Tributes by Date:

Death records from 2000 to current are also available to Vindy.com subscribers in the online archive

- ADVERTISEMENT -

Tributes 2009-10-18

Edward Guy Byrdy, 63

LIBERTY – There will be a memorial service held on Monday, Oct. 19, 2009, at 11 a.m. at the Trinity Fellowship Church, 4749 South Ave., Youngstown, with Edward’s brother-in law, Pastor Don Scott Monaco, officiating, for Edward Guy Byrdy, 63, who passed away Saturday, Oct. 10, 2009, after a 9-month courageous battle with cancer.

Edward will always be remembered and loved by his family and friends.

He was born March 12, 1946, in Youngstown, the son of Edward H. and Mary (Marinelli) Byrdy, and was a lifelong area resident.

He was employed with Packard Electric as a draftsman, then with Wean United and Girard Machine Company as a machinist, and later was supervisor for Universal Rundle in New Castle and Vinyl Source.

Edward was a U.S. Army veteran, and was a 1964 graduate of Ursuline High School, where he played football. He was a member of the Trinity Fellowship Church, along with being a big Pittsburgh Steelers fan. Edward enjoyed camping and golfing, but he truly loved just spending time with his grandchildren.

He leaves behind to hold onto his memories, his wife, the former Diana Langenheim, whom he married April 17, 1970; a daughter, Dena (Tony) DeRenzis of Liberty; and four grandchildren, Nathan, Rachel, Hannah and Brianna.

Edward was preceded in death by his parents and grandparents.

Friends may call on Monday, Oct. 19, 2009, from 10 to 10:55 a.m. at the Trinity Fellowship Church in Youngstown.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the professional care of the Rossi & Santucci Funeral Home, 4700 Market St., Boardman.

View Image

Rita Lillian (Nally) Casey, 91

NORTHFIELD, MINN. – Rita Lillian Casey (Nally), 91, passed away at home with her family on Tuesday, Sept. 15, 2009. She was a cancer survivor for the past 25 years.

Rita was born July 17, 1918 in Youngstown, and was a daughter of Michael J. Nally and Julia Vahey Nally, who immigrated from Co. Mayo, Ireland.

She attended St. Patrick’s School, South High School in Youngstown, and attended various classes at Youngstown State University.

Her work experience began as an assistant in the X-Ray Department of Youngstown’s Southside Hospital.

Her husband, the former William J. Casey, whom she married June 1, 1940, died Christmas Day in 1968.

Rita joined Bill, a Navy radio technician in the Great Lakes Region, six months after their wedding and became a clerk/typist for the Officers’ Personnel Medical Records Department. She worked part-time at the Boardman Library and the Library of The Ursuline Convent’s Mother House, both in Youngstown. She retired as secretary for the Physics and Astronomy Department at Youngstown State University. Rita moved to Northfield, Minn., in 1984 to be closer to family.

Rita was a member of the Youngstown State University Women’s Club and the Northfield Hospital Auxiliary. In the past, she belonged to Junior Seton Club of Youngstown and St. Charles Mission Club.

She was a member of St. Dominic’s Parish and St. Mary’s Unit in Northfield. She was a participant in the University of Minnesota’s Blepharospasm Vision Research Study and a member of it’s Association.

Rita loved gardening and grew and rescued African Violets. She enjoyed travel, birdwatching, dancing and a variety of music. She was an avid reader, cook and sports fan. She loved all things Irish and traveled to the Isle several times.

She cherished her immediate and extended family and was always a support to her nieces and nephews. The friendships in her life were greatly valued.

Rita will be remembered with love by her son, William J. Casey of Salt Lake City; and daughter, Mary Casey of Northfield; a sister, Patricia Brown of Boardman; and brother Joseph (Marge) Nally of Canfield.

Her memory will continue to bless her grandchildren, Stephan Gorka of Northfield and Julia Gorka of Faribault, Minn.

Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by her brothers, Thomas “Ty,” John and Edwin Nally; and her sisters, Mary Kennedy, Julia and Kathleen Nally.

A celebration Mass was held Sept. 19, at The Church of St. Dominic in Northfield.

Graveside services will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 28, 2009, at Calvary Cemetery in Youngstown.

