OBITUARIES
A Remembrance of Loved Ones
Shirley Carol Overturf
January 3, 1934 - November 28, 2022
Our beloved mother and the matriarch of our family, Shirley Carol Overturf, age 88, passed away peacefully at home, with her family by her side, on Monday, November 28, 2022. Loving mother of Richard Hatfield, Cheri Quill, Linda Ilacqua, Thomas (Sharon), and Jefferson (Michele); loving grandmother of Bobbie Lynn, Jackie, Heather, Brett, Michael, Kristina, Jefferson, Mack, and Rick “Cody”; Great-grandmother of Kylie, Keira, Alexis, Hayden, Jefferson, and Lexi; beloved Aunt of many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband Thomas Chester, parents William and Sophia Ringler (nee Ringer), son Richard Hatfield, daughter Cheri Quill, twin brothers Gerald and Herald Ringler, sisters Helen Halberg and Eleanore Karkoska. Shirley had a passion for reading and loved animals. Her biggest passion was walking and riding her bike. Shirley started her career later in life at age 39 when she decided to take her GED test. She scored “Top 10” in the United States and won a scholarship to nursing school. She then started working at the Cleveland Clinic (formerly Euclid General Hospital) where she worked for 25 years before retiring. For many years she walked or rode her bike every day to work. She worked in the Rehab unit where she made many lifelong friends. She was a kind, compassionate, and a caring nurse that truly loved her job and taking care of her patients. She never missed a day and worked every Holiday. But she still managed to cook a huge meal for her family to enjoy. She always said, “I love my job.” She also enjoyed going to garage sales to find unique things and antiques. Shirley leaves behind her most beloved furry companions her cat (Jack) and her dogs (Dottie Mae and Macho).
A special thanks to the kind and caring team at the Hospice of Western Reserve for their support and compassion.
There will be a graveside service and Celebration of Life in the Spring of 2023.
Alice Jane Shaffer
Alice Jane Mason Shaffer passed away peacefully in her home on Thursday, November 24th 2022.
She was the loving mother of Virginia "Ginny" and Jeff Lopick (deceased), and Gregory Shaffer. Dear Grandma of Joshua (Krystal), Emily (Parker) Porosky, Michael and Joseph, Great Grandma of Aidan and Kian, as well as a beloved Aunt, Cousin and friend to many.
Alice was preceded in death by her parents John and Belva Mason (nee Culp) and dear sister Hazel Petrovich (nee Mason) and brother John "Jack" Mason.
Per Alice's request, services and interment will be private. Arrangements can be entrusted to Vito Nero Funeral Home and Crematory.
After Glow by Helen Lowrie Marshall
"I'd like the memory of me
To be a happy one
I'd like to leave an after glow
Of smiles when life is done
I'd like to leave an echo
Whispering softly down the ways
Of happy times and laughing times
And bright and sunny days
I'd like the tears of those who grieve
To dry before the sun
Of happy memories that I leave
When life is done"
Viola A. Pergl
Viola A. Pergl, 95, of Garfield Hts. passed away peacefully on November 17, 2022. Beloved sister of the late Elsie Gerlica, James, and Joseph Pergl. Dear Aunt of Jane Gerlica (Robert Sorce), Carol Hren (Gerald), and John Gerlica (Jennifer). Viola was a loyal friend to many. Viola worked as an executive secretary at The Standard Oil Co. for nearly 40 years. She was a faithful Cleveland baseball fan, an avid reader who loved sharing books, as well as stories with friends. A prayer service will be held on January 28, 2:30pm, at St. John Lutheran Church in Garfield Hts. Interment private. Family suggests memorial contributions to Jennings Home for the Aged, 10204 Granger Rd., Garfield Hts. Ohio 44125.
Edith I. Dobrzanski
Edith I. Dobrzanski age 71, passed away peacefully on November 17, 2022. Loving mother of Frankie (Tina), Jarrells, and Tina (Frank) Olivo. Devoted grandmother of Eddie, Skyler, Ashley, Monica (deceased), Shyan, Austin, and Kaleigh. Great-grandmother of Austin, Jayden, Navara, and Laylah. Sister of Nick (deceased), Bob, and Meda. Cherished daughter of Denny “Happy,” Lester, and Virginia. The family will hold a Private Celebration of Life Service in the summer at a later date.
John A. Wronski Jr.
