Records Tributes 2007-01-11
Phyllis G. Antonelli, 88
NILES – Phyllis G. Antonelli, 88, of 2565 Niles-Vienna Road, died at 8:40 p.m. Tuesday at Autumn Hills Care Center.
She was born Sept. 10, 1918 in Niles, the daughter of Phillip and Filomena LaSalandra Muche.
Phyllis was a sales associate at Strouss’ Department Store in the Eastwood Mall for four years and was a member of the Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church in Niles and its Rosary Society and Catholic Women’s Guild. She enjoyed cooking and baking.
Her husband, Renato D. “Tony” Antonelli, whom she married Sept. 23, 1939, died Oct. 28, 2004.
She will be deeply missed by two sons, Richard Antonelli and wife Marianne of Westlake and Kenneth Antonelli and wife Donah of Darien, Conn.; two brothers, Sam D’Antuono of Niles and Anthony D’Antuono of San Diego; four sisters, Mary Pavone of Lackawana, N.Y., Regina Paris of Canton, Tomasina Naples of Niles and Eleanor D’Antuono of Niles; and three grandchildren, Carla Knarr and husband Don, Jamie and Adam Antonelli.
She was preceded in death by a brother, Louis Joseph Muche.
Friends may call from 10 to 11 a.m. Saturday at the Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic Church in Niles, where there will be a Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m.
Memorial contributions may be made to the church, 381 Robbins Ave., Niles, OH 44446.
Arrangements are by the Joseph Rossi Funeral Home in Niles.
Visit www.josephrossifuneralhome.com to send condolences.
Michael J. Bochenek, 91
YOUNGSTOWN – There will be funeral services Saturday at 9:30 a.m. at the Vaschak-Kirila Funeral Home and at 10 a.m. at St. Stanislaus Catholic Church for Mr. Mike J. Bochenek, 91, who passed away early Monday at Forum Health Center.
He was born in 1915 in Passaic, N.J., the son of John and Katherine (Tetla) Bochenek.
Mike was employed in the Pipe Shop Department of Youngstown Sheet & Tube and later retired from Youngstown State University.
He was a member of St. Stanislaus Church, where he volunteered as an usher and pierogi worker for many years. He was also a member of the Senior Citizens and the Infant Jesus of Prague Society at the church.
Mike was a 3rd Degree member of the Struthers Knights of Columbus. His passion was working with the youth. He was very active in the Babe Ruth and Youngstown Pony League, where he received many awards. He was also a member of the Y.S.U. PERS Retirees, Chapter 18.
He is survived by his wife, Evelyn (Yozwiak) Bochenek; a son, Michael (Judy) Bochenek; a grandson, Brian; granddaughters, Amy Bloss and Heather (Rob) Alexandre; two great-grandchildren, Mia and Skyler Alexandre; a brother, Frank (Pauline) Bochenek; a sister, Frances (Jack) Vicarel; a niece; and several nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; stepfather, Alex Adamczyk; a sister, Stella Racine; and infant brothers, Joseph and Louis.
Friends may call from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday at the funeral home, where a prayer service will be at 4:45 p.m.
Please visit www.vaschak-kirilafh.com to view this obituary or send condolences to the family.
Vaschak-Kirila Funeral Home, Dedicated To Serving Since 1907
Leroy Booker, 55
DETROIT – Memorial services will be held at 6 p.m. Friday at the Washington Funeral Home for Leroy Booker, 55, who departed this life Thursday in Detroit.
Mr. Booker was born March 6, 1951 in Youngstown, a son of Lee Arthur and Helen Perry Booker.
He was a graduate of Youngstown State University where he obtained a B.S. in computer science.
He was employed as an independent contractor providing computer programming throughout the country.
He enjoyed playing tennis, and photography was one of his hobbies.
He leaves to cherish his memory his three sons, Leroy Booker, Nathaniel Booker and Jonathan Booker, all of West Bloomfield, Mich.; three sisters, Barbara Hills of Youngstown, Asilene Booker of Austintown and Helen Booker of West Bloomfield; two brothers, Sebb Booker of Youngstown and Joe Booker of Columbus; his nieces, Iesha Hills of Youngstown and Laraye Wright of Warren; a nephew, Robert Hills Jr. of Youngstown; and a host of other relatives and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Lee Arthur Booker Jr.
Friends may call from 5:30 to 6 p.m. Friday at the funeral home.
The Rev. Richard W. Braun, 84
YOUNGSTOWN – The Rev. Richard W. Braun, 84, Presbyterian Church, (U.S.A.), minister for 55 years and longtime resident of Youngstown, died peacefully with his family by his side of complications from age on Jan. 7 at Forum Health North Side Medical Center.
He was born Nov. 29, 1922 in Chicago and spent his childhood in the Dakotas growing up in a German Baptist home and faith, son of The Rev. Henry G. Braun and Bertha Ziehmer Braun.
His wife Becky and his sisters Doris Bailey, of Baltimore and Norma Files of Ellicott City, Md., survive him. He also is survived by his two children, Richard Harper Braun (Mary Frances) of Cleveland and Elizabeth Louise Braun of Columbus and his grandchildren, Trevor Harper, and Marisa Elizabeth.
