Obituaries

Mrs. Karen S. Knechtel, 63, of Wampum passed away on Friday, November 25th, 2022 at her family homestead, following a long battle with muscular sclerosis. Karen was born on November 23rd, 1959 in Beaver County to the late Samuel R. and Mary R. (Sedgwick) Heaton Sr. She graduated from Beaver Falls with the class of 1977. She also graduated from the Pittsburgh Beauty Academy and from the Community College of Beaver County, where she earned her Licensed Practical Nursing Certificate. She worked in senior care and was a dedicated nurse and nursing administrator. She belonged to the VFW post #8106…

Nicholas Anthony Frisk Jr., 81, of Ellwood City, passed away peacefully on November 22, 2022 at his residence while in his wife’s arms. Born on August 23rd, 1941, in Ellwood City. Nick was the son of late Nicholas Anthony Frisk Sr. and Clara Rose Frisk of Ellwood City. After setting numerous records as a half back for the Lincoln High Wolverines, Nick went on to play football at Baldwin Wallace University on a scholarship, where he earned a degree in history and political science. After taking time away from his education, Nick worked in Ellwood City and used his earnings…

Mr. Robert (Herbie) Wright, 85, of Franklin Township, peacefully passed into eternal rest on the morning of November 21st. Born December 11, 1936, in Fombell. He was the son of the late Joseph and Dorothea (Kirkwood) Wright. Herbie was a magnet for fun, a lover of life, never missing an opportunity to make you feel like the most important person in the room. Herbie loved yard sales, camping, and admiring classic cars. He would never turn down spending time shooting the breeze. Most importantly, Herbie adored his family and spending time with them at the Outer Banks. He had worked…

Mr. David W. Byler, 79, of Wayne Township passed away on Sunday, November 20th, 2022 at the Heritage Valley Medical Center. Mr. Byler was born in New Castle on June 27th, 1943 to the late David A. and Agnes (Donnely) Byler. He had graduated from New Castle High School with the class of 1962. Following high school Dave started his career as a truck driver until his retirement. He is a member of the Wampum Methodist Church, Union Twp. Lions Club, and life member of the Shenango China Rod & Gun Club. An outdoorsman, Dave enjoyed hunting, fishing, and riding…

Mr. Gregory “Greg” Ritorto, 62, of Ellwood City passed away on Sunday, November 20th, 2022 at his residence following a short illness. Greg was born on September 9th, 1960 in Ellwood City to the late Frank and Joanne E. (Timpano) Ritorto Sr.. He graduated from Lincoln High School with the class of 1978. Greg was a member of the Divine Grace Parish Holy Redeemer Church, the Son’s of Italy #608, and the Ellwood City Saxon’s Club. He enjoyed golfing, especially at Del-Mar Golf course, and always lending a helping hand. Greg cared for others, and was very active in his…