OBITUARIES

A Remembrance of Loved Ones

Christina LoPresti Christina LoPresti

Anna Morton

Anna Morton (Ry Ry), born Anna Szasz, was the loving and devoted wife of Brian Morton for 42 years, mother of Race (Nari), Laurel (Brent), and Liam. A proud grandmother of Ryder and Gunner Myers, Phoebe, Scout, and Indy Morton, she was also a loving sister to Joshka and brothers Martin and Andrew.

Anna attended West Geauga High School, then went on to John Carroll University School of Veterinary Medicine where she was crowned Homecoming Queen in her sophomore year. She enjoyed a long career in the veterinary field, starting early at age 16, riding her bike to work, her love of animals knew no bounds. Being mentored and working alongside the vibrant and spirited Dr. Richard A. Novak for 33 years, left a lasting impression. In addition to veterinary medicine, she devoted 37 years working at Alpine Valley Ski Area managing the office, bar and also on ski patrol. A joyful time spent alongside some of her closest friends and family, she formed bonds and memories that would last a lifetime.

A woman of devout faith, Anna loved the great outdoors, hiking, skiing, biking and tent camping. Anna and Brian spent their honeymoon in the Outerbanks, biking over 575 miles, exploring the two largest Sounds in the world. She enjoyed annual trips with multiple families to Canada involving bear encounters, snorkeling, polar bear plunges, cave exploration, noise violations for “Honk, it’s my 40th birthday”, rice divers cove, rafting, swimming in Georgian Bay and campfires with many critters. Anna had a passion for physical fitness. She enjoyed attending Jazzercise Studio in Chesterland for 40 years where she formed many lifelong friendships in a community of faith, strength and support. She loved all animals, especially horses, birds, cats and dogs.

She was always helping everyone with their animals. When in need of medical advice for your pet, she was the one to call and many did, making you her top priority. She also rescued many animals, finding them the best homes, which many times meant at the foot of her own bed. When her own dog Daisy became paralyzed, through love and patience, she did not give up hope and conquered the impossible, rehabbing Daisy to walk again. Her calm demeanor in the toughest situations earned her tremendous respect.

She absolutely loved country music, especially George Straight. Attending his concert on her birthday with her darling sweetheart Muffy, roads trips with her ‘sisters’ and listening to music for hours upon hours, created memories that will live on to be deeply cherished. Anna had a vast knowledge of gemology and one of her favorite hobbies was closing down flea-markets with her best friends. Searching for hours, looking through ‘treasures’ with her dear, adventurous, ‘Buttercup’ Wendy. Anna had a humble nature. She and Brian spent many years living in a small cabin, in the middle of the woods, where they raised their first two children Race and Laurel, while building a magnificent log cabin, creating a dream home where they welcomed their third child, Liam; a place where family and friends gathered often and were known for their legendary Christmas Eve gatherings. Anna and Laurel would spend days preparing, cooking and baking cookies with her nieces.

A strikingly beautiful woman, Anna will be remembered for her polite nature, her grace and her tolerance, her charm, and her smile, so reminiscent of her mother Agnes’s. She will be remembered for her strength and her bravery, and the sound of her laughter.

                 She will be greatly missed

                 February 24, 1958 - May 30, 2023

                “Everybody loves birds.”

A Funeral mass for Anna will be held on the Summer Solstice, Wednesday, June 21st, at 10:30 A.M. at St. Anselm Parish. At the conclusion of the mass, a grave site service will be attended by immediate family only.

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Christina LoPresti Christina LoPresti

Christopher Bailey

Christopher "Beetle" Bailey passed away on May 26, 2023. Beloved son of William Bailey. Loving brother of Victoria Swank, and Twin Sister Jennifer "Spike" Bailey (Mike). Cherished Uncle of James, Steven (Shanna) Sophia,  Angel (Dan) Jax, Dina, Angelina, Eddie, Brian, and Samantha (Nick). Christopher worked at Crombie Industrial, and was a dedicated friend for 8 years, and drove trucks for 6. He was a motorcycle enthusiast, who loved riding with the best, music, and good times. His greatest love was his family, gatherings, and friends. He will be missed by all, and remain in everyone's heart going forward.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held on July 1, 2023 at Amvets Post 40, 9141 Jordan Dr, Mentor, OH 44060 from 3:00-6:00P.M.

