All Obituaries

Karen Ann Bivens passed away surrounded by loved ones on August 13, 2022, at the age of 77, or as she said, "seventy-f**king-seven". As the oldest of nine siblings, she was known for her caring nature and huge heart. She was a beloved sister, daughter, mother, grandmother, partner, and friend who brought exuberance and positivity to all who knew her. Karen lived life on her own terms and loved fast cars, playing the drums in a classic rock band, taking in stray cats, and making art. She had...

Sharon, 60, of Copley, Ohio passed peacefully on August 10, 2022. She grew up in Boston Township, now the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, and attended Woodridge High School, class of '81. Sharon is survived by her husband of 40 years, John, twin sons Matthew (Kendra) and Andrew (Jennifer), sister Cathleen Kornuta (Paul), grandsons Zachary and Evan, and stepmother Maggie Boodey. Sharon was preceded in death by her father Carl Boodey, mother Shirley, and grandson Joshua Knafel. Sharon...

Nancy Lee Costill, 70, passed away peacefully on August 11, 2022 with her dog Lacey by her side. Nancy was born on April 21, 1952 to Robert and Mildred Costill. She graduated from Buchtel High School and earned a degree in education from the University of Akron. Nancy taught school for several years and then took a job with the U.S. Postal Service where she worked until retirement. Nancy enjoyed traveling, which she did extensively with her grandparents and Aunt Marge, from an early age....

Miss Nancy Sauer, age 81, passed away on August 5, 2022 at the Justin T. Rogers Hospice Care Center. Nancy was born in Pittsburgh, PA to the late William and Pearl Sauer. Along with her parents, Nancy was preceded in death by a sister, Marilou Sauer. A graduate of the University of Akron, Nancy pursued a 38-year career as an elementary school teacher, educating thousands of students in the Ellett (Hatton) and Manchester systems. Passionate about teaching, she continued as a reading...

Rob Bowersox, age 66, passed away July 26, 2022 after a courageous fight with leukemia. He was born in 1956 and spent his younger life in Copley and graduated from Copley High School. He retired from Roadway after 30+ years as a semi-truck driver. He enjoyed golfing, finally getting his hole-in-one. Rob is preceded in death by father, Richard and brothers, Rick and Jeff. He is survived by his wife, Lynette; mother, Carole; daughter, Sarah (Ryan) Gosorn; son, Justin; nephew, Michael; four...

Stephen Grunninger found peace, Friday, July 22, 2022, following his parents, six siblings, (Joseph John, Catherine Marie, Mary Agnese, John Joseph, George Joseph and Teresa Mary), wife Marjory Arlene Cooper-Grunninger and daughter-in-law Karen Margaret Hughes-Grunninger to heaven's gate. Stephen was born May 24, 1924 in Akron, Ohio, the youngest child of János "John Joseph" Grunninger and Rosa Terézia "Theresa" Leinmeister. The child of immigrants, he...

Mr. Timothy Daniel Flossie, age 73, passed away on July 18, 2022, at his home, surrounded by his loving family. Timothy was born in Akron, Ohio to the late Daniel "Babe" and Mary Flossie. Tim married the love of his life, former Mary Jean "Jeannie" Smith on December 2, 1972, and she survives. Timothy is also survived by his children, Jill (Albert) Ammerman and Joe Flossie; grandchildren, Hillarie, Olivia, Jacob, Albert V, Ashley, Allison; great grandchildren, Aubreigh & Emma; brothers, Ben...

On 15 February 1938, Marcia Ann (Varga) Zarembka entered this world in South Bend, Indiana to her parents, Anna Marie (Niemier) Varga and Louis Paul Varga, who could not have loved her more. Two years later her sister Arlene (Varga) Martin completed the Varga family. In 1955 Marcia met the love of her life, Robert Leonard Zarembka. They married on 3 October 1959 and spent over 65 amazing years dedicated to each other. Throughout her life, Marcia's generous spirit and kindness was...

