OBITUARIES

A Remembrance of Loved Ones

Christina LoPresti Christina LoPresti

Brenda Joyce Matish

Brenda Joyce Matish (née Ola), age 82, passed away peacefully on January 9, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. She was the beloved wife of the late Phillip A. Matish, devoted mother to Phillip (Kathy) Matish and Alison Matish, and cherished grandmother of Ashlyn, Maria, and Andrew. She is also survived by her brother, Pete Ola.

Born on October 10, 1942, in Washington, Pennsylvania, Brenda moved with her family to Euclid, Ohio, at the age of 14. After graduating from Dyke College in Cleveland, she worked as a legal secretary for Attorney Charles Lazzaro, Sr. before dedicating herself to raising her children. Brenda later returned to the workforce at Higbee's Department Store.  She resided in Euclid for 34 years before moving to Willoughby Hills in 1990.  Brenda embraced retirement with her husband, Phil, spending winters in Naples, Florida.  

She was an active member of Boulevard Presbyterian Church in Euclid and contributed her time and talents to the PTA.  Brenda also had a creative flair for floral arrangements, crafting beautiful designs for weddings and special occasions.  She was an avid reader and lifelong fan of General Hospital.

Brenda will be remembered for her kindness, generosity, and wonderful sense of humor. She treasured family gatherings and creating lasting memories with her grandchildren during sleepovers filled with games, stories and homemade treats.  Her warmth and love left an indelible mark on all who knew her.  

A woman of strength and resilience, Brenda faced Multiple Sclerosis with courage and grace. Her faith sustained her through life’s challenges, and she is now healed in Heaven.

A celebration of Brenda’s life will be held at a later date. May her memory bring comfort and joy to those who were fortunate to know and love her.

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Anne Zuchowski Anne Zuchowski

Bonnie Lou Vinci

Bonnie Lou Vinci (née Adams), age 66, passed away January 2, 2025, after suffering with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) for many years.  She was born April 22, 1958 to Shirley (deceased) and Robert Adams in Cleveland, OH.

In addition to her father, Bonnie is survived by her devoted husband of 44 years (and loving caretaker) Art, son Arthur (Trang) Vinci of Dennison, OH, precious granddaughter Gwenevere Vinci, and brother Dennis Adams of Tampa, FL.  She was a dear sister-in-law, aunt, niece, cousin, and friend to many.

A Celebration of Bonnie’s Life will be at Brennan’s Party Center, 13000 Triskett Road, Cleveland, OH on Sunday, January 12th, from 1:00-4:00, providing an opportunity for family and friends to gather in her honor.

Bonnie never complained of her infliction and soldiered on every day of her life. She will be dearly missed and forever in our hearts.

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Christina LoPresti Christina LoPresti

Janet G. Ross

Janet G. Ross,90,of Hambden Township, Chardon,Ohio,died Dec.26,2024.Born in Clinton,Conn.May 28,1934.The daughter of Paul W.and Loretta R. Graham(both deceased).Her half sister,Patricia W.Graham preceded her in death. She married William T. Ross(deceased) on Nov.1,1952 and together they loved and raised four children.Her eldest,Gayle (Lloyd)Smith died at 54 but she has her two grandsons,Mike(Evie)Smith and Joe(Katie)Boldensmith.Her 2nd child,Debra(Jerry)Sebright and her children,David(Nikki),Jason(Rachel) and Greg Kundrat.Her sons,Robert and Bryan(Tami)Ross.
Granddaughter by Rob, Alaura(Edward)Trout.By Bryan,Amanda(Bob)Stahlman,Eric(Eileen)Ross and Tyler Davidson.She also has 10 great grandchildren,Madison Ross,Aaron Musick,Edison Smith,Ruby,Gloria and Cedar Boldensmith,Sebastian,Cameron,Erica and Kalina Kundrat.The family would like to thank her caregivers Jennifer(Lenny)Laux.

She became one of Jehovah’s Witnesses in 1961 and loved teaching the Bible to her neighbors and family. Her husband, Bill and son, Rob later joined her and became Jehovah’s Witnesses.

