OBITUARIES
A Remembrance of Loved Ones
Joseph S. Malanowski
September 11, 1946 - September 6, 2020
Joseph S. Malanowski passed away peacefully Sunday September 6, 2020 with his devoted companion, Sharlene Simerale and his sister, Linda Franke, at his side. Joe was born in New London, Connecticut on September 11, 1946. He is predeceased by his parents Joseph J. Malanowski and Audrey (Pearson) Malanowski. His love of fishing and the outdoors led to his being a certified fishing guide in Lake Chautaqua, New York and to his career as a landscape contractor. He is survived by his dearest Sharlene, his daughters, Jennifer (Malanowski) Nowak and Melanie Malanowski, his grandchildren, Riley Nowak and Delaney Nowak, his sister, Linda (Malanowski) Francke and many friends and relatives. He graduated from Mayfield High School in 1964 where he was a member of the wrestling team, and the University of Pittsburgh where he was a member of the SAE fraternity.
There will be a memorial service for Joe September 12, 2020 at 9am at St. Paschals Baylon Parish, 5384 Wilson Mills Rd, Highland Heights, Ohio 44143
In lieu of flowers, Joe would have appreciated donations to: The Michael J. Fox Foundation P.O. Box 5014 Hagerstown, Maryland 21741-5014
Jack David Pearce Sr.
It is with a heavy heart that we share the news of the passing of our father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, Jack David Pearce Sr. who died peacefully at home in Mentor, Ohio on September7th, 2020. Jack was born in South Kingston, Rhode Island on September 30th, 1939 to the late Margaret (Morrow) and Frederick Pearce. He was married to the late Olga Pearce for 51 years. He grew up in Rhode Island where he enjoyed boating, fishing, and large family gatherings. As a young man he worked at Wakefield Branch Company and car dealerships in Rhode Island. In 1974 he moved to Ohio where he continued to work in car sales for over 40 years.
We remember him as a kind and generous man with a big heart, who took great pride in his family and never missed a game, recital, or celebration. The memories he made and the memories he shared will always be cherished. We will always remember his amazing stories about Salt Pond, and the knowledge and compassion of the man we will forever hold in our hearts.
He is survived by his children; Marie Lemr (Jeffrey Lemr) of Mentor, OH, Dianne Pearce (Alexander Lakatos) of Concord, OH, and Jack Pearce Jr. (Chrystel Pearce) of Beloeil, BE, grandchildren; Joshua Lemr (Jennifer) of Mentor, OH, Eric Lemr (Katie) of Mentor, OH, Aleesha Hearn (Adam) Painesville, OH, Kaila Turovsky (Michael) Painesville, OH, Logan Pearce and Lani Pearce of Beloeil, BE, great-grandchildren; Julie Brzeczkowski (Tyler), Maxwell Lemr, Austin Lemr, Jaelon Holliman and Miquel King, great-great-grandchildren; Seth Brzeczkowski and Audriana Brzeczkowski. He is also survived by his siblings; Ruth Johnson (Walter) of Exeter, RI, Frederick Pearce Jr. of Peace Dale, RI, Brenda Stadnick (Richard) of Wakefield, RI, Connie Taylor (Russ) of Exeter, RI, Suzan Menihan (William) of North Kingstown, Barry Pearce of Wakefield, RI. He was preceded in death by his siblings, Margie Giles of Peace Dale, RI, Thomas Pearce Sr. of Peace Dale, RI, Judy Jordan of Wakefield, RI, and Kathy Mullins of Peace Dale, RI.
The family will announce memorial services at a later time.
John "Jack" Loth
John "Jack" Loth, 70, died unexpectedly August 29, 2020 at his home. He was born December 17th, 1949 in Painesville, Ohio to the son of Robert Loth and Doris (Smith) Loth. Jack graduated from Harvey High School, class of 1969. He was a house painter for his entire career and recently retired. He leaves behind his devoted wife of 28 years, Tina (Hockman) Loth, his daughter, Denise Ball, step-daughter, Rhianon Norton, 5 grandchildren, 6 great-grandchildren, sisters Jane Kaim (Frank), Julie Carducci along with many nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his brother, Joe Loth Sr. A Memorial Gathering will be held Sunday September 13th at 2:00 P.M. m at Hellriegel's in Painesville for family and friends.
