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Charles A. Beerens Sr.
U.S. Navy veteran was craftsman
Charles Albert Beerens Sr., 91, of Fallowfield Township, died in a sudden roofing accident Sunday, May 24, 2009, at his farm.
He was born December 8, 1917, in Fallowfield Township, a son of Belgian immigrants Jean Joseph and Marie Elizabeth Melenyzer Beerens. During the Great Depression of the 1930s, his family moved to Burbank, Calif., where he lost both his mother and brother. After the war, he resettled in Fallowfield Township at his beloved family farm to raise his family.
Mr. Beerens served in the U.S. Navy during World War II for more than three years. He was on the USS Walke during the D-Day invasion of Normandy and later served on the USS John R. Pierce in the Pacific Theater. He witnessed the Japanese surrender in Tokyo harbor in 1945. During the war, he married Juanita Dalton, from Eastern Kentucky, who served as a MASH nurse in Britain during the war.
He was a consummate craftsman who worked as an electrician for Bethlehem Steel and Washington Steel, while doing refrigeration as a side trade. He attended California College in the 1930s, studying industrial arts until the outbreak of the war. After the war, he graduated from Coyne Electrical College in Chicago, Ill. A woodworker, gunsmith, furniture maker and farmer, he spent much of his time in the outdoors hunting and climbing the hills of Northern Pennsylvania. A self provider and strong individualist who lived life on his own terms, he will be greatly missed by his friends and family.
Surviving are his four children, Rosalind (James) Blair and Sherry (Jeffery) Sager, both of Fayette County, Joseph Charles Beerens of Pittsburgh and Charles Albert Beerens Jr. of Fallowfield Township; seven grandchildren, Jennifer Blair Durham, Brandon Blair, Rachel Sager Lynch, Molly Sager, Matthew Sager, Amanda Jane Beerens and Madeline Beerens; and four great-grandchildren.
In addition to his parents, deceased are his wife, Juanita, in 1985, and a brother, Joseph Alfred Beerens.
Friends will be received from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday in Melenyzer-DuBarr Funeral Homes and Cremation Service Inc., 825 Fallowfield Avenue, Charleroi, where services will be held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, May 27. Interment will follow in Maple Creek Cemetery. Online condolences will be accepted at www.melenyzer-dubarr.com.
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Shirley Christy Benamati
Enjoyed baking and cooking for her family
Shirley Christy Benamati, 76, of Fredericktown (Milfred Terrace), formerly of Mather, died Saturday, May 23, 2009, in her home, after a brief illness, surrounded by her loving family.
She was born January 19, 1933, in Fredericktown, a daughter of Edward and Elizabeth Shaw Christy.
Mrs. Benamati was a 1951 graduate of East Bethlehem Township High School.
She was a homemaker and a member of Millsboro Presbyterian Church.
Mrs. Benamati also worked on the East Bethlehem Township Election Board and at Centerville Food Bank.
She enjoyed baking and cooking for family gatherings and holidays at her home.
On June 30, 1951, she married Bernard A. “Benny” Benamati, who died August 1, 2005.
Surviving are three children, Cynthia Crockard of Mather, Frank Benamati and wife Diane of Mather and Marcia Stockdale Ottoviani and husband Domenick of Newell; 11 grandchildren, James Crockard and wife Melanie, Brian Crockard, Frank Crockard, Charles Crockard, David Benamati and wife Ronette, Bernard Benamati (currently serving in Iraq) and wife Deanna, Christopher Stockdale, Anthony Stockdale and wife Bridget, Lyndee Stockdale Myrga, Domenick Ottoviani and Alison Ottoviani; and great-grandchildren Dylan Crockard, Austin Crockard, Dominic Benamati, Sydney Hare, Jonah Stockdale, Brenden Keller and Trevor Tarr. She was expecting great-grandchild Ryder Santino Stockdale.
Deceased, in addition to her husband, are a granddaughter, Kelli Renee Stockdale; three sisters, Evelyn Whetsell, Norma Blair and Althea McElroy Swaney; and three brothers, John Christy, Wilbur Christy and Wallace Christy.
Friends will be received from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday in Behm Funeral Homes Inc., 1477 Jefferson Road, Jefferson, Gregory P. Rohanna, supervisor, where services will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, May 28, with the Rev. Ford Campbell officiating.
Interment will follow in Greene County Memorial Park, Morgan Township.
Memorial contributions may be made to Millsboro Presbyterian Church. Condolences may be expressed online at www.behmfuneralhomes.net.
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Danny W. Bendik
Enjoyed life to the fullest
Danny W. Bendik, 63, of Amity, died Sunday, May 24, 2009, in Washington Hospital.
He was born September 12, 1945, in Walla Walla, Wash., a son of the late Joseph W. and Margaret Stephens Bendik.
Mr. Bendik was a 1963 graduate of Bethlehem Center High School.
He served in the U.S. Army as a cook earning a rank of E-5 while stationed in Fort Knox. He worked as a meat cutter at Bi-Lo foods for 28 years and most recently at Sam’s Club in Washington where he received his 10 year pin and retired in 2008.
Mr. Bendik was a member of North Ten Mile Baptist Church.
He was president of Ten Mile Valley Baseball League of Amity, coached many baseball teams of all ages, played softball for Lone Pine, where he was nicknamed “Big D,” and won many hitting awards.
Mr. Bendik also loved the Pittsburgh Steelers, enjoyed taking his family to Steelers spring training camp at St. Vincent and was honored to be a VIP guest at the Mel Blount Roast. He was a great husband, dad and “Pappy” who enjoyed life to the fullest.
He shared 43 years of marriage with his wife, Arlene Doty of Amity, who survives.
