Ralph Schugar Chapel, Inc.

11/23/2025

FRANCES "FRAN" (BABE) GREENBERG BERNSTEIN: Age 94, of Churchill, passed away peacefully on November 22, 2025.

Born on September 1, she was the daughter of the late Harry and Celia (Farber) Greenberg. Fran grew up in Pittsburgh and graduated from Peabody High School in 1949. Beloved wife of the late Leonard Bernstein; the cherished sister of the late Anne Harris, Rebecca Goldman, and Saul Greenberg, and adored grandmother of the late Lauren Bernstein.

Fran's proudest role was as a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, but she also worked in various retail businesses over the years. She loved to travel, exploring both the United States and around the world with favorites being Mexico, Israel, Italy, Russia and Singapore - and she shared her experiences through stories that brought her family closer together.

Known for her quick wit and remarkable memory, Fran served as her family's historian, ensuring that traditions, milestones, and connections were never forgotten.

Her greatest joys were her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren. Family and her faith were always at the heart of her life, and she leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and storytelling that will be treasured by all who knew her.

She is survived by her sons Gary (Lori) Bernstein and Bill (Debbie) Bernstein; grandchildren Celia (Gene) Livshin, David Bernstein, Ally (Bobby) Chajson, and Alec (Emily) Bernstein; and great-grandchildren Leni, Daphne and Caleb Livshin and Elle Chajson. She is also survived by her dear cousin, Shirley Bernstein, and will be lovingly remembered by her nieces, nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews, cousins, extended family, many friends and her beloved grand puppies - Rooney, Mishka, and Blue.

Services and Interment Private.

Her memory will forever be a blessing to all who knew and loved her.

The family requests that memorial contributions be made to Blood Cancer United.

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

11/18/2025

Lawrence (Larry) Levine, who celebrated his 100th birthday August 31, 2025, passed away November 17, 2025.

Larry, a man of few words, was a man of decisive action. Brave and tenacious, he was his family's anchor, a loyal friend, and a dedicated contributor to his community, providing support without judgement.

Survived by his loving children: Barbara Levine-Ritterman (Robin) of New Haven, CT, Harry Levine (Roberta Mintz) of Pittsburgh, PA, and Richard Levine (Leslie) of Pittsburgh; eight grandchildren: Alex Levine (Yvette Levine) of Pittsburgh, Sophia Levine of Hollywood, CA, Peter Levine of West Hollywood, CA, Casia Levine of East Hollywood, CA; CeeJay Levine of Morristown, VT, Lizz Levine Welhouse (Matt) of Waterford, MI; Maya Levine-Ritterman of Boston, MA, and Joshua Levine-Ritterman of New Haven, CT; and great-grandson, Kai James Levine Welhouse; his brother, Stanley (Patty) Levine, and many cousins, nieces and nephews. His beloved wife of 72 years, Claire Berland Levine, passed away in 2022.

Larry was born and raised in the Squirrel Hill neighborhood of Pittsburgh and graduated from Taylor Allderdice High School. His studies at Carnegie Tech were interrupted by WWII; he was drafted into the Army January 11, 1944. A year later, he was wounded behind German lines during the battles of the Colmar Pocket in Alsace, France. Larry made his way back to safety and was awarded a Purple Heart.

Upon his return to Pittsburgh, Larry continued engineering studies at Carnegie Tech. When his father, the late Harry Levine, developed Hodgkin's disease, Larry left Carnegie Tech to join the family business, Levine Bros. Hardware, in Homestead, PA. When his father passed away in 1952, he became a partner with his brother Stanley Levine, operating the business for more than 50 years. Larry and Stanley also managed their family's real estate holdings and collaborated with their cousins in developing the Duquesne Village Shopping Center in West Mifflin.

Larry was community oriented, serving in major roles with the Rotary Club, Steel Valley Arts Council, the Homestead Chapter of the National Association for Colored People, and the Homestead Economic Revitalization Committee. He was a founding member of Temple David in Monroeville.

Larry and Claire were politically engaged, participating in marches in support of civil rights and against the war in Vietnam. They were supporters of Planned Parenthood and the ACLU, among many other causes, and gave generously to many charitable and political entities. The couple enjoyed traveling, often with close friends, and visited Alaska, the Amazon, Antarctica, Israel, England, Ireland, France, Spain, Peru and India.

