Donna Jean Vargo

Donna Jean Vargo was born in Youngstown, and passed away on December 28, 2022.

Donna graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School in 1966. She was a stay at home mother until she went to Youngstown Vocational School to become a nurse. She enjoyed annual family trips to Myrtle Beach, SC and watching her favorite television shows like the Big Bang Theory and The Walking Dead. As her health allowed, she traveled and visited with family. Donna was a caregiver at heart. As a nurse, she cared for the elderly throughout her career. After work, she would go home to care for her children. She was a strong woman raising her children and loving them unconditionally. 

Donna is survived by her husband, Jeff Vargo, who she married on June 2, 2008 after meeting one another at a singles dance. Their first date was at Mill Creek Park in Youngstown, Ohio. Donna is survived by her children: JoLynn Burt (Steve), Jim Weitzman, Will Weitzman, Brittany Weitzman (Brett Kollen); Grandchildren: Ryan Burt, Rachel Burt, Jimmy Weitzman, Ava Weitzman, Ella Weitzman, Jacob Weitzman, Adeline Weitzman; and Step children: Amanda Vargo, Heather Holt (Malik Holt-Shabazz). She was preceded in death by her son, Bryan. 

Donna was loved by her sister, Phyllis Widelski (John), brother, Mike Dudash (Julie); sister-in-law Dolores Weitzman (Larry Schweikert) as well as her neices/nephews: Kim Simon (Jeff Simon), Rachelle Smith (Randy). Anna Dudash, and Michael Dudash Jr. 

Russell A. Florentine

Russell A. Florentine, 86, of Munson Township entered into eternal rest on December 27, 2022 after a short illness. Beloved husband of 40 years to Mary Lou (Matthews) and cat dad to his beloved Missy.  Loving father of Sandra (George) O’Brien and devoted grandfather to Leslie (Ed) Wojtonek.  Cherished son of the late Michael Angelo Florentine and Frances (nee Guerra) Stephany.  Russell was also preceded in death by his sons Michael, Mitchell and Russell Florentine.  

A graduate of Euclid High School (Class of ‘54) Russell was the owner of Russ Automotive in Wickliffe for many years.  He was also an avid gardener, and enjoyed travel and woodworking, producing many fine pieces.      

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in memory of Russell to Rescue Village, 15463 Chillicothe Rd., Novelty, OH  44072.

William Thomas Miller

William Thomas Miller age 95, born to the late Thomas and Saima (nee Jacobson). Passed away peacefully December 24, 2022. Loving husband of Carol (nee Murdoch-Miller (Green). Devoted Stepfather of Doug (Sherri), Jen (Matt), Jill (Albie). Cherished grandfather of Erin (Don), Evan (Ashley), Christina (Mike), Keith (Evan), and great-grandfather of Jane, and Karsyn. William was a Corporal in the U.S. Army, as well as the U.S. Military Police Corps. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at a later date.

Alfred R. Schaeffer

Alfred R. Schaeffer “Al”

Al passed away on December 18, 2022, age 69, after 3 months of fighting a very aggressive brain disease.  He was a loving and devoted husband to Barbara (nee Schoren) for 40 years, and together they have 2 sons, Tom (Emma) and Joe.  He was the proud "Grampy" of one grandson, Leo.

Al was born in December of 1953 to parents Fred and Edna Schaeffer (both deceased).  He has a sister Rita Bogucki (Dave deceased) and 3 deceased brothers, Tom, Dan (Laurie), and Fred (Joann).  He has many nieces and nephews.  He went through life with a positive attitude and a sense of humor that was contagious.  Al was a quiet, patient, gentle, and loving man.  He would do anything he could to help those he cared about.  Al enjoyed working in his garden, grilling on his BBQ, fishing, and woodworking.  Al will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

Ying Yu Pan

In Loving Memory of

Ying Yu Pan

June 1929 - December 2022

Ying Yu Pan, 93, of Cleveland, Ohio, passed away peacefully in his sleep on December 16, 2022 at home in Cleveland, OH with his family member by his side. Born in Rangoon, Burma; He immigrated to United States in 1974 with his family. He was very proud to become a naturalize citizen in 1979 with his family. In 1982, he achieved his American Dream by becoming a home owner. Though a stranger in a foreign land, he stated home is where the heart is.