Also surviving are three children, Stephen M. (Paula) Bendik of Ten Mile, David W. (Heather) Bendik of Ruff Creek and Cheri A. (Don) House of Mooresville, N.C.; a brother, Joe (Jeanne) Bendik of McDonald; a sister, Susan Moore of Washington; and seven grandchildren, Chris, Jacob, Justin, Emily, Haley and Hunter Bendik and Joshua House.
Deceased, in addition to his parents, is a sister, Barbara Bendik.
Friends will be received from 2 to 9 p.m. Tuesday in Nichol Funeral Home, 1873 East Maiden St., Washington, where services will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, May 27, with the Rev. Gary Schneider officiating. Interment will follow in North Ten Mile Cemetery. Military rites will be accorded by American Legion Post 744. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made in Mr. Bendik’s name to American Cancer Society.
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Esther Montgomery Buchanan
Former Claysville resident
Esther M. Buchanan M.D., 94, of Utah, passed away Tuesday, May 19, 2009.
She was born July 15, 1914, in Claysville, a daughter of John Nelson Montgomery and Grace McClain Clarke.
Dr. Buchanan graduated from Claysville High School in 1931 at age 16. During her high school and college years, she worked as a postal clerk, gas station attendant and in the library. She earned a bachelor of science degree at Muskingum College, New Concord, Ohio, in 1935 at age 20. She also was the grateful recipient of a Senatorial Scholarship that permitted her attendance at Temple University Medical School in Philadelphia, Class of 1939, at the age of 24.
She first established a practice in Souderton.
On Dec. 23, 1945, she married G.A. Buchanan Jr., whom she later divorced. She received her postdoctoral diploma in anesthesiology from New York University and completed an anesthesia residency at Bellevue Medical Center, N.Y., in 1949, while residing in Lake Success, Long Island, N.Y. She inspired her husband to attend medical school, which brought the Buchanan family to Utah and the University of Utah Medical School. Dr. Buchanan practiced medicine at LDS Hospital from 1950 to 1955, Richfield and surrounding communities from 1956 to 1960 and Holy Cross Hospital from 1960 to 1984. She retired while serving as Holy Cross Hospital Anesthesiology department chair. Dr. Buchanan maintained lifetime membership in the American Medical Association and American Society of Anesthesiologists.
Dr. Buchanan valued education and those who enabled others to attain it. Although independent, she was always generous to others with her time and money. She was an avid traveler, visiting nearly every state in the United States and more than a dozen foreign countries. She enjoyed cruise ships, crossing the Atlantic on the QE II through the Panama Canal to Alaska and the Mediterranean. She loved the arts and was a Utah Symphony season ticket holder for years. Dr. Buchanan often was found in the desert looking for rocks and fossils or in antique stores, collecting early American glassware and antiques. Yellowstone National Park was a particularly favorite retreat. She loved reading and surrounded herself with good books and periodicals. Unfortunately, wet macular degeneration closed her view of the world and rheumatoid arthritis limited her mobility in later years. She exemplified doing and seeing what one can while one is able.
Surviving are a daughter, Dana A. Buchanan of Sandy, Utah; sons G.A. “Buck” Buchanan III, Heber and Alan M. Buchanan (Cynthia) of Sandy, Utah; a sister, Flora Green of Arizona; a special niece, Christina (Rick) Millard of Ogden, Utah; grandchildren Sharon, Scott, Karen and Becky Buchanan, Collin, Josh, Zach and Tim Perschon and Katy Leigh Buchanan; two great-grandchildren, Howie and Brendan John; a sister-in-law, Mabel Montgomery; and many nieces and nephews.
Deceased are her parents; a brother, John N. Montgomery III; two sons, H. Merrill and Grant M. Buchanan; and a granddaughter, Elizabeth Buchanan.
Employees of Sunrise of Sandy and CareSource were caring and understanding during her last years.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to the National Park Foundation, the Utah Symphony or a favorite institute of higher learning. An informal open-house in honor of Dr. Buchanan will be held from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Sunday, May 31, in Sunrise of Sandy, 2130 East 9400 South, Sandy, Utah. Interment will be in Larkin Sunset Gardens, Sandy. Online condolences to the family may be left at www.larkinmortuary.com/cond.php.
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Laura L. Cox
Member of St. Hilary Roman Catholic Church
Laura L. Cox, 72, of Washington, died Sunday, May 24, 2009, in Kade Nursing Home, Washington.
She was born July 10, 1936, in Washington, a daughter of Carl Clyde and Mary Margaret Fonner Engle.
Mrs. Cox was a member of St. Hilary Roman Catholic Church.
She was employed as a case worker in Washington County Domestic Relations office.
Mrs. Cox was a longtime member of Washington County Democratic Women.
She enjoyed crocheting, crafts, bingo and going to casinos.
On August 7, 1954, in Washington, she married Paul Raymond Cox Jr., who died September 9, 2005.
Surviving are a son, Kurt (Debbie) Cox of Claysville; a daughter-in-law, Kathleen Cox of Washington; a brother, Dave (Gladys) Fonner Engle of Washington; three sisters, Mary Margaret (Richard) Mowl of Lone Pine, Pearl Ann Amos of Washington and Karen Ann (Joseph) Sulc of Washington; a sister-in-law, Maureen Engle of Meadow Lands; five grandchildren, Justin Paul Cox, Presley Marie Cox, Clayton J. Cox Jr., Brittany Lynn Cox and Andrew Snyder; and three great-grandchildren, Sydney Lynn Cox, Jay Paul Cox and Austin Miller.
Deceased are a son, Clayton J. Cox Sr., and a brother, Carl “Bud” Engle.
Friends will be received from 7 to 9 p.m. Tuesday in Michael H. Heinrich Funeral Home, 219 Main St., Claysville. Services and interment will be private and held at the family’s convenience. A guest book is available at www.heinrichfuneralhome.com.
