Marion (Merchant) Karbowski (1928-2025)

Marion (Merchant) Karbowski, 97, the loving wife to the late Henry Karbowski and mother of four children, passed away peacefully at her home on November 6th, 2025.

She was born in Walkers Mill, Pennsylvania in 1928, the daughter of the late James & Alice (Koneski) Merchant. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 73 years, Henry Karbowski. She is survived by her four children: Henry D. Karbowski (Maureen), Pauline Barnes, Judith Karbowski (Russell Rugani) and Faith Vallese (Joe); as well as six grandchildren: Melissa Kremers (Ben), Jeffrey Karbowski (Sonia), Meghan Cline (Brian), Alexandra Barnes-Olschwanger (Zev), Jaymee Merchant and Skylar Rugani; along with two great-grandchildren: Ella and Henry Karbowski. She is also survived by her brother, James Merchant, her brother-in-law, Michael Karbowski (Lois), her sister-in-law, Michelle Pituch (Daniel) and numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, and godchildren.

Marion was raised in Carnegie and married her beloved husband, Henry Karbowski, and supported his contracting business as the bookkeeper, delivery driver, and personal crew chef. She was a devoted wife, mother, and friend, and her greatest joy was caring for her family. Known for her delicious Italian and Polish dishes, and especially her cakes and pastries, she delighted all who gathered at her table. Through her extensive travels, both here and abroad, her infectious humor, charm, and thoughtfulness left a lasting impression wherever she went.

Friends will be received on Sunday, November 9th, from 1-4 p.m., and 6-8 p.m. in The Huntsman Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Moon Township, 1522 Coraopolis Heights Road, who was in charge of her arrangements. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, November 10th at 10 A.M. in St. Margaret Mary Catholic Church, 1 Parish Place, Coraopolis, Moon Township, (Everyone please meet at the church). Committal and entombment will follow at Resurrection Catholic Cemetery, 100 Resurrection Road, Coraopolis.

The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to Marion’s caretaker, Laurie Gloekl, for her compassionate care of Mom over the past two years; Good Samaritan Hospice, and all who have offered their love, prayers, and support during this time.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Mission of Mercy Pittsburgh at https://mompgh.org/donate/ providing underserved populations with the services they need to improve their health and well-being.

Juanita Cline (1927-2025)

Juanita Cline, 98, of Chippewa Township, passed away peacefully on November 4th, 2025, at Concordia at Villa St. Joseph in Baden.

She was born in Tanner, West Virginia on May 27th, 1927, a daughter of the late Kyle and Erma (Cunningham) Hardman. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Okey Theodore Cline, her sisters, Ruthjean (Howard) McGrew and Virginia Staats and a brother-in-law, Robert Tidd.

She is survived by her children, Ronald (Susan) Cline and Kathy (Rick) Helsing, her grandchildren: Erik (Anne) Helsing, Dane (Laura) Helsing, Heidi (Jason) Burtt, Kristin (Craig) Meckler, Douglas (Holly) Cline, and Amanda (Brandon) Payne; as well as thirteen great-grandchildren, a sister, Betty Tidd, a brother-in-law, Carol Staats and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

Juanita was proud to have been baptized on the same day as her husband, Okey.  They moved from West Virginia and settled in New Brighton in 1946 and began a life and family together.  She was the past president of the New Brighton Century Club and was known to her family as a fantastic cook.

Friends will be received on Monday, November 10th from 10 A.M. util the time of services at 11 A.M. in the GABAUER-LUTTON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, INC., Chippewa Township, 117 Blackhawk Road, Beaver Falls, who was in charge of her arrangements, and where her grandson, Pastor Dane Helsing, will be the officiant. of the services.

Entombment will be private in Sylvania Hills Memorial Park Mausoleum, 273 PA-68 Rochester.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Valley Baptist Church, 1405 8th Avenue, Beaver Falls, PA 15010.

Filomena “Fanny” (Rivetti) Toppetta (1934-2025)

Filomena “Fanny” (Rivetti) Toppetta, a lifelong resident of Aliquippa, passed away on November 5th, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family.

