Mantini Funeral Home, Inc., 701 6th Avenue, Ford City, PA (2025)

09/19/2025

Our condolences to the family of Rita C. “Chris” Hileman who passed away on Thursday, September 18, 2025.

Rita C. “Chris” (Balitski) Hileman, 69, of Apollo passed away peacefully in her home with her family by her side on Thursday, September 18,2025.

Born March 22,1956 in Indiana, Pa., she was the daughter of the late Walter and Verna (Watral) Balitski.

Chris was a customer service representative for US Airways for 26 years. She enjoyed dinners, lunches, and outings with her friends, the Steelers games, but was particularly devoted to her family. She was a member of St. James Roman Catholic Church in Apollo and her faith was very important to her. She also enjoyed and was a member of the pierogi making club at St. Mary’s Ukrainian Church in Ford City.

In addition to her parents, Chris was preceded in death by her stepmother Rose Balitski and brother Eugene Balitski.

She is survived by her beloved husband of 45+ years Milo “Pete” Hileman; daughters Kate (Christopher) Gavin of Irwin and Allison (Travis) Kreashko of Pittsburgh; grandchildren Bennett and Ava Gavin, and Mila and Fiona Kreashko; siblings Cecelia Neufeld, Joseph Balitski, James Balitski, and Mary Watson; many cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family and great friends.

Family will receive friends on Thursday, September 25,2025 from 2-4 and 6 until time of Blessing Service at 8 P.M. in the Mantini Funeral Home, Inc., 701 Sixth Avenue, Ford City.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in honor to Orphans of the Storm, 11878 PA-85, Kittanning, PA 16201

09/15/2025

Our condolences to the family of Andrew V. Yurga, who passed away on Saturday, September 13,2025.

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Andrew V. Yurga, 83, of Marienville, formerly of Ford City, who went to be with the Lord on Saturday, September 13,2025, peacefully, at QLS Sarver following a long illness.

Born October 8,1941 in Leechburg, he was the son of Andy and Betty (Shilling) Yurga. He spent part of his childhood in Ford City, and some time in Niles, OH where he created lasting memories with his siblings.

Andy served his country proudly in the US Army, stationed in Germany, and remained a man of strength and service throughout his life. He was an avid outdoorsman, enjoying hunting and fishing, camping, but found fishing with his brothers the most enjoyable. Andy also found joy is solving crossword puzzles and engaging in card games with his family, although he never enjoyed losing.

He was a devoted partner, father, grandfather, brother and friend.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by infant daughter Lisa Yurga; son Mark Yurga; siblings Kenny and Larry Yurga and Sally Szymanski.

Andy is survived by partner Margie Kimmel of Marienville; children Andrew “Robbie” (Sarah) Yurga of New Kensington, Missy (Tommy) Janczura of Ford City, Debby (Jerry) Beck of Kittanning, Treasa Bogaloski of Ford City and Kevin Kimmel of Cuyahoga Falls, OH; grandchildren, Amber, Abby, Lucy, Riley, Jade, Mia, Tanner, Cynthia, Roy, Joey, Jimmy, Chrissy, Jerry and Kimmie; thirteen great-grandchildren; brother Dale Yurga of Niles,OH; sister Jane Wetzel of Ford Cliff; sister-in-law Bonnie Yurga of Leechburg; numerous extended family members, and many friends.

Andy’s life was filled with love, laughter, and family. He will be remembered for his unwavering spirit and affection for those he held dear.

Per Andy’s wishes, all services were private and entrusted to Mantini Funeral Home, Inc., Ford City.

The family would like to thank the staff of QLS of Sarver for the wonderful care Andy received there.

09/10/2025

Our condolences to the family of Michael W. Nimerosky who passed away on September 10,2025 in his home.