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Rudolph DeAngelo Jr.
U.S. Air Force veteran
Rudolph (Sut) DeAngelo Jr., 71, of Denbo Heights, died Saturday, May 23, 2009, in Monongahela Valley Hospital.
He was born April 7, 1938, in Chewtown, a son of Rudolph Sr. and Jennie Presock DeAngelo.
Mr. DeAngelo was a U.S. Air Force veteran. He was a member of AMVETS Post 103 Hopwood.
He retired from Maxwell Lock and Dam in 1999 and retired as a supervisory firefighter with the FAA as an aircraft rescue and firefighter at the Metropolitan Washington Airport in 1979.
Mr. DeAngelo also was a member of Preseverance Lodge 208 AF&AM in Indian Head, Md.
He was a former volunteer firefighter for Denbo-Vesta 6 Fire Department.
Surviving are his wife, Dorothy Kelshian DeAngelo; a brother, Michael DeAngelo and wife Janet of Brownsville; two sisters, Charlotte Pinardi and husband Albino and Gloria Townsend, all of Allison; and several nieces and nephews.
Deceased are two brothers, Eugene and Wayne DeAngelo.
Friends will be received from 2 to 9 p.m. Thursday in Skirpan Funeral Home, 135 Park Street, Brownsville, where services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, May 29, with the Rev. Roland O’Brien officiating. Interment will be held in Westland Cemetery.
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Virginia Bates Forman
Longtime Jefferson and Clarksville resident
Virginia Bates Forman, 79, of Clarksville, died Sunday, May 24, 2009, in Washington Hospital.
She was born January 12, 1930, in Fairhope, a daughter of Samuel H. and Mary Noakes Watson.
Mrs. Forman had worked at Washington-Greene Community Action and at her retirement, she worked in the Greene County Commissioners Office.
She had lived in the Jefferson and Clarksville areas most of her life.
Mrs. Forman was a member of Greene Valley Presbyterian Church in Carmichaels.
She was married to Glenn O. Bates, her first husband, who died October 24, 1978, and her second husband, Donald E. Forman Sr., who died March 20, 1987.
Surviving are two daughters, Janet Everly and husband Bill of Morgantown, W.Va., and Joyce Bates and fiance Wayne Smith of Weirton, W.Va.; three sons, D. Glenn Bates and wife Anna of Clarksville, Chris A. Bates of Carmichaels and David B. Bates and wife Kelly of Rices Landing; five grandchildren, William D. Everly, Daniel Everly, Sara Lynn Bates, Katlin Bates and Emma Mitchell Bates; a great-grandson, Christopher Michael Everly; and two brothers, Albert G. Watson and George E. Watson, both of Clarksville.
Deceased, in addition to her first and second husband, are a sister, Rose Santucci; two brothers, James V. Watson and Howard B. Watson; and several brothers and sisters in infancy.
Friends will be received from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday and 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday in Behm Funeral Homes Inc., 1477 Jefferson Road, Jefferson, Gregory P. Rohanna, supervisor, where services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, May 29, with the Rev. Keith Larson and the Rev. Harold O. Kelley officiating.
Interment will follow in Greene County Memorial Park, Morgan Township.
Condolences may be expressed online at www.behmfuneralhomes.net.
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Shirley Caldwell Fryer
Member of Enon Presbyterian Church
Shirley “Popcorn” Caldwell Fryer, 78, of Enon Valley, died Monday, May 25, 2009, in Allegheny General Hospital, Pittsburgh.
She was born February 24, 1931, in Hickory, a daughter of John and Helen Stewart Caldwell.
Mrs. Fryer was a homemaker and a member of Enon Presbyterian Church and was very active with her church. She was a member of the choir, session, a trustee and cooked for the church community dinners. She also was a member of the Red Hat Society and was dedicated to her husband, children and grandchildren.
Surviving are her husband, John W. Fryer; five children, two daughters-in-law and two sons-in-law, Chess Fryer of Beaver Falls, Gary Fryer and wife Lisa of Enon Valley, daughter-in-law Sue Cupp Fryer of Columbiana, Ohio, Melanie Stanyard and husband Terry of Enon Valley, Barbara Rowe and husband Bert of Darlington and Susan Fryer of Enon Valley; 15 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren and one on the way; two brothers, two sisters and two sisters-in-law, Donald Caldwell of Hollywood, Calif., Jack Caldwell and wife Elaine of Hickory, Marjorie Curran of Hickory, Barbara Fasnacht of Washington and sister-in-law Carol Caldwell of Washington; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
She also leaves many friends, including a dear friend whom she considered a daughter, Sue Fadse of Follansbee, W.Va.
“Popcorn” will be dearly missed by all who knew her.
In addition to her parents, deceased are a son, Randy Fryer; and a brother, Jerry Caldwell.
Friends will be received from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday and 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday in Enon Presbyterian Church, Enon Valley, where services will be conducted at 10 a.m. Friday, May 29, with her pastor, the Rev. Richard Baker, officiating. Interment will follow in Little Beaver Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Enon Presbyterian Church. Campbell’s Chippewa Funeral Home, 2618 Darlington Road, Chippewa, Beaver Falls, is in charge of all arrangements.
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Sara J. Hanna
Former McKeesport resident
Sara J. Hanna, 83, of Donora, died Saturday, May 23, 2009, in Lake Park Nursing Home, Charlotte, N.C.
She was born March 27, 1926, in McKeesport, a daughter of Thomas and Behegee Joseph.
A homemaker for most of her life, she had worked as a government girl in Washington, D.C., during World War II.
She was a Mckeesport High School graduate and was a member of St. John’s Episcopal Church in Donora.
