O'HARA JOANNE E. Age 65, of Dravosburg, passed away on March 29, 2019. Joanne is survived by her beloved Husband, of 22 years, John O'Hara; beloved mother of Lester Nolder and Tammy (Duane Jr.) Kavka; grammie Jo of Luke and Michael Nolder; mamaw of Kylie and Kenna Kavka; sister-in-law of Chris Noll and Chris (Bill) Lowe; aunt of Melissa and Samantha; great-aunt of Lena; as well as many extended family and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, Charles and Lucille Noll; and her brother, Ronald Noll. Services are private and have been entrusted into the care of JEFFERSON MEMORIAL FUNERAL HOME, INC., 301 Curry Hollow Rd, Pittsburgh. Please consider a donation in Joanne's memory to Pleasant Hills Pet Hospital, c/o Funds for Feral Cats, 171 Green Drive, Pleasant Hills, 15236. Online condolences may be left at www.jeffersonmemorial.biz. Send condolences post-gazette.com/gb
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O'HARA JOANNE E. AGE 65, OF DR...
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PRIMUS ROBERT NATHANIEL AGE 82...
PRIMUS ROBERT NATHANIEL Age 82, died at his residence on March 24, 2019. He was born on February 28, 1937 to the late Abram Primus and Alice Viverette Primus. A student-athlete and graduate of Fifth Avenue High School in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Robert attended Duquesne University where he majored in history. On June 30, 1960, Robert was inducted into the Armed Services of the United States, and on May 30, 1966, he was Honorably Discharged from the United States Army. He then worked as a customer service agent for Trans World Airlines until his retirement. Robert met his wife Janet Owens at Eddie's Restaurant in Pittsburgh's Hill District and became a member of Webster Avenue Christian & Missionary Alliance Church. Robert moved to North Carolina in 2002 and fellowshipped at First Baptist Church of Durham where he attended Sunday worship services, Bible for Life classes, and a midweek men's Bible study group. Robert is survived by his wife of 52 years, Janet Owens Primus; his sons, Guy Primus (Heather) of Los Angeles, CA; Kevin Primus (Hyun) of Durham; his sister, Nancy Primus Greene (Eric) of Pasadena, CA; and his grandchildren, Daniel, Juliana, Mia, Grant, Elyse, Clarke, and Noah Primus. Robert was preceded in death by his brother, Donald Primus; and his sister, Patricia Hale. A funeral service will be held 11:00 a.m., Saturday, March 30, 2019 in the Chapel of HALL-WYNNE FUNERAL SERVICE, in Durham, NC. Dr. Andrew Davis will officiate. Burial will follow at Maplewood Cemetery. Friends may visit from 10:00-11:00 a.m., on Saturday, March 30, 2019 prior to the service in the chapel. The Primus family is under the care of Hall-Wynne Funeral Service. Online condolences: www.hallwynne.com Send condolences post-gazette.com/gb
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LITTLE BETTY B. AGE 89, OF MU...
LITTLE BETTY B. Age 89, of Murrysville, formerly of Houston, PA passed away peacefully with her two sons by her side on Thursday, March 28, 2019. She was born August 10, 1929 in Pittsburgh, daughter of the late Edwin and Alice (Hutchinson) Blumling. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved husband, James Alvin Little Jr. She was a longtime member of the First Presbyterian Church, Murrysville. She loved cross stitching and cooking big family meals. Betty was fondly referred to as The Friend to the Friendless as she volunteered at Forbes Hospital visiting patients. Her smile always brought warmth and happiness to those she visited. She also volunteered for the toy committee of the Syria Shriners which she enjoyed so much. She is survived by her two sons, James A. III (Sue) Little of Harrison City and Ed (Debbie) Little of Murrysville; five grandchildren, Jordan Ross, Jennifer (Rob) Plowman, Christopher James Little, Jimmy Little, and Bryce Little. She is also survived by two great-grandchildren, Levi and Lucianna June; and two sisters, Dolores Reynolds of Dormont and Viola Trent of Bellevue. She was so proud of her two boys and truly loved and adored her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Visitation Sunday, March 31, 2019 from 1-4 p.m. and Monday, 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m., at the HART FUNERAL HOME INC., Murrysville. A Funeral Service will be held on Tuesday in the First Presbyterian Church, Murrysville at 10 a.m., with Pastor Ed Gray officiating. Everyone please meet at church. Entombment will follow in Jefferson Memorial Park, Pleasant Hills. If desired, memorial contributions may be made to Shriners Hospital for Children or Forbes Hospital in Betty's name. www.hartfuneralhomeinc.com Send condolences post-gazette.com/gb
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FEINEIGLE DORIS J. (KOHLER) ON...