Gene Comstock Garn, born on January 9, 1920, in Toledo, Ohio, died on June 30, 2022 at Ohio Living Rockynol Assisted Living Center in Akron, Ohio. She was preceded in death by her parents, Ralph R. Comstock and Florence L. Comstock, and her husband of 66 years, Robert A. Garn. Mrs. Garn was a graduate of Devilbiss High School in Toledo, Ohio, and attended Ohio University where she was a member of Chi Omega Fraternity, majored in music, and met Mr. Garn. They lived for many years in...

VICKEY RENEE TODD (CRAMER) Vickey Todd, 61, Daughter of Howard and Sharon Cramer of Akron, Ohio, passed away June 26, 2022. She was born June 7-1961 in Akron, Ohio. Graduated from Coventry High School, Class of 1979. Vickey, was truly the life of the party, her spunky, spitfire, personality, and wit, always kept her family and friends laughing, and full of surprise. Her endless energy, and spark, which no one could ever match, gave her the title many times as the “energizer...

Mrs. Bonnie Griffin, age 85, passed away on June 23, 2022. She was born in Akron, Ohio to the late Claire and Bernice Battels. Bonnie married John Vincent Griffin and he preceded her in death on November 19, 2006. Bonnie was also preceded in death by her brother Eugene (Pat) Battels and granddaughter Isabel Simone Foerster and her many animal friends she's rescued over the years. Bonnie is survived by her daughter, LouAnn (Justin) Foerster; grandchildren, Madelyn and Alexander; nephew...

Robert Raymond Moore died peacefully in his sleep at the age of 77 on June 22, 2022. Bob was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and friend. Bob was born and raised in Akron, Ohio to Robert E. and Marie Moore. He was a graduate of Archbishop Hoban High School, Wheeling Jesuit College, and the University of Akron where he earned his CPA and MBA. Bob was married to his wife Frances Gradisar Moore for 52 years, and was the loving father to four daughters Melissa, Gretchen, Megan (George...

Grace (GG) Hervert Whaley (Williams), age 94, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on June 22, 2022 after a long battle with cancer. She was born in Chardon, Ohio to the late Merwin and Florence Williams. Along with her parents, she was preceded in death by loving husbands, Clyde Whaley and Richard Hervert, her brother Keith Williams, and her daughter in law Leslie Hervert. Loving mother to Richard (Dawn) Hervert, Margaret Jenkins, Steven (Laura) Hervert, Stanley Hervert, Robyn...

Kathleen C. (Jacobs) Harvey March 31, 1946-June 18th, 2022 (76 years old) Kathleen "Kathi" C. Harvey, age 76, of Akron, Ohio passed away on Saturday, June 18th after a long and courageous battle with pneumonia. She was born in Akron, Ohio to parents Aileen and John Jacobs. She attended St. Sebastian grade school and graduated from Buchtel High School in 1964. She attended The University of Akron where she studied to become an educator. Kathi taught second grade at St Sebastian School in...

Clifford (“Cliff”) James Bennett left this earthly world to join God’s choir on June 16th, 2022 at the age of 72.  Cliff was born in Detroit, MI, and moved to Nashville, TN at 6 months of age where he was raised by his loving parents Hobert & Lucille Bennett.  Cliff graduated from East Nashville High School in 1968 and attended college at The University of Tennessee-Nashville and Middle Tennessee State University.  He worked for 30 years at Vought...

Harriet Marie Harrison (Pursell), age 79, passed away peacefully on June 12, 2022 with her loving husband by her side. She was born on May 9, 1943 in Akron, Ohio to the late Harry and Nina Marie (Russell) Pursell. Loving wife of Charles Harrison and caring mother to Scott (Sue) Harrison and Jeffrey (Pamela) Harrison. She was "Memaw" to her three grandchildren, Emily, Ty and Ryan. Harriet graduated from Kenmore High School in 1961. She married the love of her life, Charlie, on September 8,...

