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Tributes 2009-04-16

Wanda J. Berkinyi, 78

HUBBARD – There will be funeral services at 3 p.m. Monday at the Central Christian Church in Hubbard for Wanda J. Berkinyi, 78, who passed away Easter Sunday at the residence of Wanda and Dale Boerio.

Wanda was born Dec. 28, 1930, a daughter of James and Alice Weaver Wardle and was a lifelong Hubbard resident. She was a graduate of North High School.

She was a nanny for many years for a local family and also a seamstress for the former children’s store Zoodles.

She was a member of the Central Christian Church and the Chit-Chat Club for over 60 years.

Her husband, William E. Berkinyi, whom she married Feb. 13, 1954, passed away Jan. 11, 1977.

She will be sadly missed by all her family. She is survived by her children, Becky Berkinyi, Sally (Harry) Berkinyi-Hull and William Berkinyi and his fiance’, Lisa Bell, all of Hubbard and a grandson, Thomas Berkinyi.

She also leaves her sisters, Margaret Foore of Hubbard, Jane Garfoli of Slippery Rock, Pa. and Nancy Vohar of Liberty; a sister-in-law and special friend, Mary Ann Wardle; a great-niece, April Bogdan; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents; and siblings, Donald Wardle, Robert Wardle, David Wardle, Dorothea Morosko and Marilyn Zins and three infants.

There will be calling hours Sunday from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Stewart-Kyle Funeral Home and Monday from 2 to 3 p.m. at the Central Christian Church.

Burial will be at Jackson Cemetery.

Friends and family are invited to visit the funeral home’s website at www.stewart-kyle.com to share memories and condolences with the family.

Stewart-Kyle Funeral Home

Providing Funeral Service Since 1850

Helen Betts, 88

NORTH LIMA – Helen Betts, 88, formerly of Seneca St. in Youngstown, passed away early Tuesday evening, April 14, 2009, at Assumption Village Nursing Home.

Helen was born June 25, 1920 in Youngstown, a daughter of Elias and Mary Fick Betts, and was a lifelong area resident.

Helen worked for many years at Ideal Laundry on Youngstown’s northside. She was a lifelong member of Holy Trinity Ukrainian Catholic Church in Youngstown, and participated in and enjoyed many church functions, including the Easter banquets, the Golden Anniversary celebration, Sunday bingo parties, and the polka dances at Berkley Grove.

Helen was greatly loved and will be truly missed by all of her nieces and nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews, and great-great-nieces and great-great-nephews, who always looked forward to visiting her at her home. Helen welcomed and greeted her family with cookies and many other goodies.

For the past 12-and-a-half years, Helen called Assumption Village home and she enjoyed her time there very much. She was loved by the residents and staff alike for her affectionate nature, her interest in people, and the ability she had to remember everyone’s name!

At Assumption Village, Helen enjoyed daily Mass, playing bingo, doing crafts, and participating in many social and musical events. Helen was very happy to have received many visits from her family, priests, the ladies of the Holy Trinity Altar & Rosary Society, and the pets her family brought to see her.

Helen was preceded in death by her father, Elias; her mother, Mary Fick Betts Maceyko; and by four siblings, S. Howard Betts, Mary Terlesky, Ann Panko and John Betts.

Family and friends may call from 4 to 7 p.m. on Friday, April 17, at Kinnick Funeral Home, 477 N. Meridian Road in Youngstown, where a prayer service will be held at 4 p.m.

Funeral services will begin at 9:15 a.m. on Saturday at the funeral home, and will continue at 10 a.m. at Holy Trinity Ukrainian Catholic Church on West Rayen Avenue.

Interment will follow at Calvary Cemetery in Youngstown.

Helen’s family wishes to thank her doctors and the staff of Assumption Village for the excellent care Helen received, and for the love that was shown to her over the many years.

Visit kinnickfuneralhome.com to view this obituary and send condolences.

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Ezra Lee Darnell, 78

COLUMBUS – Mr. Ezra Lee Darnell, 78, formerly of Youngstown, died peacefully at the Villa Angela Care Center in Columbus on Monday, April 13, surrounded by his grandsons.

Lee, as he was affectionately called, was born May 4, 1930 in Wynn, Ark., a son of Harry and Betty Darnell.

He retired from Youngstown Sheet and Tube in the mid 70s and from Western Reserve Care System in the mid 90s. He served as vice president and shop steward of Local 627 (SEIU) for many years, and as board member, vice president then president of YHA Federal Credit Union for years. He was a former member of the Temple Emmanuel Seventh-day Adventist Church where over the years he officiated as head usher, recreation leader, deacon, assistant pathfinder leader and where he worked extensively with the youth. He enjoyed bowling, bingo, playing cards and traveling. He also was a loyal Cleveland Indians and Browns fan.

