All Obituaries

Beverly Thomas, 64, passed away Wednesday, June 9, 2021. No services are scheduled at this time.

"Big Mike," age 39, passed away peacefully in his sleep on June 7, 2021. A lifelong resident of Akron, he graduated from St. Vincent-St. Mary High School in 2000. He was a gentle giant, loved by all, with an infectious laugh and smile. He had a huge heart and gave the best hugs ever. He was artistically talented, enjoying painting, carving, and playing guitar. He was an excellent cook, and friends and family looked forward to his culinary creations. He was a wonderful father, son,...

Michael Lynn McNeal - husband, father, grandfather, teacher and friend - passed into his next adventure just before the sun rose on June 6, 2021. The middle son of Donald H. and Beatrice A. McNeal, Mike was born on the 7th of July in 1941 in Chillicothe, Ohio. In addition to his parents, Mike was preceded in death by brother, Donald L. McNeal, brother-in-law, William C. Ray Jr., and three dearly-loved baby grandsons. Mike is survived by his wife, Lynne Ellen (Ray) and their four children,...

Eleanor R. Pavick, 74, passed away Sunday June 6, 2021, due to a sudden rupture of a cerebral aneurysm. In 1947, Eleanor's family moved from Jamestown, NY to Akron, OH where Eleanor was born. Eleanor was always proud of her "100%" Swedish heritage. She graduated from Cuyahoga Falls High School in 1965 and remained close with many of her classmates including planning of school reunions. She was a longtime member of Bethany Lutheran Church and was employed for over 40 years by...

Allan Thomas "Bubba" passed away unexpectedly June 6, 2021 at the age of 47 Allan is predeceased by his parents Margaret Scott and Kerry Brillhart. He is survived by parents Tiny and Kathy Thomas, children Amber and Nick, his dog buddy and 3 brothers. He was born December 5, 1973. He had a drywall business for many years. Allan was loved and will be missed by his family and some great life long friends. A celebration of his life will be made.

Brian S. Hummel, of Mogadore, OH, unexpectedly passed away on June 3, 2021 at the age of 48. Brian was born in Akron, OH on June 14, 1972 to parents Robert and Judith Hummel. He graduated from Mogadore High School in 1991. Brian married Darcina (McKinney) Hummel on October 9, 1999. They were married 21 years. Together they raised 3 wonderful children, Logan, Travis, and Makayla, who he loved dearly. Brian proudly worked as an equipment technician for Sheetz, Inc for the last 10 years. Brian...

Ronald D. Platten of Copley Ohio passed away on June 3, 2021. Ronald is the son of Ronald and June Platten and is survived by his wife Sandi, son Ronnie, brother Wayne, sister Robin, father-in-law Frank, nephew Wayne (Mackenzie and Logan), brother-in-law Steve (Marla), brother-in-law Frank, sister-in-law Theresa (Ken), brother-in-law Joe (Sue), sister-in-law Patty, sister-in-law Mary, and sister-in-law Danielle (Rich). He has around 25 nieces and nephews and over 30 great nieces and nephews....

Cecil "Gene" Thomas, 87, passed away peacefully, May 31, 2021. He was born in Belborn, West Virginia to Stanley and Pearl Thomas on July 16, 1933. He was one of 10 siblings. He retired from PVS Chemical in Copley, Ohio. Gene loved "old" country music, sang and played guitar in several bands. Preceded in death by wife, Lorene and daughter, Regina Walsh; he is survived by children, Debbie Wrixen, Sandy (Mike) Bittner, Phyllis (Joe) Osborne, Phil (Ola) Jackson; ex-wife,...

Bobby Daiger, 61, of Akron, left this world peacefully surrounded by his immediate family on May 31, 2021. Born in Dennison, OH on October 25, 1959, Bobby was a machinist, a welder and a Jack of all Trades kind of man. He enjoyed many things in life such as cooking, grilling, fishing, music, movies and margaritas. He also enjoyed playing Keno, scratch offs and the occasional trip to the Casino. Bobby loved social gatherings with friends and family and was well known for his ornery sense of...

In Loving Memory of Barbara Ellen Pyatt (Goodwin), 77, of Munroe Falls, Ohio, who passed away on May 31, 2021, surrounded by family. Barb was born on July 6, 1943 in Salem, IN. Barb was predeceased by her husband, George Pyatt; she is survived by her 4 children Doug, Debbie, Pat, and Steve, 5 grandchildren, and 6 great-grandchildren. A Celebration of Life service will be held Friday, June 25, from 5-9pm at The Ohio Sportsmans Club, 1775 Jacoby Rd. Copley, Ohio 44321. In lieu of flowers,...

