In Memory & In Honor

Focus On Renewal has dedicated this section of our website to celebrating the lives of those who continue to inspire and support our mission through donations made in their memory or in their honor. This tribute page will serve as a testament to their legacy and the positive impacts they have made in your life, in our organization, and in our community.

Should you wish to have your beloved remembered or to honor someone with a donation in their name, we invite you to share their name, as well as a photograph and a few sentences about them to be featured on this page.

Thank you for your support and for considering this opportunity to celebrate a remarkable life. Your loved one’s legacy is a beacon of hope and generosity that continues to illuminate the path for many.

To make a memorial or tributary donation, contact
Kevin Platz, Executive Director
412-331-1685 ext. 348 or kplatz@@forstorox.org

In Memory

Father Don Fisher

Father Don was one of the founding members of Focus On Renewal and served as our organization’s first Director.  Whether fighting to implement and then keep much needed human services in Sto-Rox, working to create new programs most responsive to the community’s needs, or serving as “resident potter” at the Father Ryan Arts Center, Father Don remained a steadfast advocate and voice for our community.  Although Father Don passed in 2017, Focus On Renewal continues to receive memorial contributions in his name.  These contributions are a true testament to his legacy that is Focus On Renewal.

“Local problems will always be encountered and must be dealt with, using all the professional or organizational expertise we can muster. Programs have to be developed, money must be sought, and plans must be drawn for the future. This is part of the struggle.

But a word has to be spoken, a stance must be maintained, and a continual story must be told by each person.”

– Father Don Fisher
""

Phyllis Seibert

Phyllis Seibert was one of the founding members of Focus On Renewal and served in many capacities from 1969 until her passing in 2014.

Phyllis began as a volunteer in 1969 in the early years of the FOR with Father Fischer and Sister Paulette.  She also worked along side of Father Ryan and Sister Ruth.  Phyllis served on the FOR Board of Directors and was on the ground floor of getting the health center established.  Through her work at Focus On Renewal, Phyllis always exhibited her care for community residents.  She managed the FOR’s Energy Assistance and Senior Outreach Programs.  Her work with the Senior Program enabled her to visit seniors and delivery groceries.  Phyllis truly enjoyed and loved the many years she spent serving the citizens of McKees Rocks at Focus On Renewal.

This memorial and contribution was made by Phyllis Seibert’s daughter, Mary Helen Wears. 

forget-me-not-flowers

John and Mary Ozanich

A memorial contribution was made by daughter, Katherine Ozanich.

Theresa Reichl & Rita Keintz Mullen

A memorial contribution was made by Marcia Conley.

In Honor

Father Regis Ryan

Father Regis Ryan dedicated over 37 years to serving the McKees Rocks community as the Executive Director of Focus On Renewal.  Under his leadership, Focus On Renewal became a vital resource, providing essential programs that fostered resilience and opportunity. His unwavering commitment to social justice and community empowerment shaped our organization’s mission, ensuring that residents had access to support, advocacy, and enrichment. Even after his retirement, Father Ryan has remained a guiding force, leaving a lasting legacy of compassion and service.

Donations made in his honor continue to support the programs he championed, sustaining his vision for a thriving, connected community.

In honor of Father Ryan, contributions have been made by:

Bruce Zewe

Ms. Marilyn Sullivan