Mantini Funeral Home, Inc.

Mantini Funeral Home, Inc. Funeral Home

02/02/2026

Our condolences to the family of Carol S. Lerner, who passed away on Saturday, January 31,2026.

Carol S. Lerner, 83, of Kittanning passed away on Saturday, January 31,2026 in Grey’s Colonial Acres, Kittanning.

Born August 10,1942 in Charleston, WV, she was the daughter of the late Leon B. and Dorothy D. (Ellenberger) Williams.

Carol was of the catholic faith and was a member of the former Holy Trinity Church. She was a bank teller for the former People’s Bank, then for S & T Bank. She was a social member of the Kittanning Township VFD. Her hobbies included crafting, shopping, ceramics and was a fantastic baker, making many cookies and decorating her cakes for all occasions.

Carol was quite devoted to her cats, Buffy and Binx. Most of all, Carol deeply loved her family, forming a particular bond with her granddaughter Morgan and her first great-grandchild Hudson. Many fond memories were made shopping, babysitting and spending much time letting her family know how much she treasured them.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband Gerald Lerner; her son Jeffrey Lerner; and her brother John Williams.

Carol is survived by her daughter Lisa (Steve) Baker of Kittanning; grandchildren Morgan (Jesse) Stivason, Andrew Lerner and Anna Heilman; great-grandchildren Hudson, Oaklynn, Collins, and Steel; sister Judy (Hank) Lund of Washington state; nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

Family will receive friends on Wednesday, February 4,2026 from 2-4 and 6-8 PM in the Mantini Funeral Home, Inc., 701 Sixth Avenue, Ford City. Additional visitation will be held on Thursday, February 5,2026 from 10 AM until time of Blessing Service at 11 AM with the Very Reverend Eric Dinga as officiant. Interment private.

01/29/2026

Our condolences to the family of Jimmie R. Smartt, Jr. who passed away on Wednesday, January 28,2026 in Allegheny General Hospital, Pittsburgh.

Jimmie R. Smartt, Jr., 52, of East Brady passed away on Wednesday, January 28,2026 in Allegheny General Hospital, Pittsburgh.
Born March 20,1973 in Havre, Montana, he was the son of the late Jimmie R.
Smartt, Sr. And the surviving Joanne (Sloan) Smartt Ellenberger.
Jimmie worked at Eisler's Nursery in Hardscaping. He was a member of the APA and TAP Pool Leagues. Jimmie enjoyed hunting, fishing, hiking, camping, and anything outdoors. He was very artistic and handy, repairing and making custom cues for himself and others. Jimmie could create anything with his hands. Foremost, Jimmie loved spending his time with his family.
Jimmie was preceded in death by his father Jimmie R. Smartt, Sr. and nephew Keith Chuhra.
In addition to his mother, Jimmie is survived by his beloved wife Gretchen (McBee) Smartt of whom he married November 10,1994; daughters Victoria Smartt of East Brady and Kayla Bommer of Grove City; sons Devan (Rebecca) Smartt of Butler and Ethan Smartt of East Brady; sisters Kimberly (Kevin Schaeffer) Adams of Ford City, Dawna McDeavitt of Butler, Jamie, Shannon and Katlyn Smartt all of Mon-tana; nephew Craig Chuhra; a number of nieces, nephews, extended family and many friends.
All services were private and entrusted to Mantini Funeral Home, Inc., Ford City.
A Celebration of Life service will be held and announced in the future.

01/12/2026

Our condolences to the family of Margaret “Jean” Opalka who passed away on Sunday, January 11, 2026.

Margaret “Jean” (Renaldo) Opalka, 96, of Ford City passed away peacefully in her home surrounded by her family on Sunday, January 11,2026.
Born in Leechburg on June 26,1929, she was the daughter of the late John and Elizabeth Renaldo. She spent her early years in Leechburg before moving to Ford City with her parents. After meeting and marrying her husband, Dr. Paul Opalka, they spent the rest of their lives in Ford City.
An accomplished musician, she learned to play the piano and accordion at an early age. For many years, she gave lessons to individuals in the area. Jean was a member of the Junior Women’s, the LCBA, and delivered meals on wheels.
Jean loved being with family and friends, especially at their camp, where she and her husband spent many happy hours. She loved cooking, baking, playing cards, and walking to visit with her neighborhood friends. Jean listened to EWTN and recited the Rosary daily.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Dr. Paul Opalka, as well as her eldest son Dave Opalka, and her brothers John Renaldo, John Bertino and Alex Bertino.
Jean is survived by her son John (Julie) Opalka and daughter Kim Opalka; grandchildren Brandi, David, and Nick; great-grandchildren Olivia, Anna, and Derek, along with many nieces and nephews.
Divine Liturgy was held at St. Mary’s Ukrainian Church, Ford City.
The family wishes to thank Three Rivers Hospice, friends, and family that were graciously there for her care.

