Mike Smith Sr.
Worked at Jessop Steel for 33 years
Mike Smith Sr., 74, of Holly Drive, Washington, died at 7:56 a.m. Thursday, November 26, 1998, in Washington Hospital.
Born March 7, 1924, in Renton, he was a son of Stela Porenska Smith of Florida, and the late Daniel Smith.
Mr. Smith was a member of the Christian Church of North America, Washington, and had been employed for 33 years by Jessop Steel Co., Washington, prior to his retirement.
During World War II, he served in the U.S. Army in the Northern Solomons and Luzon. He received the Good Conduct Medal, Bronze Star, Purple Heart, Philippine Liberation Ribbon, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal, Bronze Star Arrowhead and World War II Victory Medal.
On February 10, 1947, he married Julia Lutz Gomez, who died February 16, 1982.
Surviving are two sons, Mike Smith Jr. of Washington and the Rev. Daniel R. Lutz of Claysville; six daughters, Julie Ann Straight of New Matamoras, Ohio, Diana Nyswaner of Washington, Barbara Ann Marofka of Washington, Marlene Main of Washington, Debra Walker of Moundsville, W.Va., and Michelle Lutz of Washington; three stepsons, Manuel and Frank Gomez of Washington and Jose Gomez of Claysville; 25 grandchildren; and14 great-grandchildren.
Deceased are two sons, Steven and James Smith, who died in infancy.
Andrew M. Starr
Retired steelworker from Carnegie
Andrew M. Starr, 75, of Carnegie, died Thursday, November 26, 1998, in St. Clair Memorial Hospital, Mt. Lebanon.
He was born July 3, 1923, in Carnegie, a son of Andrew and Anastasia Podalak Starczewski.
Mr. Starr was a veteran of World War II and was a retired steelworker.
Surviving are a daughter, Elizabeth Wood of Carnegie; a son, Mark Starr of North Carolina; a grandson, Luke Allen Wood; and three brothers, Stanley and Frank Starczewski and Peter Podalak.
Deceased is his wife, Mary, who died in 1993.
Edward E. Walchock
East Millsboro man was mine mechanic
Edward E. Walchock, 79, of East Millsboro, died Friday, November 27, 1998, in Mercy Hospital, Pittsburgh.
He was born February 27, 1919, in Luzerne Township, Fayette County, a son of George Earl and Grace Esther Bonnell Walchock.
Mr. Walchock retired from Luzerne Coal Co., formerly of East Millsboro and had worked for more than 40 years as a mechanic in the Isabella and Gateway mines. He was a member of UMWA District 2.
Surviving are his wife of 53 years, Jane E. Baily Walchock; a son, Bill of East Millsboro; two brothers, George of Newell and Jerome of the state of Michigan; four sisters, Evelyn Anders of Ohio, Matilda Ross and Ruth Glasso of the state of Indiana and Robert Advent of Masontown; and several nieces and nephews.
Deceased are two daughters, Beverly Jane Walchock and Virginia Maust; a son, Dale Edward Walchock; and several siblings.
Mary A. Whitfield
Longtime teacher and principal in Monongahela
Mary Anderson Whitfield, 97, of Springdale, Allegheny County, formerly of Lock Four, died Friday, November 20, 1998, at home. She had been ill for eight months.
She was born October 9, 1901, in Vestaburg, a daughter of William and Mary Ann Carrick Anderson. She had maintained the family homestead on Sixth Street in Lock Four for many years with her sister, Anna Carrick Anderson, until Anna's death in 1984.
She was a member of Springdale United Presbyterian Church, Monongahela, the Eastern Star and Lower Valley Senior Citizens.
Mrs. Whitfield was a 1921 graduate of California University of Pennsylvania. with a bachelor of science degree in elementary education.
She was a teacher and principal in the area for 35 years, serving 20 years as principal at Waverly Elementary School in Monongahela. Prior to that, she taught in Monongahela schools for seven years after starting her career as principal at Speers Elementary. She retired from Ringgold School District in 1967.
Surviving are a son, George Jay Whitfield of Springdale; five grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren. Also surviving are a niece, Lois Anne Anderson Lynn of Monongahela; a grandniece and three grandnephews.
Deceased are her husband, Glenn Whitfield; a sister, Anna; and two brothers, George Washington Anderson and Charles Jay Anderson.
Services were held in Springdale, with burial in Monongahela Cemetery.
Joseph Curnarski Sr.
Houston WW II veteran played lodge Santa
Joseph J. "Philco" Curnarski Sr., 85, of Houston, died Monday, November 2, 1998, in The Greenery, following a four-month illness.
He was born August 15, 1913, in Southside, Pittsburgh, a son of Peter and Anna Piasecki Cwynarski.
Mr. Curnarski served as a staff sergeant in the Army Air Corps in the 12th Troop Carrier Squadron, 60th Troop Carrier Group, 12th Air Force, in Italy during World War II.
Prior to retirement in 1974, he was employed at Universal Cyclops Specialty Steel in Bridgeville.
Mr. Curnarski received his nickname, "Philco," from years of repairing Philco and Maytag washing machines.
He was a member of Our Lady of Miraculous Medal Church, Meadow Lands, where he had worked at their flea market for many years.
He was a member of KSKJ St. Jerome Lodge 153 of Strabane, where he played Santa Claus for their annual Christmas parties, and was a member of PRCU of Canonsburg, American Legion Post 902 in Houston and Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 191 of Canonsburg.
On June 28, 1941, he married Mary M. Koklich, who survives.
Also surviving are two sons, Joseph J. Curnarski Jr. of Strabane and James E. "Hammer" Curnarski at home; four sisters, JoAnn Biwojna of Houston, Caroline Harmuth of Canonsburg, Stella Simms of Strabane and Rose Marie Donaldson of McMurray; and several nieces and nephews.
Deceased are a daughter, Mary Jo Curnarski, who died in 1948; and twin brothers, John and Michael Cwynarski, who died in infancy.
CORRECTION
IN THE OBITUARY OF Joseph J. Curnarski Sr., which was published in Tuesday's edition, incomplete information was provided. Also deceased is a sister, Mary Butka.
Betty Carson DeVos
Florida resident formerly of McDonald
Betty Carson DeVos, 76, formerly of McDonald, died Saturday, October 31, 1998, in Boca Raton, Fla., where she had resided since 1976.
She was born in Bridgeville and moved to McDonald following her 1943 marriage to August Sidney DeVos.
Surviving are a son, Robert S. DeVos of Boca Raton; a granddaughter, Lisa Beth DeVos; two brothers, Dr. George Carson of Pittsburgh and Warren Carson of Bridgeville; and a sister, Virginia Stone of Boca Raton.
Funeral services and entombment will take place in Boca Raton.
Helen C. Dorricott
Member of St. Mary Church in Crucible
Helen Cormack Dorricott, 85, of Cleveland, Ohio, died Sunday, November 1, 1998, in Maple Care Center, Cleveland.
She was born February 11, 1913, in Royal, a daughter of George and Anna Gergel Cormack.
Mrs. Dorricott was a member of St. John Nepuemence Church, Cleveland, and St. Mary Church in Crucible.
On March 28, 1937, she married Benjamin Dorricott Jr., who died in 1984.
Surviving are two daughters, Winifred Horne and Mary Jane Reeves, both of Cleveland; a son, David Dorricott of Cleveland; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; a brother, Edward Cormack of Nemacolin; and three sisters, Agnes Toth of Carmichaels, Mary Torok of Vermillion, Ohio, and Catherine Swinchock of Waynesburg.
Deceased are three brothers, George, John and Frank Cormack; and three sisters, Margaret Kikta, Pauline Savanick and Anna Burvan.
Nancy Lee Fisher
Washington native
Nancy Lee Fisher, 68, of Scottsdale, Ariz., a retired journalist, died September 1, 1998.
She was born and raised in Washington and was a member of Western College Alumni Club and Opera Appreciation Club.
Surviving are three daughters, Stephanie LaStella, Rebecca McVeigh and Heidi Schliess; a son, Rolf Schliess; a sister, Mary Elizabeth Held; and seven grandchildren.
Services were held in Valley Presbyterian Chapel, Scottsdale. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society.
Josephine J. Haines
Worked for Pittsburgh Diocese and tax office
Josephine J. Haines, 73, of Canonsburg, died Monday, November 2, 1998, in her home.
She was born May 18, 1925, in Canonsburg, a daughter of James V. and Carmella Barone Ortuso.
She lived most of her life in Canonsburg, where she was a member of St. Patrick Roman Catholic Church and its Christian Mothers and Guild.
