David “Dave” Schefft

David “Dave” Schefft, 79, of Mentor, Ohio, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family.

Beloved husband of Diane (Denny); loving father of Jen Waterman (Joe) and Jason Schefft (Maria); proud grandfather of Mae, Charlotte, and Luke. He is also survived by his sister, Carol Poley (Gordon), and was a cherished uncle to several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Viola and Walter Schefft.

Dave’s quick wit and humor endeared him to all. A lifelong Cleveland sports fan, he enjoyed basketball, golfing, bowling, and serving as a deacon and Stephen Minister at Faith Lutheran Church in Mentor. His deepest commitment was always to his family.

A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, September 27, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Faith Lutheran Church, 8125 Mentor Ave., Mentor, OH 44060.

Cheere Bruner

Cheere Louise Bruner age 75, of Wickliffe, Ohio passed away peacefully on September 2, 2025. Loving daughter of late Lloyd Short and Betty Eyring (nee Davis).

Cherished mother of Jeffrey Spooner, and Cassandra (Richard) Alanen. Devoted grandmother of Jeffrey Byrd, Nicholas Alanen, and Matthew Alanen. 

Dear sister of Steve (Jan) Eyring, Michelle (John) Roach, Russ (Ellie) Eyring, and the late Cherel Webb. Aunt of many nieces and nephews. Cheere graduated from Eastlake North High School in 1968. Before she retired, she worked as a server, restaurant manager, and then a wax assembly technician.  She was a very generous, kind, hard-working, light hearted person, and she loved her family very much. She enjoyed playing video games, reading mystery novels, and knitting/cross stitching. The family would like to extend their sincere gratitude to the David Simpson Hospice House staff for caring for her.  All Services will be Private.

Dan Macy

 Dan Macy April 11, 1951 – August 30, 2025 

Dan Macy, 74, of Fairport Harbor, passed away peacefully on August 30, 2025. He was born on April 11, 1951, in Painesville, Ohio, to the late Richard and Charlotte Macy. 

Dan was a dedicated worker and business owner in both the plumbing and automotive industries. Outside of his career, he had a passion for drag racing and was a successful sportsman racer, proudly competing in Ohio, North Carolina, and surrounding states. 

He is survived by his loving wife, Linda Sue Arnett Macy; his children, Scott Macy (Angela) of Randleman, NC, Alyson Baczek (Dave) of Painesville, Clayton Bouldin of Geneva and Janine Bouldin of Fairport Harbor; and grandchildren, Andrew Baczek, Ava Baczek, and Lennon Abate. He is also survived by his sister, Joyce Thaler of Elyria, and his brother, Robert Macy of North Carolina. 

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Ronald Macy. 

Dan will be remembered for his mechanical skill, competitive spirit, and deep love for his family 

Elaine K. Goffee

Elaine Kay Goffee, passed away suddenly and unexpectedly on August 22, 2025, at the age of 75. Kay was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, whose warmth, kindness, and adventurous spirit touched all who knew her.

Born on April 8, 1950, in Charleston, West Virginia, Kay was the daughter of the late William Clarence Wingo and Viola Ruth Wingo (née Rice). She was preceded in death by her late husband, Robert John Miller with whom she operated Bob Miller's Trucking & Excavating, a successful business that she was extremely proud of. She was also preceded in death by her brother, Billy Wingo; her sisters Jean Wingo; and Sharon Smith (née Wingo)

Kay is survived by her devoted husband, Terry Lee Goffee, with whom she shared a deep bond and a life filled with music, travel, and shared dreams. Together, they co-founded Little Kate Music Group, Inc., which took them across the United States, Canada, and Europe, including memorable tours through Ireland, England, and Germany.

A loving mother, Kay is survived by her children: Cindy (Randy) Lawhorn , Kevin Jarvis, Heather Jarvis, and Bobbi (Chris) Jenkins. Kay cherished her grandchildren: Sabrina Lawhorn, Nicholas Jarvis, Michael Jarvis, Mathew Jarvis, Jacob Moore, and Samantha Simmons. She was also blessed with a great-granddaughter, Daytona Lankey.

