Robin Sawastuk

Robin Sawastuk (McDivitt) 71 of Garrettsville passed away on July 11, 2025.

Robin was a loving mother, devoted partner, and cherished grandmother. She was preceded in death by her father Harold McDivitt, mother Ruth Stone (Sarr), and siblings Janet McDivitt and Bob McDivitt.

She is survived by her “other half” Larry Lester, her children Bill Sawastuk and Stacy Sawastuk, eight grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews who adored her.

Robin had a deep love for the outdoors. She found joy in walking through nature, camping under the stars, and playing frisbee with her dog Candy. She also enjoyed crafting- especially making bookmarks, garage sales, baking, and treasured every moment spent with her family.

Throughout her career Robin worked in quality control at Crowley Company of Middlefield and Superior Quality of Garrettsville. Robin will be remembered for her quiet strength, gentle heart, and the love she poured into the people and things that mattered most to her.

Frederick “Butter” Earl Sanders Jr.

Frederick Earl Sanders Jr

07/27/1948 - 07/10/2025

Frederick (Butter) Earl Sanders Jr., passed away peacefully July 10, 2025 in Willoughby OH at the young age of 76. 

He now joins his loving wife of 56 years, Sheila (Hughes) Sanders, who he has missed immensely since her passing in August 2024. 

He was a loving husband, father, brother, grandfather, great grandfather, and uncle to many.

Fred loved spending time with his kids, grandkids, and great grandkids. He enjoyed watching the Browns; win or lose. His favorite place to be was his cabin in PA with all the family around. 

He leaves behind his children June Hammond, Bryan (Melissa) Sanders , Tammy (Breslin)  Giboney, Mike Sanders, Chris Hammond, Joe Hammond(Deceased), Amanda Hammond, and Nick Hammond.

He also leaves behind his 17 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren; he loved each and every one of them very much!

Services will be held on Saturday July 19th, 2025 and will begin at 1pm at his gravesite located in Perry Cemetery: 3840 MiddleRidge Rd, Perry, OH 44081. 

Join us after the service for a celebration of Fred’s life at: BAR 23 922 E. 222 St Euclid, Ohio 44124

“Your life was a blessing, your memory a treasure." 

“Rest in Peace”                

Kenneth Allan Hess

Kenneth Allan Hess
March 5, 1955 – June 25, 2025

Kenneth Allan Hess, 70, of Fairport Harbor, Ohio, passed away peacefully on June 25, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born March 5, 1955, in Wilkinsburg, Pennsylvania, Kenn was the son of Rachel Ruth Rorabaugh Hess and George Alfred Hess.

Kenn had a passion for coffee, fast cars, rock music, and sound gear. He enjoyed collecting knives and treasured spending time with friends who shared his interests. He had a special love for Atlanta, Georgia, where he spent one of the best chapters of his life. He often talked about retiring there, holding the city close to his heart.

Kenn made friends wherever he went and was always ready with a genuine conversation, a helping hand, or honest words when needed. His straightforwardness and heartfelt love made him unforgettable.

He is survived by his daughter, Amanda Beres, and her husband, Brandon; his two beloved grandchildren, Kenneth and Akira, who brought him immense pride and joy; his sister, Sandra Hess Hudson, and her husband, Scott; as well as several nieces and nephews. He shared a special, lifelong bond with Ryan Bollens, whom he loved as a son.

Kenn was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Charles and Richard Hess; and sister Beverly Sullivan.

He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege to know him.

Burt Adolph Bundgus

Burt Adolph Bundgus

Burt Adolph Bundgus, 79, passed away on June 26, 2025, in Cleveland, Ohio.

Born in Hillside, New Jersey, Burt was the son of the late Leo Bundgus and Eleanor Voelker. He was also preceded in death by his brother, Roger Bundgus (Roberta).

Burt proudly served in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War as a decorated seaman. After his military service, he earned a degree in Business from California State University and went on to work for the State of California.

In 1991, Burt moved to Cleveland, Ohio, where they purchased The Emerald Health Network. Burt served as President and Chief Executive Officer for many years. Following the sale of EHN, Burt retired to California enjoying the sunshine and good red wine. In 2012, Burt and Nancy returned to Cleveland, Ohio to be near family. 

Burt was a devoted husband to Nancy Bundgus (DeCredico), a loving father to Kimberly Fallaw (Timothy) and Parish Bundgus, and a proud grandfather to Morgan Bundgus, Chloe Price, Maizy Price, and Stella Price, as well as great-granddaughter Zae Price.

