Gertrude R. (Repovz) Lavella

Gertrude R. Lavella, 88, of Herminie, passed away peacefully Wednesday, Dec. 27, 2017, at her daughter Susan's home, where she resided the past seven years. She was born Dec. 12, 1929, in Herminie, daughter of the late Frank and Mary (Arch) Repovz. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Patrick A. Lavella; granddaughter, Lena Bliss; and two brothers, William and Robert Repovz. Prior to her retirement, she worked for the US Postal Service for more than 25 years. Gert was a member of St. Edward Church, the S.N.P.J. Lodge 87 and the VFW Post 8427 Ladies Auxiliary, all located in Herminie. After retirement, she enjoyed volunteering at the Westmoreland Hospital Gift Shop. Gert is survived by her son, Brian J. (Kim) Dubovsky, of Clairington; two daughters, Diane M. Dubovsky, of Virginia, and Susan M. (David) Guerrieri, of Herminie; four special grandchildren, Rachel Johnson, Courtney Guerrieri, Brian (Tara) Guerrieri and Tiffany (Tony) Bale; six special great-grandchildren, Chloe, Isabella, Ava, Hunter, Hailey and Nico; a sister-in-law, Jennie Lavella, of Herminie; several nieces and nephew and great-nieces and great-nephews. It's a day of sadness but also one of joy to know she is finally at peace and rest and has left us with many warm and wonderful memories of her life. There will be no public visitation. As per Gert's wishes, she donated her body to the University of Pittsburgh Medical School for medical education and research programs in Pennsylvania. A memorial mass to celebrate her life will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, Jan. 12, in St. Edward Church, Herminie. JOSEPH W. NICKELS FUNERAL HOME INC., 404 Sewickley Ave., Herminie, PA 15637, 724-446-7251 in charge of arrangements. In lieu of flowers, we ask that you make a donation in remembrance of Gert to the Cure Alzheimer's Fund, 34 Washington St., Suite 200, Wellesley Hills, MA. To send online condolences, please visit www.nickelsfuneralhomeinc.com.

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