We are saddened to announce the unexpected passing of Mark Edward Weakland on Sunday, May 30, 2021. Mark was born on March 4, 1957, to parents Leo and Brenda Weakland in Akron, OH. Growing up in Suffield and Mogadore, but, remaining in Akron and surrounding areas for most of his life. He worked for many years as a long haul & carry-all truck driver, and motorcycle mechanic. Mark had a passion and love for motorcycles, family and friends. He also had a very deep soul for music. Mark was...

Lawrence Coleman, 66, passed away peacefully on May 28, 2021 in Wadsworth, Ohio after suffering with several serious illnesses. He was born to Orville and Pearl Coleman on November 21, 1954 in Pikeville, Kentucky. He is survived by his siblings, Justine Kinney, Marlene (Wayne) Adkins, Rick (Barbara) Coleman, and Sally (George) Popa, and several children and grandchildren. Lawrence was preceded in death by his parents and eldest son. In his younger years, Lawrence had a great love of music...

Dennis Edward Parker, 74, of Canton, passed away on May 27, 2021. He was born on July 24, 1946 in Canton, OH, to James and Lillian Parker. Dennis was preceded in death by his son, Anthony "Bam" Parker. He is survived by his mother, Lillian Parker; daughters, Sharde' Parker (Josh) and Yvonne Parker (Danny); son, Evan Parker (Danielle); brothers, Richard and Mark Parker; sister, Jill Parker; nieces, nephews, 8 grandchildren, and a whopping 18 great grand children. Dennis was a...

Gerald Lee Harbaugh, 62, passed away Wednesday, May 26, 2021. No services are scheduled at this time.

On Friday, May 21, 2021, George Randall "Randy" Solsman of Copley, OH, loving husband and father of two daughters, passed away unexpectedly at the age of 69. Randy was born on March 12, 1952 in Sullivan, Indiana to George L. and Alice M. (Bogard) Solsman. He grew up on his beloved family farm and was proud to spend his summers selling watermelons to pay for his college tuition. He was awarded his master's in chemistry from Indiana State University. On February 5, 1983, he...

Susan Rae Prexta, age 74, passed away on May 17, 2021. Susan loved playing the piano, sewing, cooking, her dog, Lewi but mostly her family. She was a graduate of Our Lady of the Elms and studied nursing at the University of Akron, where she met her husband of 53 years, Michael. She is survived by her son Michael (Laura) Prexta; daughter Christine Wilson; grandchildren Hannah, John, Steven and David; brother, Jack Spallino and sisters, Barb Spallino and Marilyn Spallino and many nieces...

Harold O. Albright, age 71, of Akron, passed away on May 17, 2021. He was born in Bellefonte, PA to Dale and Mary (Duke) Albright. Harold was preceded in death by his parents: his siblings, Wesley, Rose, RC, and Jenny. He is survived by his brothers, Albert (fiance') Donald (wife); and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Harold enjoyed going camping, and watching NASCAR and wrestling. Harold's wish was to be cremated. The family will be receiving family and friends at Victory...

Sharon Elaine Reynolds, 72, passed away peacefully with her children by her side Sunday, May 16th 2021. Sharon devoted her life to her children, Sherry Samuels (Kenny),Charles Samuels (Lee Ann), Greg Samuels (Jeannie), Scotty Samuels, David Samuels (Stephanie) to her grandchildren, Joseph (Kristen), Tricia (Dewahn), Tiffany , Cathie , Casondra (Bryan), Eli (Tristan), Salena, Jager,Maurice, and to her great grandchildren, Addison, Skylar, Whitney, Waylon, Kayden,Landyn, Kaleah, Zayden,...

Jamie R. Johnson, age 46, passed away suddenly at his home of natural causes on May 10, 2021. He was born in Akron, OH on April 15, 1975. Jamie is survived by his parents, Rick (Mary Kay Roediger) Johnson, and Madeleine Johnson; his daughter, Estella Rose Johnson; his brother, Jesse Johnson; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins. Jamie was a graduate of Newark Catholic High School in Newark, Ohio. He managed for many years, Two Turtles Pet Center in Akron. Jamie's daughter, Estella, was the...

Rosalie (Fenton) Wheeler 4/18/41 - 5/8/2021 Our dear, wonderful, loving mother, Rosalie, went home to join our brother Paul, her daughter-in-law Pam, her brother Warren, parents and late husband, Jim. She was a great mom to her four children, she raised us on hope and prayers with limited resources. We were a wild bunch that she handled with love and fairness, taught us to work hard, be independent, stand up for ourselves and be kind. Because of her dedication, she saw that her...