Contributions may be made to the Our Lady of Victory Homes and the Benign Essential Blepharospasm Research Foundation.

Rita’s family is grateful for the love and compassion of Northfield Hospice, Home Health and Home Instead Services.

Funeral arrangements are being handled by the Bierman Funeral Home of Northfield.

View Image

Anthony Cencia, 44

POLAND – There was a Mass of Christian Burial held on Friday, Oct. 16, 2009, at the Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church in Youngstown, with the Very Rev. Msgr. Michael J. Cariglio officiating, for Anthony Cencia, 44, who passed away on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2009.

Anthony will always be loved and remembered by his family and friends.

He was born Feb. 16, 1965, in Youngstown, the son of Armando and Adriana (Moroni) Cencia, and was a lifelong area resident.

Anthony was employed as a foreman for 16 years with Polaris Technologies. He was a member of the Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, and was a 1983 graduate of Boardman High School. Anthony enjoyed playing golf and bocce, and was a big New York Jets and NASCAR fan.

Anthony leaves behind to hold onto his memories, his wife, the former Shari Hart, whom he married on Oct. 24, 1989; three brothers, Joseph (Patricia) Cencia of Boardman, Dino (Bo) Cencia of Poland and Robert (Loretta) Cencia of Cumberland, Va.; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Donald (Jeanette) Hart of West Liberty; a brother-in-law, Kevin (Valerie) Hart; a sister-in-law, Deborah (Joseph) Cordeiro; four nephews, Christopher Cencia, Dino Cencia, Joseph Cordeiro and Luke Hart; his nieces, Andrea Oliver, Kristine Cencia, Carrington Cordeiro, Courtney Osborne, Jennifer Fellows and Cassidy Cordeiro; and a great-niece, Lila Joy Oliver.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the professional care of the Rossi & Santucci Funeral Home, 4700 Market St., Boardman.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that material contributions can be made in Anthony’s name to the Tri County Autism, 3 Centennial Dr., Poland, OH 44514.

View Image

Daisy Lou Chesnut, 80

YOUNGSTOWN - Daisy Lou Chesnut, 80, died Friday, Oct. 16, 2009, at the St. Elizabeth Boardman Health Center.

Mrs. Chesnut was born Nov. 12, 1928, in Parker, Pa., a daughter of James and Daisy Gibb Anthony.

Mrs. Chesnut worked as a cafeteria worker for Youngstown Board of Education for 17 years and retired in 1991. She was also a member of Ladies Auxiliary for the American Legion and VFW in Parker, Pa.

Mrs. Chesnut loved playing the lottery, enjoyed traveling and camping with her husband at their camp in the Holiday Camp Land in Andover. She also enjoyed spending time with her husband, family and especially her grandson, Michael, who called her “Nana.”

She will be sadly missed by all who knew her

She leaves her husband, Gordon Chesnut, whom she married July 15, 1965; two daughters, Bonnie (David Sinkus) Perry of Greenville, Pa., and Terri (Michael III) Katula of Struthers; seven grandchildren, Timothy, Bill, Dawn Louise, Daniel, Michael, Debbie, Harold; 19 great-grandchildren; four great-great grandchild; and two brothers, John and Frederick Anthony, both of Parker, Pa.

Besides her parents, she was preceded in death by one brother, Walter Anthony, and two infant children.

Family and friends will be received Monday from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Davidson-Becker Funeral Home in Struthers, where funeral services will he held Tuesday at 1:30 p.m.

Please visit www.beckerobits.com to send condolences.

View Image

Erla Winnifred (Strom) Chrystal

BARRINGTON, R.I. – Erla Winnifred (Strom) Chrystal, formerly of Boardman, Youngstown, Columbus, Hilliard and Worthington, peacefully passed away with dignity and grace late Wednesday evening, Oct. 7, 2009, with loving family at her side.

She had recently moved to Frasier Meadows Manor in Boulder, Colo., from East Bay Manor in Barrington, where she resided since 2005.

