Mr. Earl Wendall Jordan, Jr.
It is with great love and sadness that we pay tribute to the life of Mr. Earl Wendall Jordan Jr., who passed away peacefully, Tuesday, October 22, 2024, at 1:18 a.m., at the age of 81.
Earl was a great man who lived by the principles he instilled in those around him: "Walk with your shoulders squared, look ‘em straight in the eye, and don’t split a verb." He believed in commanding respect through both action and presence. His wisdom also extended to communication, often reminding us that "Good communication brings forth clear understanding and mutual confidence." One of his favorite poems captured his philosophy on life, reminding us of the brevity of our journey and the importance of kindness:
"Life is like a journey on a train, with two fellow passengers sitting at each window pane. Now, I may sit here the whole journey through; or I could sit elsewhere, never really knowing you. But should Fate choose me to side by your side… let’s be pleasant travelers. It’s such a short, short ride." —Unknown Author
Earl's gregarious spirit impacted every community he called home, from Los Angeles to Las Vegas, and eventually back to his hometown of Pittsburgh. In Pittsburgh, he became a beloved bus driver for children with special needs and volunteered five years to work with cancer patients, a role for which he received many accolades for his service. His kindness, humor, and generosity of spirit made him a treasured figure in these communities, always brightening the lives of those he encountered.
His career as a salesman was just as distinguished, and his charisma and tenacity earned him numerous awards as a top salesman. Earl’s gift for connecting with people was undeniable—his warm smile, friendly compliments, and genuine interest in others made everyone feel seen and valued. Even in his final days at Shadyside Hospital, he continued to touch the lives of those around him. The hospital staff, from various departments, would frequently visit him, offering care and comfort, drawn by the same magnetic warmth that had made him a beloved figure throughout his life.
Earl is survived by his many children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. His children include Jodi Jordan-Tariq, (Hakim Tariq), Kareem Jordan Sr., Michael Totaro (Amy), Wendy Lynn Totaro, Antoine Germany, Radell Germany, and Derrick Germany. He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren: Jawhara Tariq (Elliot O’dea), Tajah Tariq, Christina Cullen, Mojave Sole Jordan, Kareem Jordan Jr., Skye Jordan, Michelle Edwards, Maina Germany, and Angelina; along with great-grandchildren, Zarek Edwards, Zuriel Edwards, as well as many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends. Special mention goes to Wookie, the beloved family pup.
Rest in peace, Dad. We know you are reunited with Grandma Tucker, Grandma Corrine, and the many loved ones who came before. We also hope you made your way to Ida Jean (Collins) Totaro, his loving wife of 31 years, who passed two weeks prior. We will always admire you and Ida’s “two peas in a pod” approach to love and companionship, and hope you are dancing in and watching the Price is Right on a reclining chair, with Sammy your dog next to you both.
Service and Interment private.
Edmund Eugene “Ed” Leonette
Passed away Thursday, October 17, 2024. A native Pittsburgher and proud of his Italian roots, Ed grew up in the Larimer neighborhood and later moved to Penn Hills with his new family. He went to Westinghouse High School, Robert Morris College, and served in the Army National Reserve. He was actively involved in the Knights of Columbus and his church, St. John The Fisher. As an accountant, Ed worked for the City of Pittsburgh and various local companies. He also maintained a private accounting practice which he continued to operate until his death.
Ed’s wife Rose Marie Leonette preceded him in death. They were married for 53 years. He is survived by his sisters, Theresa Sicuro and Elizabeth Foley; his children and their partners, John Leonette and Bill Yates, Frank and Kellie Leonette, Michelle Leonette and James Stitt; his granddaughter Giavanna Stitt; honorary family member, Amy Hart; and his girlfriend Arlene Eathorne.
Everyone who met Ed, experienced his kind, loving, and generous manner. He put other’s needs and desires ahead of his own, finding happiness and fulfillment through their joy and achievements. He was truly one of a kind. He loved life, his family, people, and numbers. Dancing, jazz, golf, cars, and, vino. He liked to travel and always arrived with an open heart. He never failed to “run into” someone he knew anywhere he was in the world. He was often referred to as “the Mayor”. He adored his family and friends, being the one they relied on for advice and compassion. When you were Ed’s friend, you became “la familia”. As he’d say, “once you’re in, you’re in.”
Friends and Family received in the William F. Gross Funeral Home, Ltd. 11735 Frankstown Road (at Rodi Road) Penn Hills on Monday, October 21, 2024 from 2-4 and 6-8 and Tuesday, October 22, 2024 from 2-4 and 6-8. Funeral Prayers will be held at the funeral home on Wednesday, October 23, 2024 at 9:20 a.m. followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at St. Joseph the Worker Parish, St. John Fisher Church, 33 Lewin Road, Churchill, PA 15235 at 10 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial donation to St. Jude Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105, Sons Of Italy Foundation, 219 E Street NE, Washington, DC 20002, or to Knights Of Columbus Charities, Inc., 1 Columbus Plaza, New Haven, CT 06510.
"The life you have left is a gift. Cherish it. Enjoy it now, to the fullest. Do what matters, now." - Leo Babauta
Douglas K. Abbey
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Douglas K. Abbey. Age 55 of Verona, PA, formerly of Syracuse, NY. He passed away suddenly Thursday, October 10, 2024. He is preceded in death by his grandparents Kenneth and Edna Abbey and Pop, James Maloney. He is survived by his wife Michelle Abbey, mother Cheryl Maloney, sister Donalea Maloney, aunt Rachele Scarlett, niece Jordyn Maloney, and stepchildren Kirstie and Rachel. He is also survived by numerous cousins who will cherish his memory forever.
Interment private. A celebration of his life will be held at a later date in Syracuse, NY. In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial donation to Friends Forever Animal Rescue, 174 Gristwood Rd., Pennellville, NY 13132.
Rest in peace Douglas. You will forever be in our hearts. Your memory will live on.
John J. “Whiskers” Pruski
Age 88, of Penn Hills, passed away peacefully, Monday, October 14, 2024. Beloved husband of the late Barbara; father of Lori (Glenn) Reis, Dan Pruski, JoAnn Patchan, Amy (Eric) Lowe, and the late Donna Lewis and Sue McKeever. Also survived by numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and his puppy dog Aries. Whiskers was a truck driver for 53 years and worked for numerous companies including J.P. Graham, PVO Express, Inc., Moore-Fletcher, and Thompson and Company Trucking.
Service and interment private
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Joseph “Pedro” A. Asturi
Age 59, of Pittsburgh, passed away Sunday, October 13, 2024. Beloved father of Brittni Asturi and Ashley (Ryan) Kelly; grandfather of Jordyn, Dominic, Demi, Jayden and Kenzie; brother of Maria (Rich) Berger, Lisa (Jeff) Corcoran and Gina (Sean) Burkett; son of the late Anthony Asturi and Jane Galassi; also survived by many nieces and nephews.
Friends and Family received in the William F. Gross Funeral Home, Ltd. 11735 Frankstown Road (at Rodi Road) Penn Hills on Friday October 18, 2024 from 10 a.m. until the time of the blessing service at 11 a.m.