John A. Wronski Jr., age 65 passed away on November 14, 2022. Beloved husband of 40 years to Mona (nee Burrows). Father of Christopher G. Kowalewski, and Lorelyn H. Loepp (Timothy). Grandfather of 4, and great-grandfather of 1. Brother of Randall J. Grzeskowiak. Uncle of Kristen, Jeffrey, and Michael Grzeskowiak. John loved fishing, camping, and relaxing by a campfire with a drink. He was an avid viewer of street outlaws, and no prep kings. John would do anything he could for family and friends. He was dependable and reliable to those who ask. A Memorial will be held Sunday December 11, 2022 at Newburgh Heights Community Room, 3801 Harvard Avenue, Newburgh Hts., OH 44105 from 1:00-3:00P.M.
David H. Butts
David H. Butts was born on Valentine’s Day, 1943 in Charleston WV. He passed away peacefully on 11/13/22 at Hospice of the Western Reserve after a long battle with cancer.
David was a long time resident of Chardon, OH. He was a mechanic for Wally’s Gulf Gas Station and Cooke’s Marathon Gas Station. Dave had a lifelong passion for cars and loved to work on them. He even raced cars in past years at the local racetrack. He also was an avid fisherman, enjoyed flea markets and loved to tinker with clocks and watches. Dave was known for being able to repair grandfather and mantle clocks and was the go to for quick watch repair and batteries at his flea market stand in Middlefield for many years. He enjoyed spending time with friends and neighbors at his favorite hangout, the garage and patio area of the apartment complex where he lived for over 40 years.
Dave was preceded in death by his parents, Lewis and Evelyn, ex-wife Betty Lou Butts, his later life partner, Donna Lookabill, siblings Peggy Benton, Wesley Butts, Betty Layton, Roger Butts and son Donald Blodgett.
Surviving children include daughters Antoinette Vandenburg (Casey), Evelyn Zeiten (Jon), Catherine Thorne (Edward), D’Ann Camp, Carolyn Lookabill (Ray Poplyk) and son Scott Blodgett (Gail). 10 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren. He leaves behind a large extended family from Campbell’s Creek WV. Siblings include Caroline Martin (Sherman), Vincent and Ivan (Sandy).
Following cremation, Family will hold private services in both OH and WV.
“County roads, take me home to the place I belong….West Virginia”. Almost Heaven!
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The American Cancer Society, UH Seideman Cancer Center or Hospice of the Western Reserve.
Spencer C. Phelps
Spencer C. Phelps 87, Fairport Harbor passed away peacefully at home on November 12,2022 surrounded by loved ones.
Spencer “Slugger” was born on August 28th,1935 to parents Elmer and Edith Phelps and grew up in Mentor,Ohio before spending 34 years in Jackson MS.
After graduating from Mentor High School in 1953 he joined the army and served in Germany where he often ran into Elvis.
Upon returning to Mentor, Spencer started working at Lindsay Wire and worked there for 41 years.
In retirement Spencer worked at St.Dominic Hospital in Jackson Mississippi providing transportation and humor for patients and staff for 11 years.
Spencer was a proud member of Wells United Methodist Church in Jackson,Mississippi where he especially enjoyed the music.
Although he suffered from Alzheimer’s for over 10 years he never forgot his family or the punchline to a joke or to tell his loved ones how much he loved them.
Spencer “Papaw” was proceeded in death by his beloved step daughter Jennifer(David) Lyons, parents Elmer and Edith, brothers Robert,Jack, William,Gaylord, Layton and sisters Miriam Meyers, Maybelle Sutch and Patty Kowalewski.
He is survived by his loving wife of 43 years Elaine (nee:Sprague) his dear big sister Phrania Poole,step children Rob Ducsay(Johanna), Kim(Gary)Goellner,Denise Kern (Jim) ,Missie(Brad)Maloney and sons Bill(Joann)Phelps and David Phelps , 20 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.
The family would like to express their gratitude to Visiting Angel Caregiver Diane Wolff who took such wonderful care of Spencer, Elara Caring Hospice and their amazing nurses and finally the Fairport Harbor Fire Department who came to the rescue on more than one occasion.
A graveside service will be held at Mentor Cemetery on November 26th at 11:00 am with a celebration of life immediately following.
In lieu of flowers please donate to Elara Caring Hospice (ElaraFoundation.org) or Wells United Methodist food pantry (Wellschurch.org/ministries).
Eric T. Nero
Eric T. Nero age 30, passed away on November 10, 2022. Cherished son of Sheryl Nero, and Stepfather Eric Kennebrew. Loving brother of Ashley Crow, (Chris Kinsner), and Jessica Mabe (Matt). Uncle of Noah Kinsner, Evan Mabe, Ethan Mabe, and Kaylee Mabe. Eric enjoyed making people laugh,playing his guitar, and being a kid at heart. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at a later date.