Kay is also survived by her brother Julius “Bubby” Wingo, many nieces and nephews, as well as other extended family members and close friends who will miss her dearly.

An avid reader and passionate gardener, Kay found joy in the simple things — tending her flowers, diving into a good book, or spending a lively afternoon at the casino. Her laughter was infectious, and her love for life was evident in everything she did.

Above all, Kay will be remembered for her unwavering love and devotion to her family, her joyful spirit, and the beautiful music she helped bring into the world. Her legacy will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege to know and love her. 

Celebration of Life for Elaine “Kay” Goffee

Please join us in honoring and celebrating the life of Kay on Thursday, September 11th, from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Lorain County Fairgrounds – 23000 Fairgrounds Rd., Building 19, Wellington, OH 44090. This will be an informal gathering to remember and celebrate Kay.Friends and family are welcome to stop by at any time during the evening to pay their respects, share memories, and offer condolences. There is no formal service planned.

Your presence, whether brief or extended, will mean a great deal to all who loved her.

Thomas C. Andras “Tiny”

Mr. Thomas Casimir "Tiny" Andras, Sr., age 83, passed away on August 23, 2025, in Concord, Ohio. Born on January 6, 1942, in Cleveland, Ohio, Thomas lived a full and generous life marked by service, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to those around him.

A proud graduate of Collinwood High School in the Class of 1960, Thomas went on to serve his country with honor in the United States Navy. Stationed in Mayport, Florida for six years, he rose to the rank of First Class Petty Officer in Intelligence. His time in the Navy instilled in him a deep sense of duty and camaraderie that remained with him throughout his life.

Following his military service, Thomas embarked on a long and dedicated career with East Ohio Gas at the northeast shop. Over the course of 39 years, he became a respected figure among his colleagues for his work ethic and reliability.

Thomas was married to Doris for 63 years-a testament to their enduring partnership and love. Together they built a family rooted in warmth and support. He is survived by Doris; their son Chris and daughter-in-law Danielle; grandsons Matthew and Steven (Sarah); granddaughters Mersi (Dustin) and Isabel; and great-granddaughter Inara. He was preceded in death by his beloved son Thomas Jr., as well as his sisters Dorothy and Ann.

In retirement, Thomas embraced his passion for cooking by taking classes that further fueled his love for preparing meals. Known for never letting anyone go hungry, he found joy in feeding others-whether it was family dinners or impromptu gatherings with friends and neighbors. A true beer aficionado, he enjoyed sampling brews at local establishments and was always ready to share a cold one with good company.

Thomas had an extraordinary gift for connection. Social by nature, he thrived on conversation and community. He looked out for everyone around him-family members, friends, neighbors-always ready to lend a hand or offer support whenever needed.

His legacy is one of generosity, loyalty, and spirited companionship. May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him.

JOHN BOJEC

It is with heavy hearts and deep sadness we announce the passing of John Bojec on August 17, 2025, at the age of 93. Born in Cleveland, Ohio, John lived most of his life in Highland Hts. before moving to Mentor.  John was a devoted husband, a loving father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and brother. He was also a loyal friend, always ready to help those around him. Known for his strong work ethic and passion for fishing, John was a devoted husband to Joan (Dalessio) Bojec for 66 years.

He is survived by his daughter, Pamela (Chris) Bojec; son, John (Diana) Bojec; grandchildren Tiffany (Michael) Phillips, Mitchell Bojec, Alexandra (Trey) Preston, Owen and Elena Bojec; great-grandchildren Beau and Crew Phillips, and Landon Preston; and his sister, Marge (Dave) Zebrowski. He now joins his parents, John and Gertrude (Laidman) Bojec, and his sister, Joan Bojec.

A private service will be held. 