01/05/2026

Our condolences to the family of David R. Krizmanich who passed away on Sunday, January 4,2026.

David “Dave” R. Krizmanich, 75, of Kittanning was born on January 30, 1950 in Kittanning, PA to David and Frances (Contrael) Krizmanich. He passed away on January 4, 2026 in QLS Sugarcreek, Worthington, PA.
Dave grew up by the river in Dogtown. After graduating from Ford City High School in 1968, he honorably served his country in the US Navy during the Vietnam War. Following his military service, he built a long and dedicated career with PPG Industries in both Ford City, PA and Mt. Zion, IL from which he eventually retired. He was a proud member of the USW Glassblowers Union and served as the VP for a time.
Dave married Frances (Johns) Krizmanich on June 5, 1987 and enjoyed 27 years of marriage together. They resided in both McGrann, PA and Warrensburg, IL until Fran’s passing in 2015. He was a fan of all Pittsburgh sports, especially the Steelers. He loved casinos and scratch-off tickets, being at the beach and sunning by the pool. In his free time, he enjoyed listening to music, watching classic movies, and laughing at the Three Stooges.
Dave leaves behind his beloved children; Laura Thompson, Scott Scholl, Jennifer (brad) Middleton, and Jessica (Jordan) Cogsdill; his cherished grandchildren who were his pride and joy; Haley (Fiancé Tyler Swift) and Liam Thompson, Noah and Ellie Middleton, and Olive Cogsdill. He also leaves behind his sisters, Kathy Delaney and Claudia Yates; one brother Kevin Krizmanich; a number of nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.
David was preceded in death by his parents; his wife Frances (Johns) Krizmanich (of whom he deeply loved and missed); brother Dennis Krizmanich; and sister Francine Leard.
Family will receive friends on Wednesday, January 7, 2026 from 5 P.M.-7 P.M. in the Mantini Funeral Home, Inc., 701 Sixth Avenue, Ford City, PA 16226. Additional visitation will be held Thursday, January 8, 2026 from 9 A.M. until Time of Transfer Prayers at 9:30 A.M. in the funeral home. Mass of Christian Burial will be conducted on Thursday, January 8, 2026 at 10 A.M. in Christ, Prince of Peace Catholic Church. Burial will follow in St. Mary Cemetery, Ford City.

12/30/2025

Our condolences to the family of Sophie M. Krukar who passed away on Friday, December 26,2025.

Sophie M. Krukar, 94, of Ford City passed away peacefully on Friday, December 26,2025 in the Ridge at Heritage Meadows, with family by her side.Born on April 12,1931 in Kittanning, she was the daughter of the late Adam and Rose (Demetris) Porada. Sophie lived most of her life in Kittanning where she was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church. She later resided in Florida with her husband for nearly 20 years before returning home to Pennsylvania. She was a member of Christ, Prince of Peace Catholic Church in Ford City.She worked many years at Hiland Pharmacy. Sophie enjoyed gardening, antiquing, and creating stained glass pieces with her husband. She especially loved spending time at the beach, whether in Florida or North Carolina. Above all else, Sophie was devoted to her family.In addition to her parents, Sophie was preceded in death by her husband of 61 years, Joseph M. Krukar, daughter Karen Bechtold, and her siblings Agnes (Ervin) Soltis and John Porada. She is survived by her children: Valerie ( Edward) Huston of Ford City, Joseph (Jackie) Krukar of Kittanning, and son-in-law Charles Bechtold of Gulfport, FL. She is also survived by her grandchildren: Seth (Rebecca) Huston of Chapel Hill, NC, Kathleen (Jaison) Hartman of Ford City, Tyler ( Brittany) Krukar of Kittanning, Megan (Jared) Meyer of Ford City, and Hannah ( Joey Pietropaoli) Krukar of John-stown, Ian Bechtold of Gulfport, FL and Ethan “Max” Bechtold of Gulfport, FL. She was blessed with great- grandchildren Mitchell, Bailey, Adalai, Theodore, Sydney, Wyatt, Rylee,Hadlie, and Kade.Also surviving are her sister Mary Porada; her brother-in-law Pete (Pat) Krukar of FL; her sister-in-law Bella Magaro of NJ; along with many nieces, nephews, ex-tended family members and dear friends.

