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Patricia A. Young

February 03, 2025 |

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

Patricia A. (Metzler) Young, age 76, of Elizabeth Twp., passed away on Friday, January 31, 2025, at Jefferson Hospital. She began her career at US Steel where she worked as a typist file clerk and retired as a bookkeeper from Fayco Rentals Inc. in Uniontown. An avid bowler, she was a co-founder and ran the Over and Under the Hill Gang Bowling League for more than 33 years at 51 Lanes, now AMF Bowling in Rostraver Township. She was a Girl Scout troop leader in Elizabeth Twp., and enjoyed baking, cooking, and gardening with her husband. Born in West Mifflin on April 19, 1948, she was a daughter of the late Charles T. and Alice M. (Hallas) Metzler. Left to cherish her memory include her husband of 54 years, Robert M. Young; two children, Timothy (Christine) Young of Bay City, MI, and Summer (Marty) Zueger of Perryopolis; a granddaughter, Alana Young; also, nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her siblings, Ray, Alice and Duane. No viewing or services are planned. Memorial contributions can be made to the American Cancer Society, PO Box 1640, Hagerstown, MD 21741. Arrangements by the Paul E. Bekavac Funeral Home, Elizabeth. Offer condolences at www.bekavacfuneralhome.com.

 


Yolanda R. Wood

February 03, 2025 |

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

Yolanda R. "Corky" Wood, age 96, of White Oak, died at home on January 28, 2025. Born January 4, 1929, in Boston, PA, she was the daughter of the late Alex and Angelina (Fornaro) Roma and wife of the late Wallace L. "Woody" Wood. She and Woody were married for almost 60 years from August 3, 1951 to his death on January 31, 2011.  Her spirit was as bright as the sun, and she found immense happiness in swimming and basking in warm sunlight, often spending cherished moments at the Ligonier Country Inn, Ligonier Beach, Rainbow Gardens, and the White Oak pool. She had a deep love for her dogs, which were cherished companions throughout her life.  Her passion for adventure led to many memorable vacations, particularly to the sandy shores of Wildwood, NJ, where laughter echoed against the waves. Throughout her life, she enjoyed trips to places like Penn State, New York, and cross country road trips with Woody, experiences that filled her heart with joy and created lasting memories. She also enjoyed dancing and bowling.

 
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Kenneth R. Peairs

February 03, 2025 |

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

Kenneth R. Peairs, age 92, of Duquesne, passed away Saturday, February 1, 2025 surrounded by his family at Select Specialty Hospital in Pittsburgh. An Army veteran of the Korean War, he retired as a safety supervisor at Hercules Jefferson Plant in Jefferson Hills. He was a member of St. Thomas the Apostle Parish in Duquesne and VFW Post 803 in Clairton. He enjoyed hunting, golfing and playing cards with his friends, but most of all spending time with his family. Born September 18, 1932 in McKeesport, he was the son of the late Kenneth H. and Lillian B. (Elesic) Peairs. He is survived by his loving wife of 68 years, Louise M. (Long) Peairs; daughters, Karen Peairs of Pittsburgh and Kristine “Tina” (Tom) Connelly of Elizabeth Twp.; grandchildren, Christopher (Kasey) Connelly, Jordan (Gregory) Spiker and Sean Peairs Connelly; Pappy Moose to Riley, Austin and Caden; also, nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by son, Donald “P.J.” Peairs. Friends will be received in the Paul E. Bekavac Funeral Home, 221 North Second Avenue, Elizabeth, on Wednesday, February 5, 2025 from 2-7 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be Thursday, February 6, 2025 at 10 AM at St. Joseph Church in Duquesne with Rev. Dan D’Antonio officiating. Burial will be in St. Joseph Cemetery in West Mifflin. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or a charity of one’s choice. Offer condolences at www.bekavacfuneralhome.com.

 


Kimberly Ann Hammerstrom

February 03, 2025 |

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

Kimberly Ann Hammerstrom, age 58, of McKeesport, died at home on January 27, 2025. Born November 24, 1966, in McKeesport, she was the daughter of the late Robert E. and Dolores (Cieslewicz) Patton.