Michael W. Nimerosky, 55, of Ford City passed away peacefully at his home in the early morning of Wednesday, September 10,2025 and we are certain he was greeted by his beloved Dog “Baby” and they crossed the Rainbow Bridge together.Mike, “Nimer” was born November 20,1969, he was the son of Robert and Linda Nimerosky.Nimer lived a quiet life rooted in the things that mattered most to him - hard work, the outdoors and the animals that he loved. He found joy in the simple things, a day at camp, taking his dogs Chloe and Rosie for a ride, or the complete satisfaction of a job well done. Nimer shared 25 years with his best friend and ﬁancé Diane Luketic. The love they shared, their memories created a lasting impression to all.!He Held many diﬀerent jobs throughout his lifetime, but his favorites included working in the gas patch and later working with his buddies at Bittner Rooﬁng. You could ﬁnd Nimer at camp working on the next project, hunting at the Rupert Farm, or at home with Diane and the dogs.Nimer was a longtime member of the Ford Cliﬀ Fire Department, where he served for over 25 years. During that time he held the titles of Trustee and Steward. The highlight of his time with the department was the Children’s Christmas party where you could ﬁnd him next to Santa handing out gold coins to all of the children. He was also a member of the Moose, Kittanning Eagles, Men’s Club, VFW Post 4843 and the American Legion, where he had many friends who will miss him.Nimer is survived by his loving ﬁancé Diane Luketic, who tenderly cared for him in his ﬁnal days; children Jennifer (Pastor Joshua) Webb; James (Brittany) Luketic; granddaughter Cypress Webb ( who was instrumental in the care of Nimer and her compassion and care was paramount in his ﬁnal weeks); parents Bob and Linda Nimerosky; sister Marcey (Mike) Blodgett; brother Matthew Nimerosky; Josey and Abby; many extended family members, and a host of friends far and wide. He also was surrounded by the love and loyalty of his dogs, Chloe, Rosie, Snowy, Annie, Mindy and the kittens. Special thanks to Dr. Karla McCann and staﬀ from Ford City Family Practice and Ford City Ambulance. In lieu of ﬂowers, donations may be made to the Orphans of the Storm, where all of his beloved animals were adopted from. Visitation will be held on Friday, September 12,2025 from 2-4 and 6-8 PM in the Mantini Funeral Home, Inc., 701 Sixth Avenue, Ford City. Mass of Christian burial will be conducted on Saturday, September 13,2025 at 10 AM in Christ, Prince of Peace Catholic Church, Ford City with the Very Reverend Eric Dinga as oﬃciant. Burial private

09/09/2025

Our condolences to the family of William “Scott” Edwards who passed away on Monday, September 8,2025.

William “Scott” Edwards, 60, passed away peacefully at UPMC Jameson on the morning of September 8,2025.

Scott was born on May 30,1965 in Ford City, Pennsylvania, the son of the late William “Bill” and Dianne Edwards.

Scott shared 23 years of loving marriage with Amy Edwards, whom he married on May 24,2002. They created many memories held dear to Amy’s heart and built a wonderful family.

Scott was a devoted employee of PNC Bank, where he spent time as a software engineer and cyber security specialist who cared deeply for his craft.

Scott loved nothing more than spending quality time with his family and friends, with whom he was blessed in abundance. He will be remembered for his love of football, softball, cooking, fishing, and his everlasting devotion to his loved ones. Scott was a man of God, and worshipped the Lord faithfully – a value he passed on to his children. There was no length that Scott would not go for his family, and his fondest memories were spent sending his youngest daughter Elaina off to the University of Pittsburgh this fall, coaching his daughter Mia in softball, and fishing with his grandsons Jace and Jaxon. Scott’s unconditional love for his family was seen daily in everything that he did, and he made it a priority to be present during every special moment in his loved one’s lives. His friendly smile, kind demeanor, quick wit and never-ending support will be dearly missed by all those who knew and loved him.

Scott is survived by his cherished wife, Amy Edwards, his daughters, Elaina, Mia, and Gabrielle Edwards; his grandsons, Jace Edwards and Jaxon Edwards-Hudak; sister Leslie (Edward) Cutts; many nieces, nephews, and a voluminous count of friends.

Scott was preceded in death by his parents William and Dianne (Penn) Edwards.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, September 10,2025 from 5-8 PM in the Mantini Funeral Home, Inc., 701 Sixth Avenue, Ford City.

Funeral service will be conducted on Thursday, September 11,2025 in the funeral home at 11 AM with Pastor Valerie Wimms as officiant. Burial to follow in Ford City Cemetery.

08/26/2025

Our condolences to the family of Bernard “Bernie” Denardo who passed away on Monday, August 25,2025 in Pittsburgh.

Bernard E. “Bernie” Denardo, 92, of Ford City passed away peacefully with family by his side on Monday, August 25,2025 in Allegheny General Hospital, Pittsburgh.

