James A. Peckis

James A. Peckis age 73, passed away on September 21, 2023. Cherished son of the late Walter and Marie. Beloved brother of Tom, Jane, and Chuck Peckis. James proudly served his country as a Navy Veteran. He was a longtime member of The Northeast Ohio Corvette Club, and he also loved his cowboy shows. A graveside service will be held at Mentor Cemetery, with military honors on October 14, 2023 at 1:00 P.M. Please meet at Mentor Cemetery at the grave in Section 22 of the cemetery.

Cheryl S. Fain

Celebrating the life of Cheryl S. Fain who passed away on Sept. 21, 2023. Born in California, she enjoyed childhood adventures in California, Hawaii, Guam, and the U. S. Virgin Islands before moving to Ohio and making Roaming Shores her home for 49 years. Daughter of Alfred and Betty (Brightwell) Fain, sister of P. Steven Fain, and mother of Lee, Shawna, and Destrey. Remembered by grandchildren Elijah, Anna, and Joseph, nieces Audra and Camille and their mother Mo, honorary nieces and nephews Katie and Karen Martin, her soulmate Mike, and extended family and countless friends who were blessed to know her.

Cheryl kept busy: Homemaker, swimming instructor, clerk-treasurer of the Village of Roaming Shores, and a nurse. She would talk to any human who needed a friend, and her natural empathy made her beloved to all who met her. She served patients in maternity wards, nursing homes, and those seeking sobriety at Glenbeigh Treatment Center. Her nursing patients often said that God sent “an angel named Cheryl” to them in their times of need.

Cheryl’s hobbies included bowling, macramé, crocheting, quilting, karate, poetry writing, science fiction, card and board games, music, and dance. Her alto voice was beautiful along with guitar, piano, clarinet, saxophone, autoharp, ukulele, and a number of percussion instruments she played with gusto. She performed in church choirs, a praise band, the Sweet Adelines, Messiah Chorus of Lake County, Conneaut Lake Living Christmas Tree (cantata), and for a time was a regular musician at Manners Tree Farm during the Christmas season.

She loved Jesus, her fellow humans, and animals passionately (proved by her pal 'Sneaky' the boa constrictor who lived with her for 27 years). A Red Cross volunteer and editor of the Poetry Pantry column in the Shores News, and one of the first local women Rotarians, Cheryl became the president of the Rock Creek Rotary and a Paul Harris Fellow. A musician and lay servant in the United Methodist Church, and a board member of both the Village of Roaming Shores and the Romerock Association; her secular yet all-inclusive invocations are legendary.

Cheryl’s wish is that her ashes be returned to her place of origin in central California. A celebration of her life will be held at the Roaming Shores Clubhouse on Sunday, October 8. We welcome donations in her name to be made to the Country Neighbor program (P.O. Box 212, 39 S. Maple St., Orwell, OH 44076) or the Slovene Home (18621 Neff Rd. Cleveland OH 44119). “For the LORD your God is living among you. He is a mighty savior. He will take delight in you with gladness. With his love, he will calm all your fears. He will rejoice over you with joyful songs.” Zeph 3:17. 

Jean C. Schodde

Jean C. Schodde of Mentor, OH, age 86 passed on September 17, 2023. Loving daughter of the late Louise and Harold Schodde. Sister of John Schodde.

Jean was an Elementary Teacher for 30 years. She taught 4th Grade. Jean volunteered at Lake health as a trustee, Mentor Fine Arts and her church “Mentor United Methodist Church”.

Some of her accomplishments she won an award for a book she wrote “Rainbow Gifts”, traveled to England and took classes at Oxford. Jean loved to Travel to Disney World, Hilton Head, England, Rose Bowl (CA) and Hawaii. She enjoyed watching the Golden Girls, The Hallmark Channel, Musicals and Disney Movies. Her favorite flowers were Tulips & Daffodils.

