The Herald, Sharon, PA

Local news Wednesday, April 17, 2002 newsie
These are the top stories in today's print edition. Pick up a copy on the newsstand or contact us for convenient home delivery.

Summaries of the week's news appear in the Sunday edition. These current and past weekly chronologies are online as are day-by-day links to past stories and deaths.



Today's death record

  • Ralph Richard "Dick" Cole, 74, of 1499 Wakefield Drive, Sharpsville.
  • Kenneth V. Coombs, 91, of 647 state Route 7 SE, Brookfield.
  • Linda D. Dunn, 84, Morning Side Residential Home, Paris, Tenn., formerly of Sharon.
  • Frances M. Kovack, 84, of 1769 Brookfield-Hubbard Road, Hubbard.
  • Jeanette F. Martin, 86, of 7086 Warren-Sharon Road, Brookfield.
  • David Matika, 55, of 790 Shady Ave., Sharon.
  • Emerson R. "Emmy" O'Brien, 82, of 91 Strawbridge Ave., Sharon.
  • Shirley J. Oakes, 69, of 330 N. Foster Road, Jackson Township.
  • Mary E. Ross, 87, of St. Paul Homes, West Salem Township, formerly of Sharon, Dutch Lane, Hermitage, and Shenango Park Drive and Maysville Road, both Transfer.
  • Marcella A. Safranic, 67, of 1108 Emerson Ave., Farrell.
  • Helen Sincek, 87, formerly of Hamilton Avenue, Farrell.
  • Lucille Vanek, 81, of 221 Fairmont Drive, Hermitage.


Today's obituaries
(Wait a moment for this page to finish loading before clicking a name link)
Linda D. Dunn
Mary E. Ross
Lucille Vanek
Ann Sember Sewall
Kenneth V. Coombs
David Matika
Nancy Ellen Snyder
  Shirley J. Oakes
Frances M. Kovack
Jeanette F. Martin
Emerson R. 'Emmy' O'Brien
Helen Sincek
Mrs. Norbert (Patricia Anne Duffy) Zeitler
Marcella A. Safranic
Andrew Ratvasky

Linda D. Dunn
Former Sharon woman had worked at WE, played bridge

PARIS, Tenn. -- Linda D. Dunn, Morning Side Residential Home, Paris, formerly of Sharon, died of natural causes at 1 p.m. Friday, April 12, 2002, in Henry County Medical Center. She was 84.

Mrs. Dunn was born Dec. 19, 1917, in Nokmos, Ill., to Antonio Bertelli and Maria Gabrielli Bertelli.

She was a homemaker and worked for 15 years for the former Sharon Transformer Division of Westinghouse Electric Corp. as a coil winder. Mrs. Dunn also worked for Sharon schools.

Mrs. Dunn was a member of Holy Cross Church in Paris.

An avid bridge player, she also played 500 in several card clubs.

Mrs. Dunn also liked to crochet.

Her husband, Mathias J. Dunn, whom she married July 1, 1939, died May 21, 1993.

Surviving are: one daughter, Kathleen and her husband Phillip Ference, Shelbyville, Tenn.; three sisters, Anita Manilla, Farrell; Blanche Blumetti, Boardman, Ohio; and Christina Vendemia, Greenville; a brother, Felice Bertelli, Sharon; a granddaughter, Lisa Marie Ference-Talley; and a grandson, Mathias J. Paul Ference.

Besides her husband, Mrs. Dunn was preceded in death by her parents; two sisters, Pierina Rongo and Mary Jane Morgan; and a brother, Guido Bertelli.

DUNN
    
Mrs. Mathias J. (Linda D.), 84, Morning Side Residential Home, Paris, Tenn., formerly of Sharon.
    Calling hours and service: None by request of the deceased.
    Interment: St. Rose Cemetery, Hermitage.
    Arrangements by STEPHEN J. SHERMAN FUNERAL HOME, 2201 Highland Road, Hermitage.


Mary E. Ross

Homemaker had belonged to St. Joseph's, St. Michael's

A funeral Mass will be held Saturday for Mary E. Ross of St. Paul Homes, West Salem Township, formerly of Sharon, Dutch Lane in Hermitage and Shenango Park Drive and Maysville Road, both Transfer. She passed away at 1:20 p.m. Tuesday, April 16, 2002, in the home. She was 87.

Born Sept. 4, 1914, in Cirtsville, W.Va., she was a daughter of the late Anthony Parsee and Catherina Talerico Parsee.

