OBITUARIES
A Remembrance of Loved Ones
Edward Joseph Duvall
Edward Joseph Duvall was born on November 22, 1934 in Washington, D.C. and died on May 16, 2020 in Richmond Heights, Ohio where he and his wife Vivian had lived for 37 years and raised two sons, Zachary and Zane.
Ed was one of the world’s first computer programmers. He was on the team that created the nation’s air traffic control system. In later years he turned to photography. He and Vivian were a freelance photo-journalist team for D.C.-area newspapers and magazines, covering stories for UPI and AP including the first flight of the Concorde SST to Dulles Airport and Queen Elizabeth’s visit to Washington during the bicentennial.
After moving to Vivian’s hometown of Cleveland in 1983, Ed and Vivian established Goodman Duvall Communications, Inc. a small but successful media relations business.
Ed loved his home and the Cleveland sports teams, a passion he shared with Zane. He was Zach and Zane’s biggest fan in Little League. Ed also loved classical music, the Beatles, the writings of Jack London and James Michener, dogs, cats, babies, and nature, and enjoyed walks with Vivian at North Chagrin Metroparks, bowling in a men’s league as well as in a family league with Vivian and the boys. At one time he loved biking, especially up and down steep hills in Richmond Heights with Zach.
Ed was a devoted husband and father, supporting Vivian in her career and raising the boys to become good men .In the last seven years of his life Ed had a new love: Zane’s son Kaysen, his “buddy.”
Ed will always be loved and remembered by his brother Michael Duvall and his memory will always be a blessing for his wife Vivian, sons Zachary, Zane, and Kirk Duvall, daughter Leigh Duvall Parks, granddaughters Delaney Parks, and Shannon Duvall, and grandsons Kaysen Brown, David Duvall, Patrick Duvall, and Joseph Duvall.
Marjorie "Marge" Giesel
Marjorie “Marge” Giesel (nee Griffiths), age 86 passed away peacefully on May 15, 2020.
Marge was born on June 10, 1933 in Manchester England and resided there until she met the love of her life, Bob, in 1953. Bob was in the US Air Force stationed over in England when he met Marge. He asked her to dance and the rest is history. They had a short courtship and he asked for her hand in marriage on July 3, 1954. Marge then came to the United States and lived the majority of her years in Wickliffe Ohio. They were married for 51 years until Bob’s passing in 2005.
She was a great mother to Pamela (Todd) of Concord Township and Stephen of Parma. She was an amazing Nana to “her boys” Michael and Andrew Hetrick. She spent many of days taking the boys to the park to feed the ducks, many trips to the mall to buy Thomas the Tank Engine Trains and “stirring the lumps out of their ice cream” for them when they were little. She also leaves behind her best friend Ivy Hogan of Las Vegas NV. The two shared a bond like no other over their 60+ years of friendship that started in Manchester England. She also leaves behind 3 nephews and a sister in law in England and lots of “family” in Ohio.
Marge is proceeded in death by her parents Lavinia and William Griffiths and her brothers Donald and Roy Griffiths.
Marge enjoyed bingo, ceramics, reading and crossword puzzles. She was a good storyteller about her life. She loved to travel to Las Vegas and England.
A celebration of life and burial will be held at a later date.
Donations would be greatly appreciated to Crossroads Hospice who were instrumental in making sure Marge was comfortable during her passing. Donations can be made in her name and sent to 9755 Rockside Road, Suite 270, Valley View OH. 44125.
Joseph L. Williams
Joseph L. Williams passed away on May 11, 2020. Beloved husband of Pamela Williams (nee Baughman), parents Josephine LiPuma Williams (deceased) and Lawrence G. Williams (deceased). Survived by siblings Thomas C. Militano, M.D. (wife Karen), M. Bryan Williams (wife Rita), Catherine W. Smith (husband Thomas deceased),Lauren A. Roth (husband Don), Ronald S. Williams (companion Donna), and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Joe will be truly missed by his family and friends. A memorial will be held at a later time. The date and time will be announced when known.
Corey T Leihenseder
Corey T Leihenseder, age 35, of Mentor, passed away unexpectedly on May 11, 2020 at home. He was born July 29, 1984.