In addition to being an avid Ohio State Buckeye fan, Erla was very active as a gardener, antiques collector and homemaker, with earlier involvement as a singer, piano player and photographer. Community volunteer throughout her life in an array of organizations such as The American Red Cross Gray Lady Service, Bells for Mental Health, Columbus Museum of Art/Beaux Arts, Worthington Arts Council, Historical Society and Women’s Clubs the First Community Church/ Couples Circle, Franklin County 4H, the All American Youth Horse Show, Bluebirds/Campfire Girls and March of Dimes. Family, friends, bridge and golfing at Brookside, Del., and York Country Clubs were passions she pridefully shared alongside her late husband, Jack Chrystal, with whom she also traveled extensively through his tenures as a World War II , Korean War and U.S. Naval Aviator and his affiliations with the American Chain Association, Jeffrey Manufacturing Company and R. S. Fling & Partners.

“Earl the Pearl” leaves behind her three children and their spouses, Sharyn Lynn Chrystal Vogel and Dr. Robert A. Vogel of Annapolis, Md., John Michael and Deborah DeCapita Chrystal of Belhaven, N.C., and Cathleen Chrystal DeCoster and David C. DeCoster of Boulder; and her four grandchildren include, Elizabeth DiFalco Helgans of Boulder, Abbey Elizabeth Chrystal of Los Alamos, N.M., Dylan Cole DeCoster of Seattle and Jacklyn Chrystal DeCoster of Boulder. Delaney Grace, Charlotte Elizabeth and Jasper Elias Helgans are her three young great-grandchildren, who fondly called her “Great Grams.”

The family plans her “Early Bird” interment for May 16, 2010, at Flint Cemetery (aka Gardner Cemetery) in Worthington, Ohio. For more information contact: lloons@juno.com.

Tax deductible donations in Erla Chrystal’s honor can be made via check or PayPal to: The Orphan Foundation of American, Scholarship Fund, 21351 Gentry Drive, Suite 130, Sterling, VA 20166, Phone (571) 203-0270.

Information about this organization can be accessed here: http://orphan.org/index.php?id=9 or http://www.charitynavigator.org/index.cfm?bay=search.summary&orgid=6219.

M. P. Murphy & Associates Funeral Directors is handling arrangments.

View Image

Erskine Crenshaw Jr., 81

YOUNGSTOWN – Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Tuesday at Union Baptist Church for Erskine Crenshaw Jr., 81, who departed this life Tuesday, Oct. 13, 2009, at St. Elizabeth Health Center.

Mr. Crenshaw was born July 27, 1928, in Youngstown, a son of Erskine Sr. and Mary Shelton Crenshaw.

He was manager for Sohio Service Station for 40 years. He was a member of the church, a former trustee and Chairman of the Culinary Ministry.

He leaves his wife, the former Evelyn Carter, whom he married June 1, 1946; two sons, Raymond Crenshaw and Erskine Crenshaw; three daughters, Joyce (Robert) Kirk, Donna Crenshaw and Darlyne Crenshaw; and a brother, Oscar (Eula) Mosely, all of Youngstown; 11 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; and eight great-great-grandchildren.

His parents and a sister, Ruth Tillman, preceded him in death.

Viewing will be Monday from noon to 4 p.m.

Friends may call one hour prior to the service on Tuesday at church.

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

View Image

Patricia Ann Dean, 73

LORDSTOWN – Patricia Ann Dean, 73, passed away suddenly on Friday, Oct. 16, 2009, in New York City, N.Y., after an apparent heart attack.

Born Feb. 22, 1936, in Warren, she was the daughter of the late John and Helen (Banovich) Machuzak

Pat was a 1955 graduate of Warren G. Harding High School, she retired in 1999 from St. Joseph Hospital where she worked as a medical technician for 27 years. She was a member of the Christ Our King Church. Pat was devoted to her family, she enjoyed roller skating with her husband and golf. Most of all she adored her grandchildren and enjoyed spending time watching them participate in sports. Cleaning up messy kitchens where big family meals where prepared, seeing to it that the laundry was always immediately done, and tending to the needs of her family were just a few of things that made her the wonderful wife, mother and grandmother that she was.

She will be deeply missed by her loving husband, Ralph E. Dean, whom she married Nov. 19, 1955, and with whom she shared 53 years of marriage; two daughters, Cheri (Tom) Hill of Plain City and Lori (Bob) Murray of Dublin; six grandchildren, Kristin, Joseph, Delaney and Luke Murray and Robert and Edward Fini; a brother, Daniel (Bernie) Machuzak of Warren; sister, Helen (Bill) Frederick of Leavittsburg; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by a daughter, Debra Fini; a son, Mark Dean; and by a sister, Donna Jean Machuzak.