Tag A. Koenig
Tag A. Koenig age 63 of Willoughby, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on November 8, 2022. Loving son of Sandy and the late Jay Koenig. Cherished husband of Deb Koenig (nee Krouse). Devoted father of Kevin Koenig, and Melissa Perme (husband Gabe). Dear brother of Kim Klein. Tag was a mechanical engineer, and a Pyro Technician Assistant. In his free time he enjoyed bike riding, camping, and being with his family. Private family services were held.
Evelyn Soke
Evelyn (Toot) Soke of Painesville Township passed away Monday November 7th 2022 at Tripoint Medical center. She was born August 14th 1949 to Lynn and Katherine Leslie. Evelyn enjoyed camping and spending time with friends. She devoted her life to her children. She loved to be with her family especially her grandchildren. She is survived by her children Frank (Katie) Soke and Erin (Donnie) Hughell. Her grandchildren Austin, Donald, Thomas, Andrew, Jayson, Gannon, and Evelyn. Her brother Harry (Marry Ann) Leslie. And many nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her parents and sisters Lynn Ruth (Earl) Ross and Georgia (Tom) Horton. A celebration of life will be announced at a later date.
Donna Marie Liebenauer
Donna Marie Liebenauer age 80 of Middlefield, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on November 6, 2022. Devoted wife of 59 ½ years to A. Charles Liebenauer Jr. Loving mother of Lora Liebenauer, and Lisa Evans (Dave), of Waterford, MI. Cherished step-grandchildren of Allison and Luke Evans. Donna was a homemaker who enjoyed visitors, and her memory will remain in her family’s hearts forever. Private family services were held. In lieu of flowers donations may be made in Donna’s name to the UH Seidman Cancer Center in Chardon, or Hospice of the Western Reserve, 17876 St. Clair, Ave., Cleveland, OH 44110.
Dolores Orma Mayer Tolhurst
Dolores Orma Mayer Tolhurst
March 20 1928 - November 1, 2022
In the early morning hours of November 1, 2022 (All Saints Day) Dolores left this life here for the life to come. Dolores was born March 20, 1928 to Charles Edward and Irma Valeria Saxon Mayer in Cleveland, Ohio. Her early years were spent in the Collinwood area, until her family moved out to Wickliffe where she graduated from High School in 1948, as Salutatorian of her class.
After graduation Dolores entered the field of cosmetology. She owned several Beauty Solons first in the downtown area. Here she met and interviewed her future husband Robert for a position at her shop. She married Robert in April of 1955. A few years later they opened Lakeland Beauty Solon on 200th Street in Euclid. She and her husband would go on to own another solon and a flower shop until they retired in 1996. Always creative she entered and won several competitions in cosmetology, while single and while married to Robert, throughout Ohio and the northeast area.
In retirement she and Robert were active in their church and other community groups. They traveled together. She enjoyed reading and kept herself busy with her home and sewing, she had many projects and enjoyed teaching “Stitch and Sew” in Mentor. She was always a student, she read everything given to her, including all medical information. On one stay in the hospital the nurses told us of her inquiring mind and the technical questions she posed to them after reading every instruction and piece of information they gave her. “If every patient were like her our job would be much easier.” Dolores was mentally sharp until the very end of her life.
The family (and Dolores) would like to thank Linda Walkowski and Judith Tolhurst for their work with Dolores. They put their lives on hold to provide all the extra loving care given to Dolores these last 5 months. Thank you both! To Crossroads Hospice nurses and aids for their wise and tender care, Thank you! We wish to express our deepest appreciation to Blessing Cremation Services for handling the arrangements, Thank you! Finally, to all of you who took the time to visit with Dolores either in person or by phone, those visits meant a lot to her. Thank you!
A memorial service, at her request, will be held on Saturday November 26, 2022 at 2:00 P.M. It will be held at The Salvation Army Cleveland Temple Corps located at 17625 Grove Wood Ave. Cleveland, Ohio 44119, [(216) 692-1388]. There will be a time of visitation from Noon until the time of the service.
Dolores and Robert will be interned at the Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery on Monday November 28, 2022 (at 2:00 pm), {with full Military rites for Robert} you are invited to attend if you are able.
