Miscellaneous Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania
Obituaries - 1999

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CHRISTINE VALORE BAIR
Christine (Tina) Valore Bair, 45, of RD8 Greensburg, a devoted wife and mother, died Saturday, Nov. 13, 1999, at her home, after a courageous six-year battle with cancer. She was born in Greensburg, Dec. 4, 1953, and was the daughter of Marie Garola Valore of Forbes Road and the late Domenick A. Valore Jr. She was a graduate of Greensburg Salem High School, class of 1972, and a member of St. Benedict Catholic Church in Marguerite. In addition to her father, she was preceded in death by her mother-in-law, Sarah Newmyer Bair. In addition to her mother, she is survived by her loving husband, Ned Bair; her three children, Nathan, Shane and Patrick, all at home; her brother, Domenick A. Valore III and wife Linda; sisters, Sarah Damico and husband Nick, Donna Deaunovich and husband George; brothers-in-law, Donald Skene Bair Jr. and wife Vickie, and William N. Bair and wife Sue and sister-in-law, Susan Morelli and husband Mark, all of Greensburg; her father-in-law, Donald S. Bair and wife Carolyn; and the following nieces and nephews: Mark and Michelle Damico, Nick and Lori Damico, Kristin Damico, Jessica Deaunovich, Amie and Ben Valore-Caplan, Domenick Valore IV, Christopher Valore, Marcus Morelli, Caitlin Morelli, Ali Ann Morelli, Sarah Bair and Billy Bair. Family and friends will be received at the KEPPLE-GRAFT FUNERAL HOME, 524 N. Main St., Greensburg, Sunday from 3 to 5 and 7 to 9 p.m. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated Monday at 10 a.m. in St. Benedict Church, Marguerite with the Rev. Stephen Honeygosky O.S.B. as celebrant. EVERYONE IS TO GO DIRECTLY TO THE CHURCH. Private interment will follow in St. Clair Cemetery. The family has asked that flowers be omitted and contributions to one's favorite charity would be appreciated.

JULIA J. (WROBLEWSKI) BERIS
Julia J. (Wroblewski) Beris, of Chalfant, age 87, on Saturday, Nov. 13, 1999. Wife of the late John Beris; sister of Evelyn Hardek of Florida, Cecelia Zahorchak of Delmont, Lucy Miller of Fox Chapel, the late Adam Wroblewski, and the late Amelia Zahorchak. Also many nieces and nephews. Friends may call Sunday from 7 to 9 p.m. and Monday from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. at the PATRICK T. LANIGAN FUNERAL HOME, 700 Linden Ave., East Pittsburgh. Mass of Christian Burial in St. Maurice Church, Tuesday at 10 a.m.

BRONWEN E. BRANTHOOVER
Bronwen E. ``Bonnie'' Branthoover, 78, of Export RD8, (Washington Township), died Thursday, Nov. 11, 1999, in the Beverly Health Care/Murrysville nursing home. Born February 22, 1921, in Johnstown, she graduated from the Indiana University of Pennsylvania in 1943, and was employed as the Washington Township School District's first supervisor of music. She was a member of the Poke Run Presbyterian Church in Mamont and, for a number of years, was the church organist and choir director. For many years, she taught private piano lessons in her home, and often served as organist for several other area churches. She is survived by her husband of 53 years, Robert M. Branthoover; four children: Cindy Branthoover of Miami, Fla., Jeff Branthoover of Export RD2, Marianne Kapustik and her husband, Jim, of Vandergrift, and Gary R. Branthoover of Delmont; and two granddaughters, Kristen and Heather Magee of Vandergrift. Funeral arrangements are private. Should friends desire, memorial remembrances may be made in Mrs. Branthoover's name to a charity of choice. JOHN L. BASH FUNERAL HOME, 152 Abbe Place, Delmont, (724) 468-8381, in charge of arrangements. 

EDWARD R. BRINER
Edward R. Briner, D.M.D., age 73, died at Westmoreland Regional Hospital, Greensburg, on Saturday, Nov. 13, 1999. A son of Clarence and Ada Polchinski Briner. He was born in Kecksburg on Sept. 19, 1926. After attending public school in Mt. Pleasant Township, he attended St. Vincent College, and was then graduated from the University of Pittsburgh School of Dentistry in 1952. During World War II he served in the Philippines with the Army Medical Corps. He was a member of the Acme United Methodist Church. He practiced dentistry in Norvelt for nine years, in Mt. Pleasant for 19 years, and Acme for 13 years, before retiring in 1994. Dr. Briner served on the Mt. Pleasant Township School Board during the era when the jointure with Mt. Pleasant Borough was taking place, and was board president when the present high school was built. He was very active in ham radio, being licensed as WA3TVG in 1974. For many years, he served as a director, treasurer, then president, and finally, for 21 years, as the newsletter editor for the Medical Amateur Radio Council, an organization of health professionals who are ham radio operators. In 1995, he was awarded a special achievement award at the Dayton Hamfest, the largest gathering of ham radio operators in the world. He was instrumental in the formation of a local ham club, the Laurel Highlands VHF Society. Dr. Briner made several trips to San Pedro Sula, Honduras, with the Flying Dentists to do philanthropic dentistry for the indigent people residing there. He was an enthusiastic computer operator, having gotten his first in 1977, and at his passing, had been an operator of eight different computers, upgrading each time a newer model was introduced. Surviving are his wife, Ruby Hoke Briner, to whom he was married 49 years; daughters, Pamela Yothers and her husband, Dr. Mark Yothers, Dr. Patricia Briner and her husband, Bruce Shaffer; grandchildren, Jonathan Yothers, Nathaniel Shaffer and Erin Shaffer; a sister, Martha Paunovich of Kecksburg; and a brother, Clarence H. Briner Jr. of Ashville, N.C. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by a sister, Vivian Bish. Viewing will be from 7 to 9 p.m. Monday, and from 2 to 5 and 7 to 9 p.m. Tuesday at the JAY A. HOFFER FUNERAL HOME, Norvelt, with services to be conducted Wednesday at 11 a.m. in the funeral home with pastors Terry Trudgen and Paul Morris co-officiating. In lieu of flowers, the family would like donations to be made to the American Diabetes Association, P.O. Box 444, Mt. Morris, IL 61054-0444. Entombment will follow in the Middle Presbyterian Cemetery, Mt. Pleasant. Military rites will be accorded. Sandra L. Hoffer, funeral director.

