Scott J. Pruter

Scott J Pruter, 53 of Fairport Harbor, passed away on October 16, 2021. He was preceded in death by his parents Ronald and Beverly Pruter, and his grandparents John and Emma Korondan.

Father of Nicholas Pruter. Cherished brother of  Terri Kowalski (Dave), Lori Shuleva (John), and nieces Ashley Billett (Anthony), Courtney Kowalski.

Scott leaves behind an uncle, cousins, friends and colleagues, he will be dearly missed.

He was born in Parma in 1968, Scott was a lifelong Cleveland area resident. Scott was a graduate of Tiffin University with a degree in Criminal Justice.  He was a former member of Local 860 Laborer Union in Cleveland,  a former Lake County Sheriff Deputy, and also served on the SWAT Team. In 1998, while a deputy, Scott earned the Distinguished Service Medal. He loved Notre Dame Football and Cleveland Indians Baseball.

A Memorial Service will be held at a later date.

Mary Ellen Benchina

Mary Ellen Benchina (nee Yates) of Mentor,Ohio. Age 84, passed away Friday, October 15, 2021 peacefully at home surrounded by her family.  Cherished daughter of the late Allan Yates and Mary G. (nee Molnar), and her husband John F. Benchina. Devoted mother of John (Athena) Benchina,  Diane (Ross) Dunn,  Bruce (Jeannette) Benchina,  Brad (Debbie) Benchina;

Loving grandmother of seven Grandchildren: Amy, John, Nirvana, Brian (Gena), Ellen, Melissa, Michael (Jennifer) ; three Great-grandmother of   Lucas, Christian, Aiden, Aunt of many nieces and nephews. Cherished sister of David A. Yates.

Ellen was a former Graduate of the 1954 Class of Notre Dame Academy, and The Class of 1957 at St. Johns Hospital School of Nursing. She was a Retired RN, CRNI, OCN: Formerly, for Euclid General, and Lake Hospital Systems.

There will be no public visitation or funeral services. A Private burial will be in Mentor Cemetery, Mentor, Ohio with immediate family.

Robert C. Betz

July 28, 1928 - October 14, 2021

Robert C. Betz age 93 of Mentor, passed away on October 14, 2021. He was born in Chicago, Illinois on July 28, 1928. Bob served 20 yrs. in the Coast Guard and 20 yrs. for the U.S. Post Office in Painesville, Willowick, and in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Robert is survived by his loving wife, Beverly  “Sue” of 61 years; his children R. Michael (Cathy), Lyn  Bishop (Robert), Kelly Lachner, Lee Flegel (Chris), and James (Melissa); grandfather of Robert and Taylor Bishop, Timothy Lachner, Kasey Goulet (Sam), Christine Foster, Stephanie Jessup (Jon), and Katie and Emily Betz; great-grandfather of Jacob, Jenna, Julia, and Joanna Goulet, Finn Foster, and Haley Bishop; He is preceded in death by his parents Erwin and Rose Betz and brother James Edward Betz.

Private services will be held for family only.

Michael A. Santilla

Michael A. Santilla age 60, of Perry, passed away with both of his daughters by his side on October 9, 2021. Cherished son of Darlene, and (Michael Santilla deceased).

Loving father of Carissa Santilla (Devon Falkner) of Willowick, and ReAnn Santilla of Perry.

Devoted grandfather of Cameron Santilla-Shaffer, Tre'Von Falkner, De'Shawn Santilla, Zavian Santilla, DaMarion Falkner, and Zaria Falkner. 