He was also a loving stepfather to Katie Seifried (Mark), Amy Bach (Christopher), and Samantha McWeeney (James), and a devoted “Doggie Dad” to Lilly. His step-grandchildren include Thomas Seifried, Andrew Seifried, Vivian Seifried, Amelia Bach, James McWeeney, Benjamin McWeeney, and George McWeeney.

Burt was also a loving brother-in-law to James DeCredico (Jill), Barb Alvord (Robert), Jean Aschenbrener (James), Linda DeCredico (George Aruda), and the late Albert DeCredico.

Burt was known to many as “The Big Guy.” Though tall in stature, he was truly a teddy bear at heart. Kind, generous, and endlessly warm, Burt formed deep and lasting friendships with Pam LaGrange, George Lopez, Freddie Baers and Alex Callandral, among many others. He loved people deeply and will be missed by all who knew him.

A private celebration of Burt’s life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in Burt’s memory to: David Simpson Hospice House of the Western Reserve, 17876 St Clair Ave., Cleveland, OH 44110.

Renee Lynn Cline

Renee Lynn Cline

1956-2025

Renee Lynn Cline (Tummino), age 69, of Painesville Township, Ohio, passed away on June 28, 2025.  Born on Memorial Day, May 30, 1956 in Cleveland, Ohio to Robert and Arleen Tummino, Renee was a devoted daughter, sister, aunt, great aunt and friend.

Renee grew up in Maple Heights, Ohio and graduated from Willoughby South High School. She had many fond memories with her faithful childhood friend, Debbie Fetzer Galinovsky.  Renee loved sales and ended her 27 year career as Director of Sales for Bonnie Speed Logistics, Cleveland, Ohio in 2020.

Renee is survived by her sister and brother-in-law, Devanie and Dan Fergus of Fort Worth; nephew, Ryan (wife Alex) of Dallas; three nieces, Jessica Humphrey, Ashley Kilbane and Brooke Tummino; and six great nephews and nieces, including Jane and Ben Fergus.

Affectionately nicknamed “Aunt Nay”, she loved being an aunt as much as they loved having her as one.  She is preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Arleen Tummino, and brother, Grant Tummino.

Renee was a passionate animal lover, so in lieu of flowers donations may me made to the Lake County Humane Society.

Jason Glenn Marsh

On July 1st,  2025 in Painesville, Ohio, Jason Glenn Marsh passed away. Jason was born in Painesville, Ohio to Glenn Marsh and Sheila Waltz (Puderbaugh).  He graduated from Harvey High School in 1994. After graduating Jason spent his time between Ohio and Arizona for most of his life. He settled in Ohio in 2016 to be closer to his mother, stepfather and brother.  He graduated from Harvey High School in 1994 and went into construction where he became Foreman for Loomis Construction. 

Jason is survived by his daughters, Melodi Marsh (Dylan Prpic) and Sophie Gamble. By his mother, Sheila waltz (Puderbaugh), Stepfather Dennas Waltz. By his brother Ernie Snyder. His Uncle Nelson Renoylds (Angie). His wife Denise Marsh (Miller). And Stepchildren: Dakota (Cody) Miller, Kaila Miller, Alyssa Swartz and Alexandra (Alex) Swartz. Grandchildren, Cousins, Nieces and Nephews. Along with friends that stood as family. 

Jason father Glenn Marsh, Aunt Janet Denny and Grandmother Estella Turcott and Uncle Larry Puderbaugh preceded him death.

Jason loved to be with family and friends. He liked large fires, good food and just hanging out. Jason learned his skills in construction from his late father, Glenn Marsh and his Stepfather Dennas Waltzs. He loved his mommas cooking and spent as much time with her as he could. He liked to travel. He has been to Niagara Falls, Gatlinburg Tennessee and his favorite Mammoth cave in Kentucky.

When he was spending time with his mother they would talk about fun memories of the past. The first time he went to Arizona. How he got locked out of the house barefoot and no water. When they went rafting on the river. How anything that could go wrong did. His cat Spunk and how big he was. And how protective of Jason he was. 

Jason loved animals, dog especially. He had 2 dogs. Bella, a pit mix. Loving and caring. And then he had Poseidon. His dream dog. A Cane Corso. 

A celebration of life is being planned for a later date by the family.

