Ralph Schugar Chapel, Inc.

Ralph Schugar Chapel, Inc. Pittsburgh's only Jewish family-owned and operated funeral home providing professional, dignified, and compassionate service for almost a century.

DR. HARVEY WOLFE: April 14, 1938 - September 2, 2026. Beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, educator, mentor, a...
09/03/2026

DR. HARVEY WOLFE: April 14, 1938 - September 2, 2026. Beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, educator, mentor, and friend, passed away peacefully at the age of 88 in his home on September 2, 2026.

Born and raised in Baltimore, Maryland, Harvey attended Baltimore City College before earning his B.E.S. in Industrial Engineering, M.S.E. in Operations Research, and Ph.D. in Operations Research from Johns Hopkins University.

In 1964, Harvey joined the faculty of the University of Pittsburgh, beginning a career that would span five decades. A professor of Industrial Engineering and department chair from 1985 to 2000, Harvey was an early leader in health-systems engineering, applying engineering principles to improve health care delivery. He co-authored three books, mentored generations of students, served as President of the Institute of Industrial Engineers, and received the Frank and Lillian Gilbreth Industrial Engineering Award, the highest honor bestowed by his profession.

For all his professional accomplishments, family remained at the center of Harvey's life. He married Elaine Gail (Roffman) Wolfe on September 13, 1959, beginning a partnership that lasted more than 65 years until her death in 2025. Together they raised four children, Dr. Andrew (Roni) Wolfe, Bonnie (Ted) Bloom, Rabbi Stephanie Wolfe, and Shoshanah (Brian) Drake, and were blessed with five grandchildren, Kira, Molly, Trevor, Sarah, and Paige. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Gail Wolfe, and was preceded in death by his brother, Alan Wolfe.

Temple David was an important part of Harvey's life for more than 60 years. He served the congregation in numerous leadership roles, including president, financial secretary, comptroller, and financial vice president, and chaired two rabbinic search committees. He also devoted countless hours to strengthening the congregation's financial stability and planning for its future. Whether offering his leadership and expertise or putting his woodworking skills to use on projects throughout the building, Harvey remained deeply committed to Temple David throughout his life.

Harvey was a problem-solver, a lifelong learner, and a teacher far beyond the classroom. He believed deeply in education, mentoring, hard work, and learning from failure, and took great satisfaction in helping others succeed. His curiosity, humor, wisdom, and love for his family will live on in the many lives he touched.

Services at Ralph Schugar Chapel, Inc. 5509 Centre Avenue, Shadyside on Friday, September 4, 2026 at 2:30 PM. Visitation one hour prior to service (1:30 PM - 2:30 PM). Interment Temple Sinai Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Harvey and Elaine Wolfe Rabbinic Chair Endowment at Temple David, 4415 Northern Pike, Monroeville, PA 15146, or to the Albert G. Holzman Memorial Scholarship for Excellence in Industrial Engineering at the University of Pittsburgh. www.schugar.com

Kristy Noel Guyaux, of McKeesport, PA, on Tuesday, August 25, 2026. Beloved daughter of John and Tammy Stophel. Treasure...
08/27/2026

Kristy Noel Guyaux, of McKeesport, PA, on Tuesday, August 25, 2026. Beloved daughter of John and Tammy Stophel. Treasured mother of Erica L. Stophel and Krysta L. Stophel. Sister of Shawn Pattakos. Beloved Grandma to Isabella Rose Stophel. Also survived by many cherished friends. Service and Interment Private. Contributions may be made to SpiritLife Inc. (spiritlifeinc.org). Arrangements entrusted to Ralph Schugar Chapel, Inc. www.schugar.com

JANE K. SHERMAN: Of Bridgewater, NJ, formerly of Pittsburgh, PA on Monday, August 17th. Beloved mother of Lisa (Stuart) ...
08/19/2026

JANE K. SHERMAN: Of Bridgewater, NJ, formerly of Pittsburgh, PA on Monday, August 17th. Beloved mother of Lisa (Stuart) Persky. Sister of Judi (Ted) McKissick. Predeceased by sisters Joan (Donald) Kollar and Joyce (Steven) Throne and brother Frank Kukurin. Grandmother of Aaron and Alexander Persky. Also survived by nieces and nephews and Michael (Debra) Sherman and Cathy (late Allan) Steinitz. Friends may meet at Ralph Schugar Chapel, Inc., 5509 Centre Avenue, Shadyside on Friday, August 21, 2026 at 12 Noon and then proceed to West View Cemetery for 1 PM Graveside Services. Donations may be made to Rabbi Selsberg's Discretionary Fund at Temple Sholom in Bridgewater, NJ, https://templesholomnj.org/give/ or a charity of the donor's choice. www.schugar.com

BARBARA ESCOTT KELLMAN: Passed away peacefully in Maplewood, New Jersey, on August 12, 2026, at the age of 103. A devote...
08/14/2026

BARBARA ESCOTT KELLMAN: Passed away peacefully in Maplewood, New Jersey, on August 12, 2026, at the age of 103. A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and aunt, Barbara was known for her strong spirit, generous hospitality, and deep love for her family.