Ruth Mary Christensen

Ruth (Dwyer) Christensen passed away in her sleep on September 14, 2023 at the age of 96. Ruth, born Mary Ruth Dwyer, was welcomed into the Dwyer family home via midwife on January 5, 1927 in Fitchburg, Massachusetts. Her parents, Arthur and Mary (McKay) Dwyer, and siblings: Arthur (Jack), Walter, and Myrtle are all deceased. She was raised in a devout Catholic home and attended Catholic schools throughout her childhood. Ruth’s faith was a pillar of her personal life until the very end. Outgoing and independent, Ruth held a variety of jobs in her youth: secretary at the Pentagon during World War II, a waitress at her brother Jack’s diner, at the Ashtabula Star Beacon, and in the meat department at A & P. Although she spent the majority of her life in northeastern Ohio, Ruth retained the Boston accent acquired in her youth.

        She married the love of her life, William Christensen (who preceded her in death on August 5, 2004), on September 13, 1947. Together, they raised five children who survived her: William (Diane) (Mary Ann; deceased), Gary (Liea), Robert (Lynn), Myra (Steve), and John (Lisa). Ruth was immensely proud of her children and loved them more than anything. She loved telling stories about their childhood and upbringing, and always had a smile on her face when her children were around.

        Ruth was the beloved matriarch of her family and is deeply missed. She had 12 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren, whom she treasured. She was a talented quilter and seamstress, an incredible cook and baker, Pittsburgh Steelers fan, and an avid reader. 

James A. Kent

James A. Kent age 85, passed away on September 8, 2023. Loving Husband to Nancy Ann Kent. (deceased). Devoted father of  James Jr, Derek, Jeff, David, Jennifer and Donna.   Grandfather of 15 and great-grandfather of 18.  Cherished son of the late Father Arlin and Mary.   Beloved brother of Sally and the following deceased: Mildred, Juanita, Jean, Faye, and Arlene. Loving uncle and friend to many.  Loved by nieces and nephews. James enjoyed watching the Cleveland Indians, and loved horse racing. All Services will be private. 

Jason Mark Duncan

Jason Mark Duncan age 44, passed away on September 8, 2023. Loving son of Donna Duncan Furlan, Douglas Keith Duncan(deceased), Stepfather Timothy Furlan (deceased). Cherished Uncle Mark Mahnic, and Aunt Debbie Drury (Mark). Cousin Adam Drury (Robin Jordan), Alicia Drury Lowndes (Jeff). Longtime companion to four legged “Chase.” Jason was a Local Union 373 Carpenter, and was a local sports fanatic for the Cleveland sports teams.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday September 16, 2023 1:00-5:00PM at Mentor Beach Park Pavillion 7779 Lakeshore Boulevard, Mentor-on-the-Lake, OH 44060.

Donations may be made to Donna at the Celebration of Life, or please call Blessing Cremation Center for assistance with donations. 440-352-8100

David Lee Kelley

David Lee Kelley (aka Papa Woody), age 58, passed away September 5th, 2023, at his home in Mentor.  He was born January 5th, 1965, in Cleveland, Ohio to Robert P. Kelley and Dorothy G. Kelley Walczak.

David was a 1983 graduate of Mentor High School.  He was an avid fisherman and hunter and also a talented athlete is all sports.  He loved the Cleveland Indians and Browns along with being with friends (Especially Jason Dawes).

David is survived by his siblings, Brenda Lee Kelley, Bob (Denice) Kelley, Rose (Steve) Siedel, along with many nieces, nephews, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert P. Kelley and Dorothy G. Kelley Walczak. Along with his brother, Michael J. Ramian and sister, Lenda M. Cordell.

Graveside memorial will be held on November 4th, 2023 at 10:30 am at Mentor Cemetery (Lot 21).

Nicholas David Humez

Nick Humez and wife, Leslie Edwards.

Nicholas David Humez, 75, of Painesville, Ohio, died peacefully in his sleep on September 5, 2023.