FEINEIGLE DORIS J. (KOHLER) On Thursday, March 28, 2019, Doris J. (Kohler) age 93, of South Park. Beloved wife of the late Robert C. Feineigle; mother of Robert E. (Lynn M.) Feineigle, Debra L. (Bernie) Beliunas and Jeffrey P. Feineigle; grandmother of Amy L. (Michael) Work, Todd R. Feineigle, Cristine A. Feineigle, Mark A. Feineigle and the late Ryan L. Beliunas; great-grandmother of Delainey Ryan Work and Bennett Ryan Feineigle; sister of Marjorie Richards and the late Herb (Shirley) Kohler and Edward (Ann) Kohler; sister-in-law of the late Jack Richards; also survived by nieces and nephews. Doris loved spending time with her extended family, especially around the holidays, and going on bus trips to the casinos with her children. She loved bowling with her husband and flower gardening at her home. Friends received Sunday, 6-8 p.m. and Monday, 2-4 and 6-8 p.m., at the GRIFFITH FUNERAL HOME, INC., 5636 Brownsville Road, (at 6th St.) South Park Twp., (412) 655-4600 where a service will be held on Tuesday at 11 a.m. Condolences may be offered for the family at: www.GriffithFH.com Send condolences post-gazette.com/gb
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RINCHIUSO ANTOINETTE "LUCARELL...
RINCHIUSO ANTOINETTE "LUCARELLI" Of Ross Twp., on Friday, March 29th 2019. Wife of the late James V. Rinchiuso; beloved sister of Gloria Spirko, Caroline H. Grogan, and the late Michael, Phillip, and Nicholas Lucarelli; also survived by many loving nieces and nephews. No visitation. Mass of Christian Burial in St. Teresa of Avila Church Monday 10 a.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to a charity of your choice or a Mass for Antoinette. Arrangements by DEVLIN FUNERAL HOME, INC. Send condolences post-gazette.com/gb
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SCOTT JEFFREY MICHAEL OF UPPER...
SCOTT JEFFREY MICHAEL Of Upper St. Clair, unexpectedly on Tuesday, March 26, 2019. Beloved husband of Jean (Osswald) Scott; proud father of Alexis Scott. A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, April 27th at 2:00 p.m. in Westminster Presbyterian Church. Complete obituary to follow. Funeral arrangements by BEINHAUER'S 724-941-3211. Please add or view tributes at www.beinhauer.com. Send condolences post-gazette.com/gb
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CALOCCIA EVELYN (MARRACCINI) A...
CALOCCIA EVELYN (MARRACCINI) Age 80, of New Eagle, died Thursday, March 28, 2019, in UPMC Presbyterian Hospital, Pittsburgh. Born June 16, 1938 in Gallatin; she was the daughter of Nello Marraccini and Dena (Juliani) Marraccini-Reale. Evelyn was a 1956 graduate of Monongahela High School and for over 20 years, was the Tax Collector for New Eagle Borough. A member of St. Damien of Molokai Parish (former St. Anthony Church) in Monongahela, for many years, she was a devoted supporter and booster of the former Mon-Valley Catholic High School. Known for her Specialty foods and meatballs, Evelyn will be missed by her friends in the monthly card club; surviving are a daughter and son-in-law, Juliann and Leonard Romasco of New Eagle; three grandchildren, Anthony, Dominic and Maria Romasco; her brother Gene and wife JoAnn Marraccini of New Eagle; her lifelong friend JoAnne Rosini of Monongahela; along with several nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband Frank F. "Cal" "Sonny" Caloccia who died September 19, 2017; a step-father Mario Reale; and a brother-in-law and sister-in-law Fred and Regina Ambrose. Friends will be received at the MARSHALL MARRA FUNERAL HOME, 216 Chess Street, Monongahela, 724-258-6767, marshallmarrafuneralhome.com from 2-8 p.m. Monday. Blessing prayers will begin in the funeral home 9:30 a.m. Tuesday, April 2, 2019 followed by a 10 a.m. Mass of Christian Burial con celebrated by Fr. Kevin Domink and Fr. William Terza in St. Damien of Molokai Parish, Monongahela. Interment will follow in Sacred Heart Cemetery (Carroll Twp.). Send condolences post-gazette.com/gb
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KOOSER EDWARD SR. AGE 87, ON S...
