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Paula Comunale

July 18, 2023 |

By Administrator | Posted in: Alfieri Funeral Home

Paula Comunale, a beautiful soul, of North Versailles, passed away on Tuesday, July 18, 2023, at the age of 60. Paula was the beloved daughter of Lawrence (Charlette) Comunale and the late Phyllis Comunale.

She was the loving sister of Sharon (late Daniel) White and the late Faye Comunale. In addition to her sister, Sharon, she is survived by stepsiblings Dennis (Ruth) Byers, Rene (Danny) Sampson, Robyn (Mike) Rodriguez and Larry (Lori) Comunale Jr. She is also survived by her special nephew, Joshua (Monica) White, grandnieces, Abby and Ally, numerous aunts and uncles, cousins, friends, caregivers, and Stellar Support Services family.

Paula was full of life and lit up the room. She made her family better by being here on earth. She was an avid Pittsburgh sports fan. Paula was not limited due to her disabilities. She enjoyed crafting and playing video games. She was enjoying Kennywood the day before she passed. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

 
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Andrew J. Coulter

July 18, 2023 |

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

Andrew J. Coulter, age 72, of Murrysville, died July 17, 2023, at UPMC East Hospital.  Born May 9, 1951, in Somerset, he was the son of the late Andrew J. Coulter and Rose (Brownfield) Stash.  Andrew served in the Marine Corps and owned his window cleaning business.  He was active in the McKeesport community, coaching youth baseball and Little Tigers Football teams for many years.  Andrew was also an avid fisherman and enjoyed finding new places to cast his line.

 
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Helen (Kuzma) Piggford

July 18, 2023 |

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

Helen (Kuzma) Piggford, age 91 of Elizabeth Twp., died peacefully at Jefferson Hospital on Monday, July 17, 2023. She passed away encompassed by the love of friends and family and cared for by her daughter Teresa Mae Buchina of Elizabeth Township and her sons James Wayne Piggford III of Simpsonville, SC, and George Alan Piggford, C.S.C., of North Easton, MA. Helen was born at home on Blaine Hill in Elizabeth Township on April 2nd, 1932, to John Kuzma and Theresa (Czizak), and as an infant she received Baptism, Chrismation, and Holy Communion at Ascension Byzantine Catholic Church in Clairton.

The youngest of six children, Helen attended Wylie School and Elizabeth High School, where she graduated with academic distinction. On July 3, 1951, she married (James) Wayne Piggford, Jr., her life-long love. She traveled with him to his U.S. Navy postings in Key West, FL, and New London, CT, before they settled back on Blaine Hill in 1960. Helen was a tireless worker and made a career at the River Division of Consol Energy, where she retired as a financial analyst after more than twenty-five years. Higher education was not available to her in her younger days, so she was especially pleased to earn an associate degree from Penn State Greater Allegheny.

Helen’s 91-year life was characterized by hard work, commitment to her family and community, and a powerful Catholic faith. She was a den mother for Cub Scouts and a member of the Ladies Auxiliary of VFW Post 7632. She was a CCD teacher and was active for many years in Christian Mothers at St. Michael parish, now Sts. Joachim and Anne. Helen enjoyed crocheting afghans for special occasions, she cooked amazing cabbage rolls, she kept in touch with many people by phone, and she had a particular enthusiasm for keeping her checkbook balanced. Helen was devoted to her husband Wayne. She deeply loved her children Teresa, wife of Steven Buchina; Wayne III, husband of Laura; and George, a Roman Catholic priest in the Congregation of Holy Cross. She adored both of her grandsons, who are U.S. Marines: 2ndLt James Connor, husband of TJ, and LCpl Alexander Ryan. Helen is survived by her brother Peter Kuzma of Republic, Michigan, her brother-in-law James Chomas of Elizabeth Township, and her sister-in-law Helen Louise Wivagg of Forward Township.

 
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AnnaMary Sacunas

July 18, 2023 |

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

AnnaMary (Fuller) Sacunas, age 93 of Elizabeth, passed away on Monday, July 17, 2023 at her daughter’s home. Mrs. Sacunas was a member of St. Joachim and Ann Parish, St. Michael’s Church in Elizabeth Twp. and owned and operated Hill Top Dari-Delite for many years with her husband. A member of the Red Hats, she loved to golf, spend time with her friends, and going out to lunch. Born in Garrett on July 12, 1930, she was a daughter of the late Melvin and Helen (Brocht) Fuller and was wife of the late Edward G. Sacunas, who passed away on March 1, 2011. She is survived by her daughter, Lynette (Bruno) DelBianco of Forward Twp.; grandchildren, Blaze (Katie Pergola) LaBrosse of Elizabeth, Drake LaBrosse of Plum, Jared (Kassia) DelBianco of Elizabeth, Brendan (Jillian) DelBianco of Elizabeth, Mariah DelBianco of Forward Twp.; great-grandchildren, Beckham and Brooks LaBrosse, and Magnolia DelBianco; a sister Terrie Boyce of Versailles; and nieces and nephews.

