Yolanda S. Thornton

 Yolanda Suzanne (Harvey) Thornton

           July 5,1956   - January 18, 2020

Yolanda was called home to eternal rest on January 18, 2020. She passed at her residence, in Kirtland, Ohio. 

She attended school and graduated from Mentor High School in 1974.  She worked various occupations over the years at Olan Mills Portrait Studios, a cook at "George's Famous Dinner Bell"  and she obtained her certification as a Medical Assistant, at ESI Career Center while working at Mag-Nif in Mentor. Where she met her husband of the last 20 years.

Yolanda is preceded in passing by her parents, Dale and Janiece (Murney) Harvey.

Siblings, James T. Harvey, and Kendra K. Whitfield.

Survivors, Spouse Alan L. Thornton 

Son, Rufus B. Nelson of Medina 

Daughter, Jennifer M. Nelson of Concord, 

6 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren.

Step- children, Charles, Bridgette, Alan and Corey.

In respect of Yolanda's wishes, there will be no public services. A private memorial for family and friends will take place at a later date.

Jozica L. Grizancic

Jozica passed away in her home on Wednesday, January 15th surrounded by her family. She was the beloved mom of Liljana Innes (David), Dan Grizancic (Bonnie), Tatjana Grizancic, and Suzi Grizancic (Nathan), and beloved nona of Abigail Grizancic. She will be remembered by her friends and family for her sense of humor, incredible work ethic, strength and kindness, and for the sweet way she let everyone call her by whatever was easiest for them whether it be Jozica, Jo, Josephine, Mrs. G, Botra, Nona, or Mom.

Jozica brought her Slovenian traditions with her when she immigrated to the US including a lifelong love of plants and animals learned from her father on their family farm, her traditional Slovenian cooking, and her love of polka music. She was very proud of the fact that she passed her US citizenship test on the first try even though education in her home country was limited due to WWII.  She was an avid gardener and a wonderful cook. She passed down many of her recipes to Abigail who is helping to carry forward our family traditions.

Jozica spent over 25 years working as the caretaker of the AMLA, a large property in Leroy, Ohio, which is now Lake Metroparks Hidden Lake. While there she made many friends in the community and used all of her skills to make a beautiful country retreat for the members.

Jozica will be remembered with love and respect by her family, friends, and neighbors. If you have any memories you'd like to share, please send them to jozicagrizancic@gmail.com.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you contribute in Jozica’s name to the Hospice of the Western Reserve, 34900 Chardon Rd., Chagrin North Bldg. Suite 105, Willoughby Hills, OH 44094. The family is eternally grateful for the outstanding care and compassion shown by her entire team, which was instrumental in helping her achieve her wishes to spend her final days in her home surrounded by her family, friends, and beautiful flowers. A private memorial service will be held at a later date.

Barbara A. Stewart

Barbara A. Stewart (nee Francis) age 69. Passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on January 12, 2020. Beloved wife of James for 25 years. Loving mother of Andy V. Kittelberger (deceased), and Tina M. Kittelberger. Grandmother of Felicia Kittelberger Alyssa Kittelberger, Andrew Kowalski, and Brandon.  Cherished sister of Andy Francis Jr. (deceased), Joanne (George) Worch, Shirley Francis, Judy Francis, Sandy Szoka (deceased), Bonnie (Jack) Burbol, Barbara was a loving Aunt to Andy Francis (Carmen),  Jason Francis (Tracy), Jeffrey Francis, and John Burbol (Laura), Amora Upton (Darrell), Sara Burbol (Jon), Vanessa Weiser (Jason) and Lily Crow (Nick).

A private celebration of life will be held on Sunday, January 19, 2020.

Billy H. West II

January 11, 1961 - January 13, 2020

Billy H. West II age 59, of Mentor formally from Eastlake, passed away peacefully on January 13, 2020, with surrounding family. Survivors are wife Isabel West (nee Benjamin) of 31 years, son Billy H. West III, beloved granddaughter Amiya Star Bitzer, beloved grandsons Billy H. West IV and Benjavanni Michael West, sister Tina West, brother-in-law of many and uncle to many nieces and nephews.

Preceded in death by mother Margaret June West (nee Jarell), father Billy H. West, brothers Danny J. McGhee and Jay P. West.

Bill will be truly missed.