She was born on March 25th, 1934, the daughter of the late Luigi and Isabella (Adduci) Rivetti. In addition to her parents, her beloved husband, Gennarino “Gino” Toppetta, her brother and sister-in-law, Patsy and Elde Rivetti, their son, Michael Rivetti and her sister and brother-in-law, Florence “Babe” and Frank Ross, preceded her in death. She is survived by her devoted children: Augie Toppetta, Elizabeth (Mark) Keirs, John Toppetta, Marie Toppetta, Nancy Toppetta, and Steven Toppetta. She was a loving Nonna to her grandchildren: Rachel, Louis, Vincent (Rebecca), Jonathan (Leann), Katherine, Alexandra, Dominic, Gabrielle, Emmanuel, and Julian. She was also blessed with six cherished great-grandchildren: Emma Sue, Canaan, Eleanor, Anna Lou, Joshua, and Logan. She is also survived by her brother and sister-in-law, Louis and Rosalind Rivetti, along with numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Filomena lived a life filled with faith, family, and service. She was a member of Mary Queen of Saints Church and St. Titus Church in Aliquippa, where she found great joy singing in the choir and sharing her voice in praise and worship. In addition, she was a member of the Confraternity of Christian Mother’s. Her life reflected her steadfast faith and her deep love for the Lord Jesus and her special devotions to the Blessed Mother and Saint Padre Pio. She was happiest in her kitchen, where she lovingly prepared meals for her family, especially her famous chicken noodle soup, a dish loved by all those who gathered around her table. Her home was always open, her smile welcoming, and her heart generous beyond measure.

Her legacy of love, faith, and family will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her. Her warm smile, generous spirit, and unshakable devotion to God have left an indelible mark on all those she touched.

A Mass of Christian burial will be offered at St. Titus Church, 952 Franklin Avenue, Aliquippa on Friday, November 7th at 11 A.M. Private interment will follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, 2186 Broadhead Road, Aliquippa. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Anthony Mastrofrancesco Funeral Home, Inc., 2026 McMinn Street, Aliquippa. Family and friends are invited to gather at the church to honor and celebrate a life of faith well lived and a heart well loved.

In honoring Filomena’s love of animals the family suggests that donations, if desired be made in her memory to the Beaver County Humane Society, 3394 Brodhead Road, Aliquippa, PA 15001.

Nicholas Vujaklya (Passed on November 1st, 2025)

Nicholas Vujaklya, 78, of Midland, passed away on November 1st, 2025 at his home. He was the son of the late Nick and Susie (Crevar) Vujaklya. He is survived by his beloved sister and brother-in-law, Amelia Ann (Millie) and Robert Komara, his special nephews, Dan Komara and Jeff (Meredith) Komara and little Charlie, his cousin, Diane (Brian) Campbell.

Nicholas was a U.S. Army Veteran serving in the Mekong Delta Vietnam (67-68) with the 9th Division. He retired form Arco Polymers, where he worked in the lab. He later worked in maintenance at PA Cyber in Midland. He was a member of the St. George Serbian Orthodox Church in Midland, American Legion #0481, VFW, Midland Sportsman’s Club and the VVA Chapter #862.

In accordance with Nicholas’ wishes, there will be no visitation. Interment will be in the Beaver Cemetery, Buffalo Street, Beaver with full Military Rites by The Beaver Co. Special Unit.

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

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

Vondal Delano “Sonny” Diamond (Passed on November 1st, 2025)

Vondal Delano “Sonny” Diamond, 92, of Ohioville, passed away peacefully at home on November 1st, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

He was born in Logan, West Virginia, the son of the late Garnett and Opal Diamond. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his stepfather, Howard White; sisters, Roberta (Ray) Bartley and Jewell (John) Chaffee; and sister-in-law, Sally (Lester) Henderson. Sonny is survived by his devoted wife of 66 years, Carol, his beloved dog, Tookie, three children, Dale “Dewey” (Jean) Diamond, Shawna (Darryl) Michael and Robin (Jeff) Eror, seven loving grandchildren: Kayla (Michael) Dennis, Lindsay (Greg) Glass, Cody Eror, Lacey (Brett) Balco, E.J. (Sheena) Clark and Brandi (Riley) Hunter and Leanne Nagle; as well as ten great-grandchildren who adored their “Big Pappy.” He is also survived by his stepbrother, Howard (Faye) White Jr., his sister-in-law, Nancie (Jim) Wolfe and several nieces, nephews, and their families.

Vondal’s family moved to Midland in 1936. He attended Midland High School and graduated in 1952. After graduation, he was drafted into the U.S. Army, proudly serving two years during the Korean War. Following his military service, he worked at Crucible Steel until 1982, then joined Anderson’s Trucking. He later found his true passion driving a school bus for Shank Bus Company: later Frye Transportation, where he touched the lives of countless students before retiring at the age of 85.