WILLIAM F. CALDWELL
William F. ``Popeye'' Caldwell, 81, of North Huntingdon, died Saturday, Nov. 13, 1999, at home. He was born June 13, 1918, in Hempfield Township, a son of the late Albert and Anna Eisaman Caldwell. He was a retired employee of Union Railroad. He was a veteran of World War II, having served in the U.S. Army, and was a member of American Legion Post 359, Irwin. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a daughter, Sarah Jane Smith in 1982; six brothers, Walter, Richard, Robert, James, Carl and Wayne Caldwell; and two sisters, Isabelle Caldwell and Olive Roygor. He is survived by his wife, Sarah Jane Lentz Caldwell; a son, Charles W. Caldwell of Georgia; two grandchildren, Charles W. Smith and Shara E. Smith; a sister, Sara Bollinger of Charleston, W.Va.; and nieces and nephews. Friends will be received at the WILLIAM SNYDER FUNERAL HOME, 521 Main St., Irwin, Monday from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. Funeral services will be held Tuesday at 11 a.m. in the funeral home with the Rev. Paul Baer officiating. Interment will follow in Penn-Lincoln Memorial Park, North Huntingdon.

KATHLEEN LYNN COFFMAN
Kathleen Lynn Coffman, 52, of Mt. Pleasant, died Thursday, Nov. 11, 1999, in Frick Hospital, Mt. Pleasant. She was born in Connellsville, Dec. 20, 1946, a daughter of the late Jesse and Gladys Pringle Laugherty. She is survived by three sons, Sean Harbarger, Scott Harbarger of Harrisburg, and D.J. Coffman of Connellsville; two daughters, Kassandra Harbarger of Mt. Pleasant, and Kelly Miller of Mt. Pleasant; three grandchildren; and a sister, Patricia Tanner of Louisville, Ky. Friends will be received in the FRANK R. ZIMMERMAN FUNERAL HOME INC., 627 Smithfield St., Mt. Pleasant, Sunday from 6 to 9 p.m. Services will be held in the funeral home Monday at 2 p.m. with the Rev. George Hickok officiating. Interment will be private.

EMMA P. DAVIS
Emma P. Davis, 91, of the Extendacare Nursing Home, Goshen, Ind., formerly of Pleasant Unity, died at 5:35 a.m. on Friday, Nov. 12, 1999. She was born July 26, 1908, in Kecksburg, a daughter of Harry N. and Anna M. Carey Myers. On Nov. 11, 1937, she married Clarence H. Davis, who died on June 19, 1948. She is survived by a son, Ernest, of Goshen, Ind.; and two grandchildren. She was a homemaker. There will be no visitation or services. REITH-ROHRER-EHRET FUNERAL HOME, Goshen, Ind., in charge of arrangements.

KENNETH E. HILL
Kenneth E. Hill, 87, of Greensburg RD2, died Saturday, Nov. 13, 1999, in the Westmoreland Regional Hospital, Greensburg. He was born March 14, 1912, in Vandergrift, a son of the late John A. and Maggie George Hill. Prior to his retirement, he had been employed by the Peoples Natural Gas Company in Greensburg for 26 years. He was a member of the South Greensburg United Methodist Church; Philanthropy Lodge No. 225 F&AM in Greensburg and the P.E.O.N.Y. Masonic Order. He had been a certified instructor in First Aid for the American Red Cross, and was a member of the Midway-St. Clair Volunteer Fire Department. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his wife, Edna Bee Hill; two daughters, Betty and Shirley Hill; three brothers, James, Charles and Robert Hill; and two sisters, Leone Speedy and Edna Hallman. He is survived by a son, Arthur B. Hill of Greensburg RD2; three daughters, Susan Ivory and her husband, Frank, of Greensburg RD2, Arleen Hawk and her husband, Robert, of Greensburg and Karen Jane Hill of Orlando, Fla.; 13 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; and a sister, Gertrude Garrett of Flint, Mich. Friends will be received at the BARNHART FUNERAL HOME, 505 E. Pittsburgh St., Greensburg, Monday from 3 to 5 and 7 to 9 p.m. Services will be held in the funeral home Tuesday at a time to be announced. Interment will follow in the Westmoreland County Memorial Park. Members of Philanthropy Lodge No. 225 F&AM and Westmoreland Lodge No. 518 F&AM will meet at the funeral home Monday at 7 p.m. to hold Masonic Services. Should friends desire, memorials may be placed with one's favorite charity. 