Ying worked as a cabinet maker, bean sprout farmer and chef at a Chinese restaurant. He was an avid community member. As a self-proclaimed mayor of little Chinatown, he always took the initiative to greet you with a warm smile and talk about his family. He received recognition from the City of Cleveland of Ward 13 for his hard work and dedication in the community. He also was selected for Southwest - Home for the Holiday Event in 2002. This was first real vacation to visit family on the west coast.

After retirement, he found peace and serenity by growing Chinese vegetables in his backyard. He always had bountiful crops and would share them to the local retirement center. He had a great devotion and selflessness to the local Christian Church. He utilized his cooking talents by creating many delicious dishes every weekend and holidays. He loved to sing hymns before his hearing loss.

Ying favorite pastime was reading new recipes and sending Christmas cards to his many friends and family. He would start in early November so he can write them all. If you were on the list, you were considered family. He also loved to share his wisdom about being fearless and trying out new things. Be kind to one another. We have much more in common than anyone realize.

Ying will join his wife, Molly in heaven. They were married for 60 years until her passing in 2021. He is survived by his four children: Jackson Pan & Nelson Pan, of California; Mary Pan, of Wickliffe; and Wilson Pan, of Cleveland. He is also survived by his two grandchildren and six cats.

A private memorial & celebration of Ying’s life will be planned for a later date. Ying was a simple man and dislike extravagance. To Ying striving for money was meaningless, the friendship you gain was more precious. In lieu of flowers, Ying’s family suggests that memorial donations be made in his name to your favorite local food bank.

Karen Marie Tetrick

Karen Marie Tetrick (nee Braski) age 74, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on December 13, 2022. Cherished daughter of the late Marvin “Buddy” Braski and Eleanor (Simko) Braski. Devoted  mother of Tammy Tetrick Weaver(deceased), and Eugene Tetrick.
Cherished sister of David, Johnny and Linda Braski. Loving grandmother of Ripley Weaver. Karen graduated with her diploma in nursing from Mount Sinai School of Nursing. She worked as a registered nurse for 44 years prior to retiring. Karen enjoyed crossword puzzles, her iPad, coffee, and most of all spending time with her family. She will forever remain in our hearts, and will be dearly missed by all. A. Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. 

Rachel “Dawanna Ratcliffe

Rachel “Dawanna” Ratcliffe

Rachel “Dawanna” Ratcliffe, 30 yrs., of Concord Twp., died December 12, 2022 at Tri Pointe Hospital.

Dawanna was born in 1992 in Cleveland Ohio and became the daughter of Michael and Stephanie Ratcliffe at the age of 6 months. She resided in Painesville Twp until 2021 and then resided in Concord Twp.

Dawanna attended Broadmoor School and was a graduate of Riverside High School.  She recently attended Broadening Abilities at the LCBDD Willoughby Branch.

Dawanna enjoyed going to “school” every day and socializing with her aids, administrators and peers.  She loved being the center of attention to her family and her nurses.  She  loved music, walks outside, eating out, dancing and reading and writing in her books.  She was the life of any party.

Dawanna will forever be remembered for her sparkling smile, infectious laugh, her warm hugs and her ability to make everyone she came in contact with “happy”.

Dawanna leaves to cherish her memories:

Her mother, Stephanie; Brothers and sisters Tim (Jamie), Molly Doeing, Katie (Chawezi) Kumwenda, Amanda, Donald, Sylvia, Bob, Dolly, Jay, Tara, Danny, Kenny, and Angel; Aunt Judy (Chuck) Molnar, Uncle Mark Bressler;  Nieces and nephews Samantha Doeing, Haley Ratcliffe, Leah Kumwenda, Elijah Kumwenda and Leo Ratcliffe; Nurses Maureen Ely, Kelly Van Horn, Kathy Kovach and Chris Forrester.

Dawanna was preceded in death by her father Michael, sister Annie, brothers Charlie and Zachary; brother in law Joe Doeing; Uncle Byron Bressler

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday January 13, 2023 from 4pm to 6:30pm at The Concord Community Center, Ellison Room, 7671 Auburn Rd., Concord, Ohio  44077

Reed H. Martin III

Reed H. Martin III, age 68, of Mentor, passed away on December 11, 2022.  Reed was born in Ohio to Reed Martin Jr. and Margaret Martin.  He is predeceased by his loving wife of 43 years (48 years together) Elaine V. Martin.  Reed was a devoted father of Reed (Stephanie) Martin IV and Robyn (Adam) Rupp; cherished grandfather of Pierson, Lennon and Arlow Rupp; dear brother of  Denise Martin and Debbie Barnick; loving brother-in-law of Robert Rand and Bethany Blake.  Reed is predeceased by his parents and sister Michelle (Anthony) LoPresti.            