KOOSER EDWARD SR. Age 87, on Saturday March 23, 2019, of Wilkinsburg. Beloved Husband of Elsie E. (Gilliland); loving father of Edward Kooser, Jr.; dear grandfather of Sarah Fedunok and Emily Turner; great-grandfather of Jude; loving brother of Edwin and Shirley. Retired from Western Pennsylvania School of the Deaf. Friends received Tuesday ONLY 2-8 p.m. at the THOMAS L. NIED FUNERAL HOME, INC., 7441 Washington St., Swissvale. Service at the Funeral Home, Wednesday 11 a.m. www.niedfuneralhome.com Send condolences post-gazette.com/gb
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HOPPER BARBARA ANN (SINAGRA) I...
HOPPER BARBARA ANN (SINAGRA) It is with great sadness we share that Barbara; sister, mother, grandmother, aunt, and friend to many, passed peacefully on Thursday, February 28, 2019, at the age of 85. Barbara was born on September 29, 1933, to Thomas Sinagra and Helen (Mayorosh) Sinagra, in Pittsburgh, PA. She was preceded in death by her parents and two of her sisters, Rose (Sinagra) Meehan and Carol Sinagra. She is survived by her son, John (Karen); and grandson, Kenny (CA); sister, Margie Sinagra (AZ); son, Rick (PA); along with many nieces, nephews, many special and close friends, and her beloved cat, Max. She was a graduate of Oliver High School in Pittsburgh, PA. In 1973, she moved to California where she worked at Santa Monica bank for many years, rising to the office of Vice President. She was also very active in the Santa Monica Rotary Club from 1999 through 2003. In 2006, she moved back to Pittsburgh where she spent several years, then moved to Tucson, AZ where she spent her final years. Barbara was a woman with a great sense of humor, quick wit, and a love for cats and the Pittsburgh Steelers. She loved word games and was incredibly gifted when it came to crossword puzzles. She took pride in completing the Sunday paper crossword puzzles quickly and correctly! She also loved to cook and was well known for chicken pot pies, chex mix, and ice cream cookies. Barbara will be missed by all who knew her. Send condolences post-gazette.com/gb
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SCHLANGER MARGARET "PEGGY A. A...
SCHLANGER MARGARET "PEGGY A. Age 89, of Avalon, formerly of North Side, died peacefully with her family by her side on Thursday, March 28, 2019. Beloved wife of the late Charles J.; loving mother of Darlene Schlanger and Kathy (Jerry) Coyne; proud grandmother of Katie (Dante) Coyne O'Donnell; and great-grandmother of Ava, Gavin, Davis, Savannah and Xavier; sister of Joan Kello; a special thank you to her niece, Cindy and friend, Sally for all their help. Family will welcome friends Sunday, 2-5 and 6-8 p.m., at the SCHELLHAAS FUNERAL HOME INC., 388 Center Avenue, West View, PA 15229. Mass of Christian burial in Church of the Assumption on Monday at 10:00 a.m. Peggy enjoyed life with her family and friends. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Arthritis National Research Foundation, 5354 E. 2nd Street #201, Long Beach, CA 90803. Please pay tribute at: www.schellhaasfh.com. Send condolences post-gazette.com/gb
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STACHELEK NORMAN C., SR. AGE 8...