Nick was both very imaginative and very outgoing, with a continually expanding circle of friends to whom he remained forever loyal.

You might have become friends in one of the places in which he lived—Arlington, Lexington, and Cambridge MA.; Paoli, PA; Portland, ME, Montclair, NJ; Painesville, OH—or in one or another of the creative spheres in which he played an active and accomplished role up to his final days:

Musician: composer of instrumental music from symphonies to solo pieces for a variety of instruments, chamber operas and art songs; singer with a fine tenor voice, both as soloist and choir member, the latter in Lexington’s First Parish Church, Boston’s Old North Church, and the a cappella groups Cantores Sine Nomine and Vox Humana).  He was a member of the Cleveland Composer’s Guild, past president of Maine’s Composer’s Forum and supporter/contributor of Friends of Music at Guilford, Vermont.  Nick’s CD, Myth Songs, features him in his multiple roles as composer, singer, and lyricist. His Rag Time compositions are currently being recorded.

Silversmith/sculptor: creator of original but deliberately accessibly priced jewelry—earrings, necklaces, bracelets, brooches, rings—and of fanciful, meticulously executed sterling silver sculptures, as varied as the tesseract he created as a teething toy for his niece, the Victorian lamp post accompanied by a working penny-farthing bicycle with attachable miniature lock and chain, and his elaborate series of calaveras. He has been the Executive Director of Directions, a Maine craft guild.

Writer: book author (both solo and in collaboration with others); periodical columnist (Portland Press Herald, Verbatim, the language Quarterly; co-publisher of Pork Belly Review which elevated young writers: music critic for the first, author of a column entitled “Classical Blather” for the latter);  he was editor of Matters Magazine; long term contributor to Cafe Blue (where he met and charmed his wife); writer of Letters to the Editor and letters to a multitude of friends and acquaintances; lyricist and master of light verse, all delivered in a blend of erudition and dry wit. Reviewing one of Nick’s books in The Baltimore Sun, Daniel Berger wrote: “Reading a Humez sentence is like taking off in a jet plane. The thing rumbles along slowly, slants up swiftly and swerves in unanticipated directions, soaring into the blue without a hint as to where it might come down. This is dangerous stuff.”

Cartoonist, sketcher in pen and ink, book indexer, proof reader, editor, mentor, teacher, friend: Nick was all of these too, always with characteristic generosity and quirky good humor (yes, even as an indexer).

Nick is survived by his wife Leslie Edwards, step-son Matthew and daughter-in-law Marina, his brother Alex and sister-in-law Jean, and their daughter Andrea and son-in-law Jan.

Donations in his name may be made to Hospice of the Western Reserve, David Simpson Hospice House, 300 East 185th Street, Cleveland OH 44119                                                                    

Vincent "Bud" Clemence

Vincent "Bud" Clemence age 79, of Eastlake, passed away peacefully at his residence on September 3, 2023. Loving son of the late Frank and Annette Clemence. Beloved husband of Barbara Martin. Devoted father of Cindy Frost (Angie), Mike and Jen Clemence, Annette and Pat Quigley, Sheila Martin, and the late Mitchell. Grandfather of Shanna, Cassie, Jordan, Justin, Melia, and Quentin. Loving uncle of many nieces and nephews. Brother of Patti Iosue, Maureen Clemence, Kathy Magruder, Bill and Rosie Clemence, Dave and Dana Clemence, Frank Clemence, and Bob and Toni Clemence, and the late Diane Malaney. He attended Euclid High School, and was the co-owner of C&E Industries. Bud proudly served in the U.S Air Force. A Private Burial will be held at Western Reserve Memorial Gardens Cemetery. 

Adam Warren Juday

Adam Warren Juday, age 42, passed away recently at his home in Euclid, Ohio. He was a 1999 graduate of Kirtland High School and standout athlete in football and basketball.  Adam was also known for his artistic caricatures. Adam is survived by his children: Andrew Juday, South Euclid and Brianna Juday, Kirtland; sisters: Emily Juday, Pataskala, Ohio and Amy Talukder, Arroyo Grande, California; parents: Craig and Deidra Juday, Kirtland and grandmother Mary Lou Wood, Mishawaka, Indiana.

