OBITUARIES
A Remembrance of Loved Ones
William Joseph Grau
February 20, 1941 - May 30, 2023
William Joseph Grau, age 82, of Concord Township, Ohio passed away on Tuesday, May 30, 2023. He was born February 20, 1941 in Cleveland. One of fifteen children, Bill graduated from Holy Name High School in 1959 and served honorably in the United States Air Force from 1959 to 1963. He studied at Kent State University and was a Letter Carrier with the United States Postal Service for twenty-nine years. Survivors include his beloved wife of fifty-eight years, Joyce M. (nee Koenig); his loving children, Michael Grau (Sarah), Jill Whelan, Matthew Grau (Wendy), and Ryan Grau. Additional survivors include seven grandchildren, Corey Grau, Elle Whelan, Kayla Grau, Michael Grau, Liam Whelan, Logan Grau and Lauren Grau and two sisters, Peggy Kamis and Terry Teresi. Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Lucille (nee Collisi) Grau and twelve brothers and sisters, Marie Zamiska, Irene Gartland, Doris Grau, James Grau, Joan Senyitko, Robert Grau, Jack Grau, Edward Grau, Donna Sanders, Kathy McCallum, Mary Peters, and Tim Grau. Bill was loved by many wonderful nieces and nephews and brought a smile to the face of everyone he met. Bill will be cremated and there will be no burial service.
A private Memorial Mass will be held at St. Gabriel Catholic Church in Concord, Ohio at a later date.
The family suggests that memorial contributions in Bill's memory be sent to Hospice of the Western Reserve, 300 E. 185th St., Cleveland, OH 44119.
Cremation arrangements were entrusted to Blessing Cremation Center, 9340 Pinecone Dr., Mentor, OH 44060. Online condolences to the family may be expressed at www.blessingcremation.com.
Charles C. Snyder "Carl"
October 12, 1931 - May 9, 2023
Carl was born in his family's home in Painesville, OH on Oct. 12, 1931 where he lived with his parents, Charles F. and Edith (Lohr). The family also included older brother and sister, Thomas, and Garland Malqueeny), and younger sister, Betty (Franko). Carl's three siblings preceded him in death. Carl was always described as a gentle, caring child. People who knew him also described him as a hard-working boy who was always willing to lend a hand with any job. Carl went to work at the Diamond Shamrock in Fairport before graduating from high school and attended Harvey High School daily while working 2nd shift at the Diamond until he graduated. Following graduation, Carl entered the army and served in Korea where he was wounded in battle and awarded a Purple Heart. Upon discharge, he returned to his job at the Diamond and he and his parents bought a small farm in Leroy where they lived and raised much of their food for a number of years.
In March 1960, he met his future wife, Joyce Bonawitz, at Manner's Restaurant in Painesville. He and his friends asked to be taken for a ride in her newly purchased convertible. As he exited the car at the end of the ride, he leaned in the window and said, "I'm going to marry you someday". Joyce laughing replied, "Don't hold your breath. You'll turn mighty blue". Carl was persistent though, and they were married 15 months. later on June 17, 1961. They had two children, son, Jeffrey Carlson, and daughter, Kimberly Susan (Johnson). The family lived in Mentor for 14 years before moving to Concord in 1975. Carl continued to work at the Diamond until the Fairport plant was closed. At that time, he started and successfully operated a painting business until he retired in 2001. Carl loved nature, both plants and animals. He was also devoted to his 2 grandchildren, Macully Kyler and Lauren McKinzie Snyder. He enjoyed sharing his knowledge of nature with them and he and his wife spent many hours with them working in the yard and walking the beach or through the Metro Parks where he identified all the flora and fauna in the area around them. He also loved to spend time in the yard where he enjoyed just sitting watching the changing of the seasons. He particularly enjoyed watching the arrival and departure of the various migrating bird species each year. His wife teased him about being on a first name basis with all the hummingbirds, doves, cardinals, and other birds in the neighborhood. Over the years, they hand raised and successfully released many wild birds and animals found in their yard or the woods around their home. Carl also dearly loved his sheltie, Usher, who was his constant companion and spent many hours laying beside his human dad during his final illness. Carl died in the arms of his wife on May 9th at their Concord home. That is where he wanted to be and each time he was hospitalized, he fought to get well enough to go home.
The family is grateful to the nurses and aides provided by Elara Hospice in assisting them in making his wish possible. They did everything they could to support Joyce in caring for Carl without being intrusive. Both Carl and Joyce were deeply appreciative of their efforts to ease their pain, physical and emotional, throughout their final days and nights together. The family would also like to thank the EMTs at the Concord Fire Department for their rapid and expert help when Carl would fall or have difficulty breathing. They went above and beyond the call of duty in the assistance they provided our family. Thanks also to the friends, relatives, and neighbors who were very supportive and helpful during Carl’s lengthy illness, especially our daughter, Kim, who was there at a moments notice to provide support and love during a time filled with unbelievable emotional and physical pain.
A memorial service is scheduled for 1:30 on June 17, at Mentor United Methodist Church in Mentor, Ohio. That would have been Joyce and Carl's 62nd wedding anniversary. True Love Stories Never End.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.