On June 12th, 1959, Sonny married the love of his life, his “Snooks,” Carol Mae (Strohm) Diamond.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Good Samaritan Hospice, especially Ashley and Jessica, for their compassionate care.

Friends will be received on Thursday, November 6th, from 12 noon–3 p.m. and 6–8 p.m. at Noll Funeral Home Inc., 333 Third St., Beaver, who was in charge of his arrangements. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Midland American Legion Post 481 in Vondal’s honor.

Online condolences may be shared at www.nollfuneral.com.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Vondal Delano “Sonny” Diamond, please visit the flower store of the Noll Funeral Home, Inc. by clicking here.

Homer Filmore Yute (1933-2025)

Homer Filmore Yute, 91, of Brighton Township, passed away on November 1st, 2025 at Beaver Valley Health and Rehabilitation Center of Beaver Falls.

He was born in Allegheny County on December 22nd, 1933, a son of the late Homer and Edna Erb Yute. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his loving wife of 61 years, Patricia J. Yute. He is survived by his son, Douglas H. (Cindy) Yute, Wisconsin, his brother, George E. (Sandra) Yute, his sister, Ethel G. (Bill) Bradford, his sister, Kathryn A. (Richard) Qulia, his brother, James A (Margaret) Yute, his grandchildren, Justin H. (Jules) Yute, Heather A. Yute and Katelyn M. (Jacob) Skienar, his great-grandson, Nathan and his nephew, Kenneth A. (Diane), a long caretaker of Homer (and Patricia) for many years.

Homer, a graduate of Geneva College, worked most of his career at Crucible Steel in Midland, as an Industrial Engineer. He was a member of the Vanport Presbyterian Church in Vanport Township. He will be remembered most as a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, and great-grandfather.

Friends will be received on Friday November 7th, from 2 p.m. until the time of service at 4 p.m. in the Noll Funeral Home Inc., 333 Third Street, Beaver, who was in charge of his arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Homer’s name may be made to Tunnel to Towers Foundation.

Online condolences may be shared at nollfuneral.com.

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

Robert V. Vojtko (1956-2025)

Robert V. Vojtko, 69, of Midland, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully in his sleep on November 3, 2025, after a long battle with cancer. He was born in Rochester on March 26th,1956, a son of the late Lawrence and Anna (Kisasonak) Vojtko. In addition to his parents, Rob was preceded in death by a sister, Frances Deem-Atkinson, brothers-in-law George Deem, Sr., Donald Brunner and Mike Caffro, Sr., nephews TJ Bushmier, Thomas Thornton II and Troy Brunner, and most recently, his twin sister, Rosie Emerick. He is survived by his sisters, Dolly Caffro, Laura Brunner, Lori Palluch (Bob) and JoAnn Hart (Mark), his brother, John Vojtko (Dodo), his brother-in-law, James Emerick, as well as many beloved nieces and nephews.

Robert retired from Industry Terminal and Salvage Company, where he worked as a Heavy Equipment Operator. When he wasn’t running the loader at work, he could be found at Josephine’s, sitting in front of the slot machine, as a way to wind down. In his healthier years, he enjoyed hunting and fishing with his brother Johnny and friends. He couldn’t pass up a good sale, and after scanning the grocery store ads, would use a tank of gas to get a good deal and save a dollar. He also enjoyed visiting the farmer’s market for peppers and onions. As his health declined, he was lovingly cared for by his older sisters Laura and Dolly. Though he never had children of his own, he loved watching the antics of all of his nieces and nephews, and quietly hanging out with his family.

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

The family of Rob would like to extend a special thank you to the staff at Gallagher Hospice, Dr. Lebowicz, and Dr. Pennock for the love and compassion care given to him during his time with them.

