Suzanne Walker

Suzanne Walker 66, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 30, 2020 at Country Place Nursing Home in Wickliffe.

Suzanne was born on August 6, 1953 in Cleveland, Ohio to the late Sheldon and Mildred Walker. Suzanne graduated from Mentor High School, and furthered her education at Lakeland and Bowling Green State University. Suzanne retired from the City of Mentor as an administrative assistant.

Suzanne loved Walt DisneyWorld, movies, politics, and most importantly, her family and friends. She was always trying to make a difference in her community, and in the lives of others. Suzanne was a loving, caring, friendly, and giving person to all those that had the blessing of knowing her.

Suzanne Walker is preceded in death by her parents, and sister, Jennette Walker. Suzanne leaves to cherish her memory, her brother Mark Walker, and many other family and friends. Her visitation will be on Thursday, February 13, 2020 at St. John Vianney Chapel, 7575 Bellflower Road in Mentor from 6:00-7:45pm. A Memorial Service begins at 7:45pm. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to the family may be made payable to Heather Keeper.

Bonnie Virginia Hays Sellitto

In Loving Memory

Bonnie Virginia Sellitto

October 30, 1937 - January 29, 2020

Bonnie Virginia Hays Sellitto, 82, a resident of Madison, OH passed away on January 29, 2020. Bonnie was born in San Francisco, California and later lived in Pasadina and San Marino before moving to Painesville, Ohio. She has resided in Madison, Ohio for the past 30 years. Bonnie married Ronald Baird in 1958 and raised four beautiful children before divorcing in 1973. Her first born, Bradley Baird (Lori Baird) preceded her in death in 1987. She is survived by Karen Bakos (Mitch Bakos), and twins Brett Baird (Michele), and Bart Baird (Rhonda), and many grandchildren. In 1980, Bonnie married Thomas Sellitto, the love of her life. She became step-mother to Thomas Selllitto, Jr. (Heidi), Daniel Sellitto (Diane), William Sellitto (Bridget), and James Sellitto (Sandi). They made many happy memories living on the shore of Lake Erie. During her long illness, Bonnie found peace looking at the beautiful lake view from her bedroom window. Bonnie was a homemaker and mother in the early years and later had a career as a secretary. Her love of interior decorating was evident in her beautiful homes, and she shared her talent through her business, B’s Interiors. She also enjoyed traveling, sewing, gardening, water and snow skiing, and spending time with her family and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents Frank and Virginia Hays. Family and friends will be notified of the date and time of a memorial service to be held in late spring or early summer.

William "Bill" Throop

William (Bill) E. Throop, age 59, passed away on Tuesday, January 28, 2020.  Bill was preceded in death by his mother, Barbara Durkoske, father William Throop, and brother Scott Throop. 

Bill is survived by children, grandchildren, aunts, uncle, cousins, and dear friends.

A funeral mass will be held on Friday, February 7, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church, 242 N. State, Painesville, OH 44077.  Contributions may be made in memory of Bill to LifeSpring Christian Church, 53 S. St. Clair St., Painesville, OH 44077.

Douglas J. Pecsok

Douglas J. Pecsok Private services will be held for Douglas J. Pecsok, 67, of Eastlake, a retired machine operator.  Mr. Pecsok died January 27th, 2020 at his residence. Born July 3rd, 1952, in Cleveland, he lived in Eastlake his entire life. Mr. Pecsok was retired but was formerly employed by Titan Manufacturing and Metal Seal Precision. Survivors are his mother, Norma of Eastlake; brother, Warren & sister-in-law Lauri of Mentor; sister, Candy Brunetz & brother in law Mike of Olive Branch, Mississippi; daughter, Susan Syrell of Katy, Texas; son, David of Eastlake; and son, James of Elba, Alabama. His wife, Mary, and his son, Nicholas, are deceased. There will be no calling hours. Arrangements will be held by Blessing Cremation Center in Mentor.

Nicholas A. Ricciardi

November 20, 1927- January 27, 2020

Nicholas A. Ricciardi Sr. age 92 of Madison, Ohio. Passed away peacefully on Monday January 27, 2020. Son of the late Rose (Tagliaferri) and Anthony Ricciardi. Beloved father of Nicholas Jr., Christine (Terry) Raske, Rose (David) Fisher, Toni Marie, Bernardine (Eddy) DelRe, and Rick (Pam). Grandfather of Michelle, Nicole, Zoltan, Jordan, Shawn, Dawn, Steve, David, Vincent (deceased), Joe, Kate, Kim, Mike, Matt, Dominic, Angelo, Maria, Rachel, and Angela. Great-grandfather of 32 and Great-great-grandfather of 4. Loving brother of Gerry Gill, and the following deceased: Florence Cook, Carrie Biscotti, and Michael Ricciardi. Nicholas loved working in the yard, working with his rose bushes, flea markets, worked at the farmers market in downtown Willoughby, and he loved birds. He was a veteran of World War II. A Celebration of Life for Nicholas will be held at Holy Cross Lutheran Church, 3050 McMackin Road, Madison, OH 44057 on Sunday February 9, 2020 from 2-4P.M.

