Joan J. Epperson

Joan J. Epperson age 91 of Virginia, resided in Mentor. Passed away peacefully surrounded by her son Stephen and his wife Marchelle on May 3, 2021. Devoted wife of the late Ralph. Cherished grandmother of 3, and great-grandmother of 3. Loving sister of Ralph.

Joan was a parishioner for over 45 years at East Heisley Church of God. A Memorial Service for Joan will be held at a later date. Please check back on our website, for more information.

Ronald Paul Singer

Ronald Paul Singer, 78, of Willowick, OH passed away April 1st 2021. 

Ron served as a Sgt. in the United States Marine Corps. He enjoyed fishing on Lake Erie and spending time by the Chagrin River with family and friends. 

He is preceded in death by his father Hyman, and mother Alvira (Poor). He is survived by his wife Nancy (Haske), children; Rhonda (daughter), Ronald (son) and his wife, Katie (Jonke). He is also survived by his siblings; Caroline Singer and Kathy Nicoulin; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Family and friends are invited to attend a Celebration of Life gathering on Saturday May 1st from 1-4 pm at the VFW Post 9295 located at 8682 Mentor Ave, Mentor, OH 44060. www.blessingcremation.com

Josephine "Helen" Welch

Josephine “Helen” Welch (nee Madarena-Tenney) age 88, of Painesville. Passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on March 30, 2021. Loving daughter of the late Nicola and Janet She was preceded in death by her husband Floyd W. Welch, her son David A., and her daughter Cheryl A. Welch-Ford.

Devoted mother of Janet L. Welch-Butcher (Eugene A. Butcher, Jr.). Grandmother of five children, and great-grandmother of Aubrea and Chase.  Cherished sister of the late Arthur and James Madarena, Floyd A. David A., Kimberly Welch, Alison Welch (deceased), and Steven H. Ford Jr. 

Helen loved being with her family, and friends. Everyone loved to see her smile, and it would light up any room. She enjoyed crocheting, making, jewelry, and other family members that truly loved her, and her as well. Donation may be made in Helen’s name to Bella Hospice. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

Joshua Bowman

Joshua Bowman age 36, passed away unexpectedly on Monday March 29th 2021. He was born June 27th 1984 in Gainesville Florida. He leaves behind his Mother Kelly (Vince) Linn, Father Bobby Bowman, Brother Matthew Bowman, Daughters Lexi and Hailey, Son Johnny, Step Brothers and Sisters Julia, Hannah, Emma, Kyle, and Jacob and many Relatives and Friends.

Josh was a Good-Hearted, Caring and Loving Son, Brother and Father who will truly be missed. He is preceded in death by his Grandparents John and Carol Kurkowski, Cousin Jamie Kurkowski, Aunt Tammy Frey, Great Grandmother Vernie Bowman and his best bud BJ. There will be a Celebration of his life held at a later date.

Carol Adams

July 4, 1951 - March 25, 2021

Ms. Carol Adams of Willoughby, Ohio passed away at the age of 69 on the morning of March 25th, 2021. She transitioned peacefully at David Simpson Hospice Center in Cleveland Ohio after a challenging journey with Pancreatic Cancer that began in 2019. 

She is survived by her three loving children: Nick, Brian, Kimberly, as well as Kimberly’s husband Greg, her two grandchildren Lyla and Renee, and her three brothers, Greg, David, and Lawrence and their spouses.

Carol was born in central Pennsylvania to Walter and Dorothy Adams. She attended The University of Pittsburgh, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree. She went on to obtain a Master’s degree from Kent State University and enjoyed a multi-decade career as a Speech and Language Pathologist where she worked in various settings including schools and nursing homes. She spent the latter half of her career devoted to improving the lives of students with special needs at the Positive Education Program (PEP) Phoenix Day Treatment Center, located in the Greater Cleveland area. Her work brought her great joy and purpose through the calling of helping others.

In her free time, she found continued joy and peace throughout her life from spending time with her family, and through her spiritual following. She found solace in her beliefs of metaphysics and spirituality through practices like Reiki, Spirit Guide Readings, and her faith in angels. She enjoyed being outdoors surrounded by nature and water. Her final days were spent in a room with an incredible view looking out over Lake Erie, in the company of her loving children.