Scott Evan Evans, 69, headed for the next gig on June 11, 2022. He was born in Kalamazoo, Michigan to the late Jack and Jackie Evans. He and his late brother, Kevin started playing guitar when Jackie brought one home from her job at the Gibson guitar factory. He played in bands across the country, including Kalamazoo, MI; Collinsville, IL; Boulder, CO; Los Angeles, CA; Nashville, TN; and Sedona, AZ before moving to Akron. Scott was a devoted father to son, Oliver and through him was involved...

Michael D. Brown, 62, was taken from us unexpectedly on June 3, 2022. Mike was born in 1960 to parents Rob and Mary. The oldest of four siblings, he was raised in Akron and graduated from East High School in 1978. Mike went on to earn both his Bachelors and Masters in accounting from the University of Akron. After obtaining his CPA, he went into practice and quickly became partner at Volpe Brown and Company LLC. Trusted and respected by his clients, he held the position for over 35...

Mrs. Thelma (Coon) Keenan Appel, age 88, passed away on June 1, 2022. She was born in Akron, Ohio to the late Elmer and Helen Coon. Thelma married her first husband Paul S. Keenan in 1972 and remained married until his death in 1991. Although she never expected to remarry, she met her second husband George Appel at a POW event and married him in 2006. They were married for 14 years until his death in 2021 following a car accident. Along with her parents and husbands, Thelma was also...

Roberta Jean "Bobbi" Turley, 80, passed away peacefully on May 31,2022 at her home in Akron, Ohio after a long and full life. She was a dedicated sister, mother, and grandmother, is loved greatly, and will be missed terribly. Bobbi was born in Dunbar, PA to the late Robert and Emma Schwenning. They later moved to Akron, OH spending most of her life there. She was preceded in death by her sisters Sandy Evans, Joyce Speegle, and Sharon Parker; and brother Robert W. Schwenning. She is...

Lori L. Harshbarger (Zook), 60, passed away Tuesday May 31, 2022. Preceded in death by husband, Stephen D. Harshbarger; father, Howard Zook Sr. and mother, Viola Zook (Hughes). Lori is survived by daughter and son-in-law, Crystal (Billy) Neal; daughter and son-in-law, Jennifer (Jory) Pratt; granddaughters, Sativa'Marie, Nataly and Rozlyn Neal; numerous other relatives and friends. Lori was extremely loved and will be highly missed

Mary Ann Benninger passed away on May 29, 2022. Beloved sister and aunt, she is survived by her siblings Joan (Ed) Markowski, Louise (Vince) Scalera, John (Cathy) Benninger, and Diane (Steve) Richards. Mary Ann also leaves behind her ten beloved nieces and nephews as well and many great nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Evelyn and Martin Benninger, and brother and sister in law Paul and Marie Benninger, and nephews Michael Markowski and David Benninger. Mary Ann...

Mr. Eric C. Bodner, age 67, passed away on May 29, 2022. He was born on August 25, 1954 in Akron, Ohio to the late Stephen and Mary Bodner. Eric married Anita Bodner of Copley, Ohio on November 14, 2014, and she survives. Eric retired from Lockheed Martin Corporation after 35 years. He enjoyed his hobbies of raising chickens and growing vegetables. Eric especially enjoyed being outdoors. A visitation for family and friends will be held on Friday, June 3, 2022 from 12 to 2 P.M. at the...

Jennifer "Jen" Durbin (Jansen), 47, passed away into the Lord's loving arms on May 13, 2022. She was born on February 26, 1975, in Akron, OH. Jen was a lifelong resident of the area and will be missed by her family, friends, and those whose life she touched. Jen was a spiritual warrior during her battle with cancer. Jen's journey to follow God's plan led her to volunteer at Embrace Clinic as an advocate, minister in Unbound Sessions and a vital part of CHRP Women's...

Marcia L. Mazak., 89, died peacefully at Ohio Living Rockynol in Akron on May 11, 2022. Mrs. Mazak was born on June 11, 1932 in Akron, OH to Mark and Rebecca Tenney. Upon her graduation from Buchtel High School (Akron, OH), she attended the University of Akron and met her future husband, Ed. Marcia was a mixed media artist whose career spanned five decades. She studied painting and drawing with Charles Shannon of Montgomery, AL, painting with both Brack Walker of Auburn University, and Ou...

