BonAnno and Joey Welsh, three great grandchildren: Malena, Nico and Giuliana, and Albert Emrick who was very special to Marge along with numerous nieces and nephews.

The family would like to extend their gratitude to Good Samaritan Hospice for the wonderful care that was extended to Marge.

At her request, all services were private. Entombment took place at Mt. Olivet Cemetery.

Arrangements were with Anthony Mastrofrancesco Funeral Home Inc. 2026 McMinn Street, Aliquippa, PA 15001

 

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Glenn Richard Hatt (September 14, 1933 – July 28, 2024)

Glenn R. Hatt, Sr., age 90 of Monaca, PA, died July 28, 2024 at Good Samaritan Hospice, Wexford. Glenn was born September 14, 1933 to the late William B. and Dolores D. (Bard) Hatt. He was a retired power plant furnace operator for Zinc Corporation of America (St. Joe). Methodist by faith, he attended the True Life Church of Chippewa. He was an Air Force veteran of the Korean War. He was a member of the Center Township Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #1821. He loved the Pittsburgh Sport Teams and was a fan of hunting and walking in the woods. Glenn is survived by two sons and daughters-in-law, Glenn R. Jr. and Adele Hatt of The Villages, Florida and Daniel J. and Kelly Hatt of Ohioville, six grandchildren, Tina Hatt-Pollack, Steven Hatt, Jessica Rafisardi, Cody Williams, Kelsey Hatt and Joey Hatt; six great-grandchildren, Nanette, Faith, Stephine, Jesir, Dominick and Adaline; one brother Ronald (Joe) and Charlene Hatt of New Sewickley and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife Nanette J. (Shaffer) Hatt, three sisters, Eleanor Morrow, Annabelle Bork and Mary Alice Hatt and four brothers, Jack, William, Charles and Donald. Friends will be received Wednesday from 4-7 PM at the William Murphy Funeral Home, Rochester where a service will be held on Thursday at 11:00 AM with the Beaver County Special Unit presenting full military honors to their fallen comrade.

 

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Carol Ann Nelson (June 2, 1944 ~ July 27, 2024)

Carol Ann Nelson (Pike-McKelvey), also known as GeGe, 80 of Darlington, Pa passed away at home on Saturday, July 27, 2024 surrounded by family.

Carol was born on June 2, 1944 to Martha Pike (Mosca) and Harold Pike. She grew up in Bridgewater, Pa and attended Beaver Area High School. Carol worked in an array of fields throughout her lifetime. While raising her children, she was employed by Phoenix Glass in Monaca PA. Being on the road was one of Carol’s loves which led her to driving long distance for pharmaceutical deliveries and driving limousine for a friend. Carol consistently and with pleasure drove everyone everywhere. It’s just something she liked to do.

Carol was a simple woman yet a straight shooter. Encountering many battles in life she still did her best to raise four sassy girls into strong, confident, good women… mission accomplished mom! In Carol’s softer more simplistic times, she enjoyed standing at the kitchen window, watching deer prancing through the yard while birds enjoyed breakfast from the feeder. Carol absolutely adored her great-great grandbabies and loved spending time with them.

Later in life, Carol endured several blows to her health yet each and every time, with her loyal husband by her side, she fought through and always came out on top! However, in the past year, or so, Carol began having hearing trouble and worse, she began losing her sight. The latter of the two leading to her decision to stop driving as to not put others on the road in danger. No longer driving was extremely difficult for Carol and continuing to lose her sight took a toll on her. Still, every morning she put her feet on the floor and gave the day a run for its money! When the time came that her frail, tiny, body was failing her, she was most concerned about being a burden to her family, of which she never was. Carol wasn’t ready to leave, but if she had to go, she wanted it to be at home with her family and that wish was granted.