Surviving are two sons and daughters-in-law, Albert A. and Robyn Rolison-Hanna of Rostraver Township and John J. and Mechelle Hanna of Charlotte, N.C.; a daughter, Rebecca R. Hanna of Charlotte, N.C.; and two grandchildren, Royce J. and Gracie E. Hanna.
Deceased, in addition to her parents, are her husband, Albert Hanna, who died in 1989; a brother, Daniel Joseph; and two sisters, Emily Haddad and Martha Abraham.
Friends will be received from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday in Marshall Marra Funeral Home, 216 Chess Street, Monongahela. Friends and family who are planning to attend the funeral are asked to go directly to St. John’s Episcopal Church, 10th and Thompson Avenue, Donora, where the service will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, May 28, with the Rev. Robert Hanna officiating. Interment will follow in Monongahela Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Alzheimers Association, Western Carolina Chapter, 3800 Shamrock Dr., Charlotte, NC 28215, or the Lewy Body Dementia Association, 912 Killian Hill Rd. SW, Suite 202c, Lilburn, GA 30047.
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Regina H. Kinnan
Regina H. Kinnan, 94, of Waynesburg, died at 3 a.m. Monday, May 25, 2009, in Evergreen Assisted Living in Waynesburg.
Arrangements are incomplete and are being handled by Milliken and Throckmorton Funeral Home Inc., Waynesburg. A complete obituary will appear in a later edition.
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August C. Rigotti
U.S. Navy and Air Force veteran
Chief Master Sgt. August C. Rigotti, 84, formerly of Scott Township, died Friday, May 22, 2009.
He was born May 19, 1925, in McKeesport, a son of Thomas Rigotti and Minnie (Rigotti) Guidici and her husband, Vince Guidici.
Mr. Rigotti entered the U.S. Navy August 4, 1943, and was honorably discharged from the Navy March 17, 1946. He then immediately entered the U.S. Air Force, setting his sights on becoming a professional airman. He eventually reached the rank of chief master sergeant and retired July 31, 1967. He remained a member of the USAF Reserves until 1975. CMSgt Rigotti then began the JRAF-ROTC program and pioneered one of the first Aerospace Science and Education Schools located in North Allegheny. In recognition of his long and outstanding career in the U.S. Air Force and ROTC Program, he was awarded the Air Force Association Outstanding Citizen Award in October 1971.
He was the beloved husband of the late Josephine (O’Toole) Rigotti; loving father of Jody (Keith) Lucas of South Fayette and the late Thomas Rigotti; father-in-law of Margaret Rigotti; and grandfather of Aime, Carly and Tyler Lucas and Reanna Rigotti.
He also is survived by many brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews.
Friends will be received from 1 to 9 p.m. Wednesday in Beinhauer Funeral Home, 2828 Washington Road, Peters Township, 724-941-3211. A blessing service will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, May 28, in the funeral home. Entombment will be in Queen of Heaven Cemetery, Peters Township. Please add or view tributes at www.BeinhauerFamilyServices.com.
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Chester E. Silfies
Chester E. Silfies of Fredericktown died Monday, May 25, 2009, in Lasosky’s Personal Care Home in Clarksville.
Arrangements are incomplete and under the direction of Greenlee Funeral Home, Fredericktown. A complete obituary will appear in a later edition.
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Mary Skerl
Member of St. Francis of Assisi Church
Mary “Maym” Skerl, 91, of Finleyville, died Saturday, May 24, 2009, in Mt. Vernon of South Park Assisted Living Center.
She was born February 2, 1918, in Butler, a daughter of Frank and Anna Artac Martik.
Mrs. Skerl was a homemaker and member of St. Francis of Assisi Church in Finleyville and Finleyville GoldenAgers.
Surviving are a brother, Louis Martik of Finleyville; two sisters, Frances Lis of Washington and Helen Shuder of Connellsville; and many nieces and nephews.
Deceased are her husband, Harry Skerl, who died in 1996, and three brothers, Frank, Thomas and William Martik.
Friends will be received from 4 to 8 p.m. Wednesday in Kegel Funeral Home Inc., Tim P. Kegel, supervisor, 3560 Washington Avenue, Finleyville. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Thursday, May 28, in St. Francis of Assisi Church, Finleyville, with the Rev. Robert J. Boyle as celebrant. Entombment will follow in Queen of Heaven Mausoleum, Peters Township. Memorial contributions may be made to Finleyville Volunteer Fire Department, 3560 Washington Avenue, Finleyville, PA 15332.
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Lawrence Udovich
Lawrence “Hobo” Udovich, 63, of Crucible, died Monday, May 25, 2009, in Ruby Memorial Hospital, Morgantown, W.Va.
Arrangements are incomplete and will be announced by Yoskovich Funeral Home (724-966-5500), Martin J. Yoskovich, funeral director, 300 South Vine Street, Route 88, Carmichaels. For additional information and to sign the online guest book, please visit www.YoskovichFH.com.
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Riley Nathaniel Wise
Riley Nathaniel Wise, infant son of Michael Andrew Wise and Shawna Jean Jeffries of Waynesburg, died unexpectedly Saturday, May 23, 2009, in Salem Hospital, Ohio.
He was born December 9, 2008, in Washington.
Surviving, in addition to his parents, are two brothers, Kaiden and Camren Wise; paternal grandparents Michael and Lisa Wise Farabee of Waynesburg; maternal grandparents Jeffrey R. and Melinda Moore Jeffries of Mt. Morris and Cindy Jeffries and Kenneth Yeager of Waynesburg; paternal great-grandparents William and Jeannette Wise of Carmichaels; and maternal great-grandparents Ralph and Diane Jeffries of Jefferson, Carol Keller of Waynesburg and Jean Victor and John Carter of Waynesburg.
All services will be private and held at the convenience of the family. Arrangements are under the direction of Rush Funeral Home Inc., Rogersville.