STACHELEK NORMAN C., SR. Age 89, of Shaler Twp. on Friday March 29, 2019; beloved husband of the late Antoinette "Netts" (Welsh); loving father of Norman J. Jr. (Beverly), Donald R., Barbara (Greg) Aippersbach and Bill (Leslie); dear grandfather of Lori, Ryan, Krista, Natalie, Nathan, Noah, Brian and Shannon; dear great-grandfather of Evan, Emma, Mayor, Daily, Hanna, RI, Addy, Evelyn and Paige; brother of Leonard Stachelek. Norm was a US Army Korean War Veteran. No Visitation. A memorial mass will be held at St. Ursula Church. Allison Park, PA. on Saturday, April 6th at 9:30 a.m. Donations may be sent to the American Cancer Society. Am by BOCK FUNERAL HOME, LTD., Glenshaw. Send condolences post-gazette.com/gb
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RUSS DONALD R. AGE 87, ON WEDN...
RUSS DONALD R. Age 87, on Wednesday, March 27, 2019, of Brentwood. Beloved husband of 63 years to the late Lorraine V. Russ; also preceded in death by his daughter, Dawnette Stine; father of Donald R. Russ II, Dedra A. (John) Girman, Dean S. and Drew K. Russ; son of the late Steven and Mae Russ; brother of the late Steven K. Russ; adored pap of Bryan Russ, Donald Russ III, Devan (Zach) Hawkinberry, Mackenzie Russ, Shane, Spencer and Abigail Girman; proud great-grand pap of Elijah Hawkinberry; also survived by numerous nieces and nephews. Don was a longtime Brentwood resident and active member of the community. He was a Korean War veteran and a member of the U.S. Army Honor Guard. Don worked for J and L Steel for more than 40 years and devoted his life to supporting his wife and family. Friends will be received at the JOHN F. SLATER FUNERAL HOME, INC., 412-881-4100, 4201 Brownsville Road, Brentwood 15227 on Saturday and Sunday, March 30 and 31, 2019 from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Funeral prayer on Monday morning at 9:45. Mass of Christian Burial in St. Sylvester Church at 10:30 a.m. Please send condolences to www.johnfslater.com Send condolences post-gazette.com/gb
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QUERING LEONA MARIE AGE 87, OF...
QUERING LEONA MARIE Age 87, of Bethel Park, passed away surrounded by her loving family on March 30, 2019. Leona is survived by her beloved children, Barie (Allison) Quering, Andrea (Mark) Kruszewski, Michelle (James Craig) Wolota, and Lynn (Robert) Hutton; cherished grandmother of Mark, Jr., Evan, Lacy, Morgan, and Sydney. She was preceded in death by her husband, Norman R. Quering. The family would like to thank the staff of Paramount Senior Living in Bethel Park for the exceptional care Leona received. Visitation will be held on Monday, April 1, 2019, from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. at the JEFFERSON MEMORIAL FUNERAL HOME, INC., 301 Curry Hollow Rd., Pleasant Hills 15236. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, April 2, 2019, at 10 a.m. at St. Germaine Parish, 7003 Baptist Rd., Bethel Park 15102. Condolences may be left at: www.jeffersonmemorial.biz Send condolences post-gazette.com/gb
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MELUCCI SISTER THERESE (REGINA...
