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Joyce Elaine Konkol

February 20, 2026 |

By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home

Joyce Elaine Konkol, an 83-year-old resident of North Huntingdon, peacefully passed away in her residence on February 18, 2026. Born on March 13, 1942, in McKeesport, Pennsylvania, she was the daughter of the late Campbell Mitchell and Florence Harden Mitchell. Joyce was deeply proud of her professional career as a Registered Nurse at McKeesport Hospital and UPMC Ambulatory Surgery Center in Monroeville, where she dedicated her life to providing compassionate care. She was preceded in death by her parents, beloved daughter Susan Guffey Riley, and sister Phyllis McClay. Joyce is survived by her husband, Paul Konkol; daughter, Michele DiPietro, and her husband, Lou; stepdaughters, Lisa Abd and George, and Amy Sandala and her husband John; sister, Doris Martino; and brother, David Mitchell. Her cherished grandchildren include Dana & Evan Powell, Drew & Kara Guffey, Derek & Kate Fowler, Grant & Emily Fowler, Devan Sandala, Mia Sandala, Elissa Abd & Amanda Abd Huber; and seven great-grandchildren, Marlo, Harper Sue, Cassidy, Myla, Charlie, Grant & Hope. Friends and family are cordially invited to pay their respects at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, located at 176 Clay Pike, N. Huntingdon, PA, on Thursday, February 26th from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM. A funeral service will be held at 1:00 PM in the funeral home chapel, followed by interment in Mount Vernon Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests a donation to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

 


Doris Mae Stipkovits

February 19, 2026 |

By Strifflers Family Funeral Homes | Posted in: Strifflers Family Funeral Homes

Doris Mae Stipkovits, age 98, of McKeesport, PA, died on Thursday, February 19, 2026. She was born in McKeesport, PA, on October 18, 1927, and was the daughter of the late Louis and Mary Movic Ferry.

 
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Stephanie A. Petrovay

February 19, 2026 |

By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home

Stephanie A. Petrovay, age 86 of North Versailles, passed away on February 18, 2026. She was born on January 8, 1940 in Braddock, a daughter of the late Stephen Heinack and Irene Pillar Heinack. Stephanie was an office worker, a cat lover, and she enjoyed playing bingo. In addition to her parents, Stephanie was preceded in death by her beloved husband, William Petrovay, one brother Eugene Heinack (wife Sandra), and one sister, Gloria Miele (husband Ronald). She is survived by one brother, Norman Heinack (wife Eileen), and two sisters, Arlene Dzura (husband Michael) and Denise Daw (husband Dennis). Friends will be received at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon, on Saturday from 9 to 10 AM. A service will take place in the funeral home chapel at 10 AM. Interment will be private in Monongahela Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be given in Stephanie's name to St. Stephen Byzantine Catholic Church in North Huntingdon. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com

 


Janet "Sis" Penick

February 19, 2026 |

By Willig Funeral Home | Posted in: Willig Funeral Home & Crematory

Janet "Sis" Penick, 91, of McKeesport, passed away peacefully on February 18, 2026, at UPMC East Hospital. Born to the late Henry and Louise Schank, Janet lived a life rooted in devotion to family and the simple joys that made each day special. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Pete Penick, with whom she shared 72 years of marriage, and her daughter, Kathleen Delivuk; brother, Henry (Marlene) Schank Jr. and sister Audrey (Donald) Argyle.

She is survived by her beloved children, Janet Merk, Sharon (Joseph) Maxwell, and Peter Penick; and by her cherished grandchildren, Amy (Joseph) Chiaverini, David (Mellisa) Puskaric, Danyel Kelly, Brooke Kelly, Gary Keller Jr., Rachael Penick, and Sarah Penick; brother, Robert (Darice) Schank, and many nieces and nephews. She also leaves behind numerous great-grandchildren who were a constant source of pride and joy.

