Mantini Funeral Home, Inc.

Mantini Funeral Home, Inc. Funeral Home

06/19/2026

Our condolences to the family of David W. Fair of Kittanning, who passed away on Friday, June 19,2026 in his residence.

David W. Fair, 65, of Kittanning passed a way peacefully in his residence on Friday, June 19,2026.

Born June 13,1961 in Kittanning, he was the son of the late Chester W. and surviving Janet (Dunmire) Fair.

Dave was a lifelong resident of the area. He was a talented Woodsmith, best known for his wood carvings, winning awards and many First-Place ribbons with his outstanding carvings. He spent his working career at Fair’s Woodshop. He enjoyed outdoor sports, hunting, and fishing, especially with good friends and family. Dave was also a proud Mason. He particularly enjoyed his time spent honing his craft, and spending quality time with his family. He was a member of the Victory Baptist Church in Kittanning.

In addition to his father, he was preceded in death by best friend and outdoorsman Jim Norris.

He is survived by his mother, Janet Fair, of Kittanning; sister Dianne Varner of Indiana; niece Heidi (Kelly) Donahue of Kittanning; great-nephews Mike and Nick; ex-nephew-in-law Jason Raleigh; extended family; and many good friends.

Family will receive friends on Wednesday, June 24,2026 from 6-8 PM in the Mantini Funeral Home, Inc., 701 Sixth Avenue, Ford City. Additional visitation will be held on Thursday, June 25,2026 from 10 AM until the time of service at 11 AM in the funeral home with Pastor Leo Lenze as officiant.

Burial private in Slate Lick Cemetery.

06/11/2026

Our condolences to the family of Paul J.Zahradnik, Jr., who passed away on Wednesday, June 10,2026.

Paul J. Zahradnik, Jr.,84, of Ford City passed away Wednesday, June 10,2026 in ACMH in Kittanning, PA.

Born on July 9,1941 in Kittanning, he was the son of the late Paul J. and Dorothea (Myers) Zahradnik, Sr.

Paul was a lifelong resident of the Ford City Area. He was employed at PPG and worked for various grocers as a butcher prior to his retirement. Paul was a previous member of Holy Trinity Church, and a current member of Christ, Prince of Peace Catholic Church in Ford City. His faith never wavered his entire life.

Paul enjoyed playing guitar, painting, writing his own songs and singing, crafting and creating. He was very artistic, painting on many types of media, whether it was canvas, plates, or even eggs. He also took great enjoyment in his “daily rides”, just peacefully enjoying the scenery.

Paul loved his family dearly, with faith, family, and artistic expression forming his trinity.

In addition to his parents, Paul was preceded in death by son Kevin Zahradnik in 2007; grandson Isaac; and brothers Allan Zahradnik and infant Jerome Zahradnik.

Paul is survived by his wife Amy (Keener) Zahradnik; son Erin (Melissa) Zahradnik of NuMine and daughter Michelle Sperl of Brackenridge; grandchildren Timmy (Becky), Kayla (Cody), Zachery, Kylie (Devin), Malaya and Annie; great-grandchildren Wesson, Alora, Addie, Rori, Aubrey and Otto; sister-in-law Nancy Zahradnik of Greensburg; extended family and friends.

Family will receive friends on Friday, June 12,2026 from 6-8 PM in the Mantini Funeral Home, Inc., 701 Sixth Avenue, Ford City. Additional visitation will be held on Saturday, June 13,2026 from 10 AM until time of transfer prayers. Mass of Christian Burial will be conducted at 11 AM in Christ, Prince of Peace Catholic Church with Father Madhu Kodavatikanti as officiant. Burial to follow in Holy Trinity Cemetery, Ford City

06/08/2026

Our condolences to the family of Kathleen Sanoba, who passed away on May 22,2026 in Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH.

Kathleen Sanoba,72, of Garfield Heights, OH, passed away on Friday, May 22,2026 in Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH.

Born May 22,1954 in Cleveland, she was the daughter of the late Edward G. And Dorothy (Wintgens) Sanoba.

Kathleen grew up and lived in the Cleveland area all of her life. She was an Information Technologist for health care systems in the Cleveland area prior to her retirement.