Born in New Rochelle, New York, to Philip and Bess Routman Escott, Barbara shared a loving marriage of 62 years with her husband, Milton, until his passing. Together they raised three sons: Paul Michael Kellman, H. David Kellman, M.D., and Gerald Allan Kellman, who predeceased her. Barbara is survived by Paul and David, their spouses, Adele Laslie Kellman and Roberta Sales, and her grandchildren, Simon B. Kellman (spouse Alicia McCauley) and Allison Kellman Tudor (spouse Nicholas Tudor), as well as her great-granddaughter, Emmy Tudor. She was also especially close to her many nieces and nephews in Pittsburgh, including the Kline, Brady and Siniakin families. Her children remember being part of a large extended family and sharing many happy occasions with their Pittsburgh and Charleroi cousins, with the support of Barbara and her husband.

Barbara lived all her married life in Monongahela, Pennsylvania, and at Deep Creek Lake, Maryland, with winters in Pompano Beach, Florida. Weekends with Barbara and Milton at the family cottage at Deep Creek are among her family's most cherished memories. There, Barbara welcomed a house full of guests with home-cooked meals, comfortable beds, and the feeling that there was always room for one more. She would make different meals for Milton, to be sure he had what he liked. Barbara insisted that every visitor write in her Deep Creek book before leaving, and at the end of the summer would delight in reading each message.
Music was a lifelong pleasure for Barbara, particularly opera and violin, and she never forgot a melody. She also loved traveling with Milton. Barbara brought a clear sense of style to everything around her; whether that was ensuring she had a carefully chosen outfit for each special occasion, or that every room in her home was considered down to the last detail. In addition to taking care of her home and family, she also worked for many years alongside Milton at the Monongahela Iron and Metal Company.

Barbara's life was defined by her devotion to the people she loved. She had a generous nature, a strong sense of family, and a gift for making those around her feel cared for and welcome. Her family will remember with gratitude the many meals she prepared, the homes she made comfortable, the adventures shared at Deep Creek, and, above all, the love and care she gave so freely throughout her long and remarkable life.

Barbara was a big supporter of the Hebrew Free Loan Association. Contributions in her memory may be made to the Milton Kellman Family Fund at the Association (4905 5th Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213).

Services and Interment Private. Arrangements entrusted to Ralph Schugar Chapel, Inc. www.schugar.com

08/04/2026

JOHN ANDREW KIKEL: November 22, 1947 - August 1, 2026

It is with deep sorrow that we share the news of John Andrew Kikel's passing on August 1, 2026. The loving husband and best friend of Lee Diane (Goldman) Kikel, with whom he recently celebrated their 35th wedding anniversary. Loving and cherished father of Jason Adam Kikel, with whom he loved to laugh and spend time.

John was born on November 22, 1947 in McKees Rocks, Pennsylvania. He was the son of the late John G. Kikel and the late Elizabeth (Pello) Kikel. He was the son-in-law of Melvin and Mildred Goldman, who adored him as if he were their own son. Brother of Raymond (Arlene) Kikel, Joyce (John Kotler), and Suzanne Kikel (John Stauffer). Also survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends. Best friend to the ever loyal Emily and Bryce.

John graduated from Point Park College in 1973 and enjoyed a three decade career in the mental health field, where he met his wife, Lee. He used his unyielding kindness and empathy in counseling to help others overcome their obstacles and limitations. A true mensch, he could strike up an enjoyable conversation with anyone.

John shared a love of travel with his family. His adventures took him to nearly every U. S. state, numerous national parks and forests, and various countries on five continents. He especially appreciated his time spent in Northern New Mexico.

The family wishes to thank Dr. Jennifer Fierle and the teams at UPMC Hillman Cancer Center and the Jewish Association on Aging, notably Stacey Tabanli, for their compassion and remarkable care.