Lawrence "Larry" Nelson

Lawrence (Larry) Nelson, 86 of Wickliffe, passed away Friday, January 24, 2020 at Lake West Hospital surrounded by his family.  Born January 7, 1934 in Brooklyn NY, he served 4 years (’52-’56) in the United States Navy.  Worked as a salesman for State Chemical for 30 years as well as for several car dealerships in Lake County for 30+ years.  He was a member of the VFW and the American Legion. He enjoyed golfing, riding his motorcycle, playing the lottery & scratchers, senior softball and spending time with his family.  To know him was to love him.

Larry is survived by his wife of 36 years Vicky (nee Shonk) of Wickliffe, children - Michelle Nelson of FL, Steven Nelson of FL, Christine (James) Walker of Newbury, Janene (Randall) Wheaton of Euclid, Kevin (Rachel LaMarca) and Alexis (Michael Caplinger) Nelson both of Willoughby, 9 Grandchildren,10 Great grandchildren, sister Rhoda (Herbert, deceased) Mittleman, of FL, brother Michael (Maureen) of NY, cousins Rosalind (George, deceased) Sullivan and Paul (Jane) Nelson and numerous friends.

Proceeded in death by his parents Samuel Nelson and Mary (Hockberg) Nelson. and cousin Susan (Michael) Stein.

Join his family for a celebration of life on Sunday, February 16, 2020 from 2-6:00 p.m. at VFW Post 3863, 33641 Vine St. Eastlake. (Behind Save-A-Lot).

Deborah J. Brown

Deborah J. Brown           

November 8, 1954 – January 23, 2020

It is with sadness that our beloved, free-spirited daughter, sister and aunt of many was called home unexpectedly.   While we believe she is now in a loving and peaceful place, her laughter and sense of humor will be missed.  Debbie was artistic, enjoyed traveling, and was a kind soul.

Debbie is survived by her mother, Jean Brown, sisters Bonnie Winegord Kise (Steve), Mindy Melton (Jeff), Paula Naughton (Mark), and many loving nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her father, Joseph Brown, and sister Denise Brown.

A funeral mass will be held at Immaculate Conception Church 2846 Hubbard Road, Madison, Ohio, on Monday, January 27, 2020, at 11:00 a.m.  A viewing and visitation will be held one hour before the service. Interment North Madison Cemetery.

Yolanda S. Thornton

 Yolanda Suzanne (Harvey) Thornton

           July 5,1956   - January 18, 2020

Yolanda was called home to eternal rest on January 18, 2020. She passed at her residence, in Kirtland, Ohio. 

She attended school and graduated from Mentor High School in 1974.  She worked various occupations over the years at Olan Mills Portrait Studios, a cook at "George's Famous Dinner Bell"  and she obtained her certification as a Medical Assistant, at ESI Career Center while working at Mag-Nif in Mentor. Where she met her husband of the last 20 years.

Yolanda is preceded in passing by her parents, Dale and Janiece (Murney) Harvey.

Siblings, James T. Harvey, and Kendra K. Whitfield.

Survivors, Spouse Alan L. Thornton 

Son, Rufus B. Nelson of Medina 

Daughter, Jennifer M. Nelson of Concord, 

6 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren.

Step- children, Charles, Bridgette, Alan and Corey.

In respect of Yolanda's wishes, there will be no public services. A private memorial for family and friends will take place at a later date.

Jozica L. Grizancic

Jozica passed away in her home on Wednesday, January 15th surrounded by her family. She was the beloved mom of Liljana Innes (David), Dan Grizancic (Bonnie), Tatjana Grizancic, and Suzi Grizancic (Nathan), and beloved nona of Abigail Grizancic. She will be remembered by her friends and family for her sense of humor, incredible work ethic, strength and kindness, and for the sweet way she let everyone call her by whatever was easiest for them whether it be Jozica, Jo, Josephine, Mrs. G, Botra, Nona, or Mom.