 
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Kenneth "Bones" Watson

February 02, 2025 |

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

Kenneth "Bones" Watson, age 63 of North Huntingdon, passed away on February 1, 2025. He was born on January 6, 1962 in Pittsburgh, a son of the late Edward Watson and Victoria Jagiello Watson. Ken was a graduate of Norwin High School in the class of 1980. Prior to his retirement, he was employed by Norwin Manufacturing as a machinist. Ken was a member of the Fairmont Hahntown Volunteer Fire Department where he was in charge of the pool league, and he was also a member of the Italian Miner's Society. He also loved to golf and hunt. Ken is survived by his son Quentin Watson, two brothers Edward Jr. (and wife Michelle) and Thomas Watson, four sisters Patricia Palmer (and husband William), Karen Watson, Roberta McDonald (and husband John Sr.), and Donna McDonald (and husband Joel), and numerous nieces and nephews. Friends will be received at the James W. Shirley Funeral Home, 176 Clay Pike, North Huntingdon, on Wednesday from 4-6 PM. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be donated to Ken's family through the funeral home website. www.shirleyfuneralhome.com

 


Maria Skezas

February 01, 2025 |

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

Maria Skezas, age 88, of White Oak, PA, passed away peacefully with family by her side on Friday, January 31, 2025. She was born June 4, 1936, in the village of Neohorion on the island of Chios, Greece. She is the daughter of the late Nicholas and Athena Skarlis Georgaroudis, and the beloved wife of the late William J. Skezas. After marrying William in 1958, Maria came to America speaking only Greek. She attended night classes to learn the English language and gained her American Citizenship. She enjoyed many return trips to her cherished fatherland, visiting family and old friends. She was especially fond of spending time at the seaside family cottage, where she often fished with her parents and swam in the beautiful blue waters of the Aegean Sea.

 
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Donald Ray Smith

February 01, 2025 |

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

Donald Ray Smith, 77, of Elizabeth Township, passed away peacefully on Friday, January 31, 2025. He was born on March 1, 1947 in McKeesport and was the son of the late Jack Elroy and Evelyn Pearl Smith. Donald was a mechanic by trade and worked for many years at Schumann's Front End. He spent time building cars with his sons, he especially enjoyed muscle cars and American Motors. He also enjoyed drag racing these cars. He was an all around handyman that could fix anything. Donald was also known to play the Harmonica with his Gospel and Blue Grass band, The Wash House Band, as well as playing with his friend, Jim Relja. He lived his life exactly the way he wanted to.

 
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Helen Jeannette Zeigler Green

February 01, 2025 |

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

Helen Jeannette Zeigler Green, age 83, passed away on Friday, January 31, 2025 at home.  She was born to the late Heardie Lee and Mary Alice (Sellers) Zeigler on June 14, 1941 in Birmingham, Alabama.  At the age of three and a half, she moved with her family to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.  At the age of 12, she joined the Victory Baptist Church on the Northside of Pittsburgh where she was involved with all the children and youth groups.  She was educated by the Pittsburgh Public School system.  She served four years in the United States Navy.  She then joined the staff of the University of Pittsburgh, School of Dental Medicine, where she retired after 40 years of service.  She most recently belonged to the Garden City United Methodist Church of Monroeville.  She was married to the late Jesse Green and of this union had a son, Jason Simon Green.  In addition to Jason (Summer Pendro, Goddaughter Alyssa Shields) Green, she leaves to mourn; granddaughter Miabella Green, nephew Todd (Brenda) Roberts and their daughter, Kendall of Pittsburgh, godchildren Mike, Tim and Scott Lewis and a host of extended family, cousins and friends.  Along with her husband she was preceded in death by stepdaughter Lisa M. Green Dennis, sister, Ella Roberts, and stepbrother, Earl (late Emma) Marvin. 

Visitation will be held on Thursday, February 6, 2025 from 4-8 pm and on Friday, February 7 from 10-11 am at the MALOY-SCHLEIFER FUNERAL HOME, INC., 915 KENNEDY AVE., DUQUESNE, 15110, 412-466-3300, WILLIAM B. SCHLEIFER, SUPERVISOR, WILLIAM BRIAN SCHLEIFER, FUNERAL DIRECTOR, where her Homegoing Service will be held at 11 am. with Reverend John Cook officiating. Burial with Military Honors will be held at Restland Cemetery.