She attended Farrell schools and moved to the area as a young girl. A homemaker, she was a former member of Church of Notre Dame, Hermitage. She was most recently a member of St. Michael's Church in Greenville.

On Feb. 6, 1932, she married Ralph A. Ross. He preceded her in death July 28, 1985.

Survivors include: a daughter, Mrs. William R. (Patricia A.) Tupper, Transfer; three sons, Ralph Ross Jr., Greenville; Joseph R. Ross, Transfer; and Robert R. Ross, Vernon, Ohio; a stepsister, Rose Ross, Hubbard; nine grandchildren, Ralph Robert Ross, Linda Sheirer, Mary Roch, Steven Ross, Terry Ross, Robert Ross Jr., Benjamin Ross, Timothy Tupper and James Tupper; 18 great-grandchildren and one great-great-granddaughter.

In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by an infant brother; two sisters, Catherine Speroni and Rosa Oliverio; and one grandson, Joseph Ronald Ross Jr.


ROSS

    Mrs. Ralph A. (Mary E.), 87, West Salem Township, formerly of Sharon, Dutch Lane in Hermitage and Shenango Park Drive and Maysville Road, both Transfer.


    Calling hours: 4 to 7 p.m. Friday (4-19-02) in J. BRADLEY MCGONIGLE FUNERAL HOME INC., 1090 E. State St., Sharon. Family and friends may e-mail condolences to McGonigleFuneralHome@infonline.net


    Service: Funeral Mass at noon Saturday (4-20-02) in St. Michael's Church, Greenville, with Rev. Dennis Veltri, parochial vicar, as celebrant.


    Interment: St. Anthony's Cemetery, Hermitage.


Lucille Vanek

Lucille Vanek, 221 Fairmont Drive, Hermitage, died at about 6:07 a.m. today (4-17-02) in her home. She was 81.

Obituary information was incomplete.

VANEK
    Lucille, 81, of 221 Fairmont Drive, Hermitage.
    Arrangements will be announced by J. BRADLEY McGONIGLE FUNERAL HOME Inc., 1090 E. State St., Sharon.


Ann Sember Sewall

WE retiree was active in church, bowling, dog club

A funeral service will be held Thursday for Ann Sember Sewall, 65 Hermitage Hills Blvd., Hermitage. She died at 1:35 p.m. Monday, April 15, 2002, in St. Paul Homes, West Salem Township, after an extended illness. She was 76.

Mrs. Sewall was born Nov. 25, 1925, in Sharon to Michael Sember and Anna Bulina Sember.

She graduated in 1943 from Sharpsville High School and worked for the former Sharon Transformer Division of Westinghouse Electric Corp. as a supervisor from 1943-1983.

As a member since 1952 of First United Methodist Church in Sharpsville, Mrs. Sewall served on many boards, sang in the choir and was a member to the Methodist Women's Society.

She belonged to two bowling leagues, the Retirees League in Reynolds and JYNX League in Hermitage.

Mrs. Sewall also belonged for 10 years to the American Brittany Club, an association for dog owners, and enjoyed participating in dog field trials.

She loved dancing and listening to her husband's country and western group, the Keystone Pioneers.

Her husband, Glenn G. Sewall, whom she married Nov. 7, 1952, died in September 1994.

Surviving are: two stepdaughters, Kathy Sewall, Cranberry Township, Butler County; and Mrs. James (Karen) Bennington, Mercer; a sister, Mary Stahl, Sharpsville; three brothers, Michael and his wife Mary Sember, Warren, Ohio; and George and his wife Betty Sember; and Theodore Sember, all Sharpsville; three grandchildren, Jim A. Bennington, Mercer; Beth Bennington, Pittsburgh; and Mrs. Mark (Carrie L.) Sobieski, Conneaut Lake; and six great-grandchildren.

Besides her husband, Mrs. Sewall was preceded in death by her parents; and two brothers, William and John Sember.

Memorial contributions may be made to a charity of the donor's choice.

SEWALL
    
Mrs. Glenn G. (Ann Sember), 76, of 65 Hermitage Hills Blvd., Hermitage.
    Calling hours: 10 a.m. to time of service Thursday (4-18-02) in First United Methodist Church, Sharpsville. Friends may send condolences by e-mail to www.flynnfuneralhome.com
    Service: Funeral service at 11 a.m. Thursday in the church, with the Rev. Lee Weber, pastor, officiating.
    Entombment: Hillcrest Memorial Park, Hermitage.
    Arrangements by JOHN FLYNN FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY Inc., 2630 E. State St., Hermitage.