His parents and brothers William, Warren and Ralph preceded him in death.
A WWII veteran, Rev. Braun enlisted into the U.S. Army during university schooling and served with the 14th Armored Division (The Liberators) in the European Theater of Operations as a tank driver from 1942 to 1946. He was awarded the Bronze Star Medal for Heroic Achievement and the Purple Heart.
He attended Dakota Wesleyan University, University of Pittsburgh Law School for one year and graduated Pittsburgh Xenia Theological Seminary in 1951.
Rev. Braun was ordained and installed into his first pastorate at Blairsville United Presbyterian Church, Blairsville, Pa., continued his ministry at Jennings United Presbyterian Church in St. Louis from 1953 to 1962 and was called to serve at John Knox Presbyterian Church in Youngstown, where he was a pastor for 39 years.
Rev. Braun married Rebecca McKnight, his beloved wife of 60 years in 1946, in New Wilmington, Pa. In 1951 they served at Rev. Braun's first pastorate, Blairsville U.P. The seed of interest in mission work, planted at an early age, naturally grew during his 55-year ministry, and developed into a guiding passion throughout his life and work.
It was during his pastorate at Jennings U.P that Rev. Braun’s ministry in local, national and global mission began. Upon he and his family coming to Youngstown in 1962, where Rev. Braun served as pastor of John Knox Presbyterian, his mission-centered ministry flourished, and was integral to his work of the Church, in the community, and with his personal and professional relationships.
A gifted preacher, Rev. Braun demonstrated concern and compassion for poor, oppressed and disadvantaged people, which were the hallmark of his ministry as a person, and pastor of John Knox.
He was a member of Eastminster Presbytery, active at all levels of the Presbyterian denomination and with his community, including serving on Eastminster's Ministerial Relations, Mission, Theology & Worship, Bicentennial Fund committees, holding several leadership roles during his ministry chairing Synod of The Covenant's Stewardship Committee and PC (USA) Œs National and International Committees on Self-Development of People and in Youngstown’s community, starting Happening House recreational center for neighborhood youth. He co-founded with Irma Davis, Needles Eye and Southside Ministries, with Marie Wolf, Fish-Samaritan House, was charter member, Youngstown Citizen’s League and first pastor and congregation to join ACTION.
Rev. Braun joined the Selma to Montgomery marches with Martin Luther King Jr. in 1965. Through his work at John Knox with a strong lay-team, he was instrumental in bringing the Meals-on-Wheels program to John Knox in 1980, offered to the community a sensory program, Joy of Christmas for developmentally and physically disabled for five years, led more than 30 annual mission work teams nationally and globally and a congregation that gave more than 2 million dollars to mission initiatives and enterprises during his pastorate and served as trustee on the boards of Needle’s Eye, Southside Ministries and Meals-on-Wheels.
He retired in 2001 and continued in active ministry, serving joyfully as interim pastor at North Benton, Kinsman, Ellsworth and Brownlee Woods Presbyterian Churches and since 2003, as Moderator of Ethiopia Education Endowment Fund, an outgrowth of his last foreign mission field visit leading a short-term mission team, and the organization which he was honored to have co-founded.
An avid golfer, Steelers fan, community activist and devoted grandfather to his grandchildren, Rev. Braun was more than anything a faithful servant of Jesus Christ who followed Christ’s call sharing his time, talents and gifts given by God. He served those who were broken and believers in Christ. He challenged, encouraged and led all those who sought to share Christ’s love in this world and the message of the Gospel. He thought globally, acted compassionately, and served selflessly.
A memorial service celebrating Richard Braun’s life will be at 4 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 13, at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 119 Stadium Drive in Boardman, (330) 758-4513, followed by a reception for family and friends.
Memorials in his honor should be sent to the Ethiopia Education Endowment Fund, Presbyterian Foundation, attn: Ethiopia Education Endowment Fund, acct: 1020094021. Mail checks to P.O. Box 406863, Atlanta, GA 30384-6863.
Contact a Foundation representative at (800) 858-6127 for planned gifts. Visit www.ethioeddow.org for messages of condolences and shared memories.
Arrangements by Thompson Funeral Home, 4221 Market St., Youngstown, OH 44512, (330) 788-6568.
Visit www.thompsonfuneralhome. hboy.com online.
Yolanda Elaine Burkes, 54
YOUNGSTOWN – There will be a funeral service at 10 a.m. Saturday at the F.D. Mason Memorial Funeral Home for Yolanda Elaine Burkes, 54, who went to be with the Lord on Friday, Jan. 5.
Ms. Burkes, affectionately known as "Ms. Yo," was born Oct. 29, 1952 in Youngsotwn, a daughter of Calvin and Betty J, Clinkscale Burkes.
She was a homemaker, enjoyed cooking and helping any way she could and enjoyed all of her 15 grandchildren.
