Robert "Bob" Sheard

Robert “Bob” G. Sheard passed away at home Saturday February 24, 2024.  Cherished Father, Brother, Grandfather, Great Grandfather and Friend he will be dearly missed by all lucky enough to have known him.  A proud veteran he served his country in the Vietnam conflict and was deeply patriotic.  Bob was an adventurous soul who loved to try new things and go new places, especially when those could be shared with good friends and family.  Nothing made him happier than sitting around with those he called friends and sharing stories and laughter. 

A Memorial Service will be held to celebrate his life on March 11, 2024 at the Springbrook Gardenhouse located at the Springbrook Gardens Park on 6776 Heisley Rd, Mentor, OH  44060 where the family will receive friends and family.  The service will begin at 4pm.

Edward Thomas Marcel

Edward Thomas (94) of Painesville, OH passed away peacefully on February 22, 2024, surrounded by his loving family.

Tom was the beloved husband of Judith and the devoted father of Lisa Burrage, Amy Brunsen (Bill), Anne De May (Rich), Ruthanne Bell, Thomas, and Michael (Tracey) Marcel.  He was cherished grandfather to Tom Serger, Alexandra Burrage, Gabrielle Burrage, Isabella Burrage (Rachel), Adam Brunsen (Sarah), Carolyn Brunsen (Grace), Sophia Marcel, Jordan and Lauren Bell.

He was great grandfather to Taylor Bergoch, Danika Serger and Gianna Serger.

Dear brother of Linda Lucas (Ed) and Arlene Borger and uncle to many loving nieces and nephews. Tom was preceded in death by his beloved sister, Delores Martin and his parents, Edward and Katherine Marcel. 

Born in Mount Vernon, NY, Tom moved to Painesville as a young teenager with his parents and siblings.  After graduating from Harvey High School, he went on to earn a degree in Architecture from the University of Cincinnati.  After starting his own company, E Thomas Marcel Architects, Tom went on to enjoy a successful career that spanned over 50 years.  Throughout his esteemed career, Tom was always recognized for the highest standards, talent, and creativity he brought to every project.  Tom’s legacy can be seen in the many buildings and design projects he was associated with in and around Lake County.   

Tom served in the US Army during the Korean War.  He had been a past member of the Mentor Rotary Club, the Elks Club, and the Lake County Historical Society where he also served a term as president.

Tom embodied intelligence, kindness, integrity, and wit.  His unconditional love and constant steady guidance, like our memory of him, will endure and embrace us always.  He was so loved and will be missed dearly.

A memorial service is planned for March 9th, 11:00am at the Western Reserve Memorial Gardens Chapel in Chesterland, Ohio.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Hospice of The Western Reserve.

Marianne Bordonaro (nee Engoglia)

Marianne Bordonaro (nee Engoglia), 71, of Cleveland, Ohio, passed away on February 18, 2024. She was born on February 26, 1952, in Cleveland, Ohio.

Marianne was known for her wonderful sense of humor and loving nature. She also was an avid lover of music, especially soft rock and Motown. She will be deeply missed by her son Dave Perrier (Susan), beloved grandchildren Zoe and Zach, her brother Mark Engoglia, Nephews John Engoglia (Tina), Matt Engoglia(Rachael), niece Tara Catalano (Robertto), sister in law Barbara Engoglia, extended family, and many friends.  

Marianne is now reunited in heaven with her husband Chuck Bordonaro, her Father & Mother John & Eleanor Engoglia, and her brother John Engoglia. 

A Celebration of Life will be planned for friends and family at a future date to honor and remember Marianne's life and the joy & laughter she brought to those around her.

William Riley McCauley

William Riley (Bill, Billymack, Red) McCauley, age 88, passed away peacefully on February 5 with his wife, Shirley, and “grand” Kelly by his side.

Bill is survived by his wife, the love of his life and soulmate, Shirley (Slater), for over 66 years. Born and raised in rural Enterprise, West Virginia to Dhring and Lilly Olive (Cunningham) McCauley (both deceased) and was the last survivor of 12 siblings. Bill was lovingly supported by three generations of close family, children of whom he and Shirley affectionately referred to as their “daughter/son”, “grands” and “great-grands”.

Bill received his draft notice while on his honeymoon and served two years repairing tank engines at US Army bases in Germany. He worked for the South Euclid-Lyndhurst Schools as custodian for 33 years. In 1981, after cancer surgery, he was told he would have only 2 to 2- ½ years to live. Obviously, the “energizer bunny” proved doctors wrong. He was a warrior!