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Christina LoPresti Christina LoPresti

Rachal Marie Ballard

Rachal Marie Ballard passed away on May 23, 2023 after succumbed to cancer. Rachel, a.k.a. “Roach” was a graduate of “East High School” Class of 1975. She was instrumental in being a Mentor as she spread a “Rainbow of Love” throughout her lifetime. The family will be remembering her in a private ceremony with her ashes to be interred at a later date. Donations in her memory can be sent to the “Hospice of the Western Reserve.” www.hospicewr.org

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Anne Zuchowski Anne Zuchowski

Donald Joseph Pertz

May 16, 1952 - May 10, 2023

 

Donald Joseph Pertz of Willoughby Hills. Beloved husband of Veree (nee Luttrell) for 32 years; father of Shannon, Frank (Karen), Desiree (Matt), Jennifer (Steve), Robin (Nate), and William; grandfather of Andrew, Seth, Xander, Robert (Chloe), Hannah, Aidan, Avery, Blake, Wrangler and Jason; great-grandfather of Weston; brother-in-law, uncle, and cherished friend of many. Donald was preceded in death by his parents Frank William and Dorothy Lee (nee Minter) Pertz.

A memorial service will be announced at a later date.

 

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Anne Zuchowski Anne Zuchowski

David Alan Williams

June 13, 1953 - May 7, 2023

David Alan Williams, age 69, passed away unexpectantly on May 7th, 2023 at his home in Chardon, Ohio. He was born on June 13th, 1953 in Auburn, NY and lived his childhood in nearby Locke, NY. He graduated from North Rose-Wolcott High School in Wolcott, NY and later completed advanced education related to the construction industry at Cleveland State University in Ohio. He had been employed by DLZ, an architectural, engineering and construction consulting firm in Ohio since 2010 and was well regarded within the organization. Dave enjoyed playing golf, picking antiques and spending time with family and friends. He is survived by his sons Michael Williams and Kevin Williams, siblings Marcia Bucholz, Gary Williams, Randy Williams, Penny Darby, Glenn Williams, Brian Williams, Jill Williams, and Jeffrey Williams. He is also survived by his special friend Sheryll Gowing. He is preceded in death by his parents Kenneth and Pauline Williams and sister Wendy Bieling.

A celebration of life and golf outing in his memory is tentatively scheduled for September 2023 in the Northeast Ohio area on the golf course he loved to play. Memorial information will be disseminated to family and friends.

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Christina LoPresti Christina LoPresti

John Thomas Healy

John Thomas Healy (59) of Newbury, Ohio lost his battle with cancer at the Geauga Medical Center on Friday, May 12, 2023.  John was a private man who enjoyed spending his time fishing, tinkering in the garage and spending time with grandchildren and close family and friends.  John was preceded in death by his wife Susan and his parents William and Constance Healy.  

John is survived by his daughter Jocelyn Wildman; his siblings Wayne (Kirk) Healy-Fernette, Cheryl (Ernie, deceased) Laramee, James (Dawn) Healy, Linda Healy, Michael (Newth) Healy; his step-sons Patrick, Carl and Joseph Plicka and his grandchildren Lexi, Camera, Aliyah, Emma, Savannah and Flora.  He was an uncle to many nieces and nephews.

John will be laid to rest with his wife Susan on Friday, June 9, 2023 at 9:00 AM at the Newbury Center Cemetery.

