Donald L. Briganti

Donald L. Briganti age 56, longtime resident of Mentor, and recently resided in Fairport Harbor. Donald passed away on July 29, 2022. Son of the late Beverly D. Briganti and Vito A. Briganti Sr. Husband of the late Carole Briganti. Cherished father of the late Stephen Christopher Briganti. Loving brother of Vito A. Briganti Jr., Brian M. Briganti, and Michelle D. (Briganti) Barber (Antwon Barber). Uncle of Vito A. Briganti III and Ashley M. (Briganti) Coogler (Ben Coogler). Great uncle to Brandon, Nathan, and Westen Coogler. Donnie had a smile that would light up the room. He was always funny, charming, and a good listener. He adored and loved his family and friends, enjoyed spending time with them, loved cooking, loved being Italian, and loved his Italian Heritage roots. He will be deeply missed by all, but will forever remain in their hearts.

Thomas Angelo DeAngelis

Thomas Angelo DeAngelis

Born May 8 1966 passed away suddenly July 28,2022.

Beloved twin of Anthony loving brother to Gina and Debra (Randy) Karlovec.

Being a Buddhist Tom was a kind and gentle soul who had a vast wealth of knowledge including but not limited to music, science, history, astronomy two of his biggest passions were global warming and climate control.

Tom loved all genre's of music some of his favorite artists were pink Floyd, miles Davis, Grant Green, Jethro Tull David bowie and countless others.

Two quotes Tony would like everyone to remember Tom by:

1 point me at the sky

2.E=mc2

Tom was a loving uncle to, Jessica, Tom, Chris,Matt and Adam.  And a loving great uncle to Johnny, Tommy, Andrew and Natalie. 

Tom was processed in death by his parents Thomas and Carol his great nephew Christopher and great niece Harper.

A celebration of life will be announced at a later date.

CHARLENE BOROM

Charlene Borom age 83, passed away peacefully on July 21, 2022. She is survived by her daughter Lesli Borom. Cherished grandmother of Ciara and Sharawn Borom. Great-grandmother of Cianna-Marie Borom. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at a later date.

Virginia L. Smith

Virginia L. Smith (nee Morrison) age 84, passed away on July 18, 2022.  Loving wife of the late Henry Smith.

Cherished mother of  Mark (Shelly), Dean (Anne), and Rick Morrison. Devoted grandmother of 7, and great-grandmother of 5. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at St. Luke's Episcopal Church 11519 Wilson Mills Rd. in Chardon, OH on Sunday, August 7th, 2022 at 1:30pm.

Sharon Lee Sokolowski Bolin

Sharon Lee Sokolowski Bolin of Cleveland Ohio, passed away unexpectedly on July 17th, 2022. She was born to the late Arlene and Walter Sokolowski. Preceded in death by her daughter Tammy, her beloved siblings Valerie, Eddie and Wally, and the love of her life, Michael Bolin. Cherished sister to Kim Sokolowski, mother to Tina, Michelle (Chell-Z) & Chris, step mother to Michelle (CD) and Jessica. Adored by her grandchildren, Alex, Rachel & Stefan, Anthony & Karlan, Lexi & Noah, and her great grandson Honey. Beloved Aunt and stand in mom to Shauna, Jennifer & Jessica and cherished aunt to many, many more nieces and nephews.

Ahead of her time, Sharon Bolin was a fierce champion of equality, progressivism and love, undefined by boundaries. An incredibly giving and caring daughter, wife, mother, aunt, grandmother, and dear friend, she spread joy, empathy and compassion to all that she touched. 

She lived her entire life in service of others. Being the oldest of seven children in her family she was eternally the big sister making sure everyone was clothed and fed and cared for while living her own life and began motherhood as a young teenager. She always had such an incredible work ethic and was valued everywhere she was ever employed. In her young adulthood with her own children in toe, she had a childcare business out of her home and cared for numerous children over the years. She called them her “babysittin' kids” and loved them and their parents as her own family. She worked later on at Elaine Powers as a fitness instructor and made such a big impact on so many women’s lives. She worked at MedNet Euclid Clinic in the late 80’s into the 90’s also making lifetime friendships with many of her co workers. 