Gretchen A. Weigel
September 25, 1967 - August 24, 2020
Gretchen A. Weigel (Edwards) 52 years young, passed Monday, August 24th, 2020 surrounded by her loved ones. She was born in Willoughby, Ohio on September 25th, 1967. She is preceded in death by her parents, Jack and Bernice Edwards. She is survived by her husband David, son Joshua, and daughter Jenna; brother John F. Edwards and sister Dawn Schutz (Edwards). Even as her illness took over, she always made sure her time was spent with family, this meant many Saturdays at the racetrack. Gretchen enjoyed spoiling her nieces and nephews, watching her children grow into independent adults and taking naps with her beloved puggle Eddie. No matter where she worked through the years whether it was Partylite or as an activity director she never failed to put smiles on other’s faces and always had people gravitating towards her. Gretchen was determined to bring her family closer even when things got harder. Her beautiful golden aura will be dearly missed.
Family, friends and those lives who were touched by Gretchen can join us at KNOLLWOOD CEMETERY, 1678 Som Center Road Mayfield Heights, for grave side service at 11 a.m. The cemetery is requiring social distancing and masks.
Roberta "Bobbie" Cavallaro
Roberta “Bobbie” Cavallaro age 83 of Mentor, OH passed away peacefully August 28, 2020.
Bobbie grew up and spent the majority of her life surrounded by friends and family in Northeast Ohio. She was a warm, caring, loving, nurturing and compassionate woman. Her heart knew no bounds by those who had the opportunity to know her and she always tried to bring a smile to others around. She became an avid traveler later in life and spent a few years living in Garden City, SC where she was an active member of the Red Hat Society as well. She had a love for music, the Cleveland Indians and enjoyed watching her children and other family members participate in their various sporting activities and concerts whenever she could.
She leaves behind her children; Denny (Alejandra) Eldredge, Susie Eldredge and Shari Eldredge, her grandchildren; Allishia Harala, Shawn Ramey, Angela Ramey, Noah Ward, Dylan Ward, Vanessa Eldredge, Jessica Eldredge, Anthony Eldredge, Matt Eldredge, Justina Waterman, Tristin Baker, Mia Eldredge, Veronica Eldredge, Boo Eldredge, along with many great grandchildren, extended family members and friends who loved her dearly.
She is now reunited with her twin daughters; Tina and Lisa, Her siblings; Jackie and John, her husband; Larry, and her parents; Gilbert and Virginia.
A celebration of life will take place on September 9th, 2020 from 3-4:30pm with a small service to follow at 4:30 at Blessings Cremation Center and funeral home located at 9340 Pinecone Dr., Mentor, OH.
Devin G. Perry
Devin G. Perry of Eastlake, Passed away suddenly at home on August 25th, 2020. He was born in Cleveland, Ohio to Tara (Devecky) Perry & Gertis Perry.
Devin always had a zest for life and always had a smile on his face that could charm anyone, he could put a smile on anyone's face. He loved the lake and enjoyed fishing. He was a Loving Son, Brother and Nephew as well as a friend to many. Devin was loved by so many people.
He is survived by his Mother Tara Perry, Father Gertis Perry, Sisters Demetria and Kenyada and brother David Perry, Grandmother Estee Perry, Aunt's Michelle Devecky & Pam Huling, Uncle's Anthony, Michael and Luther Perry.
Devin was preceded in death by his Grandparent's Edward & Shirley Devecky, Mack Perry and Uncle Mitchell Perry.
A Celebration of Life will be held for Devin on Sunday September 6th, 2020 from 2-7 at 60 River Drive, Eastlake, Ohio.
Michael Edward Ratcliffe
Michael Edward Ratcliffe, 66 years old, of Painesville Twp Ohio, died Friday, August 21, 2020 at TriPoint Hospital in Concord, Ohio.
Michael was born January 6, 1954 in Central Falls, Rhode Island, to the late Edward J. Ratcliffe and Mary L (O’Neil) Ratcliffe. He moved to Mentor, Ohio when he was 4yrs old, and graduated from Mentor High School. He attended Miami University and majored in accounting. Michael married Stephanie Bressler on June 11, 1977 and they were married 43 years. He has been a resident of Mentor and Painesville Twp for the last 35 years.
Michael was a biological, adoptive and foster father to over 50 children and spent his lifetime advocating for them. He was proud to call 17 of them his very own. He started his career, in 1978, as a Water Treatment salesman for DuBois Chemical in Cincinnati, Ohio and went on to form his own Water Treatment Company which he ran until he retired in 2019.