 
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Gladys “Sandy” Franks

February 19, 2026 |

By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory

Sandy Franks, 91, of Elizabeth, passed away February 17, 2026, at Lafayette Manor in Uniontown, PA. Born in Masontown, PA on August 9, 1934, she was the daughter of the late Glenn and Rosella Rockwell. Sandy was a loving mother and wife who was always there for her family and friends. She supported her husband as the proprietors of the Connellsville Super Dollar. Sandy was very active and enjoyed her time with friends in the Highlander Ladies bowling league and several golf leagues, including the Wednesday Wonders, which she helped to organize. She also enjoyed meeting with her friends for monthly cards and Pokeno games. Sandy was a 55-year member of Central Highlands Community Methodist Church, where she was a member of the United Methodist Women and a volunteer for Elizabeth Forward Meals on Wheels. Sandy could often be found in her favorite place, the golf course, where she enjoyed afternoons with her husband. Together, they enjoyed traveling up and down the East Coast searching for good weather and the next golf course to experience. She was predeceased by her parents and her high school sweetheart husband of 58 years, Leonard Franks; her sisters Glenna Rockwell, Elizabeth Jackson, and Mary Leidecker; and her brother Jack Rockwell. She is survived by her son, Leonard “Lenny” Franks, of Uniontown, PA, daughter, Cindy Spizarny (Steve) of Erie, PA, her grandchildren, Joshua and Megan Spizarny of Erie, and several nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Sandy’s name to Elizabeth Forward Meals on Wheels, 100 Timothy Drive, Elizabeth, PA 15037. Friends will be received on Monday, February 23, 2026, from 11:00 am until the time of service at 1:00 pm at the Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 6028 Smithfield Street, Boston, PA 15135. (412) 751-5000 Drew J. Gilbert, director. Burial will follow at Churchill Cemetery in McClellandtown. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Bernard M. Townsend Funeral Home, Masontown, PA. The family would like to thank the loving and caring staff of Lafayette Manor Skilled Care home for the kindness they showed their mother during her stay.

 


Goldie L. Kass

February 18, 2026 |

By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory

Goldie L. Kass, age 94, of Elizbeth Twp., passed away Monday, February 16, 2026 in Jefferson Hospital. She was a member of Central Highlands Community United Methodist Church where she was a pre-school Sunday School teacher for more than 40 years and enjoyed volunteering with her church. She loved to crochet and embroider, and made delicious cinnamon rolls. Born December 5, 1931 in Wenatchee, WA, she was a daughter of the late Byron and Mildred (Pendell) Harper and wife of the late Richard E. Kass. She is survived by her children, Bruce (Joyce) Kass of Port Charlotte, FL, Clark (Mary) Kass of Munhall and Pamela (David) Werner of Elizabeth Twp.; grandchildren, Ryan Kass, Alison Kass and Jacquelyn Karnes; great-grandchildren, Ava and Alexandra Karnes; also, nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by six siblings. No visitation or services are planned. Memorial contributions may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, 301 Grant Street, Suite 900, Pittsburgh, PA 15219. Offer condolences at www.bekavacfuneralhome.com.

 


Donna M. DeFrances

February 18, 2026 |

By Willig Funeral Home | Posted in: Willig Funeral Home & Crematory

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Donna M. DeFrances, age 69, of McKeesport, who left us on February 14, 2026. Born on April 26, 1956, in McKeesport, Donna was the beloved daughter of the late Lawrence and Amelia (Gregory) Jordan, and the wife of the late Milton DeFrances.
Donna dedicated her life to caring for others as a retired CNA from Riverside Care Center in McKeesport, following her time at the former Briarcliff of Irwin. She was truly the heart of her family, known for her incredible baking and her talent for hosting holiday gatherings. Donna had a special way of ensuring that everyone felt loved and left with full bellies. Her warmth and generosity will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew her. She leaves behind a legacy of love and kindness.

 
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Shirley H. Lang

February 18, 2026 |

By Jaycox-Jaworski Funeral Home - Crematory | Posted in: Jaycox-Jaworski Funeral Home & Crematory

Shirley H. Lang, age 91, of Hamilton Township, NJ, formerly of White Oak, passed away on February 14, 2026, at Serenity Hospice Care in New Jersey. Born June 27, 1934, in Duquesne, she was the daughter of the late William and Marcella (Dominici) Blotzer and the wife of the late John M. Lang, Sr.