She went on to her longest held career at UniCare (Human Arc/Centauri) and helped the Cleveland community in need. She was the utmost dedicated and invaluable employee of the company she championed for 31 years. The company name may have changed a few times over the years but she did not waver in her devotion, even having license plates on her car that read “UNIMOM” because she truly was everyone’s mom at her company as well. Being on the “entertainment committee” she made sure EVERYONE always felt welcomed and included in an integral part of a larger cause. She made sure birthday cards and well wishes, holidays and events were enjoyed by all and she won “Best Costume” for Halloween many times sharing her creativity and joy for the things she loved. She truly was a child at heart and loved making others laugh and smile. She helped at women’s shelters, helped organize Habitat for Humanity events, bowled in leagues for charities, and too many other community supported festivities to list.

Sharon became fast friends with anyone and everyone she met. She was sassy and funny and wore her heart on her sleeve. She called herself SharonBolin as if it were one word and everywhere she went she always complimented people to make them feel better and have a bright spot in their day. She was a neighbor friend and grandma figure anyone would appreciate and always looked out for all of them. They became dear to her heart and she accepted them as part of her family as they did the same for her. Birthday parties, weddings, Christmas and the holidays were parties she loved to host and welcomed everyone with gifts and food and always a great time. She consistently opened her home as a safe haven and place to get on your feet for multiple family members and friends over the years everywhere she lived. Her most recent home that she was very proud of and made her heart so full and content was no exception. She couldn’t bear the thought of someone in need and the words “she saved my life” were so familiar and precious that our responses became “That’s just what she does.” She loved all things Elvis Presley, Looney Tunes, Harry Potter and adored her butterflies and roses. Above all, she took great pride and shared with complete enthusiasm her immense pride in those she held dear to her heart.

Per Sharon's wishes she did not want funeral services, only a Celebration of Life Party which will be held in the fall.

Zita B. Knific

Zita Knific (nee Berardi) age 81, passed away peacefully on July 14, 2022

She was recognized for excellence in teaching and winner of several teaching awards in both Florida and Ohio. Mrs. Knific ended a 42 year teaching career at Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin School in Chardon where she was involved in several co-curricular activities. Remembered for her optimism and enthusiasm, her mantra was, “Listen to the song of life!”  She genuinely loved her students yet demanded they perform at their
highest potential.

Upon retirement she pursued her interests in various community volunteer programs, membership in several book clubs while maintaining her friendships with colleagues and making new friends. She loved
attending the theater, reading, traveling with her husband and friends, gardening and exercising.

She is survived by her children Randolph (Karen), Thomas (Renata) and Donald, grandchildren John (Christine), Jean, Carrie (Rob Fischer), Christopher, Nina, and David, and great grandchildren Samuel, Benjamin and Rose (John and Christine Knific).

According to family wishes, there is no wake and funeral services are private.
In lieu of flowers, please support Hospice of Western Reserve, Lake County Humane Association, the charity
of your choice or perform an act of kindness in her name.

Spencer (Alison) Mahoney

Spencer (Alison) Mahoney age 32, peacefully passed away on July 10, 2022, after a courageous battle with ALS. Born to the late Catherine Giddings. Cherished sister of Tricia Balogh, Crystal Gates (husband Jeramie), and Jessica Balogh. Niece of Susie and Jim Denis, and Michael Rampy. Aunt of  Riley Gates, Laynie Gates, Dayna Eaton, and soon to be born Baby Bair. Devoted cat parent to Nala, Nuggy and Mickey. 

Spencer was a fierce spirit who had a strong will. They wanted to make a mark on this world before they departed, and fought for what they believed in, where they made their voice heard, and gave support to others. The LGBTQ+ community and people with disabilities, was a very important part of Spencer's life to encourage others to always fight for your rights, and understand your worth. One of the most important parts of Spencer's life was the love they had for animals, but especially cats.  If there is one thing in life to take away from knowing Spencer is that where there is love there is life, support one another, and stand up for what you believe in. Spencer had a hilarious sense of humor, that brought so much joy into so many peoples lives. Spencer's wishes were to spread roots even after their passing, and their ashes will be grown into a lilac tree, the family will hold a memorial service in the spring. Donations may be made in Spencer's name to the ALS Association.

