Dorothy J. Cooper Gaebelein

Dorothy J. Cooper Gaebelein, 69, passed away on June 20, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. 

Preceded in death by infant son Phillip Aaron, father William, sister Maryanne and brother Bill. 

Survived by husband David, daughters Kelly (Wes) Reynolds, Betsey (Ben) Chapman, Jill (Doug) Laukonis.  Grandchildren Evan, Emily, Erik Laukonis and Cheyanne (Nitin)Gupta. Mother Helen L. Heath.  Siblings George (Mary Beth) Cooper, Linda (Steve) Smith, Deb Cooper-Murray, Mark (Patty Cooper. Aunt Linda McElwain and several cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Dottie’s greatest joy in life were her grandchildren.

A Graveside Service will be held on September 14, 2024 at 2:00PM at the Bellevue Cemetery. 

In lieu of flowers please make any donations to the Lupus Foundation of America or the American Heart Association.

Steve Sajner

Steve Sajner, 71, a life-long resident of Painesville, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family after a decade of fighting and conquering AML and a battle with pulmonary fibrosis. Friends and family were grateful to be by his side to spend his last days together as his final fight concluded. Steve was born in 1952 in Painesville to Steve and Julia (Nemeth) Sajner. He was a 1971 graduate of Riverside High School in Painesville Township and married his high school sweetheart Leila Lampinen in 1973. They were happily married for 50 years and would have celebrated their 51st anniversary together this summer.

Steve, like his father before him, was the owner/operator of Lake County Door in Painesville until the mid-nineties when he decided to sell the business and pursue other interests. Until his AML diagnosis in 2014 and successful stem-cell transplant, thanks to his “perfect match” and dear sister Carole in 2015, Steve had been an avid cross-country and downhill skier. He loved to travel, especially across the country to visit National Parks. He loved spending time with his family and friends, woodworking, canoeing, tending to the vegetable garden, and rebuilding classic cars. He took great pride in rebuilding a 1930 Ford Model A side-by-side with his father before his father’s passing in 1990 and continued to work on his 1969 Camaro until it became too difficult for him. He will be watching over his son-in-law and grandson as they take over where he had stopped.

Steve is survived by his wife Leila (Lampinen); daughters, Lynette (Jon) Ruple of Munson and Suzette (Shane) Horner of Concord; grandchildren, Jonathon (Jack) and William Henry (Hank) Ruple, and Steven, Smith, and Sarah Grace Horner. He is also survived by his sisters Carole (Doug, deceased) Hunt, Judy (Vince) Roessner, and Sandie Sajner and brother-in-law Mauri Lampinen; along with numerous loving nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father, Steve Sajner (1990), mother Julia Sajner (1997), and brother-in-law Doug Hunt (2021).

A celebration of Steve’s life will be held at a later date per his wishes. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you take a moment to hug someone dear to you and give thanks for those in your life. The family is so grateful for everyone that has been rooting for Steve over the years with prayers and those that were with him at the very end. Should you wish to make a donation in his memory, please consider the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society; without their medical research, he would not have been a candidate for the transplant that provided him so many extra years with his family and friends.

Margit Jamieson aka Eila Margit Elisabet Salonen Jamieson

Margit Jamieson, aka Eila Margit Elisabet Salonen Jamieson, age 81 of Leroy Twp, Ohio passed away peacefully at her home surrounded by her loving family on June 4th, 2024. She was born in Juva, Finland on October 30, 1942 to Ilmari and Toini(Savolainin) Salonen.

Margit epitomized the Finnish word Sisu in both life and death. She was tenacious, strong willed, courageous, resilient and determined to succeed in the face of overwhelming odds. Margit left her impoverished and difficult childhood in Finland with a 7th grade education and immigrated to America in 1960 where she flourished. With the support of her sponsors and mentors she graduated from high school in three years.

Margit met the love of her life, Jim, and they married November 24, 1965. She continued her passion for education at Lake Erie college pursuing her scientific interests. She took a break to raise three exceptional daughters, Katrina, Ann Marie and Carol. Her dedication and determination helped her youngest special needs daughter Carol reach her full potential.