He leaves to cherish his memory and to mourn his loss, a son, Lester Darnell of Youngstown; a loving and supportive brother, John (Margie) Darnell of Elyria; three wonderful sisters, Priscilla (Chuck) Lumpkins of Akron and Monica Roberts and Lorraine Alexander, both of Los Angeles; a grandson and his loyal caretaker for the past three years, Robert “Snaper” (Shannon) Darnell Sr. of Columbus, as well as his other two grandchildren whom he raised and adored, Isaac Jennings of Columbus and Joi Jennings of Youngstown; two stepdaughters, whom he loved dearly, Elatrice (Clarence) Boles and Patricia Coleman, both of Youngstown; nine great-grandchildren; and a host of other family members and friends.

He was preceded in death by the love of his life, his wife, Armentha; his parents; two brothers, George and Clarence Darnell; his loving daughter, Judy L. Darnell (Jennings); and two grandsons.

Services will be at 11 a.m. on Friday at the Temple Emmanuel Seventh-day Adventist Church, where calling hours will be one hour prior.

Caring arrangements have been entrusted to the Howard-Rhoden Memorial Home in Youngstown.

Edubije Louie Diaz, 78

CAMPBELL – Funeral services will be at 9:30 a.m. Saturday at the Wasko Funeral Home and 10 a.m. at Sta. Rosa de Lima Church for Edubije Louie Diaz, 78, who passed away Tuesday at the Cleveland Clinic.

Louie was born Oct. 25, 1930 in Lares, Puerto Rico, the son of Anizacio and Francisca Gonzales Diaz.

He was a member of the church and before retiring, he was employed by the Youngstown Sheet and Tube (LTV).

Louie is survived by his loving, caring and compassionate wife of 52 years, Catalina (Catin) Gonzales Diaz, whose loving and devoted care allowed Louie to be here for many years for us all to enjoy. Our lives are richer for this and may God Bless Catin for this. He also leaves to cherish his memory, a son, Jim (Diana) Diaz of Tennessee; a daughter, Gladys (Johnny) Colon of Campbell; his grandchildren, Melissa, Megan, Matthew, Madelyn, Tony, Kimberly and Alysia; his brothers, Juan, Eugenio, Miria, Mike and Luis; his beloved dog, Molly; and many loving caring family members and friends living in the United States and Puerto Rico that remained lifelong friends and have been supporting the family until the end. His life was rich and fulfilled because of you.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his loving son, Luis (Vito) Diaz, and is on his way to be reunited with Vito and other loving family members and friends.

We feel fortunate and blessed to have been a part of Louie’s life and wish him well on his journey to be reunited with others who have always felt the same.

May God bless you all and may your memories always be good.

The Diaz family has entrusted their loved one to the care of the Wasko Funeral Home and will receive friends Friday from 5 to 8 p.m.

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Joe Dunchak, 89

LEWISVILLE, TEXAS – Graveside services were held on April 15, at St. John the Baptist Cemetery in Lowellville, for Joe Dunchak, 89, who passed away peacefully on March 30.

Joe was born Feb. 13, 1920 in Carbon, Pa., the son of John and Mary Zahuczeoska Dunchak and was a lifelong area resident of Campbell before moving to Texas.

He retired from the Carbon Concrete Block Company as a block maker in 1983 after working for 33 years.

His wife, the former Ann Dzuracky, whom he married May 16, 1945, passed away Feb. 15, 2002.

He leaves to cherish his memory three children and their spouses, David (Madeline) Dunchak of Youngstown, Judith Duniho of Lewisville, with whom he made his home, and John (Alicia) Dunchak of Souderton, Pa.; two grandchildren and their spouses, Lee (Tricia) Dunchak and Micah (Valerie) Duniho; five great-grandchildren, Jonah, Maia, Abigail, Sarah and Piper; one brother, Andrew Dunchak; and three sisters, Irene Finamore, Stephanie Centofante and Olga Miletta.

Besides his wife, he was preceded in death by his parents; one sister, Eleanor Dunchak; and two brothers, Nicholas and John Dunchak Jr.

The Dunchak family has entrusted their loved one to the care of the Wasko Funeral Home in Campbell.

Mary Jane Evans, 90

MESA, ARIZ. - Mary Jane Evans, 90, formerly of Austintown and Campbell, passed away Sunday morning, April 12, 2009, at Banner Baywood Medical Center in Mesa.

Mary was born July 1, 1918 in Ganister, Pa., a daughter of the late Joseph and Ann Homsey Kramer, and lived most of her life in Ohio.

She was head stock auditor for the A&P food chain, and was a dairy manager and cashier at Kroger Grocery Stores. Mary then worked as payroll manager at Republic Steel before retiring and moving to Florida in the mid 1990s, and subsequently to Arizona nine years ago.

She was a member of St. John Orthodox Church in Campbell, the Sisterhood of the church, and was a volunteer for Hospice of the Valley.

Mary leaves two daughters, Claudia Lewis of Boynton Beach, Fla. and Theodora (Donald) Drexel of Mesa; two grandsons, Terry (Danielle) Lewis of Montreal, Canada and Christopher Drexel of Mesa; three sisters, Nancy Sernulka of Cortland, Judy Pavis of Liberty Township and Lucy Uhlar of Youngstown; and several nieces and nephews.

