Sherwood E. “Sherry” Albrecht, 89, of Medina, died Monday, September 1, 2014, at Hospice of Medina County, in Medina.

Sherwood was born May 15, 1925 in Cleveland, to Peter and Jeanette (Lingler) Albrecht.

He worked at Medina Supply Company for 43 years. In his early years, he enjoyed bowling and being a drummer in his band. In his later years, he enjoyed doing tractor pulls.

Sherwood will be deeply missed by his children, Cheryl (Gary) Brown of Lodi, Deryl (Sally) Albrecht of Medina, Sandy Sailer (Dale Turnbull) of Lafayette, and Cindy Slabaugh of Ashland; grandchildren, Stacey Albrecht, Bryan Albrecht, Chris Coudret, Shannon Courtock, Matt Brown, Nate Sailer, Sheri Bryant, Cally Slabaugh, Colton Slabaugh, Mike Miller, and Rebecca Miller; seven great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his children’s mother, Jan Albrecht; and special friend, Dave Sailer.

Sherwood was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Kenneth Albrecht and grandson, Cody Slabaugh.

Friends may call Thursday, September 4, 2014, from 6 until 8 P.M., at Roberts Funeral Home-Hillcrest Chapel, 9560 Acme Road, Seville. neral services will be Friday , Septmeber 5,at 11a A.M., in the funeral home. Burial will be at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Hospice of Medina County, in his name, 5075 Windfall Rd. Medina, OH 44256. The family would like to thank the caregivers at Emeritus at Camelot Place.

Online tributes may be made at www.RobertsFuneralHome.com

The post Sherwood E. “Sherry” Albrecht appeared first on The Medina County Gazette.

Louis J. Leligdon, Jr., 55, of Brook Park, was called to heaven Saturday, August 30, 2014.

Lou was a Berea High School graduate and a beloved Cleveland sports fan.

He was the son of Lois (Estep) Leligdon and the late Louis J. Sr.; father of Nicole and Chris (Laurel); brother of Andrea Pohlod, Joann Dunn, Susan Creagh (Matt), Paula and the late baby Lois; grandfather of Owen; uncle, cousin and friend to many.

Friends may call Thursday, September 4, 2014, 5 until 8 P.M., at the Baker Osinski Kensinger Funeral Home, 206 Front St., Berea. Funeral services are private.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Salvation Army.

Online condolences at www.bakerfuneralberea.com

The post Louis J. Leligdon, Jr. appeared first on The Medina County Gazette.

Roger Lee Ford, born September 20, 1953, passed away Monday, September 1, 2014.

His greatest joy was being with his family. He was proud of his three children and adored his eight grandchildren. His interests included hunting, fishing and western movies.

He was a long time employee of the River Terminal Railroad, alongside many family members.

Roger was preceded in death by the love of his life, Jill Staufer.

He is survived by children, Nicholas (Jill) Ford, Mark (Kelly) Ford, and Jane Staufer; grandchildren, Nicholas, Emma, Morgan, Abigail, Brooklynn, Owen, Jack, and Max; parents, William and Wilma Ford; siblings, Douglas (Margaret), Wanda (Paul) Header, and Penny (Kevin) Day.

Funeral service will be held at 3 P.M., Saturday, September 6, 2014, at Cox Funeral Home, 1376 High St., Wadsworth, with calling hours from 1 until 3 P.M. Mark Campo will officiate the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Jane Staufer.

The post Roger Lee Ford appeared first on The Medina County Gazette.

James Gorfido, 92, of Medina, passed away peacefully to be with his Lord and Savior on Monday, September 1, 2014. The oldest of seven children, he was born in Cleveland on March 24, 1922, to the late Sam and Carmela (nee Galasso) Gorfido. He is survived by his brothers, Pete, Sam, and Leo Gorfido and his sister, Teresa Letterly.

James was a United States Navy Veteran, where he honorably served as a cook and baker in Oakland, California, during World War II. James was also a proud member of the American Legion Post #202, for 45 years. Following his successful time in the Navy, his entrepreneurial spirit led him back to Medina, where he established himself as a respected contractor, developer, real estate broker, and realtor. He continued to pursue his dreams locally until he finally retired at the young age of 85! He was an avid golfer, fisherman, and he loved sports, especially Medina High School and the Cleveland Indians and Browns. But those who knew him understood his greatest passion was cooking. He loved to make homemade meatballs and sauce and to share with family and friends.