Margit returned to college and graduated with a BSN from Kent State University. She enjoyed a successful nursing career as an intensive care nurse at St Luke’s Hospital. She left a lasting impression on her patients due to her compassionate care and dedication to their comfort and well being. Margit finished her career as an educator, training returning nurses in the current skills and technologies at Cleveland State University. She made a lasting impact on her students, many of whom were grateful for her direct, patient, knowledgeable and compassionate methods to successfully train them to provide the best nursing care.

Margit’s interests were multifaceted. She was an avid reader, gardener, seamstress and nature lover. She was also a highly skilled cook, preparing large meals. Most of all Margit thrived on her relationships with her family and friends, having a positive influence on the many people she encountered. Becoming a grandmother, Mummu, to Ayla and Brenna, she shared her passions and infinite love and helped them develop into the women they are today. She was overjoyed when her great granddaughter Lark became part of her life. She spent every moment she could with her.

After retiring she spent half the year at her Gunflint Lake cabin along the Minnesota Canadian border. She was an active and valued member of the community, developing many friendships. Margit was also a world traveler, exploring every continent. She fulfilled her lifelong dream journeying to Antarctica in January 2023 with her family.

Margit leaves behind Jim, her devoted husband of 58 Years, daughters Katrina (Brian) King and Ann Marie (Tim) Whipkey, granddaughters Ayla (Jake) Soderberg and Brenna King, great granddaughter Lark Soderberg, siblings Kaarlo Salonen, Charles Kujala, Marilyn Pirjo Salonen Kujala and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her daughter Carol Jamieson, siblings Sirkka Timonen, Annalee Ilenda, and Bryan Kujala.

A Celebration for Life will be held at Hellriegels Inn, 1840 Mentor Ave. Tuesday June 25th, 2024 5pm - 8pm. Dinner will served with a service at 6pm. In Lieu of flowers please consider donating to the American Cancer Society or the Alzheimers Association.

Elsie Marion Hill

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Elsie Marion Hill affectionately known as Sally. Sally passed away May 31, 2024 in Painesville Ohio, Sally was born on October 26, 1934 to James and Lenore Wilkie in Cleveland, Ohio
She is proceeded in death by her parents, James and Lenore Wilkie her brother Robert C Wilkie, and two sons Kenneth S. Hill and Robert J Hill she is survived by her brother James Wilkie, Barbara, and remaining children William Hill, Charles Hill, (Regina) Dean, Hill, Keith Hill and Kimberly Christie, (Jan ) Sally loved all her grandchildren and was very proud that she had so many! She had 21 grandchildren 10 great grandchildren and two great great grandchildren.

Sally was an active member of the Jehovah witnesses in Mentor Ohio. She loved attending the conventions and assemblies each year, and seeing her friends from all the different congregations she had attended, She loved country music, cowboy hats, traveling playing cards. She was a card, shark crafts and crocheting, blankets dish cloths and dish towels to give to all her friends and family.
She was dearly loved by her family and friends and will be missed by many .

Funeral Services will be at 1:00PM June 15, 2024 at the Mentor Kingdom Hall, 7642 Chillicothe Rd., Mentor, OH 44060.

JOHN J. HOVANCE

John J. Hovance, 76, of Mentor peacefully passed away at home on June 3, 2024,  surrounded by his loving family.  He was born February 24, 1948 in Cleveland.

John graduated from Willoughby South High School in 1966, he was a true South High Rebel making his mark playing football, running track and high jump.

John retired from National Acme in 2010.   He enjoyed boating, fishing and playing golf.  John’s true love was his family and being the best PaPa to his grandchildren.

Survivors include his high school sweetheart, wife of 56 years, Linda (Miller) Hovance; children Staci (Dan) Lease and Michael (Frances) Hovance; grandchildren Hannah Lease, Stephan Lease, Alexis Hovance and Brooklyn Hovance; sister Cathy Daniels, and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his son Andrew (Megan) Hovance; mother Ruth Hovance; father Andrew Hovance; brothers Robert Hovance, Andrew (Butchie) Hovance and sister RuthAnn Bradley.

