Ronald Gary Ream

Ronald Gary Ream, 68, peacefully passed on December 19, 2023 surrounded by family.

Gary is survived by his sister Barb Wilber (Roger) and brother Dale Ream (Carole); daughter Heather Zgrabik (Richard), son Ryan Ream (Kelly), daughter Rachel Ream (Taylor Wallis); and granddaughters Kailey Steible, Avery, Delaney, and Hadley Ream.

Gary was predeceased by his father and mother Ronald and Fern Ream; sister Nancy Raines (Harley) and brother James Ream (Terry).

Gary, born 1955 in Chardon, Ohio, served in the Army during the Vietnam War and left the service in 1975.  For many years he owned his own roofing company.  Gary loved nature and his favorite hobbies included camping, snowmobiling, and boating.  Gary was a joy to be around and always found reason to celebrate, whether for special occasion or not.

A celebration of life will be held around his birthday mid-January.  The location and time will be shared by the family at a later time.  In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in his name to the Dementia Society of America (dementiasociety.org).

Teresa Rose Broadwater

Teresa Rose Broadwater (Nee: Mullins); Age 61 of Painesville, passed away Wednesday, December 13, 2023 at David Simpson Hospice House in Euclid with her family by her side.

Teresa is survived by her husband, Kenneth Broadwater, parents, Betty and Charles Mullins, and brothers, Gary, Gordon, and Sean Mullins.

She was preceded in death by her son, Jeff Rose, brother, Greg Mullins, grandparents, Claude and Thelma Mullins, and Lloyd and Flossie Scott.

Teresa was a loving and compassionate caregiver for almost 40 years. She enjoyed camping, planting flowers, and decorating her porch for every holiday. She loved her dog, Freya, who she called her baby girl.

A heartfelt thanks to the staff at the David Simpson Hospice House for their wonderful care.

A celebration of life will be held at a future date.

TAMERA L. ELDER

“I’ll remember you when I’ve forgotten all the rest. You to me were true. You to me were the best.” —

Bob Dylan, “I’ll Remember You”

Tamera Lynn Elder, 62, of Painesville, OH, sadly left us on Wednesday, December 13, 2023 following a courageous battle with cancer.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Diane A. and Eugene R. Larned and a sister Pamela Bika.

She leaves behind her daughters, Autumn and Summer Elder, her sisters, Rene' Matsko, Rachelle Elder, Kimberly Bray, and Amber Stokes, and her dear friend Jacqueline Philips. 

A heartfelt thanks to the staff at the David Simpson Hospice House for their wonderful care.

A celebration of life will be held at a future date.

Jerry D. Miller

 Jerry David Miller, age 73, of Willoughby, passed away in his home peacefully surrounded by his family on December 13, 2023. Jerry was born on July 22, 1950. Jerry work at Hi-Tech Aero for 45 years before he retired. Jerry loved to collect baseball card, football card and coins, but most of all he loved spending time with his grand kids who he love dearly. Jerry is survived by his wife of 50 years Pamela Miller, his 2 daughters Augusta (Miller) White, (Shawn), Stacey Miller (Victor Rosado), his grand kids Marissa Stofko, Daniel White, Cassandra White, and Victoria Rosado, brother Danny Miller, brother James Miller (Wanda), sister Sonny Miller, sister Linda (Miller) Shor ( Mel), and of course many nieces and nephews. Jerry was preceded in death by Edward Miller (father), Etta Miller (mother), Micky Miller (brother), and Jacob Miller (grandson).

On December 19, 2023 Jerry's family will be hosting a "Celebration of Life" at Wickliffe Country Club from 6pm to 10pm. The address is 30601 Ridge Rd in Wickliffe. Flowers can be received only the day of at Wickliffe Country Club or at Pam's house at 34424 Euclid Ave lot #247 Willoughby, OH 44094.

Robert David Guy

March 21, 1966 – December 11, 2023

 Robert David Guy was born March 21, 1966 to Karin (Rasmussen) and Robert D. Guy in Park Ridge, Illinois. He was baptized that same year at the United Methodist Church of Park Ridge. On Oct. 26, 1980, he affirmed the promises made in his baptism at St. Luke Lutheran Church, Park Ridge. There he was involved in youth group and multiple choirs.

