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Tributes 2009-09-30
John P. Balassone
AUSTINTOWN – A memorial service will be held at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 1, at the Thompson Funeral Home, 4221 Market St. in Boardman for John P. Balassone of Meridian Arms Assisted Living, formerly of Evelyn Road in Austintown, who died Sept. 20, 2009 at St. Elizabeth Health Center.
Mr. Balassone was born in Sulmona, Italy, a son of the late Francisco and Carmella Pressutti Balassone and came to this area in 1928.
He attended Ohio State University and served in the Army during World War II, where he was interpreter for the Italian POW’s. He was a retired teamster.
His wife, the former Jeraldine Ferguson, whom he married Dec. 24, 1948, died April 17, 1995.
He leaves a son, James (JoAnn) Balassone of Boardman; two daughters, Jackie (Bill) Knittle of Dallas and Joan (Rodney) Cavaliere of Austintown; a sister, Mary Jane Callella of Las Vegas; and one granddaughter, Jessica Balassone and a dear friend, Bud Monroe and Bud’s grandson, Nathan Hudzik.
Besides his parents, John was preceded in death by a brother, Joseph Balassone; and a sister, Concetta Balassone.
Friends may call on Thursday for one hour prior to the service at the funeral home.
John has donated his body to Ohio University of Athens for medical research and education.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that material tributes take the form of contributions to the donor’s favorite charity.
Lois (Cook) Barton, 96
“Together Again”
WESTERVILLE – Lois (Cook) Barton, 96, died Aug. 21, 2009.
Lois and her twin sister, Louise were born Sept. 30, 1912 at home on a farm that was part of land bought by her great-great-grandfather, James McNabb, from the government in the late 1700s in Poland. There is a plaque on the historical home.
Lois graduated from The Ohio State University in 1937 and taught for 20 years in Springfield.
She married the love of her life, GM Barton in 1947 and in 1949 they were blessed with a daughter, Janet.
Lois lived in Poland until GM’s death in 1977 and attended the Poland United Methodist Church. She and Louise then moved to Waverly, where they were active in the Bristol Village Community and the Grace Methodist Church. They enjoyed many very happy years there until moving to Westerville in 2000.
Those who met her even the briefest moment were given a warm smile, kind touch and perhaps a mischievous wink. Those who were close to her are feeling a great loss. She was known for her love of all people with no reservations and quickly turned friends to family.
Lois was always appreciative and loved to spend time with friends and family playing games, crafting or just talking and laughing. Lois was a lady in the truest sense of the word.
Lois was preceded in death by her parents, John J. Cook and Etta (McNabb) Cook; siblings, Elizabeth, Martha, Florence, Lloyd, Boyd, Carl and Louise; and her husband, GM Barton.
She is survived by a daughter, Janet Graham of Iowa; three grandchildren, Jamie, Becky and Chrissy; 10 great-grandchildren; 11 nieces and nephews. Her niece, HelenRae Tarantino of Canfield was a second daughter to Lois. Her niece, Judy Maurer of Columbus was her care giver for the last several years of her life. She gave many hours of loving care to Lois and Louise. The wonderful family at the Villages at Westerville cared for her as if she were their own mother.
Graveside service will be held Oct. 3, at 11 a.m. at Boardman Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Heartland Hospice, 6500 Busch Blvd., Suite 210, Columbus, OH 43229.
Mary Ann (Kovach) Baumgardner, 66
VISALIA, CALIF. – There will be calling hours at the Vaschak-Kirila Funeral Home on Thursday from 5 to 8 p.m. for Mary Ann (Kovach) Baumgardner, 66, who passed away Thursday, Sept. 24, 2009, at Kaweah Delta District Hospital in Visalia.
She was born Feb. 19, 1943 in Youngstown to Mike and Mary Kovach.
Mary Ann grew up in McDonald, graduating from McDonald High School in 1961. In 1964, she moved to California and attended college. She later owned and operated a family Cleaning Business and Screen Printing Business for many years and later worked in the real estate business in Visalia. She was a Christian woman and a member of The Assembly of God Church of Visalia.
She is survived by her son, Danny (Judy) Baumgardner of Visalia, her son, David Baumgardner of Los Angeles; her daughter, Mary Beth (Mike) Tippitt of Visalia; two grandchildren, Kayla and Jayce; a sister, Beverly (Rolin) Baker of Canfield; two nieces, Amanda Baker of McDonald and Holly (Keith) Geho of Austintown; and also her best friends, Shirley Ray and Linda Tarrey of Visalia.
Mary Ann was preceded in death by her parents.
Funeral services will be held Friday at 10:30 a.m. at the Lord of Life Lutheran Church in Canfield with Pastor Lang Collins officiating.
Friends may also call from 10 to 10:30 a.m. Friday at the church.
Visit www.vaschak-kirilafh.com to view this obituary or to send condolences to the family.
Vaschak-Kirila Funeral Home, Dedicated To Caring Since 1907
Sandra L. Brainard, 49
YOUNGSTOWN – Sandra L. Brainard, 49, passed away early Tuesday morning at her home.
