Shirley M. Kraft

Kraft, Shirley M., (Willette) 88, of Perry, Ohio passed away August 28, 2022. She was born in Presque Isle, Maine on Jan. 25, 1934, the daughter of Dennis and Clara (Tardy) Willette. She is predeceased by her husband Ralph and siblings Walter (Mary) Willette, Margaret Willette, Lawrence (Joyce) Willette, Earl (Pauline) Willette, Lenwood (Pauline) Willette, and Doris (Philip) Dorety. She is survived by her sister Rita Gibbs/Corradin, and her brother Paul (Kathy), (Edith, late) Willett. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, aunt, and friend. Shirley was known for her gentle nature, generosity, selflessness, caring and nurturing character, her quick sense of humor, being a great audience, always an encourager and a head-turning overcomer. Shirley always had a beautiful smile and hug for everyone. She and her late husband Ralph sponsored her brother Paul Willett’s late wife Edith’s immigration from Newfoundland. Shirley also provided loving, end-of-life care for her son-in-law, Pat’s mom. Shirley was a member of Tri-County Bible Church in Madison, Ohio. She loved Sunday school and weekly homegroup bible study. She was recently baptized in the North Perry Village Pool. Shirley raised her 5 children in Willoughby, Ohio. In her later years she was a private healthcare aid until she was 70. In the last year and a half, she enjoyed respite in Jim and Tammy Kraft’s home. Here she would comment on the privilege she now had to read the Bible (all day if she wanted), read books on faith, watch incredible bible preachers, enjoy nature and watching the birds out the back patio, and visiting with family and friends.  Shirley is survived by her children; Wayne Kraft, Susan (Patrick) Holmes, James (Tamara) Kraft, Virginia Heleen and Jane (Richard) Smith and grandchildren Bryan Holmes, Lynnea Kraft, Jared Kraft, Michael Smith, and Trisha Smith. Local nieces and nephews include: Dan (Joye) Willett, Paula (Gary) Mesojedec, Chris Willett, Cindy (Andy) Hohenbrink, Joe (Elaine) Willett. Dave (Marlene) Kraft, Chris (Kathy) Kraft, Steve (Dory) Kraft among others.

Private services will be held.

Richard Sintic

Richard Sintic passed away after a brief stay in hospice. He was born to William and Edith. He worked for the post office for many years. Loretta (Hrosar) was his high school sweetheart. They married and together they shared two sons, Joe and Sean (Michelle). He also had 5 grandkids Alyssa, Ethan, Emma, Angel, and Evan as well as well as one great-grandchild Frankie and many nieces and nephews. He is survived by his brothers Bill(Pat) and Bob(girlfriend Laurie) and his sister Sandy(Ed deceased). Rich loved classic cars and had many throughout the years. He loved car shows and swap meets. Rich loved animals and his dog Bitsy. A Private interment will take place at All Souls Cemetery. In keepin with his wishes there will be a private service and no visitation. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Lake County Humane Society.

Dorothy Baker

Dorothy Baker (nee Johnson) age 71 passed away on August 18, 2022. She was born February 26, 1951 to the late Stanley and Alice Johnson of Batesville, AR. She lived in Ohio most of her life but recently moved to Madison, Ohio with her daughter Jennifer.

Cherished wife of 45 years to the late Gary Baker. Loving mother of Jason Baker (Wendi), and daughter Jennifer Callaway.

Devoted grandmother of 8 grandchildren, and great-grandmother of 4. Sister of the late Thelma Broom. Loving aunt to many nieces and a nephew along with too many cousins to count.

She loved her family and her pets very much. She loved being on Facebook and meeting people through online games. She loved God and talked about the Bible often. While she will be missed here, we are glad she is in her eternal home in heaven.

There will be a family get-together on Saturday August 27th at 1:00pm at Jason and Wendi’s house. 8413 Dartmoor Rd, Mentor, OH 44060. Potluck lunch, please bring a dish to share.

Barbara Ianiro

Barbara Ianiro (nee Wortman), beloved wife, mother, grandmother, friend, and community member, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by family, on August 10, 2022. Through the final moments of her life, while battling dementia, she was cared for by her great-granddaughter Zoë and granddaughter Shelly, so that she could remain in her home as she wished. They were supported by Elara Hospice, to whom the family is eternally grateful. She is preceded in death by her husband, Raymond Ianiro, her children, Patricia and Michael, and her four siblings.