James R. Cover, age 79, of Akron, passed away on May 8, 2021. James was born in Canton, OH on May 12, 1941 to Russell and Martha Cover. He was preceded in death by his parents. James is survived by his wife, Pamela (Ritchie) Cover; daughters, Michelle (Harry) Stover, and Dawn Walke; and 5 grandchildren. James' wish was to be cremated and private services will be held by family at a later date.

Marilyn (Lynn) Louise Lewis - 91, died peacefully May 8, 2021 after 6 years of alzheimers. Lynn was raised in, and around, Wellington Ohio. She was the 5th daughter of James and Buelah Richey. She went to school for Art at Kent State and continued as an artist her entire life. Lynn met Bob Lewis at a dance in Cleveland Ohio then flew to Germany to marry him. They spent the first year of their marriage living in Frankfurt, then came home to raise 4 children. Family, holidays, and community...

Mildred "Millie" Costill (Stiller), 94, passed away peacefully at her home on Friday, May 7, 2021, with her daughter, Nancy, by her side. Millie was born on March 18, 1927 in Akron, the daughter of Teresa and John Stiller. She graduated from South High School and married her long-time neighbor and friend Bob Costill and started her family. Millie was a stay-at-home mom at a time when many mothers were. She was an exceptional cook and baker and her cream puffs are legendary. She kept an...

Linda D. Schafer, 81, passed away peacefully on May 5, 2021. She was a 1958 graduate of Our Lady of the Elms High School. Mom and Dad met at an autumn dance Oct. 3, 1958 and danced to the song "Some Enchanted Evening", which became their song. They celebrated their 61st wedding anniversary Nov. 21, 2020. She is survived by her husband, Donald; daughters, Catherine (Jeff) Drake and Sally Goodyear; sister, Diane Pederson and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her...

Jerry Lohr passed away peacefully May 5, 2021 at the age of 97. He was a machinist for 30 years and loved polka and waltz dancing with his wife. He was a most devoted husband to our late mother, Virginia Lohr, a very loving father and grandfather. He leaves daughter Diane Lohr (Rhodes), son Larry Lohr; three grandchildren, Scott (Jennifer) Rhodes, Kelly (Ryan) Morton and Justin Lohr; also, five great grandchildren: Sean, George, Sophia, Harrison and Hudson. He will be missed and loved...

Harmon C. Velie, age 66, passed away unexpectedly on May 2, 2021. Harmon was born February 8, 1955 in Berea, Ohio and raised in the Akron/Copley area. He was a graduate of Copley High School in 1973 and attended The University of Akron.  Harmon was the epitome of a super fan. Harmon was the most adoring husband of his loving wife of 44 years and their four beautiful children. He was adored by his eight amazing grandchildren and was the greatest Papa that ever lived. Harmon was a...

Richard Stephen Bader 1928-2021 The End of an Era Richard Stephen Bader, born June 6, 1928, passed away May 1, 2021. Preceded in death by his parents Stephen Bader DDS and Charlotte Killian; sisters Mary Virginia Firestone, Eileen Wise; brothers John, Lawrence: wife Norma Davis; sons Mark, Richard and daughter Barbara Bishop (Soo Soo). He is survived by son Douglas. Dick was a dedicated member of Alcoholics Anonymous for 42 years. He will be remembered by many who found a new way of...

Robert Dale Tompkins, 64, passed away Saturday, May 1, 2021. No services are scheduled.

Mary Jane Thorsson, 98, went home to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on April 30, 2021. She was born on June 10, 1922 in Kenova, West Virginia. Mary Jane retired from O'Neils after 40 years of service. She was a lifelong member of The Chapel in Akron, where she sang in the choir and is now singing in heaven with Jesus. Mary Jane was an amazing person and went out of her way to make everyone feel welcome and loved. Mary Jane was preceded in death by her first husband, Charles...

Charlotte E. Halsell, 48, passed away Thursday, April 29, 2021. No services are scheduled at this time.

Lillian E. Beard, age 87, passed away Wednesday, April 28, 2021. Lill was born in Copley, OH and graduated from Copley High School. She retired from Copley-Fairlawn Schools and volunteered at Hospice. She was a life-long member of Norton Baptist Church where she taught Sunday school and sang in the choir. Lill was preceded in death by husband James; and sisters, Hazel and Helen. Lill is survived by her daughter, Lynn (Mickey) Bridwell, Louisville, KY; son, James W (Claudia) Beard, Copley,...