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Christina LoPresti Christina LoPresti

Elizabeth A. Oddo "Betsy"

June 17, 1966 - May 4, 2023

Elizabeth “Betsy” Ann Oddo, age 56, of Mentor, passed away at home surrounded by her family on Thursday May the 4th, 2023. Betsy was born in Kettering, Ohio on June 17th, 1966 to Linda Gordon (deceased) and Charles Stuart. She graduated with a degree in Communications from Bowling Green State University, where she met her husband, John Oddo, who survives her. Betsy was deeply adored by all who knew her and was a dedicated member of her community. Above all, Betsy was a loving mother, wife, sister, daughter, aunt, and friend. She is remembered most for her boundless love, kindness, compassion, and generosity. She valued family more than anything and found joy in good food, photography, and spending time outdoors. Betsy is preceded in death by her mother, Linda Gordon Stuart, and her brother, Peter Gordon Stuart. Betsy is survived by her father Charles Stuart; her loving husband of 31 years, John Oddo; her children Ian, Dominic, Tommy, and John “Sonny” Oddo; her brother Douglas Gordon (Stefanie) Stuart; her brothers and sisters in law Peter (Kathy) Oddo, Joseph (Tracy) Oddo, Christina (John) Revennaugh; and her nieces and nephews Lily, Bryan, Peter, Nick, and Danielle Oddo, Anthony, John, and Danny Revennaugh, and Vivian and Ben Stuart. 

Family will greet friends for a celebration of life at Springbrook Park in Mentor 6776 Heisley Rd on Friday, June 2nd from 3-6pm. 

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Christina LoPresti Christina LoPresti

Monica J. Ulsenheimer

August 5, 1951 - May 1, 2023

Monica J. Ulsenheimer (Rigo) was called to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on May 1st, 2023.  She died peacefully at home with her sister Carole and brother John by her side. 

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Dean of 38 years and sisters Helen Marie (Baby), Dolores (Dolly) and Charlotte (Bernie). Loving sister of Zita, Judy, Barbara, John, Susan (Buni), Joey and Carole. Fond Aunt to many nieces and nephews, grand nieces and grand nephews and great-great nieces and great-great nephews. 

She was in the nursing profession (MSN), was a certified case manager for many years, and recently retired. Monica was a member of the National Nursing Honor Society, Sigma Theta Tau. She was a lover of nature and was a long standing member/supporter of Holden Arboretum.

A memorial will be held for Monica and Dean at Holden Arboretum at a later date to be determined. In lieu of flowers please make donations to Holden arboretum in Monica’s name. 

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Anne Zuchowski Anne Zuchowski

Robert C. Braund

December 3, 1941- April 25, 2023

Robert C. “Bob” Braund, age 81, of Willoughby, Ohio, passed away on April 25, 2023.  He was born in Cleveland, Ohio, December 3, 1941, the son of Robert “Bob” and Helen (Stophel) Braund. Bob was a good-hearted man that would do anything for anybody. He graduated from Eastlake North in 1960 and resided in Madison, OH and worked for the Lake County Coke Distributor. He relocated to Indianapolis, IN, around 1980 and began a career as an 18-wheeler truck driver, which he enjoyed until his retirement in 2002. It was in Indianapolis where he met his love and future wife Jean Lucas Braund. Besides his many travels and adventures with Jean, Bob’s other enjoyments were his lawn that won first place in the neighborhood for many years, model railroading, and the Indy 500 that he rarely missed. He moved back to Willoughby following his wife’s death and resided at Breckenridge Village with all the other amazing residents there that made him feel so much at home. In his last few years, he found enjoyment in the company of his good friend Pat Merideth who shared a love of watching comedy shows and baseball games.  Bob is survived by daughter Jacquie, grandson Jon Kurzinger (Erin) and three great grandchildren (Charlie, Grace and Amelia); niece Cortney Braund Rice (Daniel) and great niece Penelope, of Denver, CO; brother Kenneth also of Denver; and dear friend Pat Merideth. He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife Jean.

 

The family plans a private service in the near future.

