OBITUARIES
A Remembrance of Loved Ones
Alberta Belle Peairs
Alberta Belle Peairs, age 97 of Middlefield, Ohio passed away on Friday October 23, 2020 at Maplewood Senior Living facility. She was born December 12, 1922 in Orwell, Ohio to the late David and Ida (Hurd) Moore. She graduated from Middlefield High School in 1941. Alberta married Clinton Peairs on February 16, 1944. They resided in Middlefield, OH where they raised their three sons and ran their family business, Peairs Excavating. Alberta was a member of the First United Methodist Church of Middlefield and the Ladies Auxiliary of the Burton-Middlefield American Legion. Prior to her arrival at Maplewood, Alberta loved spending time with family and friends, being with her dog Sam and watching the birds outside her window.
Alberta is survived by her grandchildren, Charles (Carmella) Thompson, Stephen (Lisa) Peairs, John (Tim Susi) Peairs, Michelle Peairs, great-grandchildren Grace Thompson, Kross Peairs and many nieces and nephews. Alberta is proceeded in death by her parents, siblings, husband Clinton and her son’s William, James (Linda Peairs) and Lawrence.
At Alberta’s request there will be no public service, she will be laid to rest at the Middlefield Cemetery next to her husband and sons at a private service.
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Alzheimer’s Association.
Wendy M. Wright
Wendy M. Wright (nee Mathews), 54 years old, passed away unexpectedly at Metro Hospital on Friday October 23, 2020. She was born in Willoughby on November 2, 1965. She was a Wickliffe Graduate Class of 1984. She enjoyed collecting lighthouses, snowmen, pelicans, and cooking. We all loved and will miss her famous spaghetti and meatballs. With deepest sorrow in our hearts she leaves behind Joanne; (Mother), Son Robert (Elizabeth) Wright , Daughter Mollie (Garrett) Graham, Evan Wright (Grandson), Elizabeth (Sister), Amber Mathews , Erica Davis, and Calleigh Jeffers, (Nieces); and Hensley Hood (Great Niece); Michael Davis, and Karen Bock (Best Friends); Aunt, Ruthie and other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her grandparents Sarah Mathews, Lewis and Helen Johnson, her brother Wayne Mathews, Aunt Arlene and Cousin Paul. The Memorial Service: November 6, 2020 from 6:00-7:00 P.M. at Blessing Cremation Center, 9340 Pinecone Drive, Mentor, OH 44060. Facial coverings will be required during the service. www.blessingcremation.com
Tracy J. Gallaher
Tracy J. Gallaher "Big T" age 62, owner of Tracy's Last Chance Garage in Wickliffe. He was born in Euclid graduate of the year '76 and resided in Mentor. Passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on October 21, 2020. Loving husband of 43 years to Velma (Mae Long). Devoted father of Nicole D. Gallaher (deceased), and Tracy Jr. (Kayla). Cherished grandfather of Brayden. Brother of Jeff Gallaher. Tracy was a beloved mechanic who loved his cars. He was also a bowler for the Willoughby Eagles mens league. Donations may be made to the Gallaher family through the gofundme account link provided: https://www.gofundme.com/f/remembering-tracy-big-t-gallaher
Gerald Shinkaruk
Gerald Shinkaruk age 64, resided in Kent, passed away on October 21, 2020. Loving father of daughter Nicole Hester (grandchildren Geovanni Hester, Ava Hester)
Jacob Shinkaruk (grandchild Mariella Shinkaruk)
Victoria (Joe) Shanes (grandchildren Noah, Liam, Anastasia Shanes), and son David Shinkaruk. Gerald was a lover of music, wood and leather crafting, cars & motorcycles, fishing/hunting
Cherished brother of Carol Zatko, Gloria Jean Grayson, Andrea Griffin, Ronald Shinkaruk, and the following deceased: Timothy Shinkaruk, Kathleen Shinkaruk, and Elaine Sabol.
Gerald was Preceded in death by his Parents Lillian (nee Miklus)and Andrew Shinkaruk.
Private Services were held.