Rob graduated Main South High School, Park Ridge in 1984. For several years, he marched with the Cavaliers Cadet and A Corps (Rosemont, IL).

He graduated from Augustana College, Rock Island in 1988, where he ran Cross Country and sang with the Augustana Choir. During his college summers he worked as the Trail Quarter Master and a Trip Leader for Lutheran Outdoor Ministries Center, Oregon, Illinois. It was there he met Juli Lejman. They married May 19, 1990 and together raised two daughters.

Rob was a commissioned officer in the United States Marine Corps having achieved the rank of Captain. He served as a Supply Officer in Desert Shield/Dessert Storm (1990-1991) where he received the "Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal".  Throughout his civilian career, Rob was a payroll and tax accountant. 

Rob’s living legacy is simple: his love for God, his family, and creation. He wrote and led many Bible studies over the years, sang in church and community choirs, and passionately researched, just to learn.

Rob is survived by his daughters Caroline Guy (Ohio) and Sarah Guy (Texas), his mother and step-father Karin and Paul Holm (Esberg, Denmark), brother Kristian Guy (Julie, Illinois), five nieces and nephews, aunts and an uncle.

Those who preceded him in death include his father, Robert D. Guy, grandparents Robert R. and Edna Guy, Hans and Agnes Clausen.

On Monday, December 11, 2023, Rob joined the saints triumphant after a lengthy illness in Mentor, Ohio.

A memorial service will be held at Advent Lutheran Church (Mentor, Ohio) on January 19, 2024. Visitation will begin at 9:30 followed by worship at 10:30. Lunch will be hosted by members of Advent Lutheran Church. Burial will be at the Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery (Seville, OH). 

Memorials may be made to Lutheran Outdoor Ministries Center (LOMC.org) or the Cavaliers (DCI) Gearworks Program (Caveliers.org/support-1). 

Renee Ann Cochran

Renee Ann Cochran, 66, of Bainbridge, Ohio, passed away on December 6, 2023. Born in Ohio in 1957, Renee's passion was cutting hair from a very young age. After receiving her Cosmetology license, she traveled to Martinique, France for hair shows and got to meet some of the most renowned Cosmetologists.  

Most of all, she was loved by many and will be remembered on how her smile could brighten up any room. Renee is survived by her children, Jacob Cochran, Monique Urban, and grandchildren, Kjristien Cochran, Kaden Urban, and Keegan Brown. 

Jean Ann Hickey

Jean Ann Hickey, 94 years young, passed away at home with her daughter by her side on December 2nd. Jean was born May 14th, 1929 in Cleveland, Ohio. She belonged to Alpha Chi Omega sorority while at Mount Union College. To no one’s surprise, she was crowned homecoming queen her sophomore year. She married James M. Hickey on August 13th, 1949. They moved several places due to Jim’s job, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Illinois. Finally settling back in Ohio. She was active in charitable groups such as Fish, Meals on Wheels, Red Cross, and American Cancer Society. She joined Daughters of the American Revolution in 1973 #577578. She loved to golf, bowl, play cards and spend time with her grandchildren and great grandchildren. Her and her companion, Gus Gleske of over 35 years, made many memories traveling and attending baseball games.

She is survived by her daughter, Karen (Michel), loving partner, Gus Gleske, her granddaughters Kelly Davis (Nate) and Kristy Morris. Her great grandchildren Zachary Baird and Eve Davis and countless  friends and family. Preceded in death are James Hickey,  her son Jim, sister Ruth, her parents, Florence and Fred.

“Is the coffee on?” A phrase we will forever hear. Playing gin rummy, making pumpkin pies, butterflies, the color purple, clip on earrings, the Cleveland Indians, Christmas gnomes, thimbles.. some of her favorite things. She was the leader of the pack, whatever gram said, we all listened. 94 beautiful years, filled with lots of love, laughter, traveling, teaching and cooking! She stood 5 feet nothing but larger than life. Had the most spunky personality, held nothing back, even when maybe she should have! Always so classy and put together, matching from head to toe. We are so thankful for the wonderful memories throughout our life we have all made with her. So special and important to so many, she touched many lives. She will forever be missed but always in our hearts.

