O'TOOLE PAUL V. Age 77, of Monroeville, passed away on Sunday, November 5, 2017. Beloved husband of Dolores (Canobbio) O'Toole; loving father of Kenneth (Christine) O'Toole and Todd O'Toole; adored grandfather of Christophe Mendez, Katie, Emma, Niko, Gina, and Myle O'Toole; brother of Thomas (Kay) O'Toole and Mary (late Frank) LaValle; uncle of Thomas and Kevin O'Toole and Frank, Michael, and Richard LaValle. Paul proudly served in the US Army and was a selfless person in life. Friends will be received Wednesday 2-4 and 6 - 8 p.m. at the JOBE FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY INC. (MONROEVILLE / PLUM CHAPEL) , corner of (445) Beatty Rd. and 48 North, Monroeville (412-856-4747). Mass of Christian Burial will be Thursday, 1 p.m. at St. Bernadette Parish. Interment with Full Military Honors will follow at Good Shepherd Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the family who will choose a charity of their choice. www.jobefuneralhome.com Send condolences post-gazette.com/gb
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O'TOOLE PAUL V. AGE 77, OF MON...
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WOODDELL JOAN B. (O'CONNELL) A...
WOODDELL JOAN B. (O'CONNELL) Age 88, on Sunday, November 5, 2017 of Brentwood, formerly of Greenfield, Squirrel Hill area. Beloved wife of 39 years to the late Edward W., Sr.; loving mother of Mary J. (Jeffrey) Balogh, Edward W., Jr. (Kim), Kathleen Wooddell, and Dr. Margaret Wooddell; adored Mimi of Bridgette, Sean, Christopher, Emily, Meghan and Zane; daughter of the late Bridgett and James O'Connell; sister of the late Mary Ellen "Loll", John "Bud", Kathleen "Kath", Margaret "Peg", James "Jim", Martina "Teen", Christopher "Chris" and Leanore "Lee"; sister-in-law of Robert "Bob" Wooddell and Nancy Wooddell; also survived by several nieces, nephews and their families and dear friends. Joan worked for Kaufmann's Department Store and the University of Pittsburgh, was a devout parishioner of St. Wendelin Church and will be deeply missed by all who loved and knew her. "And until we meet again, may god hold you in the palm of his hand." Friends will be received at the JOHN F. SLATER FUNERAL HOME, INC., 412-881-4100, on Wednesday and Thursday, November 8 and 9, 2017 from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Funeral prayer on Friday morning at 9:45 a.m. Mass of Christian Burial in St. Wendelin Church, Holy Apostles Parish at 10:30 a.m. If desired, family suggests contributions to Baptist Homes of Western PA or The Caring Hospice. Please send condolences to www.johnfslater.com. Send condolences post-gazette.com/gb
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MCMULLEN EDWARD A. EDDIE MAC...
MCMULLEN EDWARD A. EDDIE MAC Of East Pittsburgh, age 80, on Sunday, November 5, 2017. Beloved husband of the late Rita Jane (Downing) McMullen; loving father of Robert McMullen, John David (Amy) McMullen, Daniel McMullen and the late Michael and late Timothy McMullen; proud grandfather of Amy (Jason) Noone, Brian and Timothy McMullen and Robin Veshosky; great-grandfather of Kaitlyn, Morgan, Madelyn and Lucas; brother of James (Lois) McMullen and the late Robert McMullen. Ed was a graduate of Slippery Rock University where he earned his degree in Secondary Education. He taught for North Braddock Scott High School, which merged to form General Braddock High School and later merged again into Woodland Hills High School from where he retired. He also coached basketball at Scott High School. Ed enjoyed buying, selling and collecting antique cars. Friends are welcome on Thursday from 2-4 & 6-8pm at PATRICK T. LANIGAN FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATORY where a Funeral Service will be held on Friday at 11a.m. Ed will be laid to rest in Braddock Catholic Cemetery. Send condolences post-gazette.com/gb
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BANDIK ELEANORE K. (BERTA) OF ...