MELUCCI SISTER THERESE (REGINA MARIE) CSJ. Age 77, died Saturday, March 30, 2019 in the 59th year of her religious life as a Sister of St. Joseph. The daughter of the late Donato and Michelina Principe Melucci, Sister Therese entered the Congregation from St. Catherine of Siena parish in Pittsburgh. For nearly four decades, Sister Therese was an early childhood educator in the Dioceses of Pittsburgh, Greensburg and Altoona-Johnstown. Her longest teaching ministries were at Our Lady of Victory School in State College, PA (1970-1974), Annunciation in Pittsburgh (1979-1986), and Mount Gallitzin Academy (MGA) in Baden (1974-1979 and 1994-2009). She also ministered as Motherhouse Coordinator from 1986 to 1994. An ever-present volunteer, Sister Therese always stepped up wherever she was needed-at Liturgy, at a fund-raising event, or at the bedside of a sick Sister. Known for her warmth and hospitality, Sister Therese was a model of compassion, generosity and faith not only for the countless children she taught but to all whom she encountered daily with a radiant smile and promise of prayers. During her 50th Jubilee celebration, Sister Therese reflected: One of the most significant ways that I have responded to God's call is through the education of young children. I have been privileged to walk with many children at a tender and impressionable age. She believed that children have a natural attraction to Jesus, and she emulated that closeness to Jesus. To ease the transition for new kindergarten students and their parents, Sister Therese personally visited their homes prior to the MGA school year to build home-school relations. She instilled the I Care rules in young children in hopes of planting seeds of tolerance and love, and she fostered in them a reverence for the beauty of the Baden grounds. It is essential to love and respect the individual differences among us as members of the world community, she wrote in her Jubilee reflection. I see all of us as one with the Earth and, as a result, we are called to use its resources with great care. This is a relationship of union and reconciliation with all of creation.; preceded in death by four sisters; Sister Therese is survived by eight nephews, Fred (Donna) Pollastrini of Sandy, OR, Dan Pollastrini (Bob, deceased) of West Middletown, PA, Larry Pollastrini (Brian) of Pittsburgh, PA, Anthony (Janis) Paterra of Bridgeville, PA, Tad (April) Paterra of Canonsburg, PA, David (Lisa) Paterra of McMurray, PA, Bob (Denise) Paterra of Pittsburgh, PA, Mid (Maria) Paterra of Cheswick, PA; great-nieces and nephews, the Associates and the Sisters of St. Joseph. Friends will be received Monday, April 1 from 1 p.m. to the close of the Prayer Vigil and Tuesday, April 2 from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the MOTHERHOUSE OF THE SISTERS OF ST. JOSEPH. Prayer Vigil will be Monday, April 1 at 6 p.m. at the Motherhouse. Mass of Christian Burial will be offered Tuesday, April 2 at 4 p.m. Burial will follow in the Sisters' Cemetery on the Motherhouse grounds. Donations in the name of Sister Therese may be sent to the Sisters of St. Joseph Memorial Fund, Development Office, 1020 State St., Baden, PA 15005. Send condolences post-gazette.com/gb
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JOHNSON BARBARA A. OF MUNHALL,...
JOHNSON BARBARA A. Of Munhall, on March 25, 2019. Barbara was the daughter of the late Julius and Mary (Kuklinca) Orosz; mother of Joyce Martin Muth and Robert Martin; beloved sister of Mary Jane Jacobs; she is also survived by beloved aunt, Anna Jane Camino; cousins; a niece; a nephew; and two grandchildren. A Memorial Service will be held at Baptist Homes, 489 Castle Shannon Blvd., Pittsburgh, PA 15234. Monday, April 1st at 1:30 p.m. Arrangements are entrusted to SAVOLSKIS-WASIK-GLENN FUNERAL HOME, INC. www.swgfuneralhome.com Send condolences post-gazette.com/gb
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WOLFF JOHN THOMAS AGE 56, OF M...
WOLFF JOHN THOMAS Age 56, of Murrysville, passed away on March 28, 2019; beloved father of Samantha, Danielle Wolff and Ryan Morrison; loving brother of James (Margaret) Wolff, Jacqueline Maromonte, Kenneth Wolff, Robert (Tamara) Wolff, and Sandra (John) DePellegrini; also survived by many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Callista (Pottmeyer) Wolff. John honorably served for five years in the Marine Corps. Following his military service, he began working as a State Trooper retiring after 28 years. He was an avid fisherman, enjoyed hunting, and everything camouflage. Friends will be received Monday from 2-8 p.m. at the JOBE FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATORY, INC. (MONROEVILLE/PLUM CHAPEL) corner of Beatty Rd. and 48 North, Monroeville (412-856-4747). Mass of Christian Burial will be Tuesday at 10 a.m. at Mother of Sorrows Church, with additional viewing at church from 9-9:45 a.m. Interment to follow at the National Cemetery of the Alleghenies. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association, 444 Liberty Ave #1300, Pittsburgh, PA 15222. www.jobefuneralhome.com Send condolences post-gazette.com/gb
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RIBOLDAZZI CAROL L. (SMALL) ON...