EMAJANE S. KEMERER
Emajane S. Kemerer, 71, of Greensburg, went to be with her Lord on Saturday, Nov. 13, 1999. She was born in Penn Township on July 24, 1928, and was the daughter of the late Kenneth and Alice Scott Altman. She was a member of the Emmanuel Reformed United Church of Christ in Export, and a member of the Order of Eastern Star Chapter 281 of Greensburg. She is survived by her loving husband, L. Wayne Kemerer; three daughters, Debbie Lattus and husband Gregory of Lovettsville Va., Becki Rosborough and husband Raymond of Greensburg, and Robin Fontana of Sevierville, Tenn.; two granddaughters; six grandsons; one great-granddaughter; and a sister, Henrietta Cline of Harrison City. "Mom, we will always remember your beauty and your kind and gentle heart. You filled our lives with joy. We love you. Until we meet again. Love, Debbie, Becki and Robin." Family and friends will be received at the KEPPLE-GRAFT FUNERAL HOME, 524 N. Main St., Greensburg, Monday from 3 to 5 and 7 to 9 p.m. Services will be held Tuesday in the funeral home at 11 a.m. with the Rev. Edwin J. Fromm officiating. Interment will follow in the Emmanuel Church Cemetery in Export. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested memorials to either the Westmoreland Hospice; American Cancer Society; or the Emmanuel Reformed Church, P.O. Box 426 Export, PA 15632.

JOHN A. McCOMBS
John A. McCombs, 52, of Cranberry Township, formerly of Carmichaels, died Friday, Nov. 12, 1999, at his home after a brief illness. He was born Nov. 25, 1946, in Waynesburg, a son of the late John A. ``Red'' and Marion Gabler McCombs. He graduated from LaFayette College in 1968 with a bachelor's in economics. He married Diana Gresko on Feb. 1, 1969. He was a senior consultant for retirement benefits for M.M.C.&P. Inc., Pittsburgh; and served as a captain in the U.S. Army in Vietnam. In addition to his wife, survivors include his children, Janice McCombs of Akron, Ohio, Caroline McCombs of Valparaiso, Ind., and John McCombs and Leslie McCombs, both of Cranberry Township; two brothers, Thomas and wife, Joyce McCombs and Jerry and wife, Margaret McCombs, all of Carmichaels, and Mrs. Mindy Kikta and husband, Stephen of Warrens, Wis.; also nine nephews and five nieces. Friends will be received Sunday from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m., and Monday from 10 to 11 a.m. at the PAUL M. LESAKO FUNERAL HOME INC., 204 Dowlin Ave., Carmichaels, where services will be held Monday at 11 a.m. with the Rev. Harold O. Kelley officiating. Interment Greene County Memorial Park, Waynesburg.

BRUCE M. MILLER
Bruce M. Miller, 75, of Jeannette, died Friday, Nov. 12, 1999, in Westmoreland Regional Hospital, Greensburg. Born June 18, 1924, in Meyersdale, a son of the late Bruce E. Miller and Nettie Maust Miller Barnett. Prior to his retirement, he was employed as an inspector by the Robertshaw Control Corp., with 45 years of service. He was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Jeannette, an usher, a member of the administrative board of the church, and the Council of Ministries. He was a veteran of World War II, having served with the 14th Air Corps as a member of the Flying Tigers. He was a member of Jeannette Post 344 of the American Legion, the Robertshaw Retirees Club, the Robertshaw Union Local 1163, where he served as secretary for 11 years, and the CBI Roof Garden Basha, and was a graduate of Somerset High School. He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Rosalyn Ferguson Miller; two sons, Bruce R. Miller of Greensburg RD6 and Allan P. Miller and wife, Carol, of New Stanton; a stepbrother, Albert Barnett and wife, Helen, of Greensburg; a half-sister, Mrs. Margaret Romsberg and husband, Calvin, of Fairfax, Va.; a stepsister, Mrs. Loraine Blant and husband, Bernard, of Los Angeles, Calif.; two sisters-in-law, Barbara Ferguson of West Newton and Ruth Ferguson of Acme RD; six grandchildren, Jessica, Tiffany and Dawn Miller of Jeannette RD, Tara Miller of New Stanton, and Brian and Lynnette Brezina, also of New Stanton. Friends will be received in the MASON-GELDER FUNERAL HOME INC., 201 N. First St., Jeannette, Sunday from noon to 1 p.m., and 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. Services will be conducted Monday at 11 a.m. in the First United Methodist Church of Jeannette, with the Rev. Dale W. Roddy officiating. Interment with full military rites accorded by the Jeannette Combined Veterans Association will follow in the Westmoreland County Memorial Park, Hempfield Township.

ELAINE V. (SAPP) POMPOSELLI
Elaine V. (Sapp) Pomposelli, 70, of Wilmerding. After much courage, Elaine died peacefully at home on Saturday, Nov. 13, 1999. A daughter of the late Andrew and Anna (Velchanski) Sapp. Beloved wife of Dominick C. ``Coochie'' Pomposelli. Dear mother of Jerry (Tina) and Joseph (LouAnn) Pomposelli; stepmother of Angelo (Kathy) Pomposelli; grandmother of J.D., Eric, Kasey, Angelo (Nadine), Patrick and Michael (Becky) Pomposelli, and Susan (Tim) Angotti. Great-grandmother of Nicole and Daniel Angotti, and Dominic and Gina Pomposelli; sister of Bernadean (Albert) Ralph, and Robert (Rita) Sapp. Also nieces and nephews. Friends will be received at the ALFIERI FUNERAL HOME INC., 201 Marguerite Ave., Wilmerding, Sunday and Monday from noon to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. Services in the funeral home Tuesday at 9 a.m. followed by Funeral Mass in St. Jude the Apostle Church at 10 a.m. 