Jozica brought her Slovenian traditions with her when she immigrated to the US including a lifelong love of plants and animals learned from her father on their family farm, her traditional Slovenian cooking, and her love of polka music. She was very proud of the fact that she passed her US citizenship test on the first try even though education in her home country was limited due to WWII.  She was an avid gardener and a wonderful cook. She passed down many of her recipes to Abigail who is helping to carry forward our family traditions.

Jozica spent over 25 years working as the caretaker of the AMLA, a large property in Leroy, Ohio, which is now Lake Metroparks Hidden Lake. While there she made many friends in the community and used all of her skills to make a beautiful country retreat for the members.

Jozica will be remembered with love and respect by her family, friends, and neighbors. If you have any memories you'd like to share, please send them to jozicagrizancic@gmail.com.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you contribute in Jozica’s name to the Hospice of the Western Reserve, 34900 Chardon Rd., Chagrin North Bldg. Suite 105, Willoughby Hills, OH 44094. The family is eternally grateful for the outstanding care and compassion shown by her entire team, which was instrumental in helping her achieve her wishes to spend her final days in her home surrounded by her family, friends, and beautiful flowers. A private memorial service will be held at a later date.

Barbara A. Stewart

Barbara A. Stewart (nee Francis) age 69. Passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on January 12, 2020. Beloved wife of James for 25 years. Loving mother of Andy V. Kittelberger (deceased), and Tina M. Kittelberger. Grandmother of Felicia Kittelberger Alyssa Kittelberger, Andrew Kowalski, and Brandon.  Cherished sister of Andy Francis Jr. (deceased), Joanne (George) Worch, Shirley Francis, Judy Francis, Sandy Szoka (deceased), Bonnie (Jack) Burbol, Barbara was a loving Aunt to Andy Francis (Carmen),  Jason Francis (Tracy), Jeffrey Francis, and John Burbol (Laura), Amora Upton (Darrell), Sara Burbol (Jon), Vanessa Weiser (Jason) and Lily Crow (Nick).

A private celebration of life will be held on Sunday, January 19, 2020.

Billy H. West II

January 11, 1961 - January 13, 2020

Billy H. West II age 59, of Mentor formally from Eastlake, passed away peacefully on January 13, 2020, with surrounding family. Survivors are wife Isabel West (nee Benjamin) of 31 years, son Billy H. West III, beloved granddaughter Amiya Star Bitzer, beloved grandsons Billy H. West IV and Benjavanni Michael West, sister Tina West, brother-in-law of many and uncle to many nieces and nephews.

Preceded in death by mother Margaret June West (nee Jarell), father Billy H. West, brothers Danny J. McGhee and Jay P. West.

Bill will be truly missed.

Services:  Saturday, January 25, 2020 from 4:30-7p.m. at Prince of Peace 7193 Reynolds Rd. Mentor, OH 44060

Kip Nicholas Barker

Kip Nicholas Barker, born May 24, 1991 in Ashtabula, Ohio, to the late Clifford Earl “Kip” Barker & Carrie Lynn Marshall, passed away at age 28 due to complications of asthmatic respiratory arrest on January 14th, 2020 at 4:20pm while admitted to Lake West Medical Center in Willoughby, Ohio.  He was preceded in death by his sister Vickie, his uncles Chuck, Clark & KK, his Aunt Kim, his father Kip, his grandparents Chet & Beverly and great grandparents Guy & Mary Ann. 

Kip was a resident of Eastlake, Ohio and a Transportation Dispatcher at Signature Health in Mentor, Ohio.  He had a zest for life, despite having a rougher life than most. He enjoyed the little things and never took anything for granted; especially when it came to spending time with the people he loved the most.  Kip was a comedian and a huge NASCAR fan, with a love of playing video games, and had a deep passion for music which included playing guitar. He was a kind soul with a heart of gold and will be greatly missed by everyone who knew him.

Kip is survived by his girlfriend Tiffani & their fur baby Raven, his sister Jessica & her husband Albert, best friends/non biological brothers Josh & Wes, his nephew Albie and three nieces; Marissa, Ashley & Kristin, several cousins and second cousins, three Aunts; Cathy (Kenny), Christine (Mike) & Judy (Keith), four uncles; Chip (Miranda), Curtis (Kris), Duke & Jody (Debbie); mother Carrie, and grandparents Al & Nada.

A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, January 19, 2020 from 2pm-6pm at the Fraternal Order of Eagles Club located at 37299 Euclid Ave in Willoughby, Ohio. Kip’s final arrangements were entrusted to Blessing Cremation Center, 9340 Pinecone Drive, in Mentor, Ohio. (440) 352-8100.