RIBOLDAZZI CAROL L. (SMALL) On Thursday, March 28, 2019, Carol L. Riboldazzi, of Bellevue. She was the daughter of the late William and Evelyn Small; wife of the late Lawrence Riboldazzi; and is survived by nieces and nephews and dear friends. There will be no visitation. Memorial service to be held at a later date. Arrangements by LAWRENCE T. MILLER FUNERAL HOME, INC., Bellevue. Send condolences post-gazette.com/gb
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PETROPOULOS ARTEMIS GRIBAS A L...
PETROPOULOS ARTEMIS GRIBAS A loving daughter, sister, wife, mother, and grandmother, 88 years of age, and a longtime Pittsburgh/Morningside, PA resident, died peacefully on March 28, 2019, surrounded by family. Artemis, often fondly remembered as Arta, was born to Constantinos and Constantina Grimbas in the mountain village of Kerasea, Arcadia, Greece, on April 19,1930. She was raised alongside ten beloved siblings. Artemis immigrated to the United States in 1963, after marrying husband Xaralambos (Harry) Petropoulos, from the neighboring village of Vlachokerasia, in Greece on June 5, 1963. Together, they created and maintained a stable, loving homelife in Pittsburgh. Artemis dedicated herself to her family and her church. Her outgoing and caring nature yielded many loyal friendships, cultivated throughout her lifetime. Over the years, she raised three loving sons; her family was always her pride and joy. She was an avid cook, baker, home remodeler, knitter, seamstress, gifted gardener, and restaurateur. Artemis created delicious Greek food and pastries for her family, friends, and her extended community. Her confections and authentic meals always kept family, friends, and eventually her grandchildren, impressed and satisfied. Her baklava, cheeseburgers, and pastitio never failed. Teaching by example, Artemis demonstrated the importance of a love that is both tireless and unconditional. She was more than a devoted parishioner of the Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral in Pittsburgh. She was well-respected for her endless service, including her steadfast attendance at church services; her willingness to volunteer for events, holidays, fundraisers; and her commitment to assist all, both more and less fortunate. Most especially, she was beloved for unending generosity with her time and her talents. Artemis was a tirelessly committed Yia-Yia (grandmother) to her seven grandchildren: Talis, Milo, Maia, Ivan, Asa, Athena, and Christos. Yia-Yia never passed up an opportunity to spend time with them. From rocking newborns, to playground outings, macaronades and ice cream treats, cooking lessons, and the courageous story of her immigration, she shared her love and her culture with all. Artemis was preceded in death by Harry, her devoted husband of 42 years, in 2005. Their love and support for each other was unparalleled. In addition to sharing the responsibilities of raising a family in Pittsburgh's Greek-American community, Harry and Artemis spent many years working together shoulder-to-shoulder -- while operating Seasons, their family restaurant in Homestead, PA. She is survived by her three sons, Panagiotis (Peter) of Washington, DC; Constantinos (Dean) and his wife Jeri of Hollywood, FL; and Giorgos (George) and his wife Judy of Raleigh, NC. Artemis also leaves many adoring nieces and nephews; her godchildren, Maria and Gianni Spanos; and the vast network of friends she collected over the years. Most especially, Artemis leaves to all many lasting and beautiful memories. Friends and family will be received on Thursday, April 4, 2019, at JOHN A. FREYVOGEL SONS, INC., 4900 Centre Avenue at Devonshire Street from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. A Trisagion will be held at 7 p.m. Additional visitation will also be held on Friday, April 5, 2019, at the St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 419 South Dithridge Street from 10 a.m. until the Funeral Liturgy at 11 a.m. In lieu of flowers, and in honor of Artemis's love for her church community, donations in her name may be made to the Saint Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral. Artemis Petropoulos, may your memory be Eternal. For an online guestbook, visit (freyvogelfuneralhome.com) Send condolences post-gazette.com/gb
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RYZHIK KONSTANTIN A HUSBAND, F...