Gwendolyn Huszar

Gwendolyn J. (Davis) Huszar, age 90, passed away Friday morning June 27, 2025 at home. She was born March 19, 1935 in Bedford, Pennsylvania.

She grew up in Painesville, Ohio graduating from Harvey High School, and then working for TRW. She married Ronald S. Huszar in 1954 and they had a son Ronald P. Huszar. They lived in Fairport Harbor, and were very involved with the Fairport Volunteer Fire Department, the Mardi Gras, and the Hungarian Reform Church.

They moved to Fort Lauderdale, Florida in 1977 where they enjoyed boating, and fishing. Gwen worked for what eventually became Bank of America, until her retirement. She was very involved with American Eskimo Dog Rescue, which they adopted several. She was also active in the Dog Obedience Club of Hollywood.

She was preceded in death by her husband Ron at the age of 50. After her son passed away in 2020, Gwen moved back to Lake County, Ohio. She was also preceded in death by her parents: Raymond J. Davis, and Bronwen E. Davis, and her three brothers; Owen Richard Davis, Raymond Paul Davis, and Donald Philip Davis.

She is survived by her sister Carol Dubeansky, and sister-in-law Linda Davis as well as many nieces and nephews; great nieces and great nephews.

Funeral Services will be at Zion Lutheran Church, 508 Mentor Avenue, Painesville, OH 44077 on Wednesday August 6, 2025 at 11:00AM with a luncheon to follow.

Burial will be at Riverside Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in memory of Gwendolyn Huszar to Zion Lutheran Church, Attention: Jenny Davis Funds, 508 Mentor Avenue, Painesville, OH 44077.

Scott Phillips

In Loving Memory of Scott Phillips

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Scott Phillips, who departed this life on June 23, 2025, at the age of 59.

Scott was preceded in death by his mother, Sandra Phillips. He is survived by his father, Arthur Phillips, and stepmother, Judith Phillips; his son, Andrew Phillips, and daughter-in-law, Kayla Phillips; his beloved granddaughter, Mariah; and his brothers, Michael Phillips (Sherry Anglesino) and Christopher Phillips.

Scott was known for his warm spirit, quick wit, and generous heart. A lifelong fan of sports, he especially loved cheering for his favorite teams—Cleveland sports and the Dallas Cowboys. He also enjoyed video games, often using them as a way to relax and connect with family and friends.

Among those he held dearest were his best friends, Anthony Strnad and Mark Halloway, who were more like brothers than friends. Their lifelong bond and treasured memories will never be forgotten.

Scott found his greatest joy in the company of those he loved. His memory will live on in the laughter he inspired, the kindness he showed, and the love he gave so freely.

He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

A private service will be held by the family.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of your choice in Scott’s memory.

Martha Jean Dunn

Martha led a full and active life with her friends, family, and Loki, her husky mix dog. She enjoyed skiing, camping, hiking, biking, and kayaking in natural settings, first in the Hudson River Valley of New York, then Anchorage, Alaska and western Pennsylvania.  

Martha had wide and varied interests. In addition to the above hobbies, she also enjoyed traveling, reading, gardening, cooking, and being a judge at the college level for the National Gymnastics League.  She worked on the New York Times crossword with an ink pen, and gave a sly smile when others suggested a pencil and eraser. She never needed the eraser!

Graduating from Duke in 1977 and SUNY Binghamton with a MS in geology, Martha took a job in Alaska with Arco. She determined the probability of oil in various land tracts in the North Slope.  Arco used this info to determine how much to bid on the tracts when they opened for bidding. She lived in San Diego for a period of time but loved the north so she returned to Anchorage to become an air traffic controller. She socialized with friends for many years, enriching each other’s lives and making memories. 

When her mother required assistance Martha moved to McKean, PA in 2020 with her dog, Loki. She became active in the community and made good friends there, enjoying time at the Erie Symphony along with her athletic outdoor endeavors. She continued her passion as a gymnastic judge, raised bees, had a prolific garden, and in general embraced the rural life. 

Martha is preceded in passing by her father, William R. Dunn (1992), and her mother, Jean Sturtevant Dunn (2024). She is she survived by her brother, Thomas S. and his wife, Leigh Harmon Dunn along with various cousins, nieces, and nephews. 

The family will have a private service and expresses appreciation for all her caregivers who helped her near the end of her life. 