Services:  Saturday, January 25, 2020 from 4:30-7p.m. at Prince of Peace 7193 Reynolds Rd. Mentor, OH 44060

Kip Nicholas Barker

Kip Nicholas Barker, born May 24, 1991 in Ashtabula, Ohio, to the late Clifford Earl “Kip” Barker & Carrie Lynn Marshall, passed away at age 28 due to complications of asthmatic respiratory arrest on January 14th, 2020 at 4:20pm while admitted to Lake West Medical Center in Willoughby, Ohio.  He was preceded in death by his sister Vickie, his uncles Chuck, Clark & KK, his Aunt Kim, his father Kip, his grandparents Chet & Beverly and great grandparents Guy & Mary Ann. 

Kip was a resident of Eastlake, Ohio and a Transportation Dispatcher at Signature Health in Mentor, Ohio.  He had a zest for life, despite having a rougher life than most. He enjoyed the little things and never took anything for granted; especially when it came to spending time with the people he loved the most.  Kip was a comedian and a huge NASCAR fan, with a love of playing video games, and had a deep passion for music which included playing guitar. He was a kind soul with a heart of gold and will be greatly missed by everyone who knew him.

Kip is survived by his girlfriend Tiffani & their fur baby Raven, his sister Jessica & her husband Albert, best friends/non biological brothers Josh & Wes, his nephew Albie and three nieces; Marissa, Ashley & Kristin, several cousins and second cousins, three Aunts; Cathy (Kenny), Christine (Mike) & Judy (Keith), four uncles; Chip (Miranda), Curtis (Kris), Duke & Jody (Debbie); mother Carrie, and grandparents Al & Nada.

A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, January 19, 2020 from 2pm-6pm at the Fraternal Order of Eagles Club located at 37299 Euclid Ave in Willoughby, Ohio. Kip’s final arrangements were entrusted to Blessing Cremation Center, 9340 Pinecone Drive, in Mentor, Ohio. (440) 352-8100.

Randy C. Miller

Randy Carmichael Miller March 13, 1947- December 24, 2019

Randy C. Miller, our beloved brother, uncle, great-uncle, and friend passed away suddenly at his residence in Eastlake, Ohio. He is survived by his brother, Terry L. Miller (wife, Judith), his loving nieces Corrie Miller, Brienne Miller, and Robyn Cosic. In addition, Randy found great joy in being the Great- Unkie to Harper Mae, Cecily Judth, Jack B., and Iris Leigh. Randy was preceded in death by his mother, Mae Carmichael Goeringer, father, Leigh Miller, step-father, Anton Goeringer, and sister, Nancy Leigh Miller. Randy was born in East Cleveland and grew up in Willoughby, Euclid, and Middlefield. He graduated from Cardinal High School in 1965 and from Case Western Reserve University in 1969. Randy spent his entire work career in the Restaurant/Catering business, an interest he developed while attending college. There will be a private memorial gathering for friends and family to be scheduled at a later date.

Lee Eric Butt

Lee Eric Butt, 51, passed away unexpectedly on 12/29/2019 at his residence in Chardon Ohio. Born in Uniontown Pa, he was raised in Chardon and graduated from Chardon High Scool in 1986. He then joined the US Navy and was a Hull Technician on the USS Defender in Charleston SC and then in Virginia. He became a preacher after his Navy service ended in 1991. He attended school in Tennessee and preached for 25 years for the Church of Christ in Texas. He was also a Volunteer Fireman for about 4 years in his hometown in Texas. He is survived be his 3 children and 1 granddaughter that he loved very much and was very proud of, Jessica (Brian) Burton and granddaughter Myra, Emily Butt, and Zachary Butt all in Abilene Texas. He is also survived by his mother, Mary from Chardon, and his brother Lon (Theresa) from Madison Ohio. He was preceded in death by his father Ted Butt from Chardon in 2008. A Private Memorial Service will be held in Abilene, Texas for his family.