Born December 19, 1934, in Wickliffe to May (nee Meredith) and Raymond Wortman, Barb moved to Hambden at 15, where she settled and made her home. She and Raymond, her husband of 60 years, built a life, a family, and a business, all of which she loved. An active and passionate member of her community, Barb never met a stranger in her life. She was often found out and about in Hambden, whether for coffee, at a garage sale, or an event – from the Bluegrass, to pancake breakfasts, to the Bondstown Bash. Everyone knew she’d arrived when they saw her telltale Hambden license plate. It’s no surprise, then, that she was also the consummate hostess, especially when it came to her famous Fourth of July picnics, which came complete with food, family, and entertainment in spades at “the lake” – her property that became the gathering place for family events. 

Her days – and years – were full of meaning. She was often the first one up in the morning, and the last to go to bed after a long day of spreading kindness and compassion to all she encountered. She touched many lives as a volunteer at Hannah House taking care of drug-addicted babies, in her work campaigning for the democratic party, as a CASA and bailiff for the Chardon and Willoughby courts, as a trustee, and as the first woman to serve as Hambden Township Clerk, the co-founder of the League of Women Voters of Geauga, and co-founder of the Bondstown Bash. She worked well into her 70s, doing census work in her later years. In 2016, a resolution to honor her and her service was passed by the township.

Throughout all of her hard work and many achievements, she was also a foster mother to more than 18 children, cared for her special-needs brother, Bobby Wortman, and her granddaughter, and was an exemplary homemaker. No gourmet chef herself, Barb would wrestle anyone for the dinner check, and had a gift for singing any baby to sleep – despite a singing voice that wasn’t quite choir levels. She understood that you don’t have to be the best at a thing for it to bring joy. She especially loved being a grandmother, never missing a game, graduation, practice, or event that her grandchildren and great-grandchildren were a part of. Her infectious laughter, so large a part of their lives, will be greatly missed.

Barbara is survived by her bonus daughter, Helen Wilson, her five grandchildren: Michelle (Scott) Nelson, Jonathan (Diana) Howson, Rachel (Kyle) Korensek, Amelia and Tanner Ianiro, and great-grandchildren: Zoë, Gianna, Rylee, Caleb, Alanna, Quinn, Sienna, Jocelynn, and Emily, as well as many beloved nieces and nephews.

A private graveside service and celebration of life will be held at “the lake” at a later time.

Violet Lucille Fessler

Violet Lucille Fessler.

Born in Woodville Pa. on  Monday, June 10th in the Summer of 1933. Violet lovingly and longingly went home to be reunited with her son, 

Mark D.  Fessler (07/20/57-02/11/12)

Violet, (89) passed on Monday August 8th 2022. 

May she rest in peace with Jesus.

Violet enjoyed life to the fullest, and balanced her many years with church, work, family and friends. 

During her retirement from General Electric as a quality control technician, Violet spent most of her time with friends and her eldest grand-daughter,  Lisa Michelle, doing day trips, lunching, and playing her favorite card game, Hand and Foot (Canasta) 

Mark, Violet's only child blessed her with 

3  grandchildren;

Lisa Michelle Fessler, Christopher Mark Fessler and  Kaitlyn Elizabeth (Dominic)  Lucarelli, 

3 great grand-children;  

Mason Schwartz (7)  June Schwartz (6), and  Lilah Lucarelli (2 mo.) 

Violet advocated with her fellow church members on social issues. She was truly a very strong woman who defended her convictions and moral beliefs. 

She enjoyed humor and had a kind infectious laugh and a beautiful singing voice.

In her later years she enjoyed relaxing to her favorite Faith singer, Daniel O'Donnell whom she was thrilled to see live in concert.  

Violet was the last surviving child of her parents; Elmer Carl Fessler and Vinia Fessler (Swope) 

Siblings; 

Elmer (Pete) Alllen Fessler,  Steward Harding Fessler, Virginia Leoda (Fessler) Heckman, Doris Madeline (Fessler) Karrick, Deloris (Deenie) Jean (Fessler) Wright.