He was loving son of Lori Nakashige Burns and Thomas B. Leihenseder(deceased) and brother to Thomas A. Leihenseder (deceased).
Corey also leaves behind his beloved dog Maggie, and special friend Amber.
Corey enjoyed watching all sports, especially events involving Cleveland sports teams. He also enjoyed watching ESPN and movies and wearing all things Nike and Jordan.
He was so proud of the personal accomplishment he had achieved in the end.
A celebration of life will be announced at a later date. He will be interred at Knollwood Cemetery.
Kevin Yanosko
Kevin Yanosko, age 59 of Mentor, Ohio, passed away on May 10, 2020. Beloved husband of 30 years to Denise Yanosko (nee Eiermann); father of Lauren and Benjamin Yanosko; brother to Cecilia (Pete) Catanese, Juanita Zorich, Michele (Tom) Ratcliffe, Jerry (Joan) Yanosko, Mark Yanosko, Peter (Carolyn) Yanosko, and Clifford (Michele) Yanosko; brother in-law, uncle, and great-uncle to many. He is preceded in death by his parents, Raymond and Anne Yanosko.
Kevin was a proud graduate of St. Joesph’s High School, class of ’79. He was an avid Cleveland sports fan all of his life. He enjoyed attending Mentor High School football and basketball games to cheer on the Cardinals. Kevin worked as a baker at Buettner’s Bakery for twenty years before working at Process Technology. Kevin will always be remembered for his boisterous laugh and his sense of humor. Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
William T. McDonnold
William (Bill) T. McDonnold age 69, of Eastlake, Ohio. Passed away on May 6, 2020. He was one of three children born to Benjamin and Marjorie (Thomas) McDonnold (both deceased). He is survived by his loving wife of twenty seven years Joyce (Katz-Olson). Daughter Heather McDonnold, Sheena McDonnold Herne, Stepson Lawrence E. Sellers III, and grandsons Frank and Gabe McDonnold. Sisters Linda (Michael) Day, and Janet (Alexander III) Wysocki. Sister-in-laws Robin Olson, Janet (Mark) Manley. Nieces Jennifer (Chris) McCrone, Candice (Sean) King, and Lara Cohen. Nephews Michael (Tania) Day, Alexander IV (Kimberly) Wysocki, and Bret and Michael Manley. Eleven great nieces and nephews, and his faithful dog "Jake." Bill was a 1968 graduate of Eastlake North High School, and was senior class vice president. He then graduated from Bowling Green University in 1972 with a Bachelors degree in teaching. He was a teacher in the Cleveland Metropolitan School District until his retirement in 2011. Bill and Joyce enjoyed many hours riding their Harley Davidson with the riders of American Legion Post 678, and many hours of enjoyment with the folks at VFW Post 3863 in which Bill was an Auxiliary Member. Bill also enjoyed watching his great nephews Conor and Brendan McCrone wrestle at Lake Catholic High School. A Celebration of Bill's life will be held at a later date. The family requests any contributions be made in Bill's name to the Hospice of the Western Reserve, 17876 St. Clair Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio 44110.
Gary J. Kondelik
Gary J. Kondelik of Mentor, OH, passed away on May 6, 2020, due to natural causes. Gary was born on August 14, 1946, in East Cleveland to the late Clarence and Rose (Pelcarsky) Kondelik. Gary was the beloved father of Sheryl (John) Forest of Avon Lake, OH, and Michael (Erin) Kondelik of Mentor, OH. Loving grandfather of Kristin and Stephen Forest and Lucas and Jordan Kondelik. Brother of James (Loretta) Kondelik of Medina, OH. Gary was a graduate of Warrensville Heights High School (1964), a veteran of the United States Marine Corp, and a 50-year member of Pipefitters Local Union 120. Gary loved visiting local nature parks with his dogs and was an avid fan of Cleveland sports teams. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Gary’s memory to the Lake Humane Society http://www.lakehumane.org. Arrangements have been entrusted to Blessings Cremation Center in Mentor, OH. A private Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. He will be dearly missed but never forgotten.
Riccardo LaRiccia
Riccardo LaRiccia, age 53, passed on May 3, 2020. Beloved son of Richard and Marilynn (Toth) LaRiccia. Dearest father of Elena Casias. Brother of Debbie Giffin (Ken), Annamarie Wisnieski, and Angelo LaRiccia. Loving fiance of twenty years, Tina Marflak. Grandfather of two, uncle, and cousin of many.