Michael enjoyed politics, renovating houses, comedy, fishing, and, cooking and planning Holiday meals for his large family and friends. He was known for his sense of humor and his kindness to anyone in need.
Michael leaves to cherish his memories:
His wife, Stephanie (Bressler) Ratcliffe
Sister, Judy (Chuck) Molnar; Uncle, John (Joyce) Ratcliffe
Children, Tim (Jamie) Ratcliffe, Molly (Joe) Doeing, Katie (Chawezi) Kumwenda, Amanda Ratcliffe, Donald Ratcliffe, Sylvia Ratcliffe, Dawanna Ratcliffe, Bob Ratcliffe, Dolly Ratcliffe, Jay Ratcliffe, Tara Ratcliffe, Dany Ratcliffe and Kenny Ratcliffe
Grandchildren, Haley Ratcliffe, Leo Ratcliffe, Samantha Doeing, Leah Kumwenda, Elijah Kumwenda, Angel Ratcliffe, and Muranda McCumbers, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other loving relatives, and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward J and Mary L Ratcliffe and his children, Charles Ratcliffe, Antoinette Ratcliffe and Zackary Ratcliffe.
A Memorial Gathering will be held on Tuesday, September 8, 2020 from 5pm – 7pm at Lake Metroparks Concord Woods Pavilion 11211 Spear Rd, Concord, Ohio 44077
Ronald G. Wiley
Ron Wiley was a gentle soul. Almost universally, upon hearing that Ron had died, people said that he was a kind and generous man. In a world where we have school and community initiatives to teach kindness, Ron demonstrated it throughout his life, every day and to everyone. Is it a coincidence that one of his favorite snacks was a Kind bar?!
After bravely battling prostate cancer for over four years, Ronald G. Wiley passed away on Tuesday, August 18, 2020 in Mentor, Ohio surrounded by members of his family and the Hospice of Western Reserve. He was just shy of his 74th birthday at the time of his death. Per Ron’s request, no visitation or services will be held.
Ron is survived by his daughters Rebecca Toney and Jennilyn Wiley; his grandson Luke Toney; his siblings Rosanne Case (Jack), Rita Krylow (John), Robert Wiley (Joan), and Raymond Wiley (Carol); and his friend and former spouse Marianne Wiley. He is predeceased by his parents Leonard and Betty (Elsasser) Wiley and his brother Richard Wiley.
Ron graduated from E. E. Root HS in North Royalton and earned a BS in electrical engineering from Fenn College (now Cleveland State University). While working for FirstEnergy in Cleveland as an engineer and computer programmer, he earned a MA in economics at Case Western Reserve University. Throughout his career he held similar roles at Perry Nuclear Power Plant and at Interdesign in Solon, and also did freelance accounting and financial advising.
Ron loved both travel and photography and spent a number of his post-retirement years travelling the southwestern and southeastern U.S. in his RV taking pictures and sharing them with his family. He was an avid reader with six different library cards and usually had stacks of library books checked out at any one time. While he enjoyed movies (especially when watching with his grandson), he preferred PBS programming and never met a nature show he didn’t like. He also never turned down an opportunity to go out to breakfast with friends or family, and the pancake breakfast at the Burton Fire Department was a perennial favorite.
He endeared himself to everyone he met through his volunteer work with the Hudson Library and Historical Society and the American Cancer Society’s Pan Ohio Hope Ride (bicycling), as well as numerous organizations he was actively involved in including hiking groups, the Stow Senior Center, and the Stow Community Farmers Market.
His daughters want you to know that Ron loved having daughters and he supported them through major life events as well as the everyday moments. He sang to his girls at bedtime, taught them how to mow the grass and to drive (and how to change the oil), attended their graduations, proofed resumes, hugged them often, and photographed every single moment of their lives!
His grandson most remembers that Grandpa Ron was always happy, and loved to play racquetball and wallyball with him at the Kent State Rec Center during spring break trips. Prior to visits, Ron would always stop at the library and find selections that might interest Luke, and thus introduced him to some of his favorite books and authors. The Georgia Sea Turtle Center was a place that produced a special bond and they have fond memories of sharing time there together.
In lieu of flowers, his family asks that you make a contribution in Ron’s name to your local parks or library system...organizations that held a special place in his heart.
In honor of his gentle nature, please do something nice for someone else...and go visit your local farmers’ market next Saturday morning!
