CONNEAUT, OHIO HISTORY & GENEALOGY

BURIALS of PERSONS who have lived in Conneaut, Ohio and are either  buried elsewhere or the cemetery is not listed in the obituary.

Freda B. Hammond

CONNEAUT - Freda B. Hammond, 85, formerly of Harbor Street, died Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2003, at UHHS Brown Memorial Hospital of Conneaut.
She was born Dec. 13, 1917 in Sheffield Township, the daughter of Albert and Inez (Weaver) Johnson.
Survivors include two sons, Paul H. Jr. and Robert L. Hammond of Blythedale, Mo.; and two grandchildren, Angela Kay and Amanda Lynn Hammond.
She was preceded in death by her parents; and husband, Paul H. Hammond Sr.
Graveside services will take place at a later date.
No calling hours will be observed.
Marcy Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 208 Liberty St., Conneaut is handling arrangements.


Delmar Blankenship

ASHTABULA - Delmar Blankenship, 65, of Joseph Avenue, died Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2003, at the Ashtabula County Medical Center.
He was born Sept. 13, 1937, in McDowell, Ky., the son of Gobal and Virgie (Gayheart) Blankenship.
He worked at Koski Construction Co.
Mr. Blankenship enjoyed visiting Markko Vineyard in Conneaut, playing the lottery, working on cars, sailing the Great Lakes and spending time with his grandchildren.
Survivors include a son, Glennin "Dale" Tackett of Ashtabula; three daughters, Janice Nesbitt of Jefferson and Debbie Chaplin and Cheryl Blankenship, both of Ashtabula; seven grandchildren; and a sister, Carol Mull of Florida.
Mr. Blankenship was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Hargis Blankenship; and four sisters, Marsela Hatfield, Sally Benton, Zola Blankenship and Vivian Murphy.
There will be no funeral service or calling hours at Mr. Blankenship's request.
The Donald E. Walker Funeral Home, 828 Sherman St., Geneva, is handling arrangements.


Donald P. Matteson

CONNEAUT - Donald Phillip Matteson, 83, died Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2003, at the Hospice unit of Ashtabula County Medical Center.
He was born April 26, 1919, in Geneva, the son of Phillip and Pearl (Klingler) Matteson and had been a lifelong area resident.
A World War II veteran, he worked as a motor assembler at Reliance Electric Co., for 33 years, retiring in 1983.
Mr. Matteson was a member of Conneaut's First Assembly of God Church. He enjoyed reading, drawing, working in the yard and especially spending time with his grandchildren.
Survivors include his wife, the former Violet Gruening; a daughter, Debbie Picard of Jefferson; and two grandchildren, Cassi and Andy Picard.
He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Robert.
Service is 11 a.m. Friday at Potti Lakeside Funeral Home, 1329 Lake Ave., Ashtabula. The Rev. Kenneth Roberts and the Rev. Jack Cook will officiate. Burial will be at North Kingsville's Eastlake Cemetery.
Calling hours at the funeral home are 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Hospice unit at Ashtabula County Medical Center.


Danny L. Tilson

ASHTABULA - Danny L. Tilson, 57, of North Ridge Road West, died Monday, Jan. 13, 2003, at University Hospital of Cleveland.
He was born June 18, 1945, in Beckley W.Va., to Dewey L. and Helen I. (Lester) Tilson.
He married Cindy McElroy Sept. 30, 2000.
Mr. Tilson was a foreman at Neff-Perkins in Perry for 16 years.
He was a member of New Life Assembly of God, Geneva.
Mr. Tilson enjoyed fishing, motorcycling and four-wheeling. He was an animal and nature lover.
Survivors include his wife; daughters Tammy Cantrell of Conneaut, DeNette Lea Paul of Marietta, Ga., and DeAnna Deanne Zeigler of Waldorf, Md.; stepdaughters Angela Arnett of Kingsville and Jeanna Arnett of Painesville; stepson Gilbert Arnett of Buckhannon, W.Va.; grandchildren Tiffany, Sophia, TeAnna, David, Ayla, Billy, Aryelle and Gabrielle; one great-grandchild; brothers Rocky of Austinburg, David of Geneva and Michael of Huntington, W.Va.; and sisters Brenda Lester of LaFayette, Tenn. and Wanda Cagle of Perry.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Funeral is 11 a.m. Friday at the Donald E. Walker Funeral Home, 828 Sherman St., Geneva, officiated by the Rev. Harry Pischura of New Life Assembly of God of Geneva. Burial is in Mechanicsville Cemetery, Austinburg.
Calling hours are 7 to 9 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home.
Memorial contributions may be made to the family. Envelopes available at the funeral home.