Above all else, James was a family man. His beloved wife of 47 years, Flo (nee Maitland, deceased) and love for his four children, Rick (deceased) and (Cindy) Gorfido, Cindy (Michael Merz) Sanginiti-Merz, Debbie Estes and beloved son-in-law, John Estes and Sammy (Tony) Gorfido, were his strength and inspiration. Known as the best grandpa (GG), in the world, he deeply loved and was equally cherished by his 10 grandchildren, Garth (Wendy) Sanginiti, Robyn (Matt) Watson, Nikkole Gorfido, Joe (Keisha) Gorfido, John (Monica) Estes, Marcie (Eric) Henning, Jeff Gorfido, Tadd (Jillian) Gorfido, Rusty (Sarah) Estes, and Jay Gorfido. GG also loved and admired his 21 great-grandchildren, which brought him tremendous joy the final 18 years of his life. He was a generous person, had an infectious smile, a great sense of humor and both his children and grandchildren loved working with him. He had a special bond, friendship and deep love for Grace Zay, who remained by his side the last 21 years. James was also a wonderful brother, uncle, nephew, cousin, and friend to everyone he met.

James was preceded in death by his brother, Angie Gorfido and sister, Marge Schmid.

Family will receive friends Friday, September 5, 2014, from 1 until 4 P.M., and 6 until 8 P.M., at Waite and Son Funeral Home, 765 N. Court St., Medina. A funeral service will be held Saturday, September 6, 2014 at 10 A.M., at Waite and Son Funeral Home. Roy Lehman, of First Baptist Church of Medina, will officiate a celebration of his life.

A special message from his surviving children:

Cindy: Dad, you are the best husband, father and grandfather anyone could ask for. We all love you and are in our hearts forever.

Debbie: You are a great and loving Dad.

Sammy: Love you Dad for all the good times in my life I had with you. I will miss calling every day. Dad, I love you and will see you some day.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Online condolences may be left at waitefuneralhome.com

The post James Gorfido appeared first on The Medina County Gazette.

Jared Anthony Johnson, 24, of Medina, passed away Tuesday, September 2, 2014. Jared was born June 23, 1990 in Medina.

He was a truck driver for World Truck and worked at Dominic’s Italian Restaurant for many years. He brought laughter, warmth, and comfort to many and in the moments when his mother, father, sister, brother, and the many others showed despair, Jared provided a noble message of hope and promise- in his unfailing conviction that his life here may be limited but by no means final.

Jared is survived by his loving parents, James A. Johnson and Denise (Calendine) Johnson; paternal grandparents, Reverend Mr. Joe and Joan Johnson; maternal grandmother, Therese Chaumont; brother, Jeremy (Toni) Johnson; sister, Jaime Johnson; nephews, Rylee and Bryce Johnson, and niece, Ava Johnson; many aunts, uncles and cousins; his faithful companion, Chloe and host of friends from Dominic’s and World Truck.

Services will be held 5 P.M., Saturday, September 6, 2014, at Waite & Son Funeral Home, 765 N. Court St., Medina 44256. Deacon Dan Norris will officiate. The family will receive friends from 1 until 5 P.M., Saturday before the funeral at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Johnson family in care of the funeral home.

The post Jared Anthony Johnson appeared first on The Medina County Gazette.

Jane E. Leaver, 49, of Medina, passed away Tuesday, September 2, 2014. Jane was born August 10, 1965 in Portsmouth, to Charles and Donna (Shepherd) Downey who now reside in Rutherfordton, North Carolina.

Jane is survived by her beloved husband, Jim, to whom she was married 24 years; loving children, Jamie (Shannon) Sawyer of Nashville, Tennessee, and Jordyn Leaver of Medina; stepdaughter, Lauren Leaver of Marietta; step granddaughter, Peyton Leaver; brothers, Charles (Stephanie) Downey of Forest City, North Carolina and Darrin Downey of Rutherfordton, North Carolina; mother-in-law, Beverly (Kenneth) Barker of Akron; brother-in-law, Robert Leaver; nieces, Haley, Sierra and Cheyenne Downey and Caridad Leaver and nephews, Carson Downey and Marco Leaver.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held Monday, September 8, 10 A.M., at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, 606 E. Washington St., Medina. Burial will follow at Spring Grove Cemetery. Family will receive friends Sunday, September 7, 2014, from 1 until 4 and 6 until 8 P.M., at the Waite & Son Funeral Home, 765 N. Court St., Medina.