A celebration of John’s life will be held at a later date.  In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Hospice of the Western Reserve, 17876 St. Clair Ave., Cleveland, Ohio 44110. The family would like to thank the “Angels” from HWR for their loving care in John’s final days.

Rest in peace my love till we meet again.

MICHAEL JOSEPH MCCAFFERTY

Surrounded by his family, Michael Joseph McCafferty passed away on June 2nd, 2024 at the age of 47.  

Michael was the devoted and loyal son of Diana McCafferty (Adkins) (deceased). He was born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio before relocating to San Diego, California in 2010. After courageously fighting cancer for over a year he decided to return to the support of his family in Ohio.  

Mike will be remembered as a vocal, dedicated Cleveland Sports fan. He spent his free time collecting sports cards, enjoying Marvel movies, and traveling. He was known as the “Lover of the Buffalo” and the master of the retrigger during his frequent stops in Las Vegas.  

Mike’s strong will and spirit will continue in the lives of his loving sister Teresa Carter, brother-in-law James Carter, nephews Mason and James Carter Jr, nieces Megan (Douglas) Land and Ashley (Dustin) Russell, and great nieces Brielle, Carlie, Laramie and Madelene. Mike was preceded in death by his nephew Zachary Carter.  

Mike also leaves behind his lifelong best friend, brother Keith Lababidi, sister-in-law Meigan Lababidi, nephew Salim, and niece Viola. His departure has broken the hearts of his cousins and chosen extra siblings Samantha Lababidi, Sam Lababidi, Belinda Lababidi and Danielle Fields.    As well as many Aunts, Uncles, cousins, co-workers and friends who loved him over the years.  

The family would like to thank the entire staff at UCSD Hospital, San Diego California, the caregivers at Cleveland Clinic and the staff of the Hospice of Western Reserve for their patience and understanding while Mike battled this disease HIS WAY and they ensured that he held onto his independence until the very last moments.  

Mike was forever grateful to his brother in law, James for being his partner in crime at every Chemo session and providing hands on care when he needed it the most. Mike greatly appreciated the quality time he was able to spend with his Aunt Belinda recently as she visited and helped him. Mike would also like to thank his dear friend, Danielle for helping him transition between states, attending appointments with him and just dealing with him.  

The family will be forever grateful that Mike was able to leave this world on his terms and would like to personally thank Keith for pushing through his pain to provide Mike with the dignity of care he deserved.  

Per Mike’s specific wishes, Memorial Services will be held privately and at multiple locations and times throughout the following year. If you would like to find a way to honor Mike in your  way now, take a moment out of your day and tell those you love how much they mean to you.  

Sean Luberger

Sean Luberger, beloved father to Kyler Thomas, brother, uncle and friend to many; has passed away. 

The family will host a celebration of life memorial and encourage guests to come prepared to share stories about Sean. Services to be held on June 29th, in the Schaefer room at Willoughby Hills Community Center 35400 Chardon Rd. Willoughby Hills, Ohio 44094 from noon to 4pm. 

In lieu of flowers, you can make donations to the Lake Humane Society in memory of Sean Luberger.

If you have any information to report about Sean's disappearance please contact the Copley police department, at 330-666-8866. Reference case number 22405097.

Winifred “Winnie” Miller

Winifred “Winnie” (nee Shave) Miller went to Heaven on May 16th, 2024. Winnie was the beloved wife of Vincent Paul Miller who preceded her in death in 1979. Winnie is survived by 3 children, Jacqueline Miller Kegg (George), Joyce Miller Shields (Frank, deceased) and Paul Miller (Dixie, deceased). Also surviving are 16 grandchildren, 14 great grandchildren,

2 great, great grandchildren and family friend, Eileen Powell. Two beloved children also preceded her in death, Steven Miller (Michelle), and Joan Miller Powell (David, deceased)

Winnie was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania to Samual Richard and Fannie Shave on August 10, 1920. Her family moved to Ohio in 1958 where she earned a degree in education from Lake Erie College and taught Kindergarten for 20 years. After retiring, Winnie traveled with friends, was involved with AAUW, the Miscellany Club, the Music and Drama Cub, several bridge clubs, and a volunteer and active member of The First Church Congregational in Painesville..