Paul H. Klasen

ROSEBURG, Ore. — Paul Henry Klasen, 83, died Saturday, Dec. 28, 2002 in a nursing center. He was born Oct. 12, 1919 in Madison, the son of Henry and Mildred (Benjamin) Klasen.
Mr. Klasen enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps in June 1942 and served until the end of World War II.
He married Ruby Kinder on May 25, 1945 in San Diego. Mr. Klasen later enlisted in the U.S. Marine corps Reserves and was called back to active duty during the Korean Conflict. The Klasens lived in San Diego for 31 years. Mr. Klasen worked in civil service and retail sales until his retirement in 1986. The Klasens moved from San Diego to Roseburg in 1986.
Mr. Klasen was a member of the National Milk Glass Association. He was an avid bowler, fisherman, took long walks, enjoyed traveling in the U.S. and collecting milk glasses and china.
Survivors include his wife and a sister, Ruth Brunson of Conneaut.
He was preceded in death by his parents, a sister, Dorothy; and three brother, Richard, Ken and Lynn.
At his request, there will be no service. Private inurnment will be in the Roseburg National Cemetery.
Wilson’s Chapel of the Roses is handling arrangements.


William T. Hodgkinson Sr.

ASHTABULA - William T. Hodgkinson Sr., 69, of West 48th Street, died Thursday, Jan. 9, 2003, at Ashtabula County Medical Center.
He was born Jan. 5, 1934, in Ashtabula, the son of William A. and Bernice (Walton) Hodgkinson and had been an area resident most of his life.
Prior to his retirement, he worked more than 20 years as a welder for CEI.
A Marine veteran, he served in the Korean Conflict. He enjoyed hunting, camping, fishing, baseball, playing with his grandchildren and a good cup of coffee.
His survivors include his wife, Shirley (Sutton); three children, Rhonda Manniko of Conneaut, Valerie Kennedy of Lady Lake, Fla. and William Thomas Jr. of Ashtabula; six grandchildren, Heather, Adrianna, Kimberly, Kayla, Tabitha and Nicole; three great-grandchildren; five brothers, Walter, Edgar and Dale, all of Ashtabula and Roy of Pineville, Mo. and Timothy of Pierpont; three sisters, Margaret Drum of Port Bolivar, Texas, Gale Hodgkinson of Ashtabula and Joyce Bogar of Conneaut.
He was preceded in death by his parents; five brothers, John, Ronald and David in infancy, Willard and Paul; and one stepbrother, Frederick.
A memorial service will be 4 p.m. Sunday, at Zaback-Czup Funeral Home, 500 West Prospect, Ashtabula, with Elder Bill Daywalt of Prospect Presbyterian Church officiating. No calling hours will be observed. Memorials may be made to the family.


