October 23, 2023 |
By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory

Rev. William D. Heaton, age 98 of Greenock, passed away on Monday, October 23, 2023 in UPMC Mercy Hospital, Pittsburgh. Born August 31, 1925 in Osceola Mills, he was a son of the late Harry T. and Mary Grace (Burns) Heaton. He is survived by his loving wife, Ella Louise (Allen) Heaton, and his nieces and nephews. Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother Robert E. Heaton.
William served in the South Pacific Theater of Operations during World War II with the 8th Fighter Control Squadron of the 5th Army Air Corps. Following the war, he attended Robert Morris University, earning a degree in business administration and accounting. While employed by the Crawford Furniture Manufacturing Corp. at their New Bethlehem plant, he attended the New Bethlehem First Methodist Church where he accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior and received his call into full-time Christian ministry. While residing in New Bethlehem, William served on the Colonel Drake Council of the Boy Scouts of America.
William graduated from Asbury University in Wilmore, KY with a Bachelor of Arts degree in philosophy and religion. He then attended Asbury Theological Seminary in Wilmore from one year, then went on to finish his theological education at Wesley Theological Seminary in Washington, DC.
While in Kentucky, William served as pastor of the Hazel Green Charge of the Methodist Church in the mountains of eastern part of the state. He then served the Owenton First United Methodist Church in Owenton, KY. Also at that time he conducted revival services in Kentucky and Ohio. While there, he also pursued studies in evangelism with the Southeastern Jurisdiction of the United Methodist Church.
Returning to the Western Pennsylvania Conference, he served churches at the Monongahela Circuit, the Curllsville Charge, the Mary S. Brown United Methodist Church in Pittsburgh, the Highland Avenue United Methodist Church in Pitcarin, the Jenny Lind/Shoemaker United Methodist Churches in McKeesport, and the McKeesport Hope/Belle Chapel United Methodist Churches. William retired from the active ministry in June of 1992.
While a member of the Western Pennsylvania Conference, he served as Vice Chairman of the Conference Board of Stewardship and on the former Pittsburgh East Board of Evangelism, and also served on several sub-district offices. Following retirement, William served the Highland Grove United Methodist Church in McKeesport as interim pastor then as associate pastor at the First United Methodist Church of McKeesport.
Following his years of pastoral ministry, he was employed by the Country Meadows Retirement Center at the South Hills Campus in Pittsburgh as chaplain of their Alzheimer’s unit. He was then hired by UPMC McKeesport as their Director of the Pastoral Care Department. That position was held until his 80th birthday when he and his wife Ella decided to (as Bill put it his eloquent fashion) “enjoy the remainder of life’s journey at a retired pace conducive to retired persons.” William and Ella attended Central Highlands Community Methodist Church.
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October 23, 2023 |
By Maloy-Schleifer Funeral Home | Posted in: Maloy-Schleifer Funeral Home

Barbara A. Andres, age 86, of West Mifflin, passed away on Monday, October 23, 2023, at Jefferson Hills Rehabilitation & Wellness Center. Born in Pittsburgh on September, 25, 1937, she was a retired secretary at the West Mifflin Middle School and West Mifflin High School and a member of St. Thomas the Apostle Parish-St. Agnes Church. She was the wife of the late James Andres and mother of the late James K. Kleist and the late Mark S. Kleist. She is the grandmother of Courtney Kleist of West Mifflin and Nick Kleist of West Mifflin; great grandmother of Sage Hone; and sister of the late Steve Gazda. There will be No Visitation. A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, October 27, 2023, at St. Agnes Church, at 10:00 a.m., with Rev. Dan Sweeney, officiating. A private burial will take place at Jefferson Memorial Park. Arrangements entrusted to the MALOY-SCHLEIFER FUNERAL HOME, INC., 915 KENNEDY AVE., DUQUESNE, 412-466-3300, WILLIAM B. SCHLEIFER, SUPERVISOR, WILLIAM BRIAN SCHLEIFER, FUNERAL DIRECTOR.
October 23, 2023 |
By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory

Diane L. Dougherty, age 67, of Monongahela, passed away on Saturday, October 21, 2023 at home. She retired as a Home Health Care Aide for CommunityLife in McKeesport. She was a former secretary at the Clairton Works Credit Union, McHolme Construction in Elizabeth and Marraccini's in Elizabeth, and was a member of many social clubs in the Mon Valley area. Born September 6, 1956 in McKeesport, she was a daughter of the late Robert L. and Lois Jean (McKown) Dougherty. She is survived by her long-time companion, Arthur South; siblings, Robert L. (Judy) Dougherty of Belle Vernon, Paul (Ruth) Dougherty of Greenock, Linda (Tom) Russum of Forward Twp., Penny Edwards of South Huntingdon and JoAnn (Will) Wright of Herndon, VA; also, many nieces and nephews. A Memorial Service will take place at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105. Arrangements by the Paul E. Bekavac Funeral Home, Elizabeth. Offer condolences at
www.bekavacfuneralhome.com.
October 23, 2023 |
By Wojciechowski Funeral Home | Posted in: Wojciechowski Funeral Home