The family will be celebrating Adam’s life by participating in a NAMI walk at Edgewater Park, Cleveland, Ohio on September 23, 2023. Friends and supporters are welcome to participate in the walk or by donating directly to NAMI, on behalf of “Team Adam J.” See www.namiwalks.org for additional details.

Interment of ashes will occur at a future family memorial.

Robert Victor "Bob" Mason

Robert Victor “Bob” Mason, Age 79 

Born August 3, 1943 in Hazelton, Pennsylvania, Bob passed away peacefully at Tripoint Medical Center on Christmas Eve, December 24, 2022 in Painesville, Ohio. He was the son of the late Robert Paul and Marion Marguerite (Vidmar) Mason. 

Bob attended Riverside High School and was an Airman First Class in the United States Air Force until 1964.  After leaving the Air Force, Bob became an avid “stock” car driver, motorcycle and classic car enthusiast, and enjoyed flea markets.  In addition, Bob was a very well-known and skilled auto mechanic, who owned Mason Auto Service in Painesville for more than 40 years.  Bob was admired and respected by so many and his passing leaves a huge hole in our hearts. 

Survived by his daughter, Cheryl Ann (Jeffrey) Haak, his son, John Robert Molyneux, grandsons Seth, David, Jeffrey and Elijah, great grandchildren David James, Kaylee, Amelia and Nora, sisters Beatrice L. “Betty” (John) Ishmael, and Freda R. Mason, brothers Arthur F. Mason and Frederick W. (Nancy ) Mason, several nieces and nephews and his beloved companion, his Shih Tzu, Charlene. 

Bob was preceded in death by his Father Robert, Mother Marion, and a sister, Mary L. Capretta. 

Pursuant to Bob's wishes, cremation has taken place and a Celebration of Life memorial service will be held in the Spring of 2023 when everyone who loved Bob will be able to attend.  Please check back at Blessingcremation.com/obituaries for additional details on the Celebration of Life as they become available. Arrangements entrusted to Blessing Cremation Center, 9340 Pinecone Dr., Mentor, Ohio.   

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his name to either The American Heart Association or the American Lung Association.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, September 23, 2023 at Fellowship Hall 8125 Mentor Avenue from 4-7 p.m. a lite meal and beverages will be served.

Family and friends will be asked to share a story or a fond memory of Bob.

Frederick G. Conley "Fred"

Frederick "Fred" G Conley, age 77, went to be with the Lord on August 30, 2023 with his wife by his side. He was born in Painesville, Ohio to John and Betty Conley on November 1, 1945. He was a graduate of Willoughby South High School in 1963, and had various jobs prior to enlisting in the Army and being stationed in Korea. He proudly served from 1966 until 1969, attaining the rank of Sergeant. He worked in the tire business for many years, predominantly at Conley Tire with his brother Jim. Fred was known for always treating everyone with respect and with a smile.

Preceded in death by parents John and Betty; brother John; brother Jim (survived by Sandy, Bethany, Ashlee Conley and Great Nephew Liam); along with many aunts, uncles and cousins. Fred is survived by his wife Patti, who was the love of his life, and they were together just shy of 49 years. They were married September 1, 1974 and resided in Bedford, Euclid, and for the last 36 years, in Mentor, Ohio. He also leaves behind brother Larry (residing in Maryland); brother Ken, his wife Judy, (residing in the Dayton area); beloved nieces and nephews, too many to name; dear friend, brother and caregiver, Michael Olenych and his wife Leslie; mother-in-law, Arleen Wright; nephew Ryan Hyde and his wife Shannon; niece Stacy Eubanks and her husband Ryan, and children Evan and Kendal; and dear cousins who he cherished beyond measure. 