Winnie was a loving mother and grandmother who provided all of her family members with much love, support and encouragement throughout her 103 years.

Arrangements for a private gravesite service are pending.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Cypress Hospice, 2 Berea Commons #1, Berea, OH 44017

Barry Stanley Oltmanns

Barry Stanley Oltmanns, age 89, of Painesville Township, Ohio, passed away on May 23, 2024. He was born on February 24, 1935, in Cleveland, Ohio.

Barry will always be remembered as a devoted husband to Janet (Novakovic), a loving father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend to many. In his early years, Barry enjoyed camping vacations, spending time with his family, woodworking, and helping to build a thriving printing business. He proudly served in the US Navy in the late 1950s and had a deep love for his country.  Barry is Preceded in death by his loving daughter, Beth Katz.

Barry Stanley Oltmanns will be dearly missed by all who knew him, but his memory will live on in the hearts of those whose lives he touched.

A Memorial Service will be held on June 3, 2024, with a gathering at 9:30 am in the main Mausoleum, followed by the Service at 10:00 am at Western Reserve Memorial Gardens, located at 11521 Chillicothe Road (Ohio State Route 306), Chesterland, Ohio 44026.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Zion Lutheran Church, 508 Mentor Ave, Painesville, Ohio 44077.

Margaret “Margie” Swank-Brunson

Margaret "Margie" Swank-Brunson gained her wings on Sunday May 26,2024 surrounded by her family. 

Born March 22, 1957 to Roy and Freida Swank, Margie was just 67 years old when she lost her battle with ovarian cancer. 

She loved spending time with her family and traveling, especially to the beach where she could see the palm trees. She enjoyed special coffee times, listening to golden oldies, dancing, watching soap operas, and playing games with friends on the computer. One of her favorite things to do would be to watch the sunsets and occasionally a sunrise. She always looked forward to her Friday night sleepovers with her nephew and one of her biggest supporters, Alex Swank. 

Margie is mourned by her children Tammy (Nick) Molnar, Dan (Amy) Brunson, Joe (Denise) Brunson and Clint (Katie) Pachay. Her grandchildren Michelle Brunson, Travis (Natalie) Brunson, Jason (Amanda) Brunson, and Alyssa (Kiana) Molnar. Siblings Linda (Bill) Foreman, Ruth (Joe) Zunic, Steve Swank, and Roy Swank. Many nieces, nephews, other family members and friends will also miss her. 

Margie is joining her parents Roy and Freida Swank, brother Tom Swank, sister Sue Lawson, grandson Tommy Brunson, niece Heather Swank and nephews Michael Lee Swank, Scott Foreman and Jerry Anderson. 

The family would like to thank Dr. Danielle Cooper, Dr. Amy Armstrong, the staff of Seidmen Cancer Center and the staff at the David Simpson Hospice House for the excellent care they gave to our mother. You were all amazing.

A private family burial will take place at a further date. 

Carol A. Mazzola

Carol Mazzola (nee Masur) of Euclid Ohio. Beloved wife of the late Fred. Loving mother of Joe Glicken (Jacqueline), Julie Oldorf (deceased) (Rick), Larry Glicken (Debbie, deceased)(Beth), John Glicken (Vicki), Mitch Glicken (deceased) (Sandy), Marilyn Glawe (Stephan), Sandi Dennis, and Steven Mazzola (deceased) (Robin). Carol was the loving grandmother of 16 grandchildren and 20 great grandchildren. Her warm and giving heart will be greatly missed.

Mary Zupan

Mary Zupan, nee Greisl, 80, passed away on May 11, 2024, surrounded by her loving family.

Mary, nicknamed "Meece" in high school, was known for her quiet , sweet nature and strong faith. Her long career at Jergens, Inc. in Cleveland, OH, was followed by years of service with a woman's faith group and a deep devotion to her bible study friends. Her family was her greatest joy and she chesged every moment spent with them.

