John Summers – Rostraver Township
Obituaries
November 1, 2025

John Summers – Rostraver Township

ROSTRAVER TOWNSHIP John Summers, 54, of Rostraver Township, beloved father, grandfather, son, unc le, brother, and friend, passed away suddenly on Oct. 29, 2025, a t Penn Highlands Mon Valley. Born in New Eagle, he graduated from Ringgold High School in 1989 and later served in the United States Navy. He went on to work as a mechanic at RTS in Charleroi, where he took pride in his skill and dedication. A proud and passionate Pittsburgh Steelers and Penguins fan, John never missed a game and cheered with a spirit that filled the room. He held a lifelong connection to the Salvation Army, where he treasured his memories at Camp Allegheny, later returning as a counselor to give back to the place that shaped him. Curious by nature, John had a remarkable gift for understanding how things worked. He built computers from scratch, repaired electronics and took pride in fixing nearly anything put in front of him. He also loved gardening, bargain hunting and collecting items he believed to hold value and history. Known for his generosity, quick sense of humor and stubborn streak, John lived life on his own terms and always tried to help others when he could. He found steady comfort in his loyal dogs, Princess and Bruno, who brought light and companionship to his days. John leaves behind memories as bold, spirited and unforgettable as he was. He is survived by his former wife, Linda Knappenberger, with whom he shared his children, Todd Summers and Jamey (Brandon) Lennex; grandchildren, Beonca Jarvis, Brennon Lennex, Raquel Jarvis, Avalynn Lennex and Aaron Summers; his mother, Dorthy Summers; siblings, Charles Summers, Elaine Lessman, Jacqueline Summers, Dorthy Summers and Jeanie Summers; an aunt, Carol Richards; and several nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his father, James Summers Sr.; a brother, Jimmy Summers Jr.; his grandparents, Hazel Cooper and Edgar Cooper Sr.; aunts and uncles, Shirley Hollerich, Myrtle Bradshaw, Bonnie Cooper, Bernice Pelzer, Thomas Cooper, Charles Cooper, Donald Cooper and Edgar Cooper Jr.; and his grandson, James Summers. His presence may be gone, but the mark he left on our lives will remain forever.

Family honors mom’s legacy of kindness by continuing her bracelet ministry
Latest News, Main
By TAYLOR BROWN, Senior Reporter 
May 9, 2026
Before her passing last year, Hazel Brock Rone began making bracelets and giving them away to spread kindness and love. At Anthony E. Madison Sr. Veterans Memorial Park in Monessen, Valerie Osborne st...
BVA’s mock prom crash confronts real-life consequences
Latest News, Main
By LADIMIR GARCIA lgarcia@yourmvi.com 
May 9, 2026
About 400 Belle Vernon Area students attended the annual drill to raise awareness of driving impaired. On Friday, hundreds of Belle Vernon Area High School students stood in silence as they watched fi...
Pa. Senate votes to end auto emission inspections
Latest News, Main
May 9, 2026
The Senate bill faces much stiffer odds in the Democratic-majority state House. By Pennlive.Com The state Senate this week passed a bill that would end Pennsylvania’s emissions inspection program for ...
McKeesport bar to honor employee killed in 5-car crash
Around The Valley, Latest News, Main
May 9, 2026
Danielle (Dani) Jackman worked part-time as a cook at Smitty’s Place. For the MVI The victim in a deadly crash in Pittsburgh was a beloved part-time cook at Smitty’s Place in McKeesport. “I was with D...
I-70 crash snarls traffic
Around The Valley, Latest News, Main
May 9, 2026
Fallowfield Township firefighters and state police were called to a multi-vehicle crash on I-70 west at the Lover exit shortly after 4 p.m. Friday. The highway was restricted to one lane while crews c...