One big happy family. When you think of Fred, remember his good humor, the twinkle in his eye and his warm hugs. We were all lucky to have known him. You were the love of my life, until we meet again. I love you.

Margaret R. Daugherty

It is with a heavy heart and great sadness to announce the passing of Margaret Ruth Daugherty (Hyde) at the age of 85.

Margaret was born May 24, 1938 in Center Point, West Virginia. She moved to Ohio as a young child, attended Harvey High School and later married James Daugherty(preceded)June 10,1969. She leaves behind her daughter Brenda VanOver(Erik) and her son Scott Daugherty(Kristina), Grandchildren Shane VanOver(Carissa) and Logan VanOver, Son Ronnie Roby, Brother Harry Jr. Hyde (Linda). She was preceded by her children Randy Roby, Darlene Roby, Vaughn Kuhn, her sister Marlene Hodges, parents Harry Sr. Hyde and Gertrude Bradley(Boyce).

She was loved and cherished by those who knew her and is now called to her heavenly home.

A private memorial service will be held in her honor at 11:00am October 13 at Western Reserve Memorial Gardens 11521 Chillicothe Rd. Chesterland, Oh 44026. In lieu of sending flowers, we ask that anyone who would like to, please make a donation to the Alzheimers Association at act.alz.org.

Jeffrey P. Benedict

Jeffrey P. Benedict passed away on August 24, 2023. Beloved son of James and Elizabeth Benedict. Brother to James (Joyce) Benedict, John (Joanne) Benedict, Judy (Chuck) Bevington, Jeanne Benedict, and Joanie (Herman) Mullola.

Uncle to: Becky, Amy, Carrie, Katie, Jackie, Chuckie, Paula, Jenny, Hope, and Matthew.

Beloved life-long friend to Tom and Chris Braun, and their family. Jeff was a graduate of Chardon High School, and Case Western Reserve University. Jeff was an avid tennis player, and never missed a professional tennis tournament. He enjoyed playing cards, attending concerts, and traveling to Las Vegas. He lived in Vegas for several years.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, September 23, 2023 at Pilgrim Lutheran Brethren Church, 9514 Johnnycake Ridge Road, Mentor, OH 44060. Visitation will be at 9:00AM, and the service will being at 10:00AM. Luncheon to follow the service.

Lois E. Potts

Lois E. Potts, of Wickliffe, Age 93  passed on August 20, 2023

Loving Mother of, Tom Potts, Kathy Madore (Potts).

Grandmother to Brant Potts, Kristy Abouassaly (Potts) Jill Puma (Potts) Tony Madore, Tina Ward (Madore).

Great Grandmother to Tommy, Braelynn Potts, Zavier, Laila Abouassaly, Nathan, Kyle, Lucas Puma, Abigail, Olivia Bickel, Finn Ward

Lois (Mom, Grandma Lolo) was a loving, kind and generous person, who lived a simple life and loved everyone. Her sense of humor was always present.  

She worked for many years as a cashier for Fazio's and volunteered at Lake West in her retirement. Music, dancing and Polkas were her favorite pastimes. Her great sense of humor and fondness to be teased and to tease made her company a real pleasure. She required an assisted living facility in her later years, where she was loved by all her caregivers and fellow residents. 

Gathering and Memorial Mass Saturday 8/26/23 at St Marys of the Assumption 8560 Mentor Ave, Mentor, OH. Gathering 10am,Mass 11am.