Funeral Services Private. Interment Adath Jeshurun Cemetery. Call the funeral home at (412) 621-8282 for Shiva details.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in John's memory may be made to the Holocaust Center of Pittsburgh (https://hcofpgh.org/) or Classrooms Without Borders (https://cwbpgh.org/).

"The ideas that have lighted my way have been kindness, beauty and truth." - Albert Einstein

Arrangements entrusted to Ralph Schugar Chapel, Inc.

JAY M. CHILDS: On August 1, 2026. Son of the late Bernard and Florence Childs. Brother of the late Jordan Childs. Brothe...
08/01/2026

JAY M. CHILDS: On August 1, 2026. Son of the late Bernard and Florence Childs. Brother of the late Jordan Childs. Brother-in-law of Sheila Hauer. Cherished uncle of Norman (Gail) Childs, Scott Childs, and Brad (Linda) Childs. Survived by cousins Susie and Andy; great-nephews Jeremy (Alli) and Daniel (Phebe); great-great-nephew George Alvin; great-great-niece Willa Marie. Also survived by dear friend Bob Meisner. Jay was a lover of the arts, proudly telling everyone about his time as an actor for The Knickerty Knockerty Players. He was the manager of Dollar Bank in Squirrel Hill. Jay was an avid supporter of the Pitt Men's Study. Services and Interment Private. Contributions may be made to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research (https://www.michaeljfox.org/donate). Arrangements entrusted to Ralph Schugar Chapel, Inc. www.schugar.com

Marlene Judith (Karsh) Bernstein, born June 19, 1932, passed away peacefully on July 20, 2026, at the age of 94.Marlene ...
07/22/2026

Marlene Judith (Karsh) Bernstein, born June 19, 1932, passed away peacefully on July 20, 2026, at the age of 94.

Marlene was preceded in death by the love of her life, her husband, Joseph "Buddy" Bernstein; her parents, Anna and David Karsh; and her siblings, Florence Klein, Emanuel Karsh, and Joseph Klein.

Following her mother's death in 1934, Marlene was lovingly raised by her sister, Florence, and Florence's husband, Zola Klein. Their bond was made legal when they adopted Marlene at the age of 41, formally making Joseph, Eugene, and Gerald Klein her brothers.

Marlene was the devoted matriarch of a beautiful family she and Joe raised in Squirrel Hill. She is survived by her children, Larry (Karen, of blessed memory) Bernstein, Bob (Ellie) Bernstein, and Hollie (Donald) Machen; her brothers, Eugene (Robin) Karsh, and Sherwin (Helen) Karsh; and her brothers Eugene and Gerald Klein.

She is also survived by her seven grandchildren: David (Kate Barbee) Bernstein, Jaime (Steve Mason) Bernstein, Katie (David Miller) Bernstein, Alex (Teagen O'Malley) Bernstein, Daniel Rudov, Lindsey (Dylan Laventhal) Rudov, and Roxanne Rudov. She was the proud great-grandmother of Merrin O'Malley Bernstein and Nora Laventhal. She is also lovingly remembered by her many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Marlene was a dedicated mother and community leader. Proving that it is never too late to pursue a dream, she graduated from Duquesne University School of Law in 1983 at the age of 51. She practiced alongside her husband, son, and daughter at their family law firm, Bernstein & Bernstein. Of all her accomplishments, however, her most treasured roles were those of mother, grandmother and great-grandmother.

As the keeper of the family's history and records, Marlene treasured her extended family and made a point of staying connected with everyone through emails, cards, and her renowned Facebook posts. She loved to travel, read, and knit, and she cherished time spent with the people she loved. She touched many lives and will be deeply missed.

A graveside service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, July 24, 2026, at Temple Sinai Memorial Park. Shiva will follow at Imperial House at 5600 Munhall Road, Squirrel Hill.

Memorial contributions may be made to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society in memory of Marlene Bernstein at Remembering Marlene Bernstein (https://donate.nationalmssociety.org/campaigns/Remembering-Marlene-Bernstein), or mailed to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, P.O. Box 54879, Los Angeles, CA 90054.

