OBITUARIES

A Remembrance of Loved Ones

Christina LoPresti Christina LoPresti

Bruce Graham

Bruce Graham age 87, of Shaker Heights, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on May 1, 2025. Beloved husband of Carol (nee Algeri). Loving father of Amanda Nowak (Tom), Garth Graham (Jennifer), and Bonus son David Thayer. Devoted Papa of Samantha & Aidan Scheel, and Nick Graham. Bruce was a legend to his family and friends, and well known by his sense of humor. He lived life on his terms, and those terms were entertaining for all.

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Christina LoPresti Christina LoPresti

Beverly A. Blazer

Beverly A. Blazer age 88, passed away peacefully on April 26, 2025. She resided at Salida Woods in Mentor, and was a devoted member at Grace Church. Bev enjoyed reading and memorizing God's word. She also enjoyed sitting down and talking to friends.

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Anne Zuchowski Anne Zuchowski

Robert J. Armstrong Sr.

Robert J. Armstrong, Sr. (“Bob”) of Chardon, Ohio, formerly of Mentor, Ohio, passed away on April 29, 2025, after a short illness.

Bob was born on March 22, 1942, to William and Marie Armstrong (nee Freund) in Cleveland, Ohio, the fourth and last son of the Armstrong clan. He graduated from Holy Name High School and was an accountant for 41 years in the Greater Cleveland Area.

He was a proud veteran. Bob served 6 years in the Army Reserves. During his service, he was in the movie Goldfinger while stationed at Fort Knox. Bob enjoyed keeping his grass meticulously mowed, traveling, and spending time with his family. Bob also liked to remind his brothers that he was “mom’s baby”, which Bob would routinely use to his advantage to win arguments when he and his brothers were in the presence of their mother, who would play along and agree with him on most occasions. Bob was also a die-hard Cleveland Browns fan which made for a spirited yet jovial rivalry over the years with his son, a die-hard Steelers fan. Bob was always a good neighbor, whether it be lending tools or volunteering to assist in local activities with the homeowner’s association. He also loved to provide advice for free and often to his children, even when they didn’t ask for it! Bob was a beloved son, brother, husband, father, and friend.

Bob was proceeded in death by his parents, his mother-in-law Mary Strancar (nee Cos), his three older brothers Bill, Carl, and Jim, Sister-in-law Mildred Armstrong (nee Shimrak) his nephew Greg Armstrong, and his best man Bob Gray.

Bob is survived by his wife of 60.5 years, Sandy (nee Swift), son, Robert J. Armstrong Jr. wife Michele (nee Catrabone), daughter, Sandy Hart (husband Rob), and grandchildren, Haleigh, Joleigh, and Anjaleigh Hart, and Robert III, Lauren, Lyndsey, Noel, and Connor Armstrong and their mother Bernadette (nee Knapik).

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to Tunnel to Towers Foundation (t2t.org/donate/) in Bob’s memory.

As requested by Bob, there will be no service. A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, May 3, 2025, from 3 to 6 pm at Admiral Charlie’s, 101 River St, Grand River, OH 44045, inside Pickle Bill’s.

Arrangements entrusted to Blessing Cremation Center, 9340 Pinecone Dr, Mentor, OH 44060.

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Anne Zuchowski Anne Zuchowski

Christopher Allen Somerville

Christopher Allen Somerville, known to his friends and family as “Chris” was born on January 5, 1961 in Beaver, Pennsylvania. Chris passed away peacefully on April 25, 2025 at the University Hospitals Seidman Cancer Center in Cleveland, Ohio following a courageous battle with cancer.

Chris grew up in Kirtland, Ohio, where he attended Kirtland High School. Chris worked throughout the majority of his life in the chemical industry. Chris was dedicated to his career and proven by his strong work ethic and friendships gained throughout the years.

Chris is survived by his loving wife Linda of 34 years and three beautiful children, whom he loved dearly. Jeremy, Tina (deceased) and Angela and son-in-law, Nick, and loving and wonderful grandchildren Scarlet, Kylie and Nicholas and brother’s Mike Somerville and Steve Somerville and Aunts, Uncles and many cousins. A devoted husband and father anyone could have. Chris was preceded by death by his parents, Sandra (Clear) and Dan Somerville, sister, Kim O’Donnell.