She was a member of Catholic Daughters of the Americas, Court Canonsburg 1211, where she had served as regent.
Mrs. Haines was employed by the Diocese of Pittsburgh and was diocesan chairman under Bishop Leonard. She also was employed at the Washington County Tax Assessment Office.
She was a member of the Assessors Association of Pennsylvania, serving as president of the association and its Southwestern District.
She was president of North Strabane Democratic Women, helped start the Canonsburg Youth Association and was a member of North Strabane Volunteer Fire Department and its Women's Auxiliary.
On October 20, 1946, she married John C. Haines, who survives.
Also surviving are three sons, Emory J. Haines of Severn, Md., Dennis R. Haines of Monessen and John E. Haines of Canonsburg; three daughters, Cheryl Ann Santora of Canonsburg, Kimberly Jo Haines of Brooklyn, N.Y., and Virginia Haines of Canonsburg; a brother, Domenick Ortuso of Cleveland, Ohio; two sisters, Connie Sedmak and Rose Haines, both of Canonsburg; 11 grandchildren, one great-grandson; and several nieces and nephews.
Deceased is a sister, Antoinette Dorance.
Charles Haschets Sr.
Millwright was 50-year resident of Coal Center
Charles W. Haschets Sr., 86, of 18 Howe Street, Coal Center, died at 1:59 p.m. Monday, November 2, 1998, in the home of his daughter, Trina Trozzo.
He was born July 7, 1912, in Monessen, a son of Samuel and Patricia Sudi Haschets.
Mr. Haschets was a resident of Coal Center for the past 50 years and was a member of First Baptist Church of Belle Vernon.
He retired as a millwright from Wheeling-Pittsburgh Steel's Monessen Plant.
He was a hunting and gardening enthusiast.
Surviving are two sons, Charles Haschets Jr. of Collinsburg and John Haschets of Washington; two daughters, Trina Trozzo of Stockdale and Gloria McDonough of Arnold City; two stepsons, Sam Smichnick of Lebanon and James Smichnick of the state of California; a stepdaughter, Linda Barncord of Belle Vernon; three brothers, Andrew of New Mexico, Samuel of Pittsburgh and John "Buck" Haschets of Monessen; three sisters, Anne Klein of Butler, Mary Pollocino of New York and Julia Resovich of Monessen; 19 grandchildren; and 16 great-grandchildren.
Deceased are his wife, Mary Lutes Smichnick Haschets, who died May 11, 1989; a brother, Michael Haschets; a sister, Sophie Sokol; and a grandson, Michael Bair.
Blanche J. Latham
Member of Fairhill Manor Christian Church
Blanche J. Latham, 89, of Washington, died Thursday, October 29, 1998, in the Bethel Park home of her niece, Linda Hess.
She was born September 2, 1909, and had lived since 1974 in Washington, where she was an active member of Fairhill Manor Christian Church.
She was a graduate of Lynchburg College, Lynchburg, Va., and the University of Kentucky.
Surviving are a sister, Alice Hinkle of Willoughby, Ohio; and nieces and nephews.
A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, November 7, in Fairhill Manor Christian Church, Washington. Contributions to the church or to Family Hospice are suggested.
Jasper LeRoy Lemley
Resident of Pine Bank worked in coal mines
Jasper LeRoy Lemley, 71, of Pine Bank, died Sunday, November 1, 1998, in Ruby Memorial Hospital, Morgantown, W.Va.
He was born March 12, 1927, in Daybrook, W.Va., a son of Lewis Russell and Bertha Moore Lemley.
Mr. Lemley was affiliated with the Methodist church and had worked in coal mines and shafts and as a handyman, gravedigger and sheepshearer.
Surviving are three sons, Dearald Lemley of Roaring Spring, Learnie Lemley of East Palatka, Fla., and Tom Lemley of Fayetteville, N.C.; two stepsons, Bob Braun of Washington, D.C., and Jerry Braun of Maryland; two daughters, Bonnie Garlitz of Morgantown, W.Va., and Bertha Willey of New Freeport; a stepdaughter, Deborah Henard of Core, W.Va.; two brothers, Winfred Lemley of San Diego, Calif., and Learnie Lemley of Pentress, W.Va.; four sisters, Minnie Tennant and Catherine Shaw, both of Hundred, W.Va., Betty Tennant of Blacksville, W.Va., and Jane Tennant of Burton R.D.1, W.Va.; 10 grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, nine stepgrandchildren; and six stepgreat-grandchildren.
Deceased are his first wife, Charlotte Isabelle Lemley, who died December 13, 1974; his second wife, Dorothy Tedrow Lemley, who died July 4, 1987; and a brother, Bill Lemley.
Frank R. Miller
U.S. Army veteran worked for Uniroyal
Frank R. Miller, 75, of Roseville, Mich., formerly of Canonsburg, died Thursday, October 29, 1998, in his home.
Born January 11, 1923, in Mastontown, he was a son of Albert and Bertha Miller.
Mr. Miller worked for Uniroyal in Michigan for 40 years and was stationed in Hawaii during World War II, serving with the U.S. Army.
Surviving are his wife, Mary Dumire Miller; a daughter, Lucille White of Cleveland, Ohio; three sons, Marvin Miller of Carnegie, David Miller of Michigan and Robert Miller of Pittsburgh; and a sister, Mae Wasnik of Houston.
Four brothers, Max Baer, Edward Miller, Albert Miller and Earnest Miller, are deceased.
Burial was Monday, November 2, in Michigan.
Charles F. Sanders Jr.
Precision-Marshall retiree was Korean War vet
Charles F. Sanders Jr., 68, of Lone Pine, died Monday, November 2, 1998, in his home.
He was born January 3, 1930, in Prosperity, a son of Charles F. Sr. and Pearl Hatfield Sanders.
Mr. Sanders attended Prosperity School and was a veteran of the Korean War, serving in the U.S. Army from 1951 to 1953.
He was employed as a steel grinder at Precision-Marshall Industries in Washington from 1955 until retiring in 1992.
Mr. Sanders was a member of North Ten Mile Baptist Church and had been active as an assistant Boy Scout leader in the Lone Pine area for many years.
On July 7, 1955, he married Romayne Kenimond, who survives.
Also surviving are three sons, Randy Sanders of West Alexander, Paul Sanders of Prosperity and Gary Sanders of Washington; two daughters, Pam Daniels and Paula Longstreth, both of Washington; a brother, Donald Sanders of Waynesburg; and eight grandchildren.
Pauline A. Scariot
Canonsburg homemaker enjoyed gardening
Pauline A. Scariot, 83, of Canonsburg, died Sunday, November 1, 1998.
She was born February 23, 1915, in Houston, a daughter of Anthony and Eva Zambelli.
On August 18, 1934, she married Attilio Scariot, who died October 23, 1986.
Mrs. Scariot was a homemaker and enjoyed gardening.
Surviving are two sons, Louis Scariot of Washington and Richard Scariot of Ellicott City, Md.; three grandchildren, Stacey Snyder, Shelley Conroy and Janet Scariot; four great-grandchildren; a brother, Albert Zambelli of Strabane; and a sister, Caroline Eroline of Pleasant Hills.
Deceased are two brothers, John Zambellaand John Deco; and two sisters, Mary Zambelli and Julia Golden.
Ann T. Litten Skiles
Formerly of Greene County
Ann T. Litten Skiles, 52, of Newburgh, Ind., formerly of Greene County, died of cancer at 1:46 p.m. Friday, October 30, 1998, in her home.
She was born February 14, 1946, and was a member of the American Legion Auxiliary.
Surviving are her husband of 34 years, James "Ed" Skiles; two daughters, Trish Rumble of Evansville, Ind., and Sandy Barnes of Newburgh; six grandchildren, Nici, Sami and Tori Rumble, Chelsea Skiles, and Logan and Keria Barnes; two brothers, Harry Litten Jr. of Endeavor and Jack Litten of Streetsboro, Ohio; and various aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews.
Services will be held Tuesday, November 3, in Newburgh. Burial will be in Rose Hill Cemetery, Newburgh. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice or the American Cancer Society.
Walter D. Sphar
Wheeling-Pitt Steel retiree from Fallowfield
Walter D. "Bill" Sphar, 96, of Fallowfield Township, died Monday, November 2, 1998, in Thorpes Personal Care Home, Charleroi.
He was born December 31, 1901, in Twilight Borough, a son of William and Margaret (Maggie) Williams Sphar.
Mr. Sphar was a member of First United Methodist Church of Charleroi.
He was retired from the Wheeling-Pittsburgh Steel Allenport Plant.