Jean didn’t want a service, she said she outlived all her friends! She told her family that they can celebrate her any day of the week! A celebration of life will be held next year, in May around her birthday.

Robert M. Poore

Robert M. Poore passed to his eternal rest on December 1, 2023.  Robert was born on February 16, 1942 in Cleveland, Ohio.  His father, McKinley Poore and mother, Bertha Poore (nee Yeddy) are deceased.  He leaves behind his brother William Poore (Barbara)  and sister Katherine Gartner (David).   His sister, Beverly Sapatka and best friend Thomas Falkowski preceded him in death.  He was a proud uncle to Ronald Sapatka, Sharon Semick (Joseph), Thomas Sapatka, Carole Doyle (Daniel) , Robert Sapatka (Sandi), Jeffery Poore (Nora) and Daniel Poore (Alia). He also had many grand nieces and nephews.

He was a retired Cleveland postal clerk.  He enjoyed all sports, loved and supported animals and contributed to animal welfare causes.  In lieu of flowers a donation to Ohio Paws with Purpose – 28605 Lakeshore Blvd., Willowick, Ohio  44095 would be appreciated.   Bob was a friend and supporter to all.

A funeral mass will be held at St. Gabriel’s Roman Catholic Church 9925 Johnnycake Ridge Road, Mentor Ohio 44060 on Friday, December 15, 2023 at 11:00 a.m.  Burial will be at All Souls Cemetery in Chardon, Ohio at a later date.

Rita Elizabeth Hall

Rita Elizabeth Hall (nee Dobrovich), age 74, passed away peacefully on December 1, 2023 closely surrounded by her family. She is survived by her two children, Edward Hall and William (Susan) Hall and her grandchildren, Hunter Hall and Noel Spinelli, who made up the entirety of her world.   Rita was an avid sports fan who enjoyed cheering for the local Cleveland sports teams, especially the Cleveland Browns.  Rita also enjoyed family gatherings and playing cards with her loved ones and friends.
Besides her children and grandchildren, Rita is also survived by her sister, Nancy (Jim) Young, and her brothers, Joseph and Bill Dobrovich. She is also survived by several nieces and nephews whom she loved dearly, and many cousins and friends.  A service will be held privately for immediate family, but, a celebration of her life is being planned in the future.

Maureen Jasulevich

Maureen Jasulevich (nee Eiermann) 65, of Mentor, passed away November 27, 2023 surrounded by her loving family. Maureen was born March 30, 1958 in East Cleveland to the late John and Phyllis (nee Pickett) Eiermann.

Dearly beloved wife of Walter Jasulevich for 45 years. Loving mother of Jason (Stacey), and devoted grandmother of Leo and Olive Jasulevich. Sister of James (Dona) Eiermann, Denise Yanosko, Mary Ellen (Bryan) St. Clair.  Loving aunt, niece, cousin and friend to many.

Maureen was an avid reader, she loved sewing, crocheting and baking for others. She had a giving heart and was a very generous soul. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Karen A. Hochschild

Karen Ann Hochschild of Mentor-on-the-Lake, Ohio passed away peacefully on November 25, 2023, at University Hospital in Cleveland, Ohio. She was 74 years of age.  

Karen was born on January 5, 1949, in Cleveland, Ohio. After obtaining her G.E.D., she enlisted in the Army in 1968 at age 19 and served for 3 years. Karen had a few jobs, but most of her career was with Progressive Insurance which led to her retirement in 2011. 

Anyone who knew Karen knew how much she loved animals. Not only was she known for taking in strays, but she was also extremely philanthropic when it came to animal charities. She regularly contributed to the Humane Society, ASPCA, PETA, and several others. She enjoyed feeding all the animals that came into her yard, especially the birds.  

Along with her love of animals, Karen loved working in her yard and planting flowers. It's something she and her partner Bob enjoyed doing together. When she was younger, she loved to ride her motorcycle. Due to health reasons, she eventually had to hang up her helmet. More recently Karen picked up bowling, even joining a league with her brother Bobby. Music was also a favorite, especially Rock-n-Roll. Not surprisingly she played music for her animals when leaving the house. She was a member of Mentor Community Church of God. 

