Jeanette C. Anderson, 93
COLUMBUS Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday at the Canfield Presbyterian Church for Jeanette C. Anderson, 93, formerly of Skyline Drive in Canfield, who died late Tuesday evening at Mayfair Village in Columbus.
Jeanette was born Aug. 3, 1916, in Jamestown, N.Y., the daughter of the late Arthur W. and Jennie T. (Taylor) Johnson.
She had worked as a bookkeeper, receptionist and secretary for various businesses in the area. Jeanette was the original member of the Cantowners and had belonged to the Bridge Club, Chi Chi Girls and Friendship Club.
Her husband, Raymond E. Anderson Jr., whom she married April 19, 1941, died May 5, 1999.
She is survived by three children, Raymond William (Elizabeth) Anderson of Petaluma, Calif., Terence Lee (Debra) Anderson of Tupelo, Miss. and Douglas Patrick (Kim) Anderson of Plain City. She also leaves three grandchildren, David, Scott and Kent Anderson; and seven great-grandchildren, Kayla, Karin, Aliyah, Carley, Jadelyn, Kalyn and Thomas Knoll Anderson.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Raymond; a brother, Arthur W. Johnson Jr.; and a grandson, Eric Tyler Anderson.
Friends may call from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. on Saturday at the church, prior to the services.
Family and friends may visit www.lanefuneralhomes.com to view this obituary and send condolences.
Linn H. Bartholomew, 62
GIRARD Linn H. Bartholomew, 62, passed away at 7 a.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2009, at home.
Linn was born Aug. 7, 1947, in Greenville, Pa., the son of the late Linn H. and Marjorie (Reinhart) Bartholomew Sr.
Linn was in maintenance with the Burdman Group since 1989. He was also a volunteer Fireman for Johnston Township from 1981 to 1987.
A Veteran of the U.S. Navy and Air Force, Linn was a 1965 graduate of Brookfield High School.
Linn was a member of the Knight Hawks R/C Club and was an avid NASCAR fan and enjoyed flying model airplanes and playing play station with his grandchildren.
Linn is survived by his wife, the former Gayle Smith, whom he married June of 1998; two sons, Steven (Tamera) Bartholomew of Masury and Daniel (Katrina) Bartholomew of Houston; two stepchildren, Carrie (Eric) Cook of Lisbon and Curtis (Becky) Lewis Jr. of Niles; his mother-in-law, Jean (Laase) Bondy of Girard; 16 grandchildren, Corey, Sam, Dominic, Steven, Christian, Daniel, Benjamin, Gabby-Linn, Nathan, Zach, Kavin, Andrew, Katie, Mileena, Reece and Nate; and a friend and mother of his two sons, Marion Abdeljabar of Alabama.
Family will receive friends on Friday, Nov. 6, 2009, from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Lane Funeral Home, Niles Chapel, where a funeral service will take place at 7 p.m.
Inurnment will follow at a later date at Brookfield Township Cemetery.
Family and friends may visit www.lanefuneralhomes.com to view this obituary and send condolences.
Andrew Andy William Blasko, 86
NEW MIDDLETOWN Services will be Saturday at 11 a.m. at the Higgins-Reardon Funeral Home, Poland Chapel for Andrew Andy William Blasko, 86, who went to be with the Lord on Nov. 4, 2009, surrounded by his loved ones.
Andrew was born Jan. 23, 1923 to John and Anna (Dernyar) Blasko in Youngstown.
Andrew was a man of faith who loved his family dearly.
He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Elizabeth (Betty) Cownden Blasko, who went to be with the Lord on Aug. 1, 2004.
He leaves his sons, Andrew John Blasko and Joseph Steven Blasko (Carolyn) of New Middletown; and daughter, Sandra Blasko Moats (Dale) of Melbourne, Fla.; as well as eight grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren on the way.
He leaves his brother, Michael Blasko of New Middletown and was preceded in death by his sister, Mary Metzinger and brother John Blasko. Also leaving behind his wonderful nieces and nephew, whom he so dearly loved and their families.
Andrew was a World War II veteran, who served in the Navy on the U.S.S. Randolph. He was a carpenter for 25 years in the carpenters union in Youngstown. He retired as the H.U.D. Inspector, with the Federal Government for the Cleveland, Canton, Akron and Youngstown area and he was a 32nd Degree Mason.
He will be missed, loved and cherished as he is laid to rest beside his loving wife at the Zion Cemetery in New Middletown.