She worked at Boy’s Big Boy Restaurant,G.C.Murphy dept. store,Newbury Rubber,Chardon Schools as a bus driver and Metzenbaum as a bus aide. She also babysat for many of her grandchildren and ones she “adopted” like Bridgette Kingery now Demko.She loved all her “kids”.When she retired,she delivered “meals on wheels” for Geauga Dept. on Aging.                                                                          

On Saturday January 11, 2025, we warmly invite you to join us starting at 2:30 PM, to remember our beloved Mother. There will be words of comfort shared from a designated speaker in memories of Janet at 3 PM. Afterwards, light refreshments and association will be shared. January 11,2025, 3PM                             Kingdom  Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses 110 Woodiebrook Road Chardon,Ohio 44024.                                       

Flowers or cards can be sent to the Ross Family at 13106 Woodin Rd. Chardon,Ohio 44024.                


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Christina LoPresti Christina LoPresti

Jeffery M. Velna

Jeffery M. Velna age 68 of Concord, passed away after a brief illness on December 26,2024.  Born on March 3, 1956, in Painesville Ohio to Thomas J Velna and Lois (Merrill) Flaccus. 

Survived by wife Judith (Martin) Velna, daughter Angelique Velna, sons Michael (Patty) Velna, Erik Velna.  Grandsons Tyrelle Early, Jaydyn Early, Andrew Velna, Jameson Velna, Tayvion Velna, Beau Velna.  Brother Thomas (Marta) Velna II.  Several nieces and nephews.  

Jeffery was a proud Navy veteran.  Family was Jeff’s priority.

A private family service will be conducted at a later date.  Blessings crematorium will be assisting the family.

A special thank you to Hospice of the Western Reserve nurses Amber & Rose for their empathy, compassion and dignity thatthey provided.  From the bottom of our hearts, we thank you.

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Christina LoPresti Christina LoPresti

Thomas “Tom, Tommy” H. DeLisio

Thomas “Tom, Tommy” H. DeLisio passed away unexpectedly on December 16, 2024. Loving father of Layla and Elayna DeLisio. Cherished son of Henry DeLisio and Kathleen (Whalen) DeLisio. Loving brother of Christine DeLisio Kremer (husband Steven Kremer), Joseph DeLisio (wife Kim DeLisio), and Michael DeLisio. Dear uncle of Sarah Rothert (Kremer) (married to Trent Rothert) and Natalie Kremer and Cassidy Attina, Nicholas Kremer and Joseph DeLisio (married to Rachel DeLisio). Numerous loving aunts, uncles, cousins and life long friends.

Tom earned a Bachelor's Degree from The Ohio State University. He was a software sales director most of his career. He loved his family, friends and sports, in particular all Cleveland sports teams and the Ohio State Buckeyes.

A Catholic Mass and celebration of Tommy's life will be held on April 23, 2025 at 12:00 pm at St. John Vianney in Mentor, Ohio. 

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Christina LoPresti Christina LoPresti

Louise Sagraves

Louise Sagraves 91 years young of 965 Tradewinds Cove, passed away at Grand River nursing facility peacefully December 19th.,2024, after an extended illness.  Her life was lived working  to support her two daughters in all endeavors.she worked 27 yrs. For Federal Glass as a professional glass selector. After their doors closed, she started work for Owens Illinois and worked there for 10 yrs., Until she retired. Her work record was impeccable . To know her, was to know strength and beauty. She loved shopping and traveling. Her two wonderful daughters were Katherine (deceased at 39)married to the amazing Landen Baisden Jr. Her other daughter Helen Scott 70 of Painesville Ohio and 9 beautiful grandchildren, Tammy Lynn Runyon  of Lenore WV, Landen Baisden Jr 111 of Dingess WV(deceased), Sarah Dawn  Queen of Harts Creek WV, Jason Baisden of Logan WV, Jennifer Ann Copley of Dingess WV, Matthew Baisden of Louisa KY and Amanda Kolkedy of Cross Lanes WV. Kenneth Honaker of Painesville Ohio and Kevin Honaker of Painesville Ohio. 