Larry was an Eagle Scout who pursued outdoor activities with enthusiasm. As a young man, he and his friend, Carl Levy, taught themselves to ski in Schenley Park by studying how-to books from Carnegie Library. He skied into his 80s and sailed into his 90s. Larry loved being with family and friends at the Conneaut Lake summer home he commissioned in the early 1960s. He recently celebrated his 100th birthday there.

Our heartfelt thanks to everyone whose love and care surrounded Larry throughout the final years of his life. May Larry rest in Peace.

Donations in Larry's honor may be made to Greater Pittsburgh Food Bank, Planned Parenthood, or the Jewish Community Center. Friends and family will be received at the Ralph Schugar Chapel Inc. for visitation at 12 noon on Friday, November 21, 2025 with the Funeral Service following at 1 PM. Interment will be at the Beth Shalom Cemetery directly after the service. www.schugar.com

11/09/2025

JACOB "JACK" MOSKOVITZ: On Sunday, November 9, 2025. Cherished brother of Sheila M. Lawrence and Brother-in-Law of Ken Lawrence. Jack was a 1965 graduate of Carnegie High School, and a 1970 graduate of Duquesne University, earning an M.Ed., also from Duquesne, in 1972. Jack worked on the staff of the Carlynton School System for more than 30 years. Graveside Service and Interment will be held on Tuesday, November 11, 2025 at 2 PM at Beth Shalom Cemetery. For access to the zoom, please call the funeral home at 412.621.8282. Contributions may be made to Congregation Ahavath Achim, 500 Chestnut Street, Carnegie, PA 15106. Arrangements entrusted to Ralph Schugar Chapel, Inc. www.schugar.com

11/09/2025

MATTHEW NOTOVITZ: On Monday, November 3, 2025; Beloved son of Frani (and loving Step Dad, Bob) Wyner of Monroeville, and Wes Notovitz. Loving brother of Samuel (Jane) Notovitz, Bob Notovitz, Jessica Wyner, and Sam (Brittany) Wyner. Cherished grandson of "Papa" Michael Sciulli and his beloved grandmother, the late Marta Sciulli. Matthew is also survived by loving Aunt Roz, Uncles, Stanley and Bernie Fudor, his godparents Barbara and Sam Klein. Matthew was a loving, kind, caring person. He was a warrior through his battle with Crohn's disease. He was loved by his brothers, and adored by his grandmother, Marta. She called him her "heart." Matthew had a beloved pet Mya, who saw him through his struggles. He never gave up fighting. Even in his worst days, he tried to find hope even when he felt defeated. His strength and courage was to be admired. He was always willing to help anyone at any time. He never wanted to disappoint anyone, he showed up even when he knew it was a bad day. He engaged in conversation even when he was at a loss of words, thoughts or concentration. He was wise beyond his years. He was loved and cared for by all. Services and interment were private. Contributions in memory of Matthew may be made to the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation, 6425 Living Place, Suite 200, Pittsburgh, PA 15206. Arrangements entrusted to Ralph Schugar Chapel, Inc. www.schugar.com

11/04/2025

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Barton Zalman Cowan, beloved husband, father, brother, grandfather, great grandfather and friend, who departed this life on November 2 at the age of 91.

Bart was born on March 3, 1934, in Cleveland, Ohio, the son of Milton J. and Clara (Umans) Cowan, both teachers. He attended the University of Michigan (Go Blue!) where he earned an economics degree with honors and played trumpet for the Michigan Marching Band, something he continued throughout his life marching with the alumni band at homecomings. After Michigan, Bart attended Harvard Law School, where he received his J.D. cm laude in 1958 and then served as an officer in the United States Air Force Judge Advocate General (JAG) Corps. He went on to join the Pittsburgh based law firm of Eckert, Seamans & Cherin (later Eckert, Seamans, Cherin & Mellott) in 1961, and worked with Alcoa and other Pittsburgh based companies, ultimately becoming the chief outside legal counsel for Westinghouse and involved in licensing nuclear power plants, as well as pioneering regulatory reform that led to advances in nuclear plant licensing. Bart was chairman of the lawyers committee of the Atomic Industrial Forum (AIF) and chairman of the Nuclear Management and Resources Council (NUMARC) and was the U.S. representative to the Board of Management of the International Nuclear Law Association (INLA). While at the firm, Bart was an adjunct professor for twelve years at several law schools including Duquesne University and following his retirement joined the faculty at West Virginia University College of Law.

Throughout his life, Bart found joy in serving others. He served on the board of the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra and served on the Board of Governors of the Hebrew Union College. His leadership was seen through his serving as President of Rodef Shalom Congregation and President of the AJC - American Jewish Committee among others.