Friends may call Friday from 5 to 8 p.m. and Saturday morning from 10 to 10:45 a.m. at the Higgins-Reardon Funeral Home, Poland Chapel.
The family has requested that material tributes take the form of donations to the Springfield Township Emergency Medical Technicians in Andrews Memory.
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Julian Paul Bryant, 76
TALLAHASSEE, FLA. Julian Paul Bryant, died peacefully at his home on Saturday, Oct. 31, 2009, at the age of 76, after a courageous battle with cancer.
He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Rosemary; sons, Paul Edward and William Lee; two granddaughters, Rylee and Reese; mother, Ruby; and two sisters, Betty and Barbara.
Mr. Bryant was born in Cairo, Ga. and was a graduate of Bay High School in Panama City, Fla. After graduating, Paul served two years in the U.S. Army. After his honorable discharge, Paul attended Florida State University and graduated in 1958.
Paul then enjoyed a distinguished 34-year career with General Motors, which took the family from Atlanta, Ohio, Michigan, Wisconsin and back to Ohio once again.
The Bryants lived in Salem from 1977 to 1992. In addition to being comptroller of the GM Lordstown complex and later production manager of the van and passenger assembly plants, Paul was an active leader in several community organizations, including Chairman of the Youngstown Area Chamber of Commerce and President of Youngstown Junior Achievement.
In 1992, Paul retired and relocated to Tallahassee with Rosemary.
In addition to being an avid golfer and sports fan, Paul was a devoted husband and father, loyal friend and faithful follower of Christ. As a retiree, he was active with the Thomasville Road Baptist Church, Gideons International and Builders for Christ.
The graveside service was held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 3, at Arlington Memorial Park in Atlanta.
A memorial service will be held at the Thomasville Road Baptist Church in Tallahassee, at 5 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 7.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Gideons International, P.O. Box 161, Tallahassee, FL 32302 or online at www.faithradio.us, Faith Radio, P.O. Box 181000, Tallahassee, FL 32318.
Louis A. GiGi Caldrone, 91
BOARDMAN There will be funeral services at 9 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 7, 2009, at the Rossi Brothers & Lellio Funeral Home in Boardman followed by a 10 a.m. Mass of Christian Burial at the Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church in Youngstown with the Rev. Msgr. Michael J. Cariglio celebrating for Louis A. Caldrone, 91, who passed away early Tuesday morning, Nov. 3.
Louis was born Feb. 25, 1918 in Teivento, Italy, the son of James and Carmel (Desiderio) Caldrone.
He was employed with the city of Youngstown for 27 years, retiring in April of 1981. Louis honorably served his country as a Surgical Technician in the U.S. Army during World War II. He was a member of the church, VFW Post No. 8841 and ITAM Post No. 3, Captain Chas. Marino.
GiGi will always be remembered by his wife, the former Dorothy Bradt, whom he married Dec. 21, 1970; his daughters, Sheila (Glenn) Spack of Salem and Georgia (Bill) Sanor of Oklahoma; his daughter-in-law, Pat Baird of Apollo, Pa.; 11 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; 10 great-great-grandchildren; his two sisters, Philomena Bonace of Boardman and Mary ONeill of Girard; two sisters-in-law, Ida Caldrone of Youngstown and Grace Caldrone of Cleveland; and numerous loving nieces and nephews.
The family would also like to thank Anthony Buffano for all the love, care and attention that he bestowed on GiGi.
Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by his two sons, Harry and David Baird; two sisters, Ann Marzano and Lena Aducci; and two brothers, James and Thomas Caldrone.
Friends may call from 4 to 7pm on Friday, Nov. 6 at the Rossi Brothers and Lellio Funeral Home, 4442 South Ave. in Boardman.
Interment will be at Calvary Cemetery with full military honors.
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Helen G. Childs, 79
AUSTINTOWN Helen G. Childs, 79, passed away early Tuesday afternoon, Nov. 3, 2009, at Hospice House in Poland following a brief illness.
Helen was born Nov. 15, 1929 in Youngstown, a daughter of the late Alf Eugene and Laura Thorsby, and was a lifelong area resident.
She was a graduate of South High School, was a homemaker, and in her younger days worked at the Wilson Football Factory in Ada, Ohio.
Helen will always be remembered for her outgoing personality and infectious laugh. She enjoyed animals and especially enjoyed the time she spent with her family. She will be truly missed by all who knew and loved her.