Guy Walker
Guy Walker, age 68 of Mentor, Ohio. Passed away on October 18, 2020 at home. Beloved husband of Yvonne for 42 years. Dearest father of Jamie and Michael. Guy was the son of the late Guy and Lyda Walker. Cherished brother to Debbie and Linda Walker and the following deceased: Larry and Gary.
Guy lived a simple life. He was a very humble and kind hearted man. He loved his family and friends very much. After retiring from The Lincoln Electric Company, Guy enjoyed camping, fishing, music, woodworking, being outdoors, and playing guitar.
A private service will be at a later date. A celebration of his life will be next summer with a tree planting in his backyard.
William J. Kessler
William J. Kessler, age 88 died at home, of natural causes, surrounded by his family on October 15, 2020. William is survived by his loving wife, Helen of 63 years; his daughter, Helen Holbrooks (Richard) of Painesville; son Bill (Patty) of Painesville; and his son, Terry (Yvonne) of Fairport Harbor. He is also survived by four grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. William was born July 14, 1932 at home. William was a great family man, and a loving father. William loved going to the casinos and gardening. He will be greatly missed. A Memorial Service will be held in the spring.
Michael J. Kolish
Michael J. Kolish passed away October 14, 2020 at Lake West Hospital in Willoughby surrounded by family. He was born March 19, 1983 in Mayfield Heights. He was a life long resident of Willoughby and lived in Willowick.
Michael was one of the most kind hearted, genuine, and beautiful souled person, in which everyone who met and knew him loved him. He impacted many lives and always left a powerful and positive impression. Michael is known by “Bird” to many family and friends.
Michael loved to play poker and was an avid sports fan, especially football and loved being with family and friends.
He is survived by his mother Karen Schabel Kolish, father Michael (Cindy Sekston) Kolish, sister Alicia Kolish, Aunt Rose Marolt, Uncle Keith (Cindy) Kolish, Uncle Ed (Amy) Schabel, cousins Keith, Jessica and Samantha, and special friend, his fathers and stepmothers dog, Sadie.
He is preceded in death by his paternal grandparents Michael and Margaret Kolish, maternal grandparents Ed and Evelyn Schabel, cousins Danielle Leigh David and Nicholas Kolish.
Celebration of Life at a future date.
Contributions can be made in Michaels name to a mental health clinic and/or a drug addiction center of your choice.
Anthony John Puskarich Jr.
Anthony John Puskarich, Jr., 95, of Willoughby Hills, Ohio, passed away on Wednesday, October 14, 2020, at his home. Anthony “Tony” was born on April 18, 1925, in Continental 1, PA, the son of Anthony, Sr. and Martha Puskarich. He lived for many years in Continental 1, PA, working at the family business, later moved to Cleveland, OH and then settled in Euclid, OH, with his wife Anne (Skudar) Puskarich. Tony, lovingly known as "Bup" to family and close friends, was a U.S. Army Veteran and a member of the American Legion. He worked for 35 years as a dispatcher at TRW in Euclid. Tony was a hard-working and loving man, and family was his world. His wise council, conversation and friendship will be dearly missed by his family and those lucky enough to cross his path.
Tony is survived by his daughter, Paula (Puskarich) Rosiek, three beloved grandsons of whom he was so proud: Stephen Rosiek (Michelle) of Oak Ridge, NJ; David Rosiek of Willoughby Hills, OH; and Timothy Rosiek (Susan) of Mentor, OH, and four adoring great grandchildren: Christopher, Danielle, Erin and Kristen Rosiek. He was preceded in death, in addition to his parents, by his wife, Anne (Skudar) Puskarich and his three siblings, Paul Puskarich, Frances "Toots" Shandorf (Puskarich) and Elmer Puskarich.
Tony's family is having a private memorial gathering. He will be cremated and laid to rest in Brownsville, PA, alongside his wife Anne.
Doris VanVechten
Doris "Dodie" M. VanVechten, age 83, passed away on October 8, 2020. Doris was a wonderful woman, and is survived by her loving husband John for 59 years. Devoted mother of Todd (Connie), John Jr. (Mary Ann). Loving grandmother of Kylie, Elizabeth, Sarah, and Johnny. She was a very loyal employee to Walgreens for 28 years. Doris loved casinos, cooking, the lottery, mystery movies, and most of all loved to laugh. She adored her two Yorkies, "Meeka and Sassy." Her husband and her family were very important to her. The Family will hold Private Services at a later date.