Randy C. Miller

Randy Carmichael Miller March 13, 1947- December 24, 2019

Randy C. Miller, our beloved brother, uncle, great-uncle, and friend passed away suddenly at his residence in Eastlake, Ohio. He is survived by his brother, Terry L. Miller (wife, Judith), his loving nieces Corrie Miller, Brienne Miller, and Robyn Cosic. In addition, Randy found great joy in being the Great- Unkie to Harper Mae, Cecily Judth, Jack B., and Iris Leigh. Randy was preceded in death by his mother, Mae Carmichael Goeringer, father, Leigh Miller, step-father, Anton Goeringer, and sister, Nancy Leigh Miller. Randy was born in East Cleveland and grew up in Willoughby, Euclid, and Middlefield. He graduated from Cardinal High School in 1965 and from Case Western Reserve University in 1969. Randy spent his entire work career in the Restaurant/Catering business, an interest he developed while attending college. There will be a private memorial gathering for friends and family to be scheduled at a later date.

Lee Eric Butt

Lee Eric Butt, 51, passed away unexpectedly on 12/29/2019 at his residence in Chardon Ohio. Born in Uniontown Pa, he was raised in Chardon and graduated from Chardon High Scool in 1986. He then joined the US Navy and was a Hull Technician on the USS Defender in Charleston SC and then in Virginia. He became a preacher after his Navy service ended in 1991. He attended school in Tennessee and preached for 25 years for the Church of Christ in Texas. He was also a Volunteer Fireman for about 4 years in his hometown in Texas. He is survived be his 3 children and 1 granddaughter that he loved very much and was very proud of, Jessica (Brian) Burton and granddaughter Myra, Emily Butt, and Zachary Butt all in Abilene Texas. He is also survived by his mother, Mary from Chardon, and his brother Lon (Theresa) from Madison Ohio. He was preceded in death by his father Ted Butt from Chardon in 2008. A Private Memorial Service will be held in Abilene, Texas for his family.

Jason L. Yoho

Jason L. Yoho has been called for Heavenly duty at age 52, having lost the battle with cancer. He was born October 22, 1967 in Bellaire, Ohio. He passed away December 28, 2019 at his home with his family in Painesville, Ohio. He was an Army Reserve Veteran who served during Desert Storm/Shield. Preceding him in death were his parents Phyllis A. Yoho (Brown) and Gary L Yoho. He is survived by his wife Kathryn A. Yoho (Whalen), daughter Melissa Yoho, and brother Kelly Joe Yoho. The family will be having a Funeral Service at First Church Congregational, 22 Liberty Street, Painesville, Ohio 44077 on Saturday January 4, 2020 at 1:00 p.m. A lunch will be provided by the Women’s Fellowship of First Church. Jason’s ashes will be interred at Emma Grove Cemetery, State Route 536, Hannibal, Ohio at a later date. An Honor Guard will conduct a Military Graveside Service. In lieu of flowers please donate to the hospice of the Western Reserve. 17876 St. Claire Ave. Cleveland OH 44110

Wilma L. Smith

Wilma L. Smith age 92 of  Eastlake formerly of Southington. Passed away peacefully December 22, 2019 at her home in Eastlake with her family by her side.  She was born March 27, 1927 in Warren, Ohio. Wilma was the daughter of Mildred and Daniel Elston. She retired from Packard Electric in 1977, and then continued to care for and support her family through her remaining days on earth. Wilma was preceded in death by her husband of 68 years, Leonard L. Smith, as well as three brothers and one sister. Survivors include her daughter and son-in-law, Linda and Ted Vannelli of Kirtland, three grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, and a brother Jack Elston of Southington. Arrangements were entrusted to Blessing Cremation Center.

Virginia A. Gaudin

Virginia "Ginny" Gaudin passed away on December 25, 2019. Born on July 22, 1929, Virginia worked at Republic Steel and Euclid National Bank before retiring to help raise her grandchildren. She leaves behind her daughter, Lynn Cornacchione, granddaughter, Christina Andow (Bryan), grandson Cody Cornacchione (Rachael) and great-grandsons Blake and Collin. She was preceeded in death by the love of her life, Paul. The family is hosting a Celebration of Life at Lakefront Lodge, 30525 Lakeshore Boulevard, Willowick on Sunday, January 12 from 1:00-5:00. 