She is survived by her brother Michael (Marie) Sanoba of Maple Heights, OH, and her treasured niece Maddie, of whom she was very close.

Inurnment with committal will be held on Saturday, June 20, 2026 at 10:30 AM at Holy Trinity Cemetery, Ford City with Father Madhu Kodavatikanti as officiant, where she will be eternally reunited with her parents.

Donations may be made in her honor to the charity of one’s choice.

05/29/2026

Our sincere condolences to the family of Joseph Stivason who unexpectedly passed away on Thursday, May 28,2026.

Joseph Stivason,66, of McGrann, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, May 28,2026.

Born October 30,1959 in Kittanning, he was the son of the late Darrell and surviving Mary Ellen (Sanoba) Stivason.

Joe was a lifelong resident of the Ford City area. He was a member of St. Mary, our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Kittanning and a former member of Manor Township Firehall and Eagles. Joe loved fishing, riding motorcycles and watching all of his family participate in sports (Hockey, Football, and Cheerleading). He never missed “Friday Night Lights”. His time was always spent with his family and friends.

Joe coached football for over 20 years, JV and Varsity Special Teams (…..you know, during the successful years…….…..where they beat the rival Kittanning teams) and coached hockey with the very same result, hugging Tanner so hard when they took the Hockey championship and hugging Jesse after he played his final football game against South Park, both with tears in their eyes.

Joe created so many memories, Ford City Day at Kennywood, Ashley making him cry in front of his friends at her wedding, workdays yelling at his kid- not because he was mad, he just couldn’t hear. They all were given cherished nicknames, but not the tender kind. Joe was legendary. Whether it was getting the last haircut at Max’s Barber Shop or holding court daily at the ByLow (the new Max’s hangout which he jokingly called the “HeMan’s , woman haters club”).

“Stivy” will be sorely missed by his cherished family and good friends.

In addition to his father, Joe was preceded in death by his sister Tracy Stivason on April 5, 2026.

Joe is survived by his beloved wife of 43+ years Elizabeth “Beth” (Emminger) Stivason of McGrann; daughter Ashley (Mario) Rocco of Ford City; sons Jesse (Morgan) Stivason of Ford City and Tanner Stivason of McGrann; sisters Susan (John) Gispanski of Manorville and Angela (Dave) Fox of Ford City; grandchildren Hudson, Delaney, Oaklynn, Santino, Collins, Gino and Steel; nieces, nephews, extended family and a host of good friends.

Family will receive friends on Tuesday, June 2,2026 from 2-4 and 6-8 in the Mantini Funeral Home, Inc., 701 Sixth Avenue, Ford City.

Blessing Service will be conducted in the funeral home on Wednesday, June 3,2026 at 11 AM with Father Madhu Kodavatikanti as officiant. Burial to follow in St. Mary Cemetery, Kittanning, PA.

05/19/2026

Our condolences to the family of Thomas Zanoli who passed away May 14,2026.

Thomas Michael Zanoli, 90, of Ford City, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully on May 14, 2026.
Born to John and Frances Zanoli, Thomas lived a life defined by devotion to his family, faith, country, and community. A proud Catholic and respected member of the Ford City community, he was known for his giving spirit, warm smile, and ability to make everyone around him feel like family.
Thomas proudly served his country in the United States Navy, joining immediately after high school and earning his submarine license during his service. Following his military career, he dedicated 35 years to the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board, where he spent the last 25 years serving as a District Manager throughout western Pennsylvania. He was admired for his strong work ethic, leadership, and integrity.
Above all, Thomas cherished time spent with those he loved. He enjoyed fishing, boating, playing his guitar, and gathering with family for a wonderful Italian dinner accompanied by a glass of Chianti. His greatest joy was simply being surrounded by family and friends, sharing laughter and creating lasting memories.
Thomas is survived by his beloved wife of 62 years, Judy Zanoli; his daughter, Letitia Bowers (Kurt); his son, Tommy Zanoli (Norma); his brothers, Gus Zanoli, Johnny Zanoli, and Jerry Zanoli; his granddaughters, Taylor Ferguson (Ian), Brenna Bowers, and Mia Benvenuti (Nick); his grandson, Chase; and his great-grandsons, Miles and Murphy Ferguson. He also leaves behind many cherished family members and close friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Frances Zanoli.
Family and friends will be received on Friday, May 22, 2026, from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Mantini Funeral Home. A funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, May 23, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Christ Prince of Peace Parish.
Thomas will be remembered for his kindness, generosity, unwavering love for his family, and the smile that never left his face. His legacy of love and respect will live on in all who knew him.