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Anne Zuchowski Anne Zuchowski

Rebecca Noel Wilson

February 12, 1989 - May 1, 2023

Rebecca (Becky) Noel Wilson passed on May 1, 2023.  Becky was born February 12, 1989 in Painesville, OH and was raised in Chardon by her parents Art and Carol Wilson.  Her love of music was inherited from and shared with her family, and she always looked forward to seeing some of her favorites in concert. She was a lover of animals and more than once, to the dismay of her parents, brought home a dog in need of a new home. Becky was good-hearted and understood the struggles of others. Even when she was struggling herself, she would do whatever she could to help or support a friend in need.

Becky’s love of music and family was expressed in her body art. In many ways it was an expression of her feelings in a way that held those things close to her always. She touched many hearts and made countless people laugh during her 34 years with all of us.

She is survived by her mother, Carol Wilson, sister Nikki (Dennis) Nevar, and beautiful daughter Cassidy Wilson; grandmother Ivadean Wilson, uncles and aunts John (Rose) Holodniak, Jeff (Brenda) Wilson, Tom Wilson; and cousins Jenn (Rob) Nelson, Kathy (Doug) Wetzel, Alex (Laurel) Wilson, Olivia Wilson (Caleb Haeussler), Jonathan (Heather) Holodniak, Sean Holodniak (Amanda Wiegert).

She was preceded in death by her father, Art Wilson, grandfather and grandmother John and Lee Holodniak, grandfather, George Wilson, uncle and aunt, Dennis and Donna Sears, uncle, David Wilson, and aunt, Karen Holodniak.

Family and friends are invited to her celebration of life on Saturday, May 13th from 1:00 to 5:00 pm at Old Council Hall located 7250 Jackson St., Mentor, OH 44060.  If you have a favorite band t-shirt, please wear it in celebration of Becky. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Lake-Geauga Recovery Centers.

 

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Anne Zuchowski Anne Zuchowski

Olga A Campbell

June 19, 1916 - May 2, 2023

Olga A. Campbell, 106, of Cleveland, passed away on May 2, 2023. Devoted wife to Rudolph Jelercic and Charles Campbell, sister to Mary Petric, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, and great great grandmother, Olga was born in Cleveland on June 19, 1916, to Anton and Antonia Novak (nee Zadnik). Although born in Cleveland, Olga returned with her family to Slovenia (then part of The Kingdom Of Yugoslavia) for seven years before the family returned and settled permanently in the Collinwood neighborhood of Cleveland. As a teenager, Olga began her career as a cosmetologist, which she continued throughout her life. She eventually established her own salon in the Collinwood area. Olga was a lifelong member of Saint Mary of the Assumption Church parish, as well as a member of various Slovene-American organizations. Special interests for Olga included traveling, golf, music (especially polkas), and the Cleveland Indians. Olga is survived by daughters Phyllis (Morgan) of Concord Township, and Linda (Robert) of Birmingham, Alabama; grandchildren Mark (Maria), David (Monica), Steven (Nora), Jason (Samantha), and Aaron (Sarah); great grandchildren Amanda (Youssef), Anna (Jess), David, Elliot, Evan, Grace, Kate, Joseph (Emily), Maeve, Marina, and Morgan (Ashley); and great great granddaughter Maeve

A memorial service will be held on September 1, 2023, at St. Mary of The Assumption Catholic Church, 15519 Holmes Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio, 44110, at 10:00 A.M.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Ohio Living Breckenridge Village Life Care, 36859 Ridge Road, Willoughby, OH 44094, in memory of Olga A. Campbell.

