Ronald ‘Chub’ Podwika – formerly of Charleroi
Obituaries
January 2, 2019

Ronald ‘Chub’ Podwika – formerly of Charleroi

By obits

We’re sad to announce the passing of Ronald “Chub” Podwika. He went home to be with the Lord surrounded by his family on Friday, Dec. 28, 2018. Born Oct. 8, 1937, Ronald just recently moved to New Bern, N.C. but lived his entire life in Charleroi. He attended Charleroi High School, where he met the love of his life, Carol Colson, and graduated in 1955. He played all sports in high school and received a full football scholarship to North Carolina State University. He started as halfback all four years and was an integral part of the 1957 ACC Championship Team. After graduating college in 1960, with a Bachelor of Science degree, he returned to Charleroi and was employed at Page Steel for 12 years in Monessen. During this time, he started his family with Carol, and celebrated the arrival of son, Ron and daughter, Rachel. He later worked at Corning Glass Works in Charleroi until he retired in 2000. After retirement, he was actively involved in the community of Fallowfield Township on the municipal board. Ron enjoyed traveling and visiting his family in Wheeling and New Bern. He also spent his winter months in Florida with close and beloved friends each year. Ronald is survived by his wife of 60 years, Carol; his son, Ron Michael Podwika and wife Diane and their daughters, Alyssa King (husband Ryan) and Sydney Podwika; his daughter, Rachel Thompson and husband, Tim and their daughter, Grace. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Donald and Miles. He will forever be remembered as a gentle, kind, funny, loving and caring husband, father, grandfather and friend. There will be a private family memorial. Arrangements are by COTTEN FUNERAL HOME, New Bern, N.C. The family would like to invite you to view and or share memories of Chub at www.cottenfuneralhome.com

Charleroi glassmaking memories buried in time capsule
Latest News, Main
By TAYLOR BROWN, Senior Reporter 
December 2, 2025
Former Corelle workers were joined by public officials for an emotional ceremony in Charleroi. Charleroi stood in the cold Monday in Meadow Avenue Park to say goodbye to the plant that shaped its peop...
Kennel contract renewed despite public objections
Around The Valley, Latest News, Main
ELIZABETH TOWNSHIP
By SARAH PELLIS spellis@yourmvi.com 
December 2, 2025
The new agreement with Hoffman Kennels will run for one year. Elizabeth Township commissioners renewed a contract with Hoffman Kennels for one year for deer removal and dog control services despite so...
Season’s first big snowfall hits Mon Valley, western Pa.
Latest News, Main
By LADIMIR GARCIA lgarcia@yourmvi.com 
December 2, 2025
The worst part of the storm is forecast for today’s morning commute. The first big snowfall of the season hit Western Pennsylvania on Tuesday morning, coating the ground and roadways. Speed limits hav...
Elizabeth Twp. hydrant replaced after failing during fire
Latest News, Main
By SARAH PELLIS spellis@yourmvi.com 
December 2, 2025
Pennsylvania American Water installed the new hydrant Monday and submitted the broken one to the manufacturer. Pennsylvania American Water has replaced a fire hydrant on Dillon Road in Elizabeth Towns...
Annual McKeesport Festival of Trees opens Thursday
Around The Valley, Latest News, Main
December 2, 2025
The long-running holiday celebration will feature dozens of decorated trees. By the MVI Renziehausen Park’s Jacob Woll Pavilion will be converted into a village of Christmas trees this week, which is ...
Two-vehicle crash in Charleroi
Around The Valley, Latest News, Main
December 2, 2025
Charleroi Fire Department responded Monday night to a collision involving two cars at Fifth and Washington Avenue in Charleroi. Charleroi FIre Department