Kenneth V. Coombs

Brookfield family business owner was Mason, Elk

Kenneth V. Coombs of 647 state Route 7 SE, Brookfield, died at 11:55 a.m. Monday (4-15-02) in his son's home in Kinsman. He was 91.

Mr. Coombs was born March 5, 1911, in his home in Brookfield, a son of J. Fred and Lela Pearl Seaburn Coombs.

A 1929 alumnus of Brookfield High School, he graduated from the Cleveland School of Art.

Following graduation, Mr. Coombs worked for his father at the family business and subsequently became the owner and operator of Coombs Monument & Granite Co. in Brookfield.

His memberships included Brookfield United Methodist Church; Free and Accepted Masons Jerusalem Lodge 19, Hartford; the Shriners Club; and Benevolent and Protective Order of the Elks Lodge 103, Sharon.

His wife, the former Evelyn R. Gilkey, whom he married March 24, 1934, died Sept. 16, 1996.

Survivors include: one son, Stanley Coombs, Kinsman; one daughter, Mrs. James (Elena) McMahon, Sharon; three grandchildren, Kevin, Kelly and Cailin McMahon; and three great-grandchildren.

Besides his wife, Mr. Coombs was preceded in death by his parents; and his sister, Freda Harshman.

Memorial contributions may be made to Sharon Regional Health System's Hospice Home Care, 490 N. Kerrwood Drive, Suite 204, Hermitage 16148.

COOMBS
    
Kenneth V., 91, of 647 state Route 7 SE, Brookfield.
    Calling hours: None.
    Service: Private funeral service will be held at the convenience of the family.
    Arrangements by MADASZ FUNERAL HOME Inc., 6923 Warren Sharon Road, Brookfield.


David Matika

David Matika, 790 Shady Ave., Sharon, passed away Tuesday evening (4-16-02) in his residence. He was 55.

Obituary information was incomplete.

MATIKA
    
David, 790 Shady Ave., Sharon.
    Calling hours: 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday (4-18-02) in J. BRADLEY McGONIGLE FUNERAL HOME Inc., 1090 E. State St., Sharon, and 9:30 to 10:20 a.m. Friday (4-19-02) in St. Ann Church, 601 Fruit Ave., Farrell. Friends may also e-mail condolences to McGonigle FuneralHome@infonline.net
    Service: Funeral Mass at 10:30 a.m. Friday (4-19-02) in the church with the Rev. Matthew Ruyechan, Order of Friars Minor, as celebrant.
    Burial: St. Ann's Cemetery, Hermitage.

Other death


Nancy Ellen Snyder



SNYDER
    Nancy Ellen, 58, of 11 Ridge Ave., Greenville.
    Calling hours: 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. today (4-17-02) in ANDREW J. VANA FUNERAL HOME, 102 Church St., Hadley.
    Service: Funeral and committal service at 11 a.m. Thursday (4-18-02) in the funeral home.


Shirley J. Oakes

Former Jackson Twp. auditor was involved in farming, fair

Shirley J. Oakes of 330 N. Foster Road, Jackson Township, died at 2:20 p.m. Tuesday (4-16-02) in Woodland Place Inc., Coolspring Township, after a brief illness. She was 69.

She was born Dec. 20, 1932, in Sandy Lake Township to Everett N. "Jack" and Anna Eliza Scott Morris.

She was a 1950 graduate of the former Sandy Lake High School. In her early years, she worked at the Sharon Transformer Division of Westinghouse Electric Corp. for five years.

She served as a Jackson Township auditor for more than 30 years. She was involved in farming and promoting the dairy industry for many years.

Along with her husband, Ralph T. Oakes, whom she married June 19, 1953, they owned and operated the Cass Ridge Farm since 1953. It is now operated by their son, Gary, and granddaughter, Sally Oakes.

She was a member of Mercer County Holstein Club, Pennsylvania Holstein Association. For many years she hosted judging teams from throughout the northeastern United States, sometimes as many as 80 participants, in her home for a homecooked meal during their travels.

She served more than 30 years as secretary of the Dairy Department of the Great Stoneboro Fair. In recent years, she was involved in 4-H with her family and friends and you were always welcome in her home.

She was a member of Jackson Center Presbyterian Church.