EDITH HENSCHEL PRIOLETTO
Edith Henschel Prioletto, 82, of North Versailles, on Tuesday, Nov. 9, 1999. Beloved wife of the late Alvin Prioletto. Survived by three daughters, Judy Dughman of Colorado, Dorothy Langren of Tempe, Ariz., and Joyce Lewis of Connecticut; a sister, June McWhirter of Michigan; five grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and a sister-in-law, Ann Prioletto of Greensburg. She was a retired cafeteria worker at the East Allegheny School District. She was an active member in St. John's Lutheran Church and the Women's Club, and a former Sunday school teacher at the church. She was a member of East McKeesport Century Club, the Golden Agers of Wilmerding, the East Allegheny AARP #2580, and North Versailles Seniors. Visitation Friday, Nov. 19, at 10 a.m. with a memorial service at 11 a.m. in St. John's Lutheran Church, North Versailles. Family requests donations be made to the St. John's Lutheran Church Building Fund, 715 Lincoln Highway, North Versailles, PA 15137. Arrangements by the JAMES F. KUTCH FUNERAL HOME, 433 Greensburg Ave., Route 30, East McKeesport.

BEVERLY SOHN RECKARD
Beverly Sohn Reckard, 72, of McCandless Township, died Friday, Nov. 12, 1999, at her residence. She was born Sept. 21, 1927, in Harmony. She was a marketing researcher. She is survived by her husband, Robert H. Reckard; three daughters, Elaine Lenyo of Lancaster, Marilyn Oliver of Houston, Texas, and Robin Reckard of Grand Prairie, Texas; two sons, Jeffrey Reckard of McCandless Township, and Roger Reckard of Mercer; and two sisters, Billie Brizendine of Zelienople, and Phyllis Novotny of Charlottesville, Va. Visitation will be Sunday and Monday from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. at the SIMONS FUNERAL HOME INC., 7720 Perry Highway, Pittsburgh. Funeral services will be Tuesday at 11 a.m. in Northmont Presbyterian Church, 8169 Perry Highway, Pittsburgh. Interment in Mt. Royal Cemetery.

HARRY REGRUT
Harry Regrut, 82, of Murrysville, died Thursday, Nov. 11, 1999. He was born Oct. 1, 1917, in Braddock, a son of the late Peter and Mary Bohin Regrut. He was a retired machinist for Union Switch and Signal, Swissvale, with 40 years of service. He was a veteran of World War II, having served in the U.S. Army. He was a member of the Mother of Sorrows Church, Murrysville. Also, he was a life member of the Murrysville Volunteer Fire Co. and a member of the American Legion, Export. He was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Silvasy Regrut; four brothers and a sister, Michael, Steven, John and Andrew Regrut, and Mary Jancisin. He is survived by three daughters, Marita Beall and husband, Jim, of Pittsburgh, Geraldine Malloy and husband, Dan, of Las Vegas, Nev., and Christine Gorman and husband, Tom, of Cincinnati, Ohio; 10 grandchildren; three great-grandsons; and three sisters, Ann Pavlik of East Pittsburgh, Irene Regrut of Swissvale, and Helen Grant of St. Louis, Mo. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated Saturday, Dec. 4, at 10 a.m. in the Mother of Sorrows Church, Murrysville. Interment will be private. If desired, memorials may be made to the Murrysville Volunteer Fire Co., or the Forbes Hospice, 500 Finley St., Pittsburgh, PA 15206.

FREDERICK REYNOLDS 
Frederick Reynolds, 67, of North Huntingdon, died Friday, Nov. 12, 1999, in Jeannette District Memorial Hospital. He was born Nov. 28, 1931, in Pitcairn, a son of the late Frederick and Helen Wilhide Reynolds. Prior to his retirement, he was the owner/operator of Reynold's Sports Cars in North Huntingdon, and was formerly employed by American Architectural Metals, Jeannette. He was a lifetime member of the Circleville Fire Department, a 21-year member of the American Legion and the Jeannette Eagles, and a veteran of the U.S. Air Force, having served in the Korean conflict. He is survived by his wife, Lorayne Campoli Reynolds; two sons, Edward Reynolds of North Huntingdon and Fred ``Spider'' Reynolds of Olean, N.Y.; a daughter, Robin Hitshue of Austin, Texas; a stepdaughter, Denise Weixel of Level Green; a sister, Carole Crookston of North Huntingdon; five grandchildren; and a great-grandchild. Friends will be received Sunday from 7 to 9 p.m. and Monday from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. at the SHIRLEY-KUKICH FUNERAL HOME INC., Clay Pike, Circleville, North Huntingdon. A funeral service will be held Tuesday at 11 a.m. in the funeral home chapel with the Rev. Franklin Bishop officiating, followed by interment in Penn-Lincoln Memorial Park, North Huntingdon. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Rescue 8, or to the Circleville Fire Department.