Her husband, George M. Evans, whom she married March 1, 1941, died Jan. 21, 1984. Two brothers, Frank Kramer and Joseph Kramer Jr. and four sisters, Ann Bistarkey, Elizabeth Sylvester, Helen Hritz and Elsie Antonoff are also deceased.

Family and friends may call from 10 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. on Monday, April 20, at Kinnick Funeral Home, 477 N. Meridian Road in Youngstown.

Funeral services will take place at 1 p.m. Monday at St. John Orthodox Cemetery Chapel in Campbell.

Visit kinnickfuneralhome.com to view this obituary and send condolences on-line.

Albert J. Gennaro, 89

ORLANDO, FLA. – Albert J. Gennaro, 89, died March 19, 2009, in North Palm Beach, Fla.

He was born in Campbell on Dec. 4, 1919, a son of Joseph and Dolorata Marchionda Gennaro.

He served in the U.S. Army during World War II and was honorably discharged from the Army Quartermaster Corps in 1945.

He moved to Orlando in 1960 and before relocating to North Palm Beach in March of 2009, he resided in the Catherine Booth Towers in Orlando.

He was a member of St. Lucy Church in Campbell and the Good Shepherd Church in Orlando.

He was part owner of Nicky’s Lodge in Orlando with his brother, Nick Gennaro and sister, Helen Mascola. He was also a dispatcher for the Sheriff’s Department in Orlando.

Preceding him in death were his parents; brothers, Frank and Nick; sisters, Rose Gennaro, Helen Mascola and Marie Piccolo; and niece, Jane Mascola.

He leaves numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews in Florida, Ohio and California.

Military memorial services will be held in June at the South Florida National Cemetery in Lake Worth, Fla.

Arrangements were handled by the Howard Price Funeral Home in North Palm Beach, Fla. and the Fabrizio Funeral Home in Youngstown.

John D. Girardi, 76

HOUSTON – John D. Girardi, 76, passed away Wednesday, March 25, in Houston.

He was born April 7, 1932 in Youngstown to Antonio and Teresa Girardi.

John was preceded in death by his brother, Michael Girardi.

A man who loved his family, was proud of his sons, outstanding grandson and his princess granddaughter, is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Carole Girardi; sons, Mike Girardi and wife Kay and John and Steve Girardi; grandchildren, Michael and Sheri Kay Girardi; brother, Carmen Girardi; and sisters, Cathy Zack and husband Bob and Livia Marinelli.

John retired from the City of Houston in the year of 2000 with many years of service.

A celebration of John’s life was held Saturday, March 28, at the Chapel of SouthPark Funeral Home in Pearland, Texas.

Entombment was at Grace Mausoleum at South Park Cemetery.

Nancy Hahlen, 61

LAKE MILTON – Funeral services will be held at noon on Saturday at the Lane Funeral Home, Austintown Chapel for Nancy Hahlen, 61, who died Tuesday afternoon at her residence after a four and half year courageous battle with cancer.

Nancy was born Oct. 22, 1947 in Ravenna, the daughter of Joseph and Doris (Sickle) Holecko.

Nancy retired from Austintown Schools in 2005, where she had been principal at Lynn Kirk School for seven years. She graduated in 1965 from Jackson Milton High School, attended Kent State University and received her Masters in Administration from Dayton University.

She loved to travel and enjoyed her Corvette. Nancy’s greatest love was being with her family.

She will be sadly missed by her husband, David W. Hahlen, whom she married Aug. 14, 1971; her children, Benjamin D. (Jill) Hahlen from Chicago and Stephanie N. (Michael) Dailey of Austintown. She will also be missed by her mother, Doris Holecko; and her sister, Bonnie Prusky, both of Lake Milton and her brother, Joseph Holecko of North Jackson.

She was preceded in death by her father, Joseph Holecko.

Family and friends may call from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday at the funeral home.

The family requests that memorial contributions take the form of donations to Ireland Cancer Center at University Hospital in Cleveland.

Family and friends may visit www.lanefuneralhomes.com to view this obituary and send condolences.

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Hattie Jane Harris, 80

OMAHA, NEB. – Services will be on Saturday, April 18, 2009, at 10 a.m. at the New Bethel Baptist Church for Mrs. Hattie Jane Harris, 80, formerly of Campbell, who departed this life Saturday, April 11, 2009.

Mrs. Harris was born April 25, 1928 in Wrightsville, Ga., a daughter of Leroy and Effie Haynes, moving to Campbell as a child, where she attended school.

Eventually she moved to Youngstown, where she resided until November of 2007. She spent the remaining of her years in Omaha.

A member of the New Bethel Baptist Church, she was a strong-minded independent woman and a devoted mother, committed to raising her two sons, with a “no nonsense” approach. She cared and deeply loved her family. She will always be remembered for her signature smile and unmistakable laugh that compelled you to join in.

She leaves to cherish her memories, her two sons, Alan Harris of Omaha and William E. (Pamela) Harris of Lansing, Mich.; her brother, Eugene Haynes of Canton; three grandsons, Andreas Hall, Braxton Harris and Wynton Harris, all of Lansing; two great-grandchildren, Tavion Walker and Jayda Harris, both of Lansing; and many loving relatives and friends.