Reed worked for Mentor Lumber for 31 years. He worked his way up to president of the company in the last 14  years of his career before retiring in 2019. He enjoyed golf, softball, his pool, Marco Island, and most importantly, spending time with his family and numerous friends. 

A celebration of life will be held in January.

JUNE ANN O' NEIL

JUNE ANN O’NEIL

June 27, 1936 – November 28, 2022

                        June was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania to Nicholas and Irene Christos.  Her mother died when she was just four years old, but she had a close relationship with her two sisters, Dorothy and Patsy, that helped her grow into a successful adult.

                        While attending the University of Pittsburgh, she met and married James Betts, with whom she had two daughters, Patty and Peggy, after moving to the Cleveland area.

                        June had two careers in her life.  She was a research scientist at the Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, the Veterans Administration Hospital, and the Cleveland Clinic.  After retirement she was a respected fiber artist enjoying showings of her work at museums and galleries throughout Ohio.

                        June loved science, art, gardening, animals, and cooking and dining with family and friends.  She was passionate about social justice and volunteered her time generously with Witness for Peace, the Cleveland Heights Hunger Center, and various civil rights organizations.

                        June is preceded in death by her parents, her first husband, James, her second husband, John O’Neil, and her sister, Dorothy Moss.  She is survived by her sister, Patsy Thiros; her daughters, Patty Hall and Peggy Light;  her grandchildren, Matthew Light, David Light, and Anne Hall; two great grandchildren, Marley Light and Maci Light;  and her dear colleague and friend, Dr. George Hoppe.

                        Following her wishes, June has been cremated with a private family service,  In her honor, the family encourages those who know her to engage in a deeply considered and deliberate act of kindness toward a person or animal in need of it.

Shirley Carol Overturf

January 3, 1934 - November 28, 2022

Our beloved mother and the matriarch of our family, Shirley Carol Overturf, age 88, passed away peacefully at home, with her family by her side, on Monday, November 28, 2022. Loving mother of Richard Hatfield, Cheri Quill, Linda Ilacqua, Thomas (Sharon), and Jefferson (Michele); loving grandmother of Bobbie Lynn, Jackie, Heather, Brett, Michael, Kristina, Jefferson, Mack, and Rick “Cody”; Great-grandmother of Kylie, Keira, Alexis, Hayden, Jefferson, and Lexi; beloved Aunt of many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband Thomas Chester, parents William and Sophia Ringler (nee Ringer), son Richard Hatfield, daughter Cheri Quill, twin brothers Gerald and Herald Ringler, sisters Helen Halberg and Eleanore Karkoska. Shirley had a passion for reading and loved animals.  Her biggest passion was walking and riding her bike. Shirley started her career later in life at age 39 when she decided to take her GED test. She scored “Top 10” in the United States and won a scholarship to nursing school. She then started working at the Cleveland Clinic (formerly Euclid General Hospital) where she worked for 25 years before retiring.  For many years she walked or rode her bike every day to work. She worked in the Rehab unit where she made many lifelong friends. She was a kind, compassionate, and a caring nurse that truly loved her job and taking care of her patients. She never missed a day and worked every Holiday. But she still managed to cook a huge meal for her family to enjoy. She always said, “I love my job.” She also enjoyed going to garage sales to find unique things and antiques.  Shirley leaves behind her most beloved furry companions her cat (Jack) and her dogs (Dottie Mae and Macho).

A special thanks to the kind and caring team at the Hospice of Western Reserve for their support and compassion.

There will be a graveside service and Celebration of Life in the Spring of 2023.

Alice Jane Shaffer

Alice Jane Mason Shaffer passed away peacefully in her home on Thursday, November 24th 2022.

She was the loving mother of Virginia "Ginny" and Jeff Lopick (deceased), and Gregory Shaffer. Dear Grandma of Joshua (Krystal), Emily (Parker) Porosky, Michael and Joseph, Great Grandma of Aidan and Kian, as well as a beloved Aunt, Cousin and friend to many.