Calling hours will be held Wednesday from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Roberts-Clark Funeral Chapel. The Rev. James Walker will conduct a funeral Mass on Thursday, Oct. 22, 2009, at 11 a.m. at the Christ Our King Church.

Burial will be held at Sager Memorial Cemetery.

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

View Image

Delores M. Drabenstadt, 78

“Together Again”

STRUTHERS – Delores M. Drabenstadt, 78, died Wednesday evening at Akron City Hospital.

Delores, also known as “Dee,” was born Feb. 21, 1931, in Youngstown, a daughter of Francis and Laverne McKensie Billock.

Dee attended Wilson High School and worked as a waitress for 34 years at various restaurants, including the Colonial House and Fonderlac Country Club, and retired from Forum Health in food service.

Dee was a member of St. Nicholas Roman Catholic Church in Struthers.

Her husband, William E. Drabenstadt, whom she married July 29, 1950, died March 18, 2007.

She leaves three daughters, Kathy (Melvin) Conner of Akron, Laurinda (James) Mayor of Struthers and Lisa (Jerry) Woods of Pulaski, Pa.; one son, Ronald (Tracy) Drabenstadt of Glen Hope, Pa.; five sisters, Alice Melnick Andio, Betty Fabek, Dora Czarnecki and Laverne Obenof, all of Ohio, and Beverly Kirner of California; 15 grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.

Besides her parents and husband, Dee was preceded in death by her son, Billy Drabenstadt; and two brothers, Robert and Francis Billock.

Funeral services will be Tuesday at 9:15 a.m. at the Davidson-Becker Funeral Home in Struthers and at 10 a.m. at St. Nicholas Roman Catholic Church, with Fr. Bernard Bonnot officiating. Interment will follow at the Lake Park Cemetery.

Friends will be received Monday from 5 to 8 p.m. at the funeral home.

Contributions may be made to the Make-A-Wish Foundation or the American Lung Association.

“God looked around His garden and found an empty place

He then looked down upon this earth and saw your tired face.

He put His arms around you, and He lifted you to rest.

God’s garden must be beautiful--He only takes the best!

He knew that you were suffering, He knew you were in pain,

He knew that you would never get well on earth again.

He saw the road was getting rough, and the hills were hard to climb,

So He closed your weary eyelids and whispered ‘Peace be thine.’

It broke our hearts to lose you but you didn’t go alone,

For part of us went with you the day God called you home.”

Please visit www.beckerobits.com to send condolences.

View Image

Susan Dyll, 81

SHARON, PA. – Susan Dyll, 81, of 1010 Haig St., passed away peacefully at 1:40 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 16, 2009, at her residence, with family at her side.

She was born on Jan. 28, 1928, in Sharon, the daughter of Michael and Susan Ocenas Tomko.

A lifelong city resident, she graduated from Sharon High School in 1946. She was employed at the former Sharon Westinghouse as a clerk in the Payroll department, and later worked for several years in the Admitting office at Sharon General Hospital, and retired in the early 1980s.

A homemaker, she was an active member of Sts. Peter and Paul Evangelical Lutheran Church in Sharon, where she was a member of the Alter Guild and worked as a pre-school aide. She also co-chaired the church food pantry, and in her early years enjoyed singing in the church choir. Her greatest hobby was giving to others and she found her greatest joy when spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren whom she loved dearly.

Her husband, John N. Dyll, whom she married on April 25, 1953, survives at the residence. She is also survived by her daughter, Lynne Spanos and husband Mark of Sharon; her son, Mark Dyll and wife Donna of Lewis Center; four grandchildren, Nicholas and Daniel Spanos and Mackenzie and Madison Dyll; two sisters, Anne Colt and husband Ed of Hermitage and Dorothy Dutka and husband Jim of Westlake; and her brother, Rudy and wife Jean of Hermitage. She is also survived by her many nieces and nephews, and sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, who’s love and support was unending.

She was preceded in death by five brothers, Michael, John, Paul, Andrew and Edward Tomko; one sister, Mary Vanette; an infant son, Rick Allen; and two nephews, Ed Colt and Donald Tomko.