The family extends their gratitude to Hero’s Harbor and its nursing staff for the exceptional care provided to John during his time there. If you would like to make a donation in John’s name to the Cleveland VAMC (include GPF1205 in Memory of John Bojec in the memo); LSVAMC, Attn: 3B Heros Harbor Social Worker, 10701 East Blvd., Cleveland, OH. 44106

Patricia J. Williams

Patricia J Williams (Moderalli), age 86, passed away unexpectedly August 3, 2025 at UH TriPoint Medical Center in Concord, Ohio. She was born October 25, 1938 in Youngstown, Ohio. Patricia is survived by her children, Cindy Williams (Mentor, Ohio), and Mark Williams (Traci) (Four Oakes, NC), her grandchildren Melissa King (Madison, Ohio), Mark J Williams (North Royalton, Ohio), Rachel Williams (Gregory Grodecki) (Raleigh, NC), Allen Williams (Raleigh, NC). Patricia has 2 new great grandchildren Melanie Jean and Marlowe Jean (Raleigh, NC). Preceding her in death are her husband, Guy Williams, and son Raymond Williams, her parents Patrick and Irene Moderalli, brother Robert Moderalli, sister Bonnie George all of Youngstown, Ohio. Patricia worked part time at TJMaxx in Mentor, Ohio up until she passed away.

There will be no calling hours, per her request.

Burial will be at Fairview Cemetery in Madison, Ohio.

Maxine A. "Suzie" Whetson Koprowski

Maxine A. "Suzie" Whetson Koprowski, age 59, resident of Jefferson Health and Rehabilitation Center, passed way on July 31, 2025 in Cleveland, Ohio. She was born in Warren, Ohio. Cherished daughter of the late Max & Irene (Fink) Whetson. Maxine was a resident of Ashtabula County most of her life, other than living in N. Bloomfield and in Cleveland over the years. Suzie was a homemaker and worked sometimes at the Rock Creek Pizza Shoppe.

Survivors include her daughter Amanda (Montville) Marlow, sister Dorothy M. (David) Shinkle of Rock Creek, & brother Max W. (Millie Simon) Whetson, Jr. of Conneaut; her 6 grandchildren, Anastasia Doll, Joshua Marlow Jr., Max and Chloe Hennigan, Ethan Guy Fetters, and Connor Montville, her Husband, Timothy Koprowski, and many nieces and nephews. She was proceded in death by her parents; Max W. Irene F. Whetson, Sr. and son, Glenn Montville, Jr., daughter, Amber Fetters, and nephew, Daniel Shinkle.

A Memorial Service will be held at a later date at Morgan Union Cemetery Chapel with the date and time to be announced.

Robert William Sellers

With heavy hearts but also smiles for all the joy he brought, we announce that Robert William Sellers peacefully left this world on August 7, 2025, at the age of 82.

Bob was many things - a devoted husband and father, caring brother, world class grandfather, fun uncle, loyal friend and a hard worker of various trades throughout his life. Bob was born in Cleveland, Ohio. He was a bright light in every room — part charm, part wit, quick to laugh and entirely easy to love.

He leaves behind his wife Joanne, his co-pilot in life and love for over “60” years of adventures, moves, and special moments shared at their beloved Lake Santeetlah in the Great Smoky Mountains.

Bob is survived by his three girls Lisa (Dennis) Morek, Cheryl (Scott) Hesprich, and Sheri (Bill) Condon; grandchildren Matt (Sophie), Jessie, Joey, Josh, Luke (Payton), Owen, Ella, and Evan; great-granddaughter Hazel; brother Tom “Bubba” (Nina) Bennett; sister-in-law Audrey Myers; and many special nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

In heaven, Bob now joins his parents Harry and Helen Bennett; his brother Lloyd “Lee” Andrew Sellers; granddaughter Ellie Morek; and his brother-in-law and best bud Launce Myers.

To be around Bob was to feel happiness. He shared what he had, listened without judgment, and made us laugh — often when we needed it most. Bob loved his country and was deeply patriotic, proud to call it home and grateful for the freedoms it gave. We’ll remember him in the glow of a mountain sunset, the sweep of an eagle across a blue sky, and yes…when we share a rolling rock – or a popsicle with a joke on the stick - while enjoying a beautiful lake view.

Bob’s life wasn’t just well-lived — it was well-loved. And he made sure we all knew it. He is and always will be deeply missed. May God bless and keep him until we meet again.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, August 13 at 12pm; St. John Vianney Catholic Church - 7575 Bellflower Rd. Mentor, OH; burial at Mentor Municipal Cemetery and reception to follow.