Arrangements entrusted to Ralph Schugar Chapel, Inc. www.schugar.com

07/15/2026

Barry Lee Landay passed away peacefully on July 14th, 2026 surrounded by his loving family. He was the son of the late Lottie and Arnold Landay. He is survived by his cherished wife Rachel and beloved daughter Mardi (Rich) and adored grandson Rowan and family dog Desi. And also his sister Sharon Landay. He is also survived by his many wonderful cousins and friends. He will be forever remembered for his amazing sense of humor that brought joy to all around him. Services will be held at Beit Kulanu, 4905 Fifth Avenue, Oakland on Thursday, July 16th, 2026 at 2 PM. Visitation one hour prior to servies (1 PM - 2 PM). Interment Homewood Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made Humane Animal Rescue of Pittsburgh (https://humaneanimalrescue.org/donate/), in memory of Barry Landay. Arrangements entrusted to Ralph Schugar Chapel, Inc. www.schugar.com

HAROLD SEGAL: On Sunday, July 12, 2026. Beloved husband of the late Seretta H. Segal. Loving father of Lloyd M. Segal of...
07/13/2026

HAROLD SEGAL: On Sunday, July 12, 2026. Beloved husband of the late Seretta H. Segal. Loving father of Lloyd M. Segal of Los Angeles, CA, Marla (late Nathan) Mayle of Tampa, FL, Gary (Kelly) Segal of Chandler, AZ, Neal (Ellie) Segal of Pembroke, FL and the late Murray Segal. Brother of Irv (late Estelle) Segal, the late David and Paul Segal. Grandfather of Nathan Segal, Bryan and Courtney Mayle. Friends may meet at Ralph Schugar Chapel, Inc., 5509 Centre Avenue, Shadyside on Wednesday, July 15, 2026 at 10 AM and then proceed to Tree of Life Memorial Park for 11 AM Graveside Services. Contributions may be made to Tree of Life Congregation, P.O. Box, Pittsburgh, PA 15206. www.schugar.com

07/12/2026

Joel Herman Weiss, 73, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully on July 11, 2026.

Born on March 24, 1953, Joel was a proud lifelong Pittsburgher whose life was defined by his unwavering devotion to his family, his dedication to his work, and the enduring friendships he built throughout his life. He was a devoted father, a proud grandfather, a loving brother, and a loyal friend whose quiet strength, generosity, and steadfast character left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. He took immense pride in the lives his children built, and nothing brought him greater happiness than spending time with his grandchildren.

Joel is survived by his loving children, Lauren Weiss Winston, Aaron Weiss, and Stevey Weiss and her husband, Jason Rothfeld; his cherished grandchildren, Sarey, Benji, Joey, Chloe, and Remy; and his loving sister, Shelly.

Joel devoted almost his entire professional career to Equiparts, where he served as President and helped transform the family business into one of the most respected companies in the industry. Through his vision, integrity, and relentless work ethic, he built far more than a successful business. He built a community. Joel believed that the people who worked alongside him were not simply employees. They were family. That belief was reflected in every aspect of his leadership and ultimately in his decision to transition the company to employee ownership, ensuring that the people who helped build Equiparts would share in his future. For Joel, Equiparts was never just a career. It was a lifelong passion that gave him purpose, fulfillment, and countless lifelong friendships.

A proud Pittsburgher through and through, Joel never lost his love for his hometown or its teams. He was a devoted supporter of the Pittsburgh Steelers, Pittsburgh Pirates, and Pittsburgh Penguins and remained an enthusiastic fan through every season. Sports were more than entertainment for him. They were a source of tradition, connection, and countless memories shared with family, friends, and coworkers. His love of competition also extended into his own life. In his younger years, Joel embraced an active lifestyle and completed numerous marathons, demonstrating the determination and perseverance that became hallmarks of both his personal and professional life.

Above all else, Joel's greatest source of pride was his family. He celebrated the accomplishments of his children as though they were his own and found immeasurable joy in watching his grandchildren grow. His love was steady, his loyalty unwavering, and his presence a constant source of strength for those closest to him.

The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the many caregivers whose compassion, kindness, and dedication brought comfort to Joel throughout his journey. Your care meant more than words can express, and your support will always be remembered with deep gratitude.

Joel's legacy lives on in the family he loved, the friendships he treasured, the company that became his life's work, and the countless people whose lives he touched. He will be remembered for his integrity, humility, quiet determination, and unwavering loyalty. He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Services at Ralph Schugar Chapel, Inc., Inc., 5509 Centre Avenue, Shadyside, on Tuesday, July 14, 2026 at 1 PM. Visitation one hour prior to services (12 noon - 1 PM). Interment Agudath Achim Cemetery in Forest Hills.

Contributions may be made to the American Heart Association (https://www.heart.org/donate). www.schugar.com

Address

5509 Centre Avenue
Pittsburgh, PA
15232

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Ralph Schugar Chapel, Inc. posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The Practice

Send a message to Ralph Schugar Chapel, Inc.:

Shortcuts

Share