Andrea Gwendolyn Cossu
Andrea Gwendolyn Cossu (nee Wascovich) age 58, passed away October 2nd, 2020 in Cleveland, Ohio due to a 1 1/2 year battle with cancer. Devoted mother of Dreana Burnett, Samantha Hernandez (Pedro), Jon Cossu, Brian Cossu (Megan), and Brandon Cossu. Loving stepmother to Marie Bartolic (Clint), and Mandy Yurgalewicz (Robbie). Dearest daughter of Richard Wascovich. Cherished Gigi to 9 grandchildren and 1 Great-grandchild, that she loved with her whole heart. Andrea grew up in Mentor, Ohio and graduated from Mentor High School in 1981. She moved to Naples, FL to be near her grandchildren. Andrea moved back to Ohio when she received her cancer diagnosis to be closer to Lake Erie. She had a laugh that was contagious, and loved everyone in her life. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at a later date.
Donations may be made in Andrea's memory to the American Cancer Society https://www.cancer.org/involved/donate.html or Ohio Sea Grant.
Anthony J. Calvarese Jr.
Anthony J. Calvarese Jr. age 70. Passed away on September 29, 2020.
Loving brother of Viola Walters (Mike), David (Toni), Doris, Curtis, Laura, Timothy, preceded in death by Anthony Sr. and Laura, Sandy, and Dennis. Uncle of many nieces and nephews.
A Graveside Service will be held at Western Reserve Memorial Gardens at 11:00A.M. October 7th, 2020 at 11521 Chillicothe Road, Chesterland, OH 44026.
Helga Ilkanich
June 24, 1926 - September 11, 2020
Helga Ilkanich passed away peacefully on September 11, 2020, at the age of 94. She was born on June 24, 1926 in Estonia. She came to the United States at the age of 21 with her husband, Frank Ilkanich and spent most of her life in Mentor, Ohio. Helga enjoyed senior aerobics, swimming and volunteering at her church even until just a few years ago. Helga is survived by her daughters, Linda (Jim) Gilligan, Lisa (Cas) Rogala and Lana (Tim) Brown; grandchildren, Dr. Erin Ilkanich (Preston) Sparks, Dr. Paul Ilkanich, Mike (Erin) and Matt Gilligan, Lauren Callaghan, Rachel and Julia Rogala. Her son, Ron, died in 2012 and husband, Frank died in 2015. Helga will be cremated at Blessing Cremation.
A memorial service is not planned.
Wini Boepple
Wini Boepple (née Moore), 83, of Mentor, died Wednesday, Sept. 23, 2020, in Hospice at Heartland of Willoughby. She was born June 9, 1937, in Staten Island, New York and was a resident of Mentor.
Survivors are her husband, Bruce, to whom she was married for 41 years; daughters, Paula (Dale) Hayward; Kelli (Greg) Wisen; Erin-deceased (Fred) Lisching and sons, Paul Kirkpatrick, Shawn (Tereasa-deceased) Kirkpatrick, Thomas (Yejing Yang) Kirkpatrick, Rob (Tammy) Kirkpatrick, Tim (Lori) Kirkpatrick and Step-son, Adam (Amanda) Boepple.
She is preceded in death by a son, James Joseph, and daughter Erin Lishing. She was also a grandmother to 13 and Great-Grandmother to 9.
There will be no services per her wishes. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to Parkinson Disease Research at michaeljfox.org.
The Boepple Family would like to thank Hospice of Heartland of Willoughby, doctors and nurses who took care of her during these trying times we are facing, knowing that family could not visit her.
William R. Reidl
Reidl, William R.-William R. “Bill” Reidl 68, of Madison, Ohio passed away unexpectedly on September 22, 2020, at his residence. He was born February 05, 1952, in Painesville, Ohio, the son of Robert Reidl Sr. and Elizabeth “Betty” (Pallak) Reidl.