Alice was preceded in death by her parents John and Belva Mason (nee Culp) and dear sister Hazel Petrovich (nee Mason) and brother John "Jack" Mason.

Per Alice's request, services and interment will be private. Arrangements can be entrusted to Vito Nero Funeral Home and Crematory.

After Glow by Helen Lowrie Marshall

"I'd like the memory of me

To be a happy one

I'd like to leave an after glow

Of smiles when life is done

I'd like to leave an echo

Whispering softly down the ways

Of happy times and laughing times

And bright and sunny days

I'd like the tears of those who grieve

To dry before the sun

Of happy memories that I leave

When life is done"

Viola A. Pergl

Viola A. Pergl, 95, of Garfield Hts. passed away peacefully on November 17, 2022. Beloved sister of the late Elsie Gerlica, James, and Joseph Pergl. Dear Aunt of Jane Gerlica (Robert Sorce), Carol Hren (Gerald), and John Gerlica (Jennifer). Viola was a loyal friend to many. Viola worked as an executive secretary at The Standard Oil Co. for nearly 40 years. She was a faithful Cleveland baseball fan, an avid reader who loved sharing books, as well as stories with friends. A prayer service will be held on January 28, 2:30pm, at St. John Lutheran Church in Garfield Hts. Interment private. Family suggests memorial contributions to Jennings Home for the Aged, 10204 Granger Rd., Garfield Hts. Ohio 44125.

Edith I. Dobrzanski

Edith I. Dobrzanski age 71, passed away peacefully on November 17, 2022. Loving mother of Frankie (Tina), Jarrells, and Tina (Frank) Olivo. Devoted grandmother of Eddie, Skyler, Ashley, Monica (deceased), Shyan, Austin, and Kaleigh. Great-grandmother of Austin, Jayden, Navara, and Laylah. Sister of Nick (deceased), Bob, and Meda. Cherished daughter of Denny “Happy,” Lester, and Virginia. The family will hold a Private Celebration of Life Service in the summer at a later date.

John A. Wronski Jr.

John A. Wronski Jr., age 65 passed away on November 14, 2022. Beloved husband of 40 years to Mona (nee Burrows). Father of Christopher G. Kowalewski, and Lorelyn H. Loepp (Timothy). Grandfather of 4, and great-grandfather of 1. Brother of Randall J. Grzeskowiak. Uncle of Kristen, Jeffrey, and Michael Grzeskowiak. John loved fishing, camping, and relaxing by a campfire with a drink. He was an avid viewer of street outlaws, and no prep kings. John would do anything he could for family and friends. He was dependable and reliable to those who ask. A Memorial will be held Sunday December 11, 2022 at Newburgh Heights Community Room, 3801 Harvard Avenue, Newburgh Hts., OH 44105 from 1:00-3:00P.M.

David H. Butts

David H. Butts was born on Valentine’s Day, 1943 in Charleston WV. He passed away peacefully on 11/13/22 at Hospice of the Western Reserve after a long battle with cancer.

David was a long time resident of Chardon, OH.  He was a mechanic for Wally’s Gulf Gas Station and Cooke’s Marathon Gas Station.  Dave had a lifelong passion for cars and loved to work on them.  He even raced cars in past years at the local racetrack.  He also was an avid fisherman, enjoyed flea markets and loved to tinker with clocks and watches. Dave was known for being able to repair grandfather and mantle clocks and was the go to for quick watch repair and batteries at his flea market stand in Middlefield for many years.  He enjoyed spending time with friends and neighbors at his favorite hangout, the garage and patio area of the apartment complex where he lived for over 40 years.

Dave was preceded in death by his parents, Lewis and Evelyn, ex-wife Betty Lou Butts, his later life partner, Donna Lookabill, siblings Peggy Benton, Wesley Butts, Betty Layton, Roger Butts and son Donald Blodgett.

Surviving children include daughters Antoinette Vandenburg (Casey), Evelyn Zeiten (Jon), Catherine Thorne (Edward), D’Ann Camp, Carolyn Lookabill (Ray Poplyk) and son Scott Blodgett (Gail). 10 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren.  He leaves behind a large extended family from Campbell’s Creek WV. Siblings include Caroline Martin (Sherman), Vincent and Ivan (Sandy). 

Following cremation, Family will hold private services in both OH and WV.

“County roads, take me home to the place I belong….West Virginia”.  Almost Heaven!