05/14/2026

Our condolences to the family and friends of Lou Ann Humphrey who passed away on May5, 2026.

Lou Ann Humphrey, 82, of Kittanning, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully on May 5, 2026. Born on July 2, 1943, in Clarion, Pennsylvania, she was the beloved daughter of Paul Howard Humphrey and Ruby June Hepler Humphrey.

Lou Ann was a devoted sister, aunt, co-worker, and friend, whose kindness, strength, and generous spirit touched countless lives. She is survived by her brother, Kenneth Howard Humphrey; her sister, Karen Lynn (Kay) Saunders; her nieces, Amy Wyant Milliken and Beth Wyant Finn; Her nephews, Corbin Wyant, Gregory Humphrey, Geoff Humphrey, Eric Saunders, and Joe Saunders; and many extended family members and dear friends, with heartfelt appreciation for Josephine (Pina) Edwards and cousin, Ron Shafer. She was preceded in death by her sister, Donna Lee Humphrey Wyant.

A dedicated and hard-working woman, Lou Ann worked at Robert Shaw Electronics, then spent many years employed at Indiana University of Pennsylvania, where she worked in custodial and facilities services. She took tremendous pride in her work and was known for going above and beyond in every task she undertook. Coworkers admired her strong work ethic, cheerful spirit, and determination, especially during the difficult winter months when she hand-shoveled snow-deep campus walkways to keep students and staff safe. Though the work was demanding, Lou Ann approached it with perseverance and excellence, earning the respect and appreciation of everyone around her.

Outside of work, Lou Ann found joy in simple pleasures and the people she loved. She adored animals, especially dogs, and often shared her home with beloved pets. She was an enthusiastic Pittsburgh Steelers fan, whose love for football could be seen throughout her cozy, welcoming home, decorated proudly in black and gold. Family joked that stepping into her home felt like entering Steelers headquarters.

Lou Ann loved western movies, especially those starring John Wayne, and treasured memories of visiting Cheyenne, Wyoming during trips to see her brother in Colorado. She enjoyed shopping trips to Pittsburgh Mills and Monroeville, spending time at Kennywood Park with family and friends, relaxing at Cook’s Forest and Crooked Creek State Parks, and swimming at Monty‘s pool. She also loved driving her Subaru Brat pickup truck, and cherished the countryside, particularly the home she built and lovingly decorated on Trim Tree Road in Indiana County, Pennsylvania.

Those who knew Lou Ann best remember her as kind, generous, resilient, and full of humor. She generously gave of her time and resources, helping care for her mother and her family for many years.

In later years, Lou Ann’s faith became an especially important part of her life. Friends and loved ones described her relationship with Christ as sincere and deeply-rooted. Her faith shined through her daily interactions, her compassion for others, and her ability to bring comfort, laughter, and encouragement wherever she went. Lou Ann was a member of Harvest Church, where her faith in Christ flourished. She was especially loved by the residents and staff at Melody Manor, where her welcoming spirit, living force, and joyful personality made her a light for all to follow. At Melody Manor, she was the welcoming team for Harvest Church Visiting Ministries, rounding up residents for services.

Lou Ann will be remembered for her hard-working nature, unwavering loyalty to family and friends, deep faith, and the warmth she brought into every room. She was truly one of a kind, a little firecracker of laughter and kindness who will be deeply missed by all who had the blessing of knowing her.

May she rest in eternal peace in the loving arms of God and Jesus Christ.

A Celebration of Life for Lou Ann Humphrey will be held on June 20 from 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM at Melody Manor, 413 N. McKean St., Kittanning, PA 16201.