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Charles Albert Beerens Sr., 91, of Fallowfield Township, died in a sudden roofing accident Sunday, May 24, 2009, at his farm.
He was born December 8, 1917, in Fallowfield Township, a son of Belgian immigrants Jean Joseph and Marie Elizabeth Melenyzer Beerens. During the Great Depression of the 1930s, his family moved to Burbank, Calif., where he lost both his mother and brother. After the war, he resettled in Fallowfield Township at his beloved family farm to raise his family.
Mr. Beerens served in the U.S. Navy during World War II for more than three years. He was on the USS Walke during the D-Day invasion of Normandy and later served on the USS John R. Pierce in the Pacific Theater. He witnessed the Japanese surrender in Tokyo harbor in 1945. During the war, he married Juanita Dalton, from Eastern Kentucky, who served as a MASH nurse in Britain during the war.
He was a consummate craftsman who worked as an electrician for Bethlehem Steel and Washington Steel, while doing refrigeration as a side trade. He attended California College in the 1930s, studying industrial arts until the outbreak of the war. After the war, he graduated from Coyne Electrical College in Chicago, Ill. A woodworker, gunsmith, furniture maker and farmer, he spent much of his time in the outdoors hunting and climbing the hills of Northern Pennsylvania. A self provider and strong individualist who lived life on his own terms, he will be greatly missed by his friends and family.
Surviving are his four children, Rosalind (James) Blair and Sherry (Jeffery) Sager, both of Fayette County, Joseph Charles Beerens of Pittsburgh and Charles Albert Beerens Jr. of Fallowfield Township; seven grandchildren, Jennifer Blair Durham, Brandon Blair, Rachel Sager Lynch, Molly Sager, Matthew Sager, Amanda Jane Beerens and Madeline Beerens; and four great-grandchildren.
In addition to his parents, deceased are his wife, Juanita, in 1985, and a brother, Joseph Alfred Beerens.
Friends will be received from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday in Melenyzer-DuBarr Funeral Homes and Cremation Service Inc., 825 Fallowfield Avenue, Charleroi, where services will be held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, May 27. Interment will follow in Maple Creek Cemetery. Online condolences will be accepted at www.melenyzer-dubarr.com.
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Shirley Christy Benamati
Enjoyed baking and cooking for her family
Shirley Christy Benamati, 76, of Fredericktown (Milfred Terrace), formerly of Mather, died Saturday, May 23, 2009, in her home, after a brief illness, surrounded by her loving family.
She was born January 19, 1933, in Fredericktown, a daughter of Edward and Elizabeth Shaw Christy.
Mrs. Benamati was a 1951 graduate of East Bethlehem Township High School.
She was a homemaker and a member of Millsboro Presbyterian Church.
Mrs. Benamati also worked on the East Bethlehem Township Election Board and at Centerville Food Bank.
She enjoyed baking and cooking for family gatherings and holidays at her home.
On June 30, 1951, she married Bernard A. “Benny” Benamati, who died August 1, 2005.
Surviving are three children, Cynthia Crockard of Mather, Frank Benamati and wife Diane of Mather and Marcia Stockdale Ottoviani and husband Domenick of Newell; 11 grandchildren, James Crockard and wife Melanie, Brian Crockard, Frank Crockard, Charles Crockard, David Benamati and wife Ronette, Bernard Benamati (currently serving in Iraq) and wife Deanna, Christopher Stockdale, Anthony Stockdale and wife Bridget, Lyndee Stockdale Myrga, Domenick Ottoviani and Alison Ottoviani; and great-grandchildren Dylan Crockard, Austin Crockard, Dominic Benamati, Sydney Hare, Jonah Stockdale, Brenden Keller and Trevor Tarr. She was expecting great-grandchild Ryder Santino Stockdale.
Deceased, in addition to her husband, are a granddaughter, Kelli Renee Stockdale; three sisters, Evelyn Whetsell, Norma Blair and Althea McElroy Swaney; and three brothers, John Christy, Wilbur Christy and Wallace Christy.
Friends will be received from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday in Behm Funeral Homes Inc., 1477 Jefferson Road, Jefferson, Gregory P. Rohanna, supervisor, where services will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, May 28, with the Rev. Ford Campbell officiating.
Interment will follow in Greene County Memorial Park, Morgan Township.
Memorial contributions may be made to Millsboro Presbyterian Church. Condolences may be expressed online at www.behmfuneralhomes.net.
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Danny W. Bendik
Enjoyed life to the fullest
Danny W. Bendik, 63, of Amity, died Sunday, May 24, 2009, in Washington Hospital.
He was born September 12, 1945, in Walla Walla, Wash., a son of the late Joseph W. and Margaret Stephens Bendik.
Mr. Bendik was a 1963 graduate of Bethlehem Center High School.
He served in the U.S. Army as a cook earning a rank of E-5 while stationed in Fort Knox. He worked as a meat cutter at Bi-Lo foods for 28 years and most recently at Sam’s Club in Washington where he received his 10 year pin and retired in 2008.
Mr. Bendik was a member of North Ten Mile Baptist Church.
He was president of Ten Mile Valley Baseball League of Amity, coached many baseball teams of all ages, played softball for Lone Pine, where he was nicknamed “Big D,” and won many hitting awards.
Mr. Bendik also loved the Pittsburgh Steelers, enjoyed taking his family to Steelers spring training camp at St. Vincent and was honored to be a VIP guest at the Mel Blount Roast. He was a great husband, dad and “Pappy” who enjoyed life to the fullest.
He shared 43 years of marriage with his wife, Arlene Doty of Amity, who survives.