She is survived by her husband; two sons, Gary T. Oakes, Jackson Center; and Dale L. Oakes and his wife, Kathy, Mercer; one sister, Mrs. Robert L. (Betty) Lewis, Stoneboro; and three granddaughters, April and Leah, daughters of Dale; and Sally, daughter of Gary.

She was preceded in death by her parents; one brother, Robert Morris; and three sisters, Margery Lackey, Bernzella Clark and Virginia Yeager.

OAKES
    
Mrs. Ralph T. (Shirley J.), 69, of 330 N. Foster Road, Jackson Township.
    Calling hours: 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. Thursday (4-18-02) in SCOTT A. BLACK FUNERAL HOME, 99 Franklin St., Stoneboro.
    Service: Funeral service at 11 a.m. Friday (4-19-02) in the funeral home with the Rev. Robert B. McCrumb, family friend and pastor of Mars (Pa.) Presbyterian Church, officiating.
    Interment and Committal Service: Pleasant Hill Cemetery, Jackson Township.


Frances M. Kovack

Homemaker had belonged to churches, card club

Frances M. Kovack of 1769 Brookfield Hubbard Road, Hubbard, died at 9:15 a.m. Tuesday (4-16-02) in her home. She was 84.

Mrs. Kovack was born April 6, 1918, in Pittsburgh, a daughter of Felix J. and Frances S. Karlik Svarney.

A homemaker her entire life, her memberships included St. Patrick's Church in Hubbard. As a former member of St. Bernadette's Church in Masury, she had been a past president of the Altar and Rosary Society for 15 years; and was a former Confraternity of Christian Doctrine Sunday school teacher for 12 years with third grade students.

Mrs. Kovack was also a member for more than 50 years of the "Hill Toppers" Card Club in Masury.

In her spare time, she enjoyed crocheting, ceramics and cooking.

Her husband, Joseph "Cuppy" Kovack, whom she married Jan. 8, 1938, died July 11, 1974.

Survivors include: one son, Joseph A. Kovack, Hubbard; seven daughters, Mrs. Robert (Beverly) Leon, Phoenix; Mrs. John (Sandra) O'Brien, Masury; Mrs. Joseph (Geraldine) Hayhurst, Glendale, Ariz.; Mrs. Grant (Frances) Nier, New Wilmington; Cynthia Kovack-Smith, wife of Scott Smith, Phoenix; Mrs. Merle (Christina) Gish, Mercer; and Mrs. Ted (Emily) Meyer, West Middlesex; one brother, Rudolph Svarney, Sharon; two sisters, Genevieve Haywood, Hubbard; and Mildred Ward, Brookfield; 18 grandchildren; and 20 great-grandchildren.

Besides her husband, Mrs. Kovack was preceded in death by her parents; and two brothers, William and Joseph Svarney.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude's Children's Hospital. Donors may call (800) 822-6344.

KOVACK
    
Mrs. Joseph "Cuppy" (Frances M.), 84, of 1769 Brookfield-Hubbard Road, Hubbard.
    Calling hours: None.
    Service: Memorial Mass at 10 a.m. May 2, 2002, in St. Patrick's Church, Hubbard, with the Rev. Timothy O'Neill, pastor, as celebrant.
    Arrangements by MADASZ FUNERAL HOME Inc., 6923 Warren Sharon Road, Brookfield.


Jeanette F. Martin

Retired Whitmer-Smith office clerk lived in Brookfield

Jeanette F. Martin of 7086 Warren Sharon Road, Brookfield, died at 9:50 p.m. Monday (4-15-02) in the home of her daughter. She was 86.

Mrs. Martin was born Oct. 27, 1915, in Canton, Ohio, a daughter of Harry and Elizabeth Girt Furney.

She was a 1935 graduate of Sharon High School and an alumna of the former Shenango School of Business, Sharon.

Mrs. Martin retired in 1988 from the former Whitmer-Smith Clothing Store in downtown Sharon, where she had been an office clerk for 20 years.

She was a member of Brookfield United Methodist Church. Her hobbies included camping and reading.

Her husband, William H. Martin, to whom she was married for 29 years, died in 1965.

Survivors include: her daughters, Beth Leyshon, Wheatland; Nancy Lee Martin, Brookfield; and Lynne Bowser, wife of Rich Bowser, also Brookfield; eight grandchildren, Cheryl Beckman, Laurie Smith, Pamela McCarthy, Kim Bowser, Patrick Leyshon, Steve Leyshon, Rick Bowser and Bill Bowser; 10 great-grandchildren; two stepgreat-grandsons; and two great-great-granddaughters.