Rose E. Romig, 85, passed away peacefully on April 27, 2021. She was a graduate of Ellet High School and worked at Oak Hill Presbyterian Church as secretary for 30 years. She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Donald Romig. She is survived by her two sons, John Romig (Nicki) of Florida and Jim Romig (Brenda Csanad) of Alliance, Stacy Romig of Freeport, grandchildren Danny, Katie, Reagan, and Mitchell, great-granddaughter, Bella, her sister, Linda Nicholas (Jack) of East Liberty,...

Glenn Smith II, of Akron, passed away April 24 with his family by his side. Glenn was a 1982 graduate of Ellet High School. He loved sports and had been an avid bowler. He enjoyed walking his dog, Hank, and spending time with his family. Glenn is preceded in death by his parents, Glenn Smith and Donna Christner. Glenn is survived by his wife, Beth, daughters Allie (Ryan) and Amanda (Brandon) and granddaughters Avery and Memphis. He also leaves behind his beloved cousin, Elena, brother and...

David Gross, 66, on April 23, 2021 lost his courageous battle to cancer. He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Debra (Debbie) Gross and daughters Tiffany Gross and Ashley Gross. He loved spending time outdoors: hunting, fishing, or doing projects around the farm. He was retired from VanDevere's after almost 40 years. He will be greatly missed by family and many friends. Memorial service will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations to...

Cynthia Joe Martin (Cindy), was born on January 29, 1988 to Joyce Massey and the late William Martin, Jr in Charlotte, North Carolina. She passed away suddenly on April 19, 2021, taken way too soon, but to a better place and to be reunited with her son, Robert Izaya Wills and father, William D. Martin Jr. She is survived by her mother, Joyce Massey, her 3 beautiful, heartbroken daughters, Angel Summers, Alyiah Martin and Airyaunna Kirk; her only granddaughter, Winter Summers; sisters,...

  Rev. William D. Karg, 82, passed away peacefully on April 18, 2021. Fr. William Karg, was born and raised in Akron, and baptized at St. Sebastian Church. He was ordained a priest on May 23, 1964 after attending St. Meinrad Seminary, Borromeo and St. Mary Seminary in Cleveland. A life-long learner, following ordination Fr. Karg continued his education earning a Certificate in Urban Ministry at Case Western University, 1969; M. Div., St. Mary Seminary, Cleveland, 1977; Licentiate in...

Katherine "Kay" Marie McCarty (nee Gresock) passed away peacefully on Saturday, April 17, 2021. Kay was born on September 8th in a year that she never liked to say, keeping her children in the dark for decades as to her exact age. She grew up in Firestone Park, and then after marrying eventually settled in West Akron. Kay graduated from St. Vincent High School, putting off further schooling until later in life. She married John Richard "Dick" McCarty on May 24, 1952, and...

Jimmy Lavaughn Lee, age 66, passed away on April 15, 2021 at his residence. Jim was born in Opp, Alabama to Robert and Margaret Lee. Jim married Debra (Ward) Lee on January 1, 1983 and she survives. He is also survived by a daughter, Krystal (Mat) McNeil; sons, Cullan (Alysa) Lee, Jamey (Melissa) Hornsby, and Jason Dorsey; 10 grandchildren; and 3 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Margaret Lee; sisters, Barbara and Audrey. Jim grew up in Opp, Alabama,...

Gayle Albertine Martin, 70, passed away on April 15, 2021, surrounded by her daughter, De Vonna and son in-law, Obatahyay Bey. She was born July 31,1950 in Cleveland, Ohio. Gayle had 3 daughters, Veletta Ann Martin, who preceded her in death; Lisa Michelle Martin, and De Vonna Nichole Bey, who survive. She is also survived by her Aunt Ann Martin and a host of cousins, nieces, nephew and grandchildren. Gayle is lovingly remembered by her siblings, Anthony Martin of St. Louis MO, and Steven...

Mary Jo Canale-Johnson was born to Daniel and Alma Canale on February 13, 1962 and was the 7th of eight children to whom will live on in her memory. She was a blessing to this world because she devoted almost 40 years to being a pediatric nurse. Mary Jo traveled the world and saw the most beautiful scenes. Yet, the most beautiful thing was her soul. She was a loving wife to Terry Johnson for 22 years; her step children, Terry Witte, and Megan Kring, and their children; and above all, a...

Frances Burson (Wade) Manchester, OH April 12, 2021 With profound sadness I wish to inform you of the passing of my beloved wife (Fran), spouse Leonard, mother of two daughters Kimberly and Michelle; at age of 71 years due to complications of C.O.P.D. She was extremely proud of 52 years marriage. A homemaker who maintained the integrity of her household, kitchen and taking great pride in two children, four grandchildren, brother, sisters, nieces and nephews and canine companion (Shera). (I...