Memorial contributions may be made in her memory to Sharon Regional Home Hospice and Palliative Care, 2320 Highland Road in Hermitage or to the food pantry at Sts. Peter and Paul Evangelical Lutheran Church, 699 Stambaugh Ave., Sharon, PA 16148

Calling hours from 4 to 8 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 19, 2009, at the J. Bradley McGonigle Funeral Home and Crematory Inc., 1090 E. State St. in Sharon.

A funeral service will begin at 10 a.m. on Tuesday in Sts. Peter and Paul Evangelical Lutheran Church, with the Rev. Jeffrey M. Harter, pastor, officiating.

Interment will be at Hillcrest Memorial Park in Hermitage.

Visit www.McGonigleFuneralHomeandCrematory.com to send condolences.

View Image

Stephanie Grzywna, 85

LIBERTY – Funeral services will be held Tuesday at 9:30 a.m. at the Kubina-Yuhasz Funeral Home, 5925 Market St. in Boardman, with a Mass of Christian Burial following at 10 a.m. at St. Stanislaus Church in Youngstown, for Stephanie Grzywna, 85, who passed away early the morning of Oct. 15 at her home.

Stephanie was born July 6, 1924, in Poland, Europe, a daughter of Stefan and Elizabeth Karniewicz.

Coming to the United States in 1949, she settled in Youngstown and was employed by the city’s school system for 35 years, retiring in 1987. A longtime member of St. Stanislaus Church, she was also a member of its Infant Jesus of Prague Guild and the Altar and Rosary Sodality. She also belonged to Polish National Alliance Group 827.

Stephanie is survived by her husband, Joseph Grzywna Sr., whom she married May 20, 1947; her daughter, Irene Sabo of Canfield; her sons, Wesley (Susie) Grzywna of Cortland, Joseph (Zena) Grzywna Jr. of Philadelphia, Stanley (Betty) Grzywna of Elyria and Steve Grzywna of Poland; her sister, Janina Karniewicz of Youngstown; and her eight grandchildren, Brian and Heather Sabo, Jason, Jarred and Jillian Grzywna, Sarah and Laura Grzywna, and Alexandra Grzywna.

Friends may call on Monday at the funeral home from 4 to 7 p.m., where a combined prayer service will be held by the Infant Jesus of Prague Guild and the Altar and Rosary Sodality at 3:45 p.m.

Interment will take place at Resurrection Cemetery.

Visit kubinayuhasz@sbcglobal.net to send condolences.

LaVerne W. Halfacre

DAYTON – LaVerne W. Halfacre passed away Tuesday, Sept. 22, 2009, at Arbors of Dayton Nursing Home.

She was born Feb. 13, 1930, in Youngstown to the union of Charles and Birdie Welcher.

She retired from the Veterans Administration Medical Center after 30 years of service. LaVerne was a member of the Residence Park United Methodist Church since 1966, and enjoyed serving as treasurer and in various other ministries.

She was preceded in death by Walter Halfacre; her brother, Paul Welcher; and her cousin, Dorismarie Welcher, both of New York, N.Y.; and her brother-in-law, Frankie Halfacre of Youngstown.

She leaves to cherish her memory, her loving sons, Stewart (Stephanie) Halfacre of Dayton and Vincent Halfacre of McAllen, Texas; brother Jollis Welcher (Molly) of Youngstown; sisters Twila (Fred) Norman of Denver and Cynthia (Kenneth) Moore of Youngstown; sister-in-law, Mary Halfacre of Youngstown; three beautiful granddaughters, Veronica and Victoria Halfacre and Akiya Holt; and a host of nieces, nephews and many loyal friends.

View Image

Francis “Frank” M. Jones, 76

YOUNGSTOWN – There will be a memorial service at 11 a.m. Monday at the Central Congregation of Jehovah Witnesses of Youngstown, 12 E. Dewey Ave. in Youngstown, for Francis “Frank” M. Jones who passed away Thursday afternoon at St. Elizabeth’s Health Center.

Mr. Jones was born Sept. 19, 1933, in Warren, the son of Sherwood G. and Linda M. Weibert Jones.