Besides her husband, Mrs. Martin was preceded in death by her parents; a brother, Ray Furney; and two sisters, Thelma Stiver and Margaret Haun.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Memorial Fund of Brookfield United Methodist Church, Box 22, Brookfield 44403; or Hospice of the Valley, 5190 Market St., Youngstown 44512.

MARTIN
    
Mrs. William H. (Jeanette F.), 86, of 7086 Warren Sharon Road, Brookfield.
    Calling hours: 2 to 5 p.m. Thursday (4-18-02) and 1 p.m. to time of service Friday (4-19-02) in MADASZ FUNERAL HOME Inc., 6923 Warren Sharon Road, Brookfield.
    Service: Funeral service at 2 p.m. Friday in the funeral home, with the Rev. Geoffrey Oswald, pastor of Brookfield United Methodist Church, officiating.
    Burial: Brookfield Township Cemetery.


Emerson R. 'Emmy' O'Brien

Carpatho-Russian Orthodox member was grocer, war vet

Emerson R. "Emmy" O'Brien, 91 Strawbridge Ave., Sharon, died at 10 a.m. Tuesday, April 16, 2002, in his home. He was 82.

Mr. O'Brien was born Oct. 31, 1919, in New Castle to John V. O'Brien and Bessie M. Kimmel O'Brien.

A retired grocer, he owned grocery stores on both Ohio Street and Sterling Avenue in Sharon.

Mr. O'Brien was a member of St. John's Carpatho-Russian Orthodox Church, Sharon.

He was a veteran of the Army, serving in Africa and Europe during World War II.

Mr. O'Brien was a member of the American Carpatho-Russian Citizens and Social Club in Sharon.

He enjoyed playing Euchre.

Surviving are: his wife, Mary Ursta O'Brien, whom he married May 10, 1947, Sharpsville; three daughters, Patricia Tomczak and Mary Clarke, both Sharpsville; and Shelia O'Brien, Sharon; a son, Robert O'Brien, Brookfield; eight grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a grandson, James R. O'Brien; and two sisters, Wanda Chirila and Donna Rickert.

Memorial contributions may be made to Family Hospice and Palliative Care, Hermitage 16148.

O'BRIEN
    
Emerson R. "Emmy," 82, of 91 Strawbridge Ave., Sharon.
    Calling hours: 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday (4-18-02) in LEIPHEIMER-TOMON FUNERAL HOME, 1246 Roemer Blvd., Farrell.
    Service: Funeral service at 11 a.m. Friday (4-19-02) in the funeral home, with the Rev. Michael R. Zak, administrator of Camp Nazareth, officiating.
    Interment: Oakwood Cemetery, Hermitage.


Helen Sincek

Helen Sincek, formerly of Hamilton Avenue, Farrell, died at 8:25 p.m. Tuesday (4-16-02) in the hospital of Sharon Regional Health System. She was 87.

Obituary information was incomplete.

SINCEK
    Helen, 87, formerly of Hamilton Avenue, Farrell.
    Arrangements will be announced by LEIPHEIMER-TOMON FUNERAL HOME, 1246 Roemer Blvd., Farrell.


Mrs. Norbert (Patricia Anne Duffy) Zeitler

St. Joe's church member was volunteer at Prince of Peace

A funeral Mass will be held Saturday for Patricia Anne Duffy Zeitler, 356 Ellsworth St., Sharon. She passed away at 11:45 a.m. Monday, April 15, 2002, in her daughter Margaret's home in Fairfield, Conn., after an extended illness. She was 79.

Mrs. Zeitler was born May 9, 1922, in Sharon to John and Helen Walsh Duffy.

She attended Sacred Heart School in Sharon and was a 1940 alumna of Sharon High School. Mrs. Zeitler graduated summa cum laude from Mercyhurst College in Erie in 1944 and was formerly employed at the former Sharon Store.

She married Norbert Raymond "Zeke" Zeitler on May 25, 1946, in Sharon, and was a devoted wife and mother.

Patricia, a faithful Catholic, was a member of St. Joseph's Church in Sharon, although she enjoyed attending services at numerous parishes in the valley. She volunteered at the Prince of Peace Center in Farrell and was a member of the Newman Circle, a Catholic women's study group.

Mrs. Zeitler was committed to rights for the unborn.

She enjoyed spending time with her children, nieces, nephews and their families.