In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Association at www.alz.org in memory of Robert Sellers.

John Cirino

John Cirino, age 88, of Willoughby, Ohio passed away on August 4, 2025. He was born on June 15, 1937, in Matrice, Italy to parents Angelo and Luisa (née Papariello) Cirino, both deceased. Beloved husband of Ernestine (née Rebish) Cirino for 62 years, brother of Matilda (Tom) Hill and Anthony (Toni) Cirino, brother-in-law to Patricia Gall and Edward (Linda) Rebish, uncle to nine and great uncle to twelve.

John was an avid golfer, bowler, and lover of all sports.  He particularly enjoyed family gatherings in the Italian tradition.  He was loved by many, and will be truly missed.

A memorial mass will be held Wednesday, August 27, 2025, at 11:00 am at St. John Vianney Church , 7575 Bellflower Rd, Mentor, Ohio.  PLEASE MEET AT THE CHURCH.

Interment immediately following at Western Reserve Memorial Gardens in Chesterland, Ohio.

Brian Spencer Deighan

With heavy hearts and forever love, we announce the passing of Brian Spencer Deighan, who left us on July 28, 2025, at the age of 63. Brian was many things — a devoted husband, a caring brother, brother in law, a fun uncle, a loyal friend and hard worker. To all who knew him, he was a bright light, impossible to forget, and easy to love. Born on May 21, 1962, Brian lived a life rich in laughter, generosity, and creativity. He was the husband of Laura (Phelps) Deighan, his partner in love, adventure, and the quiet moments at the beach (many beaches throughout the years) which mattered most. The brother of Kevin (Barb), Craig (Kay), Michele, Patti (Toby Kalin), Tim (Chris), Melissa (Jim Garcar), and Kerry (Matt Bowser) and son of Patrick and Luann. To be in Brian’s presence was to feel happiness. He gave of himself in sincere ways — the kind that leaves a lasting impact. Brian was person who listened, made people laugh, and loved greatly. His kind and sincere ways brought new life to driftwood, turning it into heartfelt works of art, each piece paired with the perfect paint, phrase, or memory. He gifted his creations generously, all made from his hands and heart — for any occasion or just because — each one a reflection of his deep thoughtfulness and spirit. His warmth and presence will be missed beyond words. We will think of him when the sun dips low over the water, when driftwood washes ashore, and when a simple act of kindness changes someone’s day. Brian lived with purpose, gave with abundance, and loved without reservation. His Irish exits will be imitated, never duplicated, because Brian was one of a kind.

He is and always will be,deeply missed. To know him is to love him. Until we meet again- one love; peace.

Kenneth C. Pikula

Kenneth C. Pikula age 68 of Mentor, Ohio passed away unexpectedly Wednesday July 30, 2025. He was raised in the Collinwood area of Cleveland then moved with family to Cleveland Heights.  Graduated from CHS in the year of 1975. In his young years he was a caddie for a golf course, went on to be a machinist,  a vacuum store owner and various jobs in his retired years. In Cleveland Heights  he became a member of the Knights of Columbus,  becoming a Grand Knight. Members would compliment him on his service and speaking abilities. Moving to Mayfield Heights he joined the St. Clare parish. He became active in volunteering for the weekly bingo events.  Thru all this time he was as he said, "number 1 fan of the Cleveland Indians", and his favorite the Cleveland Browns.

Kenneth was the son of the late Chester and Mary Pikula of Mayfield Hts. He is survived by his sister Kathleen Collins, ( Terry Collins- deceased), Nancy Nicholl and husband John Nicholl;  Nephew Matthew Wolf (Mindy), Niece Teresa Romano (Joseph), nephew Patrick Collins; Grand niece Alyssa Wolf,  Grand nephews Anthony Wolf, and Tyler Romano.

Church Services will be held on Saturday, August, 9, 2025 promptly at 10 am. at The Church of St. Clare 5659 Mayfield Rd. Lyndhurst, OH 44124.