Karen is survived by her loving partner Robert "Bob" Hughes, brother Robert "Bobby" Hochschild, sister Debra (Hochschild) Mack, brother Ronald Hochschild, brother Leonard Hochschild, nieces and nephews Ruth (Pat) Paterson, Stephen Hochschild, Keith (Nancy) Hochschild, Christine (Donald) Ross, Daniel (Megan) Hochschild, Timothy Hebebrand, Teresa (David) Kerr, Karen (Brian) Oliver, Starson (Ellen) Hochschild, Nicole Hochschild, Diana (Fabio) Gonzalez, along with many grandnieces and grandnephews. She also leaves behind her long-time best friend Paulette Mack and beloved dog Taz. 

Karen was preceded in death by her parents Robert and Theresa (Turay) Hochschild, brother Michael Hochschild, and many animal companions. 

A Celebration of Life will be held at Mentor Community Church of God, 8245 Munson Rd, Mentor-on-the-Lake, OH on Saturday, January 6, 2024, at 11:00 a.m.

Interment will be at the Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery in Seville, Ohio on a later date. 

Karen Lynn Fryman

Karen Lynn Fryman (nee Heaton) of Willowick passed away on Friday, November 24, 2023. She was born on June 14, 1963 to Richard and Donna Heaton. Karen enjoyed listening to music, going to concerts, watching movies, spending time with her family and working at Curves while living in Pennsylvania, where she loved working out and motivating others to reach their goals. Karen is survived by her sister Kimberly Trinkle, nieces Ashley Trinkle (Jennifer George), Kayla Trinkle (Celeste Zimmerman). She is preceded in death by her father Richard Heaton, brother Keith Heaton and mother Donna Heaton.  

A private memorial will be held at a later date. 

James P. Durket

James P. Durket, age 63. Loving partner of Amy Jaklich for 22 years; son of Peter and Catherine (both deceased); brother of Michael and the following deceased Cathy, Susie, and John. Devoted uncle and great-uncle of many. Jimmy was known for his BIG heart, sense of humor, and his devotion to his cats.  He was an animal lover, compassionate, kind, and giving. Jimmy was a dear friend to many and will be deeply missed.

A Celebration Of Life gathering will be held on Friday, December 15, 2023 from 4:30 – 8:30 p.m. in the back hall of the PLAV 850 East 200th. St. Cleveland, OH 44119.

Clifford Franklin Long Jr.

Clifford F. Long Jr.,age 55, died peacefully on Friday, November 10th, 2023 at Ohman Family Living at Briar in Middlefield, Ohio due to complications arising from a Solitary Fibrous Tumor of the Central Nervous System

Clifford was born July 17th, 1968 in Lititz, Pennsylvania. He moved to Slanesville, West Virginia as a young boy.

Known as "Junior" in his youth,  Clifford was a graduate of Hampshire High School Class of 1986 in Romney, West Virginia where he played the Trombone in Marching Band.  After graduation he played Trumpet in a Jazz band.  His love for music continued throughout his life and he played many instruments including Saxophone, Drums and Keyboard. He loved Big Band music and hated Rock and Roll because it is too repetitive.  He especially enjoyed singing with the entire congregation and would attempt to sing harmony with anyone sitting near him at Christian meetings and conventions.

Clifford and Jenny Leigh Talcott were married on December 11th, 1993 in Ravenna, Ohio, where they eventually settled and spent 30 years together, doing their best to live a peaceful, simple life as volunteer ministers; sharing their faith and hope with the community as members of the Ravenna, Ohio Congregation of Jehovah's Witnesses and formerly members of the Romney, West Virginia Congregation.  One positive result of Clifford's disability is that, for awhile, it allowed him to devote all of his time and energy to the ministry and he had the joy and privilege of serving as a Regular Pioneer for a year, until his condition deteriorated. Clifford firmly adhered to Jesus words when he said,  "you received free; give free", so while his heart was in the ministry, he made his money by other means.  He was a semi dump truck driver and heavy equipment operator for many years and then he focused on hauling freight, finally ending his career as a yard manager / diesel mechanic / driver until July 2021 when the brain tumor was discovered.

In his early twenties, Junior was a volunteer Firefighter with the Slanesville Volunteer Fire Department Company 5 and Levels Volunteer Fire Department Company 6.  He also volunteered as an EMT with Romney Rescue Squad Company 11, until he moved to Ohio in 1995.