Raymond D. Graboski, 91 of Glassport died Oct. 22, 2023. He is the son of the late Michael and Mary (Wise) Graboski and beloved husband, of 66 years, of Dorothy (Kwiatkowski) Graboski. He is survived by his daughters Lynn (Robert) Barnes and Laurie (Jack Goblick) Graboski; grandsons Robert (Katie) Barnes and Michael Barnes; great grandchildren Roman and Elia Barnes; also nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his son Raymond Graboski and siblings Emily Wisneski, Al Graboski, Anthony Graboski, Loretta Bodenschatz and Regis Graboski. Ray was a member of St. Joachim & Anne Parish, St. Vincent DePaul Society and served in the US Army Korean War. He was a PGA golf professional at Mon Valley Country Club for 35 years and after retiring worked with Pittsburgh Youth Golf Foundation. Friends received at the Wojciechowski Funeral Home, Glassport on Fri. from 9 to 10 am, at which time a funeral mass will be held at Queen of the Rosary Church. Interment following Round Hill Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to either Little Sisters of the Poor, 1028 Benton Ave., Pittsburgh Pa 15212 or The Intersection, Inc., P.O. Box 827, McKeesport Pa 15134.
October 22, 2023 |
By Willig Funeral Home | Posted in: Willig Funeral Home & Crematory
Lucy I. Hammerstrom, age 87, of McKeesport, died October 20, 2023, at Kane Community Living Center. Born September 16, 1936, in McKeesport, she was the daughter of the late Charles and Ida ( Dispenza ) Rizzo and the wife of the late John B. Hammerstrom.
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October 21, 2023 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Virginia Mary "Ginny" Kapisak, aka "MiMi," 79, of Elizabeth Township, passed away Thursday, October 19, 2023. She was born in McKeesport on October 22, 1943 and was the daughter to the late Paul Joseph and Eugenia Grace (Milkowski) Straker. She was the loving wife of 30+ years to the late Dennis Andrew Kapisak, Sr., before his passing in August 2001. Ginny had many jobs throughout her life. During her younger years, she became a licensed cosmetologist and had her own Beauty Salon in McKeesport. She was a waitress for a few years, until her and her husband, Dennis, opened their own catering business in the Pleasant Hills area - Jason's Catering. She enjoyed reading, going for walks and watching the Pittsburgh Steelers. She was a long time member of Sts. Joachim & Anne Parish - St. Michael's Church and was even a part of a few bible study groups too.
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October 20, 2023 |
By Administrator | Posted in: Obituary
Daniel G. Donahoe, 53, of Dravosburg, passed away on Wednesday, October 18, 2023 at his home.
Born December 17, 1969 in McKeesport, he was the son of the late George J. and A. Jane (Gleason) Donahoe.
Daniel was employed at Vision Benefits of America. He enjoyed bowling, having bowled three 300 games, and softball, and was a great pitcher. An avid Pittsburgh sports fan, he also enjoyed playing pinochle, and was a great handyman, always willing to lend a helping hand.
Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Debra Wilson.
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October 20, 2023 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home

Rita H. Crawford, 89, of North Huntingdon, passed away Thursday, October 19, 2023 at Transitions, North Huntingdon. She was born September 22, 1934 in Pittsburgh, a daughter of the late John and Helen (Novosielski) Wisniewski. Rita was a self-employed secretary and a member of Immaculate Conception Church. She enjoyed reading, visiting the library and spending time with her family. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her first husband, Robert E. Lees, second husband, Jack Crawford, and granddaughter, Connie Brugnoli. She is survived by her sons, John Henry Lees and his wife, Debbie, Robert E. Lees Jr. and his wife, Sue; daughters, Veronica Brugnoli, Laureen Eichelberger and her husband, Steve; 12 grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren. Services are private. Arrangements made by James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon, PA 15642. Memorials may be made to the Norwin Public Library in memory of Rita. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
October 19, 2023 |
By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory

Walter B. Kozlowski, age 68 of McKeesport, passed away on Wednesday, October 18, 2023 in Atlantic General Hospital, Berlin, MD. Born December 22, 1954 in Washington, PA, he was a son of the late Henry and Betty (O'Keefe) Kozlowski. A graduate of LaRoche College, Walter worked as a project manager for information systems for UPMC and also worked as a registered radiology technician and as a project manager for McKesson Co. of Pittsburgh. In his spare time, he enjoyed Jeeps, Legos, and Hallmark movies. Walter is survived by his wife of 46 years Cathy (Cole) Kozlowski; his twin sons Zachary Kozlowski of North Versailles and Leo (Lindsey) Kozlowski of Pittsburgh; his siblings Barbara (Bernard) Benson and Henry and Timothy Kozlowski; and also nieces and nephews.
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October 19, 2023 |
By Jaycox-Jaworski Funeral Home - Crematory | Posted in: Jaycox-Jaworski Funeral Home & Crematory
Bonita "Bonnie" Zaucha, age 76, of Penn, died Ocotber 16, 2023, at UPMC Presbyterian Hospital. Born September 21, 1947, in Pittsburgh, she was the daughter of the late Alex G. and Glayds (Weyman) Soltez and the wife of the late Thomas Zaucha. Bonnie was an active member of Holy Family Polish National Catholic Church and was a member of the Adoration Society, a Sunday School Teacher, a Lector, and on the Parish Council. She enjoyed traveling and playing card games with her family and friends. Bonnie cared deeply for animals, especially neighborhood cats and her own.
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October 19, 2023 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Gerald Eugnene "Jerry" Burkett, 91, of Port Vue passed away Wednesday, October 18, 2023. He was born in McKeesport on May 18, 1932 and was the son to the late Carl and Mildred (Davis) Burkett. Jerry worked many years, holding many jobs within US Steel at the National Tube. He worked as a 'Hot Baller' on the pouring floor, he worked in the steel & carpenter's shop, and even worked maintenance for awhile. He was an avid cyclist. He met many amazing friends on the bike trail, and even was part of a group called the "Slow Spokes." He is survived by his sister, Lona Burkett of White Oak, and many great friends, including his closest friend, Charles Jeffrey Lee of Rostraver Township. There is no visitation at this time. Arrangements are by the Gilbert Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc. 6028 Smithfield Street, Boston, Elizabeth Township. (412) 751-5000 Drew J. Gilbert, director. Funeral Service & Inurnment will be held at the Mount Vernon Cemetery - Garden Mausoleum on Tuesday, October 24, 2023 at 10:00 am. (Please meet at the cemetery). Condolences can be made at Gilbertfuneralhomeandcrematory.com
October 19, 2023 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Joanne Johnson, 70, of Elizabeth Township, passed away Monday, October 16, 2023. She was born November 20, 1952 in Blythedale and was the daughter of the late William George and Bena Theresa (Frabizio) Brubaker. She was a 1970 graduate of Elizabeth Forward High School and was a homemaker.
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October 19, 2023 |
By Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory
Maynard James Hansen, of Elizabeth Township, passed peacefully in his sleep on October 17, 2023
after a brief illness at the age of 88. He was born on May 1, 1935, in Lakefield, Minnesota, to Olga
Wilhelmina Margareta (Wold) and Hans J. Hansen.
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October 19, 2023 |
By James W. Shirley Funeral Home Inc. | Posted in: James W. Shirley Funeral Home

Frank E. Johnson III, 74, of North Huntingdon, passed away peacefully at his home on Thursday, October 19, 2023. He was born September 29, 1949 in Greensburg, a son of the late Frank Johnson Jr. and Arvilla Mae (Williams) Johnson. Prior to his retirement, Frank was an engineer for Extrude Hone and enjoyed working crossword puzzles and jigsaw puzzles. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Carolyn "Nazz" Johnson. He is survived by his son, Frank Johnson IV and his wife, Maria; daughter, Pam Yurcisin and her husband, Kary; brother, Paul Johnson (Rebecca); sister, Carol Hart (Don); grandchildren, Melanie (Robert) Demorest, Tori (Dustin) Bartlow, Natalie (Alex) Impink, Tyler Yurcisin and Aaron Johnson; great-grandchildren, Brock, Karsyn, Declan, Axel, Easton, Ayla and Kruz. The family wishes to extend gratitude to 365 Hospice, especially Melissa, Shannon, Patty and Ashley. Friends will be received from 2-4 & 6-8 p.m. on Monday at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon, PA 15642. A funeral service will take place on Tuesday at 10 a.m. in the funeral home chapel. Interment to follow in Westmoreland County Memorial Park. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com
October 19, 2023 |
By Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory | Posted in: Bekavac Funeral Home and Crematory
Joan G. (Guiher) Wise, age 90, of Forward Twp., passed away on Wednesday, October 18, 2023 at home. She was a member of Central Highlands Community United Methodist Church in Elizabeth Twp. A 1950 graduate of Bethel High School and a 1954 graduate of Waynesburg University, she was a former teacher in the Elizabeth Forward School District. She enjoyed square dancing, gardening and knitting. Born January 28, 1933 in Waynesburg, she was a daughter of the late Frank T. and Elizabeth (Galbraith) Guiher. She is survived by her husband of 69 years, Thomas D. Wise; children, Jennifer Donaldson of Buena Vista, Beth (the late Kevin) Blanc of Bethel Park and Thomas (Maria) Wise of Chalfont; grandchildren, Crystal and Kelly Donaldson, Jeffrey (Brandy) Blanc, Amy Blanc, Blake (Ashley) Wise and Lauren Wise; six great-grandchildren; and brother, Frank Guiher of Cincinnati, OH. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by brother, William Guiher. Friends will be received in the Paul E. Bekavac Funeral Home, 221 North Second Avenue, Elizabeth on Friday, October 20, 2023 from 2 PM until the time of service at 4 PM in the funeral home chapel with the Rev. Adam Stump officiating. Private burial will be in Jefferson Memorial Park in Pleasant Hills. Memorial contributions may be made to Central Highlands Community United Methodist Church, 100 Timothy Drive, Elizabeth, PA 15037. Offer condolences at www.bekavacfuneralhome.com

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