BANDIK ELEANORE K. (BERTA) Of Wilkins Twp., formerly of North Braddock, age 91, died peacefully on Monday November 6, 2017. Eleanore was the beloved wife of the late George J. Bandik for 54 years; Cherished mother of George C. Bandik, of Swisshelm Park, Mary Agnes Maggie (Bill) Marusko, of Monroeville, Ann Marie (Lisle) Lambing, of Finleyville, and Susan (John) Millerschoen, of North Huntingdon;loving grandmother of Aimee Lambing, of Maryland; dear sister of Agnes Berta, of Monroeville. She was preceded in death by her siblings Mary Mikita, Michael P. Berta and many brothers and sisters in-law. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews; special family friend of Dan Dellavecchio. Eleanore enjoyed spending time with her family, especially her grandaughter. She also enjoyed baking nut rolls, playing on her iPad, singing in choir, and visiting the casino. Friends welcome on Wednesday 2-8 p.m. at PATRICK T. LANIGAN FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY, INC., Turtle Creek/Monroeville Chapel, 1111 Monroeville Ave. at James St., Turtle Creek, 412-823-9350. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held for Eleanore on Thursday at 10 a.m. at Sacred Heart Church of Good Shepherd Parish. She will then be entombed in Braddock Catholic Cemetery. Memorial donations can be made in her name to the Little Sisters of the Poor 1028 Benton Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15212, (412)761-5373 or Vincentian de Marillac 5300 Stanton Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15206 (412) 361-2833 Send condolences post-gazette.com/gb
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FLOYD AMY LYNN AGE 61, OF HARM...
FLOYD AMY LYNN Age 61, of Harmony, after a courageous battle on Sunday, November 5, 2017. Beloved mother of David (Valerie) Puhac, Chris (Jen) Puhac, Kevin (Lori) Puhac, and Jason Puhac; proud grandma of Ian, Declan, Vaughn, Emily, Alyssa, and Clayton; loving sister of Mary Floyd; also survived by many loving relatives and friends. Friends will be received on Wednesday from 4-8 p.m. at DEVLIN FUNERAL HOME of CRANBERRY, 2678 Rochester Rd., (724) 772-8800. A funeral service will be held in Victory Family Church, 21150 US-19, Cranberry Twp., PA 16066 on Thursday at 11 a.m., everyone please meet at church. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Victory Family Church. Send condolences post-gazette.com/gb
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CHRISTMAN ROBERT ANTHONY ROBER...
CHRISTMAN ROBERT ANTHONY Robert Anthony Christman, passed in his sleep peacefully at the age of 93 on Sunday, November 5, 2017. Survived by his best friend and loving wife of 73 years, Apphia M. Christman. Bob has one son and two daughters, David Robert Christman and wife, Debra, from Pittsburgh, Deborah Christman Torbitt and husband, John from Atlanta and Cynthia Christman and friend, Patrice Ellison from Boca Raton. He was an adoring Grandpa and huge part of their lives to Keith Fredrick Christman, Anthony Robert Christman and Christopher Robert Christman and wife, Jackie Masters Christman; also survived by two great- grandchildren, Cayden Robert and Mason Anthony Christman. If you were lucky enough to know Bob, you knew he was a kind, loving and giving man. He was a wonderful gardener, loved classical music and was a world traveler. Bob was a WWII veteran and married Apphia at a young age right before he left for the war (and they said it wouldn't last). He was employed as the Vice President of Purchasing at Mobay Chemical in Pittsburgh before retiring. Most of all he loved his family and will be heartfully missed. May we all be so blessed as to see you again, forever in our thoughts and prayers with love eternally. Friends will be received from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Wednesday in BEINHAUER FUNERAL HOME, 2828 Washington Rd., McMurray (724-941-3211). Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday 10 a.m. in Our Lady of Grace Church. Entombment in Queen of Heaven Cemetery. Please add tributes at beinhauer.com. Send condolences post-gazette.com/gb
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ASTORINO ISABELLA (VITALE) SUD...