Ricky will always be remembered for his love for all sports, and many many friends throughout his time growing up in the “proud neighborhood” of Collinwood.
A Celebration of Life will be determined at a later date. The LaRiccia family is overwhelmed with the love and support from all that knew and loved Ricky.
We would like to sincerely thank everyone for reaching out during this difficult time.
Christine M. Downey
Christine “Tina” M. Downey, 72, of Mentor-on-the-Lake, passed away Sunday, May 3, 2020.
She was born June 9, 1947 in Dayton, KY, the daughter of the late Albert and Ann (Madden) Carson. She married her late husband, Dennis P. Downey, in 1966. During their 53 years of marriage, they lived in Washington D.C., Pennsylvania, and New York before settling down permanently in Northeastern Ohio for the last 48 years.
Christine lit up every room she entered and had a friend wherever she went. This was proven by her countless friends in multiple states, especially from her past places of employment. She was known for her sense of humor, infectious laugh, and generous heart. She held her family extremely close to her heart, and believed that family extended beyond a bloodline. She cherished the moments when everyone could come together for family events, and was warm and inviting to even the most extended members.
Christine was retired from JC Penney, and worked for Lowes Home Improvement for the last 15 years. She was an avid jewelry maker, and would give you the necklace she was wearing if you simply mentioned that you liked it. She loved reading and was an enthusiastic member of her book club, and was once an instrumental part of her church, Celebration Lutheran..
Christine was a loving mother to Tammy (Rick Gillenwater); grandmother to Matt (Kelli); step-grandmother to Ashley Gillenwater (Alex Smith), Christopher Gillenwater (Autumn Joles), and Halle Gillenwater; sister to Marina Carson Eger (Todd); and brothers, Christopher “Kit” Carson (Joan) and Albert Carson, Jr. (Carol). She adored her 8 great grandchildren, and was excited to greet the 9th this coming August. She will be missed by her many nieces and nephews who she loved dearly, most notably, retired SSG Kristian Eger, who was very special to her.
She was preceded in death by her husband; parents; and sisters, Daphne Moore (Jerry) and Stephanie Michels.
The family requests that, in place of flowers, memorials be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.
The family will be holding a celebration of life later in the summer.
Denny Javins
Denny Javins passed away peacefully on May 1, 2020 just days shy of his 71st birthday. Although everyone who knew him could agree that we wanted him around for longer, he lived a full life. Denny was a loving husband and father to five children, and ten grandchildren that he would do anything for. He had a gentle soul, a big heart, and the best sense of humor. He kept his family laughing until his final moments. In his early years he loved to work out, and was a semi pro bowler. He also loved to work with his hands, which helped to build the beautiful home he and his wife Mary lived in, and raised their children for thirty six years. Later in life, he developed a love for the little things like gardening, and reading. He will be missed by so many, as he made such a profound impact on countless people in his life. Denny brought so much light to his family’s lives. We will be forever thankful for his unconditional love, his compassion, his hard work, and his jokes that never failed to make everyone laugh. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Denny to: Fairport Harbor Library, 335 Vine St. Fairport Harbor, OH 44077.
Tereasa Kirkpatrick
Tereasa Kirkpatrick, (nee Henderson) age 54 , passed away Friday morning, April 24th after a brief decline being diagnosed with stage IV lung cancer in January of this year. She died at home with her family, as was her wish. She joins her mother who recently also passed.
Born May 10, 1965 to Faye and Bill Potts, she grew up in Painesville, Ohio and raised her children in Eastlake, Ohio. For the past 15 years she worked with the volunteers and recipients of the Lake County on Aging Meals on Wheels program as the Site Director in Mentor . They all meant the world to her.
Tereasa’s love for her husband and family knew no bounds. She had awesome artistic talent, a love for crafting and she generously shared her gifts. Her compassion earned her many friends throughout her life.
She is survived by her loving husband, Shawn; her children Jessica and Steven Malave and Matthew Kirkpatrick, and step son, Shawn (Jackie) Kirkpatrick; her father, Bill Potts; her sister, Annette Potts; her brother, Huey Henderson; her grandchildren, Abigail , Mercedes, Celeste, Adelina and Bethany, and many other family members and friends.