In accordance with Sophie’s wishes, all services were private.

12/29/2025

Our condolences to the family of Richard Petrosky, who passed away on December 25,2025 in QLS Sugarcreek, Worthington.

Richard D. “Red Dog” Petrosky,84, of Ford City passed away on Thursday, December 25,2025 in QLS Sugarcreek Nursing Home in Worthington.

Born on October 18,1941 in Apollo, he was the son of the late Francis and Helen (Polon) Petrosky. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army from 1962 until 1966.

Red Dog worked as a laborer at Allegheny Ludlum prior to his retirement. He was quite the character, always ready to tell you what he thought. A great outdoorsman who loved to fly fish, tying his own flies, and a hunter that loved the woods. His best vacation was going with his sons and lots of friends to Potter County.

Most of all, Red Dog dearly loved his family.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by granddaughter Shawna Petrosky in 2008; brother Sam Petrosky; and his sister Frances Petrosky Remis.

Red Dog is survived by his devoted wife Melanie (Schemela) Petrosky; sons, Eric ( Whitney) Petrosky, Brian (Bethann) Petrosky, Brett Jon (Maria) Petrosky, Jason (Ashley) Walker, and S. Benjamin (Kerri) Petrosky; daughter Sasha (Jeremy) James; grandchildren, Eric “ Bubba”(Jonna) Jr., Brianna, Brielle, Jonathan, Nathan (Natalie), Xavier, Jewlius, Phoenix, Maylee, Max, Clara, Jack, Jillian, and Archie (of whom he called “Willy”- since he gave a nickname to everyone he loved); his lifelong friends Dennis “Brains” Smith, and Harry “Smoky” Spang; many extended family members and good friends; and last but not least his little dog Tori.

There is so much more that could be said about Red Dog. His memory will be cherished by his family.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, January 2, 2026 11 AM in the Ford Cliff Firehall, 609 Neale Avenue, Ford Cliff, PA 16228.

12/15/2025

Our condolences to the family of Audrey J. Schmidt who passed away on Saturday, December 13,2025 in her home.

Audrey J. Schmidt,66, of McGrann, passed away peacefully surrounded by family in her home on Saturday, December 13,2025.

Born July 2,1959 in Kittanning, she was the daughter of the late John M. and Lucille M. (McCullough) Seyler.

Audrey was a lifelong resident of the Ford City area. Her time was pleasantly spent tending to children and grandchildren. She also enjoyed the Steelers and baking when she was inspired to do so. Her love for family and time spent with them was her focus.

Audrey is survived by husband David Schmidt of Applewold; daughter Julie Schmidt of McGrann; son Kevin Schmidt; her beloved grandchildren Hailey (Kyler Flowers) of Kittanning, Marley Placek, Kamryn Schmidt, Sienna Schmidt, and Jakobi Schmidt, all of Ford City; half-sisters Barbara Templeton and Claire Armitage, both of Kittanning; sisters Patricia (Gary) Bonner of Ford City and Sue Seyler of Orlando, FL; brothers Larry (Karen) Seyler of WV, Dave (Linda) Seyler of Kittanning and John Seyler of Ford City; wonderful sisters-in-law Linda, Pat, Pam, Nancy, and Sandy who provided much needed support during her illness; nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

Arrangements were private, and entrusted to Mantini Funeral Home, Inc., Ford City.

Donations may be made in her honor to Orphans of the Storm, PA-State Route 85, Kittanning, PA 16201.

12/12/2025

Our condolences to the family of Daniel E. Klingensmith who passed away in his home on Thursday, December 11,2025.