Patricia's husband died in 1984. She was also predeceased by a granddaughter, Elizabeth Miyoko Zeitler, who died in 1991; four brothers, James, Joseph, Robert and John Duffy; and two sisters, Sarah Duffy and Frances Kopetsky.

Patricia is survived by: seven sons, William Zeitler and his wife Nancy, New Canaan, Conn.; John Zeitler and his wife Ann, Cuba, N.Y.; James Zeitler and his wife Kathleen Joint, Roslindale, Mass.; Daniel Zeitler and his wife Norene, Upper Arlington, Ohio; Joseph Zeitler and his wife Ruth, Columbus, Ohio; Robert Zeitler and his wife Caty, Manley Hot Springs, Alaska; and Edward Zeitler and his wife Cindy, Two Rivers, Alaska; and four daughters, Mary Lieberman and her husband Michael, Bridgewater, N.J.; Helen Branton, Chesterfield, N.J; Margaret Chimenti and her husband Thomas, Fairfield, Conn.; and Patricia Lizotte and her husband Raymond, West Roxbury, Mass.

Mrs. Zeitler also leaves: a sister, Mrs. Harvey (Mary) Gaines, Shawnee Mission, Kansas; a brother, Daniel H. Duffy, Sharon; and 16 grandchildren, Megan, John, Christine, Katherine, William, Daniel and Mary Zeitler; Sarah and Janet Lieberman; Richard, Joseph and Michael Branton; Patrick and Mary Chimenti; and Theresa and James Lizotte.

Memorial contributions may be made to Prince of Peace Center, 502 Darr Ave., Box 89, Farrell 16121.

ZEITLER
    
Mrs. Norbert Raymond "Zeke" (Patricia Anne Duffy), 79, of 356 Ellsworth St., Sharon.
    Calling hours: 3 to 5 and 7 to 9 p.m. Friday (4-19-02) in J. BRADLEY McGONIGLE FUNERAL HOME Inc., 1090 E. State St., Sharon. Friends may also e-mail condolences to McGonigleFuneralHome@infonline.net
    Service: Funeral Mass at 10 a.m. Saturday (4-20-02) in St. Joseph's Church, Sharon, with the Rev. Matthew Ruyechan Order of Friars Minor, pastor of St. Anthony's Church, Sharon, as celebrant.
    Interment: St. Mary's Cemetery, Hermitage.


Marcella A. Safranic

Farrell homemaker belonged to St. Adalbert Church

Marcella A. Safranic, 1108 Emerson Ave., Farrell, died April 16, 2002, in her home after an extended illness. She was 67.

Mrs. Safranic was born March 8, 1935, in Canonsburg, Pa., to Lawrence and Marcella Chess Brower.

She attended Farrell Area Schools.

Mrs. Safranic was a homemaker and member of St. Adalbert Church, Farrell.

Surviving are: her husband, Tom Safranic Jr., whom she married June 15, 1950; one son, Thomas J. Safranic, Sharon; one sister, Dolores Brower, Farrell; five grandchildren, Lawrence and Michelle Safranic, Farrell; Tom Safranic III, Lisa Beers and Jacqueline Safranic, all Sharon; and Jeremy Safranic, Troy, Ohio; and two great grandchildren, Savanna Beers, Sharon; and Ryan Safranic, Farrell.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and one son, Lawrence J. Safranic.

SAFRANIC
    
Mrs. Tom (Marcella A.) Jr., 67, of 1108 Emerson Ave., Farrell.
    Calling hours: 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday (4-18-02) in JOHN A. PALISIN FUNERAL HOME, 86 Maple Drive, Hermitage.
    Service: Funeral service, at time to be announced, Friday (4-19-02) in the funeral home with the Rev. John R. Boeckman, pastor of St. Adalbert Church, Farrell, officiating.
    Arrangements by THOMAS S. PODLEYON FUNERAL SERVICE, 86 Maple Drive, Hermitage.


Andrew Ratvasky

WE retiree, WWII vet liked fishing, hunting, baseball

A funeral service will be held Thursday for Andrew Ratvasky, 1179 Idaho St. Extension, Sharon. He died at 6:25 p.m. Monday (4-15-02) in UPMC Horizon, Farrell, following an extended illness. He was 81.

Mr. Ratvasky was born Nov. 3, 1920, in Isabella, Pa., to Andrew and Anna Braho Ratvasky.

He retired after 42 years from the former Sharon Transformer Division of Westinghouse Electric Corp., where he was an inside driver.