Mary is survived by her children Thomas Smith, Patricia (Dean) Putzbach, step-son Craig Zupan, beloved grandson Joshua Smith, granddaughter Jessica (Daniel) Tutulo, two great grandchildren, and her loving and devoted sister Carol (David) Woellert.

A funeral mass is being held at St. John Vianney Church located at 7575 Bellflower Rd in Mentor, OH 44060 at 9:30 AM on Friday, May 17, 2024.  The service will be streamed live at https://sjvmentor.org/ and followed by interment at All Soul's Cemetery in Chardon, OH.  Donations may be made to Hospice of the Western Reserve or the American Cancer Society.

Rest in peace dear Mary. Your love, grace and kind spirit will never be forgotten.

Diane Bishop

Diane Bishop age 70, of Chardon, OH, passed away suddenly on May 13, 2024. She loved her dog “Meko” very much. She is preceded in death by her parents Jack, and Olive Bishop, sister Kathy Stone, and nephew Steven Stone. She is survived by her loving daughters Jodi(Rob) Michener, and Lisa Bishop, brother Scott (Robb) Bishop, Brother-in-law Daryl Stone, Four grandchildren Celia (Ethan) Narehood, Alan Michener, Alexandria Michener, William (Fiance Lauren) Michener, and great-grandson Colton Narehood,

All Services will be private at this time. 

Kathy Stone

Kathy Stone of Chardon, ohio passed away on May 1st, 2024. She and her loving husband Daryl were married for 47 years. Kathy really loved all her cats they had with all her heart. She is preceeded in death by her parents Jack and Olive Bishop, and son Steven Stone. She is survived by her husband Daryl Stone, sister Diane Bishop, and brother Scott (Robb) Bishop, neice Jodi (Rob) Michener, neice Lisa Bishop, great neices and nephews, and a great great nephew. No services will held at this time.

Cynthia J. Kovach

Cynthia Kovach of Mentor, passed away Sunday May 5, 2024 at home with her loving family by her side. She fought a determined Battle with COPD for a decade. She worked in administration at Hillcrest Hospital, John Carroll University, Chester Township and Blunden and Barclay Architects. She is survived by her sisters Nancy Bittner, and Angela Hunt (Vince), her nephew Joey Hunt, and her partner of 40 years, Larry Stratton. She was the loving stepmom of Melissa Halpin, Shannon Domonkos, and Lawrence Stratton Jr. She was a loving grandma to Kailie, Jadeyn, Griffin, Nicholas, Matthew, Logan, and Zachary. She was preceded in death by her parents Joseph Vitale, Ruth Roth, and her brother Joseph Vitale.

She will be remembered as a woman who deeply loved her family & friends, with a quick sense of humor that always engaged people. Cynthia never met a horse or dog that she didn’t love, and had an amazing bond with her many pets, throughout the years. We extend heartfelt thanks to the loving staff at Hospice, who made her final journey as peaceful as possible.

Donations may be made in her name to Hospice of the Western Reserve, or the Lake Human Society at 7564 Tyler Blvd., Bldg E.

Quentin Joseph Newton

Quentin Joseph Newton, known affectionately as “Q” to his friends and family, passed away unexpectedly on April 16, 2024 at the age of 32. Q was a beacon of light with his goofy humor and kind-hearted nature.

Q’s life was marked by his unwavering loyalty and protective spirit towards those he loved. His hard working character and ability to bring levity to any situation were his hallmarks. He enjoyed cats, spending time with family and friends, and cheering for the New England Patriots. After several years in Florida, Q returned to his roots in Ohio, where he dedicated himself to reconnecting and strengthening bonds with family and friends.

He leaves behind a loving family: his mother Deborah Thompson, brothers Justin Thompson and Zackarie (Abby) Newton, grandparents Sally and Clarence Hall, uncles Scott Hall and Jeff Newton, aunt Kathy Tepley, nephew Brayden Thompson, niece Charlotte Newton, as well as step siblings Alyssa (Myke), Dakota (Elizabeth), Cheyanne (Jason), Sierra (David) and all of their children. Q’s presence will be profoundly missed but his spirit will continue to inspire all who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his father and paternal grandparents. 

