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Tributes 2009-05-10

Calvin Earl Brown

DALLAS, TEXAS – Calvin Earl Brown was born March 9, 1961, the second of four sons of James L. and Christine Brown.

Calvin went home to be with the Lord on April 26, 2009.

He was born and raised in Youngstown. He graduated from North High School and continued his education by graduating from Miami Valley Hospital School of Nursing in Dayton, with a bachelor’s degree in nursing.

He and his brother, Fredd, moved to Dallas in July of 1985, where they both worked at Baylor University Medical Center. In addition to nursing, Calvin became an entrepreneur by starting several businesses, an interior design studio called Bryce Studio, owned the Traditional Home Health Care Company and his latest, Patient Advocacy Company.

Calvin leaves and will be missed by his best friend and partner, Gary Foster in Dallas; both parents, James and Christine Brown of Youngstown; one sister, Gwendolyn Brown of Youngstown; three brothers and their wives, James Jr. and Marlene Brown of Campbell, Winfred “Fredd” and Denise Brown of Allen, Texas and Christopher and Nikki of Houston; and a host of devoted nieces, nephews and cousins.

In addition to his family, he will be missed by so many people whose lives he has touched in his 48 years, from former co-workers, business employees, and acquaintances, Dallas City and State officials, Dallas election campaign volunteers and so many friends. Calvin loved being around people. He was a dependable and loving care provider and a friend to everyone he met, especially his patients.

One of his many passions was entertaining his family and friends, which he loved, and the love of his three dogs, Milo, Bailey and Tassie.

Arrangements are being handled by the F.D. Mason Memorial Funeral Home in Youngstown.

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Rose M. Cain, 91

BILOXI, MISS. – Memorial services for Rose M. Cain, 91, formerly of Youngstown, will be held Wednesday, May 13, 2009, at 1 p.m. at St. Anthony Church, West Poland Ave., in Bessemer, Pa. She passed away May 2, 2009.

She was born Nov. 10, 1917, the daughter of the late Joseph and Mary Grebenz.

She is survived by six children, Carol Thomas, Eilene Broome, Lenora Hall, Nancy Trube, Esther Moore and Buddy Rowe; 16 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; brother Adoth Grebenz and sister Zella Luketic, both of Bessemer; numerous nieces and nephews; and great-nieces and great-nephews.

She was preceded in death by her son, Clarence Rowe and her sister, Mary Grebenz.

Memorial tribute given by her grandson, David Nevis and family of Woodstock, Ga. in honor of his grandmother’s memory.

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Steven A. Conko, 56

CANTON – Steven A. Conko, 56, of 1223 Market Ave. and formerly of Lake Milton, passed away Friday, May 8, 2009, at 4:45 p.m. at Canton Health Care Center.

On March 30, 1953, in Warren, James and Helen (Enlgert) Conko were blessed with the birth of their son, Steven.

Steven was employed as an assembler for MRDD at Rayen Avenue and Meshel Workshops.

In his spare time, Steve enjoyed watching WWF wrestling, especially Hulk Hogan, and was an avid Cleveland Browns fan. He also enjoyed listening to music.

Cherished memories of Steven will be carried on by his sisters, Deborah “Debbie” (Terry) Jacob of Lake Milton and Kim Stewart of Bristolville; a brother, Dennis (Colleen) Conko of Lake Milton; five nieces; one nephew; three great-nieces; and six great-nephews.

Preceding him in death were his parents and a brother, Robert Conko, who passed away Aug. 28, 1998.

The family will receive friends for one hour prior to the noon service on Monday, May 11, 2009, at St. Joseph Cemetery Chapel on Newton Falls Road (Paris Township) in Newton Falls.

The family would like to give a special thank you to the Canton Health Care Center and to IN House Hospice of Canton for the excellent care and support they provided for Steven and his family.

Arrangements by the Borowski Memorial Home in Newton Falls.

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Helen S. Danesi, 96

BOARDMAN – Services will be held at 10 a.m. on Wednesday at the Good Hope Lutheran Church for Helen S. Danesi, 96, formerly of Canfield, who passed away Thursday evening at Shepherd of the Valley Care Center.

Helen was born Aug. 18, 1912, in Youngstown, the daughter of Simon and Emma (Rossler) Schrom, and was a lifelong area resident.