Nicole Lynn Pitt "Cole"
November 28, 1992 - October 29, 2022
Nicole “Cole” Lynn Pitt age 29, passed away surrounded by her loved ones on October 29, 2022, due to injuries sustained in a car accident. Nicole was a devoted stay at home Mom to her precious daughters Autumn and Layla. Her daughters were her entire world and the love she had for them showed in all that she did. Nicole had a love for her family and friends and never really realized the impact she had on those around her. She was a die-hard Steelers fan, had a love for music, dancing, and just being silly with those around her. Even through her own struggles Nicole made sure that the people around her felt loved and taken care of. Her free spirit and fearless personality were adored and admired. Nicole was the loving mother to Autumn and Layla Taylor and girlfriend of Don Taylor. Loving daughter to Kevin Pitt and Gail Javins. Crazy loving sister to Garrick and Tom Pitt, and Elizabeth Javins. Aunt “TT”to Angelina, Alaina, Gage, Brantley and Tommy Pitt. Granddaughter to Sharon Jarrett and Gary (Virginia) Pitt. Niece to Janet (Paul) Draganic, Laura (John) Ciresi, Loria Estep, Rob (Kristi) Estep, Kim (Ron) Wombough, Jason Pitt and Larry (Karla) Jarrett. She also leaves behind many cousins, friends and loved ones. Nicole was preceded in death by her loving Grandparents, Larry Jarrett, Bill Estep and Marge Estep.
Nicole will be sorely missed by all that knew and loved her.
A Celebration of life will be held on December 3, 2022. The family will communicate the details as they are being finalized.
JAMES HEYDUK
In loving memory of Kenneth James Heyduk, age 62, who passed away on October 26, 2022, surrounded by his family. He was born June 4, 1960, in Cleveland, Ohio. Beloved husband of 43 years to Elaine Heyduk (nee Palange). Cherished father to Melissa Heyduk, Laura Heyduk (Anthony), Kathy Day (Justin) and Shannon Roberts (Evan). Loving Papa to Kenneth Uzarevic, Marija Uzarevic, Braylon Mitchell, Jameson Day and Eddie Day. Son of Sue Erdman and the late Edward Heyduk. Brother to Sue Chambers, Eddie Heyduk, Steve Heyduk and Maureen Heyduk. Kenneth was an avid Cleveland Sports fan. He enjoyed gardening, being outdoors and was a jack of all trades. He was proceeded in death by his father Edward Heyduk and brother Joseph Heyduk. A memorial will be held at a later date to be determined.
Robert Anthony Iacofano
ROBERT ANTHONY IACOFANO SR, age 75 of Mentor Ohio, entered into the light on October 24, 2022. Loving father of Robert Jr (Kathryn), Joseph, and Alicia. Devoted grandfather of Victoria, Jocelyn, and Grace Sutton. Dear brother of Biagio Jr. (Linda) and Ursula Muttillo (Louis). Uncle to many nieces and nephews. Son of the late Biagio Sr. and Rose (nee Pezzente). At 11:30 am on November 10, 2022, the family will be available to greet you at St. Gabriel Catholic Church, 9925 Johnnycake Ridge Rd. Concord Twp. 44060. The mass will begin at 12:30 pm.
Michael DeLuca
Michael DeLuca age 81. Beloved husband of Sharyn (nee Thomas); father of Michelle Bertino (Joseph), Renee Deluca Dolan (Mark); Mike also had step-children that he cherished as his own: Alan (Wendy), Michael, and Stacey (Robert); brother of Joanne Siford (Harold, deceased), Rosemarie D'Amico (William), and the late Patricia Michalko (Paul); grandfather of many, whom he loved dearly. Mike enjoyed gardening and golf. He retired after 33 years from the Lyndhurst Fire Department as a Captain. He will be forever missed.
PRIVATE SERVICES WILL BE HELD
Dorothy M. Barry
Dorothy M. Barry (nee Ash) of Mayfield Heights, Ohio, previously Euclid, Ohio, passed away October 22, 2022 at the age of 99 after a brief illness.
Loving wife of Robert T. Barry (deceased) of Mayfield Heights, Ohio. previously Euclid, Ohio. She was preceded in death by her loving husband of 67 years. Devoted Mother of Diane Daiber (Barry) of Willoughby Hills, Ohio and Douglas Barry of Mayfield Heights, Ohio, previously of Pittsburgh PA..
Proud grandmother of Erin Baveye (Daiber), husband Damien Baveye, Hannah Daiber, fiancé Brandon Fahl, and Cameron Daiber.
Great Grandmother of August Fahl. Sister of Margaret Skrance (Ash) (deceased)
Dorothy worked as treasurer at Euclid High School for many years. She enjoyed golfing, socializing with her friends, and especially loved family gatherings. Dorothy and Robert happily spent their retirement years enjoying travel and their grandchildren.