The Homegoing Service and Cemetery Military Honors will be live-streamed on the funeral home website https://www.maloy-schleiferfuneralhome.com/.

 


Ronald P. Wawrzeniak

February 01, 2025 |

By Wojciechowski Funeral Home | Posted in: Wojciechowski Funeral Home

 

Ronald Paul Wawrzeniak, 71, of Glassport, Pennsylvania, passed away on January 31, 2025. Born on June 30, 1953, at McKeesport Hospital, Ron grew up in Glassport, where he built a life filled with music, sports, and a deep love for family.  Ron was predeceased by his parents, Ted and Helen Wawrzeniak. He is survived by his twin brother, Rick Wawrzeniak of Glassport, PA; brother, Bernie Wawrzeniak of Alexandria, VA; sister, Judy Ann Wawrzeniak of Sacramento, CA; nieces, Amanda Napiecek of Wexford, PA and Natalie Wawrzeniak of Winter Garden, FL; nephew, Andrew Wawrzeniak of Mt. Dora, FL; grandniece, Cecilia Napiecek; and grandnephew, Vincent Napiecek.  In his early years, Ron shared his musical talents as the lead accordion player in a band with his brothers, The Brothers Three. He was also a gifted athlete, excelling as a pitcher in Glassport’s Little League and Pony League. A proud graduate of Serra High School, Class of 1971, he carried his love of baseball throughout his life. Family legend even suggests he was once scouted by the Phillies. Whether playing golf, fishing, or cheering for his beloved Pittsburgh Pirates, Ron had a passion for sports—especially rooting for the underdog.  Despite facing health challenges, Ron remained resilient, kind, and endlessly curious. His love for family and the cherished memories of his early years sustained him, along with his deep faith. Though he never traveled far from home, he took great interest in the world beyond, especially the excitement of baseball’s spring training in Florida.  Ron will be remembered for his warm heart, unwavering love for his family, and the gentle kindness he extended to those around him. His family deeply appreciates the dedication of the nurses and medical professionals who cared for him over the years.  A memorial service will be held at a future time. Friends will be received at the Wojciechowski Funeral Home, Glassport on Sunday from 1 to3.  May he rest in peace, forever loved and remembered.

 


Beverly M. Linn

January 31, 2025 |

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

Beverly M. Linn, age 79, of North Versailles, passed on January 30, 2025, at Kane Community Living Center in Glen Hazel. Born June 22, 1945, in Tarentum, she was the daughter of the late Howard and Stella (Horzempa) Reesman and wife of Martin Linn.  Beverly dedicated over 20 years of her professional life to J.C. Penney, where she served as a manager, cultivating relationships with her team and customers. She also brought compassion to her roles in data entry with visiting nurses, always putting the needs of others first.  Beverly, an avid reader and pianist, found joy and solace in the arts. She cherished losing herself in the pages of a good book. Her love for music echoed through the halls of her home, offering a soundtrack to her life that will be fondly remembered by her loved ones. She was a proud grandmother whose greatest joy came from spending time with her grandchildren.  Beverly embraced the beauty of the world through her travels with her husband Marty. She embarked on many memorable journeys, taking bus trips through the enchanting north and southwest, savoring the stunning landscapes of wine country on the west coast. She loved the thrill of train travel, making memories on routes to Nashville and New Orleans, and exploring new horizons on cruises to Alaska and along the St. Lawrence River.

 
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Lujuan Lee Harper

January 31, 2025 |

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

Lujuan Harper, 46, of Homestead, PA, died on January, 28, 2025. Born March, 23, 1978, in UPMC Magee-Women's Hospital, he was the son of the late Luther Jr. and Melissa (Edmonds) Harper.
Lujuan was well known around Homestead, PA and was known by many in the community and his former classmates at Steel Valley High School.  He loved music, especially R&B and hip-hop. He liked shopping and was willing to help anyone. Lujuan will be remembered as a quiet, gentle, sweet soul who had immense love for his family.

 
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Bruce M. Brinkos

January 31, 2025 |

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

Bruce M. Brinkos, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on January 30, 2025, at the age of 82. Born on June 6, 1942, in McKeesport, Pennsylvania, to John and Anna (Davis) Brinkos, Bruce lived a life defined by faith, hard work, dedication, and an unshakable loyalty to those whom he loved.