MADELYN B. ROBINSON
Madelyn B. Robinson, 86, of Connellsville, passed away Saturday, Nov. 13, 1999, at Mt. St. Macrina North Union Township, near Uniontown. She was born March 21, 1913, in Vanderbilt, Pa., a daughter of the late George and Mary Blend. She was a former employee of the Hetzel Drug Store in Connellsville for many years. She was a member of St. Rita Roman Catholic Church, Connellsville. She is survived by her husband of 55 years, Lester J. Robinson; a daughter, Kathleen L. Franks and her husband William T. of Midlothian, Va.; two granddaughters, Amy Elizabeth Franks of Cincinnati, Ohio, and Julie Anne Franks of Midlothian, Va.; and a sister, Mrs. Mary Rigo of Cleveland, Ohio. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by a sister, Mary Williams; and two brothers, Anthony Blend and Joseph Blend. Friends will be received at the BROOKS FUNERAL HOME, 111 E. Green St., Connellsville, Monday from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m., where a blessing service will be held Tuesday at 9:30 a.m., followed by a Funeral Mass at 10 a.m. in St. Rita R.C. Church with the Rev. Frank Lesniowski as celebrant. Committal service and interment will follow in St. Joseph Cemetery. A parish wake service will be held Monday at 8 p.m. at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, family requests memorial donations to the Carnegie Free Library, Connellsville.

CORA ADA ROSS
Cora Ada Ross, 95, of Derry, died Saturday, Nov. 13, 1999, in Loyalhanna Care Center. She was born Oct. 27, 1903, in Robinson, a daughter of the late John F. and Olive Viola Bowers Moore. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Derry. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Lewis N. Ross Sr. on June 29, 1960; two brothers, Wilbert and Everett Moore; and two sisters, Clara Hall and Viola Goffner. She is survived by two sons, Paul F. and his wife Jean Ross of Whispering Pines, North Carolina, and Lewis N. and his wife Ann Ross of Mentor, Ohio; a brother, Roy S. Moore of Ft. Lauderdale, Fla.; and a sister, Mary Yeager of Latrobe; five grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. Friends will be received Tuesday from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. in the McCABE FUNERAL HOME, 300 W. Third Ave., Derry, where services will be conducted Wednesday at 11 a.m. with the Rev. David D. Wilson Jr. officiating. Interment will follow in Coles Cemetery, Derry.

EDITH G. SCARCELLA ROSSO Edith G. Scarcella Rosso, 86, of North Huntingdon, died Friday Nov. 12, 1999, in Alexandria, Va. She was born Jan. 15, 1913, in Herminie, a daughter of the late Alfred and Frances Mangan Scarcella. She was a member of the Immaculate Conception Church of Irwin. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Angelo ``Scratch'' Rosso, in 1994; a brother, James Scarcella; and three sisters, Rose Brenna, Angeline Arrotti and Jennie Mistro. Surviving are three daughters, Sylvia Matthews of Springfield Va., Karen Wykle and Sandy Rosso Cooper, both of Alexandria, Va.; three grandchildren; a brother, Anthony Scarcella of California; and four sisters, Josephine Fischetti of Florida, Mary Gross and Margaret Kimberly, both of North Huntingdon, and Carmae Evansek of Herminie. Friends will be received at the JOSEPH F. OTT FUNERAL HOME INC., Fifth and Oak streets, Irwin, Monday from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. Funeral Mass will be celebrated Tuesday at 10 a.m. in the Immaculate Conception Church. Interment will follow in the Immaculate Conception Cemetery, North Huntingdon. Memorials may be made to the Northern Virginia Hospice, 6565 Arlington Blvd., Suite 501, Falls Church, VA 22042

FATHER EDWARD C. TAJC
Father Edward C. Tajc, 72, a retired priest of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Greensburg, died Friday, Nov. 12, 1999, in the St. Anne Home, Greensburg. Born in West Leisenring, Fayette County, on Oct. 11, 1927, he was a son of the late Joseph F. and Anna Skurnick Tajc. A graduate of Dunbar Township High School, he held a degree from St. Mary College, St. Mary, Ky., and was a graduate of St. Francis Seminary, Loretto. He also served in the U.S. Army. Father Tajc was ordained to the priesthood by Bishop William G. Connare on May 10, 1969, at the Blessed Sacrament Cathedral, Greensburg. Following ordination, he was assigned as a parochial vicar at St. Mary Church, Uniontown, and subsequently moved to St. Rita Church, Connellsville. He received his first pastorate at St. Hedwig, Smock, in 1976; moved to St. Mary of the Assumption, Brownsville, in 1980; and to Holy Trinity, Ford City, in 1990. In 1996, he was assigned as pastor of All Saints, Masontown, and in 1997, he became pastor of St. Raymond of the Mountains, Donegal. Father Tajc retired on June 30, 1999, for health reasons. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by three brothers, Andrew, Paul, George ``Wally Gingers'' Tajc; and two sisters, Elizabeth Zavatchan and Margaret Steinkrauss. Surviving are two brothers, John Tajc and wife, Victoria, of Levittown and Frank Teich and wife, Barbara of Weymouth, Mass.; two nieces, Rose Gabeletto of Nemacolin and Karen Boyer of West Leisenring; a brother-in-law, Francis Steinkrauss of Weymouth, Mass; and two sisters-in-law, Mildred Tajc of West Leisenring and Irene Connelly of Braintree, Mass. Friends will be received Sunday from 7 to 9 p.m. and Monday from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. at the HAKY FUNERAL HOMES INC., 139 W. Fayette St., Uniontown. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Tuesday at 11 a.m. in St. John the Evangelist Church, Uniontown, with Greensburg Bishop Anthony G. Bosco as main celebrant. Interment St. John the Evangelist Cemetery, Brookvale. Father Tajc will be remembered by his family as a humble, caring pastor with a special gift of listening and making each member of his congregation feel important. He was a ``regular guy'' who helped bring the people of Fayette and Armstrong counties closer to God. In lieu of flowers, please make memorial contributions to the Sisters of Mary Immaculate, St. Joseph's Center, 2900 Seminary Drive, Greensburg, PA 15601.