Margaret "Marge" Nina Labbe, 80, beloved wife, mother, and grandmother, passed away on May 8, 2022. Marge entered this world on March 19, 1942, in Cleveland, OH, born to Mathias and Mildred Klekker. She is survived by her husband of 50 years, Robert P. Labbe; sons, Matt (Jennifer) Labbe, and Jonathan (Debrah) Labbe; and grandchildren Jacob, Owen, Dylan, Raena and Quinn. Marge lived a life of service beginning as a sister of the Humility of Mary where she started teaching first grade....

Charles Calvin Smith, Jr., lifelong resident of Akron, Ohio passed away peacefully on May 8, 2022 at the age of 65. He was born on February 1, 1957 to the late Charles C. Smith, Sr. and Joanne (Greathouse) Smith. Charles is survived by his beloved son, Aaron Charles Smith (Martina) and grandson, Grayson Smith; step-daughter Angela (Loren) Taylor; sister, Yvonne (James) Goins; brothers, Daniel S. Smith, Kevin L. (Roxana) Smith and Spencer A. Smith. Charles has one grandson, two...

Thomas Howard Gosorn January 12, 1939 - May 5, 2022 Thomas Gosorn, 83 of Akron passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, May 5 surrounded by his family. He battled Alzheimer's dementia for many years. Tom was preceded in death by his wife of 55 years, JoAnn, parents Ralph W. and Ida (Lukosavich) Gosorn as well as the loving family dog, Shelby. He is survived by sons, Ralph (Joy) Gosorn of Cuyahoga Falls and Thomas B. Gosorn of Green, daughters Kim (Doug) Heaton of Cleveland TN and...

Forever in our Hearts Liza Michelle Kinney, age 48, passed away on May 4, 2022 surrounded by her family. She was born to Buddy John and Justine Kinney on September 30, 1973 in Barberton, Ohio. Michelle is survived by her daughter, parents, siblings, nephews, niece, and many aunts, uncles, and cousins that all love her dearly. She had a great adoration for art, music, reading, gardening, and being an attentive mother. Her favorite way to spend time was with her daughter and animals she...

James R. Warters 92, of Copley passed away May 1, 2022. He was born July 18, 1929 in Middletown, NY to Walter & Ethel.  Jim grew up in New Jersey, New York state and Pennsylvania before joining the Marines in 1946-48. After marrying Joan in 1956, they raised 3 children in Copley. He worked for Goodyear and Loral Wheel & Brake in Akron for 30 plus years as an Aeronautical engineer.  Jim was very active in Boy Scouts & served as a Scoutmaster among other positions. He...

Jack McWhorter, age 71 of Akron, passed away peacefully on May 1, 2022 after a brief illness. Jack was born on September 27, 1950, in Canton, Ohio to the late James and Dorothy McWhorter. He and his family have lived in Akron for 45 years.  Jack was a Professor of Art at Kent State University at Stark for 32 years and loved teaching. But his passion was painting. He knew at a young age that he wanted to be an artist, and pursued his craft throughout his life with dedication and...

William “Bill” Joseph Zierke was an incredible husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. He entered eternal rest on Tuesday, April 26th, 2022, in Indianapolis, Indiana. Bill was born to his parents, William and Virginia (Schifeling) Zierke on November 4, 1946, in Peoria, Illinois. He was an athlete from Richwood High School and went on to earn a degree from Bradley University. There, Bill began dating the love of his life, Sherill “Sherry” Wilson, and...

Elizabeth (Betty) J. Schorr (Kraker) met her Heavenly Father on April 20, 2022 at the age of 86.  She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, sister, and friend. Born to Elizabeth Dettling and Joseph Kraker on July 13, 1935, Betty was a life resident of Akron, Ohio. Betty attended St Sebastian and St Vincent School where she made life-long friends and met her husband, Donald. Betty was truly the definition of selfless. She always lent an ear when someone was...