Chris had a deep love for sports, especially football being his greatest passion. A lifelong Cleveland Browns fan, he often joked about waiting for the day they’d make it to the Super Bowl! Chris was also an avid “NASCAR” enthusiast, starting each season attending the Daytona 500. And finally deer hunting. Chris cherished the peaceful moments he in spent in the woods, although seldom coming home with a deer.

Chris’s kindness, generosity and sense of humor touched everyone who he came in contact with. His family and friends will always remember him as a man who was ready to enjoy life and someone you could talk to for hours while having a beer or two.

Per Chris’s wishes, there will be no memorial service.

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Christina LoPresti Christina LoPresti

Gayle Ann Husted

Gayle Ann Husted, 82 of Avon Lake, Ohio, passed away April 26, 2025. Gayle was born March 12, 1943, and is survived by her brother William Husted (June), nephews Robert (Robin) and Mark (Susan) Husted, and niece Maribeth Sustar.

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Christina LoPresti Christina LoPresti

Terry Palermo

Terry Palermo, age 74, entered into eternal rest on April 26, 2025 after a very short illness.

Terry is survived by his wife of 34 years, Patricia.   He leaves behind two daughters – Daina Rosen (Jeff) and Jill Bascom (Hugh) and four grandchildren.  Terry was the oldest of four children (Roy, Cathy, Michelle) and was preceded in death by his parents, Jim and Rose Palermo.   Close family members also include Stephen and Janice Stanisa, Carolyn Stanisa and Mark Bandish as well as his niece Jennifer (Marcus), nephews Matt (Liz), Patrick, a great-nephew and niece.

After a 40-year career in the electronics/computer industry where he served in various roles Terry purchased a business (manufacturer of storage and organization products) which he owned for 16 years prior to his retirement in 2019.

It was really upon retirement that Terry found true enjoyment in life due to the organizations he volunteered for.  He was in the Geauga West Rotary Club for 15 years that included several years in a leadership role (President and Board Member.)  He was a CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) which is a program of the Geauga County Juvenile Court.  CASAs advocate for the best interests of children who are the victims of parental abuse/neglect/dependency.  He was assigned to several families over the last five years and touched the lives of the children in those families. Terry volunteered for Next Step which is a program focusing on empowering victimized youths.  He was a generous and dedicated member of the Advisory Board and cared deeply for the kids they serve.  He was there to lend support, deliver snacks, purchase clothing and most importantly make huge trays of delicious homemade pasta with meatballs. He was a very active member of his church, St. John of the Cross in Euclid, where he served on the finance committee.  In late 2023 he and his wife were asked to manage the St. John of the Cross Food Pantry which is under the umbrella of the Good Shepherd Family Center.  This Food Pantry went from start-up in March 2024 to fully operational today serving 300 people a month.  These volunteer positions were the love of his life, and he put countless hours a week into fulfilling the commitments of these roles.

Terry had an infectious smile and great sense of humor.  He had a unique ability to bring laughter into any setting.  Terry was graciously generous with others and always put himself last.  He was a friend, supporter and mentor to countless people.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, May 2, at St. John of the Cross, 140 Richmond Road, Euclid, OH at 12:30 p.m.  Friends and family will be received from 11:00 to 12:30 in the gathering space in the church.  In lieu of flowers donations to the St. John of the Cross Food Pantry would be appreciated.

 

 

 

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Christina LoPresti Christina LoPresti

Sheila M. Walden

Sheila M. Augustine Walden, age 70, passed away on April 25, 2025, in Willoughby, Ohio.

Sheila, the beloved wife of David C. Walden Sr., was born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio. Known for her resilience, kindness, and unwavering love for her family, Sheila's life was a true testament to the strength of her spirit and the warmth of her heart.

She leaves behind her son, David K. Walden Jr., and her daughter, Tammy M. Congleton. She was a proud grandmother to Mikayla Walden, grandson-in-law Jacob Harmon, Rebecca Cvelbar, Brianna Walden, and Joshua Walden.