Marlene (Ducca) Griffin

Marlene (Ducca) Griffin, age 76, of Mentor Ohio passed away unexpectedly Sunday, July 27 2025 in Concord Ohio. Her home was in Mentor and prior to that, Painesville and Euclid. She was born in Indiana, PA. 

Marlene was a 1967 graduate of Euclid Sr High. She had worked a number of different places over the years, retiring in 2019. At the time of her death, she was employed at Marc’s in Mentor where she leaves behind many friends. 

Marlene was a very strong-willed person and was the loving mother of John, Don (Stella) and Nicci Morin. Grandchildren include Julianne (Jordan) Palinkas, CJ, Alex Morin, and John Vasquez Morin. She was the sister of Ron (Barbara), Joanne (Edward) Kraynak, Alex (Rose), Dan, Reggie Pajk and Barb (Anthony) Discenzo; sister-in-law Gloria, aunt to many nieces and nephews, dearest cousin and friend to many and lifelong best friend of Deni Wild. She also leaves behind her furry friends Charlie, Benny and Sassy. 

Preceding Marlene in death were her parents, Alexander and Natalie, brother Tom, niece Maura Kraynak and the love of her life, Lee Feathers. 

She loved to help everyone she could and to make people smile. Marlene will be forever missed among the family and friends that she has left behind. 

Church service (mass) will be held Friday August 8, 2025 at 9:30 A.M. at St John Vianney 7575 Bellflower Rd, Mentor Ohio. There will be a luncheon after the service at Lakeshore Assembly of God, 8880 Lakeshore Blvd, Mentor immediately following the service. 

Gary T. Frounfelker

Gary T. Frounfelker

September 9, 1962 - June 11, 2025

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Gary T. Frounfelker. He will be remembered for his exceptional ability to connect with others and positively influence those around him. His kindness, generosity, and steadfast commitment to family, friends, and colleagues distinguished him throughout his life. Gary touched many lives in a meaningful way and leaves behind a legacy of compassion, integrity, and a keen sense of humor. Though he was taken by cancer suddenly far too soon, his memory will remain deeply valued by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Gary Frounfelker son of Clinton and Mary Ann Frounfelker leaves behind his mother, Fiancée Cerisse Tucker and his two siblings Janis Ward (Chuck) and Daniel Frounfelker (Sharon).

Gary began his journey in 2017 following a diagnosis of Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS), recognized as a precursor to leukemia. After undergoing two bone marrow transplants and experiencing over six years of remission, his cancer unfortunately returned in the form of Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL), an aggressive and treatment-resistant strain. Despite pursuing all available treatments, Gary's condition continued to worsen, and on June 11, 2025, his spirt returned home to God.

Everyone who knew Gary recognized his passion for running. He served as a coach for track, cross country, and hurdles for many years at Normandy, Maple Heights, and the Middle Schools, where he was known to students and faculty as Coach Fronk. His secondary career was as a therapist, where he worked for many years alongside leading professionals in the field, directly assisting individuals in regaining mobility and returning to their daily lives and loved ones. Gary approached his work with commitment, never voicing complaints or expressing regret about dedicating much of his time and energy to helping others.

Gary will be remembered for his genuine compassion for others and his dedicated support for those in need. He made personal sacrifices to ensure the well-being and happiness of all those around him, leaving a legacy of pure honest care and generosity.

In honor of a truly inspirational man A Celebration Of Life will be held on Saturday, July 26  from 12:30 to 2:30 at Walton Hills Church of Christ 7166 Dunham Rd Walton Hills OH 44146.

Frank Giganti

Frank “Butch” Giganti

(1943-2025)

Butch passed away on July 19th, 2025 at his home in Strongsville, Ohio. He is survived by his long time companion, Sharon McFaul, who helped him with some difficult health issues and was his constant caregiver up until his passing.  Previously, he was married for many years to Patricia Dzuro Giganti (Deceased).  They had two sons; Frank & Jim (Deceased). He has three beautiful granddaughters; Gianna & Salina (Jim & Tish) and Colette (Frank & Sharon). He has a precious great granddaughter Avery, and a great grandson coming soon! (Gianna & Brandon)

He was the youngest of three children born to Vincent Giganti and Marie Giganti (Roberto) from Cleveland Ohio.  He was extremely close with his brother Charles “Chuck” Giganti (Deceased), his loving sister-n-law Cherie, and their children; Vince, George, Jimmy and Michael. And of course his devoted sister, Celia Giganti, with whom he spoke daily for so many years.