Left to cherish her memory is her devoted husband William “Bill/Bull” Nelson. Four daughters, April Swager (Donnie), Kimberly McKelvey, Jewel Collwell (Dan), Pamela McKelvey. Stepson Mike Heaton. Stepdaughter Jami Hamrick-Reese. Grandchildren, Nicole King and Corey Moorehouse, Ashley and Brandon McKelvey, Logan Collwell, Hayden Kimbrough, Gage McKelvey, Caleb, Mikey and Weston Heaton, Ally Boxen (Tyler), Kacie Hartzell (Chase). Great-Grandchildren, Samara, Aleena, Jeremiah, Julian, Kaiden, Tori, Natalie, Alivia, Maddix, Ryder, Liam, Aspen, Sutton, Aubrey, Ella, Nash, Crew and Charlotte. Great-great-grandchildren Raiden, and one on the way. Brother-in-law Robert Nelson (Birdie), sister-in-law Mary Laughlin, sister-in-law Fran Jack (Nelson). A host of nieces and nephews. A special niece Jeana Pike and good friend Marie Hawk.

Carol was preceded in death by her mother Martha Mosca, stepfather Norman Mosca, father Harold Pike, brother Bobby Pike, brother and sister-in-law Mark and Mary Pike, Nephew Mark Pike Jr., mother-in-law Mary E. Nelson, brother-in-law Dave Nelson, sister-in-law Shirley Nelson, brother-in-law John Laughlin and stepson-in-law Matthew Reese.

At Carol’s request, there will be no public service. Immediate family and closest friends will gather for a memorial picnic at a later date. Cremation entitled to J&J Spratt’s Funeral Home, New Brighton, PA.

Thank you all for the love and support shown to Carol’s family at this most difficult time.

Carol Ann Nelson (Pike-McKelvey), also known as GeGe, 80 of Darlington, Pa passed away at home on Saturday, July 27, 2024 surrounded by family.

Carol was born on June 2, 1944 to Martha Pike (Mosca) and Harold Pike. She grew up in Bridgewater, Pa and attended Beaver Area High School. Carol worked in an array of fields throughout her lifetime. While raising her children, she was employed by Phoenix Glass in Monaca PA. Being on the road was one of Carol’s loves which led her to driving long distance for pharmaceutical deliveries and driving limousine for a friend. Carol consistently and with pleasure drove everyone everywhere. It’s just something she liked to do.

Carol was a simple woman yet a straight shooter. Encountering many battles in life she still did her best to raise four sassy girls into strong, confident, good women… mission accomplished mom! In Carol’s softer more simplistic times, she enjoyed standing at the kitchen window, watching deer prancing through the yard while birds enjoyed breakfast from the feeder. Carol absolutely adored her great-great grandbabies and loved spending time with them.

Later in life, Carol endured several blows to her health yet each and every time, with her loyal husband by her side, she fought through and always came out on top! However, in the past year, or so, Carol began having hearing trouble and worse, she began losing her sight. The latter of the two leading to her decision to stop driving as to not put others on the road in danger. No longer driving was extremely difficult for Carol and continuing to lose her sight took a toll on her. Still, every morning she put her feet on the floor and gave the day a run for its money! When the time came that her frail, tiny, body was failing her, she was most concerned about being a burden to her family, of which she never was. Carol wasn’t ready to leave, but if she had to go, she wanted it to be at home with her family and that wish was granted.

Left to cherish her memory is her devoted husband William “Bill/Bull” Nelson. Four daughters, April Swagger (Donnie), Kimberly McKelvey, Jewel Collwell (Dan), Pamela McKelvey. Stepson Mike Heaton. Stepdaughter Jami Hamrick-Reese. Grandchildren, Nicole King and Corey Moorehouse, Ashley and Brandon McKelvey, Logan Collwell, Hayden Kimbrough, Gage McKelvey, Caleb, Mikey and Weston Heaton, Ally Boxen (Tyler), Kacie Hartzell (Chase). Great-Grandchildren, Samara, Aleena, Jeremiah, Julian, Kaiden, Tori, Natalie, Alivia, Maddix, Ryder, Liam, Aspen, Sutton, Aubrey, Ella, Nash, Crew and Charlotte. Great-great-grandchildren Raiden, and one on the way. Brother-in-law Robert Nelson (Birdie), sister-in-law Mary Laughlin, sister-in-law Fran Jack (Nelson). A host of nieces and nephews. A special niece Jeana Pike and good friend Marie Hawk.