Samantha R. Schleger
Samantha R. Schleger went home to Jesus on August 18th 2020 at home with her mom by her side after a 12-year battle with cancer. Family and friends visited and sat vigil for 2 weeks prior.
Samantha lived in Geauga County, Ohio most of her 29 years, 6 months of her teen years were spent with her sister, Cassie, on O’ahu, Hawaii.
Samantha graduated from Cardinal High School. Due to her illness, much of the credit for her success in graduating was the result of her determination along with help with assignments from Coach Eric Cardinal and Jan Black.
Samantha joined the Catholic faith in 2019 and attended St. Helen Catholic Church in Newbury, Ohio. She loved Father Jay McPhillips and one of her confirmation instructors Jim Hogan and they also loved her very much.
Samantha loved life! Her favorite phrase (philosophy) was “Laughter is the best medicine!” She loved stories of her childhood and sayings that her Grampa B used to say. She packed a lot of experiences, love for family and friends, and travel into her life. She loved Hawaii, traveled to Italy with Cassie, cruised to the Bahamas with Lisa and Cassie, and loved Florida, South Carolina and Virginia. She especially loved the beaches and felt much comfort from the sunshine. She loved her little nieces Clara and Camille beyond measure. She loved all children and children loved her right back! Her favorite Bible verse was Phillipians 4:13 “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me!” Many times, throughout the past 12 years that was put to the test, but her faith only grew stronger with each trial. She assisted in feeding and ministering to the homeless with the Helping Hands Ministry from St Paschal Baylon Catholic Church in Highland Heights. The team members said she was such a natural as she prayed with individuals on the street.
Preceded in death by: Maternal grandparents, John A & Mary G (Ramsey) Brezo, her paternal grandparents, Milton E & Caroline M (Sharwark) Schleger, her Uncle Dale A Schleger, and adopted dad Mark Brockway.
Survived by: The love of her life, Patrick J Germano, Jr,
Bestfriend, pal, and confidante and awesome caregiver: Emily Brockway
Parents: Sue (Brezo)(Schleger) Lohri (George), Jeff A Schleger
Adopted mom: Jen Brockway
Sisters: Lisa Schleger and Cassie Kins (Damian), and her much loved nieces, Clara and Camille Kins,
Aunts: Pam Taylor (Jeff), Lee Costanzo (Rick), Nancy Molnar (Wayne), Patty Humr (Bob), and Donna Brezo-Nasr
Uncles: John Scott (Diane) Brezo, Bob Brezo and Nick (Dena) Brezo
Numerous first and second cousins, and last but not least her bulldog, fur-baby, Angus Gunther Schleger
Samantha requested that we all remember her in our joyful gatherings, and not in mourning, so there will not be a funeral service.
Any donations in Sam’s name can be given to local woman’s shelters or animal rescue shelters or Helping Hands Ministry at St. Paschal Baylon Catholic Church
Beatrice A. Prall
Beatrice A. Prall, age 83, died peacefully on August 16, 2020 in Mentor on the Lake Ohio and will be buried in Willoughby Memorial Gardens Cemetery. Bea loved cooking for family and friends and hosting holiday celebrations. Her favorite pastimes were watching the Cleveland Indians, casino trips and all things Elvis. At Bea’s request there will be no service or calling hours. In lieu of flowers, treat yourself to a lottery ticket in her honor.
Dennis John Kostal
July 19, 1958 - July 19, 2020
Dennis John Kostal passed away suddenly July 19, 2020 due to complications with diabetes. He was 62. Born July 19, 1958 in Painesville, Ohio, he was the only child of Mary and Frank Kostal. He was raised and spent most of his life in Concord Township. Dennis attended Riverside High School where he played football, and he continued his education at Auburn Career Center where he earned his Associates Degree in Industrial Electronics. For 28 years he worked as a maintenance technician and field service engineer in the CNC machining industry. Dennis had a profound love for God and would help anyone in need. He loved spending time with his family, children, and grandchildren, as well as cooking, grilling and hosting family picnics. In his younger years he enjoyed sightseeing, traveling, hiking, exploring caves, working out, weightlifting and staying fit. Also, he played on the Cleveland Falcons semi-professional football team. Dennis is survived by his daughters Linette Waltz (Joseph) and Camille Kostal; his son Jeremiah Kostal; and his six grandchildren Kyle Reider, Kelsey Reider, Andrew Reider, Cameron Cutler, Natalie Cutler, and Blaise Kaseda. He was preceded in death by his mother Mary Kujansu and father Frank Kostal; his brothers Joseph (Ilene) Costal and Frank Costal; his sisters Beatrice (William) Laux, Joan (Lorne) Williams and Jean (Henry) Timme; and 13 nieces and nephews.