Helen leaves two daughters, Shelley Wishka of Austintown, and with whom she made her home, and Debbie (Don) Gordon of Austintown; a son, Eddie Childs of Austintown; four grandchildren, Nicole (Mike) Smith, Danielle Wishka, Michelle (Dan) Bestic, and Kimberly Gordon; three great-grandchildren, Colin, Dustin, and Kylie Smith; and a brother, Ted (Gail) Thorsby of Girard.
A daughter, Cheryl Lou Childs, and two brothers, Norm and Bob Thorsby, are deceased.
Family and friends may call on Friday, Nov. 6, from 10 to 11 a.m. at Kinnick Funeral Home, 477 N. Meridian Road in Youngstown, where funeral services will take place at 11 a.m.
Interment will follow at Lake Park Cemetery in Youngstown.
Visit kinnickfuneralhome.com to view this obituary and send on-line and condolences.
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Sanders L. Clark Sr., 85
YOUNGSTOWN Mr. Sanders L. Clark Sr. lovingly known as Mop, passed away Nov. 2, 2009, at St. Elizabeth Health Center.
He was born Sept. 16, 1924 in Youngstown, a son of George and Rebecca Wyche Clark.
He attended East High School and was a veteran of World War II.
Sanders enjoyed watching sports on TV, especially wrestling and football. He was an avid Cleveland Browns Fan. He worked 32 years in the Galvanize Department at Republic Steel (LTV), retiring in 1983. He was a former member of St. Thomas AME Zion Church, where he served as a trustee for many years.
He is survived by his two sons, Sanders (Bertha) Clark Jr. of Youngstown and Ray (Brenda) Clark of Liberty; three grandchildren, Raeonna Denson of Spotsylvania, Va., Rhonda Parker of Canfield and Stephen Clark of Youngstown; four great-grandchildren, Tyrik Denson, Rayshawn Clark, Benjamin Parker Jr. and Ausha Denson; his former wife, Virginia; and a host of family and friends, who will sadly miss him.
He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, George and Fred.
Friends may call Saturday from 9 to 10 a.m. at the L.E. Black, Phillips & Holden Funeral Home.
Funeral services will follow at 10 a.m.
Mary M. Constable, 77
NEW MIDDLETOWN There will be a funeral service at 10 a.m. Saturday at the Fox Funeral Home in Boardman, celebrated by Pastor Russ Adams for Mary M. Constable, 77, who passed away Tuesday morning at Hospice House.
Mary was born July 16, 1932 in Macomb, Ill., a daughter of Guy S. and Florence E. Legere Moore, and has lived in this area since 1952.
She retired from Mahoning Bank, where she worked in the collection department for over 25 years.
Her husband, Robert L. Constable, whom she married Feb. 15,1954, died Dec. 4, 2005.
Mary leaves a son, Steve (Bernadine) Constable of Youngstown; a daughter, Kim (Daniel) Deemer of New Middletown; two brothers, Glen C. (Joann) Moore of Colchester, Ill. and Walter E. (Barbara) Moore of Henry, Ill.; three sisters, Martha R. Drake of Keokuk, Iowa, Emma L. Hellyer of Bushell, Ill. and Joyce A. (Glen) Carter of Lawton, Okla.; four grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.
Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents; three brothers, Harold Moore, Robert Moore and William Moore; and a sister, Kathryn Foust.
Friends may call from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday at the funeral home.
The family wishes to extend a special thank you to the staff at Hospice House and request any memorial donations be sent to Hospice House, 9803 Sharrott Road, Poland, OH 44514.
Family and friends may visit www.foxfuneralhome.org to view this obituary and send condolences.
Nada Ruth Groves Douce, 87
COLUMBUS Nada Ruth Groves Douce, 87, passed away on Oct. 31, 2009.
During her years in public school teaching, she taught home economics in Barnesville and Washington C. H. and then taught vocational food service in Springfield, Canfield, and Marietta, retiring in 1979. After retirement, she resided in Stuart, Fla., for 15 years, moving to Columbus in 2002.
She was preceded in death by parents, Lulu and W. Ellis Groves of Belmont County, and three brothers.
She is survived by children, Louise Douce of Sunbury, Patricia Janes of Charleston, S.C. and Richard Douce (Marian) of Quito, Ecuador; grandchildren, Carl Janes, Mark Janes (Olivia), Karen Janes, Capt. Daniel Douce and Thomas Douce; and great-grandchildren; Kayla Carmen Diaz-Janes and Desmond Ennis Janes.