Michele G. Comunale, 72 passed away April 18, 2022. Born in Akron on June 7, 1949 to Frank and Gertrude Comunale. She graduated from Firestone High School in 1967 and Marquette University with a degree in Theology. Michele will be remembered for her strong, dedicated personality, sharp wit, intelligence, problem solving, and most of all, her boundless love for her family and friends. Professionally, she was an integral part of S.A Comunale Co. and worked closely with her brothers and...

Irene Cramer (nee Demetroff) 93, passed away on April 14, 2022 at The Village of St. Edward in Fairlawn while in hospice care. Irene was born in Henlawson, West Virginia, where she lived for 17 years, then moved to Barberton with her family. She lived in Wadsworth for 43 years, previously residing in Doylestown. Irene was married to her husband, Howard, for 39 wonderful years. She worked as a secretary, a stay-at-home mother and as a realtor. She was a member of St. Andrew's Episcopal...

James P Harig, 93, went home to join the Lord on April 13, 2022. He was born in Akron, OH on June 4, 1928. Jim was the son of late August and Mary Harig. He is preceded in death by his beloved wife of 70 years, Catherine, and his oldest daughter Mary. Jim is survived by his children: James Jr, Teresa Wile, Janice Varca (Jimmy), Keith (Kathy), Kevin (Vicki), Joe (Cassie), and son-in-law Rich Storey. He is a proud grandfather to 17 grandchildren and seven great...

On Monday, April 11, 2022, Paul Zsigrai, beloved brother of five siblings passed away at the age of 52. Paul was born on May 19, in Cleveland Ohio to William and Eleanor Zsigrai and grew up in Garfield Heights Ohio. Paul had a deep abiding passion for the great outdoors, whether it be canoeing down a river with his best friends or hunting or fishing. He was also an avid music lover, especially rock, and known to pick up a guitar and play. He will be remembered for his wonderful smile and...

Bonnie L. McCain, of Akron Ohio, passed away April 8, 2022. Born to Edward and Ruth (Luff) McCain on November 21,1943, she was the second of ten children. Bonnie attended St. Patrick's Catholic grade school. She invested 30 years at Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company until her retirement in 2008. Bonnie enjoyed bowling, collecting miniatures and volunteering for various ministries at her church. She was very dedicated to the Visitation of Mary, Annunciation Catholic Church where she spent...

Jim Fenwick, 83, of Akron, passed away peacefully on Friday, April 8, 2022, just in time to catch the last two rounds of the Masters Golf Tournament with a view from heaven! Jim was a lifelong resident of Akron. He attended St. Sebastian Grade School and St. Vincent High School where he made many lifelong friends. After high school Jim attended Kent State University and served in the U.S. Army Reserve. For most of his adult life, Jim made his living in the car business. He began his career...

Theodore R. Long passed away on April 8, 2022 after a brief illness at The Village of St. Edward at the age of 96. Just imagine the people he met, the places he saw and the experiences he had. Born August 7, 1925 to the late John and Dorothy Long, he spent his entire life in Akron and Cuyahoga Falls. Upon graduation from Buchtel High School, he enlisted in the United States Marines. During World War II he participated in the Mariana Islands Campaign and earned a Purple Heart for injuries...

James Howard Mac Naughton passed away peacefully at Western Reserve Hospital on April 7, 2022, at the age of 73. He was born in Warren, Ohio on February 13, 1949, to the late John Mac Naughton and LaVelma Moyer. Along with his parents, James was preceded in death by his stepfather, Donald James. He is survived by his daughters, Heather (Michael) Otto and Rachel (Andrew O'Kane) Mac Naughton; ex-spouse Cheryl Kalmanek Antognoli; brothers John (Shirley) Mac Naughton, Thomas (Shellane) James,...

Amy Jo Ruggles (January 9, 1961 - April 5, 2022) passed away unexpectedly. Amy was preceded in death by her mother and father, Jessie and Frank Ruggles and several aunts and uncles including her Aunt Connie Pisciottta to whom she was especially close. She is survived by her dear Aunt Lois Silvanik, and her cousin and Aunt Lois's son, Rev. Bob Silvanik (Amy) who baptized Amy and who will lead her memorial service. Amy also leaves behind her cousin Grace Pisciotta Morris (John) and their...