She worked as a sales clerk with Strouss’ for 23 years, retiring in 1975. Helen was a member of the church since 1940, also a member of the Miram Chapter of the Eastern Star, a past member of the Caldron, and a charter member of the Saxon Club.

Her first husband, Frank E. Boros, whom she married May 23, 1930, passed away March 6, 1951. Helen’s second husband, Ralph J. Danesi, whom she married July 19, 1958, passed away April 17,1999.

She leaves three sons, Frank E. Boros Jr. and Terrence L. (Linda) Boros, both of Cape Coral, Fla., and William (Grace Ann) Boros of Austintown. Helen also leaves 10 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

Besides her husbands and parents, Helen was preceded in death by four brothers, Carl, Edward, William and John Schrom; and two sisters, Emma L. Lochard, and Eleanor Morelli.

The family will receive friends after the 10 a.m. service on Wednesday from 11 a.m. to noon.

In lieu of flowers the family request material tributes take the form of donations to the church in Helen’s name.

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

Luzmila “Cali” Guevara, 93

BOARDMAN – Prayers will begin Tuesday at 10:15 a.m. at the Fox Funeral Home, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. in the Immaculate Heart of Mary Church for Luzmila “Cali” Guevara, 93, who passed away Thursday at Shepherd of the Valley.

Mrs. Guevara was born Aug. 11, 1915, in Guayaquil, Ecuador, a daughter of Antonio and Leovigilda Calderon Franco, and moved to Warren in 1971.

She was the owner of a mattress warehouse in Ecuador and a former member of St. James Church and St. Paul the Apostle Church. She enjoyed watching soap operas, playing cards and spending time with her family.

Her husband, Isidoro Guevara, died Jan. 17, 1962.

She leaves a grandson, Louis “Lou” Cali Jr. of Boardman; and a great-grandson, George Cali.

Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by a daughter and son-in-law, Renee and Louis Cali M.D.; and a sister Lilly Kaplan.

Friends may call from 6 to 8 p.m. Monday at the Fox Funeral Home.

Family and friends may visit www.foxfuneralhome.org to view this obituary and send condolences.

Phyllis Ann Markusic, 77

CAMPBELL – Phyllis Ann Markusic, 77, died May 8, 2009.

Phyllis was born Feb. 18, 1932, in Youngstown, a daughter of Joseph and Paula Sujanski Graycar.

She was a 1950 graduate of Campbell Memorial High School, and attended Youngstown College. Phyllis worked as an investigator for the Welfare Department, and was a member of the St. John the Baptist Catholic Church.

She is survived by one son, John Markusic of Campbell; two sisters, Joan Wilson of San Francisco and Agnes Ingorvate of Campbell; one brother, Jim Graycar of Campbell; and one granddaughter, Loni Ann Markusic.

Besides her parents, she was preceded in death by a brother, Bobby Graycar; and two sisters, Pauline Graycar and Stacy Buccilli.

There will be no calling hours or services.

Arrangements are being handled by the Davidson-Becker Funeral Home in Struthers.

Please visit www.beckerobits.com to send condolences.

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Frank P. Mauro Sr., 88

NILES – Frank P. Mauro Sr., 88, died at 7:45 p.m. Thursday, May 7, 2009, at St. Joseph Health Center Eastland in Warren.

He was born May 26, 1920, in Niles, the son of Dominico and Marion Mango Mauro.

He was a 1938 graduate of Niles McKinley High School and was employed as a welder at Amweld for 20 years before retiring in 1986. He was also employed with his father and brother at Mauro’s Appliance Sales and Service in Niles for 50 years.

Frank was a member of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic Church in Niles and was a church usher, festival volunteer, and repairman for the church and its convent.

He was scout leader for Boy Scout Troop 36 in Niles, enjoyed golfing and bowling, and was a U.S. Army veteran of World War II.

Frank, who was a friend to everyone and anyone, will be deeply missed by his wife, Theresa Arduini Mauro, whom he married Oct. 11, 1941; three sons, Frank P. Mauro Jr. and wife Rose of Greensboro, N.C., Domonic Mauro of Niles, and Samuel Mauro and wife Jill of North Richland Hills, Texas; two grandchildren, Phillip Mauro and Daniel Mauro and wife Amanda; and a great-granddaughter, Julian Mauro.

He was preceded in death by a brother, Lou Mauro.