Daniel E. Klingensmith, 60, of Kittanning passed away unexpectedly in his home on Thursday, December 11,2025.
Born July 16,1965 in Kittanning, he was the son of the late Ronald W. and Helen (Milliron) Klingensmith.
Daniel worked for Eljer for a time then Trader Horn. He enjoyed listening to music, hunting in his younger years, and having a pig roast/ dual birthday celebration for him and his beloved daughter every summer.
Daniel lived quietly and enjoyed his time in quiet reflection and peace but mostly treasured his family time.
He is survived by his daughter Kira Klingensmith of Kittanning; grandchildren Raegyn, Ronin, and Journie; sisters Wendy (Michael) Holizna of Ford City and Robin (Kenneth) Roth of AZ; brothers Ronald Klingensmith of Ford City and Christopher (Heather) Klingensmith of Blairsville; extended family and friends.
All arrangements were private and entrusted to Mantini Funeral Home, Inc., Ford City.

12/08/2025

Our condolences to the family of Susan Lynn ( Guthrie) Culp who passed away on Monday, December 8,2025.

Susan Lynn (Guthrie) Culp, 70, of Ford City passed away in her home on Monday, December 8,2025.
Susan Guthrie Culp was born to Jane and Wesley Guthrie in 1955 in Cowansville, PA.
She cherished her children and granddaughter. She loved her dogs and they were her best friends and constant companions. Susan enjoyed gardening, especially flowers, and decorating her home. Her greatest joy was being a mom and raising her children.
Susan went to college obtaining her associate’s degree as a Medical Secretary and worked for over 20 years as a medical secretary.
Susan is survived by her beloved husband Chris Culp; her loving and cherished son Michael (Nicole) Crownover of whom she had an unbreakable bond; granddaughter Mallory Lynn (fiancé Caleb); and her canine best friends Josie and Lily Belle.
Susan was preceded in death by her daughter Melissa Lynn; parents Jane and Edward Warner (whom she considered her “Dad”); and brother Wesley J. Guthrie; and grandparents J.J. and Rhoda Porterfield.
Susan had deep faith in God and went Sunday School and church at West Glade Run Church as a young girl, then in later years to Brick Church Lutheran Church.
All arrangements were private and entrusted to Mantini Funeral Home, Inc., Ford City.

In Susan’s honor, donations may be made in her name to Orphans of the Storm, PA-85, Kittanning, PA 16201.

12/02/2025

Our condolences to the family of Thomas R. Clever who passed away on November 26,2025.

Thomas R. Clever,63, of Butler, formerly of Ford City passed away on Wednesday, November 26,2025 in Butler Memorial Hospital, Butler.

Born January 26,1962 in Kittanning, he was the son of the late James W. and Helen P. (Bonnett) Clever.

Tom was a chainsaw mechanic prior to his becoming disabled. He was a previous member of several private clubs, such as the C.U. Club in Ford City.

He enjoyed rebuilding mechanical things, riding his Harley, Bantam Fest, G-Fest, and Bowling.

In addition to his parents, Tom was preceded in death by his wife Theresa K. (Norton) Clever

In 2017.

He is survived by girlfriend Amber Griffin of Butler; brother Dennis (Deb Charmley) Clever of Darlington; nephew Shawn Clever of Ford City; nieces Courtney and Kylie Cotten; several great-nieces and great-nephews; his beloved fur children, canines Chevy, Missy, Sierra, Night Train, Cruze, and Malibu, and feline Straggler.

Visitation will be held on Friday, December 5,2025 from 2-4 and 6-8 in the Mantini Funeral Home, Inc., 701 Sixth Avenue, Ford City. Additional visitation will be held Saturday, December 6,2025 from 12 Noon until time of service in the funeral home at 1 P.M. with his cousin Pastor Joshua Webb as officiant.

Interment private.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the family to assist with funeral costs.

11/28/2025

Our condolences to the family of Eleanor Szymanski who passed away Wednesday, November 26,2025 in ACMH, Kittanning.

Eleanor Helen (Bator) Szymanski, 97, of Ford City passed away peacefully in ACMH on Wednesday, November 26,2025.

She was born July 11,1928 in Pittsburgh to Frank and Mary A. (Odrechowski) Bator.

Eleanor attended Ford City High School through her junior year. She married Frank “Lammie” Szymanski on February 9,1948. That marriage lasted 69 ½ years (until Frank passed away). They had three children, one daughter and two sons.

Eleanor was a member of St. Francis of Paola Catholic Church until it’s closing. She participated in the Perpetual Eucharist Adoration for many years and helped weekly with the counting of the offerings. She then joined Christ, Prince of Peace Church and remained faithful her whole life. She prayed daily and kept her prayer books with her rosary under her pillow.