ASTORINO ISABELLA (VITALE) Suddenly, but peacefully, on November 4, Isabella left us to join her beloved Sam in the grace and glory of our Lord. Isabella was born December 19, 1931 in Bush, Illinois to Frank and Mary (Curinga) Vitale. She was a teacher for many years at Saints Simon and Jude School in Scott Township. She was the wife and widow of the late Dr. Samuel J. Astorino, with whom she instilled a love of education and a strong faith in God into her children, and all those she touched. Isabella is survived by her daughters, Elisa Astorino and Anita Astorino Kulik and her husband Joe, and her son Christopher Astorino. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Sarah Rose Wrona and her husband Joshua, and Joseph E. Kulik; as well as a great-granddaughter, Kennedy Rose Wrona, who always brought a twinkle to her eye and a smile to her face. Isabella is also survived by a brother, Lou (Carole) Vitale; brother-in-law, Frank (the late Tina) Goveaszzo; and sister-in-law, Carmine (the late Tony) Astorino. She was predeceased by her sister, Ann (Pat) Borgesi; and brother, Tony (Helen) Vitale. She is also survived by many loving and wonderful nieces and nephews, and delightful friends. Visitation will be Thursday, 6 to 8 p.m., and Friday, 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m., at BAGNATO FUNERAL HOME, in Carnegie. Mass of Christian Burial at Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton Church on Saturday at 12:00 noon. Add a tribute: bagnatofuneralhome.com Send condolences post-gazette.com/gb
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M CMAHON MICHAEL GEORGE IT IS ...
M cMAHON MICHAEL GEORGE It is with great sadness that the family of Michael George McMahon, age 74, of Moon Twp., PA announces his passing after a brief illness on Sunday, November 5, 2017. He was born in McKees Rocks, PA on May 24, 1943. Michael will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 49 years, Mary McMahon and his children, Kimberly Johnson (Brian), NC and Janine McMahon, Moon Twp. Michael will also be fondly remembered by his grandson, Declan Johnson and his three pets, Ottis George, Oliver Fynn, Oscar Wyatt and his many friends. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: Homes for Our Troops (www.hfotusa.org) and the Fisher House Foundation (www.fisherhouse.org). There will be no public services at this time. THE HUNTSMAN FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES OF MOON TWP. is in charge of arrangements. huntsmanfuneralhomes.com Send condolences post-gazette.com/gb
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BARTNIK JAMES E. AGE 61, OF MO...
BARTNIK JAMES E. Age 61, of Monroeville, passed on Monday, November 6, 2017. Beloved son of Violet Musgrave; loving husband of Darlene Hertzog; wonderful father of Jason and Corey Bartnik, Matthew (Amy) Hertzog, and Maria Egenlauf; grandfather of Isabella and Larry Scafuri, and Blake and Grant Hertzog; also survived by his beloved uncles, Herman "Sonny" Eckert, Charles Bartnik; and many loving siblings, aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews. "Zippo Jim" worked at Rossi's Flea Market in North Versailles for over 20 years. He enjoyed spending time with family and restoring his antique Corvette with his son, Matt. Friends will be received Saturday 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at the JOBE FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY, INC. (MONROEVILLE / PLUM CHAPEL), corner of (445) Beatty Rd. and 48 North, Monroeville (412-856-4747) where a service will conclude the visitation Saturday, 7:45 p.m. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the James Bartnik Memorial Fund through Gofundme. www.jobefuneralhome.com. Send condolences post-gazette.com/gb
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COPPOLA FRANK J., JR. AGE 37, ...
COPPOLA FRANK J., Jr. Age 37, of Penn Hills, suddenly on November 5, 2017, after a long hard-fought battle. Survived by his beloved son, Noah J. Coppola; his parents, Frank J., Sr. and Debra K.; his sister, Jessica; his niece, Jordan R. Bell; the mother of his son, Trish Darrah; his stepson, Sebastian Darrah, and Patricia Darrah. Private Interment. Memorial contributions may be made to Frank J. and Debra Coppola for Noah's education fund. Arrangements entrusted to: TRENZ FUNERAL HOME, INC., Penn Hills. Send condolences post-gazette.com/gb
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SMITH FLORENCE WAS CALLED HOME...
SMITH FLORENCE Was called home to be with the Lord November 2, 2017, she is survived by loving daughter, Teresa Hickman; grandson, Michael A. Hickman; brother, James Momon; brothers-in-law, Wendall Smith (Barbara), Arnold Smith (Sandra); and other beloved relatives and friends. Calling hours Thursday, November 9, 2017, 4-8 p.m. at HOUSE OF LAW, INC., Penn Hills. Homegoing Friday, November 10, 2017 , Laketon Heights United Methodist Church 11:00 a.m. www.houseoflawinc.com. Send condolences post-gazette.com/gb
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BARBOUR ROBERT B. AGE 88, OF B...