Thomas Robert Petty, age 69 years, passed away on April 11, 2021. He was born on December 29, 1951 in Barberton to the late Charles Eugene and Mary Margaret (Pyles) Petty. Tom was a 1970 graduate of Barberton High School. He worked at Seiberling Tire and Rubber Company for many years. Preceded in death by maternal grandparents, Roy and Jessie Pyles; paternal grandparents, Charles and Cynthia Petty; and beloved aunt and uncle, Ruby and Andy Bota; he is survived by siblings, Roy Petty and...

William Guy Combs, 73 years old, of Stow, passed away on April 9, 2021. Bill was a life-long resident of Akron and Stow, and a 1966 graduate of Central High School in Akron. He is preceded in death by his father, Bill Combs in 1960, and his step-father, Clay Saunier, in 1985. Bill is survived by his mother, Ila Combs Saunier of Stow, his brother Jim (Marie) of Allegan, MI, his sister Penny (Paul) Rausch of Elkhorn, WI, his niece Kelly (Jason) Brazer of Elkhorn, WI, his nephew Jeremy Combs...

1945-2021 Bonnie Jeanne (Hilson) Ray, 75, passed away peacefully after an extended illness on Wednesday, April 7, 2021 at Altercare in Cuyahoga Falls, OH. A daughter of the late Roy M. and Jeanne N. (Hurst) Hilson, Bonnie was born on April 17, 1945 in Canton, OH. Bonnie graduated from North Canton Hoover High School in 1963. She received her bachelor's degree in education from Malone College and her master's degree in education from the University of Akron. Bonnie taught for...

On April 6, 2021, Linda L. Lynch, loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend passed away at the age of 74. Linda was preceded in death by her parents, William V. and Anna Eva (Ritter) Rogers. She is survived by her husband of 56 years, John D. Lynch. Linda will be missed by her three sons, Matt (JoEllen), Jeff, and Josh (Jessica). Linda left behind 6 grandsons, Sean (Erica), Jeremy (Duska), Michael (Clarissa), Matthew, Aidan, and Tristan. She will be fondly...

John J. Brode, from Akron, was born February 10, 1970 and passed away peacefully in his sleep on April 5, 2021. He is preceded in death by his mother, Donna and grandmother, Dorothy. John leaves behind his son, Seth Brode of Indian Trail, NC and many special friends. A celebration of his life will be held on April 10, 2021 at 7pm at North Side Saloon, 639 East Cuyahoga Falls Ave. Akron, Ohio 44310.

Gayle Ann Tetreault, age 72, passed away peacefully on April 2, 2021. She was born in Cleveland, Ohio to the late Daniel and Ruth (Ford) Olszewski. Gayle was preceded in death by her grandparents, John, Anna Olszewski; William, Susie Ford; Gayle is survived by her siblings, Danielle Finch (Tom Wigand), Marilyn (Charles) Nichols, John (Sally) Olszewski; Nephews, John Charles (Joelle), Daniel (Amber), Matthew; Niece, Amanda; Great Niece, Addison; and many other family and friends She...

Colleen Ann Bowyer was born on March 5, 1932 and died April 2, 2021. She graduated from Buchtel High School in 1951 and the Actual Business College. She married John "Jack" Bowyer on September 28, 1957 and they were married for over 60 years. She was a member of Beta Sigma Phi, a Business girls sorority; sold tickets for Day of The Races and Harness Race, and she was in the top ten of ticket sellers for both organizations for two years. She was a member of Akron Woman's City...

Margy Anne Sprain, of Fairlawn, 95, passed away peacefully on March 31, 2021. Born in Akron to Harry and Dorothy (McCort) Dugan on January 24, 1926. Margy graduated from Central High School in 1944. Margy and her late husband James, lovingly raised five children in their Catholic faith. She returned to the workforce in 1971 at Monsanto Co., retiring as secretary to the Director of World-Wide Business, Instruments and Equipment, after 20 years service. Margy was a member of St. Hilary...

Mary Lucille Mamas (nee Elwood) passed away at The Village of St. Edward in Fairlawn on March 30, 2021 at the age of 95. Lucille was born in Akron, Ohio on January 29, 1926 to Mitchell and Mary Elwood. She was preceded in death by her husband George W. Mamas and son Mark G. Mamas. She is survived by her son William G. Mamas (Connie) of Hudson, Ohio and grandchildren Brenda K. Walsh (Brian) of Walnut Creek, CA, Troy W. Mamas of Hudson and Brian R. Mamas of Los Angeles, CA and great-grandsons...