He served with the Army Reserve / National Guard and often donated blood through the red cross, as he had a rare blood type that helped children with certain cancers.

Butch was a great chef!  From the Gold Key Inn & Butchie’s Place to the Alliance of Poles in Slavic Village, to the “infamous” Pasta Alley in Bedford, people would come from all over to eat, drink and enjoy the company of family and friends.

He was known simply as Mr. G, to so many of his son’s friends over the years. He was always quick to offer them food and drink with a few colorful stories mixed in of course!

Perhaps you’ve heard the song, “My Way”, sung by Frank Sinatra.  For Butch, it was more like an anthem!  Through the ups and downs, the ebbs and flows, the magic and tragic of life, as the song says…

“Let the record show, I took the blows and did it my way”.

Velma Steingart

Our Beloved Matriarch

Velma Stella Cole Steingart

August 3, 1930 – July 13, 2025

Velma Stella Cole Steingart passed away peacefully on July 13, 2025, at age 94. She was surrounded by family at the David Simpson Hospice House, Hospice of the Western Reserve, in Cleveland, Ohio. It was a beautiful end to a truly amazing life.

Velma was born on August 3, 1930, in North Bay, Ontario. She was raised in Kirkland Lake alongside her six brothers and sisters. As a young woman, Velma moved to St. Catharines, Ontario, where she worked as a bookkeeper at General Motors and played competitive softball. It was there, at age 18, that she met the love of her life, Frank Steingart Jr. After marrying, a coin toss determined whether they would start their new life together in Buffalo or Cleveland. Cleveland won. They settled in Painesville, Ohio, where they raised their five daughters and became members of the Painesville Church of the Brethren.

Velma and Frank’s relationship is the cornerstone of our family. They were true soulmates. When asked, “Which of your children is your favorite?” Velma, without hesitation, would reply, “My husband.” That unwavering bond set a powerful example of love that ripples through generations. Their partnership was full of laughter, competition, and deep companionship until Frank’s passing in 1991.

People were naturally drawn to Velma; she had a special gift for bringing others together. She drew people in with her energy, wit, and candor. She was always prepared with a quick and witty response. She befriended everyone, even during her final days.

A lifelong love of sports contributed to her competitive nature, which became a defining trait throughout her life. As an athlete, she golfed, bowled, curled, and played softball and hockey. Her skill in these sports led to years of coaching many youth leagues. You could also always count on Velma to have a game on TV, regardless of the season.

Nothing was more important to Velma than family. Her love was unconditional, and her door was always open. Whether you were a child, grandchild, neighbor, or four-legged visitor, you were greeted with snacks, stories, and a listening ear. She made time for everyone, and her home was a place of laughter. She and Frank fostered an environment with family at the forefront, which resulted in a multi-generational legacy with no end in sight.

Velma is survived by her daughters: Brenda (Mike) Dey, Barbara (Kevin) Deighan, Susan (Steven) Bissonnette, and Joanne (Derek) LaDuke; her son-in-law Bill Ward; her sister Gail Hemphill; and her grandchildren: Alissa (Mark) Miller, Erin (John) Siegel, Julie Dey, Jennifer (Robert) Hayden, Michael (Anna) Dey, Kyle (Jessica) Deighan, Evan (Elena) Deighan, Kali (Jon) Portz, Cole, Carter, and Caroline Bissonnette, and Hunter, Olivia, and Grant LaDuke. She also leaves behind 13 adored great-grandchildren and many dear nieces and nephews.

Velma was preceded in death by her husband, Frank Steingart Jr.; her eldest daughter, Cheryl Lynn Ward; her parents Tom and Annie Cole; her brothers: Everett (Leatrice) Cole, Gerald Cole, and Garth Cole; her sisters: Dorothy (Clifford) Pennell and Amy (Bruce) Huston; and her brother-in-law Doug Hemphill.