Sandra was born July 25, 1960 in Youngstown, a daughter of George and Donna Hanlon Janis.
Mrs. Brainard was owner/operator of Pro-Tech Appliance Repair Company with her husband, Rob.
Besides her parents, she is survived by her husband, Rob, whom she married in 1982; a son, Robert III at home; a brother, Joseph (Melissa) Janis of Austintown; two sisters, Vickey (George) Baker of Columbus and Karen (Jeff) Mathis of Chino Valley, Ariz.; and several aunts and uncles.
Sandra was preceded in death by a brother, George Joseph Janis Jr.
There are no services or calling hours.
Contributions maybe made to Easter Seals, 299 Edwards St., Youngstown, OH 44502.
Arrangements are being handled by the Shriver-Allison-Courtley-Weller-King Funeral Home.
Margie A. Byers, 77
BOARDMAN – There will be funeral services at 11 a.m. on Friday, Oct. 2, at the Rossi Brothers and Lellio Funeral Home in Boardman for Margie A. Byers, 77, who passed away early Monday morning, Sept. 28.
Margie was born Sept. 24, 1932 in Youngstown, the daughter of Gust and Lucille (Lyda) Kuvakas.
She was a chef at the Spaghetti House and later at the Isle of Capri Restaurant for Ron Quaranta, where she worked for 13 years. Margie was a member of the Westminster Presbyterian Church. She loved to cook and take care of her family.
Margie will always be remembered by her husband, Richard Byers, whom she married in 1958; her two sons, Frank (Liz) Byers of Belpre and Terrence Byers of New Castle, Pa.; four grandchildren, R. Brad Byers, Joey and Madeline Byers and Brytta Byers; two nephews, Doug (Debbie) Wolf and Wayne (Patti) Wolf; and five great-nephews, Sean, Ryan, Wayne Jr., Brandon and Justin.
Besides her parents, she was preceded in death by her brothers, Frank, John and George Kuvakas; and sisters, Kathryn Wszolek and Violet Wolf.
Friends may call from 4 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, Oct., 1 and from 10 to 11 a.m. on Friday, Oct. 2, prior to the services at the Rossi Brothers & Lellio Funeral Home, 4442 South Ave. in Boardman.
Contributions in memory of Margie Byers may be made to The Alzheimer’s Association, Attention: Tina Goynes, 3695 Boardman-Canfield Road, Suite 301-B, Canfield, OH 44406.
Visit www.rossifunerals.com to view this obituary and to send online condolences to the family.
Doris L. Evans, 90
HUBBARD – There will be services at 11 a.m. on Friday, Oct. 2, at the Stewart-Kyle Funeral Home for Doris L. Evans, 90, who passed away Tuesday, Sept. 29, at Hospice of the Valley Hospice House.
Doris, known as “Doie” was born Nov. 15, 1918 in Hubbard, a daughter of Paul and Mabel McBride Corll, and was a lifelong Hubbard resident.
She was a 1936 graduate of Hubbard High School and a graduate of Youngstown Business College. She worked at Home Savings and Loan, Tri-County Credit Union and GATX Credit Union.
She was the oldest member of the Corner House Christian Church and a member of Eastern Star Lodge No. 138, and worked at the Election Board.
Her husband, Evan Evans, whom she married Dec. 9, 1939, died May 31, 1985.
She will be sadly missed by all that had the pleasure of spending time with her.
She leaves her son, John D. (Shari) Evans of Hubbard; five grandchildren, Tanna D. Evans, Evan A. Evans, Jorge Hopkins, Jason Hopkins and Jennifer Hopkins. She also leaves her sister, Nina (Robert) Notman of Hubbard; two nephews, Thomas (Liz) Notman and Donald (Stephine) Notman, both of Hubbard; a niece, Jill (Dave) Farris of Bernerdsville, N.J.; three great-nephews, Brian, Mark and Stevie; and three great-nieces, Jenny, Julie and Sarah. She also leaves a large extended family.
She enjoyed gardening, playing cards and cooking. She also enjoyed horse racing, going to fairs, Lake Erie and living life to its fullest.
Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents.
There will be calling hours Thursday from 2 to 4 p.m. and from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Stewart-Kyle Funeral Home.
Burial will be at Hubbard Union Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Doris and Evan Evans Memorial Scholarship Fund, c/o Cortland Bank, 890 West Liberty St., Hubbard, OH 44425. This scholarship will be used towards the education of students in the State Tested Nurses Aide Program.
Family and friends 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
Edward E. Franko, 82
YOUNGSTOWN – A Mass of Resurrection will be celebrated Friday at 9:30 a.m. at St. Matthias Church for Edward E. Franko, 82, who died at home on Sunday, Sept. 27.
Edward was born in Youngstown April 20, 1927, a son of John S. and Mary Olenick Franko and was a life-long resident of the city.
He graduated from Wilson High School in 1946 and worked as a zoning inspector for the City of Youngstown in the Engineering Department, retiring after 34 years of service. He was also the owner of the Green Spot Tavern.