Friends may call from 4 to 7 p.m. Monday at the Joseph Rossi & Sons Funeral Home in Niles where The Mt. Carmel Bereavement Ministry will conduct prayers at 6:30 p.m.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 9:30 a.m. Tuesday at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic Church in Niles, with Fr. Larry Frient officiating, preceded by a 9 a.m. prayer service at the funeral home.

Burial will be in Pineview Cemetery, where Frank will be honored for his military service by The Trumbull County American Legion Honor Guard.

Memorial contributions can be made to Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church, 381 Robbins Ave., Niles, OH 44446.

Arrangements are being handled by The Joseph Rossi & Sons Funeral Home Inc., in Niles.

Condolences can be e-mailed at www.josephrossifuneralhome.com.

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William C. “Bill” Nelson, 80

CHAMPION TOWNSHIP – William C. “Bill” Nelson, 80, died Saturday morning, May 9, 2009, at his home, surrounded by his loving family.

He was born Jan. 7, 1929, in Stafford, Kan., the son of the late Floyd Nelson and the late Mary (Sanders) Campbell.

Bill was raised in Howland Township and was a 1946 graduate of Howland High School. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps at the end of World War II, from 1946 to 1948. He worked at Ohio Bell Telephone Company for over 25 years, retiring in 1976.

Bill was of the Lutheran faith. He enjoyed collecting sports cards and was an avid fisherman.

He is survived by his wife, Helen M. Tuori Nelson, whom he married May 14, 1950; three children, William (Ildiko) Nelson of Budapest, Hungary, Pamela (Ernie) Gerbetz of Howland and Carolle (Bruce) Bauer of Cincinnati; four grandchildren, Daniel, Kara, Destiny and Sterling; and one brother, Dean Nelson of Austintown.

Bill was preceded in death by one sister, Norma Voorhees.

Arrangements are being handled by the Roberts-Clark Funeral Chapel in Warren, where a private memorial service will be held. According to Bill’s wishes, cremation has taken place.

Memorial contributions may be made to Celtic Hospice, 3530 Belmont Ave., Youngstown, OH 44515.

Friends and family may visit www.robertsclarkchapel.com to send condolences and view this obituary.

Edward F. “Eddie” O’Brien, 86

YOUNGSTOWN – Funeral services will be officiated by the Rev. Edward P. Noga at 11 a.m. on Monday at the Fox Funeral Home in Boardman for Edward F. “Eddie” O’Brien, 86, who passed away Friday.

Eddie was born Jan. 21, 1923, in Youngstown, a son of Christopher and Margaret McNeeley O’Brien.

He was a 1943 graduate of South High School. Eddie worked at the Main Post Office Downtown for 35 years. He was a member of St. Dominic Church and the Knights of Columbus Council 274.

He loved spending time at Cedar Point and telling everyone what a great place it is, and driving his 1960 Chevy Impala convertible.

He leaves to cherish his memory, two nephews, Terry McCoy and William Whalen; and three nieces, Janet Rae Yacopi, Colleen Cataline and Maureen Carron.

Beside his parents, he was preceded in death by two sisters, Margaret Mary McCoy and Eileen Whalen; and a brother, Raymond O’Brien.

Friends may call from 10 to 11 a.m. on Monday at the Fox Funeral Home.

Material tributes can be made in Eddie’s memory to St. Patrick Church, 1420 Oak Hill Ave., Youngstown, OH 44507 or St. Dominic Church, 77 East Lucius Ave., Youngstown, OH 44507.

Family and friends may visit www.foxfuneralhome.org to view this obituary and send condolences.

Robert A. Paul, 95

NEW MIDDLETOWN – Robert A. Paul, 95, formerly of York, Pa., died Monday morning at St. Elizabeth Medical Center, Boardman Campus.

He was born April 3, 1914, in Pittsburgh, a son of George F. and Mary Niclout Paul.

He was raised in Koppel and graduated from Ellwood City High School. He attended Geneva College until transferring to Pennsylvania State University, where he graduated with a degree in chemical engineering. He has remained a devoted Penn State fan even to wearing their socks.

Mr. Paul was a former vice president of Operations for the J.E. Baker Company and then became vice president of Carbon Limestone while living in Poland. His career took him to Lancaster, Pa., and Portland, Ind.