Nieces and Nephews; 

Stewart, Tammy, Scott, Vickie, Sharon, Troy, Merrill, Larry, Ronnie, Randy, Debbie, ,Linda Jeffery and Terry. 

Friends are welcome to join family at Violets final farewell graveside service; 

12:00 Tues. 8/16/2022

All Souls Cemetery

10366 Chardon Rd.

Chardon Ohio 44024

**All souls request friends arrive 10 min. early and wait in cars at U-shape entrance (with family) until  escort arrives. Late arrivals can go directly to site after escort is completed or office if  they need directions to graveside.

 Family wishes for prayers and loving remembrances. 

 Donations can be made to charity of your choosing. 

Joanne Bell

Joanne Bell, age 59, of Painesville Ohio passed away peacefully on August 2, 2022 from lung cancer. Cherished daughter of Judy Eldridge-Bradenbaugh and Roy Willis. She is survived by her husband Ron Bell. Children, Jill (Josh) Jones, Jamie (Megan) Bell, and David Bell. Grandmother of Jack Jones.

Joanne dedicated her life to caring for others. She worked at Deepwood Center for 23 years. She was also a nursing assistant for many years caring for others. Everyone that knew Joanne would agree that she was a free spirit and a feisty Italian who never hesitated to tell you what she thought. Joanne loved her canine companions, exploring the outdoors, playing in her flower beds during the summer, visiting the lake, and “quick” visits with family and friends. She reminded us often that she did things when she wanted and how she wanted, and stayed true to her words until the end. Joanne has spread her wings, and will be missed dearly.

Brenda K. Hanuscin

Brenda k. Hanuscin,75, of Eastlake passed away on August 1, 2022, at her daughters home after a brief battle with lung cancer. Brenda was born July 27th 1947 in St Charles, va. She enjoyed going to casinos, playing bingo, and spending time with her family. She was an amazing mom, Grandmother, Sister, Aunt, and friend to many.

She is preceded in death by her husband John, her two sons John and Steven Hanuscin, her brother Glen, sister Patricia and sister Joyce. She is survived by her daughter Kelli (Dennis) Welk, her daughter in law Amanda, her brothers Sid(Darlene) Rose, and Gary(Joanne) Rose, her sister Christina Hebebrand and her nine grandchildren JD, Nick, Madi,Catey, Jasmine, Emma, Ben, Sarah, and Kayla.

Private graveside service will be held on August 19th 2022 at knollwood cemetery.

Family asks that flowers be donated to knollwood cemetery for the service.

Jonathan Henry Tubman

We are sad to announce the passing of Jonathan Henry Tubman, but happy to be able to reminisce on the good times with those who cared about him. He passed away at the age of 69 during the early hours of July 30, 2022. Jon's official cause of death was deemed to be ischemic heart disease.

Jon (or Mr. Jon) was a good friend and father figure to many throughout his years. He was always passionate about making environments for people to come together in, whether it be building a structure to play in, painting the walls for a living space, landscaping beautiful scenes, or simply being a friendly face. He will be so happy to create an environment for people to come together again to celebrate our time with him. 

If you would like to spend some time with Jon one more time with his loved ones, we will be meeting in the chapel at Western Reserve Memorial Gardens (Chesterland, Ohio) on Friday, September 9th at 3:00 pm.

His ashes will be buried at the end of our service (sometime between 3:30 pm - 4:00 pm). Anyone wishing to spend more time together after the service is more than welcome to do so graveside. Bring your own chairs, if so.

See you on September 9th!

PS: Jon's death was unexpected at this time, so he did not have the finances set in place to assist in the many costs that fall on loved ones after someone has passed. If you would like to help out with the financial burden, you can donate through the following link: https://gofund.me/55a8ecf1

Victor Malto

Victor “Vito” Joseph Malto, 76, of Richmond Heights, OH, passed away peacefully on July 29th surrounded by his family.

He is preceded in death by his parents Vito and Rose Malto (nee Zeck) and survived by his wife of 57 years, Rita (McGrath), daughters Kathleen, Kristine Rhode (Pat) and Laura Jackson (Rob), granddaughters Julia and Josephine, sisters Carol Toslosky (Joe Zoba) and Lorraine Powell (Tommy) of his hometown Hazleton, PA.