Carol’s children plan to host a gathering in the Cleveland area for anyone who wishes to celebrate her life around the 4th of July. 

Margaret Howell

Margaret “Marge”  (Rockocy) Howell, age 88 of Mentor died suddenly on March 21, 2021.  She was born August 20, 1932 in Brownsville, PA to George and Theresa Rockocy.

Marge was a Mentor resident for more than 60 years. She resided with her daughter Kathy and son-in-law, Patrick Leber, for the past 6 years where she enjoyed her favorite homemade soups and ethnic dishes.  Marge also loved splitting a beer (on ice) and watching her favorite nature, HGTV and Food Network shows.  

Marge is survived by her children, Michael (Kathy) Howell, Theresa (Neil) James, Patricia (Richard) Naumann, Kathleen (Patrick) Leber and Robert (Jennifer) Howell.  Devoted grandmother to Krista Epperson, Joe Schauer, Katie Schauer, Haley Leber, Jake Leber, Connor Howell and Megan Howell.  Great grandmother (Gigi) to Dylan Epperson, Shaubriana Pratt and Joey Schauer.

She is also survived by brothers Michael Rockocy of Willoughby and Steven Rockocy of Brownsville, PA and many nieces and nephews.

Marge was preceded in death by her parents, husband Philip Howell, grandson Michael Howell and siblings John Rockocy, George Rockocy, Andrew Rockocy, Mary Drabicki, Anna Mae Green and sister-in-law, Theresa Rockocy.

A private service will be held for the family at All Souls Cemetery.  

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in her memory to the Lake Humane Society, 7564-E Tyler Blvd., Mentor, OH  44060, or online at www.lakehumane.org

George R. Tompkins

George R. Tompkins of Mentor, passed away on March 14, 2021. Son of George D. and Colette Cook. Beloved partner of Karen Dhondt. Loving father of Jeremy Tompkins, Amber Ruland (Josh), Cory Althar deceased, widow Crystal Montgomery, and Jennifer L. Althar. Cherished grandfather of Tristan, Eric, Louis, Halleigh, Zarielle, Rowan, Shaianne, Chayton, Bree, Tyler, Lucas, Jamie, Erin, and Anthony, Great-grandfather of Chayton Jr., Declyn, and Brynlee. Brother of Mark A., George D., William, and Kim Tompkins, Richard, Eric, and Karen Cook.

Services will be announced at a later date, please check back on our website.

Larry Nemeth

Larry Nemeth age 64, of Painesville. Passed away unexpectedly on March 9, 2021. Beloved son of Frank and Margaret Nemeth (nee Szabo). Cherished father of Jason Nemeth (Jennifer). Loving grandfather of Jaylyn, Jessica, Julienne, Jensen, and Joseph Nemeth. Dear brother of Frank and Ron Nemeth. Cherished uncle, great uncle, and cousin to many beloved family members. Larry graduated from Riverside High School in 1975, and he drove truck for much of his life, and was an avid Cleveland sports fan. Family will receive friends April 10, 2021 at Noon for a Celebration of Life for Larry at Freedom Assembly of God, 5420 West Heisley Road, Mentor, OH 44060.

Patricia Miller

January 5, 1948 - February 27, 2021

Patricia Lynn Pritchard Miller, 73 of Mentor Headlands Ohio. Patricia was born on January 5, 1948 in Ranger WV and departed this life on Saturday February 27, 2021, after a lengthy illness. She is survived by her three sons, William Pritchard, Eddie Schultz, and Scott Schultz; siblings, Earl McNeely, Tony McNeely, and Sherry Sweeney; eight grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; numerous nieces, nephews, and all who loved her dearly. She always loved her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren and was always supportive and encouraging, always wise and kind as she held us in her heart. She will live in a special place in all our hearts forever. She will continue to light the world long after she has gone. Preceded in death by her parents, James Arthur Pritchard and Nora J Pritchard (McNeely); her loving daughter Denise Raunegger (Miller); brothers, Danny and David McNeely. 