A standout athlete, Bruce earned a four-year scholarship for football at the University of Miami in Florida, where he earned All-American honors as a guard and linebacker. His dominance on the field began in high school, where he was also named an All-American. He played with grit, intelligence, and heart—traits that carried into every aspect of his life.

Bruce was a man who knew the value of an honest day’s work. He spent his career dedicated to his community, working as a teacher and assistant football coach in the McKeesport Area School District, as a Yard Master for the Union Railroad, and ultimately as a Foreman on the Pennsylvania Turnpike for 20 years. He was beloved by the men who worked with him—respected not just for his leadership but for the fairness, humor, and quiet strength he brought to the job every day.

Beyond his career, Bruce was deeply committed to public service. He served as a Board Member for the McKeesport Area School District for 16 years, striving to improve education and provide opportunities for local students. He was also active in local politics in Allegheny County for many years, believing in the power of civic engagement to make a difference in people’s lives. His faith was central to his life, and he was an active member of St. Angela Merici Roman Catholic Church, where he served as an usher and with his wife as an instructor for baptism and marriage preparation. His service to the Community and Church was a reflection of his deep gratitude for the opportunities he had been given and his desire to help others achieve their greatest potential.

 
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Betty Mitchell

January 31, 2025 |

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

Betty Mitchell, age 99, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and aunt, passed away peacefully in her sleep on January 23, 2025 in the home she shared in Pittsburgh with her daughter and son-in-law, Tina and John Stare. She was born Betty Marie Kline on February 12, 1925 in Langdondale, PA to Charles Wesley Kline and Mary Kushto Kline. She was a graduate of Broad Top High School. She married Reid Joshua Mitchell on July 27, 1945 in Baltimore, MD where she worked for Social Security. Throughout their marriage they lived in Trenton, NJ; Alexandria, VA; Monroe, CT; and lastly Harrisburg, PA.  They were married for 50 years until Reid’s passing in April of 1996. She was also preceded in death by her parents; 4 siblings: Theda, Willard, Loretta and Bill; and her daughter-in-law, Carol.  She is survived by her four children: Karen (Bud) Fini of Wilmington, DE; Reid (Cindi) of Griswold, CT; Tina (John) Stare of Elizabeth Township, PA; and Brad (Carol) of Carlisle, PA.  She is also survived by 8 grandchildren: Karen’s children, Lisa and Joe; Reid’s children, Gabriel, Jeffrey and Melissa; and Tina’s children, Ryan, Evan and Shannon.  She also had 12 great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. Betty had the most generous and loving heart and touched many lives with her sweet presence and beautiful smile. She loved all of her family dearly and they were the joy of her life.

 
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Stacy R. "Peanut" Ryan

January 31, 2025 |

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

Stacy R. "Peanut" Ryan, age 56 of Smithton, passed away on Sunday, Janaury 26, 2025 in Excela Westmoreland Hospital, Greensburg.  Born June 20, 1968, Stacy worked as a home health aide for many years.  She was an animal lover and volunteer with the Westmoreland County Humane Society.  She also loved the outdoors and nature, going camping and holding bonfires.  Stacy will be loved and missed very much by all who knew her.  She is survived by her husband Richard Ryan, her step-daughter Melissa (Sean Snyder) Ryan of Wexford, her father and mother-in-law Richard and Nancy Ryan of Port Vue, her sister-in-law Patty (Chris) Kaylor of Port Vue, her aunt Beverly Gelsdorf of Youngwood, and many friends and other extended family. She was preceded in death by her parents Stephen and Sandra (Cox) Smartnick; and sisters Susanne and Sherri.

 
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Debra Lee Szucs

January 30, 2025 |

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

Debra Lee Szucs, age 69 of White Oak, passed away at her sister's home on Wednesday, January 29, 2025.  Born December 8, 1955 in McKeesport, she was a daughter of the late Earl and Wilma (Grdich) Szucs.  A member of the Class of 1974 of McKeesport High School, Debra worked for both McKeesport National Bank and McKeesport Hospital.  She is survived by her sister Donna (Jeff Dainty) Miladinovich of White Oak, her nephew and godson Christopher (Lauren) Miladinovich, her caregiver and friend Jenn, and many cousins, aunts, and uncles. 

 
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