MARY JO ZIMMERMAN
Mary Jo Zimmerman, 77, of Greensburg, died Saturday, Nov. 13, 1999, in the Westmoreland Regional Hospital, Greensburg. She was born March 24, 1922, in Greensburg, a daughter of the late James E. and Verdi Stump Zimmerman. She was a member of St. John's United Church of Christ in Larimer. Prior to her retirement, she had been employed by General Tire and Rubber in Jeannette. She was a 1941 graduate of Greensburg High School. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by two brothers, Willis and James Zimmerman; and three sisters, Eleanor Beam, Mabel Baker and Helen Sutton. She is survived by three sisters, Agnes Seanor and Eileen Zimmerman, both of Greensburg, and Loujean Patrick of California; and a number of nieces and nephews. Friends will be received at the BARNHART FUNERAL HOME, 505 E. Pittsburgh St., Greensburg, Monday from 3 to 5 and 7 to 9 p.m. Services will be held in the funeral home Tuesday at 2 p.m. with the Rev. Claudia Papenmeier officiating. Interment will follow in the Hillview Cemetery.

ALBERT A. BEALKO
Albert A. Bealko, 71, of Port Vue, died Thursday, Nov. 11, 1999, at West Penn Hospital, Pittsburgh. Born July 29, 1928, in Mt. Pleasant, a son of the late William Coleman and Pearl Rozazinski Bealko. He is survived by his former wife, Alice Faye Bealko; three daughters, Beverly (Dennis) Petrovay of North Huntingdon, Veronica Walker of Ponce Inlet, Fla., and Susan (Dennis) James of North Huntingdon; nine grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; two sisters, Pearl Fetzko of Henderson, Texas, and Helen Bekowitz of North Versailles; a brother, Edward Bealko of Indiantown, Fla.; and nieces and nephews. He was the owner of the former Al Payton's Place Bar and Restaurant and had been previously employed as a brakeman for Union Railroad and a delivery man for Stratigos Catering of White Oak. He was a member of St. Martin DePorres Parish, where he had served as an usher and volunteer for church activities, including the Lenten fish dinners. He had served in the U.S. Army and the Merchant Marines during World War II. Visitation will be held at the WILLIG FUNERAL HOME, 220 Ninth Ave., McKeesport, Saturday evening from 7 to 9 and Sunday from 12 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Monday, Nov. 15, at 10 a.m. at St. Peter's Worship Site, McKeesport, with the Very Rev. John Rushofsky officiating. Interment will follow at New St. Joseph Cemetery, North Versailles.

SAMUEL J. BENISH
Samuel J. Benish, 92, of Irwin, died Thursday, Nov. 11, 1999. He was born Jan. 7, 1907, in Biddle, Pa. (North Huntingdon Township), a son of the late Sam and Catherine (Bright) Benish. He was an inspector for WABCO (Westinghouse Air Brake), Wilmerding, retiring in 1970. He was a member of Shafton V.F.D., Westmoreland County Firemen's Association, Manor American Legion Post 472, and served in the U.S. Army, 11th Armored Division, during World War II. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Rose (Brivec) Benish, on Dec. 24, 1973; two brothers, Thomas and Peter Benish; and a sister, Agnes Benish. Survived by a son, Charles M. and wife, Shirley Benish, of Irwin; two grandchildren, Charles Mark Benish of Herminie and Kelly Heffner of Baltimore, Md.; a brother, Mark Benish of Irwin; and a sister, Katherine Plues of Irwin. Friends will be received Sunday from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. at the VINCENT V. RODGERS FUNERAL HOME, 805 Pennsylvania Ave., Irwin. A blessing service will be held Monday, Nov. 15, at 10 a.m. in the funeral home chapel. Interment Immaculate Conception Cemetery.

SANDRA LYNN (REITZE) DAUBE
Sandra Lynn (Reitze) Daube, suddenly Saturday, Nov. 6, 1999, in the Dominican Republic. Beloved wife of the late Thomas Carle Daube. Dear daughter of the late Harry W. and Ruth M. Reitze. Loving sister of Harry W. Reitze. Cherished daughter-in-law of Carl and Jean Daube. Loving sister-in-law of Jeanne and Doug Broglie, David and Sandra Daube, Karlyn and Bill Davis. Wonderful aunt of Joshua, Michelle, Greg, Heather, Douglas, David, Kristin, and Tommy. Great-aunt of Charlie, Jacqueline, and Joshua. Dear friend of Bill and Betty Edwards. Sandy was loved by all. Funeral arrangements by BEINHAUERS. Friends welcome at 2630 W. Liberty Ave., (412) 531-4000, Saturday and Sunday from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m., where services will be held Monday at 10 a.m. Interment Jefferson Memorial Park. Donations may be made to the American Heart Association, 10 Duff Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15235.