The family wishes to express our sincere appreciation to Grand River nursing facility for their superior love and care of Louise. Thanks to Hospice of The Western Reserve for stepping in towards the end to assist her in spiritual care,bathing, feeding and overall support. What a beautiful organization. In lieu of flowers, please donate to Hospice, so others may feel the blessing that Hospice so freely pours upon their patients. Thanks to Blessings Cremation for making this difficult time so much easier. We had preplanned Louise's cremation, so when the time arrived we were more prepared. Her funeral (celebration of life) will be in WV at the church of James Ed Baisden officiating . Exact time will be decided by family members.                           

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Christina LoPresti Christina LoPresti

David A. Ness

Dave Ness, age 76, passed away peacefully on Thanksgiving Day Morning, November 28, 2024, in his home that he made and built with his wife Connie and Alivia. His family was the most important thing to him.

Dave worked at every aspect of construction and maintenance and could build or fix almost anything. Dave loved to dance and was a very good dancer. He took a stained-glass class in Willoughby, and it quickly became a passion for him, teaching classes there, creating many pieces for his family and friends, and donating many pieces to charitable events. He was a member of the Louie Run Committee for many years, and he also delivered presale tickets to many locations allowing him the opportunity to build friendships that lasted throughout his lifetime. Dave loved to cook and especially to bake. He was famous among friends for his homemade apple pies. Dave loved to fish with his friend Dave, in Florida. He loved the Flea Market Circuit, with his cousin Jon Ondo. He volunteered at Alivia’s school during the book fairs, and the Santa Shops. He loved to watch Alivia dance and perform at her recitals.  He even performed with her at one of her recitals in front of a packed house at Riverside auditorium. Dave loved riding his Road King alongside his wife, Connie, and also with his friends, traveling all over the country; California, Florida, Colorado, Sturgis, and up through the Yukon Territory to Alaska.

Dave is survived by his wife Connie (Dolgoff) Ness, the love of his life, and his “baby girl” Alivia Dolgoff. His family also includes his daughter Rachael Dolgoff, and Tyrone and Aviyona, who called him “Papa.” He was also present for every concert, graduation, and sporting event in their lives. Rachael has been in his life since she was 4 years old, and he chose to love and support her, as if she was his own daughter. He would happily do anything they asked of him, and at the same time taught them how to do it all for themselves. His son Raymond traveled in and out of his life, and gifted him with a granddaughter Cheyenne Ness, and a new great-grandson, Rowen, who he was able to meet and hold recently.

Dave was the son of the late Lester and Audrey (Lockwood) Ness. He was close to his brothers Ron (Sandy) Ness, and Gary (Jeannie) Ness (deceased), whom he loved to meet up with for breakfast. His brother Dennis Ness would also meet up with them when he visited Montana. He also had a brother Michael Ness who died in Vietnam. He is also survived by sister’s Bonny and Vickie (deceased) and many nieces and nephews.

In accordance with Dave’s wishes, there will be no sad funeral, but rather a Celebration of Life for all who loved him in the Spring, when the weather is warm, and his motorcycle and others will be back out to celebrate his life.

I also want to thank Hospice of the Western Reserve for all their help and devotion to us this past 6 months. Dave refused most all pain medications as his sobriety (1990) was very important to him.

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Anne Zuchowski Anne Zuchowski

Carly N. Zehner (Harris)

With profound sadness, we share the passing of Carly N. Zehner (nee Harris), who departed this life on December 5, 2024 at the age of 47. Born on October 11, 1977, in Euclid, Ohio. Carly was a dynamic and passionate leader in the barbering industry. As a skilled service provider, dedicated instructor, and trusted mentor, she left an enduring mark on all who had the honor of learning from or working alongside her.

Carly was the treasured daughter of Ken and Judi Harris (nee Mucci), beloved sister of Natalie Durastante (nee Harris) and brother-in-law Mario A. Durastante II (deceased). She is survived by her devoted companion, David Desalvo, along with many aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, and students who were deeply touched by her kindness, generosity, and vibrant spirit.