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Anne Zuchowski Anne Zuchowski

Dana Paul Talcott

January 17, 1951 - April 29, 2023

Dana P. Talcott, age 72, passed away peacefully on April 29, 2023, surrounded by family, at his home in Kirtland Hills. Born to Elizabeth and Edwin “Burt” Talcott on January 17, 1951, in Painesville, Ohio. He served in the United States Army and was stationed in Germany during the Vietnam War. Dana was the proud owner of TABLOX Black Oxide Service; a family owned and operated business since   1968, located in Willoughby, Ohio. He leaves behind his love of twenty-­‐six years, Pamela Ann Cleverly, son Aaron Talcott, his mother Betty Talcott, sisters: Patricia Smoker (husband Ron), Carol Buckwalter (husband Ken). Nieces and nephews: Kelly Kunsch (husband Kurt), Brian Buckwalter (wife Becky) and Mathew Smoker. Although born in “snow country”, Dana hated the cold and enjoyed spending his winters at his home in Big Pine Key, Florida. Ohio summers were all about the yard, his John Deere and his two tiny Yorkies. Dana was always the life of every party and will be remembered for his endless supply of corny    jokes. We will forever miss your love and laughter, Dana. “The Bar Is Open”.                     

At his request, no services will be held. The family will hold a Celebration of Life at a later date.                             

The family asks that donations be made to Hospice of The Western Reserve.   

           

 

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Anne Zuchowski Anne Zuchowski

Jane Frances Mika

May 10, 1946 - April 26, 2023

Jane Frances Mika Beloved daughter of Frank and Frances Mika (deceased) of Euclid.  Sister of Diane Mika McFiggen (Thomas) and Sandra Mika Lukacic (Peter).  Aunt of Mark Francis Donahue, Michelle Donahue Beard, Allison Lukacic, and Olivia Lukacic.  Jane was a 1964 graduate of Euclid High School and Cooper School of Art in 1973.  Jane was an avid skiier, sailor, traveler, and artist. 

Private interment service for immediate family at All Souls Cemetery. 

Donations to Hospice of the Western Reserve would be welcomed.

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Anne Zuchowski Anne Zuchowski

Kathryn Ann Erjavec "Kay"

July 21, 1934 - April 29, 2023

Kay, age 88 passed away peacefully on April 29, 2023 at Hospice of the Western Reserve.  She was born on July 21, 1934 in PA to Edgar L. Huston and Fay E. Huston. Kay graduated from Redstone High School in 1952.  She moved to Mentor, Ohio in 1959.  She worked for The Mentor School system for over 30 years. She enjoyed roller skating, hiking, music, shopping, her grandchildren, and socializing with her many friends.  She will be remembered as generous, thoughtful, kind, and good natured. Preceded in her death by husband, John J. Erjavec IV, her parents and two brothers. Survivors are her children, Faye Hess (Bill), Joan Boffa (Lou), John Erjavec (Laura), grandchildren Hayley Hess (Conor May), Great grandchild Maggie May, Vincent and Ashton Boffa, Veronica Erjavec (Ian), Farah and Jacob Erjavec.

The family will hold a private  service at a later date.  

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Christina LoPresti Christina LoPresti

Alan Rupe

Alan Rupe age 85, of Mentor, passed away on April 22, 2023. Loving husband of the late Kay (nee Schultz). Devoted father of Kathy (Jerry) Langsdale, Danny (Coline) Rupe Cherished grandfather Bryan and Jacob Langsdale, Kellie Ritenour and Kyla Jacobson (deceased), and Caroline Rupe. Great-great grandfather of Hannah Jacobson, Brooke Ritenour, Delia Rupe, Landon and Collin Ritenour. Alan was a Mason, and he liked to go bowling, hunting, and was an avid gun collector, going fishing, and was a sportsman. He enjoyed collecting cars, and spending time with his family. Alan will be dearly missed by all, and remain in everyone's hearts.A Private Family Service will be held at a later date.

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Christina LoPresti Christina LoPresti

James J. Yager

James J. Yager “Jim” age 83, of Madison, passed away on April 8, 2023. Devoted father of James (Karen), Todd (deceased), and Julie Yager. Loving grandfather of Jimmy Yager (Anna), Todd Yager, Jessica, Larissa, and Delaney King. Great-grandfather of Maxwell King, and Khloe Karabinus. Jim owned and operated Jim Yager’s Auto and Marine for over 35 years. He enjoyed boating, motor homes, traveling, and his Sunday visits with his family. A Private Family Service was held.

