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Bertha A. Gatta 1924-2025

NILES — Bertha A. Gatta, 101, passed away peacefully, Wednesday, Oct. 22, 2025, at Shepherd of the Valley-Liberty. Her long and well-lived life was a testament to family, faith and hard work.

Bertha was born March 3, 1924, in Monessen, Pa., to the late Steven and Teresa Serzersen Talego. She attended McDonald High School and, demonstrating the strong spirit of her generation, contributed to the war effort during World War II by working at McDonald Steel.

On Aug. 31, 1946, she married the love of her life, Lawrence J. Gatta, who preceded her in death on Jan. 30, 2022. Together, they built a beautiful family.

After her children had grown, Bertha reentered the workforce, where she enjoyed her time working in local hospitality at establishments including Jerry’s Inn, The Living Room and Cherry’s Top of the Mall.

A woman of deep faith, Bertha was a devoted member of St. Pope John XXIII Parish-Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church in Niles and was actively involved in the Catholic Women’s Guild.

Bertha had a zest for life and cherished her favorite pastimes. She loved the challenge and camaraderie of playing cards, had a talent for cooking that brought her family together and looked forward to wintering in Florida to escape the Ohio cold.

Bertha’s legacy is carried on by her five devoted children, sons, Larry Gatta (Denise) of Niles, Joseph Gatta (Donald) of Pittsburgh and Robert Gatta (Becky) of McDonald; and daughters, Carole Sidor (Tom) of Niles and Linda O’Donnell (Chuck) of Youngstown.

She will be profoundly missed by her 11 grandchildren, Jeff Sidor, Mark Sidor, Brett Gatta, Kaitlin Bailey, Nick Gatta, Mike Gatta, LeighAnn Marino, and Aidan, Brent, Jorian and Evan Hammond; nine great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren.

In addition to her parents and husband, Bertha was preceded in death by her beloved grandson, JoJo Kish; and her siblings, brothers, John and Frank Telego; and sisters, Mary Sudol, Ann Colburn, Sophie Rosko and Katherine Luknis

Bertha’s long life was full of love, dedication and service. She will be remembered for her strength, her faith, and the enduring warmth she brought to all who knew her.

Friends may call 9 to 10:30 a.m. Tuesday at Joseph Rossi and Sons Funeral Home in Niles.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be 11 a.m. Tuesday at St. Pope John XXIII Parish-Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church in Niles, preceded by a 10:30 a.m. prayer service at the funeral home.

Burial will be in Niles City Cemetery.

Memorial contributions can be made to The Project 20/20 Campaign at St. Pope John XXIII Parish-Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church, 381 Robbins Ave., Niles, OH 44446; or St. Pope John XXIII-Our Lady of Mount Carmel St. Vincent de Paul Society, 381 Robbins Ave., Niles, OH 44446.

Arrangements are being handled by Joseph Rossi and Sons Funeral Home in Niles. Family and friends can visit www.josephrossifuneralhome.com to view this obituary and send condolences to Bertha’s family.

(special notice)