Velma’s fierce love and strong spirit made others feel welcome and seen. She will be missed more than words can express, and her memory will live on in our family and the friendships she so deeply cherished.

We would like to thank the wonderful caregivers and hospice staff at Vista Springs Quail Highlands and David Simpson Hospice House, all of whom treated Velma attentively and lovingly.

Please join Velma’s family for an open-house celebration of life at Hellriegel’s Inn (1840 Mentor Ave, Painesville, OH 44077) on August 8 from 4:30-6:30 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, please direct donations to Hospice of the Western Reserve.

Donate online: hospicewr.org/donate

Donate by mail: Hospice of the Western Reserve Development Team PO Box 72700 Cleveland, OH 44192

Rose Nancy DeSantis

Rose Nancy Desantis age 94, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on July 17, 2025. She was born in Cleveland, OH to Joseph and Nancy DeSantis. She was preceded in death by her siblings: Mario, Qinto, Mary, Pat, Robert, Joseph, Janie, and Frank DeSantis. Cherished sister-in-law of Pauline, Eleanor, and Doris. Loving Aunt of many nieces and nephews. Rose loved to dance, and listen to Proud Mary by Tina Turner. A Private Family Service was held.

John Jacob Pauler, Jr,

John Jacob Pauler, Jr.
1948-2025

John Jacob Pauler, Jr., peacefully passed into Eternity July 12, 2025, at TriPoint Medical Center after 76 years on this Earth. He was born in Chardon, Ohio, to John, Sr. and Sophie (Antonio) Pauler and spent his entire life in Chardon, Painesville, and Ashtabula Harbor. He was a career heavy equipment operator for R.W. Sidley's in Painesville, Ashtabula, and Thompson, a proud Vietnam War vet, and a devoted, unfailingly loving father to 2 military members, daughter Jennifer (U.S. Army) and son Christopher (U.S.M.C.).

John was known as a helper and hard worker, famous for completing a household's entire to-do list every time he visited you. He was a lifelong avid fisherman, frequenting the waters of Lake Erie and Lake Pymatuning to harvest for fish fries of perch and walleye, which he would willingly share with anyone nearby. He was a skilled pierogi maker, having learned the art from his Polish grandmother.

He loved woodworking and gifting his work. People remember him for his help and advice, his giving nature, and his love of celebrating with others. Besides his children, he leaves his wife, Trevelyn, and families of stepchildren Davey, David, Kenny, and Fred, and 14 grandchildren: Freddy and Zac; Nelson; Amber and Braden; Heather and Denay, Michael and Meghan; Karina, Nathan, Charlotte and Daniel; and Katie Pauler. He will be missed, but still loved, always.

Gary F. Leers

With great sadness we announce the passing of Gary F. Leers, on June 25, 2025, at the age of 65, after a battle with cancer. He died surrounded by his loving family.

Gary leaves behind his mother Helen Leers (nee Ulle), sisters Ada (Michael) Haines, Barb Jackson, Dona (Larry) Walter, Ellen (Greg) Vickers, many nieces & nephews, as well as grandnieces & grandnephews, his two birds (Truman & Prissy) and his large circle of friends. He is predeceased by his father (Donald Leers) and sister (Carol Leers).

Born on October 29, 1959, Gary grew up in Novelty, Ohio. After graduating from West Geauga High School, he served in the US Navy, then worked for Davies Can in Solon. He then went on to study Physical Therapy at Kent State University where he earned his degree as a Physical Therapy Assistant. For the past 20+ years he worked as a PTA at Layton Physical Therapy in Madison, Ohio.

Gary was adventurous, creative, talented and had many passions and hobbies. In his younger years, he enjoyed playing on the football team, and playing his guitar while his sisters sang along! Gary found excitement in jumping from perfectly good airplanes. He spent his weekends at Cleveland Sport Parachute Center, his second home, skydiving by day and partying by night with his skydiving friends. Gary was also an avid reader and found joy in learning new things. He enjoyed woodworking, growing herbs and veggies, cooking, birdwatching, and stargazing with his telescope. He adored his birds, treating them as if they were his children. He was a golf nut who looked forward to his weekly game with his close friend, was always eager for the next poker game, and always had at least two games of chess going at the same time.