In lieu of flowers, please contribute to Tiny Cause Dog Rescue in Vandergriff, PA or Orphans of the Storm Animal Shelter in Kittanning, PA, 16201.

05/13/2026

Our condolences to the family of Donna J. Bryan who passed away peacefully in her home on May 13, 2026.

Donna Jean Bryan, 88, of Ford City passed away peacefully at her home on May 13, 2026.
She was born September 19, 1937 to Mabel “Jean” and Lorenzo “Red” Campbell. She was preceded in death by her husband, John, whom she married in June, 1959. She was a graduate of Elderton High School and a lifelong homemaker.
Mrs. Bryan had a passion for reading and always had a book nearby. It was not unusual for her to read a book a day. She also had a love for flowers and gardening.
Mrs. Bryan was also known for her baking skills, especially her delicious cakes.
She is survived by her brother, Gerald Campbell, Ford City; daughter, Felicia Tomaswick, Ford City. Sons Scott (Janice Bryan), Kittanning, and Steven Bryan, Worthington. Grandchildren Brandon Bryan, Ford City; Levon Bryan, Ford City; Cameron Bryan, Kittanning; Todd (Casey) Johns, Kentucky; Hilary (Eli) Tomaswick, Ford City; and Jordan Tomaswick, Tennessee. Great-grandchildren Kaylee, Makenna, Jack, Olivia, Madeline, and Gabe. Along with several nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by husband, John “Jack” Bryan Jr.; her parents; son, Michael Bryan; sister, Kathie Young and brothers Paul Campbell and James Campbell.
The family would like extend a special thank you to LIFE Armstrong County for their compassionate care and dedicated service.
Visitation will be held on Friday, May 15, 2026 from 6-8 p.m. in the Mantini Funeral Home, Inc., 701 Sixth Ave., Ford City.
Additional visitation will be held on Saturday, May 16, 2026 from 10 a.m. until time of service at 11 a.m. in the funeral home.
Interment private at United Rockville Cemetery.

04/28/2026

Our condolences to the family of George R. Mechling who passed away in his home on Monday, April 27,2026.

George R. Mechling,86, of Ford City passed away peacefully surrounded by family in his home on Monday, April 27,2026.

Born April 30,1939 in Kittanning, he was the son of the late Floyd F. and Rhoda Marie (Jordan) Mechling, Sr.

George was a proud veteran of the U.S. Navy, serving his country from 1959- 1964. He was a longtime active member of United Rockville Lutheran Church and served as the cemetery sextant at St. John’s Lutheran Cemetery for over 40 years. He sang in the church choir for many years and served on church council.

George enjoyed hunting in his younger years, keeping his yard looking neat and manicured. He liked watching the Pittsburgh Pirates, Steelers, and Penguins play. George loved his family and cherished his time with them.

In addition to his parents, George was preceded in death by sister Edna Molchen and brothers Darrel Mechling, Floyd Mechling, Jr., and Chester Mechling.

He is survived by his beloved wife of over 66 years Kathleen (Miller)Mechling; sons David G. Mechling of Ford City and Michael R. (Christine) Mechling of Worthington; grandchildren Bryan (Denise) and Brittany (Gavin); 5 great-grandchildren; extended family and friends.

Visitation will be held Thursday, April 30,2026 from 2-4 and 6-8 PM in the Mantini Funeral Home, Inc.,701 Sixth Avenue, Ford City. Funeral service will be held Friday, May 1,2026 in the funeral home at 10 AM with Pastor Barbara Love as officiant. Interment to follow in St. John’s Cemetery on Little Germany Road, Ford City.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his honor to: United Rockville Lutheran Church, c/o St John and Shotts Cemetery Fund, 720 State Route 2020, Ford City, PA 16226

04/28/2026

Our condolences to the family of James P. Novak who passed aeay in his home on April 27,2026.