She leaves her loving lifetime companion, Jerome Hicks; three daughters, Keysha L. Burkes, Michelle L. Burkes and LaToya J. Burkes; her daughters' father, John F. Gibson; her stepfather, Robert Leftwich; two sisters, Pearl Gibson and Pinkie (James) Randall; two nieces, Nicole and Kikki; a nephew, Mark; three stepchildren, Cassandra Beachem and Robert and Johnathan Gibson, all of Youngstown; her best friend, Reemer Echols; and a host of family and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents and a daughter, Tamika Hicks.
Viewing will be from noon to 4 p.m. Friday and friends may call from 9 to 10 a.m. Saturday at the funeral home.
Christopher Joseph Continenza, 44
BOARDMAN – Services will be Saturday at 9:30 a.m. at the Fox Funeral Home and at 10 a.m. at Saint Charles Church for Christopher Joseph Continenza, 44, who died Tuesday evening at Forum Health Northside Medical Center Emergency Room.
He was born Dec. 5, 1962, in Youngstown, a son of Joseph and Bess Ann Blunt Continenza.
Mr. Continenza was a 1982 graduate of Boardman High School and graduated from ITT with a degree in computer programming. He was employed at Rapid at Delphi in Warren, then with Ernst & Young in Cleveland and then at Magical Computing Solutions.
He was a member of Saint Charles Church and of the support group for I.B.M. (Inclusion Body Miosis) in Pittsburgh. He had a passion for science, astronomy and for science fiction.
He was loved by his family. He leaves his mother and father of Boardman; his brothers, Timothy Continenza of Columbus and Michael Continenza of Boardman; his sister and brother-in-law, Cynthia and Steven Work of Boardman; his nephew, Spensor Work of Boardman.
Friends may call from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday at the funeral home.
Contributions may be made to the Muscular Dystrophy Association, 1655 W. Market St., Suite 340, Akron, OH 44313
Family and friends may visit www.foxfuneralhome.org to view this obituary and send condolences.
John S. Dzuroff Jr., 81
BOARDMAN – There will be funeral services Friday at 9 a.m. at the Vaschak-Kirila Funeral Home and at 9:30 a.m. at the Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Church for John S. Dzuroff Jr., 81 who entered into rest Tuesday at Beeghley Medical Park.
He was born April 23, 1925 in Youngstown, the son of the late John and Anna (Danko) Dzuroff.
He served in the U.S. Navy for three years, receiving the European African Ribbon with one star, the Asiatic Pacific Ribbon with two stars, the Philippine Liberation Ribbon and the American Area Ribbon.
He was employed for 38 years as a welder for L.T.V. Steel Co., retiring in 1984. He was a member of the church, the Sokol Wreath 132 and the Solidarity.
Mr. Dzuroff will be sadly missed by many, including his wife, Bette Forehope Kavinsky Dzuroff, whom he married July 10, 1954; a daughter, Deborah L. Kopanic of Boardman; and two grandchildren, Jimmy and Jennifer.
Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Stephen Dzuroff; and a sister, Agnes Popovich.
Friends may call from 5 to 8 p.m. today at the funeral home.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the Rich Center for Autism.
Please visit at www.vaschak-kirilafh.com to view this obituary or to send condolences to the family.
Vaschak-Kirila Funeral Home, Dedicated To Serving Since 1907
Charles H. Fry, 86
FOWLER – Charles H. Fry, 86, died Monday afternoon at the Autumn Hills Care Center.
Charles was born Nov. 21, 1920 in Greenville, Pa., and had formerly worked at Republic Steel and retired from Youngstown Sheet and Tube after 30 years of service.
He had served in the U.S. Army during WWII, serving in the Battle of the Bulge and receiving three Bronze Stars.
Charles loved boating and fishing.
Charles is survived by his former wife Esther (Albaugh) Loutzenhiser. He leaves two sons, Gary (Rena) Fry of Crestwood, Ky., and Robert (Jodi) Fry of New Windsor, Md.; a half-brother Jim Fry of Greenville, Pa.; and 13 grandchildren. He also leaves a life long friend Lee Booty, of Vienna, and numerous friends and treasured family members.
He was preceded in death by two sons, Charles Fry Jr. and William Fry.
There are no calling hours or funeral services.
Lane Funeral Home, Austintown Chapel in charge of arrangements.
Friends and family may visit www.lanefuneralhomes.com to view the obituary and send condolences.
Dr. Henry J. Grossi, 57
TAKOMA PARK, MD. – Dr. Henry J. Grossi, 57, passed away Saturday Dec. 30, 2006, at Casey House Hospice Hospital of neck cancer.
He was born April 14, 1949 in Youngstown, a son of Henry and Veronica Grossi.
Dr. Grossi graduated from Ursuline High school and Catholic University of America. He held a doctorate in musicology and a masters degree in library science, both from Catholic University. Up until the time of his death, he was director of Reader Services at the music division of the Library of Congress. Formerly, he was director of the music library at Catholic University and an adjunct part time member at the Benjamin T. Rome School of Music.
Earlier in his life, he had a culinary career, a graduate of the LaVarenne Ecole du Cuisine in Paris, France, and was involved in the development of various culinary series publications at Time Life Books.