He was a 60-year member of St. Matthew Lutheran Church of York, where he had served as secretary, treasurer and superintendent of the Sunday school. He was a member of the American Chemical Society, the American Society of Mine Engineering, Penn State Alumni, Kappa Delta Rho, West York Rotary, where he was a Paul Harris Fellow, an honorary member of Struthers Rotary, the Viking Club, the Hawks Club, the Dutch Club, the Dover Lunch Bunch and the SME Club.

His wife, the former Mildred Bentz, whom he married July 1, 1944, died Feb. 20, 2005.

He is survived by two daughters, Cheryl Drake and husband Carlos of York, Roberta “Robin” Cruciger and husband Bill of New Middletown, with whom he was living; four grandchildren, Christopher P. Cruciger, Scott D. Cruciger, Megan C. Drake and Robert W. Cruciger; and one great-granddaughter, Alayna J. Cruciger.

Three brothers, Charles F. Paul, Edward G. Paul and Maurice Paul are deceased.

Funeral services were held Friday, May 8, 2009, at St. Matthew Lutheran Church in York.

Material tributes may be made in the form of contributions to the Zion Lutheran Church, P.O. Box 434, New Middletown, OH 44442 or Hospice of the Valley, 5190 Market St., Boardman, OH 44512.

Local arrangements are being handled by the Becker Funeral Homes.

Please visit www.beckerobits.com to send condolences.

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Heriberto “Eddie” Reyes Sr., 64

“I’ll Miss You”

YOUNGSTOWN – Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday at the Wasko Funeral Home in Campbell, for Heriberto “Eddie” Reyes Sr., 64, who passed away Wednesday morning in The Cleveland Clinic.

Heriberto was born July 23, 1944 in Caguas, Puerto Rico, the son of Higinio and Ramona Crespo Reyes.

Eddie was a foreman at the Youngstown Sheet & Tube Campbell Works for 18 years, and was also employed by the Youngstown Board of Education as a bus driver of bus 109 for the past 19 years. He also helped his wife as a day care provider assistant at the day care in their home.

He was a member of The Spanish Evangelistic Church, where he was a deacon for 18 years and a Sunday School teacher.

Eddie leaves to cherish his memory his wife of 43 years, Ilia Rodriguez Reyes; his children, Heriberto Jr. (Marjorie) of Columbus, Jose Luis (Alba) of Campbell, Kenny (Danielle) of Youngstown and Margaret (Stuart) Howard of Youngstown; 13 grandchildren; two brothers; and two sisters.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Ricardo Reyes; two brothers; and two sisters.

The Reyes family has entrusted their loved one to the care of the Wasko Funeral Home and will receive friends Monday from 4 to 8 p.m and Tuesday from 10 to 11 a.m.

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Deloris Jean “Dolly” Rigby, 80

YOUNGSTOWN – There will be a funeral service Tuesday, May 12, 2009, at 1 p.m. at the Rossi & Santucci Funeral Home, 4700 Market St. in Boardman, for Deloris Jean “Dolly” Rigby, 80, of Youngstown, who peacefully passed away early Saturday morning May 9, 2009, with her loving family by her side.

Dolly will always be remembered and loved by her family and friends.

She was born Dec. 27, 1928, in Youngstown, the daughter of Harry and Blanche Rigby, and was a lifelong area resident.

Dolly retired from St. Elizabeth Hospital, working in the Laundry Department, and was a bartender for many years at the Southside Civics, along with being a homemaker. She was a graduate of Wilson High School.

The center of Dolly’s life was her children and grandchildren. She truly enjoyed gardening with her girl, Jean, in her meditation garden in the backyard.

She leaves behind to hold on to her memories a daughter, Debbie Nespeca Dickson, with whom she made her home; a son, Philip L. Nespeca Jr. of Florida; extended family Kathy Welsh of Florida, Jean (Tony) Giansante and Barb (Tom) Potts-Noufer, both of Youngstown; two grandchildren, Michelle Iaconis and Frank (Heather) Iaconis; extended grandchildren Jenn (Mike) Young, Lacey (Chris) Giansante, and Alexis Giansante; two great-grandchildren, Katie and Dominic Iaconis; and extended great-grandchildren, Cali and Piper Young.

Besides her parents, she was preceded in death by a son, Ernest Nespeca; a daughter, Brenda Iaconis; along with many brothers and sisters.