Eleanor was a homemaker and a wonderful stay at home mom. She cared for both her parents until their deaths at age 89 and 90. She was a fantastic cook and baker (especially her Roski cookies). She was always very active, walking “uptown”, traveling to Atlantic City on bus trips, eating out, enjoying shopping adventures, playing Yahtzee at her kitchen table, feeding her chipmunks, playing poker with her family, and putting together puzzles. She made lifelong friends while bowling for Falcon Lanes, and had one perfect 300 score game.

Eleanor is survived by her beloved children, Carol (Donald) Swaney of Adrian, Thomas (Maureen) Szymanski of Manor Twp. and their son Lucas (Alexis), and Dan Szymanski of Kittanning and his children Hunter (Rachel) and Gavin (fiancé Jordin); great-grandchildren Kaisley and Kaden who were the light of her later years; her sister-in-law Marlene Szymanski who was her true and loyal friend; nieces, nephews and their extended family.

In addition to her parents, Eleanor was preceded in death by her cherished husband Frank “Lammie” Szymanski who was her one and only love; her brothers and their wives, George and Agnes Bator, and Ed and Helen Bator; her brothers -in-law Jimmy, Robert “Pee Wee”, and Leonard “Moon” Szymanski, along with his wife Bernice; niece Susan Bator; and nephews Ronnie and Jerry Bator.

Eleanor missed her family and friends and was ready to go to “Jeffrey’s (across the street) for years. Her family was glad she waited. We will miss and love her until our last breaths, when we will see her again. May God Bless Her and May She Rest in Peace.

Family will receive friends on Sunday, November 30,2025 from 2 P.M. until 4 P.M. in the Mantini Funeral Home, Inc., 701 Sixth Avenue, Ford City. Additional visitation will be held on Monday, December 1,2025 from 10 A.M. until time of transfer prayers at 10:30 A.M.

Mass of Christian Burial will be conducted in Christ, Prince of Peace Catholic Church on Monday, December 1,2025 at 11 A.M. with Father Madhu Kodavatikanti as officiant. Burial will follow at St. Francis Cemetery, Cadogan, beside her cherished husband Frank.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to her church, Christ, Prince of Peace Catholic Church, or to the charity of one’s choice.

11/28/2025

Our condolences to the family of Randall Reddinger who passed away peacefully in his home Thanksgiving morning, November 27,2025.

Randall “ Randy “ Reddinger, 73 of Ford City , a lifelong resident of Garretts Run and Shay
area, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his wife and daughter on November
27, 2025. He was born on November 28, 1951 in Ford City.
Randy graduated from Lenape Vo-tech in 1970. The following year he married Diana
Hartman Reddinger, in August of 1971. Together they shared more than 54 years of
marriage filled with love and partnership. Randy was the proud father of Marcie Reddinger
Baker and her husband Keith Baker. He is also survived by his brother Bradley Reddinger of
Kittanning, PA.
He was proceeded in death by his parents Earl J. Reddinger and Delores Westwood
Reddinger, his siblings, Joel Reddinger and Babbette Reddinger and his nephew Matthew
Reddinger.
Randy worked as mechanic for Surefire Wireline service until his retirement in 2015. Earlier
in his career he was employed as welder at Pullman Standard in Butler PA and at Bowrs
Caol as a mechanic.
An avid outdoorsman, Randy found joy in fishing, hunting and spending time at his camp in
Marienville PA. He served as Vice President of the Marienville Rod and Gun Club where he
was deeply involved in maintaining the fish hatchery and stocking streams throughout
Forest County. He especially loved watching children discover the excitement of fishing.
Randy also enjoyed the World of Outlaws sprint car racing, NASCAR, football and watching
Hallmark Christmas movies along with celebrating the Holiday season. He was a social
member of the Kittanning Twp Volunteer Fire Department where he lent a hand with fish
fries and turkey dinners. Among his favorite memories were fishing trips to Alaska with his
Good Friend Joe Rogers, adventures he often spoke fondly of while keeping a close eye on
the fishing and weather reports from Cooper Landing in Alaska.
Randy will be remembered for his devotion to his family and making sure the fish were
healthy at the hatchery which he and Joe spoke about almost daily. He will be deeply
missed by all that knew him.
At Randy’s request visitation will be private. In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations
be made to in his honor to the Marienville Rod and Gun Club, PO Box 631 Marienville PA
16239.

Address

701 6th Avenue
Ford City, PA
16226

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