BARBOUR ROBERT B. Age 88, of Baldwin Boro, formerly of Carnegie, passed away on Monday, November 6, 2017. Beloved husband of 68 years to Lois A. (Morris) Barbour; father of Robert W. (the late Carol), James M. (Robin) and Scott A. (Virginia) Barbour and E. Donald (Eileen) McIrvin; grandfather of Robert W., Jr., Nicholas J., Christopher A., James M., Megan E. and Sarah M. Barbour, Michael E. McIrvin and Monica L. Wills. Also great-grandfather of four. Brother of the late Isbel McWilliams, William Edgar Barbour, Mary Jane Morrison, Gail Donaldson and Halbert Barbour. Robert retired from the U.S. Steel Clairton Works as a Bargeman after 42 years. Friends received Thursday 2-8 p.m. at the READSHAW FUNERAL HOME, INC., 1503 Brownsville Road, Carrick, where a Funeral Service will be held on Friday at 10:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Spencer United Methodist Church, 117 Spencer Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15227. Send condolences to readshawfuneralhome.com. Send condolences post-gazette.com/gb
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SHORT GERTRUDE R. TRUDY AGE ...
SHORT GERTRUDE R. TRUDY Age 87, on Friday, November 3, 2017 of Baldwin Borough. Wife of the late George A. Short, Jr.; mother of George A. (Michele) Short and the late Sandra J. Short; sister of Theodore J. (Eileen) Fischer, the late Elmer (Barbara) Schmidt, Albert (survived by Norma) Fischer, Margaret (Donald) Born, and Miriam (Ed) Perian; grandmother of Jillian, Emma, Jocelyn, Owen and Persephone Short; great- grandmother of Jason, Daniel (Fleur), Steven (Sarah) Short. Also survived by best friend, Mary Louis Regan. Friends will be received at the JOHN F. SLATER FUNERAL HOME, INC., 412-881-4100, 4201 Brownsville Road, Brentwood 15227 on Wednesday, November 8, 2017, from 6-8 p.m. and Thursday, November 9, 2017, from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Funeral Service on Friday morning in Holy Spirit Church at 10:00 a.m. If desired, family suggests contributions to American Diabetes Association, 100 W. Station Square Drive, Ste. 1900, Pittsburgh, PA 15219. Please send condolences to www.johnfslater.com. Send condolences post-gazette.com/gb
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MILLIGAN FRANCINE AGE 47, OF R...
MILLIGAN FRANCINE Age 47, of Robinson Township, on Monday, November 6, 2017. Beloved wife of Michael; sister of Felicia Guerrieri, Cindy (Michael) Tedesco, and Vince (Kelly) Guerrieri; aunt of Luis, Mia, Natalie, Becky, Kelly, Brianne, and Frankie. In lieu of flowers, please acknowledge contributions to Wanda Bilec Foundation, P.O. Box 164, Downingtown, PA 19335 or visit www.wbf4pancreaticcancer.org. Friends received in the WILLIAM F. GROSS FUNERAL HOME, LTD., 11735 Frankstown Road (at Rodi Road), Penn Hills, on Wednesday 4-8 p.m. and Thursday 2-8 p.m. Funeral Prayers Friday 9:30 a.m. Mass of Christian Burial in St. Gerard Majella Church, 10 a.m. Send condolences post-gazette.com/gb
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VERY NORMA WANDRISCO FORMERLY ...