In addition to his wife, Jenny Leigh Long (Talcott), Clifford is survived by his siblings Lester Long of San Antonio, Texas, Naomi Long and Walter Long (Jennie) both of Slanesville, West Virginia, also many extended family members and in-laws, as well as a couple of dozen nieces and nephews and Grand nieces and Grand nephews.

He also leaves behind many health care workers who took such good care of him during his final months, but the following 5 touched his heart and he viewed them as being his family: (the other)Jenny, Jessica, Kate, Richard and Shar.

Clifford asked that no funeral or memorial service be held, in accord with his own long held personal opinions and wishes.  However he wanted all to know about his sure hope for the future when his favorite Bible verse, Isaiah 65:17 will be fulfilled. "For look! I am creating new heavens and a new earth; And the former things will not be called to mind, Nor will they come up into the heart." 

His desire is that everyone reading this, please watch the 3 minute video at the following link that briefly explains his belief in a physical resurrection to perfect life forever, right here on earth.  His focus on that promise and the joy that he looked forward to is what helped him to endure life's difficulties, faithful to his God, Jehovah, right down to the end.  

https://www.jw.org/finder?srcid=share&wtlocale=E&lank=docid-502017858_1_VIDEO

Robert George Klabik “Bob”

Robert George Klabik “Bob” born on December 27, 1940 passed peacefully on November 7, 2023. Beloved husband of Margaret Ann (nee Jochum); father of Kelly Ann Lloyd (Joseph), Shannon Marie Underwood (Les), Robin Kish (Keith), Robert William (Jennifer), Brad Allen (Adrianne), and Trevor James (Erin); grandfather of Paulette, Jacqueline Gonzalez (Jose), Christopher; Joshua; Keith, Kasey, Kodey; Addisyn, Alexander; Bennett, Knox, Duncan and Quinn; great-grandfather of Lilliana Gonzalez. Cherished son of the late Mary Elizabeth (nee Hepner) and William F.; brother of William F. Jr. “Sonny” (Ann Pritt) (both dec,), Dennis “Butch” (Lauralee, dec.); uncle and great-uncle of many. Bob retired from Solon Schools where he taught Math and Woodshop for 31 yrs. During his career, he coached soccer, gymnastics and tennis. Sports were Bob’s passion starting in high school where he placed second in state for wrestling. As an adult when he was not on a golf course, you could find him working in his garden. He will be deeply missed. 

All are welcome to the Mass of Resurrection on Saturday, November 18, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Rita’s Church 32820 Baldwin Rd. Solon, OH. 44139. The family will receive friends at the Church 1 hr. prior to mass. www.blessingcremation.com

Deborah R. Fulmer

Deborah Fulmer age 72, passed away peacefully in hospice on the morning of November 6th, 2023. Deborah is survived by her sister Pamela Rife, son Damien ( Dawn) Fulmer and grandsons Gavin and Bryce Fulmer. She is preceded in death by her parents Leonard and Patricia Rife, her husband Raymond Kriha and sister Susan Rife.

Per Deborah’s request, no services will be held.

Ralph Eugene Masten

November 6, 2023

Ralph Eugene Masten passed away peacefully in the Sandusky Firelands hospital five days after his birthday and two days following his 100th birthday celebration.  He was born at home in Sandusky (less than 1,000 feet from the hospital where his life ended) to Amelia Johnson, a daughter of Swedish immigrants, and to Edward Masten, a Lake Erie fish tug captain at the time.  In 1923 they had just relocated from Port Clinton with their four other children (Warren, Howard, Helen & Clifford), the last of whom passed in 1997.  He was preceded in death by his loving wife Mary Westerhold in 2006 after 59 years of marriage.  The last 50 of those were lived at their two-story bungalow home in Wickliffe, Ohio where they managed to raise ten children and 2 grandchildren.

Surviving him are seven children: Steve, Patti Ranallo, Jude, Joe, Rich, Mike, and Jim.  Three children predeceased him: Mary Jo McCallion (1988), Tom (2013) and Don (2018). There are 16 grand and 12 great grandchildren.