Carol was preceded in death by her mother Martha Mosca, stepfather Norman Mosca, father Harold Pike, brother Bobby Pike, brother and sister-in-law Mark and Mary Pike, Nephew Mark Pike Jr., mother-in-law Mary E. Nelson, brother-in-law Dave Nelson, sister-in-law Shirley Nelson, brother-in-law John Laughlin and stepson-in-law Matthew Reese.

At Carol’s request, there will be no public service. Immediate family and closest friends will gather for a memorial picnic at a later date. Cremation entitled to J&J Spratt’s Funeral Home, New Brighton, PA.

Thank you all for the love and support shown to Carol’s family at this most difficult time.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Carol Ann Nelson, please visit our floral store.

Mariellen Ketterer (December 27, 1958 – July 24, 2024)

Mariellen “Punk” Ketterer age 65 of Rochester Township passed away peacefully July 24, 2024 at Heritage Valley Beaver. She was born December 27, 1958 in Rochester. She was the daughter of the late John and Nora L. McCusker Futato.
She was the proud owner of Punk’s Ice Cream Shoppe Baden. Punk had such love and dedication to taking care of her store and especially her customers. She always made sure your visit was one to remember. Punk enjoyed spending time with her family, and had an extra special love for her grandchildren. Punk was an inspiration to so many people and has made a huge impact in so many lives. She would find any opportunity to help anyone and everyone, giving to families in need to sponsoring and donating to so many events and charities. Punk was an avid golfer and belonged to the Blackhawk Ladies Invitational Golf League. She enjoyed her golf trips with her friends and her vacations with her family.
Mariellen was preceded in death by her husband, Thomas R. Ketterer, Jr. in 2008. She was also preceded by a brother, John Futato and a brother-in-law, Ted Scherer. She is survived by one son and daughter-in-law, Eric J. and Julie Ketterer of Rochester Township, two daughters and a son-in-law, Emily J. and Jonathan Lapic of Staunton, Virginia and LuCinda E. Ketterer of Rochester Township. Also surviving are nine loving grandchildren, Anna, Abram, Nora, and Judah Lapic and Ehren, Evelyn and Eli Ketterer, Thomas and Cole Christner, her K-9 companions, Millie and Ruby, a sister and brother-in-law Julie and Mike Sabo of Beaver, two brothers and two sisters-in-law, Dan and Rita Futato and Greg and Judy Futato, all of Georgia, her mother-in-law and father-in-law Thomas and Eileen Ketterer, Rochester Township, a brother-in-law and three sisters- in-law, Susan and Dave Boehm of Rochester Township, Annette Futato of Vanport and Pam Scherer of New Sewickley Township and numerous nieces, nephews and many friends. Friends will be received Tuesday from 2-7 PM and Wednesday from 11:00 AM until time of service at 1:30 PM in the William Murphy Funeral Home, 349 Adams Street, Rochester.
The family wishes to thank all who supported our mother with care and comfort during her courageous battle with cancer this past year. We are so thankful for you all!

 

To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Mariellen Ketterer please visit our Sympathy Store.

Richard J. Smith (Died – July 24, 2024)

Our beloved, Richard J. Smith, 70, of Imperial, left us on July 24, 2024.

A son of the late Charles W. and Irene R. (Alexander) Smith, Richard grew up in Monaca and was a graduate of Monaca High School Class of 1972. He attended cosmetology school and had a lifelong career in the industry, which included his own salon, Richards Creative Hair Styling.

Richard, an extraordinary hairdresser, left a lasting impact on everyone he met. With a vibrant personality and a sharp sense of humor, he not only brightened the lives of his clients but also brought joy to countless people. Over his career, he created thousands of stunning hairstyles, each one a testament to his remarkable talent and passion for his craft. His ability to transform and uplift others through his work will be fondly remembered and deeply missed.

Beyond his professional achievements, he was a wonderful friend to many. His kindness, generosity, and unwavering support touched the hearts of all who knew him. Richard will be deeply missed and forever loved by his friends, family, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Kathy Smith Moore; a brother, Charles Smith; and his precious dog, Bella.