She graduated with honors from Barnesville High School in 1940 and attended the Ohio State University on a Kroger Scholarship, where she received her B.S. in Home Economics Education in 1944.
She married Lowell Richard Douce in 1946. They lived in post-war Austria for two years before moving to Hillsboro, where she established a private kindergarten.
She was a member of the Worthington Presbyterian Church, Stephens Ministry. She was also active in the United Methodist Women in the communities where she resided, 4-H Club, Future Homemakers of America, Home Economics Extension, Hospital Auxiliary in Hillsboro, and Business and Professional Women.
Memorial services will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 8, 2009, at the Chapel of Worthington Christian Village, 165 Highbluffs Blvd., where the family will receive friends at 1 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in her memory may be sent to the OSU Land-Grant Opportunity Scholarship Fund, 1480 West Lane Ave., Columbus, OH 43221.
Arrangements are being handled by the Rutherford-Corbin Funeral Home, 614-885-4006.
Please visit www.rutherfordfuneralhome.com to send condolences.
George Draia Sr., 90
CLEVELAND, TENN. Services will be held Saturday at 10 a.m. at the Szabo & Sons Funeral Home in Youngstown for George Draia Sr., 90.
He is survived by a son, George (Carole) Draia Jr. of Mohrsville, Pa.; a daughter, Diana (James) Aumack of Collegedale, Tenn.; five grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and a brother, Peter Draia of Youngstown.
George was preceded in death by a brother, John.
Friends may call Friday from 6 to 8 p.m. at Szabo & Sons Funeral Home in Youngstown.
Kathryn E. Garwig, 84
MIDDLEBURG HEIGHTS A memorial service will be at 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 7, at the Thompson Funeral Home, 4221 Market St. in Boardman for Kathryn E. Garwig, 84, formerly of Poland, who died Tuesday afternoon.
Kathryn, known as Betty, was born April 12, 1925 in Youngstown, a daughter of the late John and Kathryn Casey Hunter.
She was a graduate of South High School and a member of the Boardman Methodist Church. Betty was a homemaker, an avid sewer, enjoyed reading, crocheting and her yearly trips to Florida.
Her husband, Glenn W. Garwig Jr., whom she married Sept. 15, 1949, died Jan. 16, 1992.
She leaves a daughter, Patricia L. (Arch) Saxe of Strongsville; a brother, William Hunter of Florida; and two grandchildren, Jennifer (Matt) Larger and Brent Saxe.
Besides her parents and her husband, Betty was preceded in death by a sister, Shirley Lambert.
Friends may call one hour prior to the service on Saturday.
The family requests that material tributes take the form of contributions to the donors favorite charity.
Jerry Glenn Sr., 59
YOUNGSTOWN Services will be on Friday, Nov. 6, 2009, at 10:30 a.m. at the Grace Evangelistic Temple for Mr. Jerry Glenn Sr., 59, who departed this life Nov. 3, at his residence.
Mr. Glenn was born April 8, 1950 in Leeds, Ala., a son of Baker and Sadie Mae Edwards Glenn.
He was an iron worker for 14 years with Iron Metal. He was a member of the Prayer Tower COGIC. He loved football, fishing, cooking, music and loved playing with his grandchildren.
He leaves to cherish his memory, his wife, the former Constance Taylor, whom he married in April of 1982; nine children, Jerome Glenn of Delaware, Ohio, Shanecqua Taylor of Akron, Wilson Taylor, Lakesha Taylor, Jera Taylor, Lathea Taylor, Jerry Glenn Jr., Reva Glenn and Mickele Glenn, all of Youngstown; and three sisters, Loretta (James) Eiland and Linda McCoy of Youngstown and Sheri (Jerry) Ward of Philadelphia; one brother, Johnny Glenn of Mansfield; 23 grandchildren; and a host of relatives and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Robert Glenn; and one sister, Charolette Johnson.
Friends may call Friday from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at the Grace Evangelistic Temple. Funeral services will follow at 10:30 a.m.
Arrangements entrusted to the L.E. Black, Phillips and Holden Funeral Home.
Emile Hawkins, 97
YOUNGSTOWN Services will be at noon on Friday at the Howard-Rhoden Memorial Home for Mr. Emile Hawkins, 97, who passed away on Friday, Oct. 30.
Friends may call from 11 a.m. to noon on Friday at the funeral home.