Friends may call on Monday, May 11, 2009 from 5 to 8 p.m. and on Tuesday, May 12, 2009, from noon to 12:50 p.m. all at the Rossi & Santucci Funeral Home, 4700 Market St. in Boardman.

Burial will take place at Lake Park Cemetery.

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Narcisa Rodriguez, 92

YOUNGSTOWN – Family and friends are invited to meet for a Mass of Christian Burial to be celebrated at 10 a.m. Tuesday, May 12, 2009, at Sta. Rosa de Lima Church, 394 Tenney Avenue in Campbell, for Narcisa Rodriguez, 92, who passed away Friday afternoon, May 8, with her family by her side.

Narcisa was born in Maunabo, Puerto Rico, on Oct. 29, 1916, to Francisco Rodriguez and Petronila Amaro.

She was a wonderful homemaker for her family and enjoyed all the children she had the pleasure of babysitting over the years.

She gave birth to 11 children, Carlito Ortiz, Palmira Ortiz, Luz Maria Amill, Risalina Ramos, Antonio Ortiz, Rafael Ortiz, Flora Ortiz, Miguel Ortiz, Jose Ortiz, Micaela “Carmen” Colon, and Margarita Gonzalez. She has four other children whom she adopted in her heart, Elizabeth Negron, Domary Baker, Brenda Roman, and Martin Ortiz. She leaves 12 grieving children; 26 grandchildren; 46 great-grandchildren; and 9 great-great-grandchildren that will miss her and carry her in their hearts forever. She also leaves five brothers in Puerto Rico and other family members who loved her and friends that cared so much for her that they shared in taking care of her and making her final days comfortable.

Besides her parents, she was preceded in death by three children, Carlito, Palmira, and Luz Maria; three brothers; and three sisters.

Friends may call on Monday, May 11, from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Rossi Brothers & Lellio Funeral Home, 4442 South Avenue in Boardman, where there will be a 7 p.m. Sta. Rosa de Lima Prayer Service.

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Bernard A. Sears, 75

GIRARD – Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday at the Lane Funeral Home, Mineral Ridge Chapel for Bernard A. Sears, 75, who died Friday morning at St. Elizabeth Health Center in Youngstown.

He was born Jan. 15, 1934, in Webster County, W.Va., a son of Dana and Myrtle (Perkins) Sears, and he came to this area as a teenager.

He worked as a line operator for Packard Electric for 35 years, before retiring in 1990.

He was an avid golfer. He was also a Cleveland Browns fan and a faithful and devoted supporter of the West Virginia Mountaineers.

After his retirement from Packard, he and his wife relocated to Myrtle Beach for 14 years, where he enjoyed riding around in his golf cart and greeting his friends and neighbors until returning to the area in 2005.

He is survived by his wife of 56 years, the former Norma Jean Sell, whom he married June 13, 1953. He also leaves behind five sons, Douglas (Joy) Sears of Niles, Bradley, Rodney, Steven and Timothy Sears, all of Girard; a brother, Joseph (Martha) Sears of Mineral Ridge; a sister, Jeanne (Bill) Renshaw of Farmington, W.Va.; 11 grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Beulah Knestrick.

Friends may call from 5 to 8 p.m. on Monday at the funeral home.

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

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Thomas K. Shaffer, 34

YOUNGSTOWN – Thomas K. Shaffer, 34, passed away Thursday, May 7, 2009 at his home.

He was born Jan. 9, 1975, in West Virginia to Sheila (Spear) Shaffer and the late Thomas Shaffer.

Tom was employed by Fyda Freightliner.

He will be missed by his young children, Kevin and Emma; and the mother of his children, Anette Shaffer.

He was preceded in death by his father and grandparents.

A memorial service will be held locally at Higgins-Reardon, Austintown Chapel on Tuesday, May 12, 2009 at 7 p.m.

Family will receive friends from 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home.

A memorial fund for the children has been established; please contact Higgins Reardon for details.

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

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Kathleen Mary and

William Carl Smith

POLAND – Kathleen Mary and William Carl Smith, both 56, died Tuesday evening at their residence.

Kathleen, affectionately known as “Kathy,” was born Jan. 21, 1953, in Youngstown, a daughter of James and Olga Dunchak Miletta, and was a lifelong resident of Poland.