Shirley's journey was one of love and dedication. After raising her family, she enjoyed a fulfilling chapter as a dedicated member of the workforce at the Community College of Allegheny County. A woman of immense talent and grace, she shared her passion for music as a member of the choir at St. Robert Bellarmine Church, where her voice lifted the spirits of many.

In her leisure time, Shirley found joy in antiquing and gardening, activities through which she expressed her creativity and appreciation for beauty. However, her greatest joy came from spending time with her family, creating memories that will be treasured for generations to come.

She is survived by her children, John M. (Marie Noelle Sayan) Lang Jr., Daniel J. (Noako) Lang, Christine (John Gluscic) Lang, Roberta Lang, Sandy (James) Lang-Anderson; daughter-in-law, Laura Lang; 17 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren.

In addition to her parents and husband, she was also preceded in death by a granddaughter, Kylie Lang-Gluscic; brothers, William, John, Robert, Richard, and Daniel Blotzer.

Family and friends will be received at Jaycox-Jaworski Funeral Home & Crematory on Sunday, February 22, 2026, from 4 to 6 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Monday, 10 a.m. at Mary, Mother of God Parish, St. Angela Merici Church. The burial will follow at Good Shepherd Cemetery. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.jaycox-jaworskifh.com.
Chris Odasso, Supervisor

 


Stephen J. Fekete

February 18, 2026 |

By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home

Stephen J. Fekete, age 59 of Westmoreland City, died February 18, 2026, at Independence Health Westmoreland Hospital. He was born Sept 9, 1966, in Plainfield, New Jersey, a son of Judy A. Churly Fekete and the late John Fekete. Stephen was a member of St. Nicholas Byzantine Church in McKeesport. He was employed by ARC, the Blind Association and also Paula Teacher and Associates. Stephen enjoyed wrestling, coloring and art projects. In addition to his mother, he is survived by two brothers, Robert (Susan), Christopher (Jamie), nieces and nephews, Brice, Reese, Sarah, Julie and Michael., aunts, uncles and cousins. There will be no public visitation. A service will be held at a later date. The family wishes to extend a special thank you to Excela Hospice and Passavant Memorial Home for their care and compassion to Stephen. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to All But Furgotten, 70 Carpenter Lane, Irwin, Pa 15642. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com.

 


Paula Ann Helsel

February 18, 2026 |

By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory

It is with profound  sadness that Paula passed away on February 17, 2026, 6 months after being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.  She chose to release her spirit with her daughter by her side, on the Lunar New Year, symbolizing a fresh start for her new state of being.  A devoted and courageous single mother, Paula was dearly loved by her daughter Lisa Bennington (Brad Korinski) and her granddaughter Emma.  She enjoyed gardening and picking mulberries with Emma.  Emma worked alongside her grandmother attempting to fulfill Paula’s dream of growing a corn field and a blueberry patch in our city backyard (it did not work).  We all enjoyed fireworks on her balcony for the 4th of July.  She delighted in trying new recipes with ratatouille being her best.  A consumer of all things “witchy,” she was also an intuitive tarot card reader.

 
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Mary M. Zaken

February 18, 2026 |

By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory

Mary M. Zaken, age 90, of Elizabeth, passed away Sunday, February 15, 2026 in Jefferson Hospital. She was a member of Ascension of Our Lord Byzantine Catholic Church in Clairton where she enjoyed volunteering. She was a former secretary for Clairton High School, a former lunch aide at Elizabeth Elementary School, and a member of GAA of Clairton High School. She was an excellent baker and chef and made the world’s best cabbage rolls. She loved being involved with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Born August 10, 1935 in Clairton, she was a daughter of the late John and Mary (Faron) Kovalyak and wife of the late George Zaken. She is survived by her daughter, Diane (Robert) Zaken Stecik of Forward Twp.; sons, George “Bucky” (Kathleen Moran) Zaken of Farmington, Kevin (Patricia Bucy) Zaken of North Huntingdon and Karl Zaken of Elizabeth; grandchildren, Devon, Paris, Kortnee, Erin, Joshua and Lindsey; great-grandchildren, Kamden and Lyla; brothers, Joseph Kovalyak of Palm Coast, FL and James Kovalyak of Easley, SC; also, nieces and nephews. There will be a funeral liturgy at Ascension of Our Lord Byzantine Catholic Church in Clairton on Saturday, February 21, 2026 at 10 AM with Fr. Chris Burke officiating. EVERYONE PLEASE MEET AT CHURCH. Burial will follow in Ascension Cemetery, Clairton. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Ascension of Our Lord Byzantine Catholic Church, 318 Park Avenue, Clairton, PA 15025. Offer condolences at www.bekavacfuneralhome.com.