Mr. Ratvasky was a member of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in Hermitage; and Westinghouse Clerks Association.

He also belonged to New Castle Umpires Association; and several Pulaski and New Castle baseball teams.

An Army Air Force veteran, Mr. Ratvasky achieved a rank of corporal and served in India, Burma and Central Burma and was awarded the Good Conduct Medal, American Campaign Medal, Asiatic Pacific Campaign Medal with two Bronze Stars; and the World War II Victory Medal.

He was an avid sportsman and loved fishing, hunting and being outdoors.

Surviving are: his wife, the former Pauline Royak, whom he married Aug. 13, 1948, at home; a daughter, Mrs. Nick (Andrea) Kucik, Farrell; a son, Andrew Michael Ratvasky, Sharpsville; three sisters, Mildred Thomas, Ann Sagenich and Helen Gargasz; two brothers, George R. Ratvasky, New Wilmington; and Tom R. Ratvasky, New Castle; two grandchildren, Melissa Cannone and Brian Kucik; and two great-grandchildren, Mario and Michael Cannone.

Mr. Ratvasky was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Mary; and a brother, John Ratvasky, who was killed in action during World War II.

Memorial contributions may be made to Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, 3325 Morefield Road, Hermitage 16148; or to a charity of the donor's choice.

RATVASKY
    
Andrew, 81, of 1179 Idaho St. Extension, Sharon.
    Calling hours: 5 to 8 p.m. today (4-17-02) and 9 to 10 a.m. Thursday (4-18-02) in JOHN A. PALISIN FUNERAL HOME, 86 Maple Drive, Hermitage.
    Service: Funeral service at 10:30 a.m. Thursday in Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, Hermitage, with the Rev. Nancie Reeves, pastor, officiating.
    Burial: Holy Trinity Lutheran Cemetery, Hermitage, with full military honors.

Ralph Richard "Dick" Cole, 1499 Wakefield Drive, Sharpsville, died at 4:57 p.m. Tuesday (4-16-02) in his home. He was 74.

Mr. Cole was born Nov. 27, 1927, in Andover, Ohio, to Walter E. Cole and Helen Mason Cole.

An alumnus of Andover High School Class of 1945, he retired in June of 2000 as vice president of B.E.Z. Equipment Co., Austintown, Ohio.

Mr. Cole was a member of Grace in the Wilderness Fellowship Church in West Middlesex.

He was an Army Air Force veteran, having served from Feb. 18, 1946, to Jan. 25, 1949, achieving a rank of corporal. For his service, Mr. Cole earned a World War II Victory Medal.

Surviving are: his wife, the former Marian Hoover, whom he married April 15, 1949, at home; a daughter, Mrs. David (Jennifer) Perrine, Fredonia; two sons, Mark Cole and his wife Sherry, Canfield, Ohio; and Loren Cole and his wife Maureen, Austintown; and six grandchildren, Christopher Cole, Jenna Cole, Julie Cole, Stephanie Cole, Shane Cole and Luke Perrine.

Mr. Cole was preceded in death by his parents; and two brothers, Pete Cole and Steve Cole.

Memorial contributions may be made to Grace in the Wilderness Fellowship Church, 2502 Sharon-West Middlesex Road, West Middlesex 16159.

COLE
    
Ralph Richard "Dick," 74, of 1499 Wakefield Drive, Sharpsville.
    Calling hours: None.
    Service: Memorial service at 10 a.m. Saturday (4-20-02) in Grace in the Wilderness Fellowship Church, West Middlesex, with the Rev. Joseph Marzano, pastor, officiating.
    Arrangements by JOHN A. PALISIN FUNERAL HOME, 86 Maple Drive, Hermitage.


PREVIOUS DEATHS
Look in past days' obituary files to find the full obituaries


GLANCY
    
Mrs. Earl (Isabelle Hazel), 88, of 4175 Brockway Sharon Road, Sharon, formerly of 8165 Lorain St., Masury, and Hungry Horse, Mont.
    Obituary was published 4-16-02
    Calling hours: 7 to 9 p.m. Thursday (4-18-02) in J. BRADLEY McGONIGLE FUNERAL HOME Inc., 1090 E. State St., Sharon. Friends may also e-mail condolences to McGonigleFuneralHome@infonline.net
    Service: Funeral service at noon Friday (4-19-02) in the funeral home chapel.
    Interment: Brookfield Township Cemetery.
HUGHES
    