Victor joined the US Army on February 24, 1964, and received an honorable discharge on February 13, 1967. He worked at Ohio Bell and later retired from AT&T. He enjoyed golfing, watching Twilight Zone episodes, making homemade wine, playing keno, fishing, gardening, and spending time with his grandchildren.

A Memorial Mass will be held on Friday, August 26, 2022, at Saint Noel Church located at 35200 Chardon Road, Willoughby Hills, OH 44094, at 11:00 am, preceded by military honors.

Donald L. Briganti

Donald L. Briganti age 56, longtime resident of Mentor, and recently resided in Fairport Harbor. Donald passed away on July 29, 2022. Son of the late Beverly D. Briganti and Vito A. Briganti Sr. Husband of the late Carole Briganti. Cherished father of the late Stephen Christopher Briganti. Loving brother of Vito A. Briganti Jr., Brian M. Briganti, and Michelle D. (Briganti) Barber (Antwon Barber). Uncle of Vito A. Briganti III and Ashley M. (Briganti) Coogler (Ben Coogler). Great uncle to Brandon, Nathan, and Westen Coogler. Donnie had a smile that would light up the room. He was always funny, charming, and a good listener. He adored and loved his family and friends, enjoyed spending time with them, loved cooking, loved being Italian, and loved his Italian Heritage roots. He will be deeply missed by all, but will forever remain in their hearts.

Thomas Angelo DeAngelis

Thomas Angelo DeAngelis

Born May 8 1966 passed away suddenly July 28,2022.

Beloved twin of Anthony loving brother to Gina and Debra (Randy) Karlovec.

Being a Buddhist Tom was a kind and gentle soul who had a vast wealth of knowledge including but not limited to music, science, history, astronomy two of his biggest passions were global warming and climate control.

Tom loved all genre's of music some of his favorite artists were pink Floyd, miles Davis, Grant Green, Jethro Tull David bowie and countless others.

Two quotes Tony would like everyone to remember Tom by:

1 point me at the sky

2.E=mc2

Tom was a loving uncle to, Jessica, Tom, Chris,Matt and Adam.  And a loving great uncle to Johnny, Tommy, Andrew and Natalie. 

Tom was processed in death by his parents Thomas and Carol his great nephew Christopher and great niece Harper.

A celebration of life will be announced at a later date.

CHARLENE BOROM

Charlene Borom age 83, passed away peacefully on July 21, 2022. She is survived by her daughter Lesli Borom. Cherished grandmother of Ciara and Sharawn Borom. Great-grandmother of Cianna-Marie Borom. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at a later date.

Virginia L. Smith

Virginia L. Smith (nee Morrison) age 84, passed away on July 18, 2022.  Loving wife of the late Henry Smith.

Cherished mother of  Mark (Shelly), Dean (Anne), and Rick Morrison. Devoted grandmother of 7, and great-grandmother of 5. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at St. Luke's Episcopal Church 11519 Wilson Mills Rd. in Chardon, OH on Sunday, August 7th, 2022 at 1:30pm.

Sharon Lee Sokolowski Bolin

Sharon Lee Sokolowski Bolin of Cleveland Ohio, passed away unexpectedly on July 17th, 2022. She was born to the late Arlene and Walter Sokolowski. Preceded in death by her daughter Tammy, her beloved siblings Valerie, Eddie and Wally, and the love of her life, Michael Bolin. Cherished sister to Kim Sokolowski, mother to Tina, Michelle (Chell-Z) & Chris, step mother to Michelle (CD) and Jessica. Adored by her grandchildren, Alex, Rachel & Stefan, Anthony & Karlan, Lexi & Noah, and her great grandson Honey. Beloved Aunt and stand in mom to Shauna, Jennifer & Jessica and cherished aunt to many, many more nieces and nephews.

Ahead of her time, Sharon Bolin was a fierce champion of equality, progressivism and love, undefined by boundaries. An incredibly giving and caring daughter, wife, mother, aunt, grandmother, and dear friend, she spread joy, empathy and compassion to all that she touched. 