His interests included the study of languages, and was fluent in French and Italian, had a good knowledge of German, Mandarin Chinese and Pali. During the last year of his life, he devoted intensive efforts in learning Japanese.
He is survived by his parents; a brother, Larry Grossi; a sister-in-law, Cheryl; his nieces, Lauren and Kara; and a nephew Brian. He also leaves his longtime companion, Jim Colliver and dear friends, John Aler and Ted Benton, all of Maryland. He also leaves many longtime friends in the Washington area.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents and infant brother.
There will be a memorial service at 1:15 p.m. Monday, Jan. 15, for Dr. Grossi at Cedar Lane Unitarian Universalist Church in Bethesda, Md.
The family will greet friends and relatives at a Mass for the living at 11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 10, at St. Brendan Church in Youngstown.
Donations in Henry’s memory may be made to St. Brendan Church, Montgomery Hospice, 1355 Piccard Drive, Suite 100, Rockville, MD 20850, or to a charity of donor’s choice.
Phyllis J. Hart, 92
CANNONSBURG, PA. – Phyllis J. Hart, 92, died Friday, Jan. 5, at ManorCare Health Services in McMurray, Pa.
She was born Dec. 21, 1914 in Youngstown, a daughter of the late Silvio and Rose Marie Garnet Mele.
She attended the South Hills Assembly of God in Bethel Park and was a homemaker.
Her husband, Raymond Hart, whom she married in June of 1937 in Youngstown, died in 1995.
Surviving are two daughters, Bernadette Gardner of Bethel Park and Marie Taese of Youngstown; two sisters, Janet Ignazio and Mary Mesarich, both of Youngstown; five grandchildren, Harry, Cheryl, Susan, Marie and Amanda; and six great-grandchildren.
Interment was held Monday, Jan. 8, at Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Youngstown.
Arrangements are being handled by the Piatt & Barnhill Funeral Directors in Washington, Pa.
Willie Johnson, 92
YOUNGSTOWN – Services will be Saturday, Jan. 13, at 10 a.m. at the Beulah Temple United Holy Church for Mr. Willie Johnson, 92, of who departed this life Tuesday, Jan. 9, at Forum Health Northside Medical Center.
Mr. Johnson was born March 19, 1914 in Fort White, Fla., a son of William and Elizabeth Bell Johnson, coming to this area in 1946.
He had been employed with Republic Steel (LTV) for many years before retiring in the late 1970s. He was a member of Beulah Temple United Holy Church, where he served as Deacon and was a Sunday School teacher.
His wife, the former Jennie Hills, whom he married April 21, 1935, passed away Oct. 27, 1995.
He leaves to cherish his memory his sister-in-law and legal guardian, Rosena Hills of Youngstown; his sister, Bertha Thomas of Gainesville, Fla.; two nephews; two nieces and other family and friends.
Besides his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by two sisters and two brothers.
Friends may call from 9 to 10 a.m. Saturday at the church.
Arrangements entrusted to the L.E. Black, Phillips & Holden Funeral Home.
Sylvia G. Kirsch, 65
YOUNGSTOWN – Services will be at 11 a.m. Saturday at the Fox Funeral Home, Boardman for Sylvia G. Kirsch, 65, who died Wednesday morning at her residence.
Sylvia was born June 23, 1941, in Youngstown, a daughter of Herman and Florence Hector Dixon and was a lifelong area resident.
She attended Chaney High School. As a young girl, she worked at Idora Park, the Bonanza Bar and Develco Tool & Die. She was a member of Bible Baptist Temple.
Her husband, John J. Kirsch, whom she married Dec. 28, 1973, died Dec. 16, 1994.
She leaves two daughters, Danyal Kirsch of Youngstown and Dianna (Daniel) Coley of Girard; four sons, Edward J. Kirsch of Youngstown, John J. (Mary Ann) Kirsch Jr. of Youngstown, Randy Kirsch of Youngstown and Nicholas G. (Penny) Kirsch of Stanley, N.C.; three sisters, Betty Ann Potts of Boardman, Edna Mae Getsy of Youngstown and Ginger Laird of Boardman; 10 grandchildren, Anthony, Michael and Sylvia Kirsch, Danyal Coley, DeAnna Logan, Brock Kirsch, Kelly Marenkovic, Jordan Bissell, Deborah Schmidt and Dayne Kirsch; and four great-grandchildren.
Besides her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by a brother, Jack Dixon and a great grandchild, Lana Logan.
Friends may call from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday at the funeral home.
Family and friends may visit www.foxfuneralhome.org to view this obituary and send condolences.
Theresa Langenheim, 80
YOUNGSTOWN – Theresa Langenheim, 80, died Tuesday at her residence surrounded by her family.
Mrs. Langenheim was born April 11, 1926 in Youngstown, a daughter of John and Nancy Orfino Zucco.
She was a loving homemaker and was a member of the Trinity Fellowship Church.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, William, who died in August of 2004; and a brother, Peter Zucco.