He attended Mineral Ridge High School and had lived in Youngstown for the past 40 years. He worked for McCruden Heating as a clerk and retired in 1987. Frank was a veteran of the U.S. Army.

He is survived by his wife, Dorothy Markwell, whom he married Feb. 19, 1965. He leaves a son, Ken (Margaret) Jones of Boardman; two grandchildren, Kenny and Megan of Boardman; six sisters, Arveda Whetstone and Roberta Elias, both of Mineral Ridge, Sally Hawkins of Lake Milton, Mary Zupp of Warren, Gail Daus of Girard and Jean Knable of Austintown; and a number of nieces and nephews.

Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Michael Jones, who died July 11, 2008.

There will be no calling hours and arrangements are by the Fox Funeral Home.

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

View Image

Frederick T. Miller, 57

YOUNGSTOWN – Frederick T. Miller, 57, died Friday afternoon, Oct. 16, 2009, at his residence.

He was born July 4, 1952, in Youngstown, a son of Frederick and Maryann Malsack Miller, and was a lifelong area resident.

Mr. Miller worked for the LTV Steel Corp. and was a former member of the Bessemer Gun Club and the Mahoning Valley Sportsman Club. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and working with stained glass.

He leaves his father, Frederick Miller of Youngstown; two brothers, Daniel M. (Regina) Miller and Robert M. Miller, both of Youngstown; a sister, Patricia Miller of Youngstown; a niece and nephew, Elaine R. Miller and Daniel M. Miller Jr., both of Youngstown; his companion, Susan Webster of Austintown, and her granddaughter, Kory Ann Webster of Austintown, who was a special little girl in Fred’s life.

He was preceded in death by his mother; a sister, Joann Miller; and his grandparents, Peter and Edith Malsack, Daniel Miller and Sarah Miller Froelick.

There will be no calling hours or services.

Arrangements are being 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.

Dorothy J. Mollineaux, 85

POLAND – Dorothy J. Mollineaux, 85, of Yellow Creek Road, died Friday, Oct. 16, 2009, at Sunrise Assisted Living, after a six-year battle with Alzheimer’s.

Mrs. Mollineaux was born Sept. 28, 1924, in Syracuse, N.Y,. a daughter of Charles and Bertha Snyder Roebuck, and moved to Poland in January of 1974.

She was a 1942 graduate of Oak Knoll High School in Summit, N.J. Mrs. Mollineaux was a homemaker and was a member of the Holy Family Church in Poland where she belonged to the Altar and Rosary Society. She also was a member of the Trailwood Garden Club, Poland Library and the Carnival Dance Club. Mrs. Mollineaux enjoyed playing bridge and belonged to several bridge clubs.

She is survived by her husband of 61 years, E. Wayne Mollineaux, whom she married July 17, 1948, at the Our Lady of Sorrow Church in South Orange, N.J.; one daughter, Jacqueline (Michael) Gallagher of Spring, Texas; one son, Richard Mollineaux of Washington, D.C.; and three grandchildren, John, Paul and Daniel Gallagher, all of Spring, Texas.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

A private memorial Mass will be celebrated Wednesday at the Holy Family Church in Poland.

Contributions may be made in Dorothy’s name to the Holy Family Church, 2729 Center Road, Poland OH 44514.

Arrangements are being handled by the Cunningham-Becker Funeral Home in Poland.

Visit www.beckerobits.com to send condolences.

Daniel Ralich, 83

SALEM – Daniel Ralich, 83, passed away peacefully, Friday, Oct. 16, 2009, following a brief illness.

Born Oct. 7, 1926, in Monaca, Pa., he was a son of the late Mane and Sophia (Dmitrovich) Ralich.

Mr. Ralich was the owner and president of three heavy duty truck dealerships, R&R Inc. in Youngstown, R&R Inc. of Pennsylvania, located in New Castle, and Cleveland Truck Sales and Service.

He was a faithful member of St. Elijah Serbian Orthodox Church in Aliquippa and a member of Tippecanoe Country Club in Youngstown. A decorated war hero in the U.S. Army, he proudly served his country during World War II. Dan was 32^nd Degree Mason and was a member of the Syria Shrine. He was an accomplished businessman and a devoted husband and father.