Dear brother of Anthony (Jennifer) Santilla of Painesville Twp, Tina Middleton of Mentor, and Darlene Santilla of Madison. Michael enjoyed his roots growing up in a large Italian Family, and making homemade pasta sauce on Sunday. He enjoyed watching NASCAR, The Andy Griffith Show, and going on any vacations he could. He also loved to talk to his daughters daily and surprise his grandkids with pizza every month. Michael’s best moment of 2021 was watching ReAnn graduate High School, and start her first year at Kent State. He is at peace now, will be deeply missed by everyone, and will always live on in everyone’s heart.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later time for family and friends. Please check back on Blessing’s website. Donations may be made directly to the family, if you call our direct line we will assist you in making a donation. Arrangements by Blessing Cremation Center. 440-352-8100

Linda M. Yax

Linda M. Yax age 65, of Mentor on the Lake. Passed away on October 9, 2021. Loving daughter of Palmer and Dorothy Austin. Mother of Anthony Austin and Brian Yax. Cherished sister of Debra Hawkins, Diana Austin, Laura Cala (Michael deceased), Robert Austin, Raymond Austin (Donna), and Sandy Barnard (Jeff). Linda enjoyed spending time with her family and children. She enjoyed gardening, nature, classical music, playing games, gazing at the stars, cake decorating. She took great pleasure in working on her Family Tree. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at a later date.

SHIRLEY R. WOOD

Shirley R. Wood (née Coleman) 70, of Mentor Ohio, peacefully went to be with The Lord on October 7, 2021. Shirley was born November 30, 1950, in Mohawk, West Virginia. She lived in Willoughby most of her life. 

While raising three children, Mrs. Wood worked her way through night school at Lakeland Community College, and earned her CPA. She owned a successful accounting practice for many years and also worked at a downtown firm as a financial planner.  She enjoyed her work and continued to do so even through last tax season. She enjoyed crafting and needlework, reading, hiking, and writing her blog:  A Mountain Child.  She also wrote poetry and a column for a hometown newspaper. She loved her many pets, including several rabbits and her beloved cat Bella. 

She is survived by her daughters Shannon Anderson and Crystal Anderson; her brothers Larry (Tom) (Sharon) Coleman and John (Kim) Coleman; sisters Eva Higginbotham, Zelma (Charles) Mitchell and Kimberly (Robert) Jeremia; grandchildren Amanda (Erik) Shumney, Lauren Toth, Kaitlin Sahadi, and Matthew Anderson; and great grandchildren Hadley, Paxton, Oliver, Avalon, Ezra and Selah, along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, and beloved friends and clients.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband Dennis Wood, parents Pearl Katherine Gardner (née Mullins) and Farley Coleman, son Tate Anderson, infant son Travis, and great granddaughter Adalyn Lee.

The family will receive friends in a private memorial service at a later date. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions be made to Hospice of the Western Reserve or The ALS Association

Mark R. McGowan

Mark R. McGowan, beloved Father, Grandfather, and Vietnam veteran, passed away October 3, 2021 at the age of 72 in his home.

He was a devoted Father and Grandfather and enjoyed spending time with his family. Mark was very compassionate and had a big heart. He was always ready to help anyone in need.

Mark is survived by his daughter Diana Cleek, his son in law Anthony Cleek; Grandchildren Michael McGowan, Alea Cleek, Shiann Kinney, Karli McGowan, Samantha Cleek, Scott McGowan, Kyra McGowan, Lain Smith, and Ezra Smith; Great grandchildren Farrah Kinney, Aralynn McGowan, Paul Pigza, Jax McGowan, Brinley Pigza, Kali Tripodo, Theodore Andrews, and Anthony Pigza.

Mark is proceeded in death by his parents Francis and Marie McGowan, wife Sharon McGowan, daughter Christina McGowan, and son in law Justin Smith.

There will be private services held for immediate family at Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery at a later date.

EARL J. CAMPBELL

Earl J. Campbell, 88, of Perry, OH. Passed away on September 28, 2021. Earl proudly served his country as a member of The United States Navy, and was a Retired Carpenter. Devoted son of the late Della E. Campbell. Loving Father of Ronald, Donald, and Deborah Campbell. Grandfather of Cherie, Irma, Larissa, Christopher, Erik, Nathan, and Daniel. Great-grandfather of 20, and great-great grandchildren of 9. Cherished brother to Dayton (Nippy) Campbell, and Connie Campbell. A Celebration of Earl's life will be held at a later date. Please check back on Blessing's website. Please share a memory of Earl below.