Betty J. Butcher

SAYBROOK TOWNSHIP - Betty J. Butcher, 80, died Thursday, Jan. 9, 2003, at Ashtabula County Medical Center following a brief illness.
She was born Aug. 15, 1922, in Ontario, Canada, the daughter of George and Edna (McNutt) Foster, and has been a lifelong Ashtabula resident.
Mrs. Butcher was employed by the former Yoder Bros. Greenhouses of Ashtabula. She was a former member of Prospect Presbyterian Church. She enjoyed cooking and being with her family.
Survivors include four daughters, Bobbie Brindley, Susan Peggs, Beth Yost and Joni Hapach, all of Ashtabula; a son, Jerry Butcher of Conneaut; 16 grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; and a sister, Shirley Pellone of Ashtabula.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, four brothers, Laurence, George and James Foster and Donald Whittenberger.
Service will be 11 a.m. Monday at Childs and Williams Family Funeral Home, 1440 W. Prospect Road, Ashtabula, with the Rev. Joe Ernspiker of Living Water Baptist Church of North Kingsville officiating. Burial will follow in Saybrook Cemetery, Saybrook Township.
Calling hours will be 3 to 5 p.m. Sunday, at the funeral home. Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of ones choice. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.


Michael J. Simpson

COLUMBUS- Michael Joseph Simpson, 75, died Monday, Jan. 6, 2003, at Kobacker House after a lengthy illness.
He was born Nov. 2, 1927 in Ashtabula, the son Michael and Marion Simpson.
After graduating from Conneaut High School, he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force where he enjoyed a 28 year career.
He was given numerous awards for distinguished service to his country, including an award bestowed by President Richard M. Nixon.
He served his country at bases in Spokane, Wash., Dover, Del., Naples, Italy, Thailand, Sumter, S.C., Wiesbaden, Germany, Austin, Texas, and Syracuse, N.Y.
After retiring from the Air Force, he attended Kent State University.
Mr. Simpson held other positions at various corporations and finished his working career as a purchasing agent for Doctor's Hospital in Columbus.
He was a resident of Powell for the past 17 years and was an avid sports fan.
Survivors include his wife of 54 years, Patricia of Columbus; sons, Michael of Springfield, Va., Mark of Stow, Douglas of Powell, and Patrick of Jacksonville, Fla.; grandchildren, Kyle, Brooke, Sarah and Erin; three brothers and two sisters.
Preceding him in death were his parents; Michael and Marion; and a brother, Tommy.
At Mr. Simpson's request no calling hours or service will take place.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Kobacker House Hospice at Riverside and Grant in Columbus.
The Rodman Funeral Service, 5464 N. High St., Columbus is handling arrangements.


Matthew D. Bartosek

EAST SPRINGFIELD, Pa. - Matthew D. Bartosek, 19, died Friday, Jan. 3, 2003, while competing in the ATV Winter Olympics in Gainesville, Fla.
He was born Sept. 17, 1983, in Conneaut, the son of Edward and Debi Bartosek.
He had been active in Little League and Little Gridders, playing on All-Star teams for both. He also had been a member of the Trail Blazer 4-H Club.
Mr. Bartosek was a 2002 graduate of Northwestern High School and was employed as a service technician at Baldwin Motorsports in Ashtabula.
His memberships included: West Springfield United Methodist Church; American Motorcycle Association (AMA); All Terrain Vehicle Association; and the Competition Riders Association.
In 1998 and 1999, he was the overall youth champion of the AMA GNC racing series. In 1999, he received the ATV Sports People's Choice "Most Feared Youth Rider" award. In 2000, Mr. Bartosek was presented the Randy Howard Memorial Award, in recognition of his professionalism, sportsmanship and winning attitude throughout the 2000 ATV Grand National series.
He finished 11th nationally in his rookie year in Pro class.
Survivors include his father and stepmother, Edward Bartosek and Ann (English) of West Springfield, Pa.; mother, Debi Bartosek, and her companion, Jody Bateman of East Springfield, Pa.; two brothers, John Bartosek of East Springfield, Pa. and Steve English of West Springfield, Pa.; sister, Stephanie English of West Springfield, Pa.; girlfriend, Rachel Furman of Jefferson; maternal grandparents, Fred and Charon Wilkin of Fort Myers, Fla.; and paternal grandmother, Louise Carmella Bartosek of Edinboro, Pa.
He was preceded in death by his paternal grandfather, Frank Bartosek.
Service will be 11 a.m. Saturday at West Springfield United Methodist Church, with the Rev. Robert K. Klinger officiating.
Burial will follow in Hope Cemetery, Albion, Pa.
Calling hours will be 7 to 9 p.m. Thursday and 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. Friday at Burton Funeral Home, 525 Main St. E., Girard, Pa.
Memorial contributions may be made to the West Springfield United Methodist Church; or Caring for Life, c/o Presbyterian Homes, 2816 Elmwood Ave., Erie, Pa. 16508.