Bill was an avid sports player for 70+ years, playing basketball, volleyball, and hardball weekly, bowled in several bowling leagues, and his love for the past 20 years was playing softball with Solon’s “Babes of 1916.” He grew up playing horseshoes, and was darn good at it, throwing ringer after ringer. Friends and family always wanted to partner up with Bill when playing horseshoes or cornhole, as they knew they would be “the winners.” Bill helped establish South Euclid’s first Ponytail Softball League in the ‘60s.

Bill and Shirley loved travelling by car or going on bus trips. Every year, they travelled by car to San Diego to visit family, taking a different route every year, enjoying the beauty of the USA, especially our National Parks, with Yellowstone being their favorite. They have hiked almost all of our National Parks, visited every State Capitol, loved visiting historic towns and places, and cruised many USA Rivers. Their last trip was in 2019, covering over 10,600 miles in 61 days.

In lieu of flowers, consider donations, in Bill’s memory, to: Babes of 1916, 37182 O’Neill Dr, Solon Oh 44139, or Alzheimer’s Association, Cleveland Area Chapter, 23215 Commerce Park, Suite 300, Beachwood, Oh 44122, or a charity of your choice.

Cremation arrangements were handled by Blessing Cremation in Mentor, OH. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

Larry Gean Lynn

Larry Gean Lynn, 75, a long standing Perry, Ohio resident, passed away on January 31, 2024. He was born on October 30, 1948, in Painesville, Ohio. Larry was a dedicated carpenter by trade, working alongside his father Harold building homes. Eventually, he became the proud owner and operator of Lynn Contractors.

Larry will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 53 years, Melody, his son Levi, his daughter Laryn (Curtis) Bryan, his granddaughters Vivian and Penelope, and his brothers Russel (Rebecca) and Keith (Donna). He is preceded in death by his father Harold, mother Ruth, and sisters Janet and Tina.

In his free time, Larry had a variety of hobbies that brought him joy. He was an avid pilot in his early years and enjoyed traveling. He took pleasure in witnessing to people about his faith as a minister and dedicated Jehovahs Witnesses for over 55 years. Larry cherished spending time on his porch with his friends and family, riding his motorcycle, and collecting coins.

Larry found solace and spiritual guidance reading the Bible and attending the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses. It was a place where he could nurture his faith and find support with others who serve Jehovah God.

A ceremony to celebrate Larry's life will be held on Saturday, February 17th at 1:00pm at the Madison Kingdom Hall of Jehovahs Witnesses 7320 Middle Ridge Rd., Madison, Oh., 44057. Following the service, refreshments will be served at the North Perry Village Hall, 4449 Lockwood Rd., Perry, Oh., 44081.

Larry Gean Lynn will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him. May his memory be a source of comfort and strength during this difficult time.

Franny Palker

Franny Palker (Surber) born July 15, 1971, passed away on January 28, 2024. Happily married to Ward for 23 years. Stepmother to Ally (Drew) Stewart, and Brendan. Step Grandmother to Isabelle and Madelyn Stewart. Loving daughter of Cathie Surber, sister of Cathie (Marty) Zelinsky, Sara (Dan) Llewellyn, Danny Surber, Clara (Rob) Kalal, Trish (Vito) Simonetta, and Jennifer (Kurt) Higginbotham. The best aunt to Nolan, Madeline, and Kaine Kalal, Reece and Raigan Llewellyn, Rachel and Lexi Zelinsky, and Dominic and Michael Simonetta. Franny was welcomed with open arms in Heaven by her Dad, Dan Surber.

If you knew Franny, you know that she always had treats for everyone. It brought her pure joy by doing things for others. Take comfort in knowing that in the end, Franny was able to give the ultimate gift of life through organ donation.

Franny lived for 52 years. She had beaten and defied every odd given to her since she had her first massive stroke on Mother's Day in 1993, when she was only 21 years old. 

After being told Franny would remain in a vegetative state, our determined girl went on to learn to walk, write, drive a car, hold numerous jobs, be a best friend, be married to Ward (for 23 years), help to run a business, and remain the most positive and genuinely happy person that you'd ever meet.

Franny had special relationships with so many people and touched countless lives over the years. She always was quick to laugh, and always had the very same impish grin every day of her life.