There will be no services. Her Ashes will be blessed by pasture Zimmerman who baptized Patricia at her home.

The family wishes to express their sincere appreciation for the sympathy, comforting words, prayers and all expressions of kindness and concern. 

Mary Ann Panko

Mary Ann Panko, age 76, of Mentor, Ohio passed away peacefully on Monday, March 8, 2021.

She was born in Cleveland, Ohio on September 2, 1944 to the late Walter and Mary Galinsky.

She enjoyed bowling, gardening, taking walks with her dog and especially spending time with her grandchildren.

Mary Ann was a selfless, loving wife, mother and grandmother who devoted her life to her family.

She will be dearly missed by all those who knew and loved her.

She is survived by her daughter Christine (David), sons Dennis (Renee), Brian (Christine), seven

grandchildren and brother Frank (Judy).Preceded in death by her loving husband of 55 years Dennis

and her sister Florence.

Cremation by Blessings Cremation Center. Private burial will be held at Willoughby Cemetery.

Masako Dornbos

After an eventful life of 89 years, well-lived, and well-loved, Masako Dornbos passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by family, on March 8th.

Masako was born in Osaka, Japan the eldest of seven children. She spent most of her childhood helping with her siblings as her mother was blind. Growing up during WW2 gave her an amazing appreciation for the "little things" in life.

In 1958 Masako was a hostess at a small town restaurant in Yamato, Japan. This is where she would meet the love of her life Paul, where he was completing his term in the Marine Corps. They were married in 1959 and three years later came to the United States, to raise their newborn daughter, Donna.

Masako was very proud to have become a U.S. Citizen in 1971.

Masako spent her life as a homemaker and a 54 year resident of Wickliffe, Ohio. Masako was devoted to caring for her home, animals, garden, and most importantly her family.

She had a love for shopping, purchasing beautifully ornate clothing, custom jewelry and unique things that had "meaning" to her. She and husband, Paul, spent many years traveling to rock quarries, the chagrin river and attending gem and mineral shows, looking for beautiful stones and fossils.

Masako was blessed with a very large family in Japan. She spent time throughout her life traveling back and forth to visit, introducing her family and meeting new family members, sightseeing, and eating all of her favorite foods!

Masako's greatest joy was spending time with her family and making memories. She was so proud of her three grandchildren and great grandson. Caring for each of them throughout their lives. Times well spent playing, cooking/eating, drinking hot tea, enjoying nature, frequenting local buffets, traveling, along with taking photos of each of those moments.

From her childhood in Osaka, Japan to her adult life in Wickliffe, Ohio, she always gave honest life advice, made everyone laugh and was kind to everyone fortunate to meet her. She was strong, determined and a fiercely independent woman. We will miss her so much, everyday.

Masako was preceded in death by her mother Harue Kawawaki, father Kamekichi Kawawaki. Three brothers Masakazu Kawawaki, Masao Kawawaki, Kazuo Kawawaki. Two sisters Asako Doi, Yasuko Nishitani.

Masako is survived by her loving husband of 62 years, Paul Dornbos. Beloved daughter Donna Dornbos. Loving grandchildren Bryan Kralj, Katie Selerowski, Toran Trbovich. Special great grandson Jayden Villanueva. Sister of Toshiko Inoue. And a host of nieces, nephews and cousins in Japan.

The family expresses appreciation to the doctors, nurses and home health care team of UH Richmond Medical Center. A special thank you to the palliative and hospice staff at Traditions Health who provided invaluable care.

A private celebration of life will be held.

Dorothy A. Moran

Dorothy A. Moran (Watts) age 87, passed away peacefully on March 5, 2021. She was a lifelong Lake County resident, and was preceded in death by her parents: Joseph Watts and Lillian Zaller Watts. Loving sister of the late Richard Watts. She leaves behind family and friends who will miss her greatly. Private family services were held.