Ronald T. Mervo

Ronald T. Mervo of Mentor, Ohio passed away on July 8, 2022. Son of the late Joseph and Helen Mervo in Cleveland. A graduate of Cleveland State University, Ron was a CPA and worked for the U. S. Treasury Department for 32 years, retiring in 2000. He is survived by his wife, Theresa, whom he married on September 7, 1974, daughter, Michelle Hovencamp (Mark), grandsons Luke and John Hovencamp and brother, Kenneth.. He was preceded in death by his son, Adam. Ron was a lifelong practicing Catholic. Private interment and services will be held at a later date. Donations in Ron’s name can be made to a charity of your choice.

Floyd W. Crouse

Floyd W. Crouse age 74, of Mentor, passed away July 7, 2022. He was born on November 22, 1947 in Gamoca, WV to the late Lloyd and Dorothy Crouse. Floyd worked for AirMaze/Donaldson Company for over 25 years as a machinist.

Cherished husband of the late Christine E. Crouse (nee Evans). Devoted father of Theresa Crouse-Thoeni, Brian (Laurie) Crouse, and Michael Crouse. Loving grandfather of Alyssa (Richard) Durdak III, Matthew Crouse (fiancee Katie Burkey), Noelle and Christa Thoeni, and Autumn Crouse. Great-grandfather of Braelyn and Rick IV. He is also survived by siblings Evelyn Lucas, Bruce Crouse, Craig Crouse, and childhood best friend Bob Lucas. He will be greatly missed by his trusted loyal friend, and faithful canine companion Max.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his infant son Matthew L. Crouse.

Private Family services will be held at St. John Vianney Church Mentor, OH. Inurnment at All Souls Cemetery, Chardon, OH will be held at a later date followed by A Celebration of Life.

Kathleen E. Cortes

Kathleen E. Cortes (nee Brown), of Eastlake. Passed away on July, 5, 2022. Loving mother of Lillian Cortes, Jennifer Franzke, Obed Cortes Jr., and Olivia Cortes. Devoted grandmother of Michael Anderson III, Nevaeh Anderson, Mya Cortes, and Vada Franzke. Kathleen was a dear friend to many, and will be missed by family and friends. Celebration of Life will be held Saturday July 16, 2022 from 1:00-3:30 P.M. at Veterans Park in Mentor, OH.

Dennis Lawrence

Dennis W Lawrence, 70, of Painesville, Ohio passed away July 4th peacefully at home in the presence of loved ones. Dennis was born to Dorothy (Larned) and Albert Lawrence. 

Dennis was a hard working businessman who devoted most of his professional life to Kismet Rubber Products where he started sweeping floors in the 70's and ended as Owner/President in 2008. From there he moved on to become Lake Health's most beloved maintenance man. He was known and loved for his easy going sense of humor, passionate landscape and lawncare abilities, and selfless hospitality. 

Dennis is survived by: his wife Nola; daughters Taunya Lawrence and Sarah Benedum.

Grandchildren Nikky, Sydney, Talyor, Hope, Olivia; Siblings David (Valerie), Albert (Rosemarie), and Donald

Nieces and Nephews Edward (Lindsey), Pamela (Will), Diana (Frank), Denise (Lenny), Daniel (Swazeek), Joseph (Michelle), Michael (Janet) and many other loved ones. He is preceded in death by his parents Dorothy (step-father Paul Hvizda), Albert, Step daughter Sonya Sheppard, and grandson Corey Atkinson.

Please join us as we celebrate his life in his favorite outdoor sanctuary at his home Sunday, July 24th 1:00P.M.-5:00P.M. Contact Sarah at 440-413-9671 for address if needed.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Seidman Cancer Center

Rory L. Ackroyd

Rory passed away unexpectedly July 4, 2022. He was 51.

Rory was a husband, father and grandfather. He was a U.S. Army veteran having served in Operation Desert Storm. He was employed for more than 15 years with Dirt Devil and UPS.

Rory leaves behind his wife, Lisa Ackroyd (nee Legg), his children, grandchildren, parents Barry and Patricia (nee Penny), sister Neva and husband Paul, brother Seth, and friends.

A Memorial Service will be held at Willow Praise Church, 32901 Vine St., Willowick, on July 9 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.

In lieu of flowers and cards, donations to the church are appreciated. A private burial will be held at a later date.

Edmund P. Busch Jr.

Edmund P. Busch Jr born September 16, 1958 passed away on July 1, 2022. 

Ed was a simple man who loved his family and friends. He was the first to help anyone if he could. He was a good father and an even better Grandpa. He was always listening to music and he would sing the last song he heard in his car all night. Especially if it was Metallica.