Shortly following graduation from Sandusky High School (1942) he served three years in the army during WW2 in England and Belgium following the D-Day invasion.  His duties involved ordnance transportation logistics at the Port of Antwerp during its prolonged V-2 rocket bombardment.  His four-volume memoir of that experience now reside in the Library of Congress’ Veterans History Project Collection.

The GI Bill helped him in acquiring a chemical engineering degree from Fenn College (now Cleveland State University).  This landed him a 35-year career as a staff engineer with the Lubrizol Corp. from which he took early retirement in 1986 to care full-time for Mary who was increasingly in need of help during her 34-year battle with multiple sclerosis.

His interests were many, including computer programming, geography and memoir writing.  He and Mary enjoyed many car trips across most of the lower 48 states, sometimes with various children and also with Ralph’s sister Helen Mickens and Mary’s sister Ruth Riley.  The two of them managed to visit the continental 49 states; Ralph eventually checked off Hawaii.

The family is extremely grateful for all the heartfelt thoughts and prayers.  A special thank you is extended to all the wonderful caregivers at the Commons of Providence Assisted Living Facility and the Providence Care Rehab Center.

A combined graveside service for the interment of Ralph’s and Mary’s cremains is to be held next Spring at All Souls Cemetery, Chardon OH.

William Richard "Rick" Allison

William Richard “Rick” Allison, age 69, of Mentor, left us peacefully surrounded by his family on November 4, 2023. Loving husband of Kathy. Devoted father of Eric, Dawn & Adam Allison, and Angie Jones (David). Cherished grandfather of Starla and Carter Allison, Lydia and Lucy Jones. Brother of Lori Miska and Garry Allison. He is preceded in death by his parents William and Dolores Allison, and his grandson Tyler Allison. Rick’s hobbies included collecting beer memorabilia, trips to the casino with his daughter, and driving his dune buggy. He was an Army Veteran, who served his country. He enjoyed hosting parties at his home, and bartending. Rick enjoyed vacations to Put-in-Bay and the Outer Banks. He will be dearly missed by all, and will forever be in our hearts. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at a later date. Please share your favorite memory of Rick below.

Valerie Mehalic

Valerie Mehalic took flight with the angels on Saturday, November 4, 2023 following a lengthy and private battle with cancer. Valerie was at peace in her home, held by her husband Mitchell and circled in love by her daughters and siblings.

Born in western Pennsylvania, where Valerie and Mitch met camping in the early 70s, Val relocated immediately after their connection. Moving to Willoughby in 1973, Valerie would become a Cleveland loyal and always considered Mentor her home. Val and Mitch raised their daughters in Mentor and created the same home Val was welcomed to by Chuck and Lillian Mehalic when she moved. Neighbors and strangers alike knew the safe space created by a Mehalic home, and Valerie carried what she learned, proudly, while instilling it in another generation.

Valerie and Mitchell were together over 50 years, celebrating their 45th anniversary together this past June. They were covered in the colors of their wedding and memories of the music, sights, people and love that started their legacy. To witness the way they looked at each other was a blessing in itself—may their love transcend with all who have loved them as well. It is the greatest honor to their testimony of devotion, strength, and unconditional love.

Valerie worked in many places before raising her girls and others in her own day care in the 1980s. She went back to school and work when her daughters were small, with the perfect partnership to foster both family and each other. Valerie would go on to graduate with her Associate’s Degree alongside her daughter Ariane, one of the proudest days of her life. Val valued not just higher learning, but true knowledge. Her success was simply a side effect of her drive and desire to always be the best she could at anything she attempted.

Some of the moments she really proved her drive and power were when Val was in “Mom Mode.” Her daughters treasure the sacrifices Valerie made to provide incredible core memories of concerts in the 80s and 90s, along with the others she made. Val was protective to the core, and appreciated when others would do the same. Just like many turn to Mitch for their car questions, anyone could turn to Valerie to answer anything else. She was knowledgeable about so much and always ready to “go to bat” for someone she cared about and a cause she believed. Not only did she love unconditionally, as her eldest can gratefully attest, but she did so fiercely. To be loved by Valerie was a true blessing.

Valerie and Mitchell were married at St. Bede in 1978 and attended the church with their family through their time at home together. For more than 20 years Valerie and Mitch worked together at Hasek Automotive, where they made countless connections spanning multiple cities. When Mitch came back to work in Lake County, Val went to work at CGI Federal downtown. She loved a challenge and proved it with perpetual promotions and growing responsibility. Val thrived effortlessly at management, especially in her last position as a financial analyst.