Franny was a true example of strength and positivity. She had the most infectious smile and found the beauty in everything.

Please join us in celebrating the life of our beautiful girl on Sunday, February 18 at Pleasant Valley Church, 12193 W. Pleasant Valley Rd., Parma, OH 44130. Mass is at 2:00pm, followed by visitation and a meal. Please dress casual.

Debra Anne Blazek

Debra Anne Blazek, born Deguido, on July 30, 1962, in Flushing Queens peacefully passed away on January 17th, 2024 in her home in Garrettsville, OH. She was surrounded by her loving family. Debra was a beloved wife, mother, and grandmother. 

Debra had a vibrant personality. She had a deep love for spending time with all her grandchildren and animals. She also loved sun tanning outside with her cup of coffee. She cherished every moment with her loved ones and brought joy to their lives. 

Debra is survived by her husband Jerome (Jay) Blazek, her 3 children Kelli Bitz, Georgie (Kayla) Bitz, and Charles (Samantha) Bitz. She is also survived by her grandchildren and her sister Linda (Gino) Floro. She was preceded in death by her father, Robert Deguido and her brother Andrew Deguido. 

Her cremation arrangements were handled by Blessing Cremation in Mentor, OH. 

The family appreciates the support and condolences during this difficult time. 

May Debra’s soul find eternal peace, and may her memory be a blessing to all who knew and loved her. 

Linda L Whiteman

Linda Lee Whiteman (nee Gantz), age 81, passed away peacefully on December 24, 2023, surrounded by family. Born July 2, 1942, to the late Lee “Bus” Burton and Doris (nee Croxton) Gantz in Castalia, Ohio, she graduated from Margaretta High School in 1960 and Heidelberg College in 1964 with an Education Degree. She married Don on July 9, 1966. She enjoyed teaching and volunteering at elementary schools and in particular, working with special needs children. She was an avid gardener, lover of & caregiver to all animals, baker, nature watcher and a cherished mother and grandmother.

Linda is preceded in death by her parents. She is survived by her husband Donald R., her brother Curt Gantz, children Donald C., Damon, Andrea (Steve) Fox and Jennifer, grandchildren Joseph, Alexandria, Curtis, Caroline, Alex, Victoria, and Cameron.

Calling hours will be January 27, 2024, at 10 am with service at 11 am at Champion Presbyterian Church 4997 Mahoning Ave NW, Warren OH 44484.

John R. Green

John R. Green passed away December 20, 2023. 

Rest in peace John.           

Love

your mom and sister.

Karen A. Hochschild

Karen Ann Hochschild of Mentor-on-the-Lake, Ohio passed away peacefully on November 25, 2023, at University Hospital in Cleveland, Ohio. She was 74 years of age.  

Karen was born on January 5, 1949, in Cleveland, Ohio. After obtaining her G.E.D., she enlisted in the Army in 1968 at age 19 and served for 3 years. Karen had a few jobs, but most of her career was with Progressive Insurance which led to her retirement in 2011. 

Anyone who knew Karen knew how much she loved animals. Not only was she known for taking in strays, but she was also extremely philanthropic when it came to animal charities. She regularly contributed to the Humane Society, ASPCA, PETA, and several others. She enjoyed feeding all the animals that came into her yard, especially the birds.  

Along with her love of animals, Karen loved working in her yard and planting flowers. It's something she and her partner Bob enjoyed doing together. When she was younger, she loved to ride her motorcycle. Due to health reasons, she eventually had to hang up her helmet. More recently Karen picked up bowling, even joining a league with her brother Bobby. Music was also a favorite, especially Rock-n-Roll. Not surprisingly she played music for her animals when leaving the house. She was a member of Mentor Community Church of God. 

Karen is survived by her loving partner Robert "Bob" Hughes, brother Robert "Bobby" Hochschild, sister Debra (Hochschild) Mack, brother Ronald Hochschild, brother Leonard Hochschild, nieces and nephews Ruth (Pat) Paterson, Stephen Hochschild, Keith (Nancy) Hochschild, Christine (Donald) Ross, Daniel (Megan) Hochschild, Timothy Hebebrand, Teresa (David) Kerr, Karen (Brian) Oliver, Starson (Ellen) Hochschild, Nicole Hochschild, Diana (Fabio) Gonzalez, along with many grandnieces and grandnephews. She also leaves behind her long-time best friend Paulette Mack and beloved dog Taz. 