Surviving is his wife of 59 years, Mildred (Yoka) Ralich; three daughters and sons-in-law, Evelyn and Robert Savich and Chris and David Hutter, all of Salem and Georgetta and Timothy Darr of Columbus; two grandchildren, Elizabeth Lower and husband Tim of Salem and Christopher Savich and wife Molly of New York; and the light of his life, his great-grandson, Wilson Lower. Also surviving are two brothers and sisters-in-law, George and Hilda Ralich of Salem and Nick and Irene Ralich of Hopewell Township; a sister and brother-in-law, Joanne and Nick Spanovich of Escondido, Calif.; and many loving nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two sisters, Nellie Puskarich and Mary Thomas.

Friends will be received today from 2 to 4 p.m. and from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Tatalovich Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc. Center Township location,3475 Brodhead Road, Monaca, PA 15061.

A blessing service will be held today at 7:30 at the funeral home.

Family and friends will gather on Monday at 10 a.m. at St. Elijah Serbian Orthodox Church, 2200 Main St., Aliquippa, Pa. 15001, where a funeral service will be officiated by his pastor and friend, the Very Rev. Stevan Stepanov.

Interment will follow at St. Elijah Church Cemetery-Hopewell Township, Pa.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Hospice of the Valley, 5190 Market St. in Youngstown.

William Edward Schultz, 83

POLAND – William Edward Schultz, 83, died Wednesday evening at St. Elizabeth Boardman Health Center.

Mr. Schultz, also known as “Bill,” was born June 19, 1926, in Youngstown, a son of Lawrence and May Morley Schultz. He was a lifelong resident of Poland.

A 1944 graduate of Poland Seminary High School, Bill enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps and served in the Pacific during World War II. He achieved the rank of Sergeant and after the war, re-enlisted and was stationed in Hawaii.

Returning to the area, Bill and his father owned and operated Schultz and Sons Marine Supply in Poland from 1949 to 1963. He then worked as an independent manufacturing sales representative from 1963 to 2006.

An active member of the community, Bill, a true “Bull Dog,” was a member and past president of the Poland Booster Club, and a member of the Touch-Down Club. As past president of Poland Village Council and chairman of the Police Committee, Bill was instrumental in the early 80s, setting the ground work for the new Dave Pavlansky Stadium, and for the restoration of the Poland Village Court House.

Bill had a lifelong affection for boating, fishing and water sports, and was a member of the Huron Yacht Club. He enjoyed dancing, and most of all, loved spending time with family and friends.

His wife, the former Marilyn Anderson, whom he married in March of 1951, died in January of 1990.

He leaves two sons, Daniel E. (Sharon) Schultz of Poland and Ronald W. Schultz of Strongsville; three grandchildren, Edwin A. (Shannon) McGuire, Stephanie J. McGuire and Alexandria E. Schultz; and one great-grandchild, Audrey McGuire.

Besides his parents and wife, Bill was preceded in death by his brother, Lawrence E. Schultz.

Friends will be received Monday from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Cunningham-Becker Funeral Home in Poland, with a private family service following at 7 p.m.

Visit www.beckerobits.com. to send condolences.

View Image

Antone “Tony” Schwellinger, 86

AUSTINTOWN - Antone “Tony” Schwellinger, 86, passed away Thursday evening, Oct. 15, 2009, at Sterling House of Youngstown following a brief illness.

Tony was born March 5, 1923, in Milwaukee, Wis., a son of the late Joseph and Katherine Mergel Schwellinger, and came to Youngstown with his family as a child.

He was a World War II U.S. Army veteran and worked as a truck driver for 33 years, retiring from Yelp Motor Freight in 1980. He was a member of Teamsters Union Local No. 377.

Mr. Schwellinger leaves his wife, Helen Nerone Iannarelli Schwellinger, whom he married March 15, 1996; two sons, Mark (Valerie) Schwellinger of Bremmington, Wash., and John (Pat) Schwellinger of Hubbard Township; a daughter, Eleanor (James) Gudzinas of Liberty Township; two stepchildren, Benjamin Iannarelli of North Royalton and Regina (Jim) O’Hara of Dallas, Texas; eight grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

Tony’s first wife, Harriet “Skip” Ossinger Schwellinger, whom he married in 1947, died in 1971. His second wife, Eleanor Clark Schwellinger, died Sept. 19, 1992. He was also preceded in death by his brothers, Joseph, Jack, Martin, Michael, Max, Peter, Adam and John and by his sisters, Mary, Theresa and Nada.