Jason L. Yoho

Jason L. Yoho has been called for Heavenly duty at age 52, having lost the battle with cancer. He was born October 22, 1967 in Bellaire, Ohio. He passed away December 28, 2019 at his home with his family in Painesville, Ohio. He was an Army Reserve Veteran who served during Desert Storm/Shield. Preceding him in death were his parents Phyllis A. Yoho (Brown) and Gary L Yoho. He is survived by his wife Kathryn A. Yoho (Whalen), daughter Melissa Yoho, and brother Kelly Joe Yoho. The family will be having a Funeral Service at First Church Congregational, 22 Liberty Street, Painesville, Ohio 44077 on Saturday January 4, 2020 at 1:00 p.m. A lunch will be provided by the Women’s Fellowship of First Church. Jason’s ashes will be interred at Emma Grove Cemetery, State Route 536, Hannibal, Ohio at a later date. An Honor Guard will conduct a Military Graveside Service. In lieu of flowers please donate to the hospice of the Western Reserve. 17876 St. Claire Ave. Cleveland OH 44110

Wilma L. Smith

Wilma L. Smith age 92 of  Eastlake formerly of Southington. Passed away peacefully December 22, 2019 at her home in Eastlake with her family by her side.  She was born March 27, 1927 in Warren, Ohio. Wilma was the daughter of Mildred and Daniel Elston. She retired from Packard Electric in 1977, and then continued to care for and support her family through her remaining days on earth. Wilma was preceded in death by her husband of 68 years, Leonard L. Smith, as well as three brothers and one sister. Survivors include her daughter and son-in-law, Linda and Ted Vannelli of Kirtland, three grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, and a brother Jack Elston of Southington. Arrangements were entrusted to Blessing Cremation Center.

Virginia A. Gaudin

Virginia "Ginny" Gaudin passed away on December 25, 2019. Born on July 22, 1929, Virginia worked at Republic Steel and Euclid National Bank before retiring to help raise her grandchildren. She leaves behind her daughter, Lynn Cornacchione, granddaughter, Christina Andow (Bryan), grandson Cody Cornacchione (Rachael) and great-grandsons Blake and Collin. She was preceeded in death by the love of her life, Paul. The family is hosting a Celebration of Life at Lakefront Lodge, 30525 Lakeshore Boulevard, Willowick on Sunday, January 12 from 1:00-5:00. 

Frank J. Crnko

Frank J. Crnko, age 89 of Painesville. Passed away Monday, December 23, 2019 with his family at his side. He was born to the late Joseph and Mary (Frankovich) Crnko on July 20, 1930 in Lorain, OH. He proudly served his country for 20 years in the U.S. Army as Sergeant First Class, and Chief of Electronics. His many tours included Korea, Okinawa, California, Texas, St. Louis, and lastly the Nike Site in Painesville. While stationed for 5 years in Germany he met his future wife Olga, the best thing that ever happened to him. "Sarge" was an avid fisherman, meat master, gardener, wood craftsman, an all around tradesman, and a wonderful polka dancer. After he retired from the military, he worked at Lubrizol in instrumentation until his retirement in 1986. Survivors include his son Helmut (Hun Chu) of Madison, Alabama, daughters Carola (Mox Eggert) of Painesville, Diana (Luigi) DiCarlo of Concord, son-in-law Ed Castania of Newport News, VA. Grandchildren Scott Crnko of Salt Lake City, UT, Kelly (Geoff) Sneed of Henderson, NV, Frank Crnko of Opelika, AL. Four great-grandchildren Abigail and Fletcher Crnko, Reagan and Jackson Sneed, sister Josephine Jankowski. Sister-in-law Norma Crnko, and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his loving wife Olga, daughter Ursula, brothers Joseph and Tom Crnko, sister Mary Goeller, and sister-in-law Ann Crnko. Also shadowed by many beloved granddogs. At Frank's request, there will be no funeral service. A Private Celebration will be held at a later date.

Guerin L. Avery "Gary"