Edward was a member of St. Matthias Church and of the Holy Name Society. In addition, he was a member of PEERS, Sokols and the AARP. He loved watching football and was a fan of both Youngstown State University and the Steelers.
He is survived by two brothers, Dr. John Franko of Pittsburgh and Richard (Ann) Franko of Youngstown; nine nieces and nephews, Judy (Brad) Bloomberg, Richard (Nancy) Franko, Marianne (Jeff) Semivan, Janet (Matt) Caiazza, Kathy (Len) Brush and John, William, Steve and Melissa Franko; two great-nieces, Grace Caiazza and Sarah Brush; and three great-nephews, Peter Caiazza and Andrew and Daniel Bloomberg.
Friends may call from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday at the Kubina-Yuhasz Funeral Home, 5925 Market St. in Boardman, where a prayer service will be held at 4:45 p.m. and again on Friday from 9 to 9:30 a.m. at St. Matthias Church, prior to the mass.
Visit kubinayuhasz@sbcglobal.net to send condolences.
Helena Gertrude (Harvey) Haynes, 87
HOUSTON – Born on Nov. 10, 1921 to Myrtle and Charles Harvey in Youngstown, Helena Gertrude (Harvey) Haynes succumbed at the age of 87 on Sept. 25, 2009 at the Hospice of Houston, Texas.
Helena Haynes graduated from East High School. Upon graduation, she married her husband, the late Judge Lloyd R Haynes.
She was a devoted wife, mother, homemaker and the founder of the McGuffey Center Day, where she was a mentor to teenagers in the “The Haynes Twighlight Club.” She was once named “Homemaker of the Week” by the Youngstown Vindicator.
Helena was devoted to volunteerism and spent much of her time volunteering at the YWCA. She was an active participant in the Lawyers’ Wives Club and actively worked on her husband’s political campaigns.
Helena and her husband, the late Judge Lloyd R Haynes celebrated 66 years of marriage during which time they had four children, Betty Haynes Rogers of Houston, Loretta Haynes Hobbs (deceased), Atty. Lloyd R Haynes Jr. (deceased) and Lisa Michelle Haynes (deceased).
Helena had six grandchildren, Dr. Lori Hobbs of Los Angeles; Dr Lisa Hobbs Richardson of Los Angeles, Leslie Hobbs Fisher and husband Dr Keith Fisher of Alexandria, Va.; Atty. Lynne Hobbs Smith of Los Angeles, Terri Rogers of Houston and Atty. Clarence D. Rogers III of Houston. Helena also left behind five great-grandchildren, Loretta Richardson, Lauren Richardson, Brandon Fisher, Cameron Fisher and Sanders Smith Jr.; as well as a host of other friends and relatives.
Her family will best remember her loving spirit and signature phrase, “Show Love” which was her philosophy in life.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, Oct. 3, 2009, at 1:30 p.m. at the South Park Funeral Home, 1310 N. Main St., Pearland, TX 77581.
Jane Kimmel, 85
BOARDMAN – Jane Kimmel, 85, formerly of Poland, died Sept. 29, 2009 at Beeghly Oaks.
Mrs. Kimmel was born June 19, 1924 in Leechburg, Pa., a daughter of Charles and Beatrice Cunningham Sinclair. She moved to Youngstown in 1939 and to Poland in 1949.
A 1941 graduate of The Rayen School, Mrs. Kimmel worked as a customer service representative for Prudential Insurance Company, retiring in 1987. After retirement, she worked at Wittenauer Gift Shoppe & Pharmacy in Poland.
She was a member of the Poland United Methodist Church, where she belonged to its’ Mary Martha Circle, Steven Ministries, and she served on many committees throughout her 50-year membership. Her family and grandchildren were her greatest joy and she enjoyed following all of their extracurricular activities.
Her husband, Robert S. Kimmel, whom she married July 20, 1946, died May 5, 2001.
She leaves her daughter, Susan (Glen) Welton of Poland; son, Robert “Sam” (Bonnie) Kimmel of Poland; two sisters, Ann Wilson of Darlington, Pa. and her twin, Jean Smith of Atlanta; four grandchildren, Kelly (Paul) Loftus of Lowellville, Jenni (Justin) Markey of Stow, Heidi (Kevin) McCreary of Tallmadge and Keith (Katie) Welton of Poland; and four great-grandchildren, Bobby, Garrett, Evan and he or she, who is expected in April.
Besides her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, John Sinclair.
Services will be held Friday at 11 a.m. at the Cunningham-Becker Funeral Home in Poland with Pastor Dan Yargo officiating. Interment will follow at Greenhaven Memorial Gardens in Canfield.
Family and friends will be received Thursday from 5 to 8 p.m. at the funeral home.
The family requests that memorial contributions be made in Mrs. Kimmel’s name to the National MS Society, P.O. Box 4527, New York, NY 10163.
Please visit www.beckerobits.com to send condolences.
Rose Kobal, 90
GIRARD – Rose Kobal, 90, died Monday, Sept. 28, 2009, at Forum Health Northside Medical Center in Youngstown.
She was born April 28, 1919 in Girard, the daughter of the late Sam and Madeline (Messuri) Zirafi.