Bart cherished most his wife Teri, to whom he was married for sixty-four years and was his best friend and confidant. Bart and Teri traveled extensively worldwide and yet almost never missed a Steelers game - a converted Browns fan to his brother Dale's chagrin. Bart was a devoted father to his three daughters, always making time to offer his guidance, love and support. He cherished his many friendships, loved playing golf and spending time with family on Hilton Head Island.

Bart was the loving husband of Teri Cowan, beloved father of Pamela (William Noll, deceased) Cowan, Cynthia (Philip) Stewart, Susan (Ronald) Kraft, brother of Dale (Susan) Cowan, grandfather of Allison Kraft, Julia Kraft, Jason Grant, Amy Kraft, Zea Stewart and Adina Stewart, and great grandfather of Aubrey Grant-Demarco.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, November 6, 2025 at 11 AM at Rodef Shalom Congregation, 4905 Fifth Avenue, Pittsburgh (Oakland). Visitation one hour prior to services (10 AM - 11 AM). Interment at West View Cemetery of Rodef Shalom Congregation. The family will sit shiva for friends and family on Thursday afternoon from 3 PM to 7 PM and on Friday from 1 PM to 4 PM. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Association for Autism and Neurodiversity (AANE), https://aane.org/donate.

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

11/01/2025

RHODA KRAMER YANUS: On Friday, October 31, 2025. Beloved wife of Irwin Yanus. Loving mother of Barbara Negrini and Amy Vaughan. Daughter of the late Harry and Rose Kramer of Wheeling, WV. Grandmother of Erica and Alex Negrini. Rhoda was a school history teacher for over 20 years. She enjoyed oil painting, and was an avid bridge player. Outside of her work, she devoted herself to charity work, being involved in the Organization for Rehabilitation and Training, and the Sisterhood of Temple Emanuel of Pittsburgh. Graveside Service and Interment will be held on Monday, November 3, 2025 at 1:30 PM at Mount Lebanon Cemetery - Temple Emanuel Section. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank (www.PittsburghFoodBank.org). Arrangements entrusted to Ralph Schugar Chapel, Inc. www.schugar.com

Ralph Schugar Chapel is proudly serving Pittsburgh's Jewish Community as an independently owned funeral home.

11/01/2025

DAN L. GARFINKEL: 75, of Pittsburgh, passed away on October 30, 2025, from Lewy Body Dementia. Beloved husband of Nancy Ackerman Garfinkel. Loving father of Benjamin (Jenna) Garfinkel and Eli Garfinkel. Son of the late Bertram Garfinkel and Margaret Garfinkel Weiner. Brother of Ellen (Daniel) Worthington and Karen Garfinkel, all of Cleveland, OH. Brother-in-law of Bill and Leslie Ackerman and Holli and Joe Novelly. Also survived by nieces and nephews.

Dan grew up in the Cleveland suburb of Pepper Pike - "before it became fashionable," as he loved to say. The middle child between two sisters, Dan shared an especially close bond with his older sister, Ellen Worthington. The two could send each other into uncontrollable laughter whenever they were together.

A graduate of Brandeis University with a degree in English Literature, Dan began his career in New York City as a junior editor at Viking Press. He later returned to Cleveland to work at the State Theater, promoting Jacques Brel Is Alive and Well and Living in Paris-a production that played a key role in the revitalization of Playhouse Square. The show was a major success. During that time, Dan collaborated with rock radio station WMMS-FM to promote the production, and soon after, station management persuaded their ownership to hire him as WMMS's first full-time Promotions Director.

At WMMS, Dan's creativity and attention to detail helped cement the station's legendary status as a rock-and-roll icon. He created logos, merchandise, and major listener events, always pushing for excellence. Known for his exacting standards, he earned the affectionate nickname "The Duck" for his habit of quacking out demands as deadlines approached.

Dan was also one of the founding members of the Cleveland International Film Festival, which continues to thrive today.

After leaving WMMS, Dan worked with McVay Media, a leading broadcast consulting company, and later with Dorsey & Co., a Fortune 1000 consulting firm, where he served as a "gun for hire."

In December 1989, a consulting trip to Pittsburgh changed his life. While working with a local radio station that was shifting formats from "elevator music" to adult contemporary, Dan met Nancy Ackerman, who was managing the sales department. Sparks flew immediately. Before leaving for Cleveland, Dan stepped into her office, closed the door, and declared, "I would like to court you." On their fourth date, he proposed, and six months later, they were married.