Gary was dearly loved by family and by friends from the different worlds that he was a part of. He loved his job, his co-workers and his patients. Gary often spoke about the fun times and laughter he shared with them all. His drop zone friends, who nicknamed him “Q”, were a huge part of his life, making lifelong friendships and many amazing memories. He cherished his childhood and high school buddies, reliving the glory days and telling stories about their shenanigans. They will forever be a part of Gary’s family. Gary will be remembered for his gentle kindness, his sense of humor, his big smile and his goofy demeanor. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Family and friends are invited to join in a relaxed Celebration of Life and Remembrance of Gary, on July 19,2025 at The Cleveland Skydiving Center, 15199 Grove Rd, Garrettsville, OH 44231. This is a casual outdoor event at the drop zone. Some chairs will be provided, however, please feel free to bring a camp chair. A picnic lunch will be served. Schedule of events: (times are approximate) Weather permitting. 2:15 pm: Gary’s “Q’s” niece and nephews will make a tandem jump in his memory. 3:00 pm: Brief tribute and prayer. At this time, anyone who would like to share a memory or funny story to the group is welcome to. Following the tribute, Gary’s remains will be released into the sky with his close friends freefalling right beside him.

The Family is grateful to A-Parrot to A-Flamingo for rescuing Gary’s beloved birds. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to: A-Parrot to A-Flamingo, P.O. Box 41414, Brecksville, OH 44141.

Henry Jack Baker

Henry Jack Baker passed away peacefully at home Sunday morning, July 13, 2025, in Mentor, OH. Jack was the son of the late Henry Jacob and Berta Oschadleus Baker, was born at St. Vincent’s hospital in Erie, PA, on July 21, 1930.

Jack is survived by his wife of 65 years, Dinah Gartner Baker of Mentor, OH, his children, Jacqueline Sajewski of Mentor, Stan Baker (Alison) of Tabernash, CO, and Dianne Baker (Jay Odell) of Fredericksburg, VA, and five grandchildren (Patrick Bean, Shawn Bean, Kara Bean Salina, Abigail Odell, and Sami Baker) and two great-grandchildren. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his daughter, Julie Baker Dodson of Albuquerque, NM.

Jack grew up in Harborcreek, PA, helping his mother run a small farmstead, then earned his BS in Engineering at Penn State University. He then served stateside in the US Army, before working as an engineer in St. Mary’s and State College, PA. He moved with his young family in 1965 to Erie to work at Erie Tech, and later worked at Spectrum Control as Vice-President of Engineering until his retirement.

He made time for serving on the Peek’n Peak Ski Patrol, training English Setters for birddog trials and grouse hunting, and teaching (with mixed success) his children and grandchildren to ski, play tennis, and fish. He always supported his children and grandchildren in their interests, and loudly and proudly cheered them on in their figure skating competitions, wrestling matches, basketball games, ballet performances, soccer matches, and scouting awards. He had less fun tutoring them in their high school math, but nevertheless made valiant efforts.

Upon retirement, Jack pursued his greatest passions with a fervor. Crisscrossing the USA with Dinah and his birddog, Maggie, he fished rivers from central PA to the Pacific NW, hunted woodcock from New York to Louisiana, and cooked his catch at their campsites. He made the Colorado Rockies his second home, spending the three winter months skiing the black diamond moguls and the three summer months catching brook trout on flies (especially his own “wingless” Adams) and perfecting his serve on the tennis courts.

After mastering the moguls, Jack and Dinah moved to Mentor, where he continued to work on his serve and started his modeling career, willingly serving as his daughter’s muse in elaborate photoshoots. In his nineties, Jack took up woodcarving, cheesemaking, ukulele, pickle ball, and astrophysics.

We will miss Jack’s enthusiasm for life, deep love of the outdoors, tremendous selflessness, unending curiosity, and especially his ever-present humor.

In lieu of a service, a celebration of Jack’s life is being planned for a later date by the family.

Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of the Western Reserve, whose kind and expert care was greatly appreciated by Jack and his family.