April 9, 1940 - December 13, 2019

Guerin “Gary” Avery, 79, was born in Cleveland, Ohio on April 9, 1940, the younger of two children born to Gerald and Barbara Avery.  A top graduate of Cathedral Latin high school, a talented musician and debater with a formidable intellect, he earned his undergraduate degree from John Carroll University and a law degree from Cleveland Marshall. Gary built two successful businesses during his lifetime.  In Act One in his twenties and thirties, he juggled private law practice while acting as Municipal Law Director (University Heights and Olmstead Falls).  Act Two was purely entrepreneurial.   In 1986, he founded Law Advisory Group, the platform from which he created visionary content covering the challenges faced by school and law enforcement personnel related to firearms, gangs, drugs, and special education laws.  He also authored the book “Safety, Order, and Discipline in American Schools: Defining the Authority of Educators and Law Enforcement Personnel”.  For nearly 30 years, Gary and his wife Patricia Holicek (nee Corsaro) traversed the country as business and life partners.  Generations of students, teachers, administrators and allied professionals applied his practical wisdom that demystified legalities while honing in on practicalities (“If you know there’s a gun in the locker, but you lack probable cause for a search, go get the gun! The worst thing that happens is that kids are safe but you can’t prosecute.”).  Gary ensured that his students always knew that, and how, they could act decisively without risking personal liability. Kind and empathetic, a gifted storyteller with a bottomless well of humor and a booming voice, Gary left an indelible impression on those he met.  He mentored many who went on to successful careers themselves.  After more than a decade of health challenges, Gary passed into the next life on December 13, 2019.  His children knew that no matter what, throughout his life, Gary consistently did the best he could and he forever yearned to foster connections with those for whom he cared a great deal. Gary is survived by his four children from his first marriage (with Catherine “Kitty” Busher, nee Callinan) and a host of step-children/grandchildren from his second marriage to Patricia Holicek. 

Christian memorial service will be held Thursday, December 19, 2019 at 11:00 a.m. at Body of Christ Community Church, 38057 Erie Rd. Willoughby, OH 44094.

Contributions may be made in memory of Gary to Hospice of the Western Reserve, P.O. Box 72101 Cleveland, OH 44192.

Scott Robert Wall Jr.

Scott R. Wall Jr., age 22 of Willowick. Passed away December 13, 2019. Loving son of the late Scott Wall Sr. (father), and survived by mother Angie Wall (John). Scott is survived by his brother Jacob, sister Chelsey, Heather, Miranda, and Brittany. Cherished grandson of the late Nancy (Brad) Durst, and Ron (Frances) Wall.  Scott was loved by 10 Aunts, 9 Uncles, 27 cousins, and 22 second cousins. He was a loving uncle of Juliettta and Austin. Scott was loved by many family, friends, and anybody he encountered. He was a loving, genuine, caring old soul with a heart of gold. He was very giving and sensitive to the needs of others. He was surely the life of the party, and a "Shit Head." Scott was a GQ that loved his family unconditionally, and was full of adventure. A Celebration of Scott's Life will be held Sunday December 29, 2019 at 1:00P.M. at the VFW Post 1500, 38295 Pelton Road, Willoughby, OH 44094.

James Francis McAleese Jr.

James Francis McAleese Jr. age 83. Preceded in death by his beloved wife, Elaine (nee Hogan) McAleese (2016). Loving father of Joe McAleese (Kate), Karen Valvoda (Don), Tim McAleese (Cyndi), Maria Capretta (Michael) and John McAleese (Tara); Proud Grandfather of Kyle and Ashley McAleese, Lauren, Chris, Lindsey, and Tyler Valvoda, and Palmer and Dominic Capretta. Beloved brother of Dorothy Rubino, and he was preceded in death by his Brother Ed McAleese. Jim was born and raised in Pittsburgh. It was there where he earned his degree from Duquesne University, which launched his life long career in accounting and finance. His career brought he and his family to Cleveland where he made many life long friends while bonding over bridge. Mass of Christian Burial will be held Saturday, December 14th at 11:00 am at St. John Vianney Church 7575 Bellflower Rd. Mentor, Ohio. Lunch following in St. John Vianney Party Center. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in James name to the American Cancer Society, American Cancer Society
P.O. Box 22478 Oklahoma City, OK 73123

Evelyn Piorkowski

Was born on June 22, 1922 in Cleveland, Ohio and passed away peacefully on December 4th 2019.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband Edward Piorkowski and grandson Angelo Walden. She is Survived by her daughter Eva Rose Schneider, and sons Edward and Robert Piorkowski, grandchildren Tony (Sherri) Walden, Carl (Christine) Walden, Mark (Laura) Walden, Bill (Monica) Heasley, Linda (Robert) Jones, Susan Martino, Danny (Christine) Piorkowski, Kathleen (Eddie) Bessie, Ava (Jason) Brock, Jeremy (Crystal) Greigo,

Kimothy (Gregory) Joy, Kyle Piorkowski, Kory (Lianne) Piorkowski, Scott Piorkowski and Jamie Piorkowski, as well as 23 great-grandchildren. A special thank you to Jamie for taking such great care of grandma over the last few years. A celebration of life for Evelyn will be scheduled in the future and shared with family and friends.