 
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Dean Howard Hofmeister

July 17, 2023 |

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

Dean Howard Hofmeister, 78, of Poteet, TX., passed away Monday, July 17, 2023. He was born in Gilmer, TX on April 25, 1945 and was the son of the late Henry Hofmeister, and the late Grace May (Murray) Shaw. Dean was a US Navy Veteran, and was a big-rig truck driver for 30+ years, as well as a driving trainer for 6 years. He enjoyed riding his motorcycle, hunting, fishing, and going to the gun range for shooting practice.

 
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Janice Sue Stankowicz-Welch

July 17, 2023 |

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

Janice Sue Stankowicz-Welch, 67, of McKeesport, passed away Sunday, July 16, 2023. She was born May 3, 1956 in McKeesport and was the daughter of Anna (Popovich) Stankowicz of North Huntingdon and the late Anthony Stankowicz. She was the wife of the late Thomas Welch. Janice was a 1974 graduate of McKeesport High School and was a Legal Secretary.

 
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Duane James Gantt

July 17, 2023 |

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

Duane James Gantt, 63, of Buena Vista, passed away Friday, July 14, 2023. He was born March 6, 1960 in McKeesport and was the son of the late Durant and Eileen (Craine) Gantt. Duane was a member of New Hope Assembly of God and worked in the Construction Industry.

 
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Patricia "Pat" Dancak Funk

July 16, 2023 |

By Maloy-Schleifer Funeral Home | Posted in: Maloy-Schleifer Funeral Home

Patricia “Pat” Dancak Funk, 83, of White Oak, formerly of West Mifflin, died at home, Saturday, July 15, 2023, surrounded by the love of her children. A 1958 graduate of Duquesne High School, she was a member of St. Thomas the Apostle Parish, St Joseph Church, and a past president of the Confraternity of Christian Mothers. Pat was a former medical secretary in the offices of Dr. Fontana and Dr. Gordon, and employee of Matta’s Florist, G&K Bakery and Pat Catan’s.

As a member and past president of the YWCA Garden Club of McKeesport, she was instrumental in the creation and care of the award-winning Butterfly Garden at U.S. Steel’s Clairton Works, served as a Director for District VII of the Garden Club Federation of Pennsylvania and was a member of the Joyful Bloomers and other local garden clubs. An accomplished floral designer, Pat was generous with her talents and received awards for her creations. She was also a past president of the GFWC Women’s Club of Duquesne.

 
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Mary Ann Prontiker

July 16, 2023 |

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

Mary Ann Prontiker, 85, of Elizabeth, passed away Saturday, July 15, 2023. She was born in McKeesport on February 1, 1938 and was daughter of the late Michael and Mary (Kish) Prontiker. Mary Ann was a McKeesport High School graduate, US Air Force Veteran and stayed within the Reserves for a few years after. She worked many years with Westinghouse as a Secretary before retirement and was a long time member of St. Nicholas Byzantine Catholic Church in McKeesport. In her younger years, she loved traveling, especially to her favorite spot, Aruba! In her later years, she enjoyed her nights out playing bingo, and loved to go shopping.

 
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DeVon Anthony Alexander

July 16, 2023 |

By Administrator | Posted in: Robert A. Waters Funeral Home

DeVon Anthony Alexander, 33, of Coraopolis, was born September 8, 1989, in McKeesport, PA. He was the beloved son of Paul and the late Aurelia (Foster) Alexander.

DeVon grew up in McKeesport and was the youngest of five siblings. He attended and graduated from McKeesport High School. After graduation, he furthered his education at Point Park University and received a bachelor’s degree in business management. He was a Basketball Coach and a Small Business Owner, currently owning a Game Room and previously owned a Salon & Barber Shop.

Devon was highly ranked in basketball in both high school and college. He loved basketball. He loved playing basketball, watching basketball, and helping kids perfect their basketball skills. He has coached hundreds of youths including traveling teams with DAP2KK that traveled around the country to compete against the best of the best. He was still actively playing in several local leagues, including No Smoke in Pittsburgh.