Born April 28,1933 in East Franklin, he was the son of the late Guy and Margaret (Lemmon) Denardo.

Bernie was a lifelong resident of the Ford City area. He proudly served his country during the Korean War in the U.S. Navy. He worked as a crane operator for Allegheny Ludlum and Pullman Standard, among others. Later, he also worked for the Belmont Complex as a Zamboni driver prior to retiring. Bernie attended Kittanning Methodist Church with his wife for many years.

Bernie enjoyed hunting and fishing, playing the lottery, signing “the books” (in his best slippers no less), game shows, watching the Steelers and Pirates play, and watching The Three Stooges on tv. He was a member of the C.U. Club, Kittanning Eagles, VFW Ford City #4843, American Legion in Cowansville and the Men’s Club of Kittanning (holding the number 1 in both the Eagles and Men’s Clubs). Most of all he loved his cherished wife and beloved family.

In addition to his parents, Bernie was preceded in death by his granddaughter Cheyenne; great grandson Daniel; and brothers, Gary, Leonard, George, and Paul Denardo.

He is survived by his wife Patricia (Walters) Denardo; children Charlene Shaffer, Katherine (Greg) Herbst, and Bernie (Anita) Denardo, Jr., all of Ford City; grandchildren Brandi ( Michael Walls),Jennifer (Christopher), Amber, Christopher (Michele), Derek (fiancé Tori), Nicole (Jake); great-grandchildren Luke, Braelynn, Marcellous, Anna, Logan, Parker and Amarah; brothers Kenneth (Charlene) Denardo of VA, Howard (Linda) Denardo of Ford City, and Rodney (Melissa) also of Ford City; sisters Katherine “Kay” (the late Percy) Fiscus of Kittanning, Diane (Jim) Pitkavish of TX, Gloria (Don) Harkleroad of Tarrtown, Janine (Ed) Presley, also of Tarrtown, Lorraine Simicsak of Indiana, PA, and Vickie (Bill) Warner of Garretts Run; a host of extended family and many friends.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, August 28,2025 from 2-4 and 6-8 PM in the Mantini Funeral Home, Inc., 701 Sixth Avenue, Ford City.

Additional visitation will be held on Saturday, August 30,2025 from 10 AM until time of service at 11 AM in the funeral home with his grandson Pastor Jake Babinsack as officiant and Pastor Jeremy Andrews as concelebrant. Interment in Lawn Haven Burial Estates will follow with Military Honors

08/22/2025

Our condolences to the family of Eva E. Jack who passed away on Tuesday August 19,2025.

Eva E. Jack, 80, of Ford City, passed away in her home on Tuesday, Aug. 19, 2025, with family by her side.
Born Oct. 8, 1944, in Kittanning, she was the daughter of the late Charles and Irene (Canaan) Hawkins.
She was a lifelong resident of the Ford City area, a homemaker and a long-time member of Christ, Prince of Peace Catholic Church. Her faith and her family filled her life with perfect fullness.
In addition to her parents, Eva was preceded in death by her husband, Kenneth Jack; sister-in-law, Kathy Hawkins, and brother-in-law, George Eddy.
She is survived by son, Douglas (Tracy) Jack, of Cadogan; daughter, Dana (Bill Smolik) Jack, of Ford City; grandchildren: Tyler (Sarah), Jesse, Kirsten, Corissa (Sam) and Cody; great-grandchildren: Cooper, Aspyn, Elias and Sophia; brothers: Jim (Roxanne) Hawkins, John (Frances) Hawkins and Leo Hawkins; sisters, Mary Eddy and Ann (Jack) Rhine; nieces, nephews and extended family.
To honor her wishes, all services were private and entrusted to Mantini Funeral Home, Inc., Ford City

08/17/2025

Our sincere condolences to the family of John “Kevin” Pepper, who passed away on Sunday, August 17,2025.

John “Kevin” Pepper, 73, of Ford City passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 17,2025 after an unexpected illness in Allegheny General Hospital, Pittsburgh.

Born October 31, 1951 in Pittsburgh, he was the son of the late James and Genevieve (Glenn) Pepper.

Kevin was a lifelong Ford City resident, save for his college years. He was a proud graduate of Villanova University having earned a Bachelor’s degree. He was a professional tax preparer for many in his hometown, and also owned and operated Shamrock Electric as an electrician. He was a previous member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Ford City where his faith and his education were established as cornerstones to his life.