Phyllis K. Miller, age 89 of Copley passed away on April 4, 2022. She was born in Fruitport, Michigan to the late Leslie and Bessie Kline. Phyllis married Harold Wayne Miller and he preceded her in death on August 3, 2008. Phyllis was also preceded in death by a sister-in-law, Ruby Miller; niece, Michelle Kline; nephew, Mike Kline; and a great niece, Olivia Skaggs. She is survived by her daughter, Christina (Mark Lansell) Miller; a brother, Ron Kline; brother-in-law, David Miller; nieces,...

Dora Lee (Johnson) Evans January 31, 1943 ~ April 2, 2022 (age 79) Dora Lee Evans, 79, passed away peacefully in her sleep on the evening of April 2, 2022. Dora was born in Rivesville, West Virginia, as Dora Mae Johnson, to James and Jeanette Johnson. The Johnson family was large and busy, with seven children in total. Dora's father worked in the Coal Mines which led to him passing of Black Lung at only 51 years of age. Her mother, Jeannette, maintained the household with the help of her...

John David Crane, age 72, passed away on March 30, 2022. His Christian faith was very important to him and he volunteered regularly at the church. John loved classic cars and his family and friends were very dear to him. John was always willing to help anyone in need. He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Dixie; his son, David (Jessica) Crane; daughter Kelly Crane; grandchildren, Cody, Courtney, Taylor, Joey, and Brooklynn. Memorial service will be Monday April 11 at 11:00am at the...

Edward "Ed" "Eddie" Earl Foxworth Devoted Husband, Brother, Father, Grandfather, and Uncle Edward Earl Foxworth, 69, died Tuesday March 29, 2022, at his Akron home with his family by his side. Ed lost a long battle with lung cancer. Ed was born July 24, 1952, in New Orleans, LA., to Louise and James Edward Foxworth. Him and his family moved to Detroit, MI in the 1960s. Ed went to school for auto body and collision repair. Ed met his first wife and had his only son,...

Stephen R. Ringer, 77 of Copley passed away Monday, March 28, 2022 at his home surrounded by his family. He was born in Toledo, OH to the late Ralph and Neva Ringer. A graduate of Ohio University with a B.S. degree in business, his career centered on accounting for several companies. After college, Steve enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corp, where he went into Officer Training and ultimately was commissioned to a rank of Captain. He served his country in Vietnam and was awarded several honors...

Nancy Jane Watrous, age 85, born on September 10, 1946 entered into Eternal Life on March 27, 2022. She graduated from Kent State University. She was actively involved with her church, Woodland United Methodist Church and her beloved church family. Nancy loved volunteering for animal shelters, had an enormous love for animals and was an avid reader. She is survived by, Steven D. Jarrett (nephew); Steena Rickner (cousin), Shirley and Willey Cunningham, Noah, Justin, Heather, Kaden (adopted),...

Teresa (Terry) Considine Williams, of Hudson, youngest of the 11 children born to Edward J. and Catherine C. Considine of Akron, died March 26, 2022. Preceding her in death, her newspaperman husband, William Brian Williams; their daughter, the remarkable Katy Considine Williams; brothers: James, Edward, Robert, Richard, William, Howard, and Paul and sisters: Mary Reymann, Kathleen Ostroski, and Jeannette McCormick. She is survived by many nieces and nephews. Terry began her journalism...

Thomas McDonald, beloved husband of the late Mary Susan (Shaul) McDonald and devoted father, passed away peacefully in Akron on March 23rd. Born in Cedar Rapids, Iowa to Cecilia (Becker) McDonald and Edward McDonald, Tom moved to Akron, Ohio in 1950 and graduated from St. Vincent High School in 1954 and John Carroll University in 1958. After a career as a salesman for Gold Crown, he opened a Hallmark store in Columbus, Ohio, where he lived with his wife, Susan, after they got married. Tom...