Dan went on to serve as Communications and Employee Relations Director at TCI Cable Company. After Comcast acquired TCI, he enjoyed time as a stay-at-home dad before returning to radio as a sales executive at WAMO-FM in Pittsburgh. He later became Director of the South Hills Jewish Community Center, a position he held until his retirement.

When Dan's illness could no longer be managed at home, he moved to Whitetail Springs in Whitehall, a Pittsburgh suburb. The family extends heartfelt thanks to the compassionate staff there for their exceptional care and kindness, and to Commonwealth Hospice for their support in Dan's final months.

Dan loved to cook, read nonfiction, watch the Penguins, and travel. Above all, he loved his family - his wife of 35 years, Nancy; his sons, Ben and Eli; and his daughter-in-law, Jenna. He was deeply grateful to have been able to attend Ben and Jenna's wedding in May of this year.

Dan's remains were donated to the ARDC at the University of Pittsburgh and to the Anatomic Gift Foundation for research and organ donation.

Dan was deeply loved and respected by all who knew him. He will be greatly missed.

Memorial Service at Temple Emanuel of the South Hills, 1250 Bower Hill Road, Mount Lebanon on Monday, November 3, 2025 at 4 PM. NO Prior Visitation.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to Temple Emanuel of the South Hills (Pittsburgh) or to Casa San Jose (casasanjose.org/en/donate).

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

10/13/2025

NANCY GUSKY: Age 83, of Mt. Lebanon, passed away surrounded by her family, on October 12, 2025, at 3:00 p.m.

Nancy (Atlas) Gusky was born on March 20, 1942, in Washington D.C. She is predeceased by her mother, the late Harriet (Pivowitz) Rosenbaum, stepfather, Phineas Rosenbaum and husband, Henry Gusky. Nancy grew up in Grand Rapids, MI, and later in Kalamazoo, MI. She attended the University of Michigan where, during her freshman year, she met her husband of over 58 years, Henry Gusky. They married on September 1, 1963, and lived first in Washington, PA, and then moved to Mt. Lebanon where they resided for over 50 years.

During the 1980's and 1990's Nancy and her close friends Carol Knox and Jane Decker operated a popular and successful catering business for 20 years, helping others to celebrate special occasions. Nancy spent considerable time and effort volunteering at several organizations, including her time as co-chair of Friends Indeed of the Pittsburgh section of the National Council of Jewish Women.

Nancy loved to entertain and cook and always had a house full of guests during holidays and celebrations. She made everyone feel welcome with her delicious home cooked meals and beautifully decorated tables. Nancy had a passion for gardening, always maintaining an elaborate and beautiful flower garden that was an oasis in the neighborhood. She loved designing colorful arrangements. Nancy was also an active bridge player and played twice a week until the very end.

With her late husband, Nancy shared a love of sports, rooting for her favorite University of Michigan and Pittsburgh sports teams, always making sure to watch her beloved Steelers. While she would cheer louder than anyone in the house, she often turned off close games because they made her too nervous.

She was a very social and loving person who had many lifelong friends from all stages of her life. Both Nancy and Henry were deeply devoted to their family, always putting loved ones first. They made sure to be present for both the big and small moments, the births of their grandchildren, birthday parties, and baby showers. Nancy was truly a wonderful and loving grandmother.

Nancy had an incredible strength about her. As a two-time breast cancer survivor, she was the epitome of resilience and positivity.

Nancy is survived by her sons, Edward Gusky (Halina) of Novi, MI, and Steven Gusky (Amy) of Vienna, VA, and grandchildren Oliver, Claire, Liev, Luka and Lucy.

Services at Temple Emanuel of the South Hills, 1250 Bower Hill Road, Mount Lebanon on Thursday, October 16, 2025 at 2 PM. Visitation one hour prior to service at Temple Emanuel (1 PM - 2 PM). Interment Mount Lebanon Cemetery-Temple Emanuel section.

To honor Nancy Gusky, in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Henry and Nancy Gusky Family Scholarship Fund at the University of Michigan:

https://giving.umich.edu/basket/fund/798942

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

09/23/2025

SUSAN KWELLER: (1941-2025) Age 84, passed away on September 21, 2025, at Canterbury Place after succumbing to a series of illnesses against which she struggled for years. Her amazing tenacity, strength and will to live carried her through medical challenges that few could have endured. She was truly a valiant fighter to the end.