Besides her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Will Harris; two brothers, Willie Haynes and Clifford Haynes; and granddaughter, Tamara Hall.

Friends may call Saturday from 9 to 10 a.m. at the church.

Arrangements entrusted to the L.E. Black, Phillips & Holden Funeral Home.

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Lotus Joyce Harris

BAKERSFIELD, CALIF. – Lotus Joyce Harris was born in Orlando, Fla., on April 14, 1939, and she went home to Jesus in Bakersfield on April 7, 2009.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Margaret (Trotter) and Wilber Webber and her father, Leslie S. McCranie.

She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Nada and Ric Yorke; son and daughter-in-law, Bob and Sylvie Harris; former husband, Robert D. Harris; grandchildren, John Hartshorn and Steven, Bob and Michael Harris; great-grandson, Bobby Harris; brother and sister-in-law, Brent and Judy Webber; sister, Mary Lou; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Lotus spent the first five years of her marriage having her children and traveling around the country with her husband, who was an Air Force fighter pilot.

In 1965, they settled in Bakersfield, where he became a stockbroker and she began to follow her passion for music. She joined the Bakersfield Symphony Associates, where she was involved in many fund raising events and eventually began teaching piano lessons out of her home.

In 1975, she returned to her roots in Orlando and opened her own music school, Lotus Harris School of Music. While she enjoyed teaching piano lessons, she decided to return to Youngstown, where she could assist her ailing parents and finally finish her college degree. She earned her B.A. at Youngstown State University in Music History and was accepted to Duquesne University, where she earned her B.A. in Music Therapy and became a Registered Music Therapist/Board Certified. She was forever grateful to Sister Donna for her encouragement and mentoring!

After graduation, and following the death of her parents, Lotus returned to Bakersfield to be near her daughter and grandson. Through her music therapy business, she worked with the elderly, and children with disabilities, to provide a higher quality of life through the therapeutic power of music. She was always proud of her children’s and grandchildren’s accomplishments and was especially delighted when her son opened his own auto repair business in Daytona Beach, Fla.

She will be dearly missed by her family, friends and those whose lives she touched in a loving way.

Arrangements entrusted to the Basham Funeral Care in Bakersfield.

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John “Ivan” Kekish, 79

BOARDMAN – A memorial service will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, April 18, 2009, at the Higgins-Reardon Funeral Home, Boardman-Canfield Chapel, for John “Ivan” Kekish, 79, who passed away Tuesday, March 31, at the Hospice House surrounded by his family.

He was born in Youngstown on March 4, 1930 to the late Nicholi and Elle (Thorstep) Kekish.

John was a natural salesman: He was well liked and respected. He worked for Republic Steel, General Fireproofing, Stambaugh’s, and Clearfield Hardware. He was most proud of his affiliation with Atwell’s Police and Fire Equipment Company in Painesville, and worked with them for over 15 years.

He is survived by his son, David (Kathleen) Kekish of Chardon and two grandchildren, Meghan and Amy Kekish, both of Chardon.

Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, the former Nancy Jo O’Neill, who died Feb. 15, 2008; and two brothers, Nicholas and Michael Kekish.

The family requests that memorial donations be made to the Hospice House.

Visit www.higgins-reardon.com to view this obituary and to send condolences.

Robert Ray Keslar, 91

LEETONIA – Robert Ray Keslar, 91, died a peaceful death from a stroke with his family at his side at 8:15 p.m. on April 14 at Hospice of the Valley in Poland.

He was the son of Robert Bruce and Margaret (McIntosh) Keslar.

Robert was a contractor/carpenter for most of his life, ending his career as supervisor at the Columbiana County Garage.

He was a member of the Lisbon Assembly of God Church in Lisbon. He graduated from East Fairfield in 1936. He was a World War II veteran and past Commander of Post 5532 VFW in Washingtonville and served in their Color Guard for many years. He was also a member of the New Lisbon Masonic Lodge No. 65.

He will be sadly missed by his daughters, Carol Bailey and husband David of Alpharetta, Ga. and Linda Pahanish and husband Michael of Leetonia; his grandchildren, Lance and Shauna Bailey of Tempe, Ariz., Trevor Bailey of San Jose, Calif. and Diana (Pahanish) Coburn and husband Randy of Leetonia; and great-grandchildren, Michael Dean and Joshua Coburn of Leetonia, Ashley Coburn of New Philadelphia and Michael Allen Coburn of East Fairfield.

He was preceded in death by his brothers, Bruce and Howard Keslar and sister Martha (Keslar) Wassink.

He is survived by one brother, Earl (Sam) Keslar, 96, of Columbiana.

Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, April 18, 2009, at the Seederly-Mong & Beck Funeral Home in Columbiana, with the Rev. Fred Markusic officiating.

Burial will be at Columbiana Cemetery with military honors by the American Legion Post 290 of Columbiana and VFW Post 5532 of Washingtonville.

Calling hours will be from 7 to 9 p.m. Friday, April 17, 2009, at the Seederly-Mong & Beck Funeral Home in Columbiana.

A Masonic service will be held at the funeral home at 9 p.m. on Friday, April 17, 2009.