Robert Mitchell

CONNEAUT - Robert Mitchell, 75, of State Street, died Monday, Jan. 6, 2003, at UHHS Brown Memorial Hospital of a probable coronary.
He was born Sept. 2, 1927, in Cudahy, Wis. He moved to Conneaut in 1948.
Mr. Mitchell was a World War II veteran, serving with the U.S. Navy in the Pacific.
He was a member and former governor of the Conneaut Moose Lodge and was a member, officer and former manager of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Club in Conneaut. At one time, he managed a CLYO baseball team, as well as a slow-pitch softball team.
Mr. Mitchell had been employed as a meat cutter at area grocery stores and retired as head custodian at Conneaut High School. For the past two years, he was employed in the security department at Millennium Chemicals in Ashtabula.
He enjoyed golfing, carpentry, his family and his pet dog, Wesley.
Survivors include his wife, Mary Louise (Kuhn); four daughters, Linda Lucas and Susan Kelley, both of Conneaut, Joann Smith of North Kingsville, and Barbara Sinderly of Port Colborne, Ontario, Canada; two sons, Robert of Conneaut, and Wayne Mitchell of Lakewood; two sisters, Virginia Brown of Madison, and Geralding Bartlett of McKane, Pa.; ten grandchildren, Gloria Liocano, Michele McVoy, Greg Lucas Jr., Kelly Greaves, Shannon Kulyk, Corey Smith, Christina Smith, Kayla and Sarah Mitchell, and Dakoda Sinderly; and four great-grandchildren.
Mr. Mitchell was preceded in death by his mother, Mae Sonoski, and three sisters, Gladys Knitter, Dolores Schimelemin and Beatrice Safrano.
At Mr. Mitchell's request, there are no calling hours or services.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Conneaut Rescue Squad or the CLYO. Envelopes are available at the Marcy Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 208 Liberty St., Conneaut.


Suzanne C. Wright


UPPER DARBY, Pa. - Suzanne Church Wright, 41, formerly of Conneaut, died Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2003, at her home following a long battle with cancer.
She was born April 21, 1961, in Conneaut, to Anthony "TC" and Frances (Libera) Church.
She attended Conneaut High School.
Survivors include two sons, Clifford and David Wright, of Upper Darby, Pa.; her mother, Frances Church of Kawkawlin, Mich.; two brothers, John Church of Fayetteville, N.C., and Nic Church of Conneaut; and a sister, Nanci Church of Fort Lauderdale, Fla.
She was preceded in death by her father and a sister, Linda Church.
Funeral Mass is 10 a.m. Wednesday at St. Cyril's Church on East Penn Boulevard in Lansdowne, Pa.
Arrangements are being handled by the O'Leary Funeral Home, Springfield, Pa.