VERY NORMA WANDRISCO Formerly of Upper St. Clair, Sewickley, and the North Hills of Pittsburgh, Norma died peacefully on Tuesday morning, November 7, 2017. She was 84 years old. A woman of great faith, Norma was the daughter of Clem and Martha Anne (Pickel) Wandrisco of Mount Washington. She was the beloved wife of the late Donald L. Very, Esq., and loving mother and grandmother of six children and 14 grandchildren including: Dr. Donald L. and Debbie Very (Kelli Very Wright and Ben, Mike Very, and Zach and Michelle, Britney and Jake Lenz) of Little Silver, New Jersey; Dianne (Very) and the late Dale Stetzer (Logan and Dr. Kate, Claire and Brenan) of Sewickley/Ohio Township; David Very of McCandless; Drs. Daniel and Laura Very (Ryan Very, Esq., and Cristena, Drs. Brad and Katie Very, Sarah Very and her fiancé Carson Barnes) of McCandless; the late Douglas Very; and Dennis Very, Esq., and Kerri (Madison, Rileigh and Sydney) of McCandless. She also was the proud great-grandmother to Kelli and Ben's son, Tucker, and was joyfully anticipating the birth of Tucker's little sister. She also is survived by her loving brothers and sisters-in- law, Clem and Kathy Wandrisco of Oakdale, and Dave and Marlene Wandrisco of South Fayette; by the in-laws that she loved, Marlene and Patrick Hayes of South Park, and Joanne and the late Richard Very of Brookline; and the nieces, nephews and friends that she cherished. Norma grew up on Pittsburgh's Mount Washington, attended St. Justin Elementary and High Schools, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Home Economics with a major in Dietetics from Mt. Mercy (now Carlow) College, in Pittsburgh. Norma worked as a dietary aide at South Side Hospital in Pittsburgh while she was in school and for a year after graduation. During the summer of 1954, she met the love of her life, Donald L. Very, Esq., while working for her father Clem's insurance office. They married in 1956, then moved to South Bend, Indiana, where Norma worked as a dietician at the Memorial Hospital while her husband attended the University of Notre Dame School of Law. Norma's greatest joy came in raising her six children with her husband, and she was a talented cook and baker. She continued to work as the head of the Dietary Department of the Elsie Miller Nursing Home in Pittsburgh's North Hills, for 23 years. While at the nursing home, Norma started a Mother's Day celebration with a luncheon for families that she counted as one of her most joyful accomplishments. Norma also was the practice dietician for the Mt. Lebanon Diagnostic Clinic for more than 20 years. She also enjoyed writing, knitting, and playing bridge, and attending her children and grandchildren's musicals and sporting events. Norma was a member of the Allegheny County Bar Association Women's Auxiliary, where she served as Vice President, and the Brookside Women's Club. Her faith was of deep importance to her, and she was an involved and devout member of St. Thomas More in Bethel Park, where she served as a Eucharistic Minister; St. James in Sewickley; and St. Teresa of Avila in Pittsburgh's North Hills. Norma was also an active member of the Serra Club of Pittsburgh. In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions be made to the Donald L. Very, Esq., endowed scholarship fund at Duquesne University, University Advancement, 600 Forbes Avenue, 4th Floor Administration Building, Pittsburgh, PA 15282. Friends will be received at FREYVOGEL - SLATER FUNERAL DIRECTORS, 112 Fort Couch Road, Bethel Park 15241 (opposite Macy's South Hills Village) 412-835-1860 on Thursday, November 9, 2017, from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Friday, November 10, 2017, at St. Thomas More Church in Bethel Park, at 10:00 a.m., with interment in Queen of Heaven Cemetery immediately following. Send condolences post-gazette.com/gb
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HORNBAKER SUZANNE M. AGE 85, O...
HORNBAKER SUZANNE M. Age 85, of Mt. Lebanon, on November 3, 2017. Beloved wife of the late Roger W. Hornbaker; mother of Jan (Mark) Straley, Doug (Sharon) Hornbaker, Tom (Amie) Hornbaker, and Mike (Erin) Hornbaker; sister to Carolyn Tripodiand; grandmother of Allison and Matt Straley, Addison and Zach Hornbaker, and Lauren and Wil Hornbaker. Suzanne was a proud alumnus of Ohio State where she was a member of the Pi Beta Phi sorority, serving as an active volunteer to the group for many years. She was an avid fan of the Pittsburgh Steelers and Penguins. She enjoyed many hobbies and was active in a number of social groups including bridge club and the Pittsburgh Symphony. Suzanne enjoyed vacations to the Outer Banks with her family. She was a volunteer at St Luke's Church where she enjoyed assisting with weddings. Suzanne was also a very active member of St. Paul's Episcopal Church where a Memorial Service will be held Friday, November 10, 2017, at 2 p.m. A reception will follow in the church lounge. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to St. Paul's Memorial Fund or Susan G. Komen. The family would like to extend a special thank you to Suzanne's community of wonderful friends who helped her throughout the years. Arrangements by LAUGHLIN CREMATION AND FUNERAL TRIBUTES, 222 Washington Rd., Mt Lebanon. Send condolences post-gazette.com/gb
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GYORY WILLIAM G. AGE 49, OF ST...