Frederick P., 74, Farrell Terrace, Farrell.
    Obituary was published 4-16-02
    Calling hours: 5 to 9 p.m. today (4-17-02) in J. BRADLEY McGONIGLE FUNERAL HOME Inc., 1090 E. State St., Sharon. Friends may also e-mail condolences to McGonigleFuneralHome@infonline.net
    Service: Funeral Mass at 11 a.m. Thursday (4-18-02) in St. Anthony's Church, Sharon, with the Rev. Matthew Ruyechan, Order of Friars Minor, pastor, as celebrant.
    Interment: Our Lady of Mount Carmel Cemetery, Hermitage.
IMBRIE
    
Betty Riddle, 83, Phoenix, formerly of Sharpsville.
    Obituary was published 12-11-01
    Service: Family and friends are invited to attend a memorial service at 11 a.m. Saturday (4-20-02) in First United Methodist Church, Sharpsville, with the Rev. Lee Weber, pastor, officiating.
KUNES
    
James J. Jr., 77, of 30870 County Road 356, Buena Vista, Colo., formerly of Hermitage.
    Obituary was published 4-16-02
    Calling hours: 7 to 9 p.m. today (4-17-02) in SAMPLE-O'DONNELL FUNERAL HOME Inc., East State Street at North Oakland Avenue, Sharon; member by invitation, Selected Independent Funeral Homes and the International Order of the Golden Rule. Friends may send condolences by e-mail to Sample@infonline.net
    Service: Funeral service at 11 a.m. Thursday (4-18-02) in the funeral home with the Rev. G.H. Trumbo, pastor of Hickory United Methodist Church, Hermitage, officiating.
    Burial: Hillcrest Memorial Park, Hermitage.

MURRELL
    
Robert M. "Bob," 84, of 801 Lillian Drive, Hermitage.
    Obituary was published 4-16-02
    Calling hours: 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday (4-18-02) in J. BRADLEY MCGONIGLE FUNERAL HOME, INC., 1090 E. State St., Sharon. Friends and family may e-mail condolences to McGonigleFuneralHome@infonline.net
    Service: Funeral Mass at 10 a.m. Friday (4-19-02) in Church of Notre Dame, Hermitage, with the Rev. William G. Rice, parochial vicar, as celebrant.
    Entombment: St. Rose Cemetery, Hermitage, with full military honors by the Sharon Honor Guard.


PELLES
    
Michael "Mick," 52, of 1185 S. Keel Ridge Road, Hermitage.
    Obituary was published 4-16-02
    Calling hours: 7 to 9 p.m. today (4-17-02) in W. WAYNE CUNNINGHAM FUNERAL HOME, 3126 Main St., West Middlesex.
    Service: Funeral and committal service at 11 a.m. Thursday (4-18-02) in the funeral home, with the Rev. James Wigley, retired minister, officiating.
    Burial: Unity Cemetery, Lackawannock Township.


SIWIECKI
    
Mrs. Karol (Mary), 97, Hermitage.
    Obituary was published 4-16-02
    Calling hours: 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. today (4-17-02) in STEPHEN J. SHERMAN FUNERAL HOME, 2201 Highland Road, Hermitage. Special services include Rosary, 1:30 p.m.; Chaplet, 1:45 p.m.; and Parastas, 2 p.m.
    Service: Divine Liturgy at 10 a.m. Thursday (4-18-02) in St. Michael's Byzantine Catholic Church, Hermitage, with the Rev. Frank Firko, pastor, as celebrant. Panachida at 9:15 a.m. in the funeral home.
    Interment: St. Michael's Byzantine Catholic Cemetery, Hermitage.
WHITE
    
Frank Jacob, 79, of 1104 Negley St., Farrell.
    Obituary was published 4-16-02
    Calling hours: 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. today (4-17-02) in J. BRADLEY McGONIGLE FUNERAL HOME Inc., 1090 E. State St., Sharon. Rosary will be celebrated at 8:45 p.m. Wednesday (4-17-02) in the funeral home. Friends may also e-mail condolences to McGonigleFuneralHome@infonline.net
    Service: Funeral Mass at 10 a.m. Thursday (4-18-02) in Our Lady of Fatima Church, 601 Roemer Blvd., Farrell, with the Rev. Donald E. Berdis, pastor, as celebrant. A brief prayer service will be held at 9:15 a.m. in the funeral home before leaving for church.
    Interment: St. Anthony's Cemetery, Farrell, with full military honors provided by the honor guard of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5286, Farrell.



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