Surviving are several nieces and nephews.
Deceased are his wife, Pearl J. Sutherland Sphar, who died May 8, 1989; four brothers, Riley, Arthur, Homer and Parker Sphar; and four sisters, Cora Sphar, Juanita Barthelot, Ethel Corby and Bertha Morris.
Billie Jo VanderLee
1973 Trinity High School graduate was homemaker
Billie Jo Owen VanderLee, 44, of Washington, died Monday, November 2, 1998, in Washington Hospital following a lengthy illness.
She was born August 4, 1954, in Washington, a daughter of Jack R.L. Owen of Washington and the late Ruth Barnhart Owen.
Mrs. VanderLee was a homemaker and a member of East Buffalo Church.
She was a 1973 graduate of Trinity High School.
She made her home with Fred Grimes.
Surviving are two sons, Bryan Steven and Benjamin "B.J." Joseph VanderLee, both of Washington; a daughter, Jessica Renee VanderLee of Washington; a twin sister, Jackie L. Crites of Washington; and three sisters, Becky Grim and Erthalee Mituzas, both of Washington, and Judi Sprowls of Claysville.
Deceased is a sister, Lori Owen.
John Leonard Wagers
Employed by Bell Telephone for 43 years
John Leonard Wagers, 67, of Parkview Drive, Washington, died at 12:55 p.m. Monday, November 2, 1998, in his home.
He was born September 29, 1931, in Washington, a son of John H. and Ethel Hague Wagers.
He was a 1949 graduate of Washington High School and served in the U.S. Navy in the Pacific Theater during the Korean War.
Mr. Wagers was employed by Bell Telephone for 43 years prior to his retirement.
He was a member of Immaculate Conception Church, Edwin Scott Linton American Legion Post 175, a social member of Alpine Star Lodge No. 9 and a member of Bell Telephone Pioneers.
On June 29, 1955, he married Dolores Constance Pearson, who survives.
Also surviving are two sons, Kevin John Wagers of Racine, Wis., and Dr. Scott Stanley Wagers of Burlington, Vt.; his twin brother, Henry W. Wagers of Washington; a sister, Ethel Jacobs of Coraopolis; and two grandsons, Brian Michael and Eric John Wagers.
Jacqueline Watson
Worked for Pennsylvania Dept. of Labor and Industry
Jacqueline Watson of Charleroi died Monday, November 2, 1998, in Montefiore Hospital, Pittsburgh.
Born in Charleroi, Mrs. Watson was a daughter of John L. and Helen Havran Bender, who survive.
Mrs. Watson had been employed at the Charleroi office of the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry.
A Roman Catholic, Mrs. Watson was a member of Epiphany of Our Lord Roman Catholic Church, Monessen.
Surviving are her husband, Robert C. Watson; a son, David Deutsch of Monessen; and two brothers, Jack and Lawrence Bender.
A sister, Patricia Marie Bender, is deceased.
W. Baumgardner Jr.
Equitable Gas inspector served on Ringgold board
William R. "Yuta" Baumgardner Jr., 61, of Valley Inn, Monongahela, died unexpectedly Friday, November 27, 1998, at his farm in Somerset County.
He was born December 28, 1936, in New Eagle, a son of the late William R. Baumgardner Sr. and Mable Doty Baumgardner Anctil of New Eagle.
Mr. Baumgardner was a 1954 graduate of Monongahela High School and attended Penn State University, McKeesport campus, majoring in business administration.
He was employed for 25 years for Equitable Gas Co., Ginger Hill, where he worked as a safety inspector.
Mr. Baumgardner was a past president and a board member for Ringgold School Board for more than 12 years.
He was a member of the First Church of the Nazarene and a member of Henry M. Phillips Lodge 337, F&AM, both of Monongahela.
Surviving is his wife, Frances M. Carden Baumgardner, with whom he celebrated 42 years of marriage on May 24.
Also surviving are two sons, Gary Baumgardner of Finleyville and Kenneth Baumgardner of Valley Inn; three grandchildren, Kristy, Rachel and Autumn Baumgardner; and a sister, Mary Sue Sirilla of New Eagle.
Wenonah P. Colton
Chartiers-Houston teacher active in community
Wenonah P. Colton, 62, of Osceola Drive, Bridgeville, died Friday, November 27, 1998, in St. Clair Memorial Hospital, Mt. Lebanon.
She was born January 15, 1936, in Bridgeville, a daughter of the late David and Luola Weldon Poellott.
Mrs. Colton was a lifelong resident of Bridgeville, where she was a 1954 graduate of Lincoln High School, and a member of Bethany Presbyterian Church.
She received her bachelor's degree in secondary education from the University of Pittsburgh, and was a member Phi Mu Sorority. She completed her education at California University of Pennsylvania, where she received her special education certification.
Mrs. Colton taught in Chartiers-Houston School District and at Oakland Center.
She was active in the Bridgeville community, where she was a member of the Bridgeville Community Association, a volunteer at Bridgeville Public Library, past president of Chartiers Valley PTA and a Girl Scout troop leader for many years. She also was a member of the Nature Printing Society of North America.
Surviving are a son, David H. Colton of Bridgeville; two daughters, Deona Miller of Collier Township and Kirsten T. Rogers of Bridgeville; four grandchildren, Nicholas J. and Colton T. Miller, Maylana L. Rogers and Matthew D. Colton.
John C. Descutner Sr.
Former coal miner owned contracting business
John C. Descutner Sr., 79, of McDonald, died Sunday, November 29, 1998, in Allegheny University Hospitals-Canonsburg.
He was born April 7, 1919, in McDonald, a son of John Z. and Mary Cheesbrough Descutner.
He had been a coal miner for Disco Coal. When it closed in 1967, Mr. Descutner founded a contracting business and worked for the O'Hommel, Dravoe and Mallet companies.
He was a member of Calvary Presbyterian Church and United Mine Workers of America.
On February 16, 1941, he married Ruth E. Hardie, who survives.
Also surviving are two sons, John C. Descutner Jr. of Moon Township and William H. Descutner of McDonald; a daughter, Mary Catherine Garrett of McDonald; four grandchildren, Thomas C. Garrett, Laura E. Hendal, Joy L. Descutner and David L. Descutner; and six great-grandchildren.
Deceased are three brothers, Joseph, William and Nesbit Descutner.
Lulu Morant Ellis
Donora homemaker formerly of South Carolina
Lulu Morant Ellis, 92, of Donora, formerly of Eastover, S.C., died Wednesday, November 25, 1998, in Monongahela Valley Hospital.
She was born June 6, 1906, in Florence, S.C., a daughter of John and Carrie Morant.
Mrs. Ellis was a homemaker.
She was member of the First Baptist Church of Donora, a former member and church mother of Mt. Zion Baptist Church of Crescent Heights and a former member of Pleasant Grove Baptist Church of Gadsen, S.C.
Surviving are a son, Ronald McCrae of Donora; seven grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren; and two brothers, Robert Morant of Colombia, S.C., and Belton Morant of Gadsen.
Deceased are her husband, George Ellis, two former husbands, John P. Bynam and James McCrae; and a stepson, Preston McNair.
J. Raymond Filbey
Retired from Columbia Gas Co.
J. Raymond Filbey, 87, of Jefferson R.D.1, died at 6 a.m. Saturday, November 28, 1998, in Bialko's Rest Home, Waynesburg.
He was born September 2, 1911, in Jefferson Township, a son of Jesse M. and Minnie Guesman Filbey.
Mr. Filbey lived all his life in Greene County and was a veteran of World War II, serving with the U.S. Army.
He was a retired employee of Columbia Gas Co. in the Masontown and West Brownsville areas.
On December 7, 1956, he married Goldie Dunn, who died October 5, 1998.
Surviving are nine grandchildren, Edward Allan, William Gary, Richard Lynn, Clarence Edward Jr. and Charles Barry Zollars, Barbara Diana Taylor-Wahter, Karen Sue Heidinger, Deborah Ellen Arnold and Cathy Michelle Rudisill; nine great-grandchildren, several great-great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.
Deceased are a daughter, Betty Jean Zollars; and two brothers, James and Charles Filbey.
Joann K. Kozar
Donora resident, member of Daughters of Scotia
Joann K. Kozar, 61, of 916 McKean Avenue, Donora, died Sunday, November 29, 1998, in her home.
She was born July 2, 1937, in Washington Township, a daughter of the late Orrin and Jean Neil Shick.
Mrs. Kozar was a homemaker and a member of Broomie Knowe Lodge 46, Daughters of Scotia.