Debra Ruth Kimbrough-Murphy, 59
YOUNGSTOWN Debra Ruth Kimbrough-Murphy, 59, passed away on Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2009.
Debra was born Nov. 23, 1949 in Youngstown, a daughter of Robert Lee and Jeanet Washington Kimbrough.
She worked at St. Elizabeth Health Center as a Licensed Practical Nurse for 20 years. Her most recent job was at MaximHealth Care as a private duty nurse. She was of Baptist faith.
She leaves to mourn her loss a brother, Tony (Gwen) Edwards of Struthers; a cousin/sister, Marsha Brown of Orange Park, Fla.; and other nephews, nieces and cousins.
Services will be at 10 a.m. Saturday at the Howard-Rhoden Memorial Home, where friends may call one hour prior to sevices.
Evelyn M. Lamancusa
COLUMBUS Evelyn M. Lamancusa, formerly of Vienna, departed this life Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2009, with her family by her side after enduring a brief illness.
She was born in Youngstown on Oct. 3, 1935 to Benjamin and Anne Woomer.
Evelyn lived in Girard, where she worked at Johnny Diamonds Diner, and where she later met her beloved husband, Santino S. Lamancusa, whom she married Nov. 24, 1960. They made their home in Vienna and raised four beautiful children together. Evelyn and Santino were the owner/operators of Lamancusa Tavern in Girard.
Evelyn enjoyed many activities including bowling, bocci, arts and crafts, and crocheting. Most of all she enjoyed coordinating family gatherings and holidays where she was able to cook and spend time with her family. She was cherished by all who knew her.
Evelyn was preceded in death by her wonderful husband, Santino, in 1994; her parents, two sisters, Mary Siefert and Jane Colburn; and brother, Frank Woomer.
She is survived by her four children, Kenneth (Cindy) Lamancusa of Girard, William (Eva) Lamancusa of Howland, Samuel (Sherla) of Vienna and Margaret (Jim) Estes of Reynoldsburg; a sister, Cathy Marsh of London, Ohio, with whom she shared her home; 11 grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
Calling hours will be Friday from 5 to 7 p.m. at the McClurkin Funeral Home in Girard.
A funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday at the funeral home.
Interment will be at Girard City Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made at the funeral home to Mount Carmel Hospital or Madison County Hospital.
Sylvia Grace Miceli, 61
WEATHERSFIELD TOWNSHIP Sylvia Grace Miceli, 61, of 1164 DeForest Road, died at 8:15 a.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 4, 2009, at her residence of extended illness.
Sylvia was born in Warren on Sept. 21, 1948 to Matteo Matthew and Grace (Reigle) Miceli Sr. and lived in this community all her life.
She was a graduate of Niles McKinley High School and a member of the Niles Christian Assembly, where she was involved in the Womens Church Group and enjoyed many of the church functions. She also attended the Christian Life Church in Canfield.
She is survived by a sister, Frances (Peter) Rommel, with whom she made her home; a brother, Matthew Miceli Jr. of Niles; a niece, Jacquelyn (Larry) Tura of Lordstown; two great-nieces, Lauren and Lindsay Tura.
The funeral will be on Saturday, Nov. 7, 2009, at noon at the Holeton-Yuhasz Funeral Home, where family and friends may call from 10 a.m. to noon. The Rev. John Mizgerd and the Rev. Chris Woolley will officiate.
Burial will be at Niles City Cemetery.
Visit www.holetonyuhasz.com to send condolences.
Edith Edie V. Moore, 75
BELLEVUE, NEB. Edith Edie V. Moore, 75, formerly of Wakefield Avenue, died Sunday morning at the Bergan Mercy Hospital in Omaha, Neb.
Edie was born March 3, 1934 in Vienna, a daughter of John and Mary Lewis Billock. She was raised in New Springfield, before moving to Struthers.
Edie was a 1952 graduate of Struthers High School, and a graduate of LaSalle University.
She worked at the Colonial House, The Mansion and the Pink Elephant before going to General Motors, where she retired in 1996 after 25 years.
Edie was a member of Local No. 1112 U.A.W., Renewal Team No. 13, and the Cursillo Team No. 36. She was a member of St. Nicholas Roman Catholic Church, and a former member of St. Joseph Church in Austintown.
She enjoyed sewing and creating different things such as stoma covers and donating them to the Youngstown Hearing and Speech Center in Boardman. She also made 50 fleece blankets and donated them to the Rescue Mission in Youngstown, along with several hundred hours of helping in the kitchen.