A Memorial Mass will take place at 10:00 AM November 4, 2022 at St Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, 6850 Mayfield Road, Gates Mills Ohio
Family will receive friends at the church prior to the mass. In lieu of flowers donations can be made in her memory to a charity of your choice.
Stephen E. Donnally
Stephen E. Donnally age 70, of Concord Township, entered into his eternal heavenly home on October 19, 2022 surrounded by his loving family in the comfort of his home. Steve bravely fought a seventeen month battle with leukemia and then lymphoma. Beloved and faithful husband of 31 years to Bonnie Donnally (Glovan), Cherished father to Jessica Ritt (Jimmy) and Melanie Donnally. Adoring grandfather to Addie Ritt and treasured brother-in-law to John Glovan. Loving brother to Sheila Sage and brother in law to Jan Glovan and the late Tony Glovan. Uncle to TJ and Alyssa Glovan and Joseph Sage. Son of the late Thomas Donnally and Winona Phillips.
First and foremost, he was a faithful follower of Christ who also led many others in their walk of faith. Scripture and Bible study were of great significance to him and a fundamental part of who he was. He was fun, jovial, playful, and known by all as being so positive and uplifting. He had the most gentle spirit and incredibly kind heart. Steve extended graciousness and warmth to everyone he met. His family was his world, and he loved any time spent with them. He knew that family was not just an important thing, it was "everything" to him. Some of his fondest memories he created with them include vacations to the ocean, lake drives, park walks, being outside in nature, walking his beloved dogs, singing along to his golden oldies, and making his family laugh.
Steve retired in the summer of 2001 from the Euclid Fire Department as Lt. Steve Donnally after 27 years of service. He began his retirement career of bus driving for the Riverside School District in December of 2001. In his spare time he could be found on the golf course, playing a relaxed 9 holes and taking in nature’s beauty. He also enjoyed prayer walks in the park, cross country skiing, and tennis with his buddies. He took great pride in his meticulously manicured lawn, which he loved to admire from his lawn chair in the driveway - ice cold Diet Coke in hand. Although Steve will be greatly missed, he will forever remain in the hearts of those he has touched and will live on through the ongoing Christian walk of those inspired by his faith.
The family will receive friends from 10:00am to 11:00am on Saturday October 29, 2022 at St. Gabriel Catholic Church - 9925 Johnnycake Ridge Rd, Mentor, OH 44060. A Memorial Mass will be held at 11:00am in the church. A private internment will be held at a later date. The family suggests contributions be made to St. Gabriel Catholic Church or the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.
Barbara Ann Mullins
Services for Barbara Ann Mullins will be held on Monday, October 24, 2022 at Pilgrim Lutheran Brethren Church, 9514 Johnnycake Ridge Rd, Mentor, Ohio. Visitation is at 5:00 and service is at 7:00.
Barbara was born to Alton and Mildred Gummoe in Waymart Borough Pennsylvania, August 4,1933. After graduation from Waymart High School she moved to Ohio but always referred to Carbondale, Pennsylvania as “going home.” She moved to her Madison Ave home in 1959 and lived there until she left this earth on October 18, 2022 surrounded by 2 granddaughters. The rest of those who loved her were with her in spirit. She leaves behind, for a while, her daughters and son in laws, Sherry and David Ebbert and Cyndi and Daniel Beemiller and her son and daughter in law, Scott and Donna Mullins.
Also leaving behind her grandchildren, Amy Panebianco, Joshua and Gina Ebbert, Sara Ebbert, Rachel Ebbert, Justin Beemiller, Amanda Beemiller and Matt Lambert, Devin Beemiller, Dylan Beemiller, Megan Beemiller, Ashley and Seth Osborne and Tessa Mullins.
She is great grandmother to Joseph Panebianco, Colin Panebianco, Tyler Ebbert, Faith Yankie, Griffin Ebbert, Jillian Ebbert, Colton Yankie, Keegan Lambert, Keelianna Lambert, and Keeston Lambert. She also leaves behind many nieces and nephews, and longtime friends and neighbors who have loved her well.
Sherman Mullins, infant children Robert Mullins and Karen Mullins, her sisters Shirley Johnson, Beverly Hicks, Gloria Cole, and her granddaughter Jessica Cottrell preceded her in death.
While she will be dearly missed here we know that heaven is a wonderful place and we are grateful she is now there with her Savior and those who have gone before her.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Medical Supplies for Christ, Inc in care of Pilgrim Lutheran Brethren Church.