He is survived by his mother Judy Kozlowski, brother Tim (Amy) Busch,  sisters Cindy Busch, Melissa Busch, Kelley Belfiore. His children Gary (Nicole) Busch, Gabrielle Busch, Jenny (Nick) Szczerbaty, Meranda Raney and Tommy (Ashley) Raney. Grand children Gary Jr, Anthony, James, Katelyn, Gavin, Layna, Dj, Zakaria, Sir'Savion, and Brayden. And countless nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews. 

Mr Busch is proceeded in death by his Father Edmund P. Busch Sr, his wife of 30 yrs Melanie(Bongalis) Busch, his brother Tom Busch and sisters Joanne Busch and Kim Busch.

Please join us for a celebration on life on July 16th 2022 from 3pm-10pm at 32701 White Rd in Willoughby Hills. 

Richard Lindic

Richard Lindic, age 80, of Eastlake, passed away on June 27, 2022. 

He was born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio, to parents John and Christine (Mezgec) Lindic. He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Juanita (Snider); and his brother, Thomas. He is survived by his son, Damon, and his sisters, Linda Cwiok and LaVerne Julian.

Richard was a Collinwood Railroader and graduated in 1960.  He was a veteran of the armed forces and retired from Meyer Products.

 At Richard's request, there will be no funeral or memorial service.

Denise M. Dowling

Denise M. Dowling passed away on June 19, 2022. Loving wife of Paul Dowling. Devoted mother of Leann Devine, Austin Devine, stepdaughters Rachel Rennie and Jennifer Dowling. Cherished grandmother of Haleigh, Adriana, Jeffrey, Charlie, Camilla, and Calista, and many, many friends. Celebration of Life Service will be held Saturday July 9, 2022 at Mentor Beach Park, 7779 Lakeshore Blvd., Mentor Ohio 44060 from 1:00P.M.-5:00P.M.

Sally Kirk

April 23, 1950 - June 4, 2022

Sally J Kirk, age 72 and Loving mother of Stan (Anita); grandmother of Zachery, Kelsey, Brandon, Gavin and Giavana; dear sister of Jim Kirk (Vicki); loving aunt to many nieces and nephews, and friend of many died peacefully on June 4, 2022.

Services were held on Monday, June 13, 2022 at 5 pm at Strongsville United Methodist Church, 13500 Royalton Road, Strongsville, OH 44136. Burial at Quick Community Cemetery, Quick, WV.

In lieu of flowers, the family ask for donations to be made in Sally’s name to The Gathering Place, www.touchedbycancer.org

Patricia A. Park

Patricia A. Park of Eastlake, OH age 88, passed away June 10, 2022 surrounded by her loving family. Wife of the late John Park. Loving mother of Tacy Dooley, Melissa King (Gary), Michelle Cater (Bob), Karen Dooley, John Park, Patti DeBenedictus. Devoted grandmother of 15, great-grandmother of 28, and great-great-grandmother of 1. Cherished sister of James Park of Bellefonte, PA, and her sister-in-law, Naomi Hill (Dave) of Euclid, OH. Dearest friend of Red and Shirley. She will be missed dearly and left a mark on everyone’s heart that knew her. Pat was an artist. Her beautiful paintings will hang in the homes of family and friends, and bring joy and happiness to have a part of her always. A Private inurnment will be held at a later date.Donations may be made in Patricia’s name to Alzheimer’s Foundation of America, 322 8th Avenue, 16th Floor, New York, NY 10001. Checks should be made payable to “Alzheimer’s Foundation of America.”

Ruth Shepherd

Ruth “Nana” Shepherd

  In loving memory of Ruth “Nana” Shepherd, age 90; of Kirtland, Ohio. Ruth left her earthly home at 12:04 a.m., on Sunday, June 5th, 2022. She passed peacefully in her sleep, just 7 days after her 90th birthday.

    Ruth was the amazing mother to Karen Shepherd Thomson and Debbie Shepherd Pahner ; Beloved Grandmother to Sara LoConti (Thomson); joyous Great Grandmother to Jeffrey. Ruth was the dedicated eldest daughter of Ed Shepherd and Sarah “Patsy” Shepherd. Ruth was the faithful eldest sister to Edward Shepherd Jr., Lowell Shepherd, Randy Shepherd, Alice Faye Shepherd, & Clell Shepherd who preceded her in death. She is survived by Patty Shepherd Newmeyer, Cora Shepherd Hall, Tom Shepherd, Colin Shepherd, & Sharon Shepherd Mead.