Gary Lynn Ault

February 18, 1952 - September 20, 2021

Gary Lynn Ault “ A Good Man “ age 69, passed away on September 20, 2021.

He leaves behind his beloved family, wife Jennifer (nee Dunn) of 44 years, children David (Helen), Ellen Scanlon (Blake), and Timothy (Marla), five grandchildren; Nina, David, William, Hayden, and Kasey, and one great-grandchild; Ritter; brother John (Kate) and nephews Alex (Abby) and Stuart; brother and sister-in-law Tim and Elizabeth Dunn. He was preceded in death by his parents, Del and Lib Ault of Marion, Ohio. 

Gary was born February 18, 1952, in Marion, Ohio. His life’s journey took him down many paths. His high school band, The Peace Union won the State Battle of the Bands in 1971. He graduated with a BS in Manufacturing Engineering from Ohio University, moved to Cleveland Ohio to start a journey that took him to New York, Pennsylvania, Utah and eventually back to Ohio.  His family knows him as the Dad who could tell a joke and fix anything. The phone calls for advice continued long after his children had started their own families. He loved music, cars, football, and woodworking. After retirement his travels led him to Canada every year and then Jamaica, Honduras, and French Polynesia. He left his heart in Africa. He was transformed by the panoramic scenery, the people and the elephants.  

We miss him very much. 

In lieu of services, we ask that you find a good moment to share a Gary story with someone. 

Condolences may be shared at Blessing Cremation Center (blessingcremation.com/remembrance) or a Facebook page in Gary’s name: Gary Ault has been created if you would like to share a Gary memory online.

Those wishing to honor his life may make a contribution to either The Reteti Elephant Sanctuary    www.retetielephants.org or the Sarara Foundation at sarara.co/

Ricky Alan Bailey

Ricky Alan Bailey passed away peacefully on September 16, 2021. Ricky is preceded in death by his parents Ray and Mary (Wilson) Bailey. He leaves behind four children Bobbi, Eric, Nicholas , and Brynn Bailey. He is survived by an older sister Patsy Carol Amadii (Don), brother Ronald Gray Bailey (Beverly), and the late Michael Ray Bailey (wife Cheryl). Loving uncle to several nieces and nephews: Michael Bailey Jr., Jason, Jordan and Katie Bailey. Ricky was known as a hard worker to anyone who knew him. He started working in the muck fields as a child where he grew up in the Canton area. He went on to become a manager at a local restaurant where he was known as Beetle Bailey. Ricky ended his work career as an owner of a business that delivered buns to restaurants where he earned a new nick name- the bun man. Private Family Services will be held at a later date.

Christopher R. Temple

Christopher R. Temple age 55. Passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on September 15, 2021. He was born in Cleveland to the late Susan Jarger. He is survived by his loving wife, Sherry L. Jones and children Danielle Geer (Matt), Zackary Temple, Camryn Temple, and Matthew Temple. Grandchildren Jamison Temple, Rylan Stivanson, Brystol Stivanson, Wesley Geer, and Serenity Geer. He will be missed by many friends, and family. A Celebration of his life will be held on Sunday September 26th at the Kiwanis Lake Community Hall at 2:00 P.M.