In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to the Lazarex Cancer Foundation, P.O. Box 741, Danville CA 94526.

Online condolences may be left at waitefuneralhome.com

A full obituary will appear in Friday’s Gazette.

The post Jane E. Leaver appeared first on The Medina County Gazette.

Richard L. Stoper, 82, of Brunswick, passed away peacefully Sunday, August 31, 2014, his 57th wedding anniversary, at Medina Hospital, with his family at his side.

He was the beloved husband of Marianne (nee Barber); father of Richard (Debbie) and Susan Naff (Warren); grandfather of Sarah and Ben Stoper, and Greg and Brad Dietrich; dear brother of Dolores Forquer (deceased), Patty Tucker (Mick deceased), Lewis Stoper (DeVanna) and Alan Gray (Elaine), along with many nieces and nephews.

Richard was born in Brownton, West Virginia, January 30, 1932, to Lewis Stoper and Pauline Tushar. He was a graduate of Philippi High School, where he played football, basketball and baseball. Richard served as a radioman in the U.S. Navy from 1952 to 1956, aboard the USS Shields, a destroyer in the 7th Fleet, in the Pacific. On August 31, 1957, Richard married Marianne K. Barber at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Farmington, West Virginia.

Richard received his Bachelor of Arts degree from Fairmont State College in 1959 and his Master’s degree from Kent State University in 1967. From 1959 to 1973, Richard taught Industrial Arts at Brunswick High School and at Shiloh and Hillside junior high schools in Parma.

Richard was known as “Sonny” to his parents, siblings, grandchildren, nephews and nieces. He will always be remembered for his “sunny” personality and his kindness to his family and others. He was a dedicated and loving husband, a great father and grandfather, and a devoted teacher to his students. His hobbies included carpentry and raising a garden. However, more than anything else, he enjoyed, together with Marianne, spending time with his grandchildren and attending their school events. He was proud of his granddaughter, Sarah, who pursued a career in pharmacy. He was proud of his grandsons, Greg and Brad, who served in the U.S. Navy and U.S. Army respectively. He loved traveling throughout Ohio and the country to follow the sport exploits of his grandson, Ben.

The family wishes to thank the doctors, nurses, and staff at Medina Hospital for their service in this difficult time.

Friends may join the family for visitation Thursday, September 4, 2014 from 2 until 4 and 6 until 8 P.M., at Carlson Funeral Homes & Cremation Services, 1642 Pearl Rd., Brunswick. A Mass of Christian Burial will be Friday, September 5, 2014, 11 A.M., at St. Ambrose Catholic Church, 929 Pearl Road, Brunswick. There will be a one hour visitation prior to Mass at 10 A.M. Please meet at church. Interment will follow at Eastlawn Memory Gardens in Brunswick.

Richard requested that donations be made to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, Northeast Ohio Chapter, at http://www.jdrfneo.org.

Online condolences at www.carlsonfuneralhomes.com

The post Richard L. Stoper appeared first on The Medina County Gazette.

Frederick (Ben) Wheeland, 91, of Wadsworth, went to be with the Lord on Sunday, August 31, 2014, after a lengthy stay at AlterCare of Wadsworth. He was born January 31, 1923 in Windber, Pennsylvania, to Frederick Thomas Wheeland and Grace (Meyers) Wheeland.

He married Edna May “Cookie” Fulton on May 29, 1948. Ben retired from Goodyear Aerospace after 35 years. He was a member of Grace & Truth Tabernacle Church, where he was a song leader and Sunday school teacher. He was in the Army, World War II. He served in the Civilian Conservation Corps. He enjoyed playing baseball, bowling, singing, reading his Bible and enjoyed spending time with his family.

Ben will be deeply missed by his daughters, Pamela (Thomas) Fiala of Spencer, Paula (David) Elbon of Orlando, Florida, Carol (Glenn) Bryant of El Cajon, California; son, Thomas Wheeland of Lake Worth, Florida; his grandchildren and great-grandchildren; sisters, Ruth Myers, Etta “Babe” Gilbert; and brother, David Wheeland.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Edna May; and his brothers, Bob, Clair, Clark and Veryl.

Friends may call Saturday, September 6, 2014 from 2 until the time of funeral service at 3 P.M. at Roberts Funeral Home-Hillcrest Chapel in Seville. Pastor Gerald Morris will officiate. Burial will be at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens, where military rights will take place.