RYZHIK KONSTANTIN A husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, and an engineer who helped build some of the most-traveled roadways and tunnels in Pittsburgh, died peacefully on March 29, after a long illness, at nearly 92. He was born May 1, 1927 in St. Petersburg, Russia to Girsh-Zusya Meyer Ryzhik (father) and Nehama Kalman Pliss (mother), who predeceased him, along with his sister Rachel Ryzhik. For over 69 years, he was devotedly married to Betty (Podolsky) Ryzhik, known as Bella, who recently celebrated her 90th birthday, and who survives him. They met when they were 5 and 6 years old. Having lived through the siege of Leningrad, in which the city's residents were starved, both are Holocaust survivors; Konstantin nearly died as a 14-year-old on a ration of four ounces of food per day. He went on to study construction engineering and worked at federal construction sites, including, at a top-secret location in the Urals, the first nuclear facility in Russia -- the Soviet equivalent of Los Alamos. In 1979, Konstantin emigrated to the United States with his family and began a long and happy life in Squirrel Hill, where he bought and hand-remodeled (and then remodeled, and remodeled again) a home that became the hub of many lively holiday and family gatherings. He was known for dressing up as a dancing Santa, stashing lottery tickets under the dinner plates, and making pancakes and pizza for his grandchildren every Saturday. Working for Green International, he was an engineering inspector during Pittsburgh's light rail construction. Later, he began a long career at Mosites Construction, where he managed major projects including the Coraopolis Bridge, the Turnpike Tunnels and the Pittsburgh Airport. He retired from construction sites, somewhat reluctantly, at age 76, after many entreaties by his colleagues to stay. His work ethic and expertise, his coworkers said, made him a legend in the job. Though he only started speaking English at 52, and sometimes still had language foibles he called his favorite show not MacGyver but MacDiver he nonetheless aced a Dale Carnegie speaking course. Konstantin's heart and pride was in his family, and he is survived by his son Gregory (Anna) Ryzik, of Pittsburgh; his daughter Larisa Mason (Ray Stoner), of Fox Chapel; his grandchildren Melena Ryzik, of Brooklyn, NY; Michael Mason, of Allison Park; Tanya Portny, of Philadelphia; and Katrina Mason-Bentz, of Fox Chapel; along with their spouses Daly Clement, Dr. Ekaterina Yatsuba, and Brian Portny. He doted on his five great-grandsons: Matthew, Daniel and Andrew Mason; Zachary Portny; and Constantine Ryzik Clement, who goes by Asa. Konstantin is also survived by numerous other family members and friends on whom he made an indelible imprint. A man who could fix anything, who was equally at home in front of a sewing machine and a carburetor, Kotya, as his family called him, was known for practical jokes and landing a punchline. He was also an avid hockey fan who spent many nights at the Pittsburgh Arena, cheering on the Penguins with his son. He argued about global politics until the very end, and helped innumerable people in Pittsburgh's Russian immigrant community land on their feet. He made sure his family members knew they were loved, and they hope to carry on with all the fortitude, grace and humor he taught them. Services at RALPH SCHUGAR CHAPEL, INC., 5509 Centre Avenue, Shadyside on Sunday at 11:30 a.m. Visitation one hour prior to services (10:30 - 11:30 a.m.) Interment Beth Shalom Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to: Shadyside Hospital Foundation, 532 S. Aiken Avenue, Suite #302, Pittsburgh, PA 15232, to the nursing staff of Pavilion 3 in memory of Konstantin Ryzhik. www.schugar.com Send condolences post-gazette.com/gb
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MALESKI ANN (KOCZAJA) AGE 90, ...
MALESKI ANN (KOCZAJA) Age 90, of Bridgeville, on March 29, 2019. Beloved wife of the late Frank Maleski; loving mother of Carol DePaul and her husband Paul, and Susie Cherry and her husband Bert; cherished grandmother of Kristy Cherry, Melissa Boyle and her husband Sean, Brian DePaul and Michael DePaul and his wife Janice; great-grandmother of Brock and Avery Boyle and sister of Loretta Schepis. Family and friends received on Sunday 6-8 p.m. and Monday 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at the WARCHOL FUNERAL HOME INC., 3060 Washington Pike, Bridgeville (412.221.3333). A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday at 10 a.m. at Holy Child Parish. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Southbridge EMS, 178 Hickory Grade Road, Bridgeville, PA 15017. View and share condolences at www.warcholfuneralhome.com Send condolences post-gazette.com/gb
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