She leaves children, Diana (Ed) Byrdy of Liberty, Linda (Don) Monaco of Boardman, Mary Jo (David) Mitchell of Boardman and David (Valerie) Langenheim of Canfield; two brothers, Prosper (Mary) Zucco of Youngstown and Samuel (Irma) Zucco of California; three sisters, Martha Rella of Liberty, Magdalene Pesa of Boardman and Rose Tallerino of Youngstown; grandchildren, Dina DeRenzis, Kenneth, Justin, Chase, and Micah Hoover, Jared and Joel Monaco, Joshua and Alyssa Langenheim; and great-grandchildren, Nathaniel, Rachel, Hannah, Brianna DeRenzis and Cameron, Morgan, Carlie, and Tyler Hoover.
There will be funeral services at 10:30 a.m. Saturday at the Trinity Fellowship Church, 4749 South Ave. in Boardman, where friends may call Friday from 5 to 8 p.m. and Saturday from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m.
Arrangements are being handled by the Anthony Family Funeral Homes.
Please visit www.kakfh.com to view this obituary and send condolences.
Michael “Butch” G. Loncar Sr., 65
YOUNGSTOWN – Michael “Butch” G. Loncar Sr., 65, died this past Monday morning.
He was born Sept. 27, 1941 in Sharon, Pa., to Michael “Mickey” and Pauline (Golubic) Loncar.
Mike attended Wilson High School and was the founder and operator of AAA Quality Cleaning, which he owned for 45 years. He was a member of the Victory Christian Center in Coitsville and the Youngstown Deaf Club and the Hands of Praise deaf choir.
Friends and family who knew Mike knew he was a devoted New York Yankees fan and an Ohio State Buckeyes fan.
He leaves his seven children, Lisa (Scott) Belding of Columbiana, Michael Loncar Jr. of Taiwan and Christopher Loncar, Jenna Loncar, Justin Loncar, Tyler Loncar and Julie Loncar, all of Warren, and two grandchildren, Aidan and Maura Belding of Columbiana.
There will be a memorial service in celebration of his life at 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 13, at Victory Christian Center, 3899 McCartney Road in Coitsville Township.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions be made towards his children.
Gloria Jean Miller, 72
AUSTINTOWN – There will be services at 11 a.m. Saturday at Higgins-Reardon Funeral Home Austintown Chapel for Gloria Jean Miller, 72, who passed away Tuesday at Briarfield Manor.
Gloria was born August 5, 1934 in Youngstown, a daughter of Jack and Florence Pearson Singleton.
Gloria was a 1952 graduate of Rayen High School. She was a member of Immaculate Heart of Mary Church. She was a participant of the 2005 Women’s Renewal and became a member of the 2006 Women’s Renewal Team at the church.
She enjoyed bowling and was a member of the church's bowling league. She also enjoyed fishing and crocheting. She spent many winters in Florida and she always loved to travel. She was known for being an excellent baker.
Her husband, Charles W. Miller, whom she married July 11, 1953 passed away January 8, 2005.
She is survived by two daughters, Diana M. (Jim) Ignazio of Austintown and Linda J. (Ray) Westhead of Youngstown; a son, Charlie Miller of Austintown; two half sisters, Sally (Ormond) Ware of Florida and Jackleyn (Murray) Bennett of Florida; a sister-in-law, Brenda Hilbert of Austintown; five grandchildren, Jamie (Rick) Walski; Kristin Ignazio; Jessica, Ray and Jared Westhead; and a great grandson, Dustyn Feltner.
Besides her parents and husband, Gloria is preceded in death by a brother, Jack Singleton.
Family and friends may call from 9 to 10:45 a.m. Saturday at the funeral home.
Gloria's family would like to give a special thanks to Briarfield Manor and Hospice of the Valley for their compassionate and excellent care.
Richard M. Safron, 77
SCOTTSDALE, ARIZ. - Richard M. Safron, 77, formerly of Youngstown, passed away Friday, Jan. 5, at Sherman Hospice of the Valley, surrounded by his family.
Richard was born Nov. 26, 1929 in Youngstown, a son of the late Michael J. Saffron and Helen Saffron-Douglas.
Mr. Saffron served his country by joining the U.S. Marines in September of 1949, rising through the ranks to the highly-respected position of Marine Drill-Sergeant, and was honorably discharged in January of 1952.
He subsequently graduated from Youngstown State University with a bachelor's degree in accounting. Richard was employed in Phoenix at Motorola as a computer programmer. He retired in 1995.
Richard was a humble, gentle man and devoted husband and father who loved Jesus Christ and used the Lord’s life as the example to live his own. No one ever heard Richard complain despite having to make incredible sacrifices to raise his daughter, Sherry Ann, and, at the same time care for his first wife, Margaret “Margie” Kanocz-Safron, whom he married in August of 1958.
In 1995, he married his wife, Ilona. As a couple they enjoyed the last decade of Richard’s life doing activities which he loved most; traveling, photography, remodeling and handy work, and putting together his family tree and computer photo albums.