Family and friends may call on Monday, Oct. 19, from 5 to 8 p.m. and on Tuesday, Oct. 20, from 10 to 11 a.m. at Kinnick Funeral Home, 477 N. Meridian Road, Youngstown.

Funeral services will take place at 11 a.m. on Tuesday at the funeral home.

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

View Image

William Sich, 82

HUBBARD – There will be a Mass of Christian Burial Tuesday, Oct. 20 at 1 p.m. at St. Patrick Catholic Church for William Sich, 82, who passed away Friday, Oct. 16 at home.

William was born Oct. 20, 1926, in Youngstown, a son of John and Veronika Swabsky Sich, and was a lifelong area resident.

He was a 1944 graduate of Wilson High School and attended Outboard Marine Corporation Factory School.

William was a mechanic for boat motors for Trigg Marine for 30 years and was later a mechanic for the City of Hubbard for 10 years before retiring in 1992.

He was a member of the Hubbard Conservation Club and the Wing Snappers of Hubbard and was a veteran of the U.S. Air Force.

He is survived by his wife, the former Geraldine Madeline, whom he married Feb. 3, 1951; and his son, William J. (Bonnie) Sich of Hermitage, Pa.; a granddaughter, Alexis E. Sich; and his dog, Missy.

He also leaves three nieces, Betty Ann, Salli and Joane.

Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, John Sich; and his sisters, Rose Holt and Martha Leavitt.

There will be calling hours Monday, Oct. 19 from 6 to 8 p.m. and prayers on Tuesday, Oct. 20 at 12:30 p.m. at Stewart-Kyle Funeral Home.

Burial will be in Hubbard Union Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Patrick Building Fund, 225 North Main St., Hubbard, OH 44425.

Family and friends are invited to visit the funeral home’s Web site at www.stewart-kyle.com to share memories and condolences with the family.

Stewart-Kyle Funeral Home

Providing Funeral Service Since 1850

Peter Suszczynski, 91

STRUTHERS – Peter Suszczynski, 91, died peacefully Friday afternoon at his residence surrounded by his loving family.

Mr. Suszczynski was born Aug. 11, 1918, in Struthers, a son of Joseph and Mary Tarnaski Suszczynski, and was a lifelong area resident.

He was a 1936 graduate of Struthers High School and a WWII U.S. Army Aircorps veteran. He served in Italy, North Africa and France.

He worked for over 35 years at the Youngstown Sheet and Tube as a Payroll Clerk, retiring in 1980.

Mr. Suszczynski was a member of the St. Nicholas Roman Catholic Church and the Mahoning Sportsmen Association.

Known throughout his life as “Poncho,” he enjoyed swimming, fishing, weight lifting and gardening in his younger years. He also enjoyed working in his yard and completed numerous crossword puzzles.

However, Pete most enjoyed being with his family and loved and cared for them with all his heart. He had a wonderful smile and bright smiling eyes and was always so thankful for the care everyone gave. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

He leaves his beloved wife of 64 years, the former Lucy Santine, whom he married Feb. 24, 1945, at St. Ann Church in Briar Hill, by the Rev. William P. Dunn.

He also leaves two children, his loving daughter, Sandra Suszczynski, with whom he made his home, and who was his special caregiver, and a son, Peter Suszczynski of Beaver Township; one granddaughter, Amy Suszczynski; one sister, Helen (Albert) Donofrio of Boardman; a daughter-in-law, Deena Suszczynski; and his beloved sheltie, Packy.

Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by one sister, Josephine Marapese, and one brother, Edward Suszczynski.

Family and friends will be received Monday from 9 to 10:45 a.m. at the Davidson-Becker Funeral Home in Struthers, where prayers will be said at 10:45 a.m.

A funeral Mass will be celebrated Monday at 11:30 a.m. at St. Nicholas Church.

Interment will follow at St. John the Baptist Cemetery.

The family would like to thank the staff and nurses at MVI Hospice for all of their love and care they gave to Pete. Also a special thanks to Danalynn.

Please visit www.beckerobits.com to send condolences.