Sheila, the second oldest of her siblings, is also survived by David Boyd, Larry Augustine, Joe Boyd, and Michael Boyd.

Preceding her in death were her mother, Joann Augustine; her brother, James Augustine; and her sister, Twila Boyd.

Sheila leaves behind many nieces and nephews, all of whom she loved dearly and shared her compassion and warmth with throughout her life.

Friends and family will miss her greatly.

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Christina LoPresti Christina LoPresti

Ronald Benjamin Martinelli

Ronald B. Martinelli passed away peacefully at his home in Aurora, OH on April 23rd, 2025, at the age of 63. Preceded in death by his mother Bonnie Martinelli, Ron is survived by his father Benjamin Martinelli, his father’s life partner Lana Gates, brother Brian Martinelli, sister-in-law Julie, son Nicholas Martinelli, daughter-in-law Maria, daughter Rachel Martinelli, and grandchildren Karen, Kristen, and Dominic. Ron was a 1979 graduate and class Valedictorian of Belle Vernon High School, as well as a graduate of Bucknell University. A natural athlete, he played on various high school and collegiate sports teams and also enjoyed skiing and golf. He loved spending time with his family, listening to music, watching movies, and following the Pittsburgh Steelers. Ron was also a member of the Lord of Life Lutheran Church where he sang in the men’s choir. His kindness, good humor, and friendship will be remembered by everyone who knew and loved him. He was a fighter to the very end, courageously battling Multiple Sclerosis for over two decades with strength and dignity. The family will have a memorial ceremony at the Lord of Life Lutheran Church in Bainbridge, OH on June 7th: Receiving 10:00-11:00 AM, Service at 11:00 AM. Ron will be interned at the West Newton Cemetery on June 28th. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Lord of Life Lutheran Church in Bainbridge, OH.

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Christina LoPresti Christina LoPresti

Janet I. Huntington

Janet Irene Huntington, age 92, passed away peacefully on April 23, 2025 surrounded by loved ones.  She was the loving wife of the late Milford “Jake” for 66 years, and a devoted mother to Dale A. (Sandra), David M. (Benita), and Kathleen S. Kaczmarek (Frank).  Janet was also a cherished grandmother to 8, and Great-grandmother (Gigi) to 22.  Loving aunt to many nieces and nephews, 

Janet was a long-time resident of Mentor and Leroy Township. She spent much of her career as a school bus driver for the Mentor Public Schools, where she formed many long-time cherished friendships with her fellow bus drivers.   

In her lifetime, Janet spent countless hours teaching and participating in synchronized swimming, advocating for the Bus Drivers Union, and participating in the Senior Olympics. She also enjoyed traveling the country, camping, boating, water skiing, fishing, gardening, and playing cards and games.  

Janet was also a very talented artist and found pleasure in sharing her talents with others. From baking and cake decorating, crocheting and knitting, to the many pictures that she painted, to carving over 100 Santas from wood.  She has left many pieces to be enjoyed and cherished by her loved ones. 

Her greatest joy was her time spent with family, both immediate and extended as well as her many friends.  Her faith was also very important to Janet, she was a member of Body of Christ Community Church in Willoughby, OH.  

The family is extremely grateful to the many caregivers at Danbury Senior Living and Hospice of the Western Reserve who were there for Janet during her final days. 

A graveside ceremony will be held on Friday, May 9, at 11:30am at Western Reserve Memorial Gardens.  In lieu of flowers contributions are suggested to Hospice of the Western Reserve, 17876 St Clair Ave, Cleveland OH 44110 

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Anne Zuchowski Anne Zuchowski

Carl J. Myers

Carl J. Myers, 95, of Mentor passed away at his home on April 20,2025. He is survived by his wife Dianne of 49 years; son, Carl L., grandson Chad, granddaughter, Jennifer Bellanger (Julien), and 3 great grandchildren, Alexandra, Lucas, and Leonardo; sister, Susan Doolittle (Tad deceased), and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his mother, Mildred , father, Carl H., and sister, Charlene (Ron).