Also surviving are three children, Stephen M. (Paula) Bendik of Ten Mile, David W. (Heather) Bendik of Ruff Creek and Cheri A. (Don) House of Mooresville, N.C.; a brother, Joe (Jeanne) Bendik of McDonald; a sister, Susan Moore of Washington; and seven grandchildren, Chris, Jacob, Justin, Emily, Haley and Hunter Bendik and Joshua House.
Deceased, in addition to his parents, is a sister, Barbara Bendik.
Friends will be received from 2 to 9 p.m. Tuesday in Nichol Funeral Home, 1873 East Maiden St., Washington, where services will be held at 11 a.m. Wednesday, May 27, with the Rev. Gary Schneider officiating. Interment will follow in North Ten Mile Cemetery. Military rites will be accorded by American Legion Post 744. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made in Mr. Bendik’s name to American Cancer Society.
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Esther Montgomery Buchanan
Former Claysville resident
Esther M. Buchanan M.D., 94, of Utah, passed away Tuesday, May 19, 2009.
She was born July 15, 1914, in Claysville, a daughter of John Nelson Montgomery and Grace McClain Clarke.
Dr. Buchanan graduated from Claysville High School in 1931 at age 16. During her high school and college years, she worked as a postal clerk, gas station attendant and in the library. She earned a bachelor of science degree at Muskingum College, New Concord, Ohio, in 1935 at age 20. She also was the grateful recipient of a Senatorial Scholarship that permitted her attendance at Temple University Medical School in Philadelphia, Class of 1939, at the age of 24.
She first established a practice in Souderton.
On Dec. 23, 1945, she married G.A. Buchanan Jr., whom she later divorced. She received her postdoctoral diploma in anesthesiology from New York University and completed an anesthesia residency at Bellevue Medical Center, N.Y., in 1949, while residing in Lake Success, Long Island, N.Y. She inspired her husband to attend medical school, which brought the Buchanan family to Utah and the University of Utah Medical School. Dr. Buchanan practiced medicine at LDS Hospital from 1950 to 1955, Richfield and surrounding communities from 1956 to 1960 and Holy Cross Hospital from 1960 to 1984. She retired while serving as Holy Cross Hospital Anesthesiology department chair. Dr. Buchanan maintained lifetime membership in the American Medical Association and American Society of Anesthesiologists.
Dr. Buchanan valued education and those who enabled others to attain it. Although independent, she was always generous to others with her time and money. She was an avid traveler, visiting nearly every state in the United States and more than a dozen foreign countries. She enjoyed cruise ships, crossing the Atlantic on the QE II through the Panama Canal to Alaska and the Mediterranean. She loved the arts and was a Utah Symphony season ticket holder for years. Dr. Buchanan often was found in the desert looking for rocks and fossils or in antique stores, collecting early American glassware and antiques. Yellowstone National Park was a particularly favorite retreat. She loved reading and surrounded herself with good books and periodicals. Unfortunately, wet macular degeneration closed her view of the world and rheumatoid arthritis limited her mobility in later years. She exemplified doing and seeing what one can while one is able.
Surviving are a daughter, Dana A. Buchanan of Sandy, Utah; sons G.A. “Buck” Buchanan III, Heber and Alan M. Buchanan (Cynthia) of Sandy, Utah; a sister, Flora Green of Arizona; a special niece, Christina (Rick) Millard of Ogden, Utah; grandchildren Sharon, Scott, Karen and Becky Buchanan, Collin, Josh, Zach and Tim Perschon and Katy Leigh Buchanan; two great-grandchildren, Howie and Brendan John; a sister-in-law, Mabel Montgomery; and many nieces and nephews.
Deceased are her parents; a brother, John N. Montgomery III; two sons, H. Merrill and Grant M. Buchanan; and a granddaughter, Elizabeth Buchanan.
Employees of Sunrise of Sandy and CareSource were caring and understanding during her last years.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to the National Park Foundation, the Utah Symphony or a favorite institute of higher learning. An informal open-house in honor of Dr. Buchanan will be held from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Sunday, May 31, in Sunrise of Sandy, 2130 East 9400 South, Sandy, Utah. Interment will be in Larkin Sunset Gardens, Sandy. Online condolences to the family may be left at www.larkinmortuary.com/cond.php.
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Laura L. Cox
Member of St. Hilary Roman Catholic Church
Laura L. Cox, 72, of Washington, died Sunday, May 24, 2009, in Kade Nursing Home, Washington.
She was born July 10, 1936, in Washington, a daughter of Carl Clyde and Mary Margaret Fonner Engle.
Mrs. Cox was a member of St. Hilary Roman Catholic Church.
She was employed as a case worker in Washington County Domestic Relations office.
Mrs. Cox was a longtime member of Washington County Democratic Women.
She enjoyed crocheting, crafts, bingo and going to casinos.
On August 7, 1954, in Washington, she married Paul Raymond Cox Jr., who died September 9, 2005.
Surviving are a son, Kurt (Debbie) Cox of Claysville; a daughter-in-law, Kathleen Cox of Washington; a brother, Dave (Gladys) Fonner Engle of Washington; three sisters, Mary Margaret (Richard) Mowl of Lone Pine, Pearl Ann Amos of Washington and Karen Ann (Joseph) Sulc of Washington; a sister-in-law, Maureen Engle of Meadow Lands; five grandchildren, Justin Paul Cox, Presley Marie Cox, Clayton J. Cox Jr., Brittany Lynn Cox and Andrew Snyder; and three great-grandchildren, Sydney Lynn Cox, Jay Paul Cox and Austin Miller.
Deceased are a son, Clayton J. Cox Sr., and a brother, Carl “Bud” Engle.
Friends will be received from 7 to 9 p.m. Tuesday in Michael H. Heinrich Funeral Home, 219 Main St., Claysville. Services and interment will be private and held at the family’s convenience. A guest book is available at www.heinrichfuneralhome.com.