Carly's life was enriched by her two cherished cats, Harley and Bear, who brought her comfort and joy. She found great happiness at Holiday Camplands in Andover, Ohio, where she created lasting memories with loved ones, embracing life’s simple pleasures. Carly's selflessness extended to her community, where she volunteered her time and talents to uplift those in need, exemplifying a life of compassion and service.
A true artist in her craft, Carly’s influence in the barbering world will live on through the countless students she inspired and the many lives she touched. Her passion, expertise, and dedication to excellence were unmatched and will continue to serve as a beacon of inspiration for all who knew her.  Carly’s infectious laughter, sense of humor, boundless warmth, and radiant presence will be deeply missed, but the love and legacy she leaves behind will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew her.

A celebration of Carly’s extraordinary life will be announced at a later date, providing an opportunity for family and friends to gather in her honor.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to a charity of your choice in Carly's name, ensuring her spirit of generosity and care continues to impact others.

Rest peacefully, Carly. Your light will shine eternally in our hearts.

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Anne Zuchowski Anne Zuchowski

Thomas F. Sanker “Tom”

Thomas F. (Tom) Sanker, age 78 of Chesterland, Ohio passed away December 4, 2024. Born March 25, 1946, he grew up in a lively household in Lyndhurst, Ohio. He attended Charles F. Brush High School and then served in the Army where he was stationed in Korea during the Vietnam War. Back home Tom worked for the family business, Vacuum Finishing, for a while before heading out West and spending time as a truck driver. He eventually made his way back to Northeast Ohio and settled there for good. Tom ran his own company, AMS Transport, for 8 years until this past May when he first became ill.

Tom was always on the move, often helping friends and family with various projects or repairs. He enjoyed spending time puttering around the house, fixing things in his garage workspace while listening to music, working in the yard, birdwatching, befriending and feeding the outside critters and giving them names. Tom will be remembered for his warm and generous spirit, huge smile, infectious laugh, and being the life of every party. He will be missed by many.

Tom is survived by his wife, best friend and soulmate Sharon Sanker (née Johnson); son Jonathan Adams-Sanker (Danielle) of Beaverton, OR; step-son Shane Coley of Solon, OH, and step-daughter Kristina Coley of St. Louis, MO (Michael Koehler); siblings Mary Jayne Sanker of Duvall, WA, John (Mary) Sanker of Chardon, OH, Peggy Sanker of Sanford, FL, Susan Wittler of Akron, OH, Steven (Jeannette) Sanker of Chardon, OH, and Michael Sanker of Chesterland, OH; mother-in-law Jean Johnson of Chardon, OH; longtime childhood friend Bob Anderson (Chris) of Colorado; many beloved nieces and nephews, cousins and so many wonderful friends. He is preceded in death by his father Jack, mother Virgina (née Spencer), and sister-in-law Nancy.

There will be no funeral services as per Tom’s wishes, though a celebration of life gathering will be forthcoming in 2025. In the meantime, raise a glass to Tom!

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Christina LoPresti Christina LoPresti

George Raymond Henderson

George Raymond Henderson, (92) passed away peacefully at home on December 3, 2024.  Born on November 19, 1932.  Beloved husband to Eleanor (nee Matthews).  Father of Kathleen (Jim) Veri, Timothy (Sandy), Christopher (Maria), Margaret (Kevin) Hermann, Scott (Jamie).

Grandfather of Brandon, Briana (Richard) Rousch, Cody (Kelly), Justine (Elise), Zachary, Jacob, Sarah, Cali, Cecelia, Ella and Jack.  Great Grandfather to Archer, Bryson, Landon, Riley, Bailey and Alexis.

Survived by Sister Janice Defrench, Sister-in-law Barbara (Bob) Henderson, Sister-in-law Jeanne (Don) Henderson.

Predeceased  by parents Frances (nee Devlin) and John Henderson; siblings Dolores (Edward) Kiernan, Don (Louise), John David (Bernice)(Pauline), Joyce (Don) Josephik, Robert, Patricia (David) Findlay. 

Uncle and great uncle to many. 

George and Elly worked hard and provided well for their five children and were blessed in their later years to winter in Hudson, Florida.  They resided in Concord Twp., Ohio for 60 years and were members of the Catholic Community of St. Gabriel before downsizing and moving to a cottage at Jennings Notre Dame Village in 2022.