 
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Elizabeth "Betty" C. Fisher

July 15, 2023 |

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

Elizabeth "Betty" C. Fisher, 87, of Irwin formerly of Edgewood, passed away, Saturday, July 15, 2023 at Walden's View, North Huntingdon. She was born September 11, 1935 in Pittsburgh, a daughter of the late Paul and Rose (Sangl) Kelly. Betty was a homemaker and raised six children and was the bookkeeper for E.R & D.J. Fisher Construction. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Donald Fisher; son-in-law, Francis Michaux; brothers, Terrance and Kenneth Kelly. She is survived by her sons, Donald Jr. (Catherine), Ronald (Barbara), Jeffrey (Tina) and Kevin (Anna); daughters, Susan Fisher her dedicated caregiver and Christine Michaux; sister, Paula (Gerald) Logue; grandchildren, Laura (Adam), Amy, Aileen, Ryan, Domenic (Brenda), Anna (Grant), Nicole (Adam), Morgan (James), Carly, Madison, Sarah, Katie, Anna, Kevin; and 11 great-grandchildren. Services are private. Arrangements made by James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon, PA 15642. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com

 


Nancy M. Thomas

July 15, 2023 |

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

Nancy M. Thomas, 86, of North Huntingdon, passed away Friday, July 14, 2023 at UPMC East, Monroeville.  She was born May 12, 1937 in North Braddock, a daughter of the late Anthony and Mary (Shuble) Rozanec.  Nancy was a founding member of St. Agnes Church and active with Christian Mothers.  She volunteered countless hours in St. Agnes School cafeteria and was a Girl Scout Leader.  After moving to Virginia in the '80's she was an active member of Christ the Redeemer Parish in Sterling, VA and was very faith driven.  Nancy was a caring and compassionate woman and an inspiration to us all.  She had patience of a saint and had enough love in her heart for every person on earth.  Family meant everything to her, always putting their needs before her own and was the glue of the family giving hugs that held everyone together.  She loved cooking and baking life changing pies, spending time with her family, reading, working puzzles and gardening.

 
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Sophie Balawajder

July 14, 2023 |

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

Sophie Balawajder, age 95, of Elizabeth Twp., died peacefully at home on July 13, 2023.  Born April 8, 1928, in Wilmerding, PA, she was the daughter of the late Michael and Apolonia (Szczypek) Lorenc and wife of the late Bruno Balawajder, to whom she was married for 44 years.  Sophie was a 67-year member of St. Mary of Częstochowa Church, now Mary, Mother of God Parish, Corpus Christi Church, in McKeesport, and was a past President of the Confraternity of Christian Mothers.  She had a love of family and friends, her faith, and her Polish heritage.  Her activities included ceramics, quilting, volunteering for the church, and baking.  Her quilts are cherished keepsakes for all her family members.  Many of the family celebrations had her cookies on the Cookie Table.  The family would like to thank everyone who made her years later in life comfortable by stopping by, making a phone call, or sending a birthday card.  Her long-term friends, known as the “Church Ladies,” always made her day, as well as her many nieces and nephews.  Her caregivers also are to be recognized for the comfort they provided.

 
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Jeffrey Joseph "Jeff" Holub

July 14, 2023 |

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

Jeffrey Joseph "Jeff" Holub, 62, of McKeesport, passed away Monday, July 10, 2023. He was  born May 7, 1961 in McKeesport an was the son of the late John J. and Rita Mae (Gallagher) Holub.  Jeff owned and operated JJH Landscaping since 1979, and did many landscaping jobs over the years.  He is survived by his brother, Jordan D. Holub of McKeesport, an aunt, an uncle and cousins.  In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, John Bradley "JB" Holub, who passed away June 21, 2016. There was no visitation. Private burial took place at St. Joseph Cemetery in North Versailles on Thursday, July 13, 2023.  Arrangements are by the Gilbert Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 6028 Smithfield Street, Boston, Elizabeth Township.  Condolences may be made at GilbertFuneralHomeandCrematory.com

 


Patricia J. Reola

July 13, 2023 |

By Administrator | Posted in: James F. Kutch Funeral Home - Crematory

Patricia J. Reola, age 83, passed away on July 8, 2023. She is survived by her two daughters, Pamela Haubrick (Edward), and Cheryl Wilson (Robert), and two grandchildren who she loved and adored, Nicole Javorski and Thomas Javorski (Jenna) along with 4 great grandpuppies; brother, Paul Yurigan; and nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Reola; and parents, Anna and Paul Yurigan. No visitation, service private.  James F. Kutch Funeral Homes & Crematory 433 Lincoln Highway East McKeesport, PA 15035 (412) 823-4054  Please leave condolences at the website.