Susan was born in Pittsburgh, Pa. on March 13, 1941, to Phyllis (Silverman) Lhormer and Sydney Silverman, who preceded her in death, as did her brother, Thomas N. Silverman. She was the beloved wife of Michael Kweller, and beloved mother of Amy (Larry) Nordby and Sherry (Daniel Berczik) Halsband. Susan's passing leaves an enormous void that cannot be filled for her family and her many dear and lifelong friends who knew her as "Susie". She was a vibrant cook, voracious reader, technical wizard with yarn crafts and a truly remarkable Mother, Wife, Friend and Teacher.

Services at Ralph Schugar Chapel, Inc., 5509 Centre Avenue, Shadyside on Thursday, September 25, 2025 at 11 AM. Visitation one hour prior to service (10 AM - 11 AM). Interment Beth Shalom Cemetery. www.schugar.com

09/16/2025

SUSAN HARDESTY: On Monday, September 15, 2025. Daughter of Inge Hamovitz and the late Neil Hamovitz. Loving mother of Alexis Hardesty. Cherished sister of Judi Hamovitz, Arnie (Christine) Hamovitz, and the late Dennis Hamovitz. Bubbie of Lennon Capellupo and Remy Capellupo. Also survived by nieces and nephew, Jameson, Mollie, and Jenn. Susan grew up in Pittsburgh, PA. She attended Taylor-Allderdice High School and Penn State University. She married the love of her life, Barry Hardesty and had a wonderful daughter, Alexis. She was a bubbie to Lennon and Remy, who were the absolute light in her life. Susan was a wonderful, vibrant woman and was cherished by everyone that crossed her path. After a long battle with cancer, she passed away surrounded by loving family. Susan will be missed everyday. Services at Ralph Schugar Chapel, Inc., 5509 Centre Avenue, Shadyside, on Thursday, September 18, 2025 at 2 PM. Visitation one hour prior to service (1 PM - 2 PM). Interment Cneseth Israel Cemetery. Contributions may be made to Susan G. Komen (komen.org) or any cancer research organization of your choice.

09/16/2025

JEFFREY SINGER: Age 70, of Mt. Lebanon, PA, passed away on Wednesday, September 10, 2025 while vacationing in North Myrtle Beach, SC -- his happy place. Jeffrey was born on February 2, 1955 to Pauline and Irving Singer, and was the nephew of Maurice (Marilyn) Grob and Frances (Thomas) Winland.

Jeffrey graduated from Peabody High School and the University of Pittsburgh. Public service was important to him, working as an EMT Paramedic Assistant for many years, and most recently for the Allegheny County Treasury Department before retiring. He enjoyed many activities including cooking and baking, basketball, watching the Steelers, and spending time in North Myrtle Beach.

He was preceded in death by his aunts, uncles, parents, and twin brother, Jerrold Singer, and is survived by his daughter Rachael Singer and her mother, Roberta Gerson, brothers David (Ilene) Singer and Fred (Carol) Singer, numerous nieces and nephews, and best friend Bobbie Jo Comes.

Services at Ralph Schugar Chapel, Inc., 5509 Centre Avenue, Shadyside on Wednesday, September 17, 2025 at 1 PM. Visitation one hour prior to service (12 Noon - 1 PM). Interment Mount Lebanon Cemetery. Shiva will be held at Jeffrey's home following burial.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Association, www.4hcm.org.

09/14/2025

PHYLLIS MARCUS TAUBERG: On Sunday, September 14, 2025; beloved wife of the late Norman B. Tauberg; loving mother of Stuart (Beth) Tauberg and James Tauberg. Sister of the late Murray Marcus. Survived by sisters-in-law Rita Tauberg, Shirley Blau, and Roberta Tepper. Devoted grandmother of Alex Tauberg (Holly Donovan) and Mindy Tauberg (Scott Hollingsworth). Proud great-grandmother of River Hollingsworth. Also survived by many loving nieces and nephews. The family expressess their heartfelt thanks and eternal gratitude to Phyllis' caregivers, Laurie Vaughn, Shonte Hinton, Keisha Smith and Ashaki Rattliff for their love, care and devotion. Services at Ralph Schugar Chapel, Inc., 5509 Centre Avenue, Shadyside on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, at 3:00 PM. Visitation one hour prior to services (2-3 PM). Interment West View Cemetery of Rodef Shalom Congregation. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to a charity of the donor's choice.

Ralph Schugar Chapel is proudly serving Pittsburgh's Jewish Community as an independently owned funeral home.