She was a member of St. Rose Church in Girard, the Mt. Carmel Society, the Knights of Columbus Ladies, and the Oblates Sisters Auxiliary.
She married Rudolf J. Kobal on Jan. 14, 1943, and he passed away Nov. 5, 2007.
She is survived by two daughters, Junellen Louis of Florida and Carol Kobal of Girard; two brothers, Sam and Anthony Zirafi, both of Girard; three grandchildren, Leslie Louis, Jason Louis and Claudessa Tusanic; and one great-granddaughter, Kenleigh.
Besides her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by a brother, John Zirafi; and a sister, Virginia Perry.
Calling hours will be Thursday from 5 to 8 p.m. at the McClurkin Funeral Home in Girard.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m. on Friday at St. Rose Church with prayers at the funeral home at 9:30 a.m.
Entombment will be at Calvary Cemetery in Youngstown.
Elaine R. Krakora, 82
AUSTINTOWN - A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at 10 a.m. on Friday, Oct. 2, 2009, at St. Joseph Catholic Church with Fr. Gregory Fedor officiating, preceded by closing prayers to be recited at 9:30 a.m. at the Lane Funeral Home, Austintown Chapel for Elaine R. Krakora, 82, who passed away at 12:25 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 28, 2009, at Hospice House in Poland.
Elaine was born June 27, 1927 in Euclid, the daughter of the late Vincent and Ann (Skufka) Perusek and came to the area from Chesterland in 1966.
After graduating from high school, Elaine worked as a bookkeeper/accountant for Euclid Road Machinery and Thompson Products Company and also worked at General Electric. Elaine retired in 2004 from En-Ser Reprographics, where she was co-owner with her husband.
Elaine was a charter member of the church and was a member of the church choir for 30 years. She bowled on the Austintown Scholarship Bowling League and volunteered for many years with LPGA Golf Classic. She enjoyed sewing, loved to cook, and most of all she enjoyed the time she spent with her family.
Elaine was married on July 31, 1948 to Charles F. Krakora, and they were married for 48 years until his passing on Dec. 23, 1996.
Elaine is survived by four children, Eileen Lozier of Austintown, Michael (Anka) Krakora of Liberty Township, David (Cheryl) Krakora of Louisville and Kathleen (Wayne) Voland of North Jackson; a son-in-law, Michael Jordon of Austintown; 12 grandchildren, Brandon, Jason, Nicholas, Julie, Leann, Kelsie, Zachary, Cheyenne, Robert, Dakota, Matthew and Tiffany; and a great-grandson, Cameron.
Besides her parents, Elaine was preceded in death by a daughter, Susan Jordon, who passed away on Nov. 27, 2003; a son-in-law, Raymond Lozier; and a brother, Robert Perusek.
The family will receive friends on Thursday, Oct. 1, 2009, from 6 to 9 p.m. at the funeral home.
The family suggests that memorial contributions take the form of donations to Hospice House, 9803 Sharrott Road, Poland, OH 44514.
Family and friends may visit www.lanefuneralhomes.com to view this obituary and send condolences.
Joseph N. “Pete” Kusmirek, 92
GIRARD – Joseph N. “Pete” Kusmirek, 92, died Monday, Sept. 28, 2009, at his residence.
He was born Sept. 7, 1917 in Youngstown, a son of Nicholas and Agnes Symanek Kusmirek, and was a lifelong area resident.
Mr. Kusmirek was a craneman for U.S. Steel Co. for 43 years before retiring in 1979. Pete was a member of St. Casimir Church in Youngstown, a 1935 graduate of The Rayen School and was an amateur radio operator with the call sign W8YPZ.
He leaves his wife, the former, Marge DeMatteo, whom he married Nov. 16, 1940; two daughters, Patricia (Jack) Ralston of Vienna and Michele (John) DePinto of Girard; four grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers, Chester, Stanley and Theodore Kusmirek; a sister, Helen Tait; and a great-great-granddaughter.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday at St. Patrick Church in Hubbard.
Family and friends may call at the church on Friday, one hour prior to the services from 10 to 11 a.m.
Arrangements were handled by the Kelley-Robb Funeral Home in Hubbard.
Please visit www.kelley-robb.com to view this obituary and to send condolences to the family.
Brian C. Logan Jr., 33
BOARDMAN – Brian C. Logan Jr., 33, died Saturday evening, Sept. 26, 2009.
He was born Oct. 6, 1975 in Youngstown, a son of Brian C. and Betsy Pieton Logan Sr. and was a lifelong area resident.
Mr. Logan was an engineer for ms consultants inc. for nine years. Brian was of the Presbyterian faith, a 1993 graduate of Girard High School and a 1997 graduate of Youngstown State University. He was a member of the American Society of Civil Engineers and enjoyed golf and radio control airplanes.