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Christina LoPresti Christina LoPresti

Robert S. Sarkozy

Robert S. Sarkozy age 74, of Mentor on the Lake passed away peacefully on April 20, 2023. Partner of 40 years to Russell L. Miller. Devoted brother of Melody Fulton. Robert loved crocheting, music, and had an excessive collection of cds and albums. Father of 5 four foot dogs: Scooby, Jasper, Laila, Acer, Aries. Robert was preceded in death by Kimberly and Londell Sarkozy. He will be dearly missed by all, and forever remain in everyone’s hearts.

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Christina LoPresti Christina LoPresti

Edward Terry LeBreton

Edward Terry LeBreton, age 86, passed away on April 15, 2023. Edward was born October 23, 1936, in Euclid Ohio. Edward worked for Essef corporation in Chardon, Ohio as Chief Engineer for 45 years until his retirement. Edward holds 14 inventor patents from his former company. He enjoyed family get togethers by his pool, traveling, painting, and  working on his yard.

Edward is survived by his sons Edward (Renee) LeBreton, and Jeffery (Missi) LeBreton. Grand children; Edward, Taylor, Thomas, Haley, Samantha, and great-grandchild Julian. He is preceded in death by his wife of 65 years Loretta; and his sons Scott and Jack.

There will be a service for immediate family members only. The family asks in lieu of flowers, donations be sent to Hospice of the Western Reserve.

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Christina LoPresti Christina LoPresti

Suzanne Elizabeth Giordano

Suzanne (“Suzy”) Elizabeth Giordano, 62, of North Olmsted, Ohio passed away peacefully on the evening of April 15, 2023. She will be lovingly remembered by her daughter Anna Piazza and son-in-law Ben Piazza; brothers Charles Roth, Jerry Roth, Ron Roth, and Sam Roth; and sisters Bonnie Donato, Gloria Sawyer, Mickey Palulis, Pat Macartney, and Sandy McDevitt. She had many loving half-siblings, step-siblings, nieces, nephews, and cousins. She was predeceased by her father, Michael, her mother, June, and her stepfather, Dick.

Suzanne was a beautiful soul with a deep passion for life. Family and friends were an important part of her life and her bright legacy will be felt by so many. She loved music, fishing, Cleveland baseball, the beach, traveling, gardening, and volunteering with the Cleveland Metroparks. She was also the proud grand-dog-mom of Samara (“Girly”) and Dolly and enjoyed spoiling them with gourmet meals and spending time with them in the backyard.

A Celebration of Suzanne’s Life will be held at Huntington Beach Lake Shelter (East Half) in Bay Village on June 4, 2023 from 1-4pm. We invite anyone who knew her to attend and remember her wonderful life. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Cleveland Animal Protective League.

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Christina LoPresti Christina LoPresti

Beverly Ellis

Beverly Ellis (nee Peters), also known as "Ma," passed away peacefully on April 15, 2023, at the age of 95 in Cleveland, Ohio. Loving wife of the late John E. Ellis. Ma is survived by her granddaughter, Heather Oreh (husband Nick Oreh), and her nieces, Mary Lou Burslem III, Judy Allen (Robert deceased), and her great-niece Nancy Hedberg (husband Matthew). She was preceded in death by her son Stephen E Ellis, and her nephew William Burslem III.

Bev was a loving and caring person who enjoyed making others laugh and bringing people together. She was always the life of the party and cherished every moment spent with her family.  Bev’s memorial services will be held in Cleveland, Ohio on May 14th and San Diego, California on June 16th at Ft Rosecrans Cemetery with reception to follow in Scripps Ranch. 

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Cypress Hospice in Cleveland, Ohio. Bev’s family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Cypress Hospice for their exceptional care and support during her final days.

May her soul rest in peace.

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