Michelle Drury-Floran "Shell"

February 10, 1967 - February 18, 2021

Michelle “Shell” Drury-Floran, 54, passed away on February 18, 2021 at Geauga Medical Center in Chardon, OH. She was born on February 10, 1967 in Willoughby, OH. Michelle was a long-time resident of Willowick, OH where she spent her childhood, had a family of her own, and dedicated the majority of her adult life to giving back to the community. Michelle will be remembered by many for her devotion to education and for the impact that she made as a teacher at Royalview Elementary School. She was passionate about reading and learning, and she poured her heart into the task of fostering those same passions in her students. One of Michelle’s favorite quotes was, “You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think,” a sentiment that she often shared with her daughters and her students, and would want all whom she loved to remember. 

Michelle “Shell” is survived by her parents, James (Diana) Drury and Kathleen Ritter (nee Cochran); her brother, Michael (Heather) Drury; her daughters, Marissa (Nathan) Rawlins and Meghan Floran.  She also leaves behind many cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.

In honoring Michelle’s wishes, there will be no public services. The family will hold a private memorial service on a later date.   The family suggests donations be made to your favorite charity or through performing acts of kindness in Michelle’s memory.  May you find comfort in the last line of the A.A. Milne’s quote, “even if we’re apart… I’ll always be with you.”

Ruth Ann Carswell

November 1, 1948 - February 27, 2021

Ruth Ann Carswell (Hannigan) was the eldest daughter born to the late Alvin E. Hannigan and Thelma Ina Hannigan at Booth Memorial Hospital in Cleveland, OH on November 1, 1948. She was educated in the Euclid City School System. She was known to family and friends for her love of arts & crafts, gardening, and baking. She loved her pets (also referred to as her FUR babies). She attended Dyke Business College where she obtained an Associates Degree. On Saturday, February 27, 2021 Ruth received her call saying “Your season is now. Come ye blessed of my Father.” Ruth went home to be with the Lord. She leaves to cherish her memory: her devoted children, Christopher Allan and Elise Nicholle; sister, Linda Hannigan and a host of loving relatives and friends. 

Our family wishes to express our sincere gratitude to those who have supported us during this time of loss!               Christopher & Elise

Rhonda Yaxley

Rhonda "Roni" Fae Yaxley, 69, passed away peacefully at home on March 5, 2021. Mother to Tim (Dana) Rhyand and Paul Rhyand; loving grandmother to Henry and Sylvia Rhyand; sister of Ruth (Jim) Sweet, Bobbi Boger, Rita Lynn, and Robin (Terry) Leigh; Aunt to many nieces and nephews; and friend to many. She is preceded in death by her parents Dorothy and Raymond Yaxley; brother-in-law Jerry Boger.

Roni grew up in Cleveland and attended Shaw High School. Roni graduated from Bowling Green State University, taught at St. Justin Martyr, and finished her teaching career in the Euclid City School District. She was a dedicated teacher and loved children. She was a long time resident of Willowick.

Roni has been described by those closest to her as spunky, adventurous, and an all around "Happy Camper." Roni lived every day to it's fullest. She adored being a mother and viewed life through her own childlike lense. She was always the first to volunteer to be part of her kids' activities. Later in life she loved spending time with her grandchildren; baking, teaching them to knit, and playing games with them. Roni loved traveling and camping, basket weaving, stamping, and many other crafts. In her retirement, she loved spending her days enjoying her hobbies and laughing with her friends. She was an avid birdwatcher and Geocacher and loved the places these hobbies would take her. She loved visiting parks and exploring new areas. Roni enjoyed each day and filled them with the people and things she loved.

Donald L. Querry

Don Querry, 60, of Madison, Ohio passed away on March 5, 2021 at Cardinal Woods Nursing Home surrounded by his family. He was born November 22, 1960 in Painesville, Ohio. He served in the United States Marine Corp. and the United States Air Force from July 9, 1979 – February 3, 1992 before being honorably discharged. He then drove truck for over 20 years only stopping when he was unable to continue doing so.

Don was preceded in death by his parents Clinton Sr. and Marjorie, his brother Roger and nephew David. He is survived by his brothers Kevin and Clinton Jr, sister Traci, daughters Barb (Josh) Ziegler, Taunya (Tim) Johnson, Debra (Bill) Reznak, son Jason (Dayna) Querry and 9 grandchildren as well as many nieces and nephews.