Surviving are her husband of 37 years, Charles E. "Pete" Kozar Sr.; a son, Charles E. Kozar Jr. of Monessen; a daughter, Jean Ann Blair of Donora; a sister, Janet Robson of Donora; two brothers, Thomas L. Shick of Vestaburg and Jerry A. Shick of Cleveland, Ohio; and two grandsons, Matthew J. and Nicholas D. Blair.
William E. McCloskey
Self-employed contractor
William E. McCloskey, 84, of Wilson Road, Washington, died at 11:55 p.m. Saturday, November 28, 1998, in Washington Hospital.
He was born February 12, 1914, in Washington, a son of Harry McCloskey and Mary McMurdy McCloskey Mattax.
He was a self-employed contractor and a member of Fourth Presbyterian Church, Washington.
Mr. McCloskey attended Washington High School and the University of Pittsburgh.
He served in the U.S. Marine Corps.
He was twice married. In 1948, he married Sara Luella Matlock, who died July 30, 1966. On January 18, 1975, he married Leru Herron, who survives.
Also surviving are two daughters, Laraine Godsey of Harrisburg, N.C., and Bonnie Ellen McCloskey of Washington; two brothers, Raymond and Bernard McCloskey, both of Washington; a sister, Eva Grace Burke of Washington; four grandchildren, Michael Gillis, Dianna Lamb, Deidre Dennick and Derek Dennick; and two great-grandchildren.
A sister, Olive Swierczek, is deceased.
Charles McCune Sr.
Driver for Blaney Farms Trucking Inc., Perryopolis
Charles "Ed" McCune Sr., 60, of Voyager Estates, West Newton, died Saturday, November 28, 1998, in St. Francis Medical Center, Pittsburgh.
He was born August 14, 1938, in Pittsburgh, a son of the late Harry Edward McCune and Mildred Wilkinson McCune Slatervach.
Mr. McCune was Catholic and a former resident of McKeesport.
At the time of his death, he was employed as a driver for Blaney Farms Trucking Inc. of Perryopolis and was formerly employed by Stag Construction of Belle Vernon and Pittsburgh Flexicore of Monongahela.
He served in the U.S. Army as a paratrooper during peacetime.
Surviving are his wife, Paula Kiefer Homler McCune; two sons, Harold L. Homler of Canonsburg and Charles E. McCune Jr. of McKeesport; a daughter, Amy R. Homler of Daisytown; two stepdaughters, Leanne Thomas and Pamela Dukic, both of McKeesport; two grandchildren, Mallory Bradley and Patyn McCune; a sister, Arlene Hartman of Pittsburgh; and several nieces and nephews.
A sister, Dorothy Kemp, is deceased.
Joseph Nagy Sr.
School bus driver later worked at the Meadows
Joseph Nagy Sr., 81, of Chartiers Run Road, Canonsburg, died Saturday, November 28, 1998, in his home, following an illness of several months.
He was born April 16, 1917, in Core, W.Va.
Mr. Nagy worked as a driver for the former Safeway Dry Cleaners and Hi Hat Cleaners, both of Houston. He drove a school bus for Schweinebraten Bus Co. and Canon-McMillan School District, and until his illness, he worked in the maintenance department of Ladbroke at the Meadows.
He was a veteran of World War II, serving in the U.S. Army.
On January 21, 1942, he married Ethel Faye Tilger, who died September 29, 1985.
Surviving are a son, Joseph Nagy Jr. of Canonsburg; two daughters, Donna George of Houston and Linda Brytus of Washington; three grandchildren, Michael, Lora and Lynne George; a brother, Albert Nagy Sr. of Houston; and a sister, Ethel Pater of Pittsburgh.
Deceased are two brothers, Frank and Edward Nagy.
Jason Blaine Pavlik
Burgettstown High School student
Jason Blaine Pavlik, 17, of Burgettstown, died Saturday, November 28, 1998, in Children's Hospital, Pittsburgh.
He was born July 6, 1981, in Weirton, W.Va., a son of Michael J. and Lois J. McCutcheon Pavlik of Burgettstown.
Jason was a ninth-grade student at Burgettstown High School, where he sang in the high school choir.
He was a member of the Beaver County Stockman Club F.H. Group and attended Paris Presbyterian Church.
Surviving, in addition to his parents, are a brother, Michael, and a sister, Jennifer, both at home; and his maternal grandmother, Margaret J. McCutcheon of Burgettstown.
Deceased are his maternal grandfather, Francis McCutcheon; and his paternal grandparents, Alex and Pauline Giglio Pavlik.
John R. Pettit Sr.
Jessop Steel retiree served in WWII
John R. Pettit Sr., 75, of East Avenue, Washington, died at 3:50 p.m. Saturday, November 28, 1998, in Washington Hospital.
He was born February 9, 1923, in Wolfdale, a son of Silas and Catherine Flynn Pettit.
He was a member of First Christian Church, Washington.
Prior to his retirement, Mr. Pettit was employed by Jessop Steel for 30 years.
He was disabled during World War II in Germany, where he served in the U.S. Army as a staff sergeant.
On October 6, 1941, he married Martha Zaharoff, who survives.
Also surviving are two sons, John R. Pettit Jr. of Gas City, Ind., and James G. Pettit of Washington; a brother, William S. Pettit of Mt. Morris; a sister, Catherine Hague Keeling of Washington; five grandchildren, Trisanne Lamb, Rebecca Lynn Sharp, Judith Ann Pettit, John R. Pettit III and Timothy James Pettit; three great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.
Deceased are three sisters, Anna Loughman, Olive Pettit Cole and Carrie Mae McCaffrey; and three brothers, Grover and Elsworth Pettit and James Danley.
Gertrude P. Phillips
Ohio resident born in Clover Hill
Gertrude Pryor Phillips, 86, died Friday, November 27, 1998, in Maplewood Care Center, Streetsboro, Ohio.
She was born September 22, 1912, in Clover Hill, a daughter of Simeon Pryor and Jennie Cambell, and was raised by her stepmother, Lara Pryor.
Surviving are a daughter, Barbara Gray of Streetsboro; two sons, Joseph R. Phillips of Brunswick, Ohio, and Simeon Phillips of Canton, Ohio; six grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren.
Deceased is her husband, Joseph, who died in 1966.
Carl L. Price
WWII veteran from Burgettstown
Carl L. Price, 69, of Burgettstown, died Friday, November 27, 1998, in Veterans Administration Hospital, Oakland Division, Pittsburgh.
He was born January 1, 1929, in Slovan, a son of Albert and Margaret Webster Price.
Mr. Price served with the U.S. Army during World War II.
Surviving are a brother, William Price of Burgettstown; and several nieces and nephews.
Deceased are four brothers, Clarence, Howard, Cassius and Albert; and three sisters, Dorothy and Margaret Price and Irene Williams.
William Rapsack Jr.
Retired from W-P Steel and Stauffer Chemical
William Rapsack Jr., 70, of Van Voorhis, died Wednesday, November 25, 1998, at his home.
He was born December 29, 1927, in Westmoreland County, a son of William Sr. and Ella Marie Brown Rapsack.
Mr. Rapsack retired as a supervisor from Wheeling-Pittsburgh Steel Corp., Monessen Mill, and later worked and retired from Stauffer Chemical in Monongahela.
During World War II, he served with the Merchant Marines and later with the U.S. Army.
Mr. Rapsack was a member and past president of Eagles Club 1809 of Bentleyville and a member of the Lithuanian Club, Polish Club and Pensioners Club, all of Bentleyville, and the American Legion of Dunkirk.
Surviving are a daughter, Anna Marie Dunne of Las Vegas, Nev.; and two grandchildren, Beau and Melissa Mayhew.
Deceased are his wife, Jennie Rapsack; and a son, William James Rapsack.
Nellie A. Reed
Fort Vance Historical Society researcher
Nellie Angeline Sunday Reed, 87, of Primrose, died Friday, November 27, 1998, in St. Clair Memorial Hospital, Mt. Lebanon.
She was born June 4, 1911, in Primrose, a daughter of Jon and Julia Neshu Sunday.
Mrs. Reed was a homemaker and a member of St. Alphonsus Roman Catholic Church and its Blue Army.
She was a former member of Fort Vance Historical Society. She did historical research on the Reed and Cherry families, of which she was a member. The Cherry family were the original builders of the Fort Cherry stockade in Cherry Valley.
Surviving are three daughters, Catherine R. Kenneweg and Dorothy R. Gunther, both of McDonald, and Loretta R. Kendall of Candor; two brothers, Stanley Sunday of Pittsburgh and Walter Sunday of Zelienopole; 10 grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.