Online tributes can be made at www.robertsfuneralhome.com

The post Frederick (Ben) Wheeland appeared first on The Medina County Gazette.

Patricia “Patti” Ann Schaefer died peacefully Monday, September 1, 2014 at Medina Meadows. She was born December 10, 1954, to the late Robert and Dolores Wilhelm.

She is survived by her husband of 38 years, Paul; three children, Daniel (Kristen) Schaefer, Sarah (James) Petitt and Hannah (Adam) Schiffman; three grandchildren, Olivia, Jonas and James Paul; brothers, Tim and Richard Wilhelm; sisters, Dianne Labadie and Mary Ellen DeLong; and many, many more family members.

Patti will be remembered and missed most for her sense of humor and generous heart, examples of which are too many to include here. Patti grew up in Medina, graduating from Medina High School in 1973 and earning her LPN degree from Lorain County Community College in 1975. She and Paul moved to Valley City in 1978. Patti worked for several years at the former Shangri-La nursing home, in the office of Schaefer Plumbing with her husband Paul, and as a volunteer at St. Martin of Tours church in Valley City.

In addition to her children, she was the loving “mother” to two potbellied pigs, Roscoe and Weezer; and four faithful dogs over the years.

Patti’s family would like to thank the staffs of Medina Meadows and Hospice of Medina County for the excellent and compassionate care given to Patti over the last several years and the extra support given to her and her family during her final week.

Funeral Mass will be held 11 A.M., Friday, September 5, 2014 at St. Martin of Tours, Chapel, 1800 Station Road, Valley City, with Reverend Thomas Dunphy, officiating. Calling hours will be 2 to 5 and 6 to 9 P.M., Thursday, September 4, 2014 in the Gathering Area of St. Martin of Tours Church and also Friday from 9 to 10:30 A.M. prior to the funeral. Interment will be at St. Martin Church Cemetery, Valley City.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the St. Martin’s Building Fund, Hospice of Medina County, 5075 Windfall Road Medina, OH 44256 or Alzheimer’s Assoc. Greater Eastern Ohio Area, 70 W. Streetsboro St. Suite. 201, Hudson, OH 44236.

Bauer Funeral Home, Valley City. has the honor of serving the Schaefer family.

The post Patricia “Patti” Ann Schaefer appeared first on The Medina County Gazette.

Eric “Rick” J. Burgess, 63, beloved husband, father, papa, brother and uncle, passed peacefully in his sleep Tuesday, September 2, 2014, at Albany Medical Center, following a brief illness. His beloved family was by his side. He was born October 5, 1950, to his mother, Annette Yott Burgess and father, Earl Burgess, Jr.

Michele and Rick were married November 1, 1975 at Sacred Heart Church by Father Joseph Quinn. Together they raised three children.

Rick is survived by his wife of nearly 39 years, Michele and his children, Justin and wife, Jackie of Medina, Adrienne and Jarod, both of Bennington. He also leaves five grandsons, Damon, Carter, Cody, Jackson and Jake, as well as one granddaughter, Alana. Rick also leaves three sisters, Helen Morandi and husband, John of Bennington, Mary Bradt and husband Jeffrey of Cohoes, New York and Jo-Anne Prouty and husband, George of Bennington; a beloved aunt, Helen Yott of Connecticut as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins.

The funeral will be held Friday, September 5, 2014, at 10:30 A.M., from the Mahar and Son Funeral Home, with a prayer and then from Sacred Heart Saint Francis de Sales Church at 11 A.M., where the Liturgy of Christian Death and Burial will be offered. The burial will take place in the family lot in Park Lawn Cemetery. Friends may call at the Mahar and Son Funeral Home Thursday, September 4, 2014, from 4 until 7 P.M., when the family will be in attendance.

If friends desire, contributions, in memory of Rick, may be made in care of Michele Burgess for a scholarship for his grandchildren through the office of the Mahar and Son Funeral Home 628 Main St. Bennington, VT 05201. Guest book condolences may be made at www.maharandsonfuneralhome.net

The post Eric “Rick” J. Burgess appeared first on The Medina County Gazette.

Betty J. Rea, 87, of Valley City, passed away Thursday, September 4, 2014.

A complete obituary will be in Saturday’s paper.

Bauer Funeral Home, Valley City, is handling the arrangements.