Karen was preceded in death by her parents Robert and Theresa (Turay) Hochschild, brother Michael Hochschild, and many animal companions. 

A Celebration of Life will be held at Mentor Community Church of God, 8245 Munson Rd, Mentor-on-the-Lake, OH on Saturday, January 6, 2024, at 11:00 a.m.

Interment will be at the Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery in Seville, Ohio on a later date. 

Karen Lynn Fryman

Karen Lynn Fryman (nee Heaton) of Willowick passed away on Friday, November 24, 2023. She was born on June 14, 1963 to Richard and Donna Heaton. Karen enjoyed listening to music, going to concerts, watching movies, spending time with her family and working at Curves while living in Pennsylvania, where she loved working out and motivating others to reach their goals. Karen is survived by her sister Kimberly Trinkle, nieces Ashley Trinkle (Jennifer George), Kayla Trinkle (Celeste Zimmerman). She is preceded in death by her father Richard Heaton, brother Keith Heaton and mother Donna Heaton.  

A private memorial will be held at a later date. 

James P. Durket

James P. Durket, age 63. Loving partner of Amy Jaklich for 22 years; son of Peter and Catherine (both deceased); brother of Michael and the following deceased Cathy, Susie, and John. Devoted uncle and great-uncle of many. Jimmy was known for his BIG heart, sense of humor, and his devotion to his cats.  He was an animal lover, compassionate, kind, and giving. Jimmy was a dear friend to many and will be deeply missed.

A Celebration Of Life gathering will be held on Friday, December 15, 2023 from 4:30 – 8:30 p.m. in the back hall of the PLAV 850 East 200th. St. Cleveland, OH 44119.

Deborah R. Fulmer

Deborah Fulmer age 72, passed away peacefully in hospice on the morning of November 6th, 2023. Deborah is survived by her sister Pamela Rife, son Damien ( Dawn) Fulmer and grandsons Gavin and Bryce Fulmer. She is preceded in death by her parents Leonard and Patricia Rife, her husband Raymond Kriha and sister Susan Rife.

Per Deborah’s request, no services will be held.

Valerie Mehalic

Valerie Mehalic took flight with the angels on Saturday, November 4, 2023 following a lengthy and private battle with cancer. Valerie was at peace in her home, held by her husband Mitchell and circled in love by her daughters and siblings.

Born in western Pennsylvania, where Valerie and Mitch met camping in the early 70s, Val relocated immediately after their connection. Moving to Willoughby in 1973, Valerie would become a Cleveland loyal and always considered Mentor her home. Val and Mitch raised their daughters in Mentor and created the same home Val was welcomed to by Chuck and Lillian Mehalic when she moved. Neighbors and strangers alike knew the safe space created by a Mehalic home, and Valerie carried what she learned, proudly, while instilling it in another generation.

Valerie and Mitchell were together over 50 years, celebrating their 45th anniversary together this past June. They were covered in the colors of their wedding and memories of the music, sights, people and love that started their legacy. To witness the way they looked at each other was a blessing in itself—may their love transcend with all who have loved them as well. It is the greatest honor to their testimony of devotion, strength, and unconditional love.

Valerie worked in many places before raising her girls and others in her own day care in the 1980s. She went back to school and work when her daughters were small, with the perfect partnership to foster both family and each other. Valerie would go on to graduate with her Associate’s Degree alongside her daughter Ariane, one of the proudest days of her life. Val valued not just higher learning, but true knowledge. Her success was simply a side effect of her drive and desire to always be the best she could at anything she attempted.

Some of the moments she really proved her drive and power were when Val was in “Mom Mode.” Her daughters treasure the sacrifices Valerie made to provide incredible core memories of concerts in the 80s and 90s, along with the others she made. Val was protective to the core, and appreciated when others would do the same. Just like many turn to Mitch for their car questions, anyone could turn to Valerie to answer anything else. She was knowledgeable about so much and always ready to “go to bat” for someone she cared about and a cause she believed. Not only did she love unconditionally, as her eldest can gratefully attest, but she did so fiercely. To be loved by Valerie was a true blessing.