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The American Cancer Society, UH Seideman Cancer Center or Hospice of the Western Reserve. 

Spencer C. Phelps

Spencer C. Phelps 87, Fairport Harbor passed away peacefully at home on November 12,2022 surrounded by loved ones.

Spencer “Slugger” was born on August 28th,1935 to parents Elmer and Edith Phelps and grew up in Mentor,Ohio before spending 34 years in Jackson MS.

After graduating from Mentor High School in 1953 he joined the army and served in Germany where he often ran into Elvis.

Upon returning to Mentor, Spencer started working at Lindsay Wire and worked there for 41 years.

In retirement Spencer worked at St.Dominic Hospital in Jackson Mississippi providing transportation and humor for patients and staff for 11 years.

Spencer was a proud member of Wells United Methodist Church in Jackson,Mississippi where he especially enjoyed the music.

Although he suffered from Alzheimer’s for over 10 years he never forgot his family or the punchline to a joke or to tell his loved ones how much he loved them.

Spencer “Papaw” was proceeded in death by his beloved step daughter Jennifer(David) Lyons, parents Elmer and Edith, brothers Robert,Jack, William,Gaylord, Layton and sisters Miriam Meyers, Maybelle Sutch and Patty Kowalewski.

He is survived by his loving wife of 43 years Elaine (nee:Sprague) his dear big sister Phrania Poole,step children Rob Ducsay(Johanna), Kim(Gary)Goellner,Denise Kern (Jim) ,Missie(Brad)Maloney and sons Bill(Joann)Phelps and David Phelps , 20 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

The family would like to express their gratitude to Visiting Angel Caregiver Diane Wolff who took such wonderful care of Spencer, Elara Caring Hospice and their amazing nurses and finally the Fairport Harbor Fire Department who came to the rescue on more than one occasion.

A graveside service will be held at Mentor Cemetery on November 26th at 11:00 am with a celebration of life immediately following.

In lieu of flowers please donate to Elara Caring Hospice (ElaraFoundation.org) or Wells United Methodist food pantry (Wellschurch.org/ministries).

Eric T. Nero

Eric T. Nero age 30, passed away on November 10, 2022. Cherished son of Sheryl Nero, and Stepfather Eric Kennebrew. Loving brother of Ashley Crow, (Chris Kinsner), and Jessica Mabe (Matt). Uncle of Noah Kinsner, Evan Mabe, Ethan Mabe, and Kaylee Mabe. Eric enjoyed making people laugh,playing his guitar, and being a kid at heart. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at a later date.

Tag A. Koenig

Tag A. Koenig age 63 of Willoughby, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on November 8, 2022. Loving son of Sandy and the late Jay Koenig. Cherished husband of Deb Koenig (nee Krouse). Devoted father of Kevin Koenig, and Melissa Perme (husband Gabe). Dear brother of Kim Klein. Tag was a mechanical engineer, and a Pyro Technician Assistant. In his free time he enjoyed bike riding, camping, and being with his family. Private family services were held.

Evelyn Soke

Evelyn (Toot) Soke of Painesville Township passed away Monday November 7th 2022 at Tripoint Medical center. She was born August 14th 1949 to Lynn and Katherine Leslie. Evelyn enjoyed camping and spending time with friends. She devoted her life to her children. She loved to be with her family especially her grandchildren. She is survived by her children Frank (Katie) Soke and Erin (Donnie) Hughell. Her grandchildren Austin, Donald, Thomas, Andrew, Jayson, Gannon, and Evelyn. Her brother Harry (Marry Ann) Leslie. And many nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her parents and sisters Lynn Ruth (Earl) Ross and Georgia (Tom) Horton. A celebration of life will be announced at a later date.

Donna Marie Liebenauer

Donna Marie Liebenauer age 80 of Middlefield, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on November 6, 2022. Devoted wife of 59 ½ years to A. Charles Liebenauer Jr. Loving mother of Lora Liebenauer, and Lisa Evans (Dave), of Waterford, MI. Cherished step-grandchildren of Allison and Luke Evans. Donna was a homemaker who enjoyed visitors, and her memory will remain in her family’s hearts forever. Private family services were held. In lieu of flowers donations may be made in Donna’s name to the UH Seidman Cancer Center in Chardon, or Hospice of the Western Reserve, 17876 St. Clair, Ave., Cleveland, OH 44110.