She lived her entire life in service of others. Being the oldest of seven children in her family she was eternally the big sister making sure everyone was clothed and fed and cared for while living her own life and began motherhood as a young teenager. She always had such an incredible work ethic and was valued everywhere she was ever employed. In her young adulthood with her own children in toe, she had a childcare business out of her home and cared for numerous children over the years. She called them her “babysittin' kids” and loved them and their parents as her own family. She worked later on at Elaine Powers as a fitness instructor and made such a big impact on so many women’s lives. She worked at MedNet Euclid Clinic in the late 80’s into the 90’s also making lifetime friendships with many of her co workers. 

She went on to her longest held career at UniCare (Human Arc/Centauri) and helped the Cleveland community in need. She was the utmost dedicated and invaluable employee of the company she championed for 31 years. The company name may have changed a few times over the years but she did not waver in her devotion, even having license plates on her car that read “UNIMOM” because she truly was everyone’s mom at her company as well. Being on the “entertainment committee” she made sure EVERYONE always felt welcomed and included in an integral part of a larger cause. She made sure birthday cards and well wishes, holidays and events were enjoyed by all and she won “Best Costume” for Halloween many times sharing her creativity and joy for the things she loved. She truly was a child at heart and loved making others laugh and smile. She helped at women’s shelters, helped organize Habitat for Humanity events, bowled in leagues for charities, and too many other community supported festivities to list.

Sharon became fast friends with anyone and everyone she met. She was sassy and funny and wore her heart on her sleeve. She called herself SharonBolin as if it were one word and everywhere she went she always complimented people to make them feel better and have a bright spot in their day. She was a neighbor friend and grandma figure anyone would appreciate and always looked out for all of them. They became dear to her heart and she accepted them as part of her family as they did the same for her. Birthday parties, weddings, Christmas and the holidays were parties she loved to host and welcomed everyone with gifts and food and always a great time. She consistently opened her home as a safe haven and place to get on your feet for multiple family members and friends over the years everywhere she lived. Her most recent home that she was very proud of and made her heart so full and content was no exception. She couldn’t bear the thought of someone in need and the words “she saved my life” were so familiar and precious that our responses became “That’s just what she does.” She loved all things Elvis Presley, Looney Tunes, Harry Potter and adored her butterflies and roses. Above all, she took great pride and shared with complete enthusiasm her immense pride in those she held dear to her heart.

Per Sharon's wishes she did not want funeral services, only a Celebration of Life Party which will be held in the fall.

Zita B. Knific

Zita Knific (nee Berardi) age 81, passed away peacefully on July 14, 2022

She was recognized for excellence in teaching and winner of several teaching awards in both Florida and Ohio. Mrs. Knific ended a 42 year teaching career at Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin School in Chardon where she was involved in several co-curricular activities. Remembered for her optimism and enthusiasm, her mantra was, “Listen to the song of life!”  She genuinely loved her students yet demanded they perform at their
highest potential.

Upon retirement she pursued her interests in various community volunteer programs, membership in several book clubs while maintaining her friendships with colleagues and making new friends. She loved
attending the theater, reading, traveling with her husband and friends, gardening and exercising.

She is survived by her children Randolph (Karen), Thomas (Renata) and Donald, grandchildren John (Christine), Jean, Carrie (Rob Fischer), Christopher, Nina, and David, and great grandchildren Samuel, Benjamin and Rose (John and Christine Knific).

According to family wishes, there is no wake and funeral services are private.
In lieu of flowers, please support Hospice of Western Reserve, Lake County Humane Association, the charity
of your choice or perform an act of kindness in her name.

Spencer (Alison) Mahoney

Spencer (Alison) Mahoney age 32, peacefully passed away on July 10, 2022, after a courageous battle with ALS. Born to the late Catherine Giddings. Cherished sister of Tricia Balogh, Crystal Gates (husband Jeramie), and Jessica Balogh. Niece of Susie and Jim Denis, and Michael Rampy. Aunt of  Riley Gates, Laynie Gates, Dayna Eaton, and soon to be born Baby Bair. Devoted cat parent to Nala, Nuggy and Mickey. 