Kimberly Ann Miller Loos

Kimberly Ann Miller Loos (Boesch), of Painesville, Ohio, age 59, ended her battle with cancer and went home to be with her Savior on Friday, August 18, 2023 in Euclid, Ohio. She was born on August 18, 1964, and preceded in death by her parents Patricia Ann Boesch Brace (Devine) and William Jacob Boesch Jr. She was further preceded in death by her brother Joseph Brace, father-in-law Roger Loos, and first husband of thirty-one years Eric Paul Miller. After the passing of her first husband, she found happiness again, marrying Kirt Loos who brought her love filled with companionship, laughter, joy, and support in her final years. Kimberly is further survived by her daughter Katherine Braithwaite (Miller) (Benjamin) and son Lucas Miller; step children Kyle Loos (Leila), Savannah McGowan (Loos) (Tyler), and Jarrod Loos (Missy); granddaughters Penelope and Clementine Braithwaite, step-grandchildren Andrew and Gabriel Loos, and Declan McGowan; siblings William Boesch III (Susan), Kristine Boesch, Brent Boesch (Lisa), Shelly Schick (William), and Tina Casbohm (Ed); aunt Diane Boesch; mother-in-law Dee Loos; siblings-in-law Brett Loos (Carla), Chet Loos (Jacki), and Bart; and many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, and treasured friends.

The oldest of seven siblings, Kimberly as a teen could be counted on to boss her siblings, instigate them into ruckus, or tattle on them — “for their own good.” When she was eighteen, Kimberly eloped to Georgia to marry Eric Miller after finishing his Army basic training at Fort Stewart. Together they carved out a life driven by simple goals and a desire to be together. As an adult, she was a listening ear, confidant, and counselor whenever she was needed. When difficult moments or days were had, Kimberly was a mother who would rise to the occasion to provide encouragement and strength for her children. Kimberly was a candy-striper in her teens and went on to graduate as a registered nurse from St. Vincent’s School of Nursing in Erie, Pennsylvania. In her early nursing career (Erie County, PA), she nursed the elderly at Pleasant Ridge Manor and Brevillier Village. Additionally, she was a private practice nurse for Dr. DeFranco. Kimberly ended her career as a devoted and compassionate pediatric home health nurse for twenty years working for Interim Healthcare and Bayada Home Healthcare. It was not just a job to her but a calling. She cared for and advocated for each child as if they were her own.

Kimberly enjoyed concerts, traveling, nature, flower gardening, and watching and feeding wild birds. She enjoyed cheering on the Pittsburgh Steelers to the humorous vexation of her husband Kirt (a Cleveland Browns fan). However, together they enjoyed cheering for the Cleveland Indians. Kimberly was a member of Grand River Baptist Church with her husband Kirt. She found comfort in scripture and hymns. She was a woman who prayed without ceasing (and encouraged others to do the same), clinging to the passage in 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 “Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.”

Kimberly lived a life full of love and resilience. She will be remembered for her warmth, forgiveness, and her ability to make those around her feel loved and important.

A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, August 23rd, 2023 at 11:00 AM at Grand River Baptist Church, 742 Madison Avenue, Painesville, Ohio 44077. Flowers may be delivered to the church between 9 and 10 AM on Wednesday. Cards may also be sent to the church.

James "Jim" R. Oberg

James "Jim" R. Oberg age 95,passed away peacefully on August 14, 2023. Born to the late John and Helen Oberg. Jim was a lifelong resident of Lake County.He leaves behind his sons Gilbert of Willoughby, David (Shari) of Chardon, and daughter Pamela of Columbus. Grandfather of Curt (Sarah) of Mentor, and Bruce. Jim was married for 69 years to the late Doris.His hobbies included gardening, traveling, crossword puzzles, and most of all his morning coffee with his best friend Paul Chapman of Perry. He was an army veteran who served in The Korean War. Jim was employed for and retired from Lake Truck. One of his greatest joys was watching his grandsons play sports.All Services will be Private. Donations in his name may be made to St. James Episcopal Church in Painesville.

Turena L. Zelenak

Turena L. Zelenak “Turtle” of Cleveland, OH, was a remarkable soul full of love and happiness. Turena’s soul was set free on Friday, August 11, 2023 due to heart complications. Born on April 25, 1957 to Jesse and Robert Lee Hetrick in Brownsville, PA, a sister to Bill and Donna, a mother to her two children, Christina and Jozsef, and a grandmother to her four grandchildren, Alexis, Hayley, John and Cayden, Turena was loved by many and will be dearly missed. 