GYORY WILLIAM G. Age 49, of Stowe Twp., suddenly on Monday, November 6, 2017. Loving son of Don and Donna Gyory; brother of Nick (Jen) Gyory; uncle of Jacob Gyory; godfather of Stephen Tutino. Family and friends are welcome for visitation on Thursday 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at the ANTHONY M. MUSMANNO FUNERAL HOME, INC., 700 7th St., McKees Rocks, PA 15136, where a Funeral Service will be held on Friday at 11:30 a.m. Interment Mt. Calvary Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be donated to the family. Please view and sign the family's online guestbook at www.musmannofh.com Send condolences post-gazette.com/gb
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WELSH ROSE MARIE AGE 98, PEACE...
WELSH ROSE MARIE Age 98, peacefully on Sunday, November 5, 2017, of Spring Hill. Beloved wife of the late David Welsh; loving mother of Daniel (Linda), Barbara, James (Sandra), Robert (Catherine), Thomas (Joyce), and the late David A. (Evelyn) Welsh. Rose is survived by 12 grandchildren; and 13 great-grandchildren. A special Thank You to Kane Nursing Center (Ross Twp.) for all the love and care they gave to Rose. Visitation Thursday 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at BRADY MEMORIAL HOME, INC., 1151 Southside Ave. (Spring Hill/City View). Funeral Mass of Christian Burial Friday 11 a.m. at St. Ambrose Church. Send condolences post-gazette.com/gb
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PARKER-REDSHAW JOYCE AGE 57, O...
PARKER-REDSHAW JOYCE Age 57, of North Versailles, died Monday, November 6, 2017. She was born September 12, 1960, in McKeesport, the daughter of the late Henry and Claudia Wotring Redshaw. She was employed as the executive assistant to the solicitor of Allegheny County in the law department for many years. She is survived by her husband, Daniel Redshaw of North Versailles; daughter, Rachel (William) Sadler of Erie; grandchildren, Daniel John, Claudia Grace, and David William Sadler. Family and friends will be received Thursday, November 9, 2017, from 2:00- 8:00 p.m. at STRIFFLER'S OF WHITE OAK CREMATION & MORTUARY SERVICES, 1100 Lincoln Way, White Oak, PA 15131 (Sue Striffler Galaski, Supervisor 412-678- 6177). Services will be on Friday, November 10, 2017, at 10:00 a.m. at Norwin Church of the Nazarene, 110 Clay Pike, N. Huntingdon 15642, with Rev. Nate Patnode, officiating. Burial will follow. Condolences may be made at strifflerfuneralhomes.com. Send condolences post-gazette.com/gb
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CERTO DR. SALVATORE A. DR. CER...