 


David Daniel Daley

February 18, 2026 |

By Jaycox-Jaworski Funeral Home - Crematory | Posted in: Jaycox-Jaworski Funeral Home & Crematory

David Daniel Daley, age 61, of McKeesport, died February 16, 2026, at AHN Jefferson Hospital. Born June 2, 1964, in McKeesport, he was the son of the late Daniel and Jean (Rodman) Daley and husband of Danielle (Bishop) Daley for 26 years.

David graduated from McKeesport High School in 1982.  He proudly played on the high school baseball team and continued his passion as a member of the American Legion and Daily News Leagues. His love for the sport was rivaled only by his unwavering support for his favorite teams: the Pittsburgh Steelers, Penguins, and Pirates.
Among the many things David cherished, nothing compared to the memories made with his family. Together, they found joy in the simple pleasures of life: the Sunday concert series at Renzie Park, family vacations in Ocean City, and spirited card games that often filled their home with laughter and good-natured competition.

In addition to his wife Danielle, he is survived by a son, Daniel Daley; and by Jesse and Joey Waggoner, who he raised with unwavering love and devotion; siblings, Cheryl Flohr and John (Linda) Daley, and many nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by a brother, Charles Flohr.

Family and friends will be received at Jaycox-Jaworski Funeral Home & Crematory on Friday, February 20, 2026, from noon until the funeral service at 5 p.m. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.jaycox-jaworskifh.com.
Chris Odasso, Supervisor

 


Pedro Magorra Daracan

February 18, 2026 |

By Willig Funeral Home | Posted in: Willig Funeral Home & Crematory

We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Pedro Magorra Daracan, who left us peacefully at home on February 15, 2026, at the age of 61. Born on November 4, 1964, in Cagayan Valley, Philippines, Pedro was the beloved husband of Glyna Empasis Daracan and the son of the late Juan and Maria (Magorra) Daracan.
Pedro was a proud Marine and served in the Philippines Navy, dedicating his life to serving his country. After his military career, he continued his commitment to public service by working in the Philippines Congress. His recent achievement of becoming a United States resident was a moment of immense pride for him, as he embraced his new home while holding onto his roots.
As a devoted Roman Catholic, Pedro found joy in his faith and was known for being the life of the party. Whether it was belting out karaoke tunes with friends, capturing life's special moments through photography, or simply enjoying time with family, Pedro lived life to the fullest.

 
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James D. Rankin

February 17, 2026 |

By Administrator | Posted in: Obituary

James D. Rankin, age 66, passed on to heaven from his ranch, Highland Rise, in Austin County, Texas, on Feb 17, 2026, from pancreatic cancer.

Born July 8, 1959 in McKeesport, PA, a descendant of the Founders of America, Jim left his historic home and job as editor of the local paper to move to Texas in 1995 to marry his childhood love, Carolyn Shaw (Huebner).

Jim’s first desire was medicine, with a BA in Science from University of Texas, he taught Human Anatomy at Lanier High School for seventeen years, moving on to Round Top/Carmine and retiring from Columbus H.S in 2023.

Jim loved the Lord Jesus and received his ordination as a minister in 2006, forming Rankin Family Ministries, Inc in 2007. He also received his Chaplain commision from Texas University of Theology in 2025, Badge #4995.

 
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Barbara Gail Fulmer

February 17, 2026 |

By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory

Barbara Gail Fulmer, 91, of Clairton passed away on Monday, February 16, 2026. She was born in McKeesport on August 17, 1934 to the late Edward and Gladys (Grice) Hoak. Barbara was a peaceful soul, who lived a long, enduring life. Her quiet strength, spirit and humble demeanor were the navigating force throughout her long and modest life. These tender characteristics and her enduring faith in the Lord gave her the ability and fortitude to successfully nurture nine children.

 
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