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

Carolyn Schulz Church (1932-2025)

Carolyn Schulz Church, 92, of Beaver Falls, (Chippewa), passed away on November 3rd, 2025. She was born in Oswego, New York on November 11th, 1932, the daughter of the late Henry F. Schulz and Mildred I. Matott, who died soon after Carolyn’s birth.  Henry later married Mildred’s sister Cora B. Matott, who became her mother and raised her and her older brother. The family later moved to Watertown, New York. She attended Watertown High School and the House of the Good Samaritan School of Nursing, graduating in 1953. Upon graduation, she became an Operating Room nurse.  She married John “Jack” Church in 1956. In addition to her parents and her husband, she was preceded in death by a brother, Henry F. Schulz Jr. and a nephew, Henry F. Schulz III. Survivors are her daughter Karen L. Church of Chippewa and son John R. (Nancy) Church III of Delanson, New York, two grandchildren, Kyleigh (Jared) Cleghorn of Alexandria, Virginia, and Brett Church of Delanson, New York, a nephew, Christian (Sandy) Schulz of Olney, Maryland and her nephew’s widow, Leslie Schulz of Silver Spring, Maryland. She was a member of Brush Run Church in Beaver Falls and a member of their Willing Workers. She was also a member of the Chippewa Woman’s Club.  She enjoyed Antiquing, Knitting, and working on Genealogy.  She also enjoyed Bossa Nova, jazz and all music by Frank Sinatra.

A visitation will be at Gabauer-Lutton Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc., Chippewa Twp., 117 Blackhawk Road, Beaver Falls, on Saturday, November 8th, from 10:30 A.M. until time of services at 2 P.M. Burial will be private at a later date.

The family would like to thank the staff of Pinnacle Hospice and Dr. Carl Sestito.  In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Brush Run Church – 1216 Blackhawk Road, Beaver Falls, PA 15010 or the Beaver County Humane Society – 3394 Brodhead Road, Aliquippa PA 15001.

Lorena Lee Ellefson (1933-2025)

Lorena Lee Ellefson, 92, of Chippewa Township, passed away on November 1st, 2025, at Celebration Villa of Chippewa. She was born in East Liverpool, Ohio on April 16th, 1933, the daughter of the late Leland and Thecil Pearson Douglas. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her loving husband, Edward Earl Ellefson, her son, Ed Ellefson, her daughter, Karen Shoaff, three brothers: Kenny Douglas, Forest Ray Douglas and Keith Douglas and her grandson, David Ellefson. She is survived by her son, Tim (Dorothy) Ellefson, her son-in-law, Kevin Shoaff and two grandchildren, Kimmie Jo (Augie) Schmitt and Crystal Ellefson.

Lorena lived a life of service, creativity, and love. She was a proud military wife for 20 years, She was a beacon of resilience and grace, adapting to the demands of military life with unwavering commitment and strength. Her professional journey saw her serving as a Nurse’s Aide for five years and as a Seamstress for 21 years at the Beaver Valley Geriatric Center. Off-duty, Lorena’s nimble fingers and creative spirit found a home in the art of sewing, crafting, and helping others. She even used her skill to sew and donate masks during the COVID-19 pandemic. She was a devoted member of the First United Presbyterian Church of Darlington and her faith was an integral part of her life. Her service extended beyond her church and work, volunteering for the Red Cross and living a life that exemplified the spirit of giving. Friends will be received on Friday, November 7th from 10 a.m. until the time of service at 12 noon in CORLESS-KUNSELMAN FUNERAL SERVICES, LLC, 3801 4th Avenue, Beaver Falls, who was in charge of her arrangements. Interment will be private at the National Cemetery of the Alleghenies. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made in Lorena’s name to DAV, Payable to: DAV – Disabled American Veterans P.O. Box 14301 Cincinnati, OH 45250, or Vietnam Veterans Of America 8719 Colesville Road, Suite 100 Silver Spring, Maryland 20910.

Richard Kuniewicz (1940-2025)

Richard Kuniewicz, 85, of Baden, passed away at home on November 1st, 2025, with loving family by his side. He was born in Ambridge on April 18th, 1940, a son of the late Peter and Katherine (Durkolec) Kuniewicz. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his first wife, Donna, three brothers, Paul, John and Edward, three sisters, Jane Sinutka, Helen Bachor and Virginia Haitz. He is survived by his second wife, Mary Ellen, his son, Richard (Gina) Kuniewicz, two daughters, Jane (Chuck) Stadnik and Joanna (Brian) Schmidt, six grandsons, three granddaughters and two great- grandsons and a myriad of nieces and nephews.

Richard was a member of St Luke the Evangelist Church in Ambridge. His work life was spent as a machinist at H.R. Robertson, later Centra. He was a long-time member of the Baden American Legion Post 641 and Ambridge Eagles AERIE 1365.

All are welcome to gather for a visitation on Friday, November 7th from 4-8 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 held on Saturday, November 8th, commencing at 11 A.M. Interment will follow in the Good Samaritan Cemetery.

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