The family would like to thank Hospice House for their excellent care and compassion.

Friends may visit www.seederly-mongandbeck.com to view this obituary, sign the guest register, or send private condolences.

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Nancy Lesko, 67

GIRARD – Nancy Lesko, 67, passed away Tuesday, April 14, 2009, at Forum Health Northside Medical Center.

Nancy was born Dec. 4, 1934 to the late Maxwell and Dorothy Taylor Anderson in Girard.

She worked as a mold operator for Packard Electric, retiring in 1993. She was a member of St. Rose Church.

She is survived by her children, Geri (Jack) O’Connell of Girard, Barbara (Mark) Mehle of Lakewood, Diane (James) Caldreone of Middleburg Heights and Ronald (Christine) Lesko of Mineral Ridge; sister, Dorothy Glass of Girard; eight grandchildren; and one great-grandson.

She was preceded in death by her brother, Michael Vinich.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday at 11 a.m. at St. Rose Church, preceded by a pray service at the Blackstone Funeral Home at 10:30 a.m.

Visitation will be held on Friday from 5 to 8 p.m. at the funeral home.

Internment will follow at Girard City Cemetery.

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James T. Mack, 88

NORTH LIMA – Services will be held Saturday at 10 a.m. at the Davis Funeral Home for James T. Mack, 88, formerly of Brookfield Ave. in Boardman, who passed away Tuesday morning at Ivy Woods Manor.

Mr. Mack was born Dec. 22, 1920 in Duquesne, Pa., a son of Edward and Elizabeth Morgan Mack and came to this area as an infant.

He was a self employed automobile dealer since 1941, owning Union Auto Sales, Jim Mack Auto Sales and Girard Rambler, retiring in 2005.

During the 1940s thru 1960s, Mr. Mack was a promoter and brought numerous acts to the area including such notables as Woody Herman, Count Basie and Glenn Miller Orchestra.

Mr. Mack was a member of the Boardman United Methodist Church, Ohio Independent Dealers Association and an Army veteran of World War II.

His wife, the former Eileen O’Hara, whom he married in October of 1942, passed away Sept. 18, 2008. He was also preceded in death by his parents.

Surviving him is a son, James of Deerfield; a grandson, James of Columbus; and a granddaughter, Chelsea of Chicago.

Friends may call Friday from 5 to 8 p.m. and Saturday from 9 to 10 a.m. at the funeral home.

The family requests that material tributes take the form of contributions to the Church Memorial Fund, Boardman United Methodist Church, 6809 Market St., Boardman, OH 44512.

Viola “Yolanda” Marie Domenick McNulty, 84

Together Again

McDONALD – Viola “Yolanda” Marie Domenick McNulty, 84, passed away April 14, 2009.

Viola was born Feb. 21, 1925 in Coraopolis, Pa., the daughter of Pasquale and Christine (Santucci) Domenick.

Prior to her marriage, Viola moved to Youngstown at the invitation of one of her favorite cousins, Frankie Thomas. Viola had fond memories of waitressing in downtown Youngstown. She was the favorite waitress among the lunchtime business crowd. They like her sandwiches best and as she had told us, was tipped very well.

Lucy Maro introduced Viola to Edgar McNulty and the two married shortly after their courtship, started their family, and she began her full-time career of homemaker and mother. What a blessing it would be if everyone could experience the nurturing that Viola provided her family during her 84 years of life.

Viola loved her family, cooking, baking, decorating and the Steelers. She even had her own Terrible Towel.

She had many special names, such as Yolanda, Yola, Yolly, Aunt Lol and Yo.

Viola is survived by her children, Christine Cataffa (William Simmons) of Freedom, Pa., Kathleen McNulty of Canfield, Marie McNulty of McDonald and Frances (Anthony) Vitullo of McDonald; grandchildren, Heather (Donald) Bishop of Cortland, Kimberly (Benjamin) Campbell of Cheswick, Pa. and Courtney Vitullo of McDonald; her grand dogs, Ernie, Preston and Patsy; her siblings, Mary Casasanta, Albert Domenick and Helen Cox, all of Coraopolis, Pa.; and many nieces and nephews (Italian and Irish), Coraopolis friends, and longtime McDonald neighbors and friends, especially Ioma Halloran.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Edgar McNulty, whom she married June 4, 1949 and died Sept. 12, 1999; her brother, Daniel Domenick; her sister, Ann Hyjek; and her very special niece, Delphine Mahr.

The family extends a heartfelt thanks and appreciation to the staff of St. Elizabeth Health Center, especially 8 West Extension, the staff of Hospice House and Rural Metro Ambulance, especially Greg Smith.

The family suggest that in lieu of flowers and material contributions, family and friends consider a donation to Hospice House, 9803 Sharrot Road, Poland, OH 44514.

A funeral Mass will be held Saturday at the Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church in McDonald at 10 a.m.

Callings hours Friday from 5 to 8 p.m. at the McClurkin Funeral Home in Girard.

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Verna E. Mellinger, 93

LEETONIA – Verna E. Mellinger, 93, of 230 High St., died at 11:45 p.m. Tuesday at Salem Community Hospital.