Deceased are her husband, Charles H. Reed, who died October of 1973; and a daughter, Angeline Reed.
Thomas S. Shronovich
WWII veteran was commercial airline pilot
Thomas Scott Shronovich, 77, of Airport Road, Eighty Four, died at 10 p.m. Saturday, November 28, 1998, in his home following a six-month illness.
He was born October 10, 1921, in Cokeburg, a son of Thomas Scott and Anna Zitkovic Shronovich.
He was a 1940 graduate of Bentleyville High School and received his initial pilot training from Belle Vernon Airport.
During World War II, Mr. Shronovich served with the U.S. Army Air Corps 2nd and 4th Division as a gunner instructor and a member of the Standardization Board.
From 1940 to 1942 and 1946 to 1951, he was a welder for Ontario Mine. In 1951, he became a DC-3 co-pilot with Capital Airlines, Pittsburgh. He continued his flying career with United Airlines as a DC-8 captain until his retirement October 10, 1981.
Mr. Shronovich was a private flight instructor and organizer of the "Ramrods," who established the first Washington, D.C.-based domicile "Fly In" held at Frederick County (Md.) Airport.
He served as a past president of the Retired United Airline Employee Association. He was a member of the Retired United Airline Pilots Association, Capital Airlines Employees Association, Croatian Fraternal Union, Cokeburg, and Nemacolin County Club, Beallsville.
On December 5, 1942, he married Mauvoreen E. "Rusty" Brooks, who survives.
Also surviving are a daughter, Judith E. Donaldson of Eighty Four; two brothers, Frank Shronovich of Eighty Four and George Shronovich of Avella; two sisters, Agnes Gruhalla and Kay Shumaker, both of Eighty Four; a granddaughter, Erica Nicole Donaldson; and several nieces and nephews.
Deceased is a sister, Mary Lustik.
Howard R. Smith Sr.
Electrical tester for McGraw-Edison
Howard R. Smith Sr., 71, of Grant Street, Houston, died Friday, November 27, 1998, at home.
He was born October 8, 1927, in Canonsburg, a son of George W. Smith and Mary P. Bails Smith Phillips.
Mr. Smith was an electrical tester for McGraw-Edison and belonged to the United Methodist Church in Houston.
He was a member of the Muse Independent Club, American Legion Post 902 of Houston, White Eagles, Eagles Club and Westland Sportsman's Club.
On October 15, 1949, he married Elsie Hall Smith, who survives.
Also surviving are two sons, Howard Smith Jr. and Patrick Smith, both of Sylmar, Calif.; two daughters, Judy Loar of Washington and Cindy Black of Phoenix, Ariz.; six grandchildren, Jason A., Robert L., Erik A., William H. and Lindsey D. Black and Megan M. Smith; three great-grandchildren; and a sister, Margaret "Skip" Wilson of Lakeland, Fla.
Deceased is a brother, George A. Smith.
Dorothy Jean Berg
Bobbie Brooks supervisor for 18 years
Dorothy Jean Berg, 67, of Washington, died at 3 p.m. Monday, November 2, 1998, in Washington Hospital following a two-year illness.
She was born January 28, 1931, in Canonsburg, a daughter of Charles and Julia Papp Toth.
Mrs. Berg was Presbyterian.
She attended Canonsburg schools, and had been employed for 18 years as a supervisor at Bobbie Brooks.
She was last employed by Paradise Candy Shop.
Mrs. Berg was a volunteer for the American Cancer Society in the Relay for Life and was an election poll worker for years.
On February 28, 1948, she married George William "Bill" Berg, who died January 16, 1992.
Surviving are two sons, William J. Berg of Washington and David E. Berg of Washington; two daughters, Linda Engle of Albany, Ind., and Diane Dombrowski of Avella; four sisters, Lillian Inverso of Washington, Margaret Frank of Washington, Priscilla Cantrell of Washington and Lydia Vinosky of Ft. Myers, Fla.; eight grandchildren, Harry Engle, Mike Engle, Shawn Engle, Cyndi Engle, Stephen Berg, Jonathan Berg, Justin Berg and Sarah Dombrowski; and seven great-grandchildren.
Deceased are two brothers, William and Charles Toth; and two sisters, Betty Frank and Mary Toth.
Sophie D. Matyuf
Lifelong Canonsburg resident enjoyed traveling
Sophie Dzikowicz (Jackson) Matyuf, 92, of 123 White Way, Canonsburg, died at 10:25 p.m. Monday, November 2, 1998.
She was born April 3, 1906, in Carnegie, a daughter of Joseph and Mary Bartazal Dzikowicz (Jackson).
Mrs. Matyuf was a lifelong resident of Canonsburg, where she was a member of St. John's Russian Orthodox Church and its Ladies Altar Society.
She was a member of Greater Canonsburg Senior Citizens. She also was a homemaker and enjoyed traveling.
Her husband, Peter Matyuf, died February 6, 1983.
Surviving are four daughters, Dorothy Sedlak of Parma, Ohio, Mary Ann Zupancic and Loretta Matyuf, both of Canonsburg, and Dolores Schinosi of South Park; eight grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
Deceased are three brothers, Adam, Anthony and John Jackson; and two sisters, Katherine Jackson and Helen Urbanic. Mrs. Matyuf was the last of her immediate family.
Wilma C. Ross
Coal Center homemaker
Wilma Christina Huhn Ross, 78, of Coal Center, West Pike Run Township, died Monday, November 2, 1998, in Presbyterian Medical Center, Washington.
She was born October 13, 1920, in Elco, a daughter of Kurt Huhn and Hilda Binkney Huhn Harper.
Mrs. Ross was a homemaker and attended the former Clover Hill United Methodist Church.
On November 30, 1940, in Cumberland, Md., she married Donald Stephen Ross, who died July 9, 1993.
Surviving are three sons, David Ross of Belpre, Ohio, Larry Lee Ross of Yakima, Wash., and Dale Thomas Ross of Coal Center; a daughter, Linda Puskarich of Marianna; a brother, Ross Huhn of Stockdale; 15 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.
Deceased are a grandson, Robert Puskarich; and a sister, Gloria Krivacek.
Louis Edward Spossey
Longtime barber in Washington
Patrons of Spossey's Hair Center in Washington say they will miss the quick efficient snips of Louis Edward Spossey's scissors during his infamous dry haircuts, which were always peppered with a little Washington gossip and plenty of political discussion.
Spossey, 89, a barber for more than 70 years, died at 10:45 a.m. Tuesday in Washington Hospital following a 10-day illness.
"He loved to discuss politics," said his son, Washington Mayor L. Anthony "Sonny" Spossey, who has worked with his father at the shop at 530 W. Chestnut St. for the past 43 years. "It's fitting he died on Election Day. He's probably up there running around to all the polls."
Spossey said his father learned to give quick haircuts when his shop was at the old West Chestnut Street train station, now converted into an office building.
"People used to stop there and they would have a quick haircut and a shave between trains, so he was very fast," Spossey said. "I've seen him do it in eight minutes, maximum 15."
Over the years, Louis Spossey, who lived on Duncan Avenue, moved his shop farther and farther up West Chestnut Street. He started out in the 300 block. Several years later he moved to the 400 block. He moved to the 500 block about 25 years ago.
Mr. Spossey rarely took vacations and worked at the barber shop up until his illness 10 days ago. He worked Tuesdays through Saturdays with his son and granddaughter, Lisa Spossey-Gorby.
Mr. Spossey's regular customers and family members describe his work ethic and loyalty to his customers and all remember plenty of good talks.
"I have a father-in-law who's 97 years old who's in a home. Louie would go over to the home on his day off, on a Monday, and cut his hair," said Lawrence "Bruz" Miller of North Franklin, a regular at Spossey's for the past 25 years.
"It was satisfaction and good treatment. We just talked about his life and politics and good times," said Wendel Gower of Washington, another longtime customer.
When not at his shop, Mr. Spossey spent his evenings with his wife, Margaret Spossey, whom he married July 4, 1934. She has been a patient in Washington County Health Center's Alzheimer's unit for the past three years.
Mr. Spossey was a member of Immaculate Conception Church, Washington, and its Holy Name Society.
Also surviving in addition to his wife, son and granddaughter, are a daughter, Bernadette Adams of Washington; a brother, Anthony Spossey of Syracuse, N.Y., a sister, Elvira Mancuso of Washington; and four grandchildren, Mark and Wray Spossey and James and Brad Bissell; and nine great-grandchildren.
Deceased are a brother, Alfred Spossey, and four sisters, Mary Sardella, Carmella Marie Molla, Erma Manti and Mildred Thomas.