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Rudolph DeAngelo Jr.
U.S. Air Force veteran
Rudolph (Sut) DeAngelo Jr., 71, of Denbo Heights, died Saturday, May 23, 2009, in Monongahela Valley Hospital.
He was born April 7, 1938, in Chewtown, a son of Rudolph Sr. and Jennie Presock DeAngelo.
Mr. DeAngelo was a U.S. Air Force veteran. He was a member of AMVETS Post 103 Hopwood.
He retired from Maxwell Lock and Dam in 1999 and retired as a supervisory firefighter with the FAA as an aircraft rescue and firefighter at the Metropolitan Washington Airport in 1979.
Mr. DeAngelo also was a member of Preseverance Lodge 208 AF&AM in Indian Head, Md.
He was a former volunteer firefighter for Denbo-Vesta 6 Fire Department.
Surviving are his wife, Dorothy Kelshian DeAngelo; a brother, Michael DeAngelo and wife Janet of Brownsville; two sisters, Charlotte Pinardi and husband Albino and Gloria Townsend, all of Allison; and several nieces and nephews.
Deceased are two brothers, Eugene and Wayne DeAngelo.
Friends will be received from 2 to 9 p.m. Thursday in Skirpan Funeral Home, 135 Park Street, Brownsville, where services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, May 29, with the Rev. Roland O’Brien officiating. Interment will be held in Westland Cemetery.
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Virginia Bates Forman
Longtime Jefferson and Clarksville resident
Virginia Bates Forman, 79, of Clarksville, died Sunday, May 24, 2009, in Washington Hospital.
She was born January 12, 1930, in Fairhope, a daughter of Samuel H. and Mary Noakes Watson.
Mrs. Forman had worked at Washington-Greene Community Action and at her retirement, she worked in the Greene County Commissioners Office.
She had lived in the Jefferson and Clarksville areas most of her life.
Mrs. Forman was a member of Greene Valley Presbyterian Church in Carmichaels.
She was married to Glenn O. Bates, her first husband, who died October 24, 1978, and her second husband, Donald E. Forman Sr., who died March 20, 1987.
Surviving are two daughters, Janet Everly and husband Bill of Morgantown, W.Va., and Joyce Bates and fiance Wayne Smith of Weirton, W.Va.; three sons, D. Glenn Bates and wife Anna of Clarksville, Chris A. Bates of Carmichaels and David B. Bates and wife Kelly of Rices Landing; five grandchildren, William D. Everly, Daniel Everly, Sara Lynn Bates, Katlin Bates and Emma Mitchell Bates; a great-grandson, Christopher Michael Everly; and two brothers, Albert G. Watson and George E. Watson, both of Clarksville.
Deceased, in addition to her first and second husband, are a sister, Rose Santucci; two brothers, James V. Watson and Howard B. Watson; and several brothers and sisters in infancy.
Friends will be received from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday and 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday in Behm Funeral Homes Inc., 1477 Jefferson Road, Jefferson, Gregory P. Rohanna, supervisor, where services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, May 29, with the Rev. Keith Larson and the Rev. Harold O. Kelley officiating.
Interment will follow in Greene County Memorial Park, Morgan Township.
Condolences may be expressed online at www.behmfuneralhomes.net.
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Shirley Caldwell Fryer
Member of Enon Presbyterian Church
Shirley “Popcorn” Caldwell Fryer, 78, of Enon Valley, died Monday, May 25, 2009, in Allegheny General Hospital, Pittsburgh.
She was born February 24, 1931, in Hickory, a daughter of John and Helen Stewart Caldwell.
Mrs. Fryer was a homemaker and a member of Enon Presbyterian Church and was very active with her church. She was a member of the choir, session, a trustee and cooked for the church community dinners. She also was a member of the Red Hat Society and was dedicated to her husband, children and grandchildren.
Surviving are her husband, John W. Fryer; five children, two daughters-in-law and two sons-in-law, Chess Fryer of Beaver Falls, Gary Fryer and wife Lisa of Enon Valley, daughter-in-law Sue Cupp Fryer of Columbiana, Ohio, Melanie Stanyard and husband Terry of Enon Valley, Barbara Rowe and husband Bert of Darlington and Susan Fryer of Enon Valley; 15 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren and one on the way; two brothers, two sisters and two sisters-in-law, Donald Caldwell of Hollywood, Calif., Jack Caldwell and wife Elaine of Hickory, Marjorie Curran of Hickory, Barbara Fasnacht of Washington and sister-in-law Carol Caldwell of Washington; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
She also leaves many friends, including a dear friend whom she considered a daughter, Sue Fadse of Follansbee, W.Va.
“Popcorn” will be dearly missed by all who knew her.
In addition to her parents, deceased are a son, Randy Fryer; and a brother, Jerry Caldwell.
Friends will be received from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday and 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday in Enon Presbyterian Church, Enon Valley, where services will be conducted at 10 a.m. Friday, May 29, with her pastor, the Rev. Richard Baker, officiating. Interment will follow in Little Beaver Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Enon Presbyterian Church. Campbell’s Chippewa Funeral Home, 2618 Darlington Road, Chippewa, Beaver Falls, is in charge of all arrangements.
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Sara J. Hanna
Former McKeesport resident
Sara J. Hanna, 83, of Donora, died Saturday, May 23, 2009, in Lake Park Nursing Home, Charlotte, N.C.
She was born March 27, 1926, in McKeesport, a daughter of Thomas and Behegee Joseph.
A homemaker for most of her life, she had worked as a government girl in Washington, D.C., during World War II.
She was a Mckeesport High School graduate and was a member of St. John’s Episcopal Church in Donora.