Kathy was a 1971 graduate of Poland Seminary High School and worked in home health care. She enjoyed cooking and baking, loved animals, especially her four little dogs that she adored, but her greatest love was her children and grandchildren.

William, also known as “Bill,” was born Jan. 9, 1953, in New Castle, Pa., a son of Robert and Barbara Gurtner Smith, and was a lifelong resident of Poland.

Bill was a 1971 graduate of Poland Seminary High School and enlisted in the U.S. Navy for four years. He served both stateside and overseas. He was a member of Iron Workers Local 207 until 1987, when an industrial accident enforced retirement. Bill was an avid sportsman enjoying both hunting and fishing.

Kathy and Bill were married July 7, 1973.

They leave their daughter and son-in-law, Billie Jo and Chuck Wright of Lowellville; and three grandchildren, Chuckie and Kylie Wright and Jimmy Smith Jr.

Besides her parents, Kathy also leaves one sister, Marilyn (Michael) Sprague of Youngstown; and three brothers, James (Shelly) Miletta Jr. of Coitsville, Thomas (Renee) Miletta of Boardman and John (Deborah) Miletta of Struthers.

Bill leaves three brothers, Robert (Shirl) Smith of Poland, Roger Smith of Pennsylvania and Don (Theresa) Smith of Washingtonville.

Besides Bill’s parents, Kathy and Bill were preceded in death by their son, James Robert Smith; and Bill’s brother, Charles L. Smith.

Services will be held Monday at 1 p.m. at the Cunningham-Becker Funeral Home, Poland Chapel with Deacon Ray Hatala officiating.

Interment will follow at Lowellville Cemetery in Lowellville.

Friends will be received Monday from 11 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. at the funeral home.

Contributions may be made in c/o the Cunningham-Becker Funeral Home, Poland Chapel, 270 N. Main St. in Poland, in memory of William and Kathleen Smith.

Please visit www.beckerobits.com to send condolences.

Philip A. Snyder, 81

BOARDMAN - Philip A. Snyder, 81, retired director of University Relations at Youngstown State University and a long time local Rotarian and Scottish Rite Mason, passed away Friday, May 8, 2009, at St. Elizabeth Medical Center, Boardman Campus, after a brief illness.

He was born on Feb. 3, 1928, in Savannah, Ga., a son of the late George and Cleomarie (Arnold) Snyder and was a 1946 graduate of South High School.

Upon graduation, he enlisted in the Marine Corps where he attained the rank of corporal, receiving an honorable discharge in 1948.

He enrolled at then Youngstown College upon his discharge from the military, thus beginning a seven decade association with his alma mater.

A very involved student, he was a four-year letter winner as a member of the Penguin tennis team where he fashioned a 31-7 singles mark and a 20-13 doubles ledger while playing for coaches Leo Mason and Ralph Beard.

Writing, advertising and management have always been Snyder’s interests, so it was only natural that he gravitated to the school’s yearbook, The Neon, where he served on staff all four undergraduate years.

He rose from the ranks as staff member his freshman year, moving to advertising manager as a sophomore, became the circulation manager his junior year and during his senior year, was named its editor-in-chief.

Along with the late Chuck Perazich, who went on to become sports editor of The Vindicator, they teamed with the school’s athletic department in those early years to produce the scholastic football programs.

As co-editors, it was Snyder who sold the advertising and Perazich the writing, both working in perfect harmony to produce the game day programs which were made available to those in attendance at games back then.

He was a member of Alpha Phi Omega fraternity and the school’s honorary advertising/merchandising fraternity, Alpha Mu.

He earned his BS in business administration degree in 1952, majoring in advertising and public relations. That same year he was named as a “Who’s Who Among Students in American Universities & Colleges” recipient.

He later added additional studies at Westminster College to his resume, receiving his National Security Seminar Certificate from the Industrial College of the Armed Forces in 1971.

Upon graduation, he became the publicity director and editor of employee publications for G.F. Business Equipment, a post that he held until 1963 when he accepted the director of public relations position at nearby Westminster College.

He stayed at Westminster until 1966 when he was hired as YSU’s director of University Relations, a post that he held until his retirement in 1992. Upon his retirement and at the urging of then president Dr. Neil D. Humphrey, the University’s Board of Trustees conferred upon him the title of Director Emeritus.

Snyder came to YSU at a time when things were beginning to take off, and he was directly involved with the many positives that were beginning to take shape on the campus.