There will be a Celebration of Life event scheduled in the near future when it is safe for all to gather together and truly celebrate her life.
Joseph Wayne Brooks
Joseph Wayne Brooks, 71, of Mentor passed away after a lengthy battle with cancer on April 23, 2020 at his home, with his wife Linda by his side.
Joe was born May 2, 1949 to Lacy & William W. Brooks (deceased) in Murrayville, OH.
Beloved husband to Linda Stifler Brooks, for 44 years. He was a loving stepfather to Jim Stifler (Karin), Tom Stifler (Linda) and Mike Stifler (Meg), doting grandfather to Nate, Colin, Ryan and Paul Stifler. He was adored by his sister Sandy and brother Ray. He had a stepbrother, Ronnie Eggers, that was killed in Vietnam.
Joe was a Marine and a Vietnam veteran. He was a Plt. Sargent in India Company, 3rd Battalion, 4th Marines (1968-1969). He was past Commandant and member of Detachment 555 at Gunny Hall in Mentor.
Joe attended North High School in Eastlake (Class of '67) and Hiram College where he studied political science. For a short time he was a Willoughby Hills police officer. His history background led to an intense love for our country. As a youth, he was an Eagle Scout.
Joe was instrumental in the building of the Armed Forces Memorial at the old North High School, as well as the newly built North High School. Joe was an independent financial planner and retired in 2016.
Joe was known for his kindness and loyalty to his friends. He loved playing golf and organizing golf outings for charities. He enjoyed collecting art and gardening. He was an avid reader and an author. He was a die hard Cleveland Indians fan. He was a perfectionist in all his hobbies and in life; he loved his Diet Coke (only glass bottles) and his Marlboros!
With the current COVID-19 public gathering restrictions, a private family funeral service will be held. Once current restrictions are lifted, a Celebration of Life will be scheduled. Please keep the family in prayers.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions in his memory to Hospice of the Western Reserve.
Gerald E. Snook
Gerald E. Snook
October 13, 1927 - April 22, 2020
Gerald E. Snook, age 92, died Wednesday, April 22, 2020. Jerry is survived by his son Thomas (Debbie) Snook of Geneva, daughter Lori (Lonnie) Johnston of Rock Creek, and Vicki (Dan) Wilson of Mentor, 9 grandchildren, and 9 great-grandchildren.
Jerry was born in Middletown, Ohio, the oldest son of Chester and Dolly Snook. He joined the Army in 1945 and served our country in France and Germany during World War II. Graduating from Ohio State with a degree in journalism in 1953, Jerry worked for the News-Herald, joining the Cleveland Plain Dealer in 1955. He retired from the Plain Dealer in 1994 following 39 years of service.
He was a proud member of the American Legion, VFW, DAV, National Order of Trench Rats, and the Society of the 1st Infantry Division. Jerry was actively involved in the volunteer program at the C.W. Bill Young Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Bay Pines, Florida.
Jerry enjoyed many years of retirement, returning to Ohio to be near his family in the later years of life. He studied his family genealogy, was an avid fisherman, and a lifelong fan of the Browns, Cavs, and Ohio State football.
A private interment will be conducted with military honors at the Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery at a later date.
Anne H. Kiuchi
July 6, 1935 - April 4, 2020
Beloved wife of Jack; mother of Lisa; grandmother of Erica Habart and Tim Sesko; daughter of John Hnanicek and Mae Novak (both deceased); sister of John Hnanicek (Stella) (both deceased); aunt of Anita Cook (Tom), Brenda Furiga (Paul) and John Hnanicek.
A memorial service will be held on a later date.
Charles M. "Chuck" Sloan
Charles M. "Chuck" Sloan
Chuck Sloan, 70, of Willoughby, passed away Monday, April 20, 2020 at University Hospitals Seidman Cancer Center in Cleveland. Born June 29, 1949 Chuck had lived in Willoughby most of his life. Chuck served in the Army from 1967-1970.
He loved to ride his Harleys around town with Paul Chapman and the Two-Wheel Tuesday group, enjoyed fishing, playing guitar with Jim Burkhart, cheering on the Cleveland Browns, Indians, and Cavaliers, and hanging out with the neighbors.