Spencer was a fierce spirit who had a strong will. They wanted to make a mark on this world before they departed, and fought for what they believed in, where they made their voice heard, and gave support to others. The LGBTQ+ community and people with disabilities, was a very important part of Spencer's life to encourage others to always fight for your rights, and understand your worth. One of the most important parts of Spencer's life was the love they had for animals, but especially cats.  If there is one thing in life to take away from knowing Spencer is that where there is love there is life, support one another, and stand up for what you believe in. Spencer had a hilarious sense of humor, that brought so much joy into so many peoples lives. Spencer's wishes were to spread roots even after their passing, and their ashes will be grown into a lilac tree, the family will hold a memorial service in the spring. Donations may be made in Spencer's name to the ALS Association.

Ronald T. Mervo

Ronald T. Mervo of Mentor, Ohio passed away on July 8, 2022. Son of the late Joseph and Helen Mervo in Cleveland. A graduate of Cleveland State University, Ron was a CPA and worked for the U. S. Treasury Department for 32 years, retiring in 2000. He is survived by his wife, Theresa, whom he married on September 7, 1974, daughter, Michelle Hovencamp (Mark), grandsons Luke and John Hovencamp and brother, Kenneth.. He was preceded in death by his son, Adam. Ron was a lifelong practicing Catholic. Private interment and services will be held at a later date. Donations in Ron’s name can be made to a charity of your choice.

Floyd W. Crouse

Floyd W. Crouse age 74, of Mentor, passed away July 7, 2022. He was born on November 22, 1947 in Gamoca, WV to the late Lloyd and Dorothy Crouse. Floyd worked for AirMaze/Donaldson Company for over 25 years as a machinist.

Cherished husband of the late Christine E. Crouse (nee Evans). Devoted father of Theresa Crouse-Thoeni, Brian (Laurie) Crouse, and Michael Crouse. Loving grandfather of Alyssa (Richard) Durdak III, Matthew Crouse (fiancee Katie Burkey), Noelle and Christa Thoeni, and Autumn Crouse. Great-grandfather of Braelyn and Rick IV. He is also survived by siblings Evelyn Lucas, Bruce Crouse, Craig Crouse, and childhood best friend Bob Lucas. He will be greatly missed by his trusted loyal friend, and faithful canine companion Max.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his infant son Matthew L. Crouse.

Private Family services will be held at St. John Vianney Church Mentor, OH. Inurnment at All Souls Cemetery, Chardon, OH will be held at a later date followed by A Celebration of Life.

Kathleen E. Cortes

Kathleen E. Cortes (nee Brown), of Eastlake. Passed away on July, 5, 2022. Loving mother of Lillian Cortes, Jennifer Franzke, Obed Cortes Jr., and Olivia Cortes. Devoted grandmother of Michael Anderson III, Nevaeh Anderson, Mya Cortes, and Vada Franzke. Kathleen was a dear friend to many, and will be missed by family and friends. Celebration of Life will be held Saturday July 16, 2022 from 1:00-3:30 P.M. at Veterans Park in Mentor, OH.

Dennis Lawrence

Dennis W Lawrence, 70, of Painesville, Ohio passed away July 4th peacefully at home in the presence of loved ones. Dennis was born to Dorothy (Larned) and Albert Lawrence. 

Dennis was a hard working businessman who devoted most of his professional life to Kismet Rubber Products where he started sweeping floors in the 70's and ended as Owner/President in 2008. From there he moved on to become Lake Health's most beloved maintenance man. He was known and loved for his easy going sense of humor, passionate landscape and lawncare abilities, and selfless hospitality. 

Dennis is survived by: his wife Nola; daughters Taunya Lawrence and Sarah Benedum.

Grandchildren Nikky, Sydney, Talyor, Hope, Olivia; Siblings David (Valerie), Albert (Rosemarie), and Donald

Nieces and Nephews Edward (Lindsey), Pamela (Will), Diana (Frank), Denise (Lenny), Daniel (Swazeek), Joseph (Michelle), Michael (Janet) and many other loved ones. He is preceded in death by his parents Dorothy (step-father Paul Hvizda), Albert, Step daughter Sonya Sheppard, and grandson Corey Atkinson.

Please join us as we celebrate his life in his favorite outdoor sanctuary at his home Sunday, July 24th 1:00P.M.-5:00P.M. Contact Sarah at 440-413-9671 for address if needed.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Seidman Cancer Center