Richard is survived by his wife, Ilona; his daughter, Sherry Ann McQueen; two grandchildren, Chalyce M. McQueen and Tara L. McQueen; his brother, Charles; and his sister, Joan Lutsky.
A public viewing will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Friday, Jan. 12, at Messinger Indian School Mortuary in Scottsdale. Services are open to the public and will be held at the same location at 11 a.m. on Saturday Jan. 13.
Flowers can be sent to Messinger Mortuary, 7601 E. Indian School Road, Scottsdale, AZ 85251. Donations may also be made to Hospice of the Valley, 1510 E. Flower St., Phoenix, AZ 85014.
Please visit www.kinnickfuneralhome.com to view this obituary and send condolences sent to the family.
Rev. Lawrence E. Shells
YOUNGSTOWN – Rev. Lawrence E. Shells, pastor emeritus of Christian Bible Baptist Church, founded under his leadership 27 years ago, went home to glory while at St. Elizabeth Medical Center on Tuesday, Jan. 9.
Rev. Shells was born Dec. 19, 1931 in Youngstown to Harvey and Mary Shells. He moved to Alliance, Ohio where he became a member of Tabernacle Baptist Church.
While at Tabernacle, he served as superintendent of the Sunday School at the age of 12.
As a young adult, he moved back to Youngstown with his family and in 1959 became a member of New Bethel Baptist Church, where he served as president of the Male Chorus, an ordained deacon and later as a minister by Rev. Lonnis A. Simon. Shortly after being called to the ministry, New Bethel Baptist Church sent him to Central Bible College in Cleveland, where he graduated with a degree in theology.
In 1967, he was called to pastor Shiloh Baptist Church in Campbell, where under his leadership a new edifice was built. He remained there until 1977, subsequently he founded Christian Bible Baptist Church where he served as pastor until his illness in 2003.
Rev. Shells served as president of the D & E Counseling Center’s Board of Directors from 1995 to 1997. He was a juvenile probation officer for 14 years. He served on numerous boards, including the Camp Fire Girls Council, Protestant Family Services, Parkview Counseling Center and the Mahoning County Caseworker Association. He was a member of the NAACP, Youngstown Area Urban League and served as Precinct Committeeman for the 5th ward.
He leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife, Artesia Hawkins Shells, whom he married Sept. 27, 1953; four daughters, Sharon E. Davis of Rochester, N.Y., Atty. Lori (George) Conne of Youngstown and Crystal D. Shells and Stacey L. (Kenneth) Cheirs, both of Boardman; a sister, Phyllis Phillips of Alliance; a brother, Atty. Vaughn B. (Jackie) Davis of Westchester; a stepfather, James B. Davis of Alliance; and three grandchildren.
His mother and father; and a brother, Duane Davis, all preceded him in death.
Friends may call from 5 to 7 p.m. today at the L. E. Black, Phillips & Holden Funeral Home and from noon to 1 p.m. Friday at the Christian Bible Baptist Church, where funeral services will follow at 1 p.m.
Richard A. Sieracki
DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA. – Richard A. Sieracki, born July 31, 1930 in Buffalo, N.Y., to Casimer and Julia Sieracki, passed away unexpectedly on Jan. 5 at his residence in Deerfield Beach.
Richard was raised and educated in Buffalo, attending East High School and the University of Buffalo.
He enjoyed a long and prosperous career, focusing in the china and glassware industry. He started his career in research and development, progressed into marketing, and subsequently held several manufacturing general manager positions. He capitalized on this diverse experience and subsequently forged several unique positions that established him as a leader in his industry.
His illustrious career led him to change residences frequently, from Buffalo to Cheektowaga, N.Y., Amherst, N.Y., Bardonia, N.Y., Sepulveda, Calif., Vineland, N.J., Mt. Prospect, Ill., and Poland, Ohio. His business travels took him worldwide, from South America to Europe to Asia.
A loving and devoted family man, he was predeceased by his wife, Loretta, in 2002. They were married Oct. 23. 1954 in Wilson, N.Y.
He is survived by his son, Eric; his brother, Roger (Kathleen); and his sister, Claudia.
Besides his wife, he was preceded in death by his sister, Patricia, and his brother, Ronald (Arleen).
An avid golfer, Richard was a man of high integrity and will be missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Friends may call from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. today at the Zajac Funeral Home, 319 24th St., corner of Welch Avenue, Niagara Falls, NY 14303, where services will begin at 9:30 a.m. Friday.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Friday at St. Stanislaus Kostka Church, 24th and Niagara Streets, with the Rev. Slawomir Siok officiating.
Burial will follow at Holy Trinity Cemetery in Lewiston, N.Y.
Memorial donations may be made to the American Diabetes Association at 1-800-DIABETES.
Yvette Emily Therman
YOUNGSTOWN – “Let your heart not be troubled...In my Father’s house are many mansions...God prepared a place for me on Jan. 6, 2007 for His fighting soldier, Yvette Emily Therman. I will continue my battle in eternity.”
Yvette was born Oct. 12, 1960 in Youngstown, the daughter of Emma L. McWilson and stepfather Raymond McWilson.