Valerie and Mitchell were married at St. Bede in 1978 and attended the church with their family through their time at home together. For more than 20 years Valerie and Mitch worked together at Hasek Automotive, where they made countless connections spanning multiple cities. When Mitch came back to work in Lake County, Val went to work at CGI Federal downtown. She loved a challenge and proved it with perpetual promotions and growing responsibility. Val thrived effortlessly at management, especially in her last position as a financial analyst.

Valerie wore her heart on her sleeve and never minced words. She let you know how she felt about you and did so with purpose. If she shared an anecdote with you, or most of all a song, know that’s her sign. Val did everything with intention, and expressed herself uniquely. She was so grateful to have so much love around her, and will continue to remind us of it with joy.

There will be no services at Valerie’s request, and family is wordlessly grateful for the support received in the last two weeks. Gratitude to local families, friends, and businesses who have been generous with gifts, nourishment, and support. Eternal gratitude to the Longo family and its Friday night Mentor Ave. crew, Mitch’s coworkers at Gerber Collision, Ariane’s family at Dr. Philip J. Weiss and associates, and CGI Federal for their ongoing support of the Mehalics. The staff at Hillcrest Hospital and Hospice of the Western Reserve hold special places with the family for their compassion in caring for Valerie. 

Valerie was welcomed home by their first baby, Shanna Lynn; her father Paul, in-laws Chuck and Lillian, sister Patti Marie, dear friends Mary Ann (Don) Crooker, and protective brothers-in-law Mike Goodnight and recently, Charles Oblich.

Celebrating Valerie’s legacy, her one true soulmate and only love, Mitchell Mehalic of Mentor; daughters Michelle (Kristoffer) Mehalic and Ariane (Ryan) Kirschner support Mitch in this time. Blessed to have the best grandma in the world are Anthony Jr, Avalon, and Ryan. Valerie has also been a loving and FUN aunt to over 25 nieces and nephews, over 21 great nieces and nephews-- one on the way, and one making her entrance the same hour Valerie crossed realms. So many blessings of life! Brought to us thanks to Valerie’s amazing siblings: Randy & Vickie, Faith and Donald, Jennifer, Paul Joseph, Matthew, Damian & Sheila, Charles and Heidi, John & Stacy, Gary & Mica, Patti & Bruce, Loren, Lynley, and Deidre & Kent. Valerie’s mother Mary, 93, brought it all together over 50 years ago. We are all so blessed to be part of such a major circle of love! Valerie’s extended family went beyond blood and for that, we are all truly grateful.

Mitchell and his daughters have appreciated the privacy and support from the community and look forward to individual contact when scheduled. With gratitude and love, the Mehalic family looks forward to carrying Valerie’s compassionate and magical spirit through Mentor forever. 

Samantha D. Winland

Samantha Winland (Lewis) aged 33, of Cleveland, Ohio, peacefully passed away on November 1, 2023, in her mother's home in Willowick, Ohio.  
 
Samantha is survived by her beloved mother, Paula Gillen (John), and her cherished siblings, Heather Troglin (Craig), Jennifer Lewis (Shon), Joe Lewis (Manda), as well as her nieces and nephews, Aidan Troglin, Lizzy Vance, Brooklyn Vance, Preston Vance, and Arden Skufca. 
 
She was preceded in death by her father, Walter J Lewis Jr., her stepmother Linda Lewis, and her grandparents, Bert and Shirley Ray, Walter J Lewis Sr., and Audrey Harris. 
 
Samantha attended Perry Elementary School and graduated from North High School. She had a passion for arts and crafts and found joy in adult coloring books and playing Yahtzee and other games with friends. Family was most important to Samantha, and she loved spending time with her nieces and nephews. 
 
A celebration of Samantha's life will take place on November 19, 2023 from 2pm to 4pm at Willow Praise Church, located at 32901 Vine Street, Willowick, Ohio 44095. Following the services, there will be a time of fellowship and nourishment, as we gather to share cherished memories and honor Samantha's life. 
 
Samantha will be remembered for her gentle spirit and the love she brought to her family and friends. May we find peace in the memories we shared and draw strength from the legacy she leaves behind. 

George F. Kilburg

George F. Kilburg, age 77, peacefully passed away at St. John Medical Center of natural causes on October 27, 2023.

He was born in Cleveland, Ohio on March 27, 1946, to George P. Kilburg (deceased) and Elizabeth H. Balaam - Kilburg (deceased). George was raised in Cleveland's west side suburbs with his four younger sisters, Joyce (deceased), Cindy, Jeannine and Patricia.