Carl was a member of the Mentor Yachting Club, Rotary Club of Mentor and formerly President of the Rotary Club in Seneca Falls, NY, where he was employed by Seneca Falls Machine. Born in Painesville, Ohio, but grew up in Lima, Ohio, where he attended Lima High School, worked at Excelo before joining the Air Force for 5 years. He also worked at Hodson Machinery and Warner Swasey.

Carl loved nature and animals, enjoyed fishing, boating, golfing, woodworking, RC airplanes, antique boat, car, and toy restoration, and playing his guitar. He always had a joke to fit the occasion and loved to be with friends and family.

A memorial service will be announced at a later date.

Donations may be made to Hospice of the Western Reserve, 17876 St. Clair Ave., Cleveland, Ohio 44110.

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Christina LoPresti Christina LoPresti

Carole D. Dunlap

Carole D. Dunlap of Mentor Ohio passed at Western Reserve Hospice after a brief illness. Carole was born in Niagra Falls New York on October 8, 1941 to Virginia and George Greasser and is survived by her husband of 42 years,David B. Dunlap.Carole is also survived by her children,Rebecca (Laurence) Lanese, Patricia (Warren )Comstock, Virginia Knapp (Steve) Doyle, Grandchildren, Tim (Ben) Bacon,Nick (Andrea) Lanese Michelle Lanese (Dan) Nista, Caden Doyle,Kaylee Doyle,and great grandchildren Cameran Lanese and Bella Nista. Carole will be remembered for her smile, singing, dancing, and  the love she had for her family.Carole had requested that are no calling hours and that she will be interned at Mentor Cemetery with a short family service.A celebration of life will be held for Carole at a later date.In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made to Hospice of the Western Reserve 17876 St Clair Ave.Cleveland, Ohio 44110 .

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Christina LoPresti Christina LoPresti

Ronald Joseph Przybylski

Ronald Joseph Przybylski Born: January 5, 1936 Died: April 19, 2025 Residence: Pepper Pike, Ohio

Ronald was a man of intellect, dedication, and profound impact. He pursued his academic interests with rigor, graduating from the University of Chicago with a PhD degree in Zoology. His passion for knowledge and mentorship shone brightly through his distinguished career at Case Western Reserve University, where he dedicated over 50 years to teaching medical school students, shaping the minds of future healthcare professionals. Affectionately known as "Dr. P" by his students due to the length and pronunciation challenges of his last name, he left an indelible mark on countless aspiring doctors. His scholarly contributions were significant, marked by the publication of many scientific papers that advanced his field. Upon his retirement, he was honored with the title of Emeritus Professor.

Beyond his professional achievements, Ronald was known for his big heart and unwavering eagerness to help others. He approached life with honesty and great integrity, earning the respect and affection of all who knew him. In his leisure time, Ronald found joy and freedom in sailing, cultivated beauty in his gardening, and broadened his horizons through travel.

Family:

  • Wife: Ning Tsu Kuo

  • Former wives: Barbara Bolek and Sandy Davidheiser

  • Daughters: Michelle Bonat  and Jeannie Lewis

  • Son: David Von Wolf

  • Grandsons: John (Jack) Hebb, Chase Hebb

  • Parents: Joseph Przybylski (deceased), Angeline Jurkowski (deceased)

  • Siblings:

    • Noreen (deceased)

    • Sandy (deceased)

    • Sharon (deceased)

    • Terry Przybylski (living)

    • Marcia Collins (living)

In accordance with Ronald's wishes, there will be no formal funeral service.

The family suggests that those who wish to honor Ronald's memory may do so by making a donation to the Cleveland Botanical Garden,11030 East Blvd, Cleveland, OH 44106or through their website at: https://holdenfg.org/

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Christina LoPresti Christina LoPresti

Louis “Louie” J. Petelin

Louis J. Petelin
August 3, 1951 – April 17, 2025

Louis “Louie” J. Petelin, beloved father, grandfather, and cherished member of the Slovenian-American community, passed away peacefully on April 17, 2025, at the age of 73, surrounded by the love and care of his family.

Born on August 3, 1951, in Aberdeen, Washington, Louie spent most of his formative years in Cleveland, Ohio. He attended St. Vitus School and graduated from St. Joseph High School. A proud and active member of the St. Vitus Parish, Louie’s vibrant spirit and deep-rooted Slovenian heritage were cornerstones of his life.