Ruth E. Boggs

DORSET TOWNSHIP - Ruth E. Boggs, 85, of Route 307 died Saturday, Jan. 4, 2003, at the home of her daughter in Medina.
Mrs. Boggs was born Oct. 3, 1917, in Lenox Township, the daughter of Kline H. and Nellie M. (Evans) Spencer. She had been a lifelong Dorset Township resident, but lived with her daughter in Medina for the past three years for medical reasons.
She was a 1935 graduate and salutatorian of Dorset High School.
She was married to Ross Boggs Sr. on Jan. 23, 1937, at the Dorset Methodist Church parsonage. Before her husband's death, they wintered in Sebring, Fla., for several years.
Her working career began with the General Electric Plant in Jefferson, then Andover Industries and Pymatuning State Park. She then co-owned Boggs' Service Station in Williamsfield Township with her husband from 1968-88.
Mrs. Boggs was a member of the Dorset United Methodist Church, a charter member of Dorset United Methodist Women and a young adult leader at the church.
She was a star athlete in high school and a competitive bowler. When her children were growing up, she was a leader in Brownies, Girl Scouts, Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts and 4-H. Mrs. Boggs loved reading, traveling, sewing, quilting, gardening, playing cards and being with her family.
Survivors include her four children, Ross A. Boggs Jr. of Andover, Barbara E. Liczert of Medina, Robert J. Boggs of Roaming Shores and Ronald K. Boggs of Dorset Township; 12 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; three brothers, Victor Spencer of Westfork, Ark., John Spencer of Dorset Township and David Spencer of Easly, S.C.; and four sisters, Claudia Jewell of Dorset Township, Janet Smith of Conneaut, Joan Burns of Albion, Pa., and Sandra Hill of Andover.
She was preceded in death by her parents; husband in 1999; son, Richard L. Boggs, at age 4 in 1946; two sisters, Patty in infancy and Jean Brockett; and brother, Robert Spencer.
Service will be 11 a.m. Wednesday at Fleming Funeral Home Inc., 49 W. Jefferson St., Jefferson, with the Rev. David T. Hill of the First Congregational United Church of Christ officiating.
Burial will be in Dorset Cemetery.
Calling hours will be 5:30 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home.
Memorial contributions may be made to Ross Boggs Scholarship Fund, c/o Jefferson High School, 125 S. Poplar St., Jefferson, 44047; or to Dorset United Methodist Church Memorial Fund, P.O. Box 76, Dorset, 44032. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.


Robert A. Lahnan Sr.

WEST SPRINGFIELD, Pa. - Robert A. Lahnan Sr., 66, died Friday, Jan. 3, 2003, at his home.
He was born July 22, 1936, in Conneaut, a son of Laurie A. and Mary A. Gruzosky Lahnan.
Mr. Lahnan was part-owner of Springfield Plastics Inc. and worked at the former Parker White Metal Co. in Fairview, Pa., for 29 years.
He attended Springfield High School and served in the U.S. Marine Corps as a military police officer.
Mr. Lahnan was a member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church in Girard, Pa., and charter member of the Knights of Columbus, Pope John XXIII Council.
He was an avid sportsman and loved hunting and fishing. He also was a devout Cleveland Browns and Indians fan and was a supporter of high school athletics.
Survivors include his wife, Erika Prem Lahnan, whom he married Aug. 24, 1957, in Girard, Pa.; two daughters, Linda A. Lahnan of Baltimore and Lisa M. Sertz of West Springfield, Pa.; three sons, Robert A. Lahnan Jr. of East Springfield, Pa., Eric A. Lahnan of Cocoa, Fla., and Michael A. Lahnan of Conneaut; two sisters, Judith Diehl of West Springfield, Pa., and Mary Laureen "Connie" of Accra, Ghana, West Africa; two brothers, Lawrence Lahnan of Jefferson and Gerald Lahnan of West Springfield, Pa.; and eight grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents and brother Donald Lahnan.
Service will be 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at the Daniel R. Edder Funeral Home, 309 Main St. E., Girard, Pa.
Mass will follow at 11:30 a.m. at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, 101 Olin Ave., Girard, Pa. The Rev. Glenn Whitman will officiate.
Calling hours are 7 to 9 p.m. today and 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 Tuesday at the funeral home.
Burial will be in Springfield Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Ronald McDonald House, 500 Shady Ave., Pittsburgh, Pa. 15206-4438; Make-A-Wish Foundation of Pennsylvania, 2022 W. 38th St., Erie, Pa. 16508; or the Northwestern School district football and basketball boosters clubs.