The post Betty J. Rea appeared first on The Medina County Gazette.

Andre D. (Erdman) Martin-Sams passed away Tuesday, September 2, 2014 after her extended fight with Alzheimer’s. Andre was born April 20, 1934, to parents, Carlton F. and Nina I. Erdman, who preceded her in death.

Andre is survived by her loving husband of 30 years, Robert F. Sams. She is also survived by her sister, Carol R. (Popo) Erdman; daughters, Diana (Len) Smeltzer and Denise (Ken Bushong) Martin; grandchildren, Donald R. (Jessica) Kiser, Gabriela M. Smeltzer, and Richard C. Smeltzer; grandson, Robert F. Mann Sams (Kendra); great-grandson, Ryder Z. Kiser; stepchildren, Robert F. (Rose) Sams, Jr., Anthony W. Sams, Phenecia M. Curry and Wanda F. Sams; many other grandchildren and great-grandchildren and special friends, Joyce H. Thompson and Rose Ann DiNapoli.

Andre retired from the University of Akron. She was proud of her education, which included a Masters in English and Bachelors of Library Science, and was also a Paralegal. She was a great contributor of the Humane Society and a member of the Copley Historical Society for many years.

The family will have a private family memorial service. Cremation has already taken place.

Donations may be made to Hospice of Visiting Nurse, 3358 Ridgewood Road, Akron, OH 44333 or the Humane Society of Greater Akron, 7996 Darrow Road, Twinsburg, OH 44087.

Adams Mason Funeral Home and Crematory, 330-535-9186

The post Andre D. (Erdman) Martin-Sams appeared first on The Medina County Gazette.

Jane E. Leaver, 49, of Medina, passed away Tuesday, September 2, 2014, after a long courageous battle with lung cancer, surrounded by friends and family.

Jane is survived by her beloved husband, Jim, to whom she was married 24 years; loving children, Jamie (Shannon) Sawyer of Nashville, Tennessee and Jordyn Leaver of Medina; stepdaughter, Lauren Leaver of Medina; step-grandaughter, Peyton Leaver; brothers, Charles (Stephanie) Downey of Forest City, North Carolina and Darrin Downey of Rutherfordton, North Carolina; mother-in-law, Beverly (Kenneth) Barker of Akron; brother-in-law, Robert Leaver; nieces, Haley, Sierra and Cheyenne Downey and Caridad Leaver; nephews, Carson Downey and Marco Leaver and many, many friends.

She was born August 10, 1965 in Portsmouth. After graduating from Cloverleaf High School, Jane earned a degree in social work from University of Akron. She had many interesting jobs during her career, including probation officer, police dispatcher, social worker for children’s services, Medina City council member, administrative assistant to Mayor of North Olmsted and most notably, Mayor of the City of Medina for eight years.

Jane tackled her cancer battle the same way she tackled any challenge that she faced. She reviewed all of the options, weighed the pros and cons of each and moved forward with her decision in a positive and energetic way. This process served her well as she won each battle for the last four years.

Over the years, Jane was active in several charitable organizations and served on many boards. She was very committed to SPCA and on more than one occasion, opened her home to give rescue dogs a forever home.

Among her friends, Jane was known for her love of family, strong faith in God, passion for sports and an interesting sense of humor. She also enjoyed cooking, organizing and had a very creative side when it came to crafts. There was never a challenge too big to tackle in Jane’s mind. She just took it one step at a time until it was complete. She especially enjoyed spending time with her family and many friends. She was more than Mrs. Leaver to her daughter’s friends, for many of them she was also “mom”.

Jane was an inspiration and touched the lives of so many. Her devotion to her family, friends, faith and her passion for life leaves a legacy that will not soon be forgotten.

“Your presence we’ll miss, your memories we’ll treasure, we’ll love you always, and forget you never”

Mass of Christian Burial will be held Monday, September 8, 2014, 10 A.M., at St Francis Xavier Church, 606 E Washington St., Medina. Burial will follow at Spring Grove Cemetery. The family will receive friends, to celebrate Jane’s life, Sunday, September 7, from 1 until 4 and 6 until 8 P.M., at Waite & Son Funeral Home, 765 N Court St., Medina.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Lazarex Cancer Foundation, P.O. Box 742, Danville CA 94526.

Online condolences may be left at waitefuneralhome.com

The post Jane E. Leaver appeared first on The Medina County Gazette.