Richard is survived by a special niece, Heidi Smith and her children, Brittany (Justin) Garay and Cody Baxa; his great nephew, Dominic Garay; a special nephew, Todd (Amy) Smith and his children Grace, Brenden, and Marina; his nephew, Shaun Moore; his aunts Hattie Gitts and June Stalnecker; numerous cousins; and many very special friends.

Friends will be received Saturday, August 3rd from 2- 4pm at SIMPSON FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES, 1119 Washington Avenue, Monaca (724) 728 4000.

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

 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Richard, please visit our floral store.

Jerome “Snoop” Clark (December 17, 1979 – July 25, 2024)

Jerome “Snoop” Clark Jr., 44, of Beaver Falls, passed away peacefully at home on July 25, 2024. He was the beloved son of the late Jerome Clark Sr. and Lydia Villella. Jerome is survived by his siblings: Melinda Clark and her partner Jon Minor, Brian (Jermissa) Clark, Trista Clark, and Lamont Clark, as well as numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins. Jerome worked as a cook at Mario’s Restaurant in Bridgewater and was known for his artistic talents. He was a passionate Pittsburgh sports fan and deeply cherished his family. Visitation will be held on Thursday, August 1, 2024, from 4:00 PM until the funeral service at 7:00 PM at Alvarez-Hahn Funeral Services and Cremation, LLC., located at 547 8th Street, Ambridge. For more information, call 724-266-2549.

Kerry L. (Safreed) Kamenski (September 19, 1962 ~ July 24, 2024)

Kerry L. Kamenski, 61, of Patterson Township, died Tuesday, July 24, 2024, at AHN Wexford.

Born September 19, 1962, she was the daughter of the late Alan C. and Barbara Allen Safreed. Kerry had a passion for planting flowers and creating beautiful gardens that attracted hummingbirds with their vibrant colors. She found peace and happiness in the quiet moments spent camping under the stars, surrounded by the sounds of nature. Kerry also cherished the daily walks she took with her loyal canine companions, finding solace in their unconditional love and companionship.

Surviving is her loving husband, Wayne E. Kamenski; and brother and sister-in-law, David and Pamela Safreed.

Friends will be received on Tuesday from 6-8 PM in the HILL AND KUNSELMAN FUNERAL HOME, www.hillandkunselman.com, 3801 Fourth Avenue, Beaver Falls.

Interment will be private at Beaver Cemetery

Memorial contributions may be made in Kerry’s name to the American Cancer Society, American Cancer Society P.O. Box 6704 Hagerstown, MD 2174.

 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Kerry L. (Safreed) Kamenski, please visit our floral stor

Aureilo Vallecorsa (February 7, 1951 – July 26, 2024)

Aurelio Vallecorsa “Ralph/Sonny”, 73 of Ambridge, passed away on Friday, July 26, 2024, at Good Samaritan Hospice House.

He was born February 7, 1951, in Ambridge.  Son of the late Aurelio (Rally) and Alice (Buffalini) Vallecorsa.  By trade, he worked as a Purchasing Agent for Penn Dot for 32 years.  He thoroughly enjoyed hunting with his kids, nephews and nieces; loved going to the casino with his wife, brother, Sam, and sister-in-law, Millie; he also enjoyed spending time with his sister, Anita (Mike).

Aurelio is survived by his son, A.J. (Desiree) Vallecorsa; daughter, Maggie (Bill) Faltenovich; son, Anthony Vallecorsa; son, Chris (Bekah) Vallecorsa; grand-daughters, Haley and Peyton Faltenovich, and Khloe Vallecorsa.

Preceding him in death, in addition to his parents, were his loving wife of 47 years, Margaret (Putnam) Vallecorsa; 2 sisters, Blanche Vallecorsa and Anna DeCanio; niece, Diane DeCanio; and grandson, Nathan Faltenovich.

Friends will be received on Monday, from 10 A.M – 12 P.M. in the John Syka Funeral Home, Inc., 833 Kennedy Drive, Ambridge.  A funeral service and interment will be held immediately following in the Mars Cemetery, with Pastor Rick Thornhill, Officiating.