Kathryn J. Michney-Zahler

Kathryn J. Michney-Zahler (nee Wetzel) age 75 of Madison. Passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on December 4, 2019. Loving mother of Scott Schweidt (Chris) of Arizona, Michael Schweidt (Reba) of Arizona, Margaret Sweitzer (Blaine) of Willoughby, George Zahler of Conneaut, Karl Zahler (Christina) of Perry, and Todd Zahler. Cherished grandmother of 9. Dear sister of the late Nancy Smith. Kathryn was active in the VFW, Blue Star Mothers, and Cooties organization. A Memorial Service at the VFW will be held at a later date.

Roland Daniel "Sonny" Peters

Roland Daniel "Sonny" Peters. Born July 18th, 1934. Entered into rest November 8th, 2019. Son of Nicola and Katherine Peters (both deceased). Dearest brother of Marie (Robert) and Bette (both deceased). Husband of the late Angela. Survived by nephew Robert (Angela) Cook Jr. and niece Dina (Tony) Torres. Great uncle of Gia, Nicholas and Jenna. Sonny was a founding member of Cleveland's own "Bocky and the Visions". A Memorial Mass will be held Saturday December 7, at 1030 AM at Holy Rosary Church, 12021 Mayfield Road, Cleveland, OH 44106. Immediately following mass interment at Lakeview Cemetery.

Heinz W. Stahlhut

June 3, 1930 - November 23, 2019

On Saturday, November 23, 2019, Heinz Stahlhut of Reminderville, Ohio, passed away peacefully at age 89. Heinz was born June 3, 1930 in Datteln, Germany. He immigrated to the United States in 1952 and later became a proud, U.S. citizen. Heinz had a strong work ethic and could fix anything. He worked at Morco for many years and retired in 1990. Heinz loved to travel, he enjoyed camping and spending time at the ocean. He was a regular at the German Club for lunch with friends and could play a mean harmonica. Heinz had the most wonderful laugh and gave the best hugs. He will be missed by all who knew him. Heinz is survived by his adoring wife Sue (Marquart) of the past 39 years. He was a loving father to Gary and Linda (Metz) and stepfather to Kim (Kuhlman) Page, Katherine Kuhlman and Kolleen (Kuhlman) Barnes. He was the best Grandpa to Michelle Piskura, Katherine Piskura and the late Michael Piskura  Jr, and Papa to Isabella Barnes, Savannah Barnes, Josiah Page, Jonah Page and Morgan Kuhlman and Great-Grandfather to Madelynn Prichard and Jake Barnes. Heinz was preceded in death by his parents Heinrich and Katherine, and his brother Friedhelm. He is survived by his brother, Gunter of Cologne, Germany. 

 A memorial service will be held Sunday, December 1st, 2019 at Solon United Methodist Church, 5540 Som Center Rd, at 2:30 P.M. In lieu of flowers, donations are welcome to be made to The Hospice of the Western Reserve.

Sherry L. Glick

Sherry L. Glick age 69, of Willoughby. Passed away at Hospice of the Western Reserve on November 16, 2019. The daughter of Frank Dunkelberg (Carol). Loving mother of Andrea Boyd (Ben), and Jay Glick II (Rachael).

Cherished grandmother of Kaitlin and Brianna Boyd, Jay III, Rosaleigh, and Justin Glick. Sister of Terry Dunkelberg, and Darell Bizzarri (Louis). A Memorial Service will be held for Sherry by Pastor Michael LoPresti at Knollwood Cemetery in the Mausoleum Chapel, 1678 Som Center Road, Mayfield Heights, OH 44124 on Monday November 25, 2019 at 1:00P.M.

Thomas Alan Schilling "Little T"

Thomas Alan Schilling "Little T" 12-16-1969 - 11-16-2019.

Thomas Alan Schilling 49 years old was received in heaven on November 16, 2019.

From Willoughby, OH he lived in Painesville area most of his life. Tommy "Little T" enjoyed playing his drums, attending car shows, and listening to his big brother Don play in the band "Burnt River."

Thomas was preceded in death by his mother Lois A. Riel, and his father Tom Fisher. Tommy will be sorely missed, and always will be loved by his family and friends. He is survived by sister Cindy Toole, Brother-Don Schilling, Sister-Christine Schilling, brother-John Schilling, and many nieces and nephews. A Celebration of Life will be held, and announced at a later date.