In his younger years, Louie was a skilled gymnast and a dedicated lifeguard at the Slovenska Pristava. He went on to become a highly respected tool and die maker, known for his precision, craftsmanship. His dedication to his trade was matched only by his love for music.

As a talented drummer, he played with well-known Slovenian bands, including Vandrovci and the Alpine Sextet, bringing rhythm, joy, and connection to countless celebrations and gatherings.

Known as the “salty old man” and for his steady beat—both on the drums—Louie leaves behind a legacy of music, craftsmanship, and love. He was the proud father (Ati) of three daughters: Tanya (Pete) Loncar, Tina Petelin, and Teja (Rick) Novak, and a devoted grandfather to eight adoring grandchildren.

Louie’s memory will live on in the laughter of his grandchildren, the music of a Slovenian polka, and the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

A private service will be held Saturday, April 26, 2025 at 11:00am at St. Vitus Church. 6019 Lausche Ave. Cleveland, Ohio 44103. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to be made in Louie’s memory to St. Vitus Church.


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Anne Zuchowski Anne Zuchowski

Raymond Newyear

Raymond Willis Newyear, age 91, passed away peacefully surrounded by family at home on April 1, 2025 after a short illness. He was born March 16, 1934 to the late William and Vera Newyear.

Ray lived almost his entire life in Willoughby. He graduated from Willoughby Union High School and Bowling Green State University where he was a member of Phi Kappa Psi fraternity. He then served in the US Army at the Maryland Chemical Center.  After earning an Honorable Discharge he worked in quality control management at Lubrizol, IRC Fibers, and Horizons Metalphoto where he obtained several patents involving laser photochemistry before retiring in 1999.

Ray enjoyed road trip camping vacations with his family nearly every year and traveled internationally after retirement.  He was active in Boy Scout troop 185 with his Eagle Scout sons. His hobbies included photography, wood carving, yardwork, reading, watching wildlife in his back yard, and he was a proficient amateur musician. He will be remembered for keeping his work areas organized (and labeled!).  He was also an avid Browns fan from their founding including the championship years.  In his youth he assisted his father build several houses in his neighborhood as well as several additions on his own home.

Ray is survived by wife of nearly 59 years Patricia, sons Karl (Isabel) and Doug (Meghan), niece Joann (Rue) and nephew Bill (Kay), and will be missed by his cat Turk. He is predeceased by his brother Ed (Pat).

The family will host visiting hours from 2:00 to 4:00 PM on Friday April 25, 2025 followed by a Memorial Service at Grace Episcopal Church, 36200 Ridge Road, Willoughby. 

Donations may be made in Ray’s memory to the Grace Episcopal Church Elevator fund.

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Anne Zuchowski Anne Zuchowski

Tara DeGreen

With heavy hearts and many tears, we are sad to announce our daughter, Tara DeGreen, passed away on April 14, 2025. Tara was born on June 10, 1986. Because of the Rett Syndrome she was born with she faced many challenges in her life. She rose to them all with courage and a smile. Tara had this wonderful ability to steal a piece of your heart with her joyful spirit and pure love.

She was fortunate in her adult life to attend A Better Choice Day Hab. Which provided her with friends, many outings, and activities. She loved her time there.

Tara also loved listening to music, taking rides in her van, getting “beautified”, going to church, her prayer time, Marvel action movies, and her dads spaghetti.

She is survived by her father Marvin, mother Valerie, and her brother Gregory.

Tara’s life was a blessing to those around her. Every day that she is not here, will seem like an eternity. But, as much as she was loved by us here… HE loved her more and called her home. Do you think God has favorites?

A Celebration of her Life will be held on Tuesday, April 22, 2025 at Grandview 13404 Old State Rd. Middlefield, OH 44062. Family will visit with friends and share some of Tara’s favorite foods from 4-6:30 p.m. Service will start at 6:30 p.m.

In lieu of flowers please make donations to Grandview /A Better Choice Day Hab 13404 Old State Rd. Middlefield, OH 44062.

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