Geraldine “Geri” A. Diemert

Geraldine “Geri” A. Diemert (née DePaul) was born on October 21, 1939 and passed away on June 22, 2025 in South Euclid, Ohio where she shared her life and raised a family with her devoted husband of 65 years, Thomas Diemert.

Geri was a loving mother to the late Kimberli Diemert (Daniel Steinberg), Thomas Diemert Jr. (Pati), and Carolyn Perlman (Jeff). She was a proud and caring grandmother to Margaret Sawyer, the late Elena Steinberg, and Lydia Perlman. Geri deeply loved her family and found great joy in caring for them.

She was the beloved daughter of the late Jerry and Anne DePaul (née DeLambo) and the dear sister of the late Dr. Richard DePaul (the late Mafalda), Mary Jo Najem (the late Dr. Raymond), and Peter DePaul (Mary Kay). Geri was a cherished aunt, cousin, and friend to many.  Her love, generosity, and presence will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Geri took great pride in her work at the Cleveland Police Museum, where she was committed to preserving the history of Cleveland’s law enforcement community.

She especially loved to cook and was happiest when preparing meals for those she loved. She was an avid gardener who found peace and joy in tending to her flowers.

A Funeral Mass will be held on Monday, July 7 at 10:30 a.m. at Sacred Heart of Jesus Church in South Euclid (please meet at the church). The family will receive friends Sunday, July 6 from 2–6 p.m. at the Schulte & Mahon-Murphy Funeral Home, 5252 Mayfield Road, Lyndhurst (between Richmond and Brainard).  

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate contributions in Geri’s memory to the Cleveland Police Museum. https://www.clevelandpolicemuseum.org/donate-now/

She will be remembered with love and gratitude.

Kaye Phyllis Ducasy

Kaye Phyllis Ducasy (nee Gannon) passed away peacefully at her home on 19 June 2025 surrounded by her loving family. She was born on May 14, 1940 to Clifford & Phyllis Gannon in Andover SD. She graduated from Andover High in 1958.

Kaye wore many hats throughout her lifetime. She is an US Army Veteran, worked as a lunch lady for several years at Noble Elementary in Euclid OH, later as a nursing assistant at Heartland of Mentor, and moved to Lake West Hospital where she retired after 20 years of dedicated service. Kaye and her husband Robert helped serve their community after retiring by volunteering with Meals on Wheels for 15 years. She was a member of Covenant Baptist Church In Wickliffe for many years. She loved to go dancing and travel with her husband, spend time with her many dogs over the years, and spend time with her family.

Kaye leaves behind her loving husband of almost 35 years Robert J Ducsay, sisters Carol (Greg) Rutherford and Gail ( Dennise) Huwe of SD, daughters Nancy Arnold of NE, Ree Jean Wood, Deborah (Craig) Murray-Brown, Wendy (Bob) Easter, and Janet Hula; stepchildren Rob Ducsay, Kim (Gary) Goellner, Denise Kern, Mellisa Maloney, 29 grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews. Kaye is preceded in death by her parents Clifford & Phyllis Gannon, stepdaughter Jennifer Lyons, stepmother Nila Gannon.

In lieu of flowers, a donation to The Hospice of Western Reserve, an animal rescue of your choice, or a Veteran Organization would be appreciated. There will be no service at this time. A Celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Patricia B. Korcheck

Patricia B. Korcheck (née Bishop) of Mentor, 78, passed away peacefully on Monday, June 9, 2025, with her two daughters by her side. She was born in Cleveland on July 12, 1946 to Ralph and Margaret Bishop (née Segreto) and graduated from Hoban Dominican High School. She attended St. John College where she earned an education degree in 1967. In 1970, Pat met the love of her life, Pete, at a Halloween party while both were graduate students at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. The story goes that Pete asked her to marry him four days later on his birthday but she said, “not yet.” They were engaged a few months later on Valentine’s Day and said “YES” on April 8, 1972, remaining devoted to one another for 30 years until Pete’s death in 2002.

 Pat began her teaching career in Illinois and also taught in the Cleveland Public Schools. Starting in the 1980s, she taught briefly at Sterling Morton, and later spent many years at Brentmoor Elementary in Mentor. Her students adored her, and even as adults, would lovingly recall their time in her classroom.