James “Jim” Paul Novak passed away peacefully on April 27,2026 in the comfort of his home on Bunker Hill Road at the age of 94. A true son of Ford City, Jim was born on June 28,1931 to John and Theresa (Kamas) Novak and grew up on Sixth Avenue attending Holy Trinity Church and Ford City High School. He was a proud Air Force veteran who served in the Korean War as a radio mechanic. Jim worked as a machinist at the PPG plant in his hometown. He was a devout Catholic, an avid trapshooter, longtime active member of the Ford City Sportsmen’s Association, master tinkerer, poker player, bowler, outdoorsman, fanatical mower of grass, standout member of the community, and a friend to all. Jim’s greatest joy in life was that of a hands on family man, welcoming every child, grandchild and great- grandchild with open arms and his wonderful smile. Whenever he was needed, he would be there with whatever tools he thought were necessary for the job. Attending horse shows, sports, concerts, banquets, et c of all of his children, grandchildren and great- grandchildren was a major priority. He loved the occasional stop at Stanley’s for a hot sausage and a frozen mug of beer.!Jim “Immer” was an integral part of putting together the Ford City Clock and gazebo alongside the Mantini’s and his buddies Chad Kijowski and Jim Tomaswick. The cladding of copper and the climbing in and out of the window to work on the clock was a labor of love for his community. !Jim was married to his beloved wife Helen (Mauthe) Novak for nearly six decades until her passing in 2015. He was also preceded in death by his brothers Vendel “Red”, Albert “Shorty”, and John, as well as his sisters Leona Bennett, Mildred Chiodo, Ann Marie Bono, and Elizabeth “Betty” Novak; son-in-law David Hillegass and grandson Kyle Shaffer.!He is survived by his six children; Linda (Tim Fouse) Novak, James (Deborah) Novak, Jr., Valerie (Edward) Wilson, Laura Hillegass, Bruce (Lisa) Novak and Keith (Heather Wolfe) Novak; grandchildren Christopher Wilson, Tina Wilson, Kyle Baker, Paige Baker, Matt Novak, Alissa Novak, Alura Novak, Jordyn Novak, Dylan Vorpe, and Jess (Vorpe) Jack, 8 great-grandchildren; one ornery cat (Diva); and extended family, all of whom will miss him dearly.!Visitation will be held on Thursday, April 30,2026 from 5 PM -8 PM in the Mantini Funeral Home, Inc., 701 Sixth Avenue, Ford City. Additional visitation will be held on Friday, May 1,2026 from 12:30 PM until time of transfer prayers at 1:30 PM in the funeral home. Mass of Christian burial will be conducted on Friday, May 1,2026 at 2 PM in Christ, Prince of Peace Catholic Church with Father Madhu Kodavatikanti as officiant. Burial and Military Honors will follow in Holy Trinity Cemetery, Ford City.

04/26/2026

Our condolences to the family of Samuel H. French who passed away on Saturday, April 25, 2026.

Samuel H. French,79, of Ford Cliff passed away on Saturday, April 25,2026 in Armstrong Rehabilitation and Nursing, Kittanning.

Born October 15,1946, he was the son of the late Sam and Elizabeth (Montebell) Murphy.

Sam was a graduate of Kittanning High School and held an Associates degree in mechanics. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army. Sam worked as a heavy equipment operator prior to his retirement.

He was a member of the former St. Mary Catholic Church in Ford City and was a lifetime member of Ford Cliff Volunteer Firehall, where he was a trustee for over 35 years. He enjoyed watching WWE wrestling, gardening, collected and fixed cars in his younger years, and could be found talking to his buddies often. Friends knew if they needed anything, just ask Sam.

Sam most cherished his family and his wife of just over 57 years Susan (Masters) French.

In addition to his parents, Sam was preceded in death by his only child, Jennifer Sue Varner on June 9,1997.

He is survived by his wife Susan; granddaughters Samantha (Andrew) Fellhauer of Vandergrift and Taylr Varner of Altoona; great-grandchildren Teagan and Emersyn and sister Marilyn.

Per Sam’s wishes, all services private and entrusted to Mantini Funeral Home, Inc., Ford City.
Burial in St. Mary Cemetery, Ford City.

In honor of her husband, Susan penned a poem to Sam:

Your life was a blessing
Your memory a treasure
You were loved beyond
words and missed
Beyond measure

Address

701 6th Avenue
Ford City, PA
16226

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