James Gorfido, 92, of Medina, passed away peacefully to be with his Lord and Savior on Monday, September 1, 2014. The oldest of seven children, he was born in Cleveland on March 24, 1922, to the late Sam and Carmela (nee Galasso) Gorfido. He is survived by his brothers, Pete, Sam, and Leo Gorfido and his sister, Teresa Letterly.

James was a United States Navy Veteran, where he honorably served as a cook and baker in Oakland, California, during World War II. James was also a proud member of the American Legion Post #202, for 45 years. Following his successful time in the Navy, his entrepreneurial spirit led him back to Medina, where he established himself as a respected contractor, developer, real estate broker, and realtor. He continued to pursue his dreams locally until he finally retired at the young age of 85! He was an avid golfer, fisherman, and he loved sports, especially Medina High School and the Cleveland Indians and Browns. But those who knew him understood his greatest passion was cooking. He loved to make homemade meatballs and sauce and to share with family and friends.

Above all else, James was a family man. His beloved wife of 47 years, Flo (nee Maitland, deceased) and love for his four children, Rick (deceased) and (Cindy) Gorfido, Cindy (Michael Merz) Sanginiti-Merz, Debbie Estes and beloved son-in-law, John Estes and Sammy (Tony) Gorfido, were his strength and inspiration. Known as the best grandpa (GG), in the world, he deeply loved and was equally cherished by his 10 grandchildren, Garth (Wendy) Sanginiti, Robyn (Matt) Watson, Nikkole Gorfido, Joe (Keisha) Gorfido, John (Monica) Estes, Marcie (Eric) Henning, Jeff Gorfido, Tadd (Jillian) Gorfido, Rusty (Sarah) Estes, and Jay Gorfido. GG also loved and admired his 21 great-grandchildren, which brought him tremendous joy the final 18 years of his life. He was a generous person, had an infectious smile, a great sense of humor and both his children and grandchildren loved working with him. He had a special bond, friendship and deep love for Grace Zay, who remained by his side the last 21 years. James was also a wonderful brother, uncle, nephew, cousin, and friend to everyone he met.

James was preceded in death by his brother, Angie Gorfido and sister, Marge Schmid.

Family will receive friends Friday, September 5, 2014, from 1 until 4 P.M., and 6 until 8 P.M., at Waite and Son Funeral Home, 765 N. Court St., Medina. A funeral service will be held Saturday, September 6, 2014 at 10 A.M., at Waite and Son Funeral Home. Roy Lehman, of First Baptist Church of Medina, will officiate a celebration of his life.

A special message from his surviving children:

Cindy: Dad, you are the best husband, father and grandfather anyone could ask for. We all love you and are in our hearts forever.

Debbie: You are a great and loving Dad.

Sammy: Love you Dad for all the good times in my life I had with you. I will miss calling every day. Dad, I love you and will see you some day.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Online condolences may be left at waitefuneralhome.com

The post James Gorfido appeared first on The Medina County Gazette.

Jane E. Leaver, 49, of Medina, passed away Tuesday, September 2, 2014, after a long courageous battle with lung cancer, surrounded by friends and family.

Jane is survived by her beloved husband, Jim, to whom she was married 24 years; loving children, Jamie (Shannon) Sawyer of Nashville, Tennessee and Jordyn Leaver of Medina; step-daughter, Lauren Leaver of Medina; step-grandaughter, Peyton Leaver; parents, Charles and Donna (Shephard) Downey of Rutherfordton, North Carolina; brothers, Charles (Stephanie) Downey of Forest City, North Carolina and Darrin Downey of Rutherfordton, North Carolina; mother-in-law, Beverly (Kenneth) Barker of Akron; brother-in-law, Robert Leaver; nieces, Haley, Sierra and Cheyenne Downey and Caridad Leaver; nephews, Carson Downey and Marco Leaver and many, many friends.

She was born August 10, 1965 in Portsmouth. After graduating from Cloverleaf High School, Jane earned a degree in social work from University of Akron. She had many interesting jobs during her career, including probation officer, police dispatcher, social worker for children’s services, Medina City council member, administrative assistant to Mayor of North Olmsted and most notably, Mayor of the City of Medina for eight years.

Jane tackled her cancer battle the same way she tackled any challenge that she faced. She reviewed all of the options, weighed the pros and cons of each and moved forward with her decision in a positive and energetic way. This process served her well as she won each battle for the last four years.