Mrs. Mellinger was born June 2, 1915 in Youngstown, a daughter of Albert W. and Sue Clarke Koehler and had lived in this area all of her life.

She was a 1933 graduate of South High School and studied piano for eight years at the St. Louis Conservatory. She transferred to harp and took advanced studies at Baldwin-Wallace College in Berea. She was a harpist with the Youngstown Symphony, the Thompson Funeral Home, and the Fred B. King Funeral Home, all of Youngstown and on various radio stations in the area. She later worked for the former DanDee Pretzel Company in Leetonia and was a letter carrier for the U. S. Postal Service in Leetonia for 18 years, retiring in 1985.

She was a co-organizer and den mother of Cub Scout Pack 37 and was the first treasurer and charter member of the Columbiana County Genealogical Society. She was also a member of the National Association of Letter Carriers No. 385, the Ohio Genealogical Society, the Germantown Mennonite Society, the Beaver Township Historical Society, the Tri-State Historical and Genealogical Society and the Lancaster Mennonite & Historical Society.

Her husband, Edward W. Mellinger, whom she married Dec. 6, 1944, died on Dec. 21, 1985.

She is survived by a son, Ira (Marjorie) Mellinger of Twinsburg.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday at the Woods-Rettig Funeral Home in Leetonia, with Pastor Kari Lankford officiating. Burial will follow at Oakdale Cemetery.

Friends may call at the funeral home from 1 to 2 p.m. on Saturday.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that material tributes take the form of a donation to St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, PO Box 167, Leetonia, OH 44431.

Please visit www.familycareservices.com to sign the register and send condolences.

Thelma “Dutch” Pedaline, 89

LIBERTY TOWNSHIP – Thelma “Dutch” Pedaline, 89, passed away Wednesday, April 15, 2009, at her residence.

Thelma was born July 21, 1919 to the late Mr. and Mrs. William Wilson in Hubbard.

Thelma was welder for Truscon Steel during World War II. She was also a homemaker, a member of the Church Hill United Methodist Church, was an avid Cleveland Indians fan and enjoyed baking.

She is survived by her daughter, Eileen Smith of Liberty Township, with whom she made her home and Ronald (MaryJo) Pedaline of Vienna; her sister, Grace Wilson of Brookfield; sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Carl and Madelyn Pedaline of Youngstown; four grandchildren, Michele (Everett) Luther, Melissa (Ian) Hunter, Josh Pedaline and Nicole Pedaline; and four great-grandchildren, Ryan Luther, Regan, Gillian and Morgan Hunter.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Ralph Pedaline, whom she married May 29, 1945 and died June 19, 1981; a daughter, Roberta Pedaline; her son-in-law, Joseph Smith; sisters, Nellie Walker, Dorothy Buckley, Violet Johnston and twin sister, Minnie Johnston; brothers, Edward, Paul and Ralph Wilson.

Services will be held on Saturday at 4 p.m. at the Church Hill United Methodist Church, with visitation from 3 to 4 p.m. at the church.

Material contributions can be made to Hospice of the Valley.

Arrangements are being handled by the Blackstone Funeral Home in Girard.

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Mary Louise Petten, 74

MASURY – Mary Louise Petten, 74, died Tuesday evening, April 14, 2009, at St. Elizabeth Health Center.

She was born July 18, 1934 in Manschoice, Pa., a daughter of Herbert Eugene and Florence Rose Kavecki Tiday and came to the Youngstown area in 1940.

Mrs. Petten was a secretary at State Farm Insurance for 20 years before retiring in 1998. She was of the Pentecostal faith and enjoyed cooking, reading, gardening, picnics on the lake and bird watching.

She leaves a son, Joseph John Petten of Masury; two daughters, Pamela Ann Thiry of Florida and Karen Lynn Houy of Masury; two sisters, Dolores Jean Tiday of California and Patricia Ann Myers of Florida; four grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; a sister, JoAnne Tiday; and a brother, Eugene H. Kavecki.

Funeral services will be held Saturday at 10 a.m. at the Kelley-Robb Funeral Home in Hubbard.

Family and friends may call on Friday from 5 to 8 p.m. at the funeral home.

Please visit www.kelley-robb.com to view the obituary and to send condolences to the family.

Lois (Hart) Redig

BOARDMAN – Lois (Hart) Redig of Boardman. The beloved wife of the late Robert E., dearest mother of Robert (Judith), Mary Banaszak (John), John, Thomas and the late Michael, dear grandmother of Jay, Carrie, Amye and David, great-grandmother of four, sister of Gail, the late Jean, Bette and Janice, and loving aunt of many.

Friends may call at the Ferfolia Funeral Home, 356 West Aurora Road, (Route No. 82) in Sagamore Hills for visitation from 5 to 8 p.m.

A funeral will be Friday at 9:30 a.m. at the funeral home. A Mass of Christian Burial will be at St. Barnabas Catholic Church, 9451 Brandywine Road in Northfield at 10 a.m.

Interment will be at All Saints Cemetery.