Kevin was a social member of the Polish Falcons, and VFW, both in Ford City. He enjoyed completing The NY Times Sunday crossword puzzle( in pen),watching Jeopardy, and being the most sought after team member playing Trivial Pursuit. His intelligence and bright mind was well-known. He developed a passion and love for cooking for others, being well known for his wedding soup, the famous Kevin’s tacos, and his sacred homemade pizzas. Many family gatherings centered around his “soup-offs” held often and feeding many. His Irish heritage could be found not only in his stubbornness but also in his personal favorite holiday, St. Patrick’s Day.

His entire family was important to him, and he made many cherished memories.

In addition to his parents, Kevin was preceded in death by siblings Eileen Iskandar, Betty An Laidlaw, Jane Yurga, James Pepper, Michael Pepper, and his cherished godmother General Superior Mother of the Vatican in Rome, Sister Mary Michael Glenn.

Kevin is survived by daughters, Shawna (Jon) Pepper Simcic of FL and Caitlin (Jon) Gerschman of OH; grandchildren, Olivia, Cameron, Aiden, and Elena; sisters Patricia “Patsy” ( the late Henry) Shevchuk of Cadogan, Margaret “ Lala”( the late John” Jack”) Hrabosky of Ford City and Mary ( the late Jack) Donovan of MA; many nieces, nephew, great-nieces and great- nephews; extended family and many friends.

Family will receive friends on Tuesday, August 19,2025 from 2-4 and 6 PM until time of Blessing Service at 8 PM in the Mantini Funeral Home, Inc., 702 Sixth Avenue, Ford City with the Very Reverend Eric Dinga as officiant.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his honor to the Sisters of Divine Providence, 9000 Babcock Boulevard, Allison Park, PA 15101 or to your local food banks.

08/08/2025

Our condolences to the family of Carolyn M. Thorne, who passed away on Wednesday, August 6,2025.

Carolyn (Merz) Thorne, 88, of Mars, PA, formerly of Ford City, PA, passed away peacefully in her residence on Wednesday, August 6, 2025.

Born August 16,1936 in St. Louis, MO, she was the daughter of the late Lambert E. and Elizabeth (Bremer) Merz. She married James E. Thorne in 1962 and received her Master of Science in Education from Eastern Illinois University several years later.

Carolyn taught music at the Catholic school in Ford City and in her home and was the choir director for Christ Prince of Peace Church, formerly St. Mary’s Catholic Church, for many years. Many families fondly remember her patience and calming influence during their music instruction. She raised her family in Robinson, IL and then in Ford City and was also very active in community service, especially involving her children’s activities when they were younger.

In addition to her parents, Carolyn was preceded in death by her loving husband of 46 years, James E. Thorne, as well as her brother Lambert C., his wife Joan Merz, and two of their children, nephew Mark and niece Nita.

She is survived by daughters Karen (Peter) Coschigano of The Plains, OH and Joanne Patterson of Valencia, PA; son James M. (Michelle) Thorne of Alexandria, VA; grandchildren Natalie, Marissa, Blaire, Matthew, Kelsie, Marshall, Colton, Hunter, and Colten; nephew Matthew and niece Nancy; extended family, friends, and many of her musical students.

Family will receive friends on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, from 10 AM until the time of Mass of Christian Burial at 11 AM, both in Christ, Prince of Peace Catholic Church, Fourth Avenue, Ford City, PA. The Very Reverend Eric Dinga will officiate the mass. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to your favorite charity

08/06/2025

Our condolences to the family of Gregory M. Hika who passed away on Monday, August 4,2025.

Gregory M. “Hunk Eye” Hika, Sr., 79, of Kittanning passed away unexpectedly on Monday, August 4,2025 in his home.

Born March 12,1946 in Rural Valley, he was the son of the late Stephen T. and Helen (Phillippi) Hika, Sr.

Greg was a lifelong resident of the Kittanning area. He enjoyed target shooting, classic cars and their restoration, winning awards at times for his expertise; photography, including aerial and wedding photography; and a growing appreciation for most animals. He enjoyed his cats, playing cards (especially online poker), but most of all deeply loved his time with his wife, children and grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Stephen and Jonathan Hika; and a group of his favorite felines.