Frances Jean Stewart
Employed at Waynesburg Restaurant
Frances Jean Stewart, 56, of Waynesburg, formerly of Wind Ridge, died at 12:10 p.m. Tuesday, November 3, 1998, in the Greene County Memorial Hospital emergency room after a lengthy illness.
She was born March 25, 1942, in Fredericktown, a daughter of Harry and Jan Fowler Sellers. She had been a resident of Wind Ridge and the Greene County area most of her life.
Mrs. Stewart was Protestant.
She attended Center Township High School, and in her later years earned her general education diploma.
Mrs. Steward was an active member of Waynesburg Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 4793 Auxiliary and the F.O.E. Auxiliary Lodge 598 in Waynesburg for more than 20 years.
She was an avid bingo player and enjoyed reading, doing jigsaw puzzles and spending time with her grandchildren.
Mrs. Stewart was a former employee of Waynesburg Restaurant. She was last employed as a housekeeper for the late Dorothy Davis of Waynesburg for more than 15 years prior to retiring due to ill health.
Surviving are a daughter, Katrina F. Shriver of Waynesburg; four sons, Monty V. Stewart and Carson E. Stewart, both of Waynesburg, Keith J. Stewart of Carmichaels and Brett J. Stewart of Williamsport; three sisters, Sarah McGinnley of Pittsburgh, June Herring of Waynesburg and Ruth Ealy of Claysville; two brothers, James Sellers of Lansing, Mich., and John Sellers of Rogersville; and 14 grandchildren.
Deceased are a grandchild, Jason Stewart; and a brother, Russell H. Stewart
CORRECTION
Incorrect information was provided for the obituary of Frances Jean Stewart, published Wednesday. Her mother's name was Jean Fowler Sellers, and her deceased brother's name was Russell H. Sellers.
John Joseph Zelinski
Retired from New Eagle Borough
John Joseph "Beany" Zelinski, 76, of New Eagle, died Tuesday, November 3, 1998, at his home.
He was born January 11, 1922, in Sykesville, a son of Walter and Bernice Maholtz Zelinski.
Mr. Zelinski was a member of Transfiguration Church of Monongahela.
He was a veteran of World War II, serving in the U.S. Army. He also was a retired street commissioner for New Eagle.
He was a member of American Legion, Frank Downer Post 302, Monongahela.
Surviving is his wife, Helen Molnar Zelinski, with whom he celebrated 52 years of marriage on February 9, 1998.
Also surviving are a son, John J. Zelinski Jr. of Hueytown, Ala.; a daughter, Mary Ann Zelinski of Charleroi; two grandsons, Jason and Jarrod Zelinski; and several nieces and nephews.
Deceased are a brother, Walter Zelinski; and a sister, Veronica Levandosky.
Bob Trow
"Mister Rogers'" Troll
NEW ALEXANDRIA (AP) - Bob Trow, who portrayed Robert Troll, Bob Dog and himself for some 30 years on "Mister Rogers' Neighborhood," and who contributed countless sketches before that for morning radio in Pittsburgh, has died. He was 72.
Trow died Monday of a heart attack at his home in New Alexandria in Westmoreland County.
He taped appearances for Mister Rogers' Neighborhood just last week.
"He was such an integral part of the Pittsburgh broadcasting family," Fred Rogers said.
"And to have been able to work with him last Tuesday and Thursday. One of the last things he said to me was, 'Thank you for having me, Fred,"' Rogers said.
The episodes taped last week will air in February as part of a lesson on noisy and quiet.
"He was an enormous talent, and for him to have been able to offer that to children through the neighborhood all through these years was a great gift," Rogers said.
Rege Cordic gave Trow his start in broadcasting after hearing his musical group, which combined song and humor.
Cordic brought Trow into Cordic and Company, first on WWSW and then on KDKA, using invented characters to harass the host to the great amusement of morning commuters.
Popular characters included Carmen Monoxide, an incorrigible punster; Omicron, a bureaucrat from Venus; and Louie Adamchevitz, a Slav garbageman. Cordic's team even began a Monoxide for president campaign.
Trow "made wonderful election speeches: I never made a promise that I kept and I don't intend to start now," said Cordic, who is retired and living on the West Coast. "Those were the golden years. And Bob was part of the gold."
People still ask Trow's son Eric, who is creative director for the Brabender Cox advertising firm, if he is related to Bob.
"They remember riding in a car on the Parkway, they'd be laughing and turn and see the guy in the next car laughing," said Eric Trow, who has done voice-over work since he was a child.
Trow also wrote and produced television and radio commercials, and painted oil portraits of visitors to his home.
"He was an extremely talented man and one who had more facets to his creativity than anyone I know. And yet, he was very self-effacing," said David Crantz, a promotions director for WTAE-TV who is now retired.
Another son, Rob Trow, also works in broadcasting as a studio vocalist and voice-over talent in Chicago.
Trow also was survived by his wife of 18 years, Lois, and two grandchildren.
Visitation will be Wednesday and Thursday at the P. David Newhouse Funeral Home in New Alexandria.
Services were scheduled for 11 a.m. Friday at the Reformed Presbyterian Church in New Alexandria, followed by internment in Union Cemetery.
Donald R. Berty
On Montour Trail board and district BSA
Donald R. Berty, 69, of Cecil, died Tuesday November 3, 1988, in Allegheny University Hospitals-Canonsburg.
He was born October 28, 1929, in Cecil, a son of Jack and Oella Collins Berty.
Prior to his retirement, Mr. Berty was employed at Cyclops Corporation in Bridgeville.
He served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War, and was a member of Cecil American Legion Post 793, where he served as sergeant-at-arms.
Mr. Berty was a district commissioner of the Boy Scouts of America, a member of the board of directors of the Montour Trail, a member of Cecil Township parks and recreation board and a member of Cecil Township Friends of the Trail.
On June 4, 1951, in St. Mary's Roman Catholic Church in Cecil, he married Joan Vidmar, who survives.
Also surviving are a daughter, Kim DeGennaro of Canonsburg; two sons, Greg Berty of Clarksville, Tenn., and Dennis Berty of Cecil; five grandchildren, Jason, Tim and Melissa Berty, and Gina and Cory DeGennaro; two sisters, Arlene Manley of Mesa, Ariz., and Lucille Pesavento of Hopewell Junction, N.Y.; and a brother, John J. Berty of Colorado Springs, Colo.
Walton Bioni
Finleyville resident retired from Pittsburgh Coal
Walton Bioni, 84, of Finleyville, died Tuesday, November 3, 1998, in Mercy Hospital, Pittsburgh.
He was born July 30, 1914, in Imperial, a son of Dominic and Martha Pape Bioni.
Mr. Bioni was a retired motorman for Montour 4 Division of Pittsburgh Coal.
He was a member of Peters Creek United Presbyterian Church of Venetia, and a member of the SNPJ Lodge in Lawrence.
Surviving are his wife, Thelma V. Bioni of Finleyville; two sons, Walter L. Bioni of Plantation, Fla., and Clarence A. Bioni of New Jersey; three daughters, Hazel M. Zupancic of Linthicum, Md., Beverly J. Hood of Orlando, Fla., and Janis A. Hostovich of Finleyville; two brothers, Theodore Bioni of Claysville and Angelo Bioni of Lawrence; a sister, Dolores Aiello of Bridgeville; ten grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
Deceased is a sister, May DeFillippo.
Margaret L. Dragone
Resident of Fallowfield Township
Margaret Louella Dragone, 68, of Fallowfield Township, Charleroi, died Wednesday, November 4, 1998, in Monongahela Valley Hospital, Carroll Township.
She was born January 5, 1930, in Centerville, a daughter of Leonal and Margaret Tucker Griffith.
Mrs. Dragone was a 1949 graduate of Centerville High School and a graduate of Douglas Business School. She was formerly employed at Model Cleaners in Monessen.
She enjoyed playing bingo.
Surviving are three sons, Robert James, at home; James Michael of Ohio and Jeffrey Dragone of Charleroi; two daughters, Margaret Flint of Monongahela and Patricia Rostosky of Finleyville; five grandchildren, Becky and Sammy Flint and Tina, Joshua and Edward James Dragone; a brother, Leonal "Jr." Griffith of Monongahela; two sisters, Elma Monack of Coal Center and Marion Ingram of Monongahela.
Her husband, James Dragone Jr., died on December 5, 1997.
Memorial contributions may be made to Mingo Creek Presbyterian Church, 561 Mingo Church Road, Finleyville, PA 15332.