 Pat had a reverence for nature and wildlife, especially enjoying time at the Holden Arboretum or in her backyard among the “dear deer” and the birds. She was always up for an adventure and had a childlike curiosity, appreciation, and wonder for the world and every human being she met. She loved to talk to virtually everyone, celebrating successes and providing support on bad days, whether you were the grocery store clerk she’d just met, a plumber in her home doing repairs, her new mailman, or one of her many life-long friends. Pat felt deeply connected to the parish of St. Cecilia’s (Cleveland), where she grew up and was later married, and where she continued to be involved until its closing in 2010. A long-time parishioner of St. Mary of the Assumption in Mentor, her faith was unwavering and she continually sought to enhance her spiritual life through volunteer work, retreats, creative pursuits, prayer, and reading, especially Mary Oliver and Thomas Merton. Although she wasn’t Irish, she unabashedly pretended she was, traveling multiple times to Ireland and always yearning to return.

 Pat was dearly loved and appreciated by friends from the many worlds she was a part of – her church communities, her neighborhood, her teaching, and her volunteer work. But it was her identity as a mother and grandmother (Gramma or “G-Maw”) that filled her with the greatest joy. For over a decade, she proudly and regularly drove out to Iowa to visit her grandson, making the trip alone and in one day.

 Pat was preceded in death by her husband, Mitchell “Pete” Korcheck; parents, Ralph and Margaret Bishop; her brother, Ralph W. Bishop Jr.; and mother-in-law, Antoinette Korcheck. She will be missed forever by her children: Kathy Korcheck Martinek (Jeff) and Marjorie Korcheck (Andrew McKeown) and her beloved grandson, Nikos Martinek. She will also be missed by her granddog, Rosie, and her grandkitty, Peli.

 A memorial mass celebrating Pat’s life will be held Wednesday, July 9, 2025, at 10 am at St. Mary of the Assumption Church, 8560 Mentor Ave., Mentor, OH 44060. Following mass, please join the family for light refreshments and a brief reception. Private interment will take place at Mentor Municipal Cemetery at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to Thea Bowman Center, 11901 Oakfield Ave., Cleveland, OH 44105, donate online at: https://www.theabowmancenter.org/#donate; The Holden Arboretum (Holden Forests & Gardens, P.O. Box 74422, Cleveland, OH 44194-0002), donate online at: https://holdenfg.org/; or Hospice of the Western Reserve, P.O. Box 72101, Cleveland, OH 44192, donate online at www.hospicewr.org.

Charles Douglas Hemphill Jr.

Charles Douglas “Doug” Hemphill Jr, of Painesville, Ohio, passed away peacefully on June 14, 2025, at Burton Health Care, at the age of 85.
Doug was born in Cleveland, Ohio, to the late Charles and Ann (Rand) Hemphill. He graduated from Riverside High School in 1957 and, shortly thereafter, proudly enlisted in the United States Navy, where he served with distinction and worked on the blimps—a unique and memorable chapter of his life.

Following his military service, Doug dedicated many years to his career at A.J. Gates and then Adanac Industries where he worked for over 30 years. He was known for his strong work ethic and unwavering dedication until his retirement. A man of integrity and generosity, Doug was always ready to lend a hand to anyone in need.

He also had a deep love for music—especially the bagpipes. Doug was a member of The Cleveland Kiltie Band and found great joy and meaning in sharing his music with others. His passion left a lasting impression on all who heard him play.

Doug was also a longtime member of the Painesville Church of the Brethren, where his quiet strength and faithful presence were appreciated by many.

Doug was incredibly proud of his family. He was a devoted husband, a loving father, and a cherished “Papa.” His family was his greatest joy and deepest source of pride.

He is survived by his beloved wife of nearly 60 years, Gail (Cole) Hemphill, and his daughter, Patti (Dennis) Oblinger. He was a proud grandfather to Jordan Weeks (Mike), Tyler Kmitt (Brie), Sarah and Emily Oblinger, and a cherished great-grandfather to Jacob and Jillian Fuller, and Alexis and Elizabeth Weeks. He also leaves behind his Sister-in-laws Carol Hemphill and Velma Steingart and many wonderful nieces, nephews and cousins who will fondly remember his kindness, humor, and warmth.

He was preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Amy Kmitt, and his brother, Gerald Hemphill.

Doug will be remembered as a hardworking, kind-hearted man who brought warmth, strength, and love to all who knew him. He will be deeply missed.

A Memorial Service will be held: June 20, 2025 at 1pm at
Painesville Church of the Brethren
10410 Buckeye Rd
Painesville Ohio 44077

The family extends heartfelt thanks to Hospice of the Western Reserve, the staff of Burton Health Care Center, the U.S. Veterans Service, and Blessing Cremation Center for their compassionate care and support.