During his 26-year tenure, he wrote a history of YSU, organized records and data of hundreds of former and present faculty and staff and planned and coordinated the groundbreaking dedications of all buildings. Those weren’t his only duties, however.

He was credited as the driving force behind the school’s “YSU” block logo and was instrumental in securing their new 44555 zip code from the U.S. Postal Service (their old zip code was 44503), a request of which local post office officials were most happy since it would now distinguish and easily separate the high volume of mail that the university received on a daily basis.

When you talk about involvement and going beyond the scope of your everyday duties, surely Snyder’s name was at the top of the list.

In his “spare time,” he served as faculty advisor to Youngstown State’s Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity, a position that he held for over 20 years.

He joined the Rotary Club of Boardman in 1972 with the classification Education, State Universities and for the next 24 years had perfect attendance with the organization.

His duties within the organization were many, but over the years he served as president, vice-president, Governor’s representative and District Governor where he was the recipient of their highly coveted Paul Harris Fellow Award in 1983.

Among his many organization affiliations, he was a former member of the Youngstown Press Club, the American Alumni Council, American College Public Relations Association and the Council for Advancement and Support of Education.

To this day, he remains an active member of the Royal Order of Jesters, Cleveland Court No. 14.

His community service includes serving as past chapter chairman and current board member of the Mahoning Chapter of the American Red Cross, the publicity officer of the Lutheran Brotherhood, past officer and director of the William Holmes McGuffey Historical Society, has served on the Youngstown Area United Way Public Relations Committee, where he was co-chairman of the Education Division in 1988, is a former manager and coach in the Boardman Little League, is the former camping director of the Mahoning Valley Council of the Boy Scouts of America and the former Assistant Scoutmaster and Troop Committee Chairman of Troop 27 – Bethel Lutheran Church.

A 33rd Degree Scottish Rite Mason, he is a past chairman of the Masonic Learning Center for Children with Dyslexia while among his many honors over the years, he was named the 1981 Luke N. Zaccaro Memorial Award recipient for his meritorious service to the student body at YSU, was a “Who’s Who in the Midwest” honoree (1983), Rotary International’s “Key Man” honoree in 1983 and that same year, was Sigma Phi Epsilon’s Chapter Award recipient.

He received YSU’s Greek Sing “Dedication for Service” Award in 1991 and was the YSU Alumni Association’s “Involvement Award” honoree for his outstanding commitment to University and Community Affairs. Phil also received the lifetime Membership Award” by C.A.S.E., the Council for the Advancement and Support of Education organization.

He returned to YSU on a part-time basis after his retirement to serve as academic ceremonies coordinator for the University’s Honors Convocation and Commencement and in all, has served all six YSU Presidents as either an employee or volunteer.

He also served on the YSU Centennial Planning Committee.

He was inducted into the Curbstone Coaches Hall of Fame in 1998 and was YSU’s Heritage Award honoree in 2007. “When I received notice that I was one of this year’s honorees, I was speechless. This is an honor that I will never forget. There have been many fine individuals before me to receive this award, and to be included on that list now is truly a humbling feeling,” Phil stated during his acceptance speech.

He leaves his wife of 52 years, the former Dr. Dolores Bair, whom he married on Aug. 18, 1956; his daughters, Karen (Bernard Jr.) Galehan of Pittsburgh and Karla Snyder Beauchamp of Boardman; his son, Kurt of Cleveland; his three grandchildren, Philip W. Snyder, Kristine N. Beauchamp and Cheryl N. Snyder; and his brother, George (Nancy) Snyder III of Boardman.

The family would like to thank the numerous well-wishers who expressed their concern and offered prayers and thoughts of hope during his illness.

Services will be held Monday at 11 a.m. at the Bethel Lutheran Church, Boardman.

Friends may call today from 1 to 5 p.m. at the Davis Funeral Home and one hour prior (10 to 11a.m.) at the church. The Four Square Club and a Masonic service will be held following calling hours at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the church memorial fund, Bethel Lutheran Church, 425 Crestview Dr. in Boardman.

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Catherine L. Taylor, 93

NORTH LIMA - Services will be Monday at 11 a.m. at the Higgins-Reardon Funeral Home, Poland Chapel for Catherine L. Taylor, 93, who died Friday afternoon at Assumption Village.

