Rita A. Balsano – Charleroi

By Mon Valley Independent

Rita A. Balsano

Rita A. Balsano, 74, of Charleroi passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family Wednesday, April 19, 2023. Born on Oct. 11, 1948, she was the daughter of the late Charles and Bruna (Carcella) Backo. She was formerly a waitress at The Maples and was a member of the Charleroi American Legion and the Belgian Club. Rita is survived by her sons, Charles Balsano and wife Colleen of Belle Vernon, Dennis Balsano of Pittsburgh, and Troy Balsano and wife Heather of Charleroi; grandchildren, Chaz, Madison and Maggie; step-grandchildren, Shannon, Brady, Eric, Andrew and Amanda; five great- grandchildren; and sisters, Janet Dacko of Charleroi, and Charlotte Dacko and husband William of Charleroi. In addition to her parents, she is predeceased by her long-time companion, Merle Cassatt. Private services will be held for the family. Interment will be at Sacred Heart Cemetery. Arrangements are entrusted to CARL J. SPALLINO FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATION, Charleroi, Joseph A. Lopez, funeral director. Online condolences may be sent to www.spallinofuneralhome.com.

Latest News, Main

Monessen police host holiday car show

September 8, 2026

The Monessen Police Department hosted an all-vehicle car show and food truck rally on Saturday at the Herman Mihalich Memorial Boat Launch. Shown at the event are Mayor Ron Mozer and police officers S...

Latest News, Main

It’s all about the food and music at the Renzie Rib Fest

September 8, 2026

Despite a delayed start due to the weather, the Labor Day weekend tradition at Renziehausen Park drew large crowds the last few days for food and music. Story by MICHAEL VINSICK mvinsick@yourmvi.com P...

Latest News, Main

Donora to host 9/11 rededication ceremony at Palmer Park trail

By MICHAEL VINSICK mvinsick@yourmvi.com

September 8, 2026

A section of a walking trail will be named in honor of native Larry Senko, who lost his life in the 9/11 World Trade Center attack. The 25th anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks will have specia...

Latest News, Main

These cases could reshape the way Pa. treats users who are accused of supplying drugs in fatal overdoses

September 8, 2026

Spotlight PA is an independent, nonpartisan, and nonprofit newsroom producing investigative and public-service journalism that holds power to account and drives positive change in Pennsylvania. Sign u...

Around The Valley, Latest News, Main

Open house set at Club Serenity’s new drop-in center

By TAYLOR BROWN, Senior Reporter

September 8, 2026

Club Serenity, Inc. will host an open house for its SUD Drop-In Center from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday. A hot meal. A shower. Clean clothes. A cup of coffee. An address where an important piece of mai...

Around The Valley, Latest News, Main

Marina mishap

September 8, 2026

Stockdale firefighters and RESA police were called to the Allenport Marina shortly before 7:30 p.m. Saturday as a vehicle went over the hillside and onto the docks, striking a gas pump. There were no ...