CERTO DR. SALVATORE A. Dr. Certo, age 95, was home with family by his side when he passed peacefully in his sleep November 6, 2017. Born May 1, 1922, son of the late Louis and Mary (Antonucci) Certo. Survived by Patricia Maurer Certo, his loving wife of 64 years; his 14 children, Dr. Louis (the late Connie Cerra) Certo, Mary Pat (Peter) Wolff, Mary Ann (Louis) Marsico, Mary Lyn (Michael) Fieldhammer, John Michael Certo, Mary Sue (Daniel) Certo-Newcamp, Mary Jo (Terrence) Schmidt-Totten, Thomas (Susan) Certo, Mary Kathleen (Dennis) Blackwell, Esquire, Mary Christine (Robert) Kocent, Mary Ellen (Matthew) Oxenreiter, Mary Amy (Frank) Caligiuri, Mary Megan (Troy) Edwards, Dr. Mary Lori Certo-Rossetti; fifty grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; his sisters Dr. Josephine Certo and Dr. Natalie Certo, his brother, Peter Certo; and eight nieces and nephews. A Bloomfield native, Dr. Certo was a graduate of Immaculate Conception Parish School, Central Catholic High School, the University of Pittsburgh, and Loyola University of Chicago School of Medicine. Unable to return home from war in a timely manner, Dr. Certo also studied at Biarritz American University while overseas. Following his residency, Dr. Certo worked at Passavant, Divine Providence and Braddock Hospitals while at the same time remaining at St. Francis Medical Center for over 50 years, where his office building was two blocks from where he grew up. As a general surgeon, Dr. Certo was devoted to his profession and beloved by all those whom he cared for. Dr. Certo was known for his unassuming manner. It was not uncommon for patients to approach him on the street while he walked from his office to the hospital asking for his medical advice. After freely giving it, Dr. Certo would invite them to just stop by his office anytime and he would take a closer look. He had the classic black physician's bag which he brought with him to many house calls for family, friends, and neighbors. He also served as team physician for the Morningside Bulldogs and North Catholic High School football team where his sons played football. Dr. Certo served as Chief of Staff at St. Francis Hospital where countless interns and residents studied under his patient guidance. HHis son, Dr. Louis Certo, joined his practice in the 1980s. Together they pioneered the use of laser surgery in general surgical procedures at St. Francis. His daughter, Dr. Mary Lori Certo-Rossetti also followed in his footsteps. Dr. Certo remained active in the medical field well into his 80's working as a physician conducting military physical examinations for all branches of the military at the William S. Moorhead Federal Building in Pittsburgh. Dr. Certo served on many boards of directors, including Allegheny Valley Bank and Wheeling Jesuit University. Additionally, Dr. Certo was a successful real estate developer, amongst many other business interests. He was also an accomplished painter whose work was featured in exhibitions of the Associated Artists of Pittsburgh as well as the Catholic Physician's Guild. A World War II veteran, Dr. Certo enlisted in the United States Army at the age of 20 because he felt the desire to serve his country. He served in the European Theater of Operations. Dr. Certo fought in Normandy, North France, Rhineland, and Central Europe and received four bronze stars, the Good Conduct Medal, the Victory Medal, and a Letter of Commendation for his extraordinary service to our country, exhibiting a high degree of devotion to duty, the performance of his duties, and his untiring efforts which contributed materially to the successful operation of the Photo Interpretation Team. Due to his knowledge of many languages, he worked with Military Intelligence as an interrogator questioning Prisoners of War. Dr. Certo was also among the American troops to liberate the prisoners at the Auschwitz concentration camp. Though he seldom spoke of the war, Dr. Certo confided in later years that his military service was among his greatest achievements, and stems from his sheer love and respect for this country, as well as his desire to fulfill the opportunities bought for him by the risks and sacrifices of generations preceding him. Dr. Certo is a member of what has been considered the Greatest Generation. Dr. Certo was honorably discharged from the United States Army on December 27, 1945, with the ranking of Staff Sargent. Dr. Certo was a devout Roman Catholic throughout his life. As a child, he was a member of Immaculate Conception Parish (Bloomfield), and then as an adult at St. Edward's Parish (Blawnox), and St. Mary of the Assumption Parish (Glenshaw). He was known by his great Faith throughout his life. His high school yearbook noted Sam (his boyhood nickname) as small in stature but big in spirituality as shown by his daily visits to the chapel. Dr. Certo attended daily mass everyday of his life. Dr. Certo was also a benevolent and generous contributor to countless charities. He had a perpetual dedication to the Blessed Mother and the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Dr. Certo also had a great affection for his own mother on whose birthday he went home to the Lord. Dr. Certo was completely devoted and in love with his wife, Patricia, a beautiful nurse he met at St. Francis Hospital, whom he called the source of all of his success, happiness, and blessings. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations, in memorial of Dr. Salvatore A. Certo, be made to the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. www.stjude.org. Friends will be received at KYPER FUNERAL HOME, INC., 2702 Mt. Royal Blvd., Glenshaw, PA 15116, on Thursday, November 9, 2017, from 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Mary of the Assumption Parish in Glenshaw, on Friday, November 10, 2017, at 11:30 a.m. Interment will immediately follow in St. Mary of the Assumption Cemetery. www.kyperfuneralhome.com Send condolences post-gazette.com/gb
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