Steve D. Vella

Vella, Steve D., 88, of Richland. Died March 17, 2013, at Memorial Medical Center. Born Feb. 19, 1925, in Bradenville, PA. Son of the late Steve Sr. and Philomena (Mustacchio) Vella. Also preceded in death by wife, Mary C. (Lori) Vella; son, Mark Vella; brothers, Joseph Vella, Augustine DeBacco, Sam Vella and sister, Florence DeBacco. Survived by sons; David Q., married to the former Susan Milavec, Elton; and Joseph A., married to the former Donna Zima of Lake Worth, FL; and good family friend, Larry Kauffman.
Member of St. Benedict Catholic Church, Geistown. During WWII, Steve served in the Navy aboard the USS St. Louis CL-49.  Steve was a barber for many years in Woodvale and Moxham.  He was an avid outdoorsman, who enjoyed both hunting and fishing.  He was a friendly, pleasant man who knew how to enjoy the simple pleasures of life, and the company of his family and many dear friends.  He taught us that in order to live life well, you need to do the things that are “good for your soul”, putting people ahead of “things”. Friends received from 2-4 and 6-8 PM Wednesday at the Harris Funeral Home, 500 Cherry Lane, Richland, where Vigil service will be held. Funeral Mass will be held at 10:30 AM Thursday at St. Benedict Church. Fr. David S. Peles, Pastor. Committal at St. Anthony Cemetery, Geistown, with military rites by Conemaugh Valley Detachment, Marine Corps League. (Online condolences may be posted to www.wharrisfuneralhome.com)