Thomas A. Yates

We bid farewell to an honored veteran, Thomas A. Yates, who passed away on September 15, 2021, after courageously enduring Huntington’s Disease for the past decade. He was born on June 9, 1948, to Henry and Audrey (Ott) Yates in Cleveland, Ohio. Tom will forever be loved by all who knew him, yet most fondly revered by his immediate family; his wife Betsy Parke, his sons David and Brian (Tasha) Yates and their mother Kathy McPeak, and his stepsons Steven, Luke (Natalie), and Harley (Marcella) Parke. He is cherished as “Poppy” by Chapin, Oliver, and Abigail Yates, and forever adored as “Papa Tom” by Sylvia, Sophia, Cecelia, Lucy, and Max Parke. Tom was a quiet, kind and generous man whose gifts and knowledge touched many lives. He brought much beauty to the world during his 40 year career at The Holden Arboretum. He shared his vast knowledge of the natural world with many appreciative people. Tom helped others as a volunteer for: Boy Scouts of America, Meals on Wheels, Mentor Special Skaters, Lake Metro Parks, leading The Mentor Senior Center Hiking Club and rugged all day hikes for various organizations and as a multi gallon blood donor for the American Red Cross. Huntington’s Disease may have taken his body but his spirit lives on in his sons and grandchildren as well as in his passion for the natural world. Take a walk in nature and you will feel his spirit there. Tom’s family will hold a private family service in celebration of his life. To honor Tom’s memory please consider a donation to: The HDSA Northeast Ohio Chapter (for research) PO Box 14668 Cleveland, OH 44114 The Native Plant Society of Northeastern Ohio 6892 Highland Dr. Solon, OH 44139 Please offer condolences and your memories of Tom below on Blessing’s website.

Robert Joseph Dellarose

It is with deep sorrow and much love that the family announce Robert Joseph Dellarose, 80, passed away Monday, September 13, 2021.

Bob retired from Lincoln Electric Company after working 35 years as a tool designer. He was forever fixing almost anything and everything around the house as an amateur handyman, dabbled in winemaking and Koi ponds, loved cookbooks with pictures particularly from Italy, and had grand aspirations to do wood carving. He loved when the neighborhood dogs visited and enjoyed sunny days watching the wildlife at their home in Bonita Springs often remarking it was "another day in paradise". Neil Diamond played all the time in the house- Forever in Blue Jeans, Sweet Caroline - but his favorite was dancing with his wife to In the Still of the Night.

He is predeceased by his parents Albert and Anne Dellarose. Survivors include his loving wife of 58 years, Bonita Marchando Dellarose; daughters, Renee (David) Kimball, Kristi (Jason) Cowan; son, Craig (Christina) Dellarose; grandchildren, Tyler (Kelly) Kimball, Bryce Kimball, Rachael Cowan, Ryan Cowan, Sarah Cowan, and Christian Gallagher. He will also be missed by his cherished sister-in-laws, brother-in-laws, nieces, nephews and lifelong and devoted friends. 

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. The family requests those who wish to express sympathy to consider making a donation to the American Heart Association in Robert's name.

Amanda Lorene Hall

Amanda Lorene Hall passed away at age 45. She was born on September 5, 1976 in Cleveland, Ohio to Rosemary Hussing (Eller) and Ivan Hall, and entered into heaven on September 6, 2021. Amanda is survived by her beloved daughter Miranda Foster and grandson Aiden Huggins, as well as her siblings, Paula Chislow (Mark Chislow), Brenda Needs(Randy Needs), Carl Hussing. Loving Aunt of her nieces and nephew James Boglino Jr, Janice Rose Wagner, Rosemary Hussing and her beloved dog Zoe. A service will be held at a later date.

Joseph George Culek

Joseph George Culek  April 5, 1927-Sept. 2, 2021

 Survivors include his wife of 64 years, Maryanne (Muzika) Culek; children Joseph (Laureen), Ann (James Bliven), Sue Dietrich (Art), Kathy,  Chris (Denise) and grandchildren Nicole and Joe Culek, Judah and Kate Bliven, Jessica and John Dietrich and Grace and Charlie Culek,  Preceded in death by parents, Frank and Rose Culek; siblings, Catherine, Rose, Leonarda, Frank, Kenneth and Imelda. The funeral mass is Sept. 13 at 11:30 at St. Joan of Arc in Chagrin Falls.