He leaves his parents of Hubbard; his wife, the former, Heather L. Ewing, whom he married Aug. 28, 1999; a son, Matthew Eric Logan, at home; a sister, Kelly A. (John) Fusco of Liberty; grandparents, Doris Logan of Niles and Charlotte Pieton of Hubbard; a nephew, Thad Fusco of Liberty; his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Bill and Sandy Ewing of Girard; and a sister-in-law, Lisa (Steve) Ewing-Wolfe of Medina.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Eugene Logan and Leonard Pieton and a special aunt, Sharon Talbert.
Funerals services will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday at the Kelley-Robb Funeral Home in Hubbard.
Family and friends may call at the funeral home today from 5 to 8 p.m.
Contributions may be made to the Matthew Logan Trust Fund at any 717 Credit Union.
Please visit www.kelley-robb.com to view this obituary and to send condolences to the family.
Dominic L. Martin, 78
BOARDMAN – Prayers will begin at 9:30 a.m. Saturday at the Fox Funeral Home in Boardman followed by a Mass of Christian Burial celebrated by the Rev. Philip Rogers at 10 a.m. at St. Charles Church in Boardman for Dominic L. Martin, 78, who passed away Sunday evening.
Dominic was born June 15, 1931 in Canfield, a son of Frank and Maggie Cirillo Martin.
Dominic was a 1948 honors graduate at Canfield High School and received a bachelor’s degree in education from Youngstown College, where he was president of his freshman and junior class, and was vice president of the Student Council. He also was a moderator for the radio station at the college. Dominic was the first male teacher hired in the Boardman School District, teaching at Market Street Elementary. He was a member of the church and was a avid sports fan. Dominic served as a lieutenant in the Army during the Korean War.
Dominic leaves to cherish his memory two sisters, Angela (Dr. Robert) Gilliland and Rose Savich, both of Boardman; brother, Frank (Edith) Martin of Boardman; a stepbrother, Anthony (Audrey) Martin of Canfield; and several nieces and nephews.
Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by a stepbrother, Joseph Martin; and two stepsisters, Theresa Booth and Nellie Danzo.
Friends may call 5 to 8 p.m. on Friday at the Fox Funeral Home in Boardman.
The Youngstown Cursillo will hold a Bible Vigial at 8 p.m.
Family and friends may visit www.foxfuneralhome.org to view this obituary and send condolences.
Darius R. McPherson
YOUNGSTOWN – A funeral service celebrating the life of Mr. Darius R. McPherson will be held Thursday at noon at the Tabernacle Baptist Church with Minister Carolyn O’Neil officiating.
Mr. McPherson was born on April 7, 1960 in Detroit, a son of Robert Kelly and Lucy McPherson, moving to the area many years ago.
He was a 1979 graduate of South High. He was a member of the Tabernacle Baptist Church and loved fishing and cars.
On Sept. 25, our heavenly Father cast his eternal light on Forum Health Northside Medical Center and beckoned him home.
He leaves to cherish his memory his parents; five sons, Damien Patterson of Akron, Darius Holcomb, Tory Holcomb, Sean McPherson and Demare McPherson, all of Youngstown; three daughters, Chalonda Holcomb, Precious Holcomb and Cherisse McPherson, all of Youngstown; two aunts, Florence Watson of Youngstown and Barbara J. Nichols of Cincinnati; a special friend, Karen Dill; eight grandchildren; and a host of other relatives and friends.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Robert and Dorothy Ross.
The family will receive friends one hour prior to services at the church.
Ministry of comfort will be provided by the J.E. Washington Funeral Services.
Joseph M. Mraz, 82
CAMPBELL – Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Thursday at the Wasko Funeral Home and a Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. at St. Elizabeth Church for Joseph M. Mraz, 82, who passed away Sunday evening in his long time Campbell home.
Joe was born March 12, 1927 in Campbell, the son of Michael and Mary Sudzina Mraz.
After graduating from Campbell Memorial High School, Joe went on to serve his country in the U.S. Army as a military policeman in Germany. Following the Army, he attended both Youngstown State University and Wichita University.
He worked at both Sharon Steel and Republic Steel Corporations prior to being on the Campbell Police Force, where he worked for 33 years before retiring as a Lieutenant.
Joe enjoyed polkas, crosswords, golf, casinos, traveling, big bands and football.
He leaves to cherish his memory, his wife of 53 years, the former Margaret Stransky; two daughters, Monica (Dr. Michael) Doctor of Petoskey, Mich. and Missy (Tom) Robbins of Park City, Utah; five grandchildren, whom he loved dearly, Dane, Jill, Molly, Keaton and Grey; and a sister, Sister Irene Mraz, VSC.
He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, John and Michael Mraz; and three sisters, Mary Bozich, Dorothy Bunyoff and Margaret O’Dea.
The Mraz family has entrusted their loved one to the care of the Wasko Funeral Home and will receive friends today from 5 to 8 p.m.
Wanda M. Onder, 90
AUSTINTOWN – Graveside services will be held at 1:30 p.m. Thursday at Calvary Cemetery with Father Michael Swierz officiating, for Wanda M. Onder, 90, who passed away Sunday morning at Briarfield Manor Nursing Home.
Wanda was born April 27, 1919 in Youngstown, the daughter of Kasimier and Margaret Duran Komsa, and was a lifelong area resident.