Always intrigued by technology and adventure, George entered the U.S. Navy just after high school to become a submariner. After honorably fulfilling his obligations on USS Threadfin (Key West, FL) he joined the Army National Guard where he served as a combat medic with the 316th AeroMedEvac unit. This endeavor ignited his love for flying. George went on to build a career in corporate aviation spanning several decades, introducing him to many people and places the world over. 

Flying private jet powered aircraft also fueled his passion and involvement in motorsports. He poured his energy into building, modifying, and driving open-wheeled race cars with his family and friends. He was a founding member of M.O.R.E. (Mini-Champ Outlaw Racing Enterprises) which opened new opportunities, for many, to local circle track racing. He also competed in the SCCA Formula 440 North-East Ohio Regional Series before retiring comfortably in North Olmsted, Ohio with his wife Barb.

After Barb's untimely passing (2018), George relocated and lived out his remaining years in Brecksville, Ohio. There, he continued to exercise his never ending desire for creativity by designing various pieces on his computer and producing them on his 3-D printer.

At the end of the day, he loved to unwind with an old movie, sitting by the fire surrounded by loved ones.

He was held dear to many for his wild sense of humor, lightning quick whit, highly playful nature and magnetic charm. He carried these traits, keeping people laughing, to the very last moments and will forever be missed. 

George is survived by his sisters; Cindy Ruic, Jeannine Edlund (Dave) and Patricia Jogan, his children; Jackie Thompson, George Kilburg, Stacey Zahuranec (Bonnie), Dave Kilburg, Kristen Kilburg, his grandchildren; George & Sarah Kilburg, Peyton & Bayleigh Skernivitz, Spencer Thompson, Matt Collecchi, Cynthia & Grace Fisak.

Military Honors and interment will take place at 1:15 pm December 8, 2023 in the Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery, 10175 Rawiga Road, Seville, OH 44273.

Allan C. Jacobs

Allan C. Jacobs, age 79, of Concord, Ohio passed away peacefully on October 26th, 2023. Born in Milan, Ohio to Dwilla and Clark Jacobs, he graduated from Milan High school class of 1962 where he played basketball, was VP of his senior class and made lifelong friends.

After High school, he started his working career in building construction for Milan Steel Corporation as an estimator, jobsite supervisor and eventually sales, working in Akron, Galion and Cleveland Ohio offices. He also attended Star building school to further his skills and knowledge. In the mid-1970s, Al became co-owner of Doyle-Jacobs building company in Mentor. He and his partner Bob Doyle built many buildings and additions for local companies in Mentor/Lake County Ohio, including the first solar panel building in Mentor and also Royal Plastics, Fredon, Polychem, Wiseco, 3M and others.

In the late 1980s, Al would begin to work for USA Management as Construction Manager and worked on many projects and companies throughout Lake County. He was very well liked and known in his work. He did this work until his retirement in 2020. Al was a life member and active in Willoughby Elks Lodge #18, he was named Exalted Ruler in 1974-75.

 In his leisure time, Al really enjoyed playing golf and watching Ohio State and Cleveland sports. He and his cousin Myke Wharff shared a close relationship and had regular great conversations about sports. He always enjoyed being with friends at the local watering holes including Blue Spruce, Matchworks, Epiq and later Hellreigel’s.

 Al met Sandy Makuch, a bartender at Epiq restaurant in Concord Ohio around 2000. After many attempts from Al to have a date, Sandy gave in, and they attended an Indians game together. Al was Sandy’s longtime partner/Fiancé and the love of his life. Sandy’s family, Ritchie, Denise and Debby loved Al as part of their own and they became very close for 20+ years. They spent many good times together until Sandy’s passing just 9 weeks ago. Al wasn’t the same and his broken heart gave in on Oct. 26th. Al and Sandy are now together again forever.

 Al was preceded in death by his parents Dwilla (Dee) Nelson and Clark Jacobs and Sandy Makuch, his longtime partner/fiancé. He is survived by his daughter Dara (Jeff) Jacobs Frango, brother Steve (Lisa) Jacobs, 5 step brothers, 4 step sisters and many nieces and nephews. He also leaves behind the loving Makuch family of Ritchie, Denise (Tom) and Debby (Ed) Makuch. A celebration of Al’s life will take place at a later date.  

Al wished to thank all of his friends for a good ride.