Thomas F. Jacavino

Thomas F Jacavino (Tom Hardwine) Jacavino

7/31/47- 6/7/25

His last song has been sung. He was a lover of Music, Guitars, Redheads (all the ladies really), his Dogs, Sunsets & Rainbows, Children and Humor. His greatest works of creative carpentry skills were the gifts he made for the people in his life. Treasures like the Stagecoaches, Rabbit, Train, Pickup Truck and Wall of pantry cupboards. You can still listen to one of the songs he wrote... YouTube has "Ohio's Child", being sung by Steve Howell. Another song he has written, "Where'd you hide your heart".

There will be a celebration of his life later on.

He is survived by his sister, Jacklyn Brown, brother in-law Charlie Brown. Nephews, William Coy and Thomas Coy.

Also his good friend for over 25 years, Carolyn M Hoyt, as well as his adopted family who fondly called him "Uncle Tommy". Many, many musical friends and fan members!

Mary Jo Diezic

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Mary Jo Diezic on January 18, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Mary Jo was a vibrant soul who brought light and laughter wherever she went. Her joyful spirit, infectious humor, and ability to turn any moment into a celebration will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

She was the devoted and loving mother of three daughters Alicia, Brooke, and Carlee, who were her pride and joy. Her legacy of love continues through her five cherished grandchildren: Matthew, Camden, Tommy, Amelia, and Kora.

Mary Jo faced life with resilience and warmth, and even in the face of illness, she never lost her spark. Her memory will forever be a reminder to live fully, laugh often, and love deeply. She is so loved and will remain in our hearts always.

Please join us in celebrating her life at the Chagrin Harbor Beach Association on July 19th at 2:00pm.

Steven Chris Craddock

Steven Chris Craddock age 44, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on June 6, 2025. Loving husband of Melissa. Devoted father of Dylan, Aubrey, and Jaxson . Cherished brother to James (Sheila). Uncle of Autumn, Julie and James. Cherished son of  Jeffrey Lillstrung, and the late Ruth Craddock. 

Steven was a man with contagious charisma. He was hard working, and dedicated to his family & all of his friends. Steven enjoyed playing poker, and he was a skilled arborist and Jack of all trades. He will be missed by everyone, and will remain in everyone’s hearts forever.

Here is a poem that should be read in memory of Steven:

You can shed tears that he is gone,
Or you can smile because he lived.
You can close your eyes and pray that he will come back,
Or you can open your eyes and see all he’s left.

Your heart will be empty because you can’t see him,
but will be full of the love you shared with him all these years.
You can turn your back on tomorrow and live yesterday,
Or you can be happy for tomorrow because of yesterday.

You can remember him and only that he’s gone,
Or you can cherish his memory and let it live on.
You can cry and close your mind, be empty and turn your back,
Or you can do what Steven would want:
Smile, open your eyes, love and go on.

Jean M. Brown

Jean M. Brown, 97, passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, June 4, 2025.  She was born August 2, 1927, in Akron, Ohio, to the late Cornelius and Esther Smith.

Jean always had a smile on her face and a story or a joke to share, leaving those around her with laughter in their heart.  She was a past member of the American Legion Auxiliary Post 601 and a member of the Madison Garden Club for over 60 years, during which she held many leadership roles.

Her passion for gardening and community involvement was surpassed only by her love of family, to whom she dedicated her life as a wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother.  She enjoyed traveling and spent time with family members around the country.

Jean will be remembered by her love of laughter and unwavering devotion to family and friends.

She is survived by her beloved daughters Bonnie Winegord (Steve) Kise, Melinda (Jeff) Melton, and Paula (Mark) Naughton; grandchildren Rebecca (Dan) Cloutier, Thomas Winegord, Shane Warren, Paul (Erica) Melton, and Emily Melton, cherished great-grandchildren Nicholas, Savannah, Rylee, Brooke, Thomas, Parker, Jack, and many nieces and nephews whom she loved deeply.  She was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph H. Brown, and daughters Denise Brown and Deborah Brown.

Services will be held at Immaculate Conception Church, 2846 Hubbard Road, Madison, Ohio, on Thursday, June 19, 2025.  Visitation with family will begin at 10:00 a.m., with mass at 11:00 and burial immediately following at North Madison Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Hospice of the Western Reserve or Madison Garden Club.