Greg is survived by his beloved wife Patricia (Younkins) Hika; sons, Gregory (Rosalie) Hika, Jr. of Sarasota, FL, Curtiss (Rochelle) Hika of Andrews, NC, and Jonathan Hika of San Diego, CA; daughter Christie Hika and husband Alex Carnathan; grandchildren Ashley Marie, Daniel, Justin, Monica, Grace, Jack, Gwendolyn, Jayden, and Khaleesi; brother Mark (Beverly) Hika of Craigsville ; nieces, nephews, extended family and great friends.

Visitation will be held Thursday, August 7,2025 from 2-4 and 6-8 PM in the Mantini Funeral Home, Inc., 701 Sixth Avene, Ford City.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his honor to Orphans of the Storm, 11878 PA-85, Kittanning, PA 16201.

07/25/2025

Our heartfelt condolences to the family of Homer Patton who passed away on Tuesday, July 22,2025.

Homer J. Patton, 80, of Kittanning passed away on Tuesday, July 22,2025 in his residence.

Born April 12,1945 in Kittanning, he was the son of the late Homer and Mildred (Marish) Patton.

Homer worked as a welder, then at PPG as a laborer prior to retirement. He was an active member of the Ford City Sportsman Club and an avid gun enthusiast.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son Joseph H. Patton in 2007.

Homer is survived by his wife Monica (Karl) Patton; daughter Karen (Amy L. Jackson) Snyder; grandson Jacob (Katey) Snyder; great-grandchildren Eric J. and Benjamin Snyder, and a new grandson on the way; extended family.

Per Homer’s wishes, all services were private and entrusted to Mantini Funeral Home, Inc., Ford City.

07/13/2025

Our condolences to the family of Darlene R. (Heasley) Liston who passed away Saturday July 12, 2025.

Darlene R. (Heasley) Liston, 88, of Ford City passed away peacefully on Saturday , July 12, 2025, in QLS Sugarcreek, Worthington.

Born December 14,1936 in Kittanning, she was the daughter of the late William and Helen (Taylor) Heasley.

She was a lifelong resident of the Ford City area. Darlene enjoyed crossword puzzle books, cooking, canning, and baking. Her life was centered around her family, especially her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren.

In addition to her parents, Darlene was preceded in death by her husband James L. Liston in 1998; her daughter Donna A. Liston; and siblings Ronald Heasley and Anita Claypoole.

She is survived by cherished family; daughters Carol Coddington of Somerset, Cheryl (Randy) Bowser of Worthington, and Stephanie (Bryan) Higginson of Ford Cliff; sons James D. Liston of Ford City, Ronald J. Liston, also of Ford City, and Steven Liston of Sarver; grandchildren Clifford (Jamie), Kimberly (Chad), Brian, Angelina, Amber (Cory), Courtney (John), Cory (Nikki), Mathias, Mary, Aiden, Tyler, and Abigail; numerous great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren; sister Sandra Fiscus of West Kittanning; and extended family.

Visitation will be held on Friday, July 18,2025 from 2 P.M. – time of service at 6 P.M. in the Mantini Funeral Home, Inc., 701 Sixth Avenue, Ford City with Pastor Curt Sirwell as officiant.

Interment private in Kittanning Cemetery, Kittanning.

06/28/2025

Our condolences to the family of Linda L. Kuhta who passed away on Saturday, June 28,2025.

Linda L. (Wick) Kuhta, 81, of Ford City, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Saturday, June 28,2025 in her home.

Born August 29,1943 in Hamburg, NY, she was the daughter of the late Russell D. and Laura J. (Stevenson) Wick.

Linda was a long time resident of the Ford City area and a homemaker. She enjoyed feeding the wildlife that surrounded her country home and sitting on the porch with her dog Tucker. Linda loved puzzle books, game playing on her iPad, but especially loved her time with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

In addition to her parents, Linda was preceded in death by her husband Arthur W. Kuhta on October 10, 2014; and all 8 of her siblings.

She is survived by children Arthur W. Kuhta, Jr. (Dawn), Daniel Kuhta, Debra Pechan (Ronald) and Sandra Kuhta, all of Ford City; 6 grandchildren; 7 great-grandchildren; her cherished dog Tucker; extended family and friends.

Visitation will be held Monday, June 30,2025 from 5-7 PM in Mantini Funeral Home, Inc., 701 Sixth Avenue, Ford City.

All further services are private to honor Linda’s wishes.

Mantini Funeral Home, Inc.

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