George was a welder by trade at Farasey Steel Fabricator, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio and was a member of the Knights of Columbus Council 4130, and lifetime member of the American Welding Society, Cleveland, Ohio.  He had a passion for anything mechanical: cars, motorcycles, boats and tractors.  He always made sure his children had a reliable car (that he worked on tirelessly) and was eager to help with any projects that his family needed assistance with.  He enjoyed taking car trips, and loved taking his children sailing. 

George was a consummate Good Samaritan.  If you broke down on Route 90 between 1961 and 2009, George would have stopped to help you on his way to or from work.

A funeral mass will held 10:30 A.M. Friday, December 13, 2024 at St. Gabriel Catholic Church, 9925 Johnnycake Ridge Road, Concord Twp., Ohio 44060.

Our family was blessed and is very grateful to Abby, Tonja, and his Hospice team for the care they provided for the past two and a half years.  Family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Hospice of the Western Reserve.

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Christina LoPresti Christina LoPresti

David Paul Johnson

David P. Johnson age 73, passed away on December 4, 2024. Devoted father to Emily Johnson, and Andy (Brittany) Johnson,

Cherished grandfather to Aubrey, Daniel, Christopher and Espen. Loving brother of Sue (David) VanStone, and Beth Morrison.
Dear uncle of Jennifer (Ryan) Tighe, Justin (Bridget) Morrison, Elizabeth Van Stone (Michael), Matthew (Jasmine Lee) Van Stone. David was preceded in death by: Eloise (nee Bender) (mother) and Richard Wendell Johnson (father), Jack Morrison (brother in law)David was a graduate of Chagrin Falls High School Class of 1969. He proudly served our country, as a Vietnam veteran (Navy). 

David had endless wins with friends and his father racing in the Sandusky Sailing Club on his fathers boat. He was the Owner of Johnson’s Natural Foods in Shaker Heights. He worked at Ground Air Transfer in Willoughby, and then retired after 17 years from the Cleveland Food Bank. He was a passionate fan of the Tribe "Cleveland Indians," and would take a risk with playing the lottery. Many people knew of his  incredible knowledge of all things music, and was known as a human jukebox. He will be missed by all, and remain in everyone's hearts.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date, please check back on our website.

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Christina LoPresti Christina LoPresti

Diane Yeager

Sheviejean Diane (Campbell) Yeager  age 76, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on November 17, 2024. Diane was preceded in death by her husbands Earl Yeager, Tim Nolan, her mother Virginia Elizabeth Shortt (Chino), father Benjamin Charles Campbell, and brother Charles Gary Campbell.

Loving mother of Jerry (Holly), Robert, Elizabeth (Mark).  She is also survived by Gerald Hillier, her former husband and Father of her children. Beloved grandmother of nine, and great-grandmother of 9. Cherished sister of Penelope and aunty of John.

Her life was characterized by her selfless giving. Her home was a resting place for many in need.  She also loved art, movies (thrillers), and cooking.  Desserts were her specialty. She will be dearly missed, and will forever be in everyone’s hearts.

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Christina LoPresti Christina LoPresti

Bruce Gedeon

In Loving Memory of Bruce Gedeon who passed away surrounded by his family on November 18, 2024, and is now in heaven with his son Jeremy Gedeon. Beloved son of Helen. Loving & devoted husband of Pamela Gedeon. Devoted father of Donnie Moore, and Jennifer Gedeon. Cherished grandfather of Jackson Moore and Bo Vision Jr. Bruce loved fishing and being on his boat, and spending time with his family.

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Christina LoPresti Christina LoPresti

Thomas Weybrecht

Thomas Robert Weybrecht age 81, passed away on November 17, 2024. Devoted father of Kim Gillis (husband Michael Gillis), and Dawn Bizjak (husband DJ Bizjak), and the late Doug Weybrecht. Cherished grandfather of Taylor Smith, Summer Evans and Caiden Mumford. Loving brother of Kathy Hyland (Patrick), and Alan Weber (Sally). He was a huge lover of sports especially the NY Yankee's, Dallas Cowboys and The Ohio State Buckeye's. He also enjoyed vacationing to Las Vegas, NV. Over his lifetime he had 50 pairs of khaki shorts . Thomas enjoyed walking for miles and beautiful women's smiles, inappropriate mischievous jokes, loved gossiping on the phone for hours about everything under the sun with those he loved, and most of all his dog Charlie.