A Celebration of Life will be held in Q’s honor on May 14, 2024, from 4 pm to 8 pm at Redhawk Grille (7481 Auburn Road Concord, OH 44077). Friends and family are invited to come and go as they please. Attendees are encouraged to share memories and stories, reflecting the joy and laughter that Q brought into our lives.

Brenda Joyce Lawson

Edward B and Brenda J Lawson reunited in eternal bliss for all the ages. 

Brenda Joyce Lawson, nee Kujansu, 79, passed away on April 26, 2024, under Hospice Care.

Brenda, a loving mother, grandmother, and aunt, fulfilled a lifelong dream when she reached her early 40s and enrolled in the Willoughby-Eastlake School of Practical Nursing. She graduated in 1988 and then went on to work for Lake Hospital System. Her nursing career took her to both Lake East and Lake West hospitals. She retired from nursing in the late 90s. 

“Born in Painesville, Ohio,” she is survived by daughters, Karen Jennings, and Belinda (Brett) Watkins, Nicole Brody, and sons, Robert (Tina) Rowe, Frederick (Michelle) Lawson and Edward Lawson Jr., several nieces and nephews, along with 13 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren. Brenda's grandsons, Robb and Timothy Carter, along with daughter Karen, and son Fred, as well as great-niece Crystal Beres and loving family friend, Tracee Dennison, count themselves as blessed to have shared her final years which supplied her with loving care and a safe home. 

She is preceded in death by her parents, Arvo and Lola Kujansu, nee Staten, husband, Edward B. Lawson Sr., son Arvo “Rusty” Jennings, and daughter Kathryn (Patrick) Budd, along with great-grandchildren Lil’ Robert and Maddie Rowe. 

She is also preceded in death by her sisters, Darlene (Jerry) Miller, and Olive (Ron) Stanley. 

In 1993, Brenda and her husband, Eddie, purchased property on Lake Erie. Soon after, the two of them, along with other concerned citizens and local officials from Painesville Township, launched a grassroots movement to address environmental concerns which included pollution and shoreline erosion.  The pair were issued a 50-year land lease which allowed them to take active measures to save their shoreline property. 

It wasn’t unusual for family and friends to join the Lawsons for an evening visit to share the beauty of Lake Erie which included dramatic sunsets or spectacular views of serene sailboats bobbing across the horizon. 

As their lakeside land improved under their watchful eye, bald eagles began to return to their property and nest nearby. Today the eagle population thrives in that area and it’s not unusual to see these majestic creatures perched in one of the trees Brenda and Eddie planted on their property decades earlier. 

A Celebration of Life is set for May 7th at Lakeside Baptist Church, 306 Fairport Nursery Rd., Painesville. Visitation with family and friends begins at 4:30 pm followed by a 6 pm memorial service. 

The family wishes to extend its unending gratitude toward Dr. Tam McLean MD. and staff in Willoughby, Ohio, for their professionalism and kindness given the past several years. Also, the family is extremely grateful for the staff who assisted during her final days at the David Simpson Hospice Center in Cleveland. 

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Hospice of Western Reserve. Visit www.hospicewr.org/Give for more information

Albert A. Naples

Albert A. Naples,  born March 11,1971 passed April 19th 2024. "Bert" was not only a servicemen in the army but was a outstanding union worker, Jack of all trades. He could build a house from the ground up by himself and save your life while doing it as he was a former EMT .He was a traveler, who could look at a map or GPS and get you there without looking back twice.  He is survived by his son Devin hanisek, daughter Josephine Naples. Brothers Michael Naples Joseph Naples, sister Gabrielle Naples, Uncle's Anthony and Ted Naples. nephews Anthony , Corrado Dante, Jeremy and Jr.Niece's Gabrielle and Latasha. Many aunts,uncles,cousins  numerous union workers friends and family. He was preceded in death by his parents Albert and Sandra Naples . He was loved and will truly be missed forever in our hearts.

Services will be held at St Mary Magdalene Church 32114 Vine Street in Willowick at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday May 7th 2024. And a celebration of life after the service will be at triple deuces tavern 783 East 222nd Street Euclid

Israel Jose Gonzalez Cruz

Israel Jose Gonzalez Cruz of Painesville, Ohio, age 34, fell asleep in death on April 27, 2024.

