Lawrence coroner's race features prominent names

Both candidates say they are well qualified to deal with families in crisis.
By NANCY TULLIS
VINDICATOR NEW CASTLE BUREAU
NEW CASTLE, Pa. -- Two young men whose families and funeral businesses are well-known in Lawrence County are seeking the Democratic nomination for county coroner.
Because there is no Republican candidate in Tuesday's primary election, the winner is almost certain of being elected in November.
Russell Noga
Russell Noga is acting coroner and was deputy coroner from 1991 to 2001. His father, J. Russell Noga, was Lawrence County coroner for 18 years.
Noga said his family business experience and his eight years of service as a paramedic have taught him to effectively deal with families in crisis, something the coroner must do.
"The experience, knowledge and insight I have gained give me the ability to make difficult decisions," Noga said. "I have spent my entire adult life serving and helping people in times of need. I feel the coroner's office is another way to use my knowledge and experience to help the families understand what has happened and to speak for those who can no longer speak for themselves."
Noga said he is certified by the Pennsylvania Coroner's Education Board and takes yearly continuing education courses to maintain those qualifications.
"I feel the position of coroner should be filled by the most experienced, qualified candidate," Noga said. "I have proven my ability to be the coroner through my continuing service to the people of Lawrence County."
Roger M. DeCarbo Jr.
Roger M. DeCarbo Jr. said his experience as a funeral director equips him to handle the emotional stress of families in a time of great loss, while his degree in finance will allow him to understand and appropriate a proper coroner's budget and stay within that budget.
He plans to reapportion funds in the budget to ensure the most cost effective and efficient use of funds needed in investigations. He plans to use resources at his disposal through his profession to reduce waste and duplicate spending.
DeCarbo said he is the first in his family to seek the coroner's post. His father, Roger M., is a county commissioner but is not seeking re-election.
"This position has been a personal and professional dream of mine for half of my life," DeCarbo said. "My experiences as a funeral director, counseling families, and my familiarity with all necessary aspects of handling the affairs of the deceased are invaluable."
DeCarbo said he won't run the coroner's office as an extension of his family's business. He plans to redefine the role of the coroner as a public servant and emphasize the coroner's office is a public safety office.
"I will be an involved coroner," DeCarbo said. "I will be at scenes to do the job the taxpayers of Lawrence County are paying me to perform. I will work closely with the area hospitals, doctors, law enforcement agencies, funeral directors, educators and the public to help ensure public safety."