John Severn, 86

YOUNGSTOWN – Funeral services will be Saturday at 11 a.m. at the Vaschak-Kirila Funeral Home for John Severn, 86, who entered into rest Monday afternoon.

John was born on June 8, 1922, the son of the late Steve and Stella (Orejko) Severincek.

He was a graduate of Campbell High School. He was a steel worker at LTV Steel for 36 years.

John joined the Army in 1942 in Ft. Hayes. He served in Rhineland Central Europe and received the American Theater Ribbon, EAME Theater Ribbon with two Bronze Stars, and the Presidential Citation.

John will be sadly missed by many, including his wife, Mildred (Vid) Severn; two sons, John (Marjorie) Severn and Steven (Carmelina) Severn; his daughter, Carolyn (Randy) Brian; seven grandchildren, John (Kathy) Severn, Joseph (Rochelle) Severn, Mathew Severn, Randy (Melissa) Brian, David (Meggan) Brian, Vincent Severn and Amanda Severn; four great-grandchildren, Andrew, Emmalene, Samantha and Joseph; and also survived by many nieces and nephews.

Calling hours will be Friday from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Vaschak-Kirila Funeral Home.

Visit www.vaschak-kirilafh.com to view this obituary or to send condolences to the family.

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Gloria E. Kravic Smolinsky, 66

GIRARD – Gloria E. Kravic Smolinsky, 66, passed away late Monday morning, April 13, 2009, at Forum Health Northside Medical Center, after undergoing surgery.

Gloria was born Dec. 10, 1942 in Youngstown, a daughter of the late John and Ann Luskowitz Kravic, and was a lifelong area resident.

She was a 1960 graduate of Chaney High School and was a homemaker.

Gloria leaves three sons, Marc Smolinsky of Girard, Steve Smolinsky of Poland, and David (Toni) Smolinsky of Bolivar; four grandchildren, Steve, Dalton, Troy and Craig; and two brothers, Robert Kravic of North Hollywood, Calif. and John Kravic of Louisville, Ky.

Gloria will be truly missed by all who knew and loved her.

Family and friends may call from 5 to 7 p.m. on Friday, April 17, at Kinnick Funeral Home, 477 N. Meridian Road, Youngstown, where a memorial service will take place at 7 p.m.

Visit kinnickfuneralhome.com to view this obituary and send condolences sent on-line.

Ina Dell Swinney, 96

NEW MIDDLETOWN – Ina Dell Swinney, 96, died Tuesday morning, April 14, 2009, at Greenbriar Healthcare Center.

She was born Feb. 17, 1913 in Fries, Va., a daughter of Terry and Larma Newman Swinney and came to Youngstown in 1926.

Miss Swinney was of the Methodist faith. She worked at Kline’s Department Store from 1931 until they closed and also worked at the Record Shop on Market Street in Youngstown until their closing.

Ina spent many hours with the USO during World War II and helped so many service men who were away from home. Her life was spent helping others and she was devoted to her crafts.

She leaves a sister, Velva Trail; a brother, Ralph Swinney; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; an infant brother; a daughter, Larma Ann; brother-in-law, Harold Trail; and a nephew, Ralph Trail.

A family memorial service will be held Saturday at 2 p.m. at the Kelley-Robb Funeral Home in Hubbard.

Please visit www.kelley-robb.com to view the obituary and to send condolences to the family.

Joseph Patrick Vitale Sr., 91

YOUNGSTOWN - Services will be at 9:30 a.m. Friday at The McCauley Funeral Home and a Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10 a.m. at St. Columba Cathedral for Mr. Joseph Patrick Vitale Sr., 91, who passed Wednesday morning at his residence.

Mr. Vitale was born March 17, 1918 in Youngstown, a son of James and Mary Pugliese Vitale and was a lifelong member of the community.

He was a welder for Truscon (Republic) Steel, retiring after 30 years of service with the company and then spent 10 years with Higbees Department Store, retiring in 1982. Mr. Vitale was a member of the Cathedral and Truscon Retirees Club.

Mr. Vitale was preceded in death by his wife, the former Rachel Ann DelBone, whom he married June 25, 1942, and passed away Sept. 28, 1980.

He is survived by a daughter, Marianne (M. Richard) Varley of Solomons Island, Md.; a son, Joseph P. (Diane) Vitale Jr. of Shiloh, N.C.; three grandchildren, Mark (Deborah) Varley of Little Rock, Ark., Michael (Chrissy) Varley of Canfield and Jillene (Todd) Conduff of Aurora; three great-grandchildren, Michael, Patrick and Jenna; and a family friend and caretaker, Carl H. Mayer Jr.

Besides his wife, he was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Nick, Peter and Johnny Vitale; sisters, Ann Shevansky and Miss Mary Jane Vitale.

Relatives and friends may call from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. Friday at the funeral home.

Material contributions may be sent to Hospice of the Valley, 5190 Market St., Youngstown, OH 44512.

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Martha D. Vukovic, 89

LIBERTY – Martha D. Vukovic, 89, formerly of Struthers, died Wednesday April 15, 2009, at Windsor House at Liberty Health Care.