Surviving are two sons and daughters-in-law, Albert A. and Robyn Rolison-Hanna of Rostraver Township and John J. and Mechelle Hanna of Charlotte, N.C.; a daughter, Rebecca R. Hanna of Charlotte, N.C.; and two grandchildren, Royce J. and Gracie E. Hanna.
Deceased, in addition to her parents, are her husband, Albert Hanna, who died in 1989; a brother, Daniel Joseph; and two sisters, Emily Haddad and Martha Abraham.
Friends will be received from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday in Marshall Marra Funeral Home, 216 Chess Street, Monongahela. Friends and family who are planning to attend the funeral are asked to go directly to St. John’s Episcopal Church, 10th and Thompson Avenue, Donora, where the service will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, May 28, with the Rev. Robert Hanna officiating. Interment will follow in Monongahela Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Alzheimers Association, Western Carolina Chapter, 3800 Shamrock Dr., Charlotte, NC 28215, or the Lewy Body Dementia Association, 912 Killian Hill Rd. SW, Suite 202c, Lilburn, GA 30047.
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Regina H. Kinnan
Regina H. Kinnan, 94, of Waynesburg, died at 3 a.m. Monday, May 25, 2009, in Evergreen Assisted Living in Waynesburg.
Arrangements are incomplete and are being handled by Milliken and Throckmorton Funeral Home Inc., Waynesburg. A complete obituary will appear in a later edition.
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August C. Rigotti
U.S. Navy and Air Force veteran
Chief Master Sgt. August C. Rigotti, 84, formerly of Scott Township, died Friday, May 22, 2009.
He was born May 19, 1925, in McKeesport, a son of Thomas Rigotti and Minnie (Rigotti) Guidici and her husband, Vince Guidici.
Mr. Rigotti entered the U.S. Navy August 4, 1943, and was honorably discharged from the Navy March 17, 1946. He then immediately entered the U.S. Air Force, setting his sights on becoming a professional airman. He eventually reached the rank of chief master sergeant and retired July 31, 1967. He remained a member of the USAF Reserves until 1975. CMSgt Rigotti then began the JRAF-ROTC program and pioneered one of the first Aerospace Science and Education Schools located in North Allegheny. In recognition of his long and outstanding career in the U.S. Air Force and ROTC Program, he was awarded the Air Force Association Outstanding Citizen Award in October 1971.
He was the beloved husband of the late Josephine (O’Toole) Rigotti; loving father of Jody (Keith) Lucas of South Fayette and the late Thomas Rigotti; father-in-law of Margaret Rigotti; and grandfather of Aime, Carly and Tyler Lucas and Reanna Rigotti.
He also is survived by many brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews.
Friends will be received from 1 to 9 p.m. Wednesday in Beinhauer Funeral Home, 2828 Washington Road, Peters Township, 724-941-3211. A blessing service will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, May 28, in the funeral home. Entombment will be in Queen of Heaven Cemetery, Peters Township. Please add or view tributes at www.BeinhauerFamilyServices.com.
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Chester E. Silfies
Chester E. Silfies of Fredericktown died Monday, May 25, 2009, in Lasosky’s Personal Care Home in Clarksville.
Arrangements are incomplete and under the direction of Greenlee Funeral Home, Fredericktown. A complete obituary will appear in a later edition.
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Mary Skerl
Member of St. Francis of Assisi Church
Mary “Maym” Skerl, 91, of Finleyville, died Saturday, May 24, 2009, in Mt. Vernon of South Park Assisted Living Center.
She was born February 2, 1918, in Butler, a daughter of Frank and Anna Artac Martik.
Mrs. Skerl was a homemaker and member of St. Francis of Assisi Church in Finleyville and Finleyville GoldenAgers.
Surviving are a brother, Louis Martik of Finleyville; two sisters, Frances Lis of Washington and Helen Shuder of Connellsville; and many nieces and nephews.
Deceased are her husband, Harry Skerl, who died in 1996, and three brothers, Frank, Thomas and William Martik.
Friends will be received from 4 to 8 p.m. Wednesday in Kegel Funeral Home Inc., Tim P. Kegel, supervisor, 3560 Washington Avenue, Finleyville. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Thursday, May 28, in St. Francis of Assisi Church, Finleyville, with the Rev. Robert J. Boyle as celebrant. Entombment will follow in Queen of Heaven Mausoleum, Peters Township. Memorial contributions may be made to Finleyville Volunteer Fire Department, 3560 Washington Avenue, Finleyville, PA 15332.
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Lawrence Udovich
Lawrence “Hobo” Udovich, 63, of Crucible, died Monday, May 25, 2009, in Ruby Memorial Hospital, Morgantown, W.Va.
Arrangements are incomplete and will be announced by Yoskovich Funeral Home (724-966-5500), Martin J. Yoskovich, funeral director, 300 South Vine Street, Route 88, Carmichaels. For additional information and to sign the online guest book, please visit www.YoskovichFH.com.
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Riley Nathaniel Wise
Riley Nathaniel Wise, infant son of Michael Andrew Wise and Shawna Jean Jeffries of Waynesburg, died unexpectedly Saturday, May 23, 2009, in Salem Hospital, Ohio.
He was born December 9, 2008, in Washington.
Surviving, in addition to his parents, are two brothers, Kaiden and Camren Wise; paternal grandparents Michael and Lisa Wise Farabee of Waynesburg; maternal grandparents Jeffrey R. and Melinda Moore Jeffries of Mt. Morris and Cindy Jeffries and Kenneth Yeager of Waynesburg; paternal great-grandparents William and Jeannette Wise of Carmichaels; and maternal great-grandparents Ralph and Diane Jeffries of Jefferson, Carol Keller of Waynesburg and Jean Victor and John Carter of Waynesburg.
All services will be private and held at the convenience of the family. Arrangements are under the direction of Rush Funeral Home Inc., Rogersville.
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