Services will be held at a later date.

Dale W. Harvey

March 23, 1939 - February 27, 2021

Dale W. Harvey passed away peacefully on February 27, 2021 surrounded by family. Dale was born on March 23, 1939 to Dewey &   Cornelia Harvey. He loved being around his family, grandkids and great grandkids. He absolutely loved riding them around on his John Deer tractor. Dale was a very dedicated hard-working man, he worked for 43yrs. at Ekart America and also had a 2nd job. He enjoyed Bingo, bowling, and the building things in his garage. Nothing ever slowed him down. His whole world was his beautiful wife. Dale & Kathy were married for 61 years. He is survived by his children: Annette Harvey, Gary Harvey, Shari Harvey (Drago), and Daron Harvey; brother Nobert Harvey. He was preceded in death by his parents, Dewey & Cornelia Harvey; siblings, Ted, Francis, Lenny, Jerry, Chuck, and Wilda; son Jamie; and in -laws Delbert and Pauline Hoffman.

" We little knew the day that God was going to call your name. It broke our heart to lose you, but you didn't go alone. For part of us went with you the day God called you home."

Lawrence B. Lengel

Lawrence B. Lengel age 77, of Painesville Township. Passed away peacefully of a short illness on March 2, 2021. Beloved husband of 54 years to Donna (nee Hegler). Loving father of Sherry Simon, Larry Lengel, and Julie Maestle (Shawn). Cherished grandfather of Jessica, Carly, Samantha, Avery, Stephen, and Trey. Great-grandfather of Constantine, and best friend to his Furry Companion Katie. Lawrence proudly served his country in the United States Navy. He enjoyed fishing, motorcycle rides, walking, the beach, but most of all spending time with his family. He will be remembered for his silly sense of humor, and his unconditional love for his family. Private family services will be held.

Eleanore L. Lanzilotta

Eleanore L. Lanzilotta entered into eternal rest on February 27, 2021. She was born to Florence and Aloys Stombrys May 12, 1931 in Cleveland. Eleanore was a homemaker with her favorite past times of Bingo, Cards, and her animals. She is survived by her daughters Marianne (Dr. Marc), Dinga and Linda Lanzilotta. Also Eleanore had 8 grandchildren, and 2 great-grandsons. Loving wife of the late Frederick, and cherished sister of the late Donald Stombrys. A private burial will be planned in the near future for Eleanore and Fred with family.

John Doeing Jr.

John R. Doeing Jr. of Painesville Township, age 65, passed away February 24, 2021 at Ahuja Medical Center in Beachwood, after a month long battle with complications from COVID-19. He was born July 12, 1955 in Painesville to John Sr. and Gertrude M. (LeBail) Doeing.

John was a Graduate of Riverside High School where he was a member of the marching band. He was a Firefighter for Painesville Township and worked at Lubrizol in Painesville for many years. He later worked many years for Crile Rd. Hardware and Concord Motor Sports where he developed a special bond with his fellow employees and customers.  He was employed at Lowe’s in Willoughby when he went into the hospital with COVID-19.     

Throughout his life he enjoyed roller skating, cross-country skiing, bowling, golfing, signing with the church choir and performing solos at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, where he was a truly dedicated member, elder, and served on the church council.  He was highly respected by the church, its members, and the community where he lived and worked.  

John is survived by his daughter, Jennifer Dowd of Painesville; son, Joe (Molly) Doeing of Painesville; granddaughter, Sam; and brother, Rick (Debbie) Doeing of Madison.

He was preceded in death by his Wife of 44 years, Kathy Jo Doeing, whom he married October 1, 1976 in Grand River; and parents John Sr. and Gertrude M. (LeBail) Doeing

A Memorial Service for John will be held at a later Date yet to be announced (due to family health concerns and COVID-19) at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, 250 Bowhall Road, Painesville Township, Ohio.  In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be sent to St. Paul’s Endowment Fund.