Paula Ann Rosiek (Puskarich)

Paula Ann (Puskarich) Rosiek, 75, of Willoughby Hills, OH, passed away on Sunday, October 15, 2023, at University Hospitals Main Campus in Cleveland, OH. Paula was born on December 15, 1947, in Connellsville, PA. The daughter of Anthony Puskarich, Jr. and Ann (Skudar) Puskarich. Paula lived most of her childhood years in Pennsylvania and moved to Euclid, OH with her parents during her high school years. Upon high school graduation, Paula married and moved to Willoughby Hills, OH, where she raised her family of three boys and lived until her passing. Paula was a homemaker when her boys were young, then worked for the Lubrizol Corporation Coating Additives group as a Sales Coordinator for more than 25 years until her retirement in 2017. Paula loved her family and would do anything for them. Overcoming a brain aneurism then multiple myeloma bone cancer, she was a fighter and had an extremely strong work ethic, passed down by her parents and on to her boys and grandchildren. Paula was a caregiver for both her parents until their passing and was a devoted Christian, believing we are nothing without God in our lives. Paula had the kind of personality that would light up any room she entered and would always carry the conversation, which could last for hours and cover everything and sometimes nothing at all. Her entire family and friends will miss her smile, enthusiasm, laughter, voice of reason, comfort, encouragement and support; her years of knowledge and wisdom; and her unconditional and enduring love.

On October 15, heaven gained the most special, kind, selfless, encouraging and loving angel. Paula was always a fighter to the end, and that’s what she always raised her family to be, saying “Keep on fighting; you are strong, you are able, you are who you are and there’s no one else like you!” She would write long texts to fill your soul and would talk so poetically. You could listen to her for hours and hours on end. A call with Grandma could be about nothing and she would be the most open listening ear. She would sing “You are my Sunshine” and “A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood” while pushing her grandchildren on the swings and never complain about it even if it were for hours on end. But now, her family knows she will be watching over them as their guardian angel. We are all going to miss Paula so much it hurts, but we know she is up in heaven with no more pain and forever in eternal happiness. Sunsets and the beauty of fall tree colors will remind her family of her love for them and her awe of God’s creation.

Paula is survived by her ex-husband Charles Rosiek of Homosassa, Fl; three loving sons, Stephen Rosiek (Michelle) of Oak Ridge, NJ, David Rosiek of Willoughby Hills, OH, and Timothy Rosiek (Susan) of Mentor, OH, and four adoring grandchildren: Danielle, Christopher, Erin and Kristen Rosiek. She was preceded in death by her parents, Anthony Puskarich, Jr. and Ann (Skudar) Puskarich.

Paula's family is planning a memorial gathering on Saturday, January 13, 2024, at Trinity Church in Mentor, OH from 1-4 pm, weather permitting. She will be cremated and laid to rest in Brownsville, PA, alongside her parents Anthony and Ann.

Sandra Strater

Sandra Faye (Secrest) Strater passed away on Sunday October 15, 2023 at age 86 at her home. Sandra was a Mayfield Heights School teacher for 35 years. She studied at California State College, Ohio University, and Kent State University. She taught school in California, was an avid doll collector, and an active member of The Cleveland Doll Club. She had a huge heart to everyone in her life, and great compassion for animals. Sandra is preceded in death by her parents Clifford and Lucille Secrest, her brother Van Secrest, her aunt Faye Rhodes, and her loving husband Paul Strater. Sand had no Children. She is survived by her niece Tanya Secrest, and great nephew T.J. Rice.

Arrangements have been made at Blessings Cremation Center in Mentor, Ohio.

A celebration of life party will be arranged at a later date.

Susan Wallette

May 5, 1950 - September 28, 2023

Susan M. Wallette (nee Starzynski), age 73, loving mother of Stacy Wallette, Jody Haluszka, Kari (Eero) Linna; dear grandmother of Tyler (Caylee) Lucas, Alyssa Lucas (Shawn Edge), Mya Haluszka, Myles Haluszka (Mary-Kate Clancy), Donte Wallette (Melissa Vajskop), Gabriella Linna, Jonathan Linna, Niklas Linna and Casper Linna; great-grandmother of Rosalie Mae Lucas; sister of Jeff (Cheryl) Starzynski.  Susan passed away on September 28, 2023.  Church services Wednesday, October 4 at 10:00 a.m. at St. John Vianney, 7575 Bellflower Road, Mentor, Ohio.