MARY GRACE (RYAN) DUFFY
Mary Grace (Ryan) Duffy, 88, of Library, formerly of Shadyside, died Friday, Nov. 12, 1999. Wife of the late Patrick Duffy. Beloved mother of Patricia Wipper of Studio City, Calif., Kathleen Gasior of Library, and Bernard Duffy of Erie; stepmother of Mildred, Rita, Patrick, Betty, Jane, and the late Elva, Margaret, Emmett, and Dorothy; sister of Margaret (Ryan) Ellison; and the late Robert Ryan. Also numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She will be greatly missed by her family and friends. Visitation from 2 to 9 p.m. Sunday at the DAVID J. HENNEY FUNERAL HOME, 6364 Library Road (Route 88), Library. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Monday at 10 a.m. in St. Joan of Arc Church.

JAMES HARROLD ESSON
A memorial service for James Harrold Esson, late of Las Vegas, Nev., will be held at the Heritage United Methodist Church, on the Diamond, Ligonier, Saturday, Nov. 20, at 2 p.m.

RUTH VIRGINIA HARRIS
Ruth Virginia Harris, 76, of Bradenton, Fla., died Wednesday, Nov. 10, 1999. She was born in Pittsburgh and moved to Florida from Greensburg five years ago. She was a homemaker and a member of the First Presbyterian Church, Greensburg. She is survived by her husband, Donald F. Harris; a daughter, Barbara Cole of Orleans, Mass.; two sons, Donald Harris of Elyria, Ohio, and Kenneth Harris of Greensburg; a sister, Jane Susnak of Pittsburgh; six grandchildren; and a great-grandchild. Memorial services will be held Saturday, Nov. 13, at 7 p.m. at the West Winds Village Club House, Bradenton, Fla. Memorial donations may be made to Hospice of S.W. Florida, 5955 Rand Blvd., Sarasota, FL 34238. WIEGAND BROTHERS FUNERAL HOME, Sarasota, in charge of arrangements.

ALFRED LABER
Alfred Laber, 93, a resident of North Huntingdon Township for many years, and most recently a resident of St. Anne Home, Greensburg, died Thursday, Nov. 11, 1999, in St. Anne Home. He was born March 7, 1906, in Irwin, a son of the late Joseph and Barbara Cipra Laber. Alfred was a member of the Holy Trinity Lutheran Church of Irwin for more than 45 years. Alfred was employed as a draftsman for the Westinghouse Air Brake Co. of Wilmerding, from which he retired in 1971. He worked there for 36 years. Outside this employment, he enjoyed gardening and hunting throughout his life. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Stehney Laber, to whom he was married for 63 years. He is survived by his only son, the Rev. J. Kenneth Laber, pastor of the Prince of Peace Lutheran Church of Erie, and his wife, Susan, of North East, Pa.; and his grandchildren, Heidi M. Laber of Oakland, Calif., and Christian S. Laber and his wife, Ellen, of Ventura, Calif. Friends will be received Sunday from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. at the JOSEPH F. OTT FUNERAL HOME INC., Fifth and Oak streets, Irwin. Funeral services will be held Monday at 11:30 a.m. in Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, with the Rev. William L. Hauser officiating. Interment will follow in the Penn-Lincoln Memorial Park. Memorials may be given to the memorial fund of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, Main and Fifth streets, Irwin, PA 15642.

JAMES G. LEIGHTY
James G. Leighty, 74, of Reston, Va., formerly of Scottdale, passed away Thursday morning, Nov. 11, 1999, in Reston Columbia Hospital, Reston, Va. Family and friends will be received at the ROBERT B. FERGUSON FUNERAL HOME, 105 Spring St., Scottdale, (724) 887-5300, Sunday from 5 to 9 p.m. Funeral services will be held Monday at 10 a.m. in the funeral home chapel with the Rev. Dr. Terry V. Murray officiating. Graveside committal services and interment will follow in Scottdale Cemetery.

WILLIAM J. MORAVETZ
William J. Moravetz, 80, of Penn Township, died Thursday, Nov. 11, 1999, in Jefferson, Ohio. He was born July 21, 1919, in Patton Township, a son of the late John A. and Emma Daschkiewich Moravetz. Prior to his retirement, he was employed as a machinist for Westinghouse in East Pittsburgh. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Virginia Drost Moravetz, in 1999; and a brother, Frank Moravetz. Survived by a son, Jack Moravetz of Jefferson, Ohio; a daughter, Cheryl A. VanBuren of Woodstock, Ga.; and three grandchildren, Sharon and Jessica Moravetz, and Bradley VanBuren. Friends will be received at the JAMES E. LINDSAY FUNERAL HOME INC., Main Street, Harrison City, Sunday from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. Funeral services will be held Monday at 11 a.m. in the funeral home with the Rev. Joseph W. Kiewra officiating. Interment will follow in Restland Memorial Park, Monroeville.