She graduated in 1979 from Woodrow Wilson High School. At an early age, Yvette was a member of the Mt. Gilead Baptist Church and served in ministry in the choir and as an usher. As a young adult, she moved to Topeka, Kan., where she married Titus Therman. She was employed at K.U. Medical Center.
She served faithfully at the Pilgrim Missionary Baptist Church in Topeka. She was committed in serving in the following ministries both in church and in her community: Junior Deaconess, missions, choir, usher, chairman of the food bank and clothing ministry, citywide chairman of the Juneteenth Celebration for Topeka, an advocate for Women in Action and had assisted the president of the NAACP of Topeka in many projects.
Yvette returned to Youngstown in April of 2006 because of health reasons.
She leaves to cherish her mother, Emma McWilson of Youngstown; a son, J.B. Beacham of Topeka; three brothers, Chester J. (June) Clardy of Youngstown, Gregory (Patricia) Clardy of Ray Town, Mo., and Raymond McWilson of Youngstown; and a sister, Yvonne Clardy of Ray Town, Mo.
She was a devoted grandmother to her grandson, Julian “Boss” Beacham of Topeka.
She was blessed to have a host of other family, nieces and nephews and friends who will miss her dearly.
Yvette was preceded in death by her sister, Yolanda Finley; her father, John Hellen; and grandparents, Dolly Gilmore, Chester High and Lela Brown.
Friends may call from 9 to 10 a.m. Saturday at the New Bethel Baptist Church, where there will be a funeral service at 10 a.m.
Arrangements are entrusted to the L.E. Black, Phillips & Holden Funeral Home.
Peter “Pepsi” Vuletich, 83
YOUNGSTOWN – There will be services at 10 a.m. Saturday at Holy Trinity Serbian Orthodox Church for Peter “Pepsi” Vuletich, 83 who passed away Wednesday morning at his home with his family at his side.
Mr. Vuletich was born July 24, 1923 in Youngstown, the son of Michael and Ethyl (Emry) Vuletich and was a life long area resident.
He retired as a Stationary Engineer with Republic Steel. Peter was an Army veteran of WWII, serving with the 114th engineer battalion from 1943 to 1946. He was best known for his life commitment to the Veterans of Foreign Wars, where he served as a Local, District and State Commander. Peter also served the VFW as a National Aide De Camp, speaking nationally at conventions and marching for veteran’s rights. He dedicated his time and efforts to area residents who were in need of transportation and advice concerning their veteran’s benefits.
Peter was a member of the church and was involved in numerous church activities.
He is survived by his wife, the former Helen Rice-Dripps, whom he married Jan. 7, 1975; eight children, Bruce (Sally) Dripps of Hubbard, Frank (JoJo) Dripps II of Simi Valley, Calif., Robin Forman of Youngstown, Jeffrey (Joyce) Dripps of Girard, Karen ( Kenneth) Chuey of Youngstown, Barbara (David) Leonard of Big Spring, Texas, James (Kathy) Dripps of Girard and Richard (Diana) Dripps of North Jackson; a son-in-law, Ken Bell of New Castle, more than 40 grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
Besides his parents, Peter was preceded in death by a daughter, Dwanda Bell; five brothers, Sam, Nick, Thomas, Charles and Steve; and two sisters, Sally and Sarah.
Family and friends may call from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday at the Lane Funeral Home, Austintown Chapel, where a prayer service will be at 7 p.m., and again from 9 to 10 a.m. Saturday with a prayer service at 9:30 a.m. at the funeral home and a 10 a.m. service at the church.
Friends and family may visit www.lanefuneralhomes.com to view the obituary and send condolences.
Robert J. Walsh, 69
AUSTINTOWN – A memorial Mass will be held Saturday at 10 a.m. at St. Joseph Church in Austintown for Robert J. Walsh, 69, who passed away Monday morning at his home after battling cancer for more than a year.
Robert was born Dec. 1, 1937 in Cleveland, the son of Zigmund and Elsie Koran Wolski.
He was a 1955 graduate of Cleveland Benedictine High School and later earned his bachelor’s degree in economics from John Carroll University. He had served in the U.S. Army from 1956 to 1959 as an instructor at Fort Monmouth Signal School in New Jersey.
He had been a member of a number of polka bands in the Cleveland area, most notably the Frank Makovicka Band. He began his more than 30-year career with General Motors at the GM Coit Road Plant in Cleveland and later retired in 1991 from the GM Lordstown Fisher Body plant as a general supervisor.
He was a member of St. Joseph Church, its men’s club, St. John’s Catholic Club, the Czech Catholic Union and the GM retirees golf league.
He is survived by his wife, the former Raymie Acorda, whom he married April 19, 1974; daughter, Raymie Liz of Miami; daughter, Ana Maria Alexander and her husband Paul of Hoboken, N.J.; son, Edward and his fiance Amanda Giesey of Cleveland; and brother, Rev. Fr. Adalbert Wolski of Hollydaysburgh, Pa., who will celebrate the mass.