Chuck leaves behind his wife of 38 years, Pamela and son Guy; sister Jackie (Merl) Wooley; and many nieces and nephews including Ralph Sloan.
Chuck was preceded in death by his parents Guy and Beatrice Sloan; brothers Carl and Billy; sisters Betty Hochberg and Lila Hyatt.
There will be no visitation due to COVID 19 Pandemic. A Celebration of Life will be at a later date.
Patrick Olm
Patrick Olm age 65, passed away on April 16, 2020 peacefully, after a year battle with cancer. He loved to fish and boat often, and was referred to as “Capt. Pat,” and loved spending time with his granddaughter. He is survived by his wife, Christine, daughters Melissa and Danielle, sisters Robin(Jim) DeMaria Celeste (Mike) Metz, Grandaughter Aria. He was proceeded in death by his parents Howard and Margret Olm. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
Lawrence J. Ilenich
Lawrence J. Ilenich passed on April 9, 2020 at David Simpson Hospice House. He is survived by: four children: Dawn, Eric, Bradley, and Jessie; three grandchildren: Dylan, Tristan, and Trinity; brothers: Michael, and Timothy; sister: Kathryn. He is preceded in death by: parents John & Loretta, and brother David. Service information will be given at a later date, and will be posted to the website.
Sam R. Culotta
Sam R. Culotta
March 8, 1942 - April 7, 2020
Sam R. Culotta, age 78 of Mentor. Beloved father of Robert L. Culotta and Christopher J. Culotta; son of the late Sam and Angelina Culotta; brother of Gary Culotta and brother to the late Anthony Culotta and Vincent Culotta; cherished uncle of many. Sam worked as a shoe repairman and also in sales in the greeting card industry. He was a member of the US Army Reserve. In his free time he enjoyed reading, spending time with friends and family and ice skating with his son Christopher and other special needs children.
A Celebration of Life Service at Knollwood Cemetery, Mayfield Heights will be held at a later date and will be posted to the website.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Sam to:
The Deepwood Foundation
8121 Deepwood Blvd.
Mentor, OH 44060
Marybeth Kendig
Marybeth Kendig (nee: Kunkel) of Mentor, Ohio November 16, 1960 – April 4, 2020
Marybeth (age 59) passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her family on April 4, 2020.
Born on November 16, 1960 in Youngstown, Ohio she grew up in McDonald, Ohio and was a good friend to all that knew her. Her fondest memories growing up were of playing softball, swim club, and the many Kunkel parties and weddings throughout the years. Marybeth met her future husband Layne in 1983 and they were married in 1985. They were blessed with three amazing children, Ashley, Alexa, and Brandon and later with two grandchildren Julian and Jaxon. In 1992 they moved to the cul-de-sac in Mentor where she met the people that would become like a second family. Some of her fondest memories were spending time with her “Cul-de-Sac” kids.
She loved to decorate and travel. She insisted on creating and making all of the flower arrangements for her daughters wedding showers, weddings and baby showers to a level of perfection matched by few. She traveled many times to Disney World, her happiest place on earth, and was able to take her children and grandchildren there several times over the last three years. She loved to shop and even found a TJ Maxx on a trip to London. She was able to travel to London, Paris, New York City and Hilton Head. She enjoyed spending time with her children and grandchildren more than anything else. She loved family gatherings and family meant everything to her.
Marybeth was the wife of Layne E. Kendig Jr.; loving mother of Ashley E. (Michael) Burtscher, Alexa C. (Matthew) Krumpak, and Brandon D. Kendig; beloved daughter of Joseph F. and Carole Kunkel (deceased); sister of Christine (Paul) Monroe; Grandmother of Julian Burtscher & Jaxon Krumpak. She also leaves her brother-in-law Kurt Kendig and sister-in-law Michelle Stufflebeam and many loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
As Marybeth wished there will be a private celebration at a later date in lieu of a funeral.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Marybeth to:
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
501 St. Jude Place
Memphis, TN 38105
https://www.stjude.org/donate/donate-to-st-jude.html
1-800-822-6344
Hospice of the Western Reserve, Inc.,
17876 St. Clair Avenue
Cleveland, OH 44110-2602
(216)383-2222