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Christina LoPresti Christina LoPresti

Dennis T. Boncha

Dennis T. Boncha age 76, formerly of Gates Mills, now residing in Painesville, passed away peacefully on November 17, 2024. Beloved husband of 43 years to Brandy (nee Pocza). Loving father of Julie, Karyne, and Lisa. Cherished grandfather of Kiah, Kane, Caylee, and Cruz. Great-grandfather of Milo, Nyko, and Otto. His love of reading brought him to Perry Library each week, always with a book in his hand. His love of nature took him, and his granddaughter Kiah on many hikes, looking for salamanders. Dennis also enjoyed taking Caylee and his dog Tucker to the dog park. Caylee will be forever grateful for her Papa, giving her his BMW, and his son-in-law Dylan his Honda motorcycle. Our family has many cherished memories of years of vacationing on Lake Champlain in Vermont. As a special thanks to Dennis’s best friend, Gary “Ratz” we would like to take this opportunity to thank him for his time and compassion of taking care of Brandy, and assisting her with taking Dennis to the VA, and being there for them. Dennis was a kind, loving, honest, and a great man, who was devoted to his family. He will be dearly missed, but will forever remain in everyone’s heart. If you would like to send a condolence card please forward to Blessing Cremation Center for Brandy.

A Celebration of life will be held at a later date.

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Christina LoPresti Christina LoPresti

 Darwin Lee Pochodzay   

“A faithful man”

Darwin was born in Leona Mines Virginia to Peter and Anna (Gerula) Pochodzay. He was the youngest of the family. He married Barbara Barnett on July 28, 1954 and moved to Lake County Ohio in 1955. They were married 64years before her passing in 2019. Darwin worked at Hillwood manufacturing for over 40 years retiring in the year 2000.  He was a member of The International Association of Machinist and Aerospace workers. 

Darwin passed at the age of 90, peacefully at home three weeks after suffering a stroke on November 17, 2024.

He is survived by his children. Linda (Randy) Edwards, Sandra (John) Rein Dale (Genny) Pochodzay, Dennis Pochodzay and fiancé Shallyn Leland, Tim (Tammy) Pochodzay, 13 grandchildren, 17 great grandchildren and numerous extended family.members

Darwin was a faithful member of Central Assembly Church for over 60 years.

A Memorial Service, Officiated by Pastor Charles Pahlman, will take place on Saturday, November 30 at 11 AM at Central Assembly Church, 6958 Hopkins Rd. Mentor, OH 44060

Donations can be made to Central Assembly Church or Hospice of the Western Reserve.



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Christina LoPresti Christina LoPresti

Russell L. Miller

Russell L. Miller

November 14, 2024 

In Loving Memory

There is going to be a meeting in the air
In the sweet, sweet bye and bye
I am going to meet you, meet you over there
In that home beyond the sky
Such singing you will hear never heard by mortal ear'
Twill be glorious, I do declare
And God's own son will be the leading one
At the meeting in the air.

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Christina LoPresti Christina LoPresti

Janice Pettine

Janice Pettine (nee Ramaciatti), 89 of Mayfield Hts, passed away on November 09, 2024.  She retired from the Federal government after 30 years.

sister of  Dolores Lanese (deceased) (John deceased) Marilyn Martines (Jim deceased) Lynette Perconti (Sam deceased)

Loving Aunt, great aunt and great great aunt to many.  

Janice was an avid walker and enjoyed shopping. Janice enjoyed "doing lunches" with her sisters, spending time with her nieces and nephews, visiting and having coffee with her family.  She loved celebrating all the holidays, and always made the best Easter Baskets for her nieces. Janice loved the Cleveland sports teams.