She was the manager of the girls department at Hills Department Store, retiring after 21 years.
She leaves to cherish her memory her daughter, Patricia A. (Michael) Berilla of Concord Township; two grandchildren, Michael Berilla III of Napa, Calif. and Sharon (Gregory) Crudele of Granville; great-grandchildren, Marissa and Matthew Crudele and Ryan and Justin Berilla; brothers, Steve Komsa of Canfield and Albert Komsa of Boardman; and sisters, Helen Komsa of Canfield, Gertrude Evanoski of New Castle, Pa., Pauline Romano of New York and Charlotte Dudzik of Milwaukee, Wis.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Joseph; a son, Joseph E. Onder Jr.; brothers, William and Edward Komsa; and a sister, Lottie DeLuga.
The Onder family has entrusted the arrangements of their loved one to the care of the Wasko Funeral Home.
Janet Louise Parker, 69
AUSTINTOWN – Funeral services will be held Thursday at 11 a.m. at the Western Reserve United Methodist Church for Janet Louise Parker, 69, who died Sunday evening at St. Elizabeth Health Center.
Janet was born June 27, 1940 in Youngstown to the late Chester and Margaret (Longstreet) Gerthung.
She was a graduate of Austintown Fitch High School, class of 1958. She was a member of the Club Girls for over 50 years, and the Tops Club since its inception in 2001. She was a proud member of the Western Reserve United Methodist Church, where she served on the Financial Committee.
Janet attended beauty school, was a beautician for many years. Janet and her husband, Bernie, owned and operated Bernie’s Homemade Ice Cream and Custard for many years.
Janet was preceded in death by her parents and a brother.
She is survived by her husband of 48 years, Bernie Parker, and they were married Sept. 9, 1961. She also leaves a daughter, Dianne Parker, at home; a son, Randy Parker of Youngstown; two sisters, the Rev. Carole McCartney of Raleigh, N.C. and Darlene Wells of Corry, Pa.; a brother, David Gerthug of Myrtle Beach, S.C.; four grandchildren, Kelsey Parker and Tamara, Tessa and Tabitha Fairborn; a great-granddaughter, Demara; and several nieces and nephews, who lives out of town.
Friends may call today from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Higgins-Reardon Funeral Home, Austintown Chapel and friends may also call one hour prior to services at the church on Thursday, from 10 to 11 a.m.
Burial will be at Green Haven Memorial Gardens.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that monetary donations be made to the Western Reserve United Methodist Church.
Visit www.higgins-reardon.com to view this obituary and to send condolences.
Timothy Phillips, 47
YOUNGSTOWN – Timothy Phillips, 47, passed away on Thursday, Sept. 24.
Timothy was born Oct. 23, 1961 in Youngstown, a son of Cobie Sr. and Adell Jackson Phillips.
He attended East High School and had been employed at Infocision and was a student at Youngstown State University.
He loved to rebuild cars and he also loved dogs, but most of all he really loved his family.
Timothy is survived by three brothers, Cobie Phillips Jr., Michael (Roxann) Phillips and Matthew (June) Abrams, all of Youngstown; and six sisters, Betty (Phillip) Whitman and Linda and Keisha Phillips, all of Youngstown, Earnestine (Clarence) Phillips of Ashtabula, Vanessa Phillips of Atlanta and Roberta (Robert) Phillips of Jefferson.
He was preceded in death by his parents; a daughter, Tellie Phillips; and a brother, Ray Hayes.
A memorial service will be held on Thursday at 11 a.m. at the McGuffey Road Church of God.
Caring arrangements have been entrusted to the Howard-Rhoden Memorial Home.
Stephen P. Smith Jr., 87
STRUTHERS – Services will be held Friday at 10 a.m. at the Szabo & Sons Funeral Home in Youngstown and at 10:30 a.m. at St. Stephen of Hungary Church for Stephen P. Smith Jr., 87, who passed away Saturday following complications from diabetes.
Stephen was born Sept. 27, 1921 in Youngstown, a son of Stephen and Mary Tanzer Smith.
He was a paintline supervisor for Truscon Steel and taught engine rebuilding at Lordstown and the Mahoning County Joint Vocational School.
Stephen was a member of St. Stephen of Hungary Church, the Holy Name Society and the Silver and Gold Senior Citizens. He also was a 3rd Degree Knight of Columbus, past commodore of the Lake Milton Boat Club, a member of Mahoning County Remote Control Airplane Club and a Ham Radio Operator. Stephen was a World War II Army veteran, serving in the European Theatre under General George Patton during the Battle of the Bulge and received a Bronze Star.
He married Barbara Mae Gerthung, and she passed away in 1956. He later married Alice Flink, and she passed away in 1998.
Stephen is survived by five sons, Stephen (Eva) Smith III of Poland, Frank (Suzanne) Smith of Portland, Ore., Pat (Alberta) Grant of Lowellville, Gary (Judy) Smith of Struthers and James (Tricia) Smith of Liberty; eight grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; a brother, Elmer of North Lima; and a sister, Virginia (Ted) Kinnick of Boardman.
A brother, William Smith is deceased.