Martha was born Dec. 17, 1919 in Youngstown, to the late Joseph and Mary Petrik Phillip (S) (Filip).

She was a beautician at Strouss Hirshberg Store and Assumption Nursing Home. She was a member of St. Nicholas Church, its Altar and Rosary Guild, the Slovak Catholic Sokols Branch No. 132, Order of St. Francis and Catholic Daughters of St. Anne Court No. 1875. She was an avid dog lover, gardener and card player. She loved playing 500 bid with her sister Helen. She pitched softball and was a member of the Women’s International Bowling Congress as a young woman. She also enjoyed playing the piano.

She is survived by two sons, Thomas (Anna) Vukovic of Marietta and Richard (Lydia) Vukovic of McDonald; two daughters, Chris Ann (Gary) Thompson and Ginny Fairhurst of Cedar Lake, Ind.; a brother, Thomas Filip of Boardman; eight grandchildren, Mark, Joseph, Richard, Adam, Matthew and Corey Vukovic and Scott and Molly Fairhurst; and four great-grandchildren, Abby, Mabel, Martha Cumming Vukovic and Erika Olivio Vukovic.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Peter Vukovic, whom she married Jan. 10, 1949, and he died Feb. 16, 1967; seven brothers, Joseph, Cyril, Vincent, Frank, Andrew, Stanley and Edward Phillip; and seven sisters, Sr. Annunciata, Sr. M. Vincent, Catherine Warfel, Agnes Behan, Olga, Magdaline and Julia Phillip.

Visiting hours will be Friday from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Kirila Funeral Home Inc., 258 Poland Ave. in Struthers.

Services will be Saturday at 10 a.m. at the funeral home and 10:30 a.m. at St. Nicholas Church in Struthers.

Please visit www.kirilafh.com to view this obituary and send online condolences

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Beverley M. Walby

ANN ARBOR, MICH. – Beverley M. Walby, passed away Tuesday, April 14, 2009.

She was born Dec. 4, 1935 to Paul J. and Alice Murdock.

She is survived by her husband, Philip; brother, Paul C. Murdock; four of her children, Mary, Paul, Phil (Catherine) and Celestin (Kathryn); and her seven grandchildren, Christina, Michael, Gabriel, Philip John, Kate, Jack and Jimmy.

She was preceded in death by her daughter, Irene.

Beverley lived an inspiring life as a mother of five children, wife of 50 years, teacher, nurse and volunteer, assisting Catholic services for many years in the care of the sick in Metro Detroit.

She graduated from the University of Detroit with honors, receiving a Ph.B. and a M.A.

A devoted member of St. Andrew’s Catholic Church in Saline, Mich. and St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in Ann Arbor, she will be most remembered for her personal commitment to follow Christ, her love of her family, and her empathy for the disadvantaged in her community.

Visitation will be today, April 16, from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m., with a Rosary service at 7 p.m. at the Nie Family Funeral Home, 2400 Carpenter Road in Ann Arbor.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be Friday, April 17, at 11 a.m. at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, 2250 E. Stadium Blvd. in Ann Arbor.

Visitation will be held at the church from 10 a.m. until the time of the funeral Mass.

Burial will be handled by the Thompson Funeral Home in Boardman at Forest Lawn Cemetery.

Please visit Beverley’s personal webpage at www.niefuneralhomes.com to leave a memory.

Maxwell C. Wilson Sr., 89

COLUMBIANA – Funeral services will be at 1 p.m. Saturday, April 18, 2009, at the Thompson Funeral Home, 4221 Market St. in Boardman for Maxwell C. Wilson Sr., 89, of St. Mary’s Alzheimer’s Center who died Tuesday afternoon at the center.

Maxwell was born Aug. 9, 1919 in Youngstown, a son of the late Charles A. and Mabel F. Butler Wilson.

He was an Army veteran of World War II, serving as a corporal in Germany. He worked in production for Truscon Steel for 30 years, retiring in 1972. After retirement, he moved to Florida in 1973 and returned to Columbiana in 1995.

Maxwell was a member of the First Christian Church in Columbiana and a former member of the John Knox Presbyterian Church in Youngstown and the Northcliffe Baptist Church in Springhill, Fla. He traveled all over the United States and he loved to fish, camp and play golf. Maxwell had many other hobbies which included crocheting afghans. He loved going to church, singing in the choir and witnessing for the Lord.

He leaves his wife, the former Charlotte R. Rodenbaugh, whom he married May 14, 1940; three sons, Maxwell C. (Janis) Wilson Jr. of Grove City, Pa., Gerald W. (Sandra Lee) Wilson of Cortland and Dennis R. (Colleen) Wilson of Youngstown; a brother, Raymond Wilson of Alabama; a half sister, Sandra Wilson of California; six grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren.

Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by four brothers, Russell Wilson, Audley Wilson, Kenneth Wilson and Harold Wilson; a sister, Thelma Golic; and a half sister, Permelia Brown.

Friends may call on Friday from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Thompson Funeral Home and one hour prior to the service on Saturday at the funeral home.

The family requests material tributes take the form of contributions to Hospice of the Valley, 5190 Market St., Boardman, OH 44512.

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