Nell N. Slates, Shenango Township, passed away peacefully early Sunday (12-26-10) in UPMC Horizon Hospital, Greenville, with her daughters and grandchildren by her side.

Mrs. Slates was the daughter of the late Andrew and Anna Radas Validzich.

A lifelong area resident, she was a graduate of Farrell High School.

Early in her life, Nell was employed at the former Quaker Cleaners in Farrell. She and her husband Chuck later owned and operated the former Charles Albert Hotel in Farrell for many years.

Nell was a member of the former St. Ann Church, Farrell. She was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother and taught her children to appreciate the beauty in nature and to show kindness and compassion towards animals. She loved cats; the Cleveland Indians; Dancing with the Stars; and completing the Jumble puzzle everyday.

Nell was preceded in death by her son Gary Slates; her husband Charles 'Chuck' Slates; and three sisters, Pearl Validzich, Muggs Konnen and Kay Paczak.

Surviving are: two daughters, Sandy Roscoe and her husband John, Shenango Township; and Kathy St. George and her husband John, East Springfield, PA; two granddaughters, April Roscoe-Garfoli and her husband Ian, West Middlesex; and Anthony Roscoe, Shenango Township; two sisters, Ann Nemetz, Hermitage; and Lynn Fedorchak and her husband Steve, Farrell; and a brother, Joseph Validzich and his wife Sadie, Hermitage.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to Animal Advocacy, 285 Sherman Ave., Sharon, PA 16146.

Calling hours and service are private.

Friends may email condolences by visiting www.McGonigleFuneralHomeandCrematory.com.

Entombment: next to her son Gary in the mausoleum at Hillcrest Memorial Park, Hermitage.

Arrangements by J. Bradley McGonigle Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 1090 E. State St., Sharon.