     Ruth was born in Floyd County Kentucky on May 29th, 1932. Ruth was a woman of many accomplishments during her lifetime. She actively pursued education to obtain her LPN nursing license. Ruth built a lucrative business breeding Boston Terriers. This enabled her to rescue countless dogs and find their forever home.

      Family was everything to Ruth. Her doors were always open to any family member in need. She loved her family dearly and would do anything for them. Ruth loved her garden. She continued the family legacy of growing the heirloom green beans (white half runners) and hillbilly tomatoes.

     Ruth was the great matriarch of our family. The grief from her loss is unmeasurable. In lieu of flowers, please donate to your local animal shelter in her honor, so that her legacy may continue.

Barbara G. Kato

Barbara G. Kato, age 90, of Fairport Harbor, Ohio, passed away on June 2, 2022, after a brief illness, surrounded by her loving family. She passed with grace and peace.

She was born in Huron County, Ohio, the cherished daughter of Gerald Gilbert and Gertrude Emma (Adams) Gilbert. She was the devoted wife of 54 years to Robert A. Kato, Sr. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband and her brother, William Gilbert.

Barb is survived by all her beloved children, Robert Andrew Jr. (Colleen), Robert William (Linda), Michael Paul (Janet), Michael James, George (Donna), Denise O’Donnell (Jack), Kim (Rob Law), Kathy (Dave Hill) and her adored grandchildren Joe and Elizabeth Graham, Kyle and Connor O’Donnell, Kristi (Bert Karlovec), Tricia (Chris Young), Jacque Kato, Allison Lenze (Traver), and several great-grandchildren.

Barb graduated from Norwalk High School and received further business management and technical training. She began her career working in the 1940s, in her mother’s restaurant near the Castalia Blue Hole, Erie County, Ohio. Barb then worked as a hostess and waitress at McGarvey’s in Vermillion, Ohio, where she was voted Ohio’s Most Photogenic Sales Hostess from the Ohio State Restaurant Association. She was promoted to management and opened a new restaurant with the owner of McGarvey’s in Grand River, Ohio. In the 1960s she opened, staffed, and ran the Beachcomber which was one of the best seafood restaurants in Northeast Ohio. She then worked with her mother and opened a pizza parlor and bakery in Mentor Headlands. She then went on to work for the Lake County Sheriff’s Office and worked under Sheriffs Cunningham, Walsh, and Dunlap. She ran the Traffic/Accident Division and remained there for 30 years. She retired at the age of 79.

Tireless, devoted, never complaining, loved people, was a friend to many. Anyone that met her, loved her. She treated all equally with grace and compassion. She loved her Lord and Savior and lived a life of faith, hope and charity, embracing the values of the Catholic Church.

Barb was a member of the Western Reserve Yacht Club, president of the WRYC Ladies Auxiliary, president of the Western Reserve Grand River Chapter, and president of the International Satin Gavel. She was a Red Cross long-time blood donor with a total of 20 gallons.

There will be a memorial Mass on Saturday, July 9th at 11 a.m. at St. Anthony of Padua, 316 5th St, Fairport Harbor, OH. The family will receive friends at 10:30 a.m. at the church. There will be a reception at the Slovenian Club, 617 3rd St, Fairport Harbor, OH, from 12-2 p.m.

Memorial contributions should be made to St. Anthony of Padua or Elara Caring Hospice, Mentor, OH (5966 Heisley Rd, Ste 100, Mentor, OH).

Donald L. McGill

Donald L. McGill age 73, of Willowick. Passed away on May 25, 2022. Loving son of the late Paul Ronald McGill and Mary Mullins. Brother of the Late Ronald Lee McGill. Cherished uncle of Paul E. McGill. Close family friend of Becky McGill, and Gary Smith. Don leaves behind his furry companion Buster. Don was an electrical engineer, and retired from Tecmark. He was a graduate of Eastlake North High School, and also graduated from NIT. Don was a retired decorated veteran, who proudly served his country while stationed in Vietnam with the U.S. Army. Private family services were held. In lieu of flowers donations may be made in Donald’s name to the ASPCA, PO Box 96929, Washington, DC 20090-6929.