Friends may call from 5 to 8 p.m. on Thursday at the Szabo & Sons Funeral Home in Youngstown.
Interment will be held at Calvary Cemetery.
Carl A. Storey, 79
AUSTINTOWN – There will be funeral services at 11 a.m. today at the Lane Funeral Home, Austintown Chapel for Carl A. Storey, 79, who died early Sunday morning at Hospice House in Poland.
He was born Feb. 16, 1930 in McKeesport, the son of Howard and Luinea (Nystrom) Storey.
Carl was an electrician for Youngstown Sheet and Tube for 40 years before retiring. He was also a veteran of the U.S. Army during the Korean War.
He graduated from North High School in 1948. Carl enjoyed boating and fishing. He attended the Kinsman Senior Citizen Center, where he enjoyed playing cards. He enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren.
Carl married the former Alice Marie McGraw on Nov. 25, 1950, and she preceded him in death in May of 2005.
Carl is survived by three children, Carl Storey Jr. of Austintown, Cathy (Andy) Eippert of Mineral Ridge and JoAnn (Tom) Yoder of Berlin Center. He also leaves behind five grandchildren, Andy Eippert of Mt. Pocono, Amanda (R.J.) Basile of Youngstown, Kristin (Matt) Law of Vermont, Danielle Yoder of Berlin Center and Stephanie Storey of Mineral Ridge. He also leaves two great-grandchildren, Rocco and Gracie Basile, both of Youngstown.
Besides his wife, Carl was preceded in death by a son, Andy Storey; two brothers, Jim and Charles Storey; and a sister, Evelyn Laskey.
Friends and family may call Tuesday from 5 to 8 p.m. and today from 10 to 11 a.m. at the Lane Funeral Home, Austintown Chapel.
In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that memorial contributions be made to Hospice House, 9803 Sharrott Road, Poland, OH 44514.
Family and friends may visit www.lanefuneralhomes.com to view this obituary and send condolences.
Amanda Dawn Tenney, 23
GIRARD – Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday at the Lane Funeral Home, Mineral Ridge Chapel for Amanda Dawn Tenney, 23, who died Saturday evening at Forum Health Trumbull Memorial Hospital.
Amanda was born April 7, 1986 in Warren, the daughter of Donal and Brenda (Lowe) Tenney.
She graduated from Mineral Ridge High School in 2004 and was a loving mother to her two children.
Amanda is survived by her two children, Leena and Marcus Pickett; her parents of Mineral Ridge; a brother, Jason Tenney of Mineral Ridge; grandparents, Forest and Neva Tenney of Mineral Ridge and David and Wanda Lowe of Mineral Ridge; two great-grandmothers, Mary Lowe of Warren and Ressie Zickefoose of Buchannan, W.Va.; and her companion, Paul Michael Pickett, with whom she made her home in Girard.
Friends may call at the funeral home from 4 to 8 p.m. today.
The family requests that material contributions be made to the family in lieu of flowers.
Family and friends may visit www.lanefuneralhomes.com to view this obituary and send condolences.
Jack Terrago Sr., 84
AUSTINTOWN - Prayers will begin Friday morning at 10 a.m. at the Higgins-Reardon Funeral Home, Austintown Chapel followed by a Mass of Christian Burial celebrated at 10:30 a.m. at the Immaculate Heart of Mary Church for Jack Terrago Sr., 84, who died early Tuesday morning at St. Elizabeth Health Center.
Jack was born Jan. 18, 1925 in Youngstown, the son of Nicholas and Congetta Simone Terrago.
After graduating from Chaney High School, Jack served our country in the Army in Italy and France during World War II. He later worked at Commercial Shearing for 44 years, retiring as a plant manager in 1987. He was a member of the Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, its senior citizens, the VFW, American Legion Post and was a volunteer for St. Vincent DePaul Society. Jack also loved to fish and golf, and was an avid Ohio State football fan.
His wife, the former Linda M. Hammond, whom he married Sept. 20, 1943, died March 7, 2002.
He is survived by his daughter, Linda M. Terrago of Austintown; three sons, Dominic Jack (Betty) Jr. of Austintown, Paul N. (Rita) of North Carolina and Joseph A. of Struthers; two sisters, Mary Dolvin of Florida and Jeanette Kabealo of Columbus; eight grandchildren; and two great-grandsons.
Besides his wife, he was preceded in death by a brother, Albert Terrago and four sisters, Josephine Williams, Edith Paylor, Pauline Roberts and Yolanda Nelis.
Friends may call from 4 to 8 p.m. on Thursday at the Higgins-Reardon Funeral Home, Austintown Chapel.
Visit www.higgins-reardon.com to view this tribute and to send condolences.
Steve VanSuch, 79
STRUTHERS – Steve VanSuch, 79, passed away Monday evening at St. Elizabeth Boardman Health Center surrounded by his family.
Steve was born Oct. 25, 1929 in Campbell, a son of Steve and Julia Milikant VanSuch and was raised in Campbell.
A 1947 graduate of Campbell Memorial High School, Steve enlisted in the U.S. Army and served in the Korean Conflict. Returning from the service, he attended several colleges including Youngstown College.