Turena was a happy soul who always looked forward to her daily iced coffee and spending time with her family. An avid scratch-off lottery ticket winner, Turena loved to spoil her little white dog, Snowy. 

All who have crossed paths with Turena are welcome to attend the Celebration of Life services. The services will be held at the Friendship of Alliance Church at 19126 Ravenna Rd. Chagrin Falls, OH 44023 on Saturday, September 9th from 2-5 PM.

Frank Joseph Holmes

Frank Joseph Holmes, age 54 of Cleveland, Ohio, passed away unexpectedly on August 6, 2023.  He was a graduate of North High School located in Eastlake, Ohio.

Frank, often referred to as “Homey,” worked at Edwins Leadership & Restaurant Institute in Cleveland Ohio.  He previously worked at Hilton Garden Inn and several other restaurants/locations as a prep/line cook.  Frank was a hard worker, and always willing to help others. 

Frank enjoyed cartoons, crafting, listening to music, cross word puzzles and food.  He also loved Halloween and taking his kids/nieces and nephews trick-or-treating.   He was a kind man with a big heart.

Frank is survived by his daughter Rebecca Green-Holmes (fiancé Lee Thomas); son Nick Green-Holmes (Rosemary); Brother William Fade; Brother Joseph Griffin (Susan); and several aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Frank was preceded in death by his Father Francis Wayne Homes; Mother Jean Fade Holmes (Griffin); Brother Robert (Nancy) Fade.

 A private celebration of life will be held at a later date.  May he rest in peace.

Donald Kocevar Jr.

Donald "Donny" Kocevar Jr. passed away on August 4, 2023, after a brave 2.5 year battle with Stage 4 metastatic melanoma. 

He leaves behind his loving wife Jessica (nee Somerville) and children Shelby, Shawn, Shana, Shyanne, Alexis, and Madelyn Kocevar. He is also survived by his bonus (step) children Chelsea, Jacob, and Caleb Cantrell, brothers David Kocevar and Bobby Leonard, Grandmother Barb White, mother in law Kathy Somerville, sisters in law Christina (Theiss) Hayden and Julie Theiss, nephew Josh Walker, niece Riley Leonard, close friends Justin Brady and Dan Osborne, and beloved dog, Chester. 

Donny was preceded in death by his mother Kim (White) Hoffecker, grandfather John White, uncle Shawn White, aunt Kelly White, and nephew Chris Walker. 

He was born on October 29, 1980. He grew up in Painesville Township, Mentor on the Lake and Willoughby/ Eastlake area. Donny earned a living as a truck driver. Starting out driving a garbage truck then ending with a cement mixer truck. He loved music, such as 80's big hair bands (especially Alice In Chains), country, metal, and classic rock.  He enjoyed traveling, trying new restaurants, grilling, being outdoors, bonfires, family and friends, river walking, Netflix shows, tattoos, Halloween and Jeeps. He was a Harley Davidson enthusiast. He was known for his Levi jeans, fresh pair of shoes and flannel shirts. He had quite the shoe collection! Donny's favorite place was the Gulf of Mexico, where he, Jessica and the kids made many memories together.  He enjoyed eating fresh seafood, searching for seashells at the edge of the ocean. He also loved searching for alligators and boa constrictors in the Everglades. Donny was a gentle, soft hearted, loving father, husband and friend who tried his best to help anybody in need. He had quite a silly side to him that could make anyone laugh. He was also quite the level headed, rational "peace maker" when need be. To know Donny, was to love him! He proudly just celebrated 6.5 years of sobriety from alcohol. Even though Donny has entered his eternal life, his memory will live on forever through his family and friends. 

"You're like a shooting star in the rain, you're everything that feels like home to me."

Cremation will be handled by Blessings Cremation Center. At Donny's request, there will be no services. 

In honor of Donny, and others battling cancer, please consider donating in his name to the National Foundation of Cancer Research.