Valerie wore her heart on her sleeve and never minced words. She let you know how she felt about you and did so with purpose. If she shared an anecdote with you, or most of all a song, know that’s her sign. Val did everything with intention, and expressed herself uniquely. She was so grateful to have so much love around her, and will continue to remind us of it with joy.

There will be no services at Valerie’s request, and family is wordlessly grateful for the support received in the last two weeks. Gratitude to local families, friends, and businesses who have been generous with gifts, nourishment, and support. Eternal gratitude to the Longo family and its Friday night Mentor Ave. crew, Mitch’s coworkers at Gerber Collision, Ariane’s family at Dr. Philip J. Weiss and associates, and CGI Federal for their ongoing support of the Mehalics. The staff at Hillcrest Hospital and Hospice of the Western Reserve hold special places with the family for their compassion in caring for Valerie. 

Valerie was welcomed home by their first baby, Shanna Lynn; her father Paul, in-laws Chuck and Lillian, sister Patti Marie, dear friends Mary Ann (Don) Crooker, and protective brothers-in-law Mike Goodnight and recently, Charles Oblich.

Celebrating Valerie’s legacy, her one true soulmate and only love, Mitchell Mehalic of Mentor; daughters Michelle (Kristoffer) Mehalic and Ariane (Ryan) Kirschner support Mitch in this time. Blessed to have the best grandma in the world are Anthony Jr, Avalon, and Ryan. Valerie has also been a loving and FUN aunt to over 25 nieces and nephews, over 21 great nieces and nephews-- one on the way, and one making her entrance the same hour Valerie crossed realms. So many blessings of life! Brought to us thanks to Valerie’s amazing siblings: Randy & Vickie, Faith and Donald, Jennifer, Paul Joseph, Matthew, Damian & Sheila, Charles and Heidi, John & Stacy, Gary & Mica, Patti & Bruce, Loren, Lynley, and Deidre & Kent. Valerie’s mother Mary, 93, brought it all together over 50 years ago. We are all so blessed to be part of such a major circle of love! Valerie’s extended family went beyond blood and for that, we are all truly grateful.

Mitchell and his daughters have appreciated the privacy and support from the community and look forward to individual contact when scheduled. With gratitude and love, the Mehalic family looks forward to carrying Valerie’s compassionate and magical spirit through Mentor forever. 

James Bickley

James Benton Bickley, called Jimmy by friends and family, passed away on November 2, 2023, at the age of 74 in Mentor, Ohio. Born in Euclid, Ohio, Jimmy was a beloved member of his community.

Jimmy was an exceptional guitarist and had the privilege of playing with several local bands throughout his life.

He possessed a natural talent for mechanics and spent many weekends working on his cars. One of his most remarkable achievements was when he bought and rebuilt an old Jaguar.

Jim's love for the outdoors was evident in the spontaneous camping trips he would take with his friends.

He had a listening ear and constant smile and was a friend to all. Known as a witty jokester, his infectious personality touched the lives of everyone who knew him.

Jim also had a spiritual side that caused him to ask questions and look to the Bible for answers.

Jim is survived by his three adoring sisters, Laverne (Edwin deceased) White, Yvonne (Jerome deceased) Spencer, Mary (Michael) Hamilton,  brother-in-law Leroy Wells and two ex-wives Shirley Bickley and Tommie Bickley. He was the loving uncle to 28 nieces and nephews and to many, many great nieces and nephews. Not to be forgotten are the numerous cousins whose lives he shared.

He was preceded in death by his loving parents, Mary and William Lloyd Bickley, as well as his sisters Jean Wells, Ida (Oliver) Coleman, Shirley (Zerubbabel “Joe”) Evans, and a brother, William “Billy” Bickley.

After a successful career that spanned over 30 years, Jim retired from General Electric having held several positions. His dedication and hard work earned him the respect of his colleagues and the admiration of his loved ones.

In honor of Jim's life, the family will hold a private ceremony at a later date. The memories and legacy of Jimmy will forever be cherished by those who had the privilege of knowing him.