Steve worked in numerous positions throughout his life, beginning as a supervisor-mechanic for Firestone in Akron. Firestone transferred Steve to Liberia, Africa, where he supervised the machinery used on the rubber plantations. In 1962, he traveled to Spain and met his wife, Carmen Perez-Morales and they were married Aug. 12, 1966 in Helsinki, Finland. In 1964, he was employed by Ray Geophysical in Houston, which later became Halliburton, as a seismograph technologist. He and his family resided in Beirut, Lebanon, while working in the Persian Gulf for one year. The desire to be with family, Steve, his wife, Carmen and daughter Nina, who was born in Beirut, returned to New Middletown in December of 1967 and he opened Van’s Auto Body. One year later, they moved to Struthers, where he resided ever since. During that time, Steve worked in various jobs and in 1974 was employed by Cold Metal Products in Campbell as a millwright. He retired in 1989 after 15 years of service.
Steve was a member of the Holy Trinity Church in Struthers, the former VFW in Campbell, and a former member of the American Legion in Campbell. Steve’s passion was gardening, and he had a beautiful vegetable garden. He enjoyed high school football, and loved traveling the world and the United States, where he has been to every state with the exception of Alaska. Steve’s greatest joys were his children and grandchildren.
Steve leaves his devoted and loving wife, Carmen; three children, Nina VanSuch of Pittsburgh, Stephen C. and his wife, Dianna VanSuch of Canfield and Julie VanSuch of New York City; and two grandchildren, Stephen A. and Savanna VanSuch. He also leaves many nieces, nephews and cousins throughout the world.
Besides his parents, Steve was preceded in death by his three brothers, Mike, Ed and John VanSuch.
Services will be held Friday at 9:30 a.m. at the Davidson-Becker Funeral Home in Struthers and 10 a.m. at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church also in Struthers, with Fr. Petrunak officiating. Interment will follow at St. John Cemetery.
Friends will be received Thursday from 4 to 7 p.m. at the funeral home.
Steve’s family would like to extend their sincere gratitude for the wonderful care he received at Beeghly Oaks Nursing Home.
Please visit www.beckerobits.com to view this obituary and send condolences.
Dianne Vecchiarelli, 44
HUBBARD – Dianne Vecchiarelli, 44, passed away after a brief illness on Saturday, Sept. 26, 2009, at Forum Health Northside Medical Center in Youngstown.
She was born Nov. 15, 1964 in Youngstown, the daughter of the late Frank Vecchiarelli Sr. and Joanne (Bonace) Vecchiarelli.
The family includes her mother, Joanne Vecchiarelli of Lowellville; three brothers, Rocco Vecchiarelli, Frank Vecchiarelli Jr. and Emil Vecchiarelli, all of Lowellville; and her grandmother, Philomenia Bonace of Boardman.
She was preceded in death by her father, Frank Vecchiarelli Sr.; grandfather, Lewis Bonace; and grandparents, Emil and Margaret Vecchiarelli.
Dianne was a graduate of Lowellville High School and enjoyed music, concerts and spending time at church activities. She was formerly employed in the bakery department at Apples Grocery Store and as an aide at Maplecrest Nursing Home.
Calling hours will be at the Fabrizio Funeral Home, 619 East Indianola Ave. in Youngstown today from 6 to 8 p.m. and Thursday, Oct. 1, from 10 to 11 a.m.
Her services will be at St. Patrick Church in Hubbard at noon on Thursday, Oct. 1, 2009.
The family wishes to extend their thanks to the Surgical Intensive Care Unit at Forum Health Northside Medical Center.
Richard W. (Bill)
Zorn, 81
“Together Again”
AUSTINTOWN – Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. today at the Redeemer Lutheran Church in Austintown for Richard W. Zorn, 81, who died early Sunday morning at St. Elizabeth Health Center in Boardman.
He was born Jan. 18, 1928, in Berlin, Pa., a son of Harold and Ruth (Clapper) Zorn and he came to this area in 1950.
He was a 1946 graduate of Brothersvalley High School in Berlin and he was also a veteran of the U.S. Army serving during the Korean War.
He worked for Ohio Bell as a cable splicing supervisor for 32 years before retiring in 1986.
He was a member of the Redeemer Lutheran Church. He enjoyed boating, fishing and spending time with family and friends.
He married the former Alice Werner on June 8, 1953, and she preceded him in death on March 30, 2002.
He is survived by two children, William H. (Barbara) Zorn and Debra (Steve Bobalik) Zorn, both of Austintown; and three sisters, Delores (Jay) Whipkey of Berlin, Pa., Ginny (Tony) Tattarelli of Sun City, Fla., and Phyllis Kendall of Trenton, N.J.
Besides his wife, he was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Eugene.
Friends may call from 5 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at the Lane Funeral Home, Austintown Chapel and from 10 to 11 a.m. today at the church.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorial contributions be made to the Redeemer Lutheran Church in Richard’s memory.
Family and friends may visit www.lanefuneralhomes.com to view this obituary and send condolences.
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