She leaves one son, Arthur Jake (Lynda) Moore of Bellevue; three daughters, Marie (Philip) Kubico of Cambridge, Cindy (Greg) Hynes of Lowellville and Deborah Marsh of Struthers; one sister, Mary Lyda of Petersburg; two brothers, Philip Billock of Nome, Alaska and Charles Billock of Poland; 15 grandchildren, Christy (Giap) Neisius, Kelly Pickering, Molly (Andy) Denham, Joseph (Nicole) Moore, Joe (Amanda), Michelle (fiance Sean) Guidos, Jamie, Kelly and Emmett Hynes, Philip Kubico, Victoria Williams, Kenneth Riffle, Ryen Klouse, Scott Hale and Sara (Eric) Smith; and 20 great-grandchildren. She is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.
Besides her parents, Edie was preceded in death by three sisters, Irene Baker, Cecilia Ernst and Rosalie Craig; and eight brothers, Francis, Felix, Raymond, John Jr., Lloyd Bud, Nicholas, Fred and Richard Billock.
Funeral services will be Friday at 10:15 a.m. at the Davidson-Becker Funeral Home in Struthers, and at 11 a.m. at St. Nicholas Roman Catholic Church, with Fr. John Trimbur officiating. Interment will follow at St. John the Baptist Catholic Cemetery in Lowellville.
Family and friends may call today from 4 to 7 p.m. at the funeral home in Struthers, where the Cursillo Bible Vigil will be held at 7 p.m.
Contributions may be made in Edies name to Boys Town, 14100 Crawford St., Boys Town, NE 68010.
Please visit www.beckerobits.com to send condolences.
Alvina L. Palermo, 85
YOUNGSTOWN Funeral services will be held on Saturday at 9:30 a.m. at the Vaschak-Kirila Funeral Home, and at 10 a.m. at St. Christine Catholic Church, for Alvina L. Palermo, 85, who entered into rest early Wednesday at St. Elizabeth Health Center.
Alvina was born March 20, 1924, in Youngstown, the daughter of the late Dominic and Mary (Cavallo) Strollo.
She was a 1942 graduate of East High School, and had been employed at General Fireproofing, and also as a secretary at Strouss Department Store.
She was a member of the church.
Her husband, Albert Palermo, whom she married in 1949, passed away in 1988.
Alvina will be sadly missed by many, including her son, Ronald Palermo of Austintown; her daughter, JoAnn (Nick) Panno of Stow; two brothers, Dante Strollo of Campbell and Lenine (Toni) Strollo of Canfield; and three sisters, Jennie Dundee, Edina Strollo and Vilma Cramer, all of Canfield. She also leaves two grandchildren, Nick and Gina Panno of Stow.
Besides her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by a brother, Dominic Strollo.
Friends may call on Friday from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Vaschak-Kirila Funeral Home.
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
Marlene R. Polito, 75
STRUTHERS Marlene R. Polito, 75, died Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2009, at Hospice House.
Mrs. Polito was born Feb. 14, 1934 in Youngstown to the late Joseph and Rosella Dietz Martin.
She graduated from East High School. She worked for Livingstons, General Fireproofing, A&P Store in the payroll department and also worked for 25 years for Dr. John and Denise DeBartolo York and family.
She was a member of St. Nicholas Church.
She enjoyed pets, and was a member of the All Breed American Kennel Club. Mrs. Polito also bred Siberian Huskies and showed them in many dog shows. She was also a member of the Sons of Italy Club.
She is survived by her three children, James (Elaine) Polito and Rosemarie Cooper, both of Struthers and Donna Jo Clarkson of West Bloomfield, Mich.; and her grandchildren, Shannon Veauthier, Marc Cooper, Miranda Polito, Angelica Polito, Adam Clarkson and Alexandra Clarkson.
In addition to her parents, Marlene was preceded in death by her husband, Dominic J. Polito, whom she married Sept. 19, 1953, and who died Oct. 14, 1998; her son-in-law, Mark Cooper; and two brothers, Walter and Joseph Martin.
Visitation will held Saturday, Nov. 7, 2009, at St. Nicholas Church in Struthers from 9:45 to 10:45 a.m.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m.
Burial will be at Calvary Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Hospice House of North Lima in memory of Mrs. Polito.
Arrangements are being handled by the Kirila Funeral Home Inc. in Struthers.
Please visit www.kirilafh.com to view this obituary.