He was preceded in death by his father, Zigmund Wolski; his mother, Elsie Wolski Schwanke; and his stepfather, Henry Schwanke.
There are no calling hours.
The family has requested that in lieu of flowers, tributes take the form of donations to the Sister Jacquelyn Herpy Memorial Scholarship Fund at St. Joseph School.
Arrangements are by the Higgins-Reardon Funeral Home, Austintown Chapel.
Please visit www.higgins-reardon.com to view this tribute and send condolences.
Mildred H. “Mimi” Ward, 81
SHARON, PA. – Mildred H. “Mimi” Ward, 81, formerly of Brookfield, passed away at 1:05 a.m. Jan. 10 after an extended illness.
Mildred was born June 14, 1925 in Pittsburgh to Frances (Karlik) and Felix Svarny.
She graduated from Brookfield area schools and went on to work as an assembler at Packard Electric for 30 years until retiring in 1990.
Mildred loved to do crossword puzzles and travel with her daughter to Hawaii, Florida and Las Vegas. She loved dogs all her live and was an avid Indians and Cavalier fan.
She is survived by her loving daughter, Jean E. Ward and husband Thomas E. Simon of Sharon; her brother, Rudolph Svarny and wife Evelyn of Sharon; and many loving nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by both parents; her sisters, Genevieve Haywood and Frances Kovack; and her brothers, William and Joseph Svarny.
Visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday at John Flynn Funeral Home & Crematory.
A funeral Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10 a.m. Saturday at St. Joseph’s Church in Sharon, with Fr. Shane Mathew officiating.
Entombment will follow at St. Rose Cemetery.
William E. Watson, 88
YOUNGSTOWN – Services will be at 12:30 p.m. Saturday at the Fox Funeral Home, Boardman for William E. Watson, 88, who died Saturday, Jan. 6 at Hospice House.
He was born July 16, 1918, in Youngstown, a son of George and Bertha Carabine Watson.
Mr. Watson worked as a burner at Columbia Iron and Metal in Girard for 35 years. Mr. Watson collected coins and stamps. He was a veteran of the Army during WWII.
His wife, the former, Helen V. Woodall, died May 31, 1996.
He leaves a daughter, Dolores Schulte, with whom he made his home; a brother, Carl Watson of Canfield; a sister, Gertrude Stiles of Youngstown; three grandchildren, Terri Schulte, Larry Schulte, Jr. and Loretta (William) Stanford; and nine great grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his son-in-law, Larry Schulte in 1980 and a brother, Albert Watson.
Friends may call from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday at the funeral home.
Family and friends may visit www.foxfuneralhome.org to view this obituary and send condolences.
Arlene (Eileen) Welsh, 80
YOUNGSTOWN – Services will be Saturday at 9:15 a.m. at the McCauley Funeral Home and a Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10 a.m. at the Sacred Heart Church for Arlene (Eileen) Welsh, 80, who passed Tuesday morning at Hospice House.
Miss Welsh was born July 25, 1926 in Youngstown, a daughter of Edward and Margaret Mary Mahoney Welsh and was a lifelong member of the community.
She was a homemaker, a member of the church and enjoyed doing crossword puzzles.
She is survived by four sisters, Dorothy Welsh, with whom she made her home, Catherine Cvengros of Campbell, Colletta Davis of Scranton, Pa., and Jean Cherol of Hubbard; several nieces and nephews; and several great-nieces and great-nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents; three sisters, Misses Patricia, Margaret Mary and Jane Louise; and a brother, John Edward Welsh.
Family and friends may call from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday at the funeral home.
The family would like to thank the doctors, nurses and staff of Hospice House for their caring and compassionate care.
McCauley Funeral Home – Our 105th Year
William Francis Wise, 94
POLAND — An open memorial service will be held at 7 p.m. Friday at the Good Hope Lutheran Church in North Lima, for William Francis Wise, 94, formerly of the Boardman area, who passed away peacefully Monday evening at his home in Shepherd of the Valley Assisted Living Community surrounded by family and friends.
William, affectionately known as “Buzz” or “Bill,” was born July 23, 1912 in East Palestine, the son of George and Evelyn (McCabe) Wise.
Bill was a U.S. Navy veteran serving during WWII and guarded President Roosevelt.
He was the owner and operator of Boardman Auto Parts on Market Street for 25 years along with his wife Pauline and son Bill Jr. He also served his community as a bus driver with the Boardman School System for 20 years.
He was a former member of the Paradise Lutheran Church and a current member of the Good Hope Lutheran Church.
He leaves behind his wife of 60 years, the former Pauline Opritza, whom he married June 30, 1946; their three children, Evelyn Wise of Boardman, William (Nancy) Wise of Simi Valley, Calif. and Dr. Richard (Toni) Wise of Poland; and four grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, George Wise; and sisters, Mary Powell and Loretta Tyrell.
Friends and family may call from 6 to 7 p.m. Friday at the church (located on Route 7 and 165) in North Lima.
Friends and family may make contributions in his name to their favorite charity and may visit www.lanefuneralhomes.com to view this obituary and send condolences.
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