Frank J. Crnko

Frank J. Crnko, age 89 of Painesville. Passed away Monday, December 23, 2019 with his family at his side. He was born to the late Joseph and Mary (Frankovich) Crnko on July 20, 1930 in Lorain, OH. He proudly served his country for 20 years in the U.S. Army as Sergeant First Class, and Chief of Electronics. His many tours included Korea, Okinawa, California, Texas, St. Louis, and lastly the Nike Site in Painesville. While stationed for 5 years in Germany he met his future wife Olga, the best thing that ever happened to him. "Sarge" was an avid fisherman, meat master, gardener, wood craftsman, an all around tradesman, and a wonderful polka dancer. After he retired from the military, he worked at Lubrizol in instrumentation until his retirement in 1986. Survivors include his son Helmut (Hun Chu) of Madison, Alabama, daughters Carola (Mox Eggert) of Painesville, Diana (Luigi) DiCarlo of Concord, son-in-law Ed Castania of Newport News, VA. Grandchildren Scott Crnko of Salt Lake City, UT, Kelly (Geoff) Sneed of Henderson, NV, Frank Crnko of Opelika, AL. Four great-grandchildren Abigail and Fletcher Crnko, Reagan and Jackson Sneed, sister Josephine Jankowski. Sister-in-law Norma Crnko, and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his loving wife Olga, daughter Ursula, brothers Joseph and Tom Crnko, sister Mary Goeller, and sister-in-law Ann Crnko. Also shadowed by many beloved granddogs. At Frank's request, there will be no funeral service. A Private Celebration will be held at a later date.

Guerin L. Avery "Gary"

April 9, 1940 - December 13, 2019

Guerin “Gary” Avery, 79, was born in Cleveland, Ohio on April 9, 1940, the younger of two children born to Gerald and Barbara Avery.  A top graduate of Cathedral Latin high school, a talented musician and debater with a formidable intellect, he earned his undergraduate degree from John Carroll University and a law degree from Cleveland Marshall. Gary built two successful businesses during his lifetime.  In Act One in his twenties and thirties, he juggled private law practice while acting as Municipal Law Director (University Heights and Olmstead Falls).  Act Two was purely entrepreneurial.   In 1986, he founded Law Advisory Group, the platform from which he created visionary content covering the challenges faced by school and law enforcement personnel related to firearms, gangs, drugs, and special education laws.  He also authored the book “Safety, Order, and Discipline in American Schools: Defining the Authority of Educators and Law Enforcement Personnel”.  For nearly 30 years, Gary and his wife Patricia Holicek (nee Corsaro) traversed the country as business and life partners.  Generations of students, teachers, administrators and allied professionals applied his practical wisdom that demystified legalities while honing in on practicalities (“If you know there’s a gun in the locker, but you lack probable cause for a search, go get the gun! The worst thing that happens is that kids are safe but you can’t prosecute.”).  Gary ensured that his students always knew that, and how, they could act decisively without risking personal liability. Kind and empathetic, a gifted storyteller with a bottomless well of humor and a booming voice, Gary left an indelible impression on those he met.  He mentored many who went on to successful careers themselves.  After more than a decade of health challenges, Gary passed into the next life on December 13, 2019.  His children knew that no matter what, throughout his life, Gary consistently did the best he could and he forever yearned to foster connections with those for whom he cared a great deal. Gary is survived by his four children from his first marriage (with Catherine “Kitty” Busher, nee Callinan) and a host of step-children/grandchildren from his second marriage to Patricia Holicek. 

Christian memorial service will be held Thursday, December 19, 2019 at 11:00 a.m. at Body of Christ Community Church, 38057 Erie Rd. Willoughby, OH 44094.

Contributions may be made in memory of Gary to Hospice of the Western Reserve, P.O. Box 72101 Cleveland, OH 44192.

Scott Robert Wall Jr.

Scott R. Wall Jr., age 22 of Willowick. Passed away December 13, 2019. Loving son of the late Scott Wall Sr. (father), and survived by mother Angie Wall (John). Scott is survived by his brother Jacob, sister Chelsey, Heather, Miranda, and Brittany. Cherished grandson of the late Nancy (Brad) Durst, and Ron (Frances) Wall.  Scott was loved by 10 Aunts, 9 Uncles, 27 cousins, and 22 second cousins. He was a loving uncle of Juliettta and Austin. Scott was loved by many family, friends, and anybody he encountered. He was a loving, genuine, caring old soul with a heart of gold. He was very giving and sensitive to the needs of others. He was surely the life of the party, and a "Shit Head." Scott was a GQ that loved his family unconditionally, and was full of adventure. A Celebration of Scott's Life will be held Sunday December 29, 2019 at 1:00P.M. at the VFW Post 1500, 38295 Pelton Road, Willoughby, OH 44094.