William married Darlene (Kujala) Reidl on July 12,2014, at their residence, surrounded by their closest family and friends. In life he enjoyed long drives through the country with his wife, celebrating all holidays, hunting with his brothers, summer evenings around a bon-fire with family and friends, country music, cook outs and working around his yard, most of all he enjoyed making up silly stories and helping his granddaughter with her cheerleading moves, playing, laughing and teaching his grandsons how to chop wood, build fires and evenings playing card games.
He is survived by his wife of 6 years, Darlene; Brothers, Andrew (Debra) Reidl; James (Cheryl) Reidl and Robert (Virginia) Reidl; Sister, Sharon (John) Weber; Nephews, Jim, Joe, Andy, Paul, Toby, Josh and Bobby; Nieces, Tina and Melissa; many great-nieces and great-nephews; Darlene's son Joshua (Nichole) Kujala; grandchildren, Greyson Mathews; Jacob Kujala; Ethan Kujala and Emma Kujala; as well as many close friends. He was preceded in death by his father, Robert Reidl Sr. and his mother, Elizabeth “Betty” Buckham.
Blessing Cremation Center is handling arrangements. A celebration of life will be held at a later date for Bills’ family and friends.
Judy Howard
Judy Howard 73, a lifelong resident of Geneva, Ohio, passed away September 21, 2020 under hospice care and in the comfort of her dearest friend's home, as she wished. She was recently diagnosed with an aggressive illness, and her journey here on earth ended too soon.
Judy was born in Geneva, Ohio on March 14, 1947 to her parents, Paul and Francis Howard. She was a Geneva High School graduate and held a variety of rewarding jobs during her lifetime. Judy was a loving, devoted aunt to her nieces, nephews, many cousins, and a very loyal friend to many. She lived life to her fullest through simple pleasures — chatting with friends and family, spending time with her nephews and nieces and many friends, and going on adventures to Middlefield. Her daily routine consisted of taking a drive around town. Judy's animals were her children. She devoted her time to her dogs and loved to take them to the Harpersfield dam. Many Geneva residents knew Judy as the sweet lady driving her dog Andrew around in her Honda. They went everywhere together.
Judy is also known for sending the most thoughtful personalized greeting cards and never missing a birthday. She even took phone calls to another level — always there for you. And she could make a friend in the checkout line with her friendly, warm ways. She will be missed by so many.
Judy is survived by her brother, Robert (Paulette) Howard of San Antonio, FL., and Judy’s nieces and nephews, and many cousins. She is preceded in death by her parents, Paul and Frances Howard, and her brother, Peter Howard.
There will be no service per Judy’s request. In Lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Ashtabula County Animal Protective League and/or Hospice of the Western Reserve.
Timothy Joe Hunley
Timothy Joe Hunley passed away peacefully on September 13, 2020 at the age of 76. He was born June 21, 1944 in Beaver Falls to Robert and Rosetta (Long) Hunley. He graduated from New Castle Senior High School in New Castle, PA. He served in the U.S. Army during Vietnam. He always enjoyed the outdoors. He mostly enjoyed being in the woods or on Lake Erie fishing and would be more than willing to share that love of God's creation with his family and friends.
Tim married his beloved wife on April, 15, 1978 residing in Youngstown, OH and later moving to Conneaut, OH in 2003 where they were able to be closer to the outdoors, wildlife and the lake.
Tim is survived by his brother Robert (Arlene) Hunley of Wisconsin and his niece Julie Hunley and nephew John Hunley. He is also survived by his step son Kurt (Laura) Butler, grandchildren, Amanda (Steven) Ott, Sean (Marissa) Butler, Lance (Allison) Butler, and Garrik Butler, and great granddaughter, Arianna Ott.
Tim was preceded in death by his wife and his parents.
Memorial will be private with immediate family.
Jack "Bud" Bishop
Jack “Bud” Bishop of Thompson, Ohio. Passed away peacefully on September 9, 2020. He is survived by his loving wife of 69 years, Olive Bishop (nee Morningstar). He was the proud father of 3 children, Kathy Stone (Daryl), Diane Bishop, and Scott Bishop. He was also the proud grandfather of Jodi Michener (Robert), and Lisa Bishop. Proud great-grandfather of Celia, Alan, Alexandria, and William Michener. Jack is preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, and grandson Steve Stone. No services will be observed.
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.