He was dearly loved by everyone who knew him, especially for his warm smile and generous nature.

Israel was born in Carolina, Puerto Rico to Israel Gonzalez Colon and Linsandra Cruz Rivera. He married his lovely wife, Marisol Hernandez Ayuso, on April 30, 2017, in Trujillo Alto, Puerto Rico.

Israel worked for Bescast in Willoughby, Ohio and truly enjoyed his job. He was very highly thought of by his employer and co-workers.

Israel was a talented musician who enjoyed playing musical instruments as well as he liked to sing and write songs, loved cooking for his family and friends, and playing sports with his two sons. Israel willingly helped people who needed it, even if he did not know them.

He was a member of the Chillicothe Spanish congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Mentor, Ohio where he volunteered his time teaching people how they could enjoy life now and in the future. Israel’s faith gave him the hope that he will be reunited again with his family.

Israel is survived by his wife, Marisol Hernández Ayuso, his two sons, Israel Gonzalez Jr and Yadiel Gonzalez, of Painesville, Ohio. His mother, Linsandra Cruz Rivera, paternal grandmother, Dona Filomena, paternal uncles, Elier González, Luis González, Maelo González, Iris González, Raquel González, Laura González, Omaira González, maternal uncles, Xiomara Cruz, Juan Cruz, Angela Cruz, Oscar Cruz, Pablo Cruz, Dalia Cruz, Antonio Cruz, Armando Cruz, Angela Cruz, and his cousins, Reycha, Reynaldo, Stephanie, Heidi, Franchesca, José, Miguel, and Jacob.

Israel was preceded in death by his father, Israel Gonzalez Colon, of Carolina, Puerto Rico.

A memorial service will be held May 4, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 7642 Chillicothe Road, Mentor, Ohio 44060.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Israel Jose Gonzalez Cruz Memorial Fund to give financial assistance to his wife and two sons. To donate click here: https://everloved.com/life-of/israel-gonzalez-cruz/donate/

Raymond Joseph Coatoam

Raymond Joseph (“Ray” or “Griz”) Coatoam departed this world in the early morning hours of April 23rd, 2024. Ray unapologetically lived his life on his own terms. He was a man of creative wit, prodigious intellect, and voracious appetite who also possessed an ardent disregard for societal norms and the expectations of others. He loved movies, television, books, intelligent discourse, innovative humor, food, making people laugh, and simple living. He despised bullies, arrogance, and those whom he felt flaunted advantages that they had not earned. Ray attended The Phillips-Osborne School in Painesville, Ohio, and was a graduate of Perry High School (2001), Kenyon College (B.A. Political Science 2005), and Cleveland State University College of Law (J.D. summa cum laude 2016). Ray began his career as an operative for the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, providing traveling support to Democratic campaigns for the US House of Representatives. Ray later earned his Juris Doctor while working full-time for a cancer research non-profit and found his calling in law, which he excelled at and took great satisfaction in practicing. He was known to be generous with his time and knowledge and frequently helped those around him solve challenging personal legal matters in his spare time. Ray himself could also be challenging - at times intractable, inscrutable, and a living contradiction of logic - but many people loved and respected him, regardless of whether he invited or agreed with such sentiments.

Ray was preceded in death by his father Jon Raymond “Butch” Coatoam, paternal grandfather Raymond Jon Coatoam, paternal grandmother Claire “Tootsie” Kekelis (nee Babic), maternal grandmother Virginia Terrell, maternal grandfather McConnel “Mac” Terrell, Uncle John Terrell, and Aunt Colleen Kekelis. He is survived by his mother Carolyn Terrell Coatoam, devoted companion Victoria Znidarsic, former wife Lauren MacLaren, older brother Jon McConnel Coatoam and sister-in-law Crystal Paone Coatoam, and numerous uncles, aunts, cousins, and good friends. Ray will be greatly missed but will live on in the fond memories of many.

Memorial services will be scheduled with friends and family at a future date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the American Cancer Society.