Frank MacWilliams Jr.

Frank MacWilliams, Jr., age 62, of Painesville, passed away peacefully on June 2, 2025 surrounded by his family.  For most of Frank’s life he enjoyed working in maintenance and mowing the neighborhood yards for many years.  His hobbies included woodwork, camping, cooking, and making a good barbecue. He was especially known for making a great pig roast with all of the fixings.  For many years Frank was involved in scouts including Girls Scouts with his daughter and Boy Scouts as an Assistant Scoutmaster with his son. If he was not in the yard tinkering with a project then you could find him on the open road riding his Harley.  He was always willing to help anyone that needed him at any day or time.  

Frank was survived by his loving wife of 42 years Karen (Barfield) and children Nicole Carballo (Gerardo) and Frank MacWilliams III.  He enjoyed spending time with his grandsons Eduardo Carballo and Hunter MacWilliams.  He was also survived by his siblings Joseph (Patty) Passafiume, David (Kathy) Passafiume, Jean Honse, James Passafiume, and Thomas MacWilliams, brother in law Donald (Sharon) Barfield and many nieces and nephews.  Also multiple bonus children that called him Dad and Papa over the years.

Frank was preceded in death by his parents Frank and JoAnn MacWilliams, in-laws Rudolph and Geneva Barfield, his brother Robert Passafiume, brother in-law Barry Honse, and grandsons Xavier, Gabriel, and Anthony Carballo.  

The family would like to extend their appreciation to the Hospice of the Western Reserve care team (Rose, Noelle, Amber, John, Letia, and Shelley) for taking amazing care of Frank and his family.

A celebration of life will be held at 10AM on June 14, at Lakeside Baptist Church, 306 Fairport Nursery Rd, Painesville, OH 44077.

Vilma Wilson

Vilma Wilson (Tabory) died peacefully in her sleep on May 27, 2025, at the age of 99. She was preceded in death by her husband, Wayne, son William (Rose), parents Steven and Irene, and her nine siblings. Vilma was born on April 23, 1926. She was a resident of Kirtland for over fifty years and her home there was a fixture in the lives of her children and grandchildren. Vilma enjoyed bingo, a good garage sale, and had a talent for drawing that she passed on to her daughter and granddaughters. Her family will always cherish memories made with Vilma over years of vacations, particularly in regular trips to a special spot in the Bahamas. Vilma leaves behind her children Jean (Barron) and Matthew (Monica), grandchildren Rachel (Chris), Thomas (Lindsay), Matthew (Courtney), Molly, Michael, and Malorie, and five great-grandchildren. She will be greatly missed.

Patricia “Pat” Thoma

Patricia “Pat” Thoma, age 76 years, of Alliance, Ohio, passed away peacefully on May 31, 2025, surrounded by family.

Born on February 20, 1949, in Salem, Ohio, Pat was known for her kindness, strength and a spirit that was always in motion.  She had a lifelong love of horses – finding a career in thoroughbred racing early on.  Other career endeavors include finance and accounting, real estate and as a jewelry consultant.

Pat didn’t just find joy in the still moments at a racetrack; she also lit up every dance floor she touched.  Whether it was a spontaneous twirl in the kitchen or a night out with friends, Pat danced with the kind of joy that was contagious.  Her love of horses fed her soul, but dancing gave her wings.

Her love reached far beyond horses and music.  She was a fiercely loyal friend, devoted family member, and someone who was always there with compassion in her heart.  Being loved by her was to know the purest form.

She is survived by her sister, Joann Folk; children Douglas (Micki) Merwin, Robert (Jane) Merwin, Lisa (Paul) Szabo; stepchildren Warren (Missy) Thoma, Steven (Tamar) Thoma, Ronald (Kristina) Thoma; and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren who will carry her love and laughter in their hearts.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Armin Thoma, brothers Ralph Wright Jr. and George V. Wright, and parents Ralph Wright Sr. and Anna Wright.

A celebration of Pat’s life will be held on August 30, starting at 1:00 pm at Esther’s Barn, 2855 S. Union Ave, Alliance, Ohio.  Friends and family are invited to come share stories, memories and even a dance or two – because she would have loved that.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to Maplewood of Cuyahoga Falls, Crossroads Hospice, or dementia charity of your choice.

Pat will be remembered for her firecracker personality, loving heart, and contagious laugh.