A Memorial Mass will be held Saturday November 30, 2024 10:00A.M. at St. Francis of Assisi Church, 6850 Mayfield Road, Gates Mills, OH 44040.

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Christina LoPresti Christina LoPresti

James W. Sackett Jr.

James W Sackett Jr., born March 26th 1960, in Mentor, OH died peacefully at home surrounded by family at the age of 64 on November 8th, 2024. He was a beloved husband, father, brother, uncle, and friend. Jim lived a life rich in accomplishments, adventures, and love, leaving a lasting impression on those who knew him.

Jim was a gifted and driven individual. He earned his bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering from Ohio University before furthering his education with a Master's Degree in Finance from the University of Houston. His academic and professional journey led him to a distinguished career which began at NASA in Houston, TX designing refrigeration systems for the space shuttle program. He then moved to Fort Myers, FL to join the family boat building business as chief financial officer. Following that, he and his wife, Becky, moved to Moscow, Russia with NASA, where he worked to deliver a space module to the MIR space station. While there, he also worked for Lockheed Martin and was instrumental in establishing the USA's program to acquire rocket boost technology for the Atlas III space program. He took immense pride in his contributions to space exploration. Jim and Becky's time overseas provided them multiple opportunities to travel the world and enjoy many adventures together.

An entrepreneur at heart, Jim was always seeking new challenges and opportunities. After 10 years living abroad, Jim and his family settled back to his home town of Mentor, OH where he started his own materials import business. Jim was a skilled handyman always ready to lend a hand and fix anything that needed fixing.

Jim grew up sailing at Mentor Harbor Yachting Club and was an avid racer, known for his competitive spirit and unwavering determination on the water. Jim's love of sailing took him across the Atlantic Ocean and cemented him as a fixture in the local racing community.

Above all, Jim was a devoted family man. He was a loving husband to Becky Sackett, an inspiring father to Taylor Jane Sackett, and a dedicated brother to Karen Sackett Rampe (Richard Spine) and Steve Sackett (Cynda), Step Brother to Cindy Hamilton (Paul Stanard), Connie Sackett (Tod) and John Sackett. Uncle to Corinne Sackett, Brad Sackett, John Sackett Rampe and Stepson to Carole Sackett. Jim was preceded in death by his mother Barbara Major and father James Walter Sackett Sr.

Jim will be remembered for his brilliant mind, competitive spirit, and the warmth and generosity he showed to those he loved. Celebration of Life will be held at Mentor Harbor Yachting Club on November 23rd, 2024 from the hours of 2:00pm to 6:00pm. In lieu of flowers please consider donating to the Mentor Harbor Youth Sailing association (mhysaweb.org).

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Christina LoPresti Christina LoPresti

Stanley Kodrin

Stanley Kodrin age 69, of Euclid passed away on October 31, 2024 surrounded by his brother Sylvester “Sly.”  Stanley was the loving son of the late Stanislav and Karoline “Dragica” (nee Izak) Kodrin. The Kodrin family grew up in the St. Clair Avenue neighborhood off East 73rd Street (north of St. Clair Avenue).

Stan was an alum of St. Vitus Elementary School, Slovenska sola pri sv. Vidu, and Benedictine High School. He was employed at USPS until his retirement. One of his greatest joys each year was to be an active participant and singer in the St. Vitus Christmas choir, performing at the annual “Concert of Sacred Songs,” in St. Vitus Church. He had a kind word for all, and an infectious smile. He was a gentle soul to all, and he will forever remain in all of our hearts. Stan was preceded in death by his wife Joanne. He is survived by a number of nephews, great nephews, and great nieces as well as his faithful brother Sly. May Stanley rest in peace.

A Memorial Service for Stanley will be held on Sunday November 17, 2024 AT Pilgrim Lutheran Brethren Church, 9514 Johnnycake Ridge Road, Mentor, OH 44060., where the family will receive friends from 1:00PM until the time of service at 2:00P.M.  A dinner will be held immediately at the church beginning at 3:00PM

 Donations may be made in Stanley’s names to Hospice of the Western Reserve, 17876 St Clair Ave., Cleveland, OH 44110 or Globaladvanceprojects.org.

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