Over the years, Jane was active in several charitable organizations and served on many boards. She was very committed to SPCA and on more than one occasion, opened her home to give rescue dogs a forever home.

Among her friends, Jane was known for her love of family, strong faith in God, passion for sports and an interesting sense of humor. She also enjoyed cooking, organizing and had a very creative side when it came to crafts. There was never a challenge too big to tackle in Jane’s mind. She just took it one step at a time until it was complete. She especially enjoyed spending time with her family and many friends. She was more than Mrs. Leaver to her daughter’s friends, for many of them she was also “mom”.

Jane was an inspiration and touched the lives of so many. Her devotion to her family, friends, faith and her passion for life leaves a legacy that will not soon be forgotten.

“Your presence we’ll miss, your memories we’ll treasure, we’ll love you always, and forget you never”

Mass of Christian Burial will be held Monday, September 8, 2014, 10 A.M., at St Francis Xavier Church, 606 E Washington St., Medina. Burial will follow at Spring Grove Cemetery. The family will receive friends, to celebrate Jane’s life, Sunday, September 7, from 1 until 4 and 6 until 8 P.M., at Waite & Son Funeral Home, 765 N Court St., Medina.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Lazarex Cancer Foundation, P.O. Box 742, Danville CA 94526.

Online condolences may be left at waitefuneralhome.com

The post Jane E. Leaver appeared first on The Medina County Gazette.

Betty J. Rea, 87, of Valley City, passed away Wednesday, September 3, 2014 at Plum Creek Assisted Senior Living in Brunswick surrounded by her family.

Betty is survived by her loving children David, Valley City, Douglas (Deborah) of Valley City and Jan (Thomas) Hablitzel of Hudson; grandchildren, Justin (Megan) Rea of Brunswick, Charlie (Heather) Rea of Springboro, Ohio, Amy Hablitzel of Hudson, Heather Rea of Brunswick and Evan Hablitzel of Hudson; great-granddaughter, Aurora (Rory) Serenity Rea of North Ridgeville; nephews, Alan (Shannon) Lurkins of Vandalia, Illinois, Brad (Tammy) Lurkins of Greenville, Illinois; niece, Jean (Donald) Doll of Greenville and their children, all whom loved visits from Aunt Betty and Uncle Johnny when they traveled “home” to Illinois.

Betty Jean Motzer was born October 19, 1926 in Greenville, Illinois, to the late Charles Raymond and Julia Gertrude (nee Nolan) Motzer. She graduated from Greenville High School in 1944 and was married to John Rea, Jr. on October 21, 1944. They enjoyed more than 54 years of marriage until his death on February 10, 2000. They were stationed in Atlanta, Georgia and Corpus Christi Naval Air Station during John’s service in the U.S. Navy. After WWII, they moved to Flat Rock, Michigan, where all of her children were born.

On May 1, 1966, they moved to Valley City and Betty called it home for the last 48 years. Betty was active in the Valley City Garden Club, Buckeye Boosters Club; Thursday Morning Women’s Golf League at Valley Forge GC (nee Cherokee Hills) and especially enjoyed being a member of Women’s Fellowship at Emmanuel United Church of Christ in Valley City where she had many, many friends who she loved very much. She was the Chamber Manager of the Brunswick Chamber of Commerce in Brunswick for many years and was the organizer and one of the founders of Brunswick’s Old Fashioned Days. Her hobbies included toile painting and ceramics for which she had a great talent.

She was preceded in death by her only sibling, Nina Marie (Darrell) Lurkins; and a niece, Betty (nee Stewart) Bohn.

Funeral Service will be held at 11 A.M., Monday, September 8, 2014 at Emmanuel United Church of Christ, 6656 Center Road Valley City. Reverend Bert Ambrose, Jr. officiating. Burial will follow at Myrtle Hill Cemetery, Valley City. The family will receive friends to celebrate Betty’s life, Sunday, September 7, 2014 from 4 to 7 P.M. at the Bauer Funeral Home, 2089 Columbia Road, Valley City.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Emmanuel United Church of Christ or the Crossroads Hospice, 3743 Boettler Oaks Dr. Suite E, Green, OH 44685.

The post Betty J. Rea appeared first on The Medina County Gazette.

Eugene W. McMahon, 89, of Wadsworth, died Saturday September 6, 2014, at Barberton Citizen Hospital. Eugene was born November 7, 1924 in Macedonia, Ohio to Manford and Helen (Harrington) McMahon.