Catherine was born Sept. 28, 1915, in Youngstown, the daughter of Thomas and Catherine Gallier Wells.

Catherine worked in retail sales for many years for several stores in the area and was a member of the Struthers United Methodist Church. She was an avid reader and bingo player and enjoyed playing cards.

She is survived by three daughters, Gayle (Bill) Elmer of Springdale, Ark., Carol (Thomas) Nardella of Boardman and Harriet MacAvoy of Austintown; a son, David (Marcie Rester) Shook of West Farmington; 17 grandchildren; 28 great-grandchildren; and 15 great-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Charles Taylor; a son, Robert Shook; four grandchildren; a sister, Lillian Popa; and four brothers; Wilfred, Frank, Albert and Harold Wells.

Catherine’s family would like to thank Assumption Village for all of their care and kindness shown to Catherine over the years, and the staff of Hospice of the Valley.

Friends may call today from 5 to 8 p.m. and Monday from 10 to 11 a.m. at the funeral home.

Contributions may be made to the Assumption Village in Catherine’s memory.

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

Marie T. Viglio, 55

BOARDMAN – Marie T. Viglio, 55, passed away Friday morning, May 8, 2009, at her home following a courageous battle with cancer.

Marie, who was affectionately known as “Mimi,” was born Jan. 22, 1954 in Youngstown, a daughter of Adam and Helen Krusel Streeky, and was a lifelong area resident.

Marie was a graduate of Holy Name Elementary School and a 1972 graduate of Ursuline High School. She earned her bachelor’s degree in education from Youngstown State University in 1978 and subsequently earned her master’s degree from Marygrove College in Detroit.

Mrs. Viglio was a teacher at St. Christine School in Youngstown for 31 years, teaching 7th and 8th grade science her entire tenure, until illness prohibited her from teaching in December of 2008.

She was instrumental in starting and organizing the annual school science fairs during her career at St. Christine’s. Marie served as a teacher representative for Ohio District 15 science directors for both state and local science fairs and was also a certified Praxis assessor for the State of Ohio.

Marie was an active member of St. Christine Parish, co-chairperson of the annual parish festival for 10 years, and a member of parish ALIVE. She was also a member of the Industrial Information Institute Incorporated, the marketing committee for Ursuline High School and auction, was president of the Lake to River Science Association, and sang with the Youngstown Symphony Chorus.

Throughout her lifetime, Marie was recognized for her many achievements. She received the Women in Science Award from the Ohio Academy of Science, the Governor’s Award for Science Teaching Excellence for 15 consecutive years, the 2007 Eileen Award presented by the Industrial Information Institute for Education, and the 2006 Youngstown State Outstanding Alumnus Award in Education. She was also one of the first recipients of the Golden Apple Award presented by the Diocese of Youngstown.

She is survived by her husband, Anthony P. “Tony” Viglio, whom she married July 16, 1983; a daughter, Marissa E. Viglio, at home; her father, Adam Streeky of Youngstown; two brothers, James A. (Marcia) Streeky of Austintown and Jerome A. (Christine) Streeky of Illinois; two sisters, Jennie M. (David) Ditzler of Austintown and Ellie M. (Greg) Cerimele of Canfield; her mother-in-law, Dolly Viglio Ponzi of Youngstown; four brothers-in-law, Michael (Donna) Viglio, Robert Viglio and Timothy Ponzi, all of Youngstown, and Kenneth Viglio of McClain, Va.; many nieces and nephews; several great-nieces and great-nephews; many, many dear friends; and her loyal dog, Angel.

Her mother, Helen Streeky, and her father-in-law, Louis Ponzi Sr., preceded her in death.

Family and friends may call on Monday, May 11, 2009, from 4 to 8 p.m. at Kinnick Funeral Home, 477 North Meridian Road in Youngstown.

Funeral services will begin at 9:15 a.m. Tuesday at the funeral home and continue at 10 a.m. at St. Christine Church, 3165 S. Schenley Ave. in Youngstown.

Interment will follow at Resurrection Cemetery in Austintown.

Marie had an undying devotion to her Catholic faith and was a strong supporter of Catholic education. Her family suggests that anyone wishing to honor Marie’s memory with monetary donations may do so by contributing to the newly-formed Marie T. Viglio Memorial Scholarship Fund at Ursuline High School, 750 Wick Ave., Youngstown, OH 44505.

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

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