Robert Fordanich
Monessen restaurant owner from Valley Inn
Robert Fordanich, 67, of Highland Street, Monongahela (Valley Inn), died Wednesday, November 4, 1998, in Monongahela Valley Hospital.
He was born January 12, 1931, in Monessen, a son of Charles and Mary Rovnak Fordanich.
Mr. Fordanich lived most of his life in Monongahela and Valley Inn and was Catholic.
He served in the U.S. Navy.
Mr. Fordanich owned and operated the former Johnson's Restaurant in Monessen, and was formerly employed at Grief Brothers and Associated Box Co., both of New Eagle.
He was a member of Arroas Haymakers 2531/2 of New Eagle.
Surviving are his wife, Elizabeth Rathi Fordanich; a daughter, Mary (Bobbie) Leezer of Monongahela; a grandson, Jesse Leezer; two sisters, Edna Majerick of Eldora and Dolores "Babe" Monosky of Monessen; and a brother, James Fordanich of Monessen.
Deceased are his first wife, Maxine Richie; and four brothers, Edward, Don, William and Henry Fordanich.
Mitchell James Harton
Worked at Lou Reda's Restaurant
Mitchell James Harton, 64, of West Walnut Street, Washington, died at 11:40 a.m. Wednesday, November 4, 1998, in his home.
He was born December 31, 1933, in Washington, a son of Harry and Myrtle May Cunningham Harton.
Mr. Harton was a graduate of Washington High School, and served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War in Korea.
He was employed at Hazel Atlas Glass Plant 1 for 28 years, and was last employed by Lou Reda's Restaurant in Washington for 12 years.
Surviving are two brothers, Harry and Gaylord Harton, both of Washington; two sisters, Dorothy Gergosky of Muse and Sara Lomax of Danville, Ill.
Deceased are two brothers, Warren and Robert Harton; and two sisters, Ethel Amos and Nora Plants.
Jay M. Jeffrey
Eighty Four man worked for Joy Manufacturing
Jay McCarnell Jeffrey, 71, of Eighty Four, died Wednesday, November 4, 1998, in Allegheny University Hospitals, Canonsburg.
He was born March 27, 1927, in Rea, a son of John Ralph and Ina Ahrns Jeffrey.
Mr. Jeffrey worked as a warehouseman for Joy Manufacturing.
He was a member of Thomas Presbyterian Church.
Surviving are his wife, Virginia Thomas Jeffrey; two sons, Keith Alan Jeffrey of West Mifflin and Kevin Neal Jeffrey at home; three daughters, Karen Sue Dickey of Fredericktown, Kathy Lee Henderson of Carnegie and Kim Renee Bedner of Charleroi; a brother, Carl M. Jeffrey of Penn Hills; and five grandchildren.
Deceased are three brothers, Kermit, Dwight and Warren Jeffrey; and a sister, Gladys Kleber.
Betty Lee Morris
Waynesburg resident
Betty Lee Morris, 75, of Waynesburg, died at 6:05 p.m. Tuesday, November 3, 1998, in Washington Hospital, after a lengthy illness.
She was born July 25, 1923, in Rutan, a daughter of Jacob and Fannie McNeely Morris.
Mrs. Morris lived most of her life in Waynesburg, where she was a member of First Christian Church. For the past 13 years, she was a resident of Franklin Care Center in Waynesburg.
Surviving are two sisters, Elsie Edgar of Prosperity R.D.2 and Mary Belle McClure of Smock; and several nieces and nephews.
Deceased are five brothers, Earle, Floyd, Raymond, Ed and Carl Morris; a sister, Pauline Morris; and two infant siblings.
Fannie E. Mruk
St. Michael Byzantine Church member
Fannie Elizabeth Mruk, 65, of Washington, died at 6:10 p.m. Wednesday November 4, 1998, in her home. She had been ill since March.
She was born January 24, 1933, in Strabane, a daughter of the late Walter Clinton and Ann Marie Cambell Toland.
Mrs. Mruk was a homemaker and a member of St. Michael Byzantine Church in Canonsburg.
On July 19, 1952, she married George Louis Mruk, who survives.
Also surviving are two sons, Ronald S. Mruk Sr. of Plum Borough and James Clinton Mruk of Louisville, Ky.; a daughter, Sandra McCormick of Cincinnati, Ohio; two sisters, Ethel Kelley of Auburn, Wash., and Dolories Simpson of Canonsburg; eight grandchildren, Harper, Tara, Ronald S. Jr., Joseph, Mary Elizabeth and Anastasia Mruk and Ryne and Amber McCormick; and several nieces and nephews.
Deceased is a grandson, Preston Tyler McCormick.
Richard E. Prince
Retired president of Ohio Valley Steel
Richard E. Prince, 86, of Washington, died Tuesday, November 3, 1998, in his home.
He was born October 28, 1912, in Columbus, Ohio, a son of Frank and Mary Prince.
Mr. Prince graduated from Ohio State University in 1934 with a degree in architectural engineering. During his senior year, he was accepted into the National Honorary Engineering Society, Tau Beta Pi.
In 1935, in Columbus, Ohio, he married Barbara Payne Prince, who is deceased.
During World War II, he served as a field artillery officer in the European Theater. At the end of the war, he held the rank of Major and was commanding a battalion.
After the war, he returned to work for J.T. Edwards Co. in Columbus, Ohio, progressing through the positions of chief engineer, chief estimator and sales manager.
In 1956, Mr. Prince purchased an interest in Ohio Valley Steel Co., in Wheeling, W.Va., where he was initially company vice president and later president. He retired in 1978.
In 1971, in Wheeling, W.Va., he married his second wife, Dorothy Savchuk Prince, who is deceased.
During his approximately 40 years in Wheeling, he was a member of St. Matthew's Episcopal Church, serving on the vestry. He moved to Washington in 1996.
Surviving are his wife, Mildred; her children, Ronald G., Robert E. and Keith O. Sten and Peggy A. Northrop; children with his first wife, Nancy Cayce and Col. William F. Prince; and 13 grandchildren.
A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, November 21, in St. Matthew's Episcopal Church, Wheeling, W.Va. Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society or to St. Matthew's Episcopal Church, 1410 Chaplin Street, Wheeling, W.Va.
Sophie Schilinski
Member of Our Lady of Lourdes, Burgettstown
Sophie Schilinski, 90, of Slovan, died Wednesday, November 4, 1998, in Washington County Health Center.
She was born December 25, 1907, in Manifold, a daughter of Anthony and Frances McNatch
Mrs. Schilinski was a homemaker and a member of Our Lady of Lourdes Roman Catholic Church in Burgettstown.
Surviving are a son, Thomas A. Schilinski of Slovan; a daughter, Florence Visnich of Slovan; a sister, Helen Nightengale of Irondale, Ohio; five grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild.
Deceased are her husband, Thomas Schilinski, who died in 1976; and three sisters, Anna Yorkin, Josephine Kopp and Hattie Smith.
Emma Jane Smith
A member of St. Paul AME Church
Emma Jane Smith, 92, of Schenley Heights, Pittsburgh, originally from Washington, died Tuesday, November 3, 1998.
She was born February 12, 1906, in Washington, a daughter of Harry and Theresa Vactor Jaxson.
Mrs. Smith was a member of St. Paul AME Church, Washington.
She attended schools in Washington, and was retired from Peoples Gas Co., Pittsburgh.
She was twice married. She was first married to Louis Smith, who died in 1943. In 1969 she married Edward Terance, who died in 1974.
Surviving are a daughter, Barbara Robinson Eubanks of Virginia; a sister, Zeata Smith of Washington; and one grandson, Xavier Eubanks.
Deceased are 11 brothers and sisters; and one daughter, Joyce Hall.
Lena G. Berardi
Member of Our Lady of Consolation Parish
Lena G. Berardi, 74, of Nemacolin, died at 9:57 p.m. Wednesday, November 4, 1998, in Greene County Memorial Hospital, Waynesburg.
She was born December 18, 1923, in Crucible, a daughter of Albert and Mary DiFigio Roman.
Mrs. Berardi resided in Cumberland Township all of her life and was a 1941 graduate of Cumberland Township High School in Carmichaels. She was employed in her early life at Greenway Manufacturing in Waynesburg.
Mrs. Berardi was a member of Our Lady of Consolation Parish in Nemacolin and the Rosary Society of the church; and also was a member of the Ladies Auxiliary of American Legion Post 816 of Rices Landing.
Her husband, Hugo J. Berardi, whom she married August 20, 1944, in Fort Meyers, Fla., survives.