He graduated from Macedonia High School in 1942. He served in the U.S. Army during WWII, where he fought bravely in the Battle of the Bulge. He married Mildred (Simmons) on March 31, 1951. Eugene worked as a Dairy Farmer, and at Brecksville VA Hospital where he retired in 1985. He was a member of the Medina County Gem and Mineral Club. He enjoyed camping, blacksmithing, wood carving, silversmithing, and lapidary.

Eugene will be deeply missed by his wife; children, Carol (Robert) Ullman of Rinard Mills, Ohio, Barbara McMahon of Doylestown, Joyce (Dave) Holmes of Doylestown; grandchildren, Mark, Eric Raw, Christine (Thomas) Boche, Kathryne, Jacob Rubright; five great-grandchildren; brother, Harold (Martha) McMahon; sister, Margaret (Dean) Partlo.

Eugene was preceded in death by his parents; brother, John; sisters, Verna, and Lois.

Friends may call Tuesday, September 9, 2014 from 4 until 7 P.M., at Roberts Funeral Home-Hillcrest Chapel, Seville. Funeral services will be Wednesday, September 10, 2014, at 1 P.M., at the funeral home with Pastor Jerry Fox officiating. Burial will be at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens, where military rites will be held.

Online tributes may be made at www.RobertsFuneralHome.com

The post Eugene W. McMahon appeared first on The Medina County Gazette.

Nettie Jayne Stepp (Edwards)

July 1, 1931 – July 21, 2014

There will be a memorial for Nettie Jayne Stepp (Edwards) at Medina Union Mission Church, 6208 Norwalk Rd., Medina. (Rt. 18 next to Genes Refrigeration), Friday, September 12, 2014 at 6 P.M.

The family would like to extend an invitation to anyone wishing to attend.

The post Nettie Jayne Stepp (Edwards) appeared first on The Medina County Gazette.

Thomas Gumm, Sr., 80, of Meta, Missouri, passed away Saturday, September 6, 2014, at Linn Community Skilled Care in Linn, Missouri.

Visitation will be Wednesday, September 10, 2014 from 4:30 until 7 P.M., at the Meta Ricker Memorial Church of the Nazarene, 33285 Missouri 133, Meta, Missouri 65058.

Funeral Services, conducted by Pastor Jake Blankenship, will be held 10 A.M., Thursday, September 11, 2014, at the church and there will be a visitation one hour prior to the service as well. Burial will follow in Stokes Cemetery. Thomas is survived by his son, Thomas, Jr.; daughters, Barbara and Mary, as well as 11 grandchildren.

Memorial contributions are requested to the Gumm Family c/o Meta Ricker Memorial Church of the Nazarene.

Arrangements by Heartland Cremation & Burial Society of Jefferson City, MO (573) 636-7850. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.heartlandcremation.com

The post Thomas Gumm, Sr. appeared first on The Medina County Gazette.

Lois M. Pearson, 91, of Strongsville, was welcomed into heaven Sunday, September 7, 2014. She was born December 26, 1922 in McKeesport, Pennsylvania, to the late Samuel and Nellie (nee McDonough) Marks.

As a young woman, she was a deaconess in the Lutheran Church. In her lifetime, she served as a social worker, Christian education director and preschool teacher. She enjoyed music, playing in a bell choir at church, and arts and crafts, providing many beautiful gifts for friends and family. The greatest gift she shared with her family was her abiding faith.

She will be dearly missed by her daughters, Janice (Pastor Scott) Silcox of North Royalton and Renee (Vince) Anaclerio of Auburn, California; loving grandchildren, Joseph and Elisa Regacho and Amanda and Rachel Silcox.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Ralph K. Pearson in 2009; brothers, William (Bill) Marks, Ray Marks, and Samuel Marks II.

Friends and family may call Thursday, September 11, 2014, from 1 until 3 P.M., at Our Saviour Lutheran Church, 1605 Center Road, Hinckley 44233. Services will follow at 3 P.M., with son-in-law, Pastor Scott Silcox and Pastor Carolyn Wagar-Hier officiating. Interment will follow at Hope Memorial Gardens in Hinckley.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Our Saviour Lutheran Church or Southwest General Hospice, 18659 Drake Rd., Strongsville, OH 44136.

Online condolences may be left at www.waitefuneralhome.com

The post Lois M. Pearson appeared first on The Medina County Gazette.