Around sunset on September 2nd, Joseph George Culek set sail for the other Shore. In spite of the coming night there is no fear that after 94 years of living with a strong moral compass he knew exactly his destination. On that shore he met his parents and his six siblings who made the journey before. He was a child of the depression. At 17 he enlisted in the Navy and joined his 2 brothers and 1 of his sisters going overseas during World War II. After the war he waited patiently to meet Maryanne Muzika at an ice skating rink and our family lucked out at having such a union for our parents. Should St. Peter need some work on the Heavenly Gates, Dad would be the guy. He was the ultimate do it yourselfer. He had little formal schooling but he worked his way up serving as the Building Commissioner until his retirement. Dad never minded all the dogs in the house and even got used to cats. He made children feel loved and special and he had just the knack to tuck the young ones under his arm and lull them (and him) into a lovely nap in the rocking chair. He demonstrated his ability with his 5 children and 8 grandchildren. We thank Dad for being a light in our world through his daily living showing his faith, work ethic, kindness to others and his devotion to family. He would wish us all a life of fair winds and smooth sailing. Rest in peace.

Darlene V. Velotta

September 2, 1941 - August 1, 2021

Darlene V. Velotta age 79 passed away on August 1, 2021. Cherished daughter of the late Mathew and Elizabeth DiBiase. Devoted Mother of Frank Velotta Jr.,(Gigi) and Anthony Velotta(Vanessa). Grandmother to Alyssa Velotta, Breanna Velotta (deceased), Miliana Velotta, Issac Baur, and Angelina Velotta. Loving sister to Matthew DiBiase, and Sandra Marciano (both deceased).

Private family services will be held at a later date.

Lois C. Flaccus

Lois C. Flaccus age 91, passed away on August 27, 2021 at Altercare Nursing home. She was born on October 10, 1929 in Painesville Ohio to her father/step-mother Charles (Dorothy) Merrill and her mother/step-father Pauline(Earl) Burns. Lois loved flowers, needlepoint, crocheting and long car rides. She will also be missed by her cats Ozzie and Floyd. She was a member of Saint Gabriels Church in Concord Ohio. She worked/retired from the Lake County Recorder office.

Lois is survived by sons Thomas II (Marta) Velna, and Jeffery (Judy) Velna, her grandchildren, Thomas III(Justine), Jennifer, Angelique, Michael and Erik Velna. Great grandchildren Tyrelle and Jaydyn Early, Bailey, Andrew, Jameson and Tayvion Velna. Preceded in death by husbands John Flaccus, and Thomas Velna.
A private service will be held on September 10, 2021.

Donald Edward Irvine Jr.

Donald Edward Irvine Jr. age 63

Feb 5 1958 - August 23, 2021

Donnie loved having a good time and had a good sense of humor. He enjoyed the outdoors and spending time with family and friends. He attended Painesville City Schools and was a member of the wrestling team, which placed second in the state.  He worked for Demeter’s Florist, NuPro and St. Clair Roofing.   Don is survived by his son, Matthew Benjamin Irvine; five grandchildren: Anthony, Jenny, Jessie, Payton (JoJo) and Haylee; Stepmother, Joyce Irvine of Cleveland; Sister, Debra (Francis) Sarosy; Brothers, Robert (Joanne) Irvine and Kevin(Stacey) Lewis; Sister-in-law, Cheryl Irvine-Jackson;  many nieces and nephews; he was preceded in death his Son, Donnie Irvine; Parents: Donald & Bessie Lewis and Donald Edward Irvine Sr.; Brother, Mark Alan Irvine I.

A memorial service will be held to celebrate Don’s life on Sunday, September 12, 2021 at Beaty Landing’s pavilion, 543 E. Walnut Ave., Painesville from 2:00-5:00 p.m.

Diane M. Schussler

May 13, 1937 - August 20, 2021

Diane Schussler (Douglas) age 84. Beloved wife of Henry (deceased); Mother of Scott (Jennifer), Gary (deceased) & Tim (deceased); Grandmother of six; Great-Grandmother of eleven; Daughter of Diane (deceased) & Edward (deceased); Sister of Loretta (Dick), Ron (deceased) (Georgene), & Edward (Pat).

Funeral Mass at St. Mary’s, Chardon, Ohio on Saturday, August 28, 2021 at 11:30 a. m. With luncheon to follow.