DOLORES GRABIAK NITKIEWICZ
Dolores Grabiak Nitkiewicz, 67, of Southwest, died Thursday, Nov. 11, 1999, in Latrobe Area Hospital. She was born Feb. 13, 1932, in Mt. Pleasant Township, a daughter of the late Joseph and Mary Nemeth Grabiak. She was a member of Transfiguration Church and its Holy Rosary Society, the Kosciuszko Ladies Auxiliary of Mt. Pleasant, and a member of the former Hecla Ladies Auxiliary. Prior to retirement she was employed as a supervisor/cook for the Transfiguration School cafeteria. Surviving are her husband of 45 years, Julius ``Chinky'' Nitkiewicz; the following children, Cheryl Yohman and her husband, Terry, of Southwest, David Nitkiewicz and his wife, Lynn, of Mt. Pleasant RD1 (Weltytown), and Linda Polakovsky and her husband, Chris, of Mt. Pleasant; four grandchildren, Nicole and Amanda Yohman, and Rebecca and Nicholas Polakovsky; a brother, William J. Grabiak and his wife, Kathryn, of Southwest; and nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her son, Jeffrey Nitkiewicz and a sister, Mary Louise Popnick. Friends will be received at the JAY A. HOFFER FUNERAL HOME, Norvelt, Saturday and Sunday from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated Monday at 10 a.m. in Transfiguration Church with the Rev. Robert M. Washko as celebrant. Interment will follow in the Transfiguration Cemetery, Mt. Pleasant. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, 241 Fourth Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15222, or the International Multiple Myeloma Foundation. Transfiguration Holy Rosary Society will recite the rosary Sunday at 3 p.m. in the funeral home, and immediately following the Kosciuszko Ladies Auxiliary will hold a memorial service. Panachida service will be held in the funeral home Sunday at 7:30 p.m. Sandra L. Hoffer, funeral director.

MARY MARGARET PIVIK
Mary Margaret Pivik, 100, of Murrysville, on Friday, Nov. 12, 1999. Wife of the late Joseph Pivik. Beloved mother of Mildred McGowan, Gloria Vuletich, Orvin Pivik, Carol Hart, Mary Braun, Joseph Pivik, and the late Elmer Pivik, Carolyn Pivik, Verna Flanders and Chalmer Pivik. Grandmother of 16 and great-grandmother of 26. Friends received Sunday from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. at the MAURICE L. KNEE LTD. FUNERAL HOME, 7663 Saltsburg Road, Plum Borough (across from S&T Bank). Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Monday at 10 a.m. in St. Barbara Catholic Church, Harrison City.

CASS RINKACS
Cass Rinkacs, 64, of North Huntingdon, died Friday, Nov. 12, 1999, at her home. She was born Jan. 3, 1935, in Philadelphia, a daughter of the late William and Mary McDougall. She was formerly employed as a clerk by Flex Medco RX. Cass was a member of St. Stephen's Byzantine Catholic Church, North Huntingdon, and the Ladies Guild, Markvue Manor Women's Club, was a volunteer for Norwin Public Library, and was voted Mother of the Year in the Irwin area in the 1980s. She is survived by her husband, Denis J. Rinkacs; five sons, William J. of Apollo, Denis J. of Pittsburgh, John S. of North Attleborough, Mass., Thomas J. of White Oak, and David E. of Orlando, Fla.; a daughter, Christine Liner of North Augusta, S.C.; a sister, Patricia McLaughlin of Philadelphia; and six grandchildren, C.J., Wynonna, Sammy, Paul, Jacob, and Maddie. Friends will be received at the SHIRLEY-KUKICH FUNERAL HOME INC., Clay Pike, Circleville, North Huntingdon, Sunday and Monday from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. A Funeral Liturgy will be held Tuesday at 10:30 a.m. in St. Stephen's Church, followed by interment in the New St. Joseph Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Norwin Public Library, 299 Third St., Irwin, PA 15642, or to the American Cancer Society, 241 Fourth Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15222.

ANNA C. BABICK SMAIL
Anna C. Babick Smail, 82, of Mt. Pleasant RD6, died Friday, Nov. 12, 1999, in Westmoreland Regional Hospital, Greensburg. She was born Dec. 16, 1916, in Jessup, Pa. (Crabtree), a daughter of the late Steve and Elizabeth Onnefrey Babick. She was a member of St. Florian Catholic Church, United. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, George Smail, in 1981; an infant son; a granddaughter, Pamela Hoadwonic; a grandson, James Tomich; a sister, Mary Bania; a brother, Steve Babick; and a brother-in-law, Joseph Smail. Surviving are the following children, Anna Marie Tomich and her husband, Charles, of Mt. Pleasant RD1 (Norvelt), Louise Hoadwonic and her husband, Nick, of Ruffsdale RD2, Thomas Smail and his wife, Mary, of Mt. Pleasant RD6, and Sam Smail and his wife, Wanda, of Mt. Pleasant RD6; eight grandchildren, Cynthia Bosnic and her husband, Brian, Tami Tomich, Nick Hoadwonic and his wife, Debbie, Donna Carney and her husband, Ron, Thomas-Joseph ``T.J.'' Smail, Sam, Josh, and Jack Smail; seven great-grandchildren, Zachary and Jacob Tomich, Louisa and Terry Carney, Billie and B.J. Hoadwonic, and Dante Bosnic; three sisters, Elizabeth Orischak of Southwest, Sophia Leyshock of Dunbar, and Pauline Oplinger of Southwest; and nieces and nephews. Friends will be received at the JAY A. HOFFER FUNERAL HOME, Norvelt, Saturday and Sunday from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. A blessing service will be held in the funeral home Monday at 11 a.m., followed by her Funeral Mass to be celebrated at 11:30 a.m. in the St. Florian Catholic Church, United, with the Rev. John M. Foriska as celebrant. Interment will follow in St. Florian Cemetery, Trauger. A wake service will be held in the funeral home Sunday at 7 p.m. Sandra L. Hoffer, funeral director.


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