Dennis was cremated and will be laid to rest with his mother at Concord Township Cemetery in Concord, Ohio.
Lawrence Groves
The family of Lawrence (Grover) Groves of Cleveland, Ohio is saddened to announce his passing on Thursday August 13 2020 at the age of 64. Beloved son to Joann and the late Floyd Groves. Raised by the late Herman Lempeck. Father to Grover Morgan of Wickliffe, Ohio and Andy Morgan of Florida. Cherished Grandfather to Hayley, Alexis, Gabriella, Sean, and Rayah. Loving brother of 9 uncle and great uncle to many.
Lawrence worked for the City of Parma for many years. He was a free spirit who enjoyed life at any cost. He enjoyed getting on his Harley and just riding. He would do anything for anyone. He was known for just calling you and telling you he loved you and hanging up. He enjoyed sitting outside listening to music. He was one hell of a guy.
Forever remembered by his Brother Jamie Groves and his sister Cathy Groves.
Private family services were held.
Amanda L. Neal
Amanda L. Neal age 37. Born into this world on August 24, 1982, and passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on August 7, 2020. Cherished daughter of the Carlin Roe and the late Wanda Neal. Amanda adored her fiance Tito, who cared for her, and loved her up until the day she passed. Devoted mother of Desirae Diaz, Kayla and Dennis Schade, and Ayden Neal. Loving sister of Micheal, Larry, Jessica, and Matthew. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later day. Please share a memory of Amanda on the website, and always remember she will live on in your hearts forever.
John Vecchione
John Richard Vecchione of Eastlake, OH age 88. Passed away peacefully on August 7, 2020. Beloved husband to the late June (nee Rice). John was a U.S. Army veteran serving in the Korean War and was a POW survivor. He was a lifelong resident of Eastlake, and worked at Hillwood Manufacturing. Later on in his life he worked for Willoughby-Eastlake Schools, where he was best known as “Mr.John.” John was the best lunch aid to the students at Thomas Jefferson. Cherished Son of the lateThomas and Laura Vecchione. Brother of Thomas, Roger, John L, Carmella, Marie, Violet and Ida. Loving father to Pat (Jeff) Silversteen, John (JoAnn) Vecchione, and Richard (Michelle) Vecchione. He was a devoted grandpa (PaPa) to Amey (Mike)Piks, Aaron Greenlee, Jamie (Jeff) Verdone, Jordan Vecchione, Michael (Nicole) Vecchione, Nicholas Vecchione and Megan Laycock. Great grandpa to Caleb and Abby Piks, Vinny Verdone, Jaxson Vecchione, and Timothy Ewing III. John loved watching The Cleveland Indians, scratching off lottery tickets, playing bingo and spending time with his grandchildren. There will be no service.
Aaron Daniel Whittington
Aaron Daniel Whittington (Dan) passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 2, 2020 at The Hospice of The Western Reserve. Dan was born December 21, 1931 to the late George Earl and Anna Sara (Landy) Whittington. Dan was the beloved husband of Ineke (nee Ravestein) and the dear brother of Ardith Palmer. He was the loving father of Hillary Henry (Andrew Shapiro), Rod Whittington (Michelle), stepfather of Tammi Sharp and Grandpa of David Henry, Alyssa Whittington and Ian Whittington.
Dan was an American History buff, he enjoyed visiting museums, and he loved British Mysteries. He was always happy to share an entertaining joke or story. A graduate of the Painesville City School system, Dan enlisted in the Navy. He served on a repair ship during the Korean conflict and was stationed in Japan. After serving in the Navy, he received a Bachelor’s of Business Administration from The Ohio State University in 1959. Dan worked as an insurance adjustor for Buckeye Union Insurance company before enrolling in Law School, graduating from the Cleveland-Marshall College of Law in 1965. He practiced personal injury/civil litigation representation for 54 years, fully retiring in 2019. Dan served as a trustee of the Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Association.
Dan was a member of AA for over 36 years. He believed in paying it forward, and as an AA meeting leader and sponsor, he mentored others to help them find a different path in life.
In lieu of flowers, donations are suggested to Alcoholics Anonymous, The Hospice of The Western Reserve, or an animal rescue charity of your choice.
A celebration of his life will be announced in the near future.