Private cemetery service on another date.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Hospice Traditional Health, LLC or St. Mary’s, Chardon, Ohio.

Wayne F. McLaughlin

Wayne F. McLaughlin, 94, of Ligonier, PA, passed away peacefully at home Friday afternoon, August 20, 2021. He was born August 11, 1927 in Manor, Pennsylvania and was the son of Franklin W. and Helen E. (Weaver) McLaughlin. He was independent right up to the end making a 3-hour drive alone just 2 1/2 weeks prior to his death and went to a fair on Tuesday and Thursday the week prior to his death. He was strong willed and as independent as possible right up until passing. He would give you the shirt off his back if he thought it would help and did not want to be a burden to anyone. He gave up his breath before losing his independence. May he have an elaborate leather shop, as many horses as he desires and a dog by his side in eternity.

      A Pennsylvania resident for all of his life. He was a truck driver by trade, traveling through every state with the exception of Alaska and Hawaii and also went into Canada with over 6 million miles on his rig(s). He made 113 trips into New York City in one year. His experience started on the family farm hauling in livestock. He was honored for his years of work with Top Oil Company. He also owned and operated his own trucks as he continued in the trucking business.

He had horses all of his life right up until about 90 years old when he considered it safer to no longer handle them. He did everything and anything you could do with a horse. He was involved in pulling, competitive shows at the fairs including driving an 8-hitch team and a three abreast horse hitch team, parades, did weddings and funerals for people and did the wagon rides at Overly Lights in Westmoreland County for years. He missed having the horses but continued to enjoy having a dog by his side or on his lap.

He was a leather craftsman with 76 years experience with making and repairing anything that was leather. He began as a teen keeping harness for the horses and cattle in repair on the family farm and finished the leather journey on this earth making quality belts and gun holsters for people along with doing and sharing many other cherished moments in his leather shop. He loved having friends and family visit. You were treated as family and invited to eat and share anything with him.

            Wayne was a life-long Mason of Shidle Lodge No. 601, Irwin, PA for 72 years, receiving his 70-year pin in 2019 and proud of that acknowledgment. He was also a long-term member of Kecksburg Sportsman Club, Appalachian Wagon Train Association, Fort Allen Antique Farm Equipment Association, National Pike Steam, Gas & Horse Association, Haflinger Registry of North America, Haflinger Breeders Organization, and Tri County Pony, Horse & Mule Pulling Association.

            Survivors include his brother, Norman (Rheta-passed) McLaughlin of Dillsburg, PA; his daughter Laura (Kurt) Butler of Kingsville, OH, daughter Jayne (David) Fincke of Bolivar, PA; six grandchildren, Amanda (Steven) Ott, Sean (Marissa) Butler, Lance (Allison) Butler, and Garrik Butler, Nathaniel and Aubree Fincke; two great grandchildren, Ariana and Kolson Ott; son through marriage William (Bill) (Carol) Swezey, daughter through marriage Sandy (James-passed) Semanek; grandchildren through marriage that he considered his own, Robert (Bobby) Swezey, Joseph (Joey)(Barb) Swezey, Lee Ann (Gary) Sanner, James (Jimmy) (Becca) Swezey, William (Billy) Swezey, Anthony (AJ) (Kirsten) Swezey, Paul (Launi) Swezey. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews and other extended family.

            He was preceded in death by his parents; three sisters Edith (McLaughlin) (Joseph Maxwell) (Kenneth) Schiesser, Mildred (McLaughlin) (Howard) Bossart, Ruth Ann (McLaughlin) (Lloyd) White; two brothers Roy McLaughlin (in infancy), Wilbur (Patricia) McLaughlin; son through marriage Robert (Mary Ann-living) Swezey; a granddaughter through marriage Linda (Swezey) Antolik.

        Graveside services will be at 2:00 P.M., Saturday, Oct 23, 2021, at the Long Run Cemetery, Lincoln Way, Irwin, PA, with Pastor Bob Iksic officiating. Read more about Wayne at https://living2bfree.com/dad-pap/

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