Kirila Funeral Home Inc.
Dedicated to Caring Since 1952
Mary Lynne Mitt Tovarnak Rosko, 61
POLAND Surrounded by her loved ones, Mary Lynne Mitt Tovarnak Rosko, 61, met with her Lord on Nov. 3, at her residence after an extended battle with breast cancer.
Mary Lynne was born April 25, 1948 in Youngstown, the daughter of the late Andrew J. and Mary Baksa Tovarnak.
In 1966, she graduated from Cardinal Mooney High School, where she was a member of Junior Achievement. As an adult, Mary Lynne completed the Medical Assisting program at the then Mahoning County Vocational School, completing the course with honors. She worked for various area businesses including Budget Rent A Car and Tamco. Most recently, she worked as a receptionist in Dr. Dunchs office.
A Roman Catholic, Mary Lynne was a member of St. Charles Church in Boardman and in the 1950s, attended what was then the new grade school there. She was also a member of the St. Charles Small Christian Community Prayer Group.
She leaves behind to cherish her memory, her beloved companion, Garry Grossen, with whom she shared her home for the past 19 years and who helped care for her throughout her illness; her loving daughter, Sharri Lynne (Dave) Smith, who also helped care for her during her illness; her much loved granddaughters, Aubrey Lynne and Karley Marie, who were the light of her life; her brother, Robert A. (Dolores) Tovarnak of Coraopolis, Pa., a retired U.S. Airways pilot; her best friend of more than 53 years, Dianne Bulatko, who will miss her deeply; and her cousin, Stephanie Stearns, with whom she shared their in joke that they were identical cousins who did everything the same.
Mary Lynne also leaves behind her much loved pets, Buffy, her dog and her cat, Beebe. She had a deep fondness for all animals and was committed to rescuing them from cruelty. She kept and rode horses for more than 30 years, receiving her first horse, Sky Rocket, on her 10th birthday.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated for Mary Lynne at 10 a.m. Saturday at St. Charles Church, where visitation will take place from 9 to 10 a.m. prior to the Mass.
Friends may also call Friday from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Kubina-Yuhasz Funeral Home, 5925 Market St. in Boardman.
Mary Lynne asked that her thanks be extended to all who prayed and took care of her throughout her illness. They know who they are and will be richly rewarded by God the Father. The family also wishes to thank Hospice of the Valley for the wonderful care they gave to Mary Lynne.
In lieu of flowers, Mary Lynne asked that donations be made in her name to either the Rescue Mission of Mahoning Valley, 962 Martin Luther King Blvd., P.O. Box 2980, Youngstown, OH 44501-0298 or to your favorite animal charity.
Interment will take place at St. Johns Cemetery.
Please visit kubinayuhasz@sbcglobal.net to send condolences.
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Ralph J. Ruggiero
GIRARD Ralph J Ruggiero after a brief illness, passed away Tuesday Nov. 3, 2009 at Forum Health Northside Medical Center.
Ralph was born Feb. 19, 1930 to Sam and Julia Messuri Ruggiero
He was a graduate of Girard High School in 1948, Ralph worked for U. S. Steel in the labor gang and left the mill to work for the Fry Paving Company for three years and worked part time for the Girard Street Department. Ralph worked part time for the Girard Police as a dispatcher on the midnight shift and for the U.S. Postal Service.
In 1957, Ralph was appointed to the Girard Fire Department as well as working for Santisi Produce Company. Ralph was promoted from engineer to the rank of Captain. While on the fire department, Ralph was instrumental in organizing and starting the ambulance service at the Fire Department in 1967 with the help of then Mayor Phillip Cretella and Safety Director Ernie Meszaros.
Ralphs proudest moments on the Fire Department were saving two people from a burning building and saving the life of a toddler, Darlene Oleska by performing mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. Ralph received commendations from the Ohio State Senate for his life saving efforts. Ralphs name was presented to the United States Congress and was written in the Congressional Record for his honesty and integrity for returning $65,000, which he found in the Dollar Bank parking lot to the Wells Fargo Company.
Ralph became the Vice President of University Investments in Youngstown in 1969 and helped in the construction of 87 apartments on Ohio, Madison and Pennsylvania for off campus housing at Youngstown State.