Also surviving are two sons, David V. Berardi of Alexandria, Va., and Hugo J. Berardi of Carmichaels; two daughters, Maria B. Lawrence of Reston, Va., and Bernadette B. Kramer of Hobe Sound, Fla.; six grandchildren, John and Paul Hunter, Christian and Morgan Berardi and Elaine and Meghan Wood; a brother, Robert Roman of Warren; seven sisters, Florence Otto of Tower Hill, Lillian Patrick of Brownsville, Julia Cvetan of Crucible, Rose Hoover of Denbo, Ann Bendt of Baltimore, Md., Rose Marie O'Brochta of Mentor, Ohio, and Mary Jane Bohlman of Sugarland, Texas; and several nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by a sister, Mae Jacobucci.
John M. Cox
World War II veteran was electrician
John M. Cox, 79, of Waynesburg, died at 8:20 a.m. Thursday, November 5, 1998, in Greene County Memorial Hospital, Waynesburg.
He was born August 30, 1919, in Franklin Township, a son of John M. Cox Sr. and Alta Stewart Cox.
Mr. Cox served five years in the Armed Services. He first served as a member of the National Guard and then joined Company K of Waynesburg, serving in the European Theater as a first lieutenant in communications. He saw action in the Battle of the Bulge, where he earned three battle stars.
He was a charter member of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 4793, a 50-year member of American Legion Post 330, a member of the American Association of Retired Persons and a member of the National Rifleman's Association.
Mr. Cox was a member of International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local No. 5 as an electrician for more than 40 years.
He enjoyed gardening.
On February 26, 1944, he married Edith Floyd, who survives.
Also surviving are two daughters, Carolyn F. Bittner and Joann E. Mayhew, both of Morgantown, W.Va.; a son, John F. Cox of Waynesburg; seven grandchildren; and a great-grandchild.
A brother, Charles Cox, is deceased.
Florence M. Ford
Born in Blaine Township
Florence M. Ford, 74, of Washington, died Thursday, November 5, 1998, in Washington Hospital after a lengthy illness.
She was born March 13, 1924, in Blaine Township, a daughter of Frank B. and Edith Collier Dunkle.
Mrs. Ford was Protestant. She was a homemaker.
On August 24, 1948, in Washington, she married Merle W. Ford, who died June 14, 1993.
Surviving are four daughters, Carol L. Smith and Cheryl C. Rush, both of Washington, Darlene K. Hadix of Washington, with whom she made her home, and Cynthia L. Linton of Scenery Hill; two brothers, Roy G. Dunkle and Robert E. Dunkle, both of Washington; six grandchildren, Rochelle L. Heider, William S. Rush, Dani R. Rush, Brian M. and Daniel E. Hadix and Bernard W. Smith Jr.; one great-granddaughter; and several nieces and nephews.
Deceased, in addition to her husband, are a sister, Ila E. Meloy; and two brothers, Alvin K. Dunkile and Frank Delbert Dunkle.
Paul Giovanini
Avid golfer and WWII veteran
Paul Giovanini, 74, of Green Street, Houston, died Thursday, November 5, 1998, in Washington Hospital.
He was born March 24, 1924, in Meadow Lands, a son of Joseph and Mary Pauline Giovanini.
Mr. Giovanini, who qualified as an amateur for the U.S. Open, was an avid golfer and longtime member of Washington County Country Club.
He was also a veteran of World War II, having served with the U.S. Army.
Surviving are his wife, Lillian Guglielmi Giovanini; two daughters, Paula Pittenger of Duluth, Ga., and Mary Fowler of Wexford; four grandchildren, Lauren and Richard Pittenger and Anne and Andrew Fowler; two sisters, Margaret Kovatch of Canonsburg and Cleda Simpson of Chicago, Ill.; and several nieces and nephews.
Mildred H. Graham
Formerly of Washington
Mildred H. Graham, 87, of Doylestown, formerly of Washington, died Wednesday, November 4, 1998, in Doylestown Hospital.
She was born January 11, 1911, in Mt. Pleasant, a daughter of Charles P. and Margaret E. Klein Hensler.
While a resident of Washington, Mrs. Graham was a member of Immaculate Conception Church, where she was a member of Christian Mothers and of the Parish Council.
Mrs. Graham was a graduate of Seton Hill Academy and of St. Francis Hospital School of Nursing. She belonged to Washington County Medical Auxiliary and was a member of the Neighborhood House Association, Washington Art Association, Washington and Jefferson Auxiliary and Washington Hospital Auxiliary.
On June 23, 1934, in Washington, she married Marshall William Graham who died December 9, 1977.
Surviving are three daughters, Patricia Shirkness of Doylestown, Margaret Trahiotis of Canton, Conn., and Mary Carney of Portland, Ore.; one brother, Francis Hensler of Pittsburgh; one sister, Sister Mary Hensler of Greensburg; 10 grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.
Deceased, in addition to her husband, are three brothers, Monsignor Carl P., Joseph and John Hensler; and a sister, Cecilia Johnson.
Elizabeth A. Haskey
1959 graduate of Immaculate Conception HS
Elizabeth A. "Babe" Haskey, 58, of 171 West Wylie Avenue, Washington, died at 2:46 a.m. Thursday, November 5, 1998, in Washington Hospital following a six-month illness.
She was born August 18, 1940, in Washington, a daughter of Sarah Thomas Kovacicek of Washington and the late Joseph Kovacicek.
Mrs. Haskey was a homemaker.
She was a 1959 graduate of Immaculate Conception High School. She enjoyed spending time with her family and was an avid dartball fan.
On March 7, 1981, she married Charles J. Haskey Sr., who survives.
Also surviving are five sons, James R. May III, Michael J. and Russell May, Charles J. Haskey Jr. and Joseph R. Haskey, all of Washington; two daughters, Jackie May of Sunbury and Tracy L. Denman of Washington; two sisters, Rose Ann Wolf of Washington and Patricia Ann Myers of Pittsburgh; two brothers, Joseph and Louis Kovacicek, both of Washington; nine grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.
Rodney E. Husk
Retired from Packard Electric
Rodney E. "Husker" Husk, 60, of 3868 Durst Clagg Road, Cortland, Ohio, formerly of Waynesburg, died at 6:20 p.m. Wednesday, November 4, 1998, in St. Elizabeth Health Center, Youngstown, Ohio.
He was born March 11, 1938, in Wayne Township, a son of the late Russell Earl and Nannie Belle Tharp Husk.
He was a resident of Waynesburg until 1965, when he moved to Ohio.
Mr. Husk was a graduate of Waynesburg High School and served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War.
He was employed for 35 years as a tow motor driver by Packard Electric before retiring in 1993.
Mr. Husk was a member of Park Avenue Sons of Italy and he enjoyed motorcycle riding and mechanic work.
Surviving are his wife, Connie K. Orndoff Husk, whom he married November 27, 1965; a daughter, Tracey L. Husk of Cortland; a son, Scott W. Husk of Sierra Vista, Ariz.; and two sisters, Marjorie Anderson and Madolyn Kuhn, both of Burgettstown.
A sister, Hilda Stoneking, is deceased.
Paul Katruska
Worked at former Brockway Glass Co.
Paul Katruska, 71, of Scenery Hill, died at 12:15 p.m. Thursday, November 5, 1998, in the emergency room of Washington Hospital.
He was born May 9, 1927, in Fredericktown, a son of Stephen and Mary Kolar Katruska.
Mr. Katruska was a veteran of the U.S. Army and a retired employee of former Brockway Glass Co. of Washington.
His wife, Patricia Louise Bosdash Katruska, died February 7, 1996.
Surviving are three daughters, Marlene and Darlene Katruska, both of Scenery Hill, and Sharon Smith of Richeyville; two sons, Stephen and Jeffrey Katruska, both of Scenery Hill; a grandson, Zachary Smith; and four sisters, Anna and Lenora Katruska, both of Fredericktown, Clara Carafa of Masontown and Helen Marchines of Daisytown.
Also deceased are three brothers, Joseph, John and Steve Katruska; and four sisters, Geraldine Kersanty, Violet Miller, Sara Jenkins and Mary Latsnic.
Gladys E. Kleber
Retired from A&P Food Market
Gladys E. Kleber, 82, of Penn Hills, formerly of Rea, died Wednesday, November 4, 1998.
She was born May 7, 1916, in Rea, a daughter of John Ralph and Ina Ahrns Jeffrey.
Mrs. Kleber had worked for A&P Food Market for 25 years.
Her husband, Edward Kleber, is deceased.
Surviving are a brother, Carl Jeffrey of Penn Hills; and many nieces and nephews.
Deceased are four brothers, Robert, C. Dwight, R. Warren and Jay Jeffrey.