Ralph continued to serve as a Captain for the fire department until 1987 when Mayor Ken Woodford asked him to serve as the Service Director for the City. Ralph accepted the position and took the challenge of instituting many improvements to the citys infrastructure. He constructed three water tanks, which provided more than 25,000 gallons of purified water for the residents of Girard. He purchased the Girard Lakes and installed new pumps for the Tibbetts Wick Station for a high-pressure water system. Ralph purchased new vehicles and equipment for the Street Department to provide a better service to the city. Many new repairs at the time were made to the wastewater treatment plant this project also included new sewer lines throughout the city.
He was instrumental in providing the Police Department and the Girard Municipal Court with a new building in addition to purchasing new police cruisers and equipment for the department. Ralph also purchased new equipment for the fire department as well as a new ambulance and fire truck.
Ralph saw the need for repairs and upgrades for the Girard City Cemetery Mausoleum. He installed unbreakable stained glass for the mausoleum, a new roof and new mowers to maintain the cemetery grounds.
Ralph reconstructed Liberty Street and re-paved over 35 miles of street surfaces in the city. He also widened state Route 422 to 48 feet meeting state requirements. Ralph was involved in many more projects for the city, too numerous to mention.
When Mayor Ken Woodford passed away, Ralph was asked by interim Mayor Joe Christopher to remain in the Directors position, which he did. In 1992, newly elected Mayor Sonny Schuyler asked Ralph to remain on as Director, which he did until 2000. Mayor James Melfi asked Ralph to stay until the Girard Justice Center was completed but he decided at that time after more than 40 years of dedicated service to the City of Girard to retire. Ralph was the only person to serve as Service Director under four mayors.
Ralphs wife, the former Marian Elizabeth Fry, passed away in August of 1996.
Ralph leaves behind a son, David and wife Janice of Liberty; and his daughter, Dian Backoff and husband Jeff ; daughter, Estee of Wellington, Fla.
Ralph was fortunate to have found a loving companion in Kathy O'Leary, his soul mate who remained at his side laughing with Ralph and caring for him until his passing. He also leaves his sister-in-law, Ursula Ruggiero of Niles. A stepsister, Gerry Muckridge (Jack) and a stepbrother, Eugene (Shirley) Gonze of McDonald; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.
Besides his parents, Ralph was preceded in death by his son, Chris; his sisters, Phyllis (Rocky) Genaro and Marie Hungerford (John); his brother, Frank; his stepfather, Victor Gonze; and stepbrother, Victor Jr. of Cleveland.
Calling hours will be at the McClurkin Funeral Home in Girard on Friday from 4 to 8 pm.
A Christian Mass will be held at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday at St. Rose Church with prayers at 9 a.m. at the funeral home.
Internment at the Girard City Cemetery, there will be no graveside service.
Ralph was a member of the Knights of Columbus, The International Association of Firefighters, The Teamsters Local 377, member of the Girard Booster, the Girard Historical Society, Friends of the Girard Free Library and a life long member of Saint Rose Church of Girard.
Ralph dedicated his life to the service of his community, the town that he loved, and the place that he will forever call home. He will be missed by many, those who knew him were lucky those that he loved were blessed. Captain Ralph J. Ruggiero has been called to his final station assignment and will take his rightful place as the senior turn commander.
Donations may be made is his name to St. Judes Children Hospital or the Youngstown Rescue Mission.
Greater has no man than this that a man lay down his life for a friend.
Shirley Lane Wilson, 62
STRUTHERS Shirley Lane Wilson, 62, died Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2009, at the Hospice House.
She was born Feb. 22, 1947 in Pennsylvania to the late Samuel Roy and Mary Linda Miller Clark.
She attended the Bethel Friends Church in Poland.
Shirley enjoyed baking, cooking, crafts and decorating at the holidays. Shirley loved her family, friends and her dog, Petie.
She is survived by her children, Linda (Thomas) Hodder in Struthers, James Harvey (Marion) Wilson in Nurburg, Germany and Connie Sue (David) Orum in Sarasota, Fla.; two sisters, Mary Bolen in Poland and Dolores Johnson in Washington; four grandchildren, Jasmine and Jadea Hodder and David James and Delaney Sue Orum.
She was preceded in death by her husband, James Carl Wilson, whom she married Oct. 7, 1967, and he died Oct. 5, 2003; three brothers, Robert, William and Gerald Clark; and a sister, Zella Roop.
Visitation will be on Saturday, Nov. 7, 2009, from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Kirila Funeral Home Inc., 258 Poland Ave. in Struthers. Services will follow the visitation at 7 p.m. at the funeral home.
Please visit www.kirilafh.com to view this obituary.
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