Grace K. Mook

ASHTABULA — Grace K. Mook, 87, of Ashtabula died Tuesday, Dec. 3, 2002 in Madison Health Care, Madison.
She was born May 20, 1915 in Warren, the daughter of Charles and Gertrude Bowen.
Mrs. Mook was a lifelong resident and had worked in the accounting department of Carlisle-Allen Department Store for 25 years, retiring in 1980.
She was a member of the United Methodist Church in Conneaut.
Survivors include her daughters, Jane Bortz of Rome, and Kenna Carty of Clarence, Iowa; a son, Jack Mook of Florida; eight grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents; and sisters, Helen Neuhofs and Doris Shears.
Services to be announced at a later date.
Arrangements are being handled by Blessing Cremation Center, 9340 Pinecone Drive, Mentor.


Clair Bunnell

COCOA, FLA. ­ Clair I. Bunnell, 75, died Tuesday, Dec. 31, 2002, at Wuesthoff Hospital in Rockledge, Fla.
He was born July 9, 1927, in Conneaut, the son of James F. and Charlotte (Lewis) Bunnell. He came to Brevard County, Fla., from Tampa in 1963.
He was a veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps and a life member of the Order of the Moose in Cocoa, Fla. He was a two-term past president of the Brevard County Home Builder's Association, and was instrumental in building a majority of homes in Cocoa Beach, Fla.
An accomplished cabinet maker, Mr. Bunnell was an avid fisherman, hunter, camper and boater.
He is survived by his children, Catherine Bunnell of Orlando, Fla., Clair Michael Bunnell of Apopka, Fla., Robert Harry Bunnell of Melbourne, Fla., Cyndi Troutman of Snellville, Ga.; five grandsons; two brothers, Richard and Jim, of Conneaut; and loving companion, Ione York of Rockledge.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Memorial service will be 11 a.m. Monday at Central Community Church, Tucker Lane, Cocoa, Fla. Brevard Memorial Funeral Home, 5475 N. U.S. Highway 1, Cocoa, Fla., is handling arrangements.


William W. Cline

BEECH CREEK, W.Va. ­ William W. Cline, 78, of Beech Creek, W.Va., died Sunday, Dec. 29, 2002, at his home.
He was born Dec. 3, 1924, in Wharncliffe, W.Va., the son of Henry Madison and Mary (Hatfield) Cline.
A veteran of the U.S. Navy who served in World War II, Mr. Cline was retired from Elkem Metals. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and gardening.
Survivors include his wife, Alice Bannister Cline; three daughters, Brenda Curran of Sumterville, Fla., Thelma Sheppard of Danielson, Conn., Mary Ann Fortsch of Lake Pann, Fla.; two sons, William Cline Jr. of New Jersey and Kyle Cline of Bushnell, Fla.; three stepdaughters, Janice DiGiamco of Kingsville, Wendy Garnett of Conneaut and Bonnie Parks of Pennsylvania; five stepsons, Danny Garnett of Conneaut, Howard W. Bannister of Michigan, Everette "Rusty" Bannister of Georgia, Kirby Bannister of Alabama and Gregory Bannister of Delbarton, W.Va.; 35 grandchildren; 23 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; and a sister, Bertha Maynard of Tennessee.
He was preceded in death by his parents, first wife, Sylvia Kurtz Cline, his second wife, Pauline Cline, three brothers, Herbert Ferrell, Kyle Cline and Watkins Blankenship; two sisters, Bettie Evans and Dorothy Linkenhoker; and one stepdaughter, Linda Noble.
Memorial service will be 1 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 9 at the Fundamental Christian Church of Varney, W.Va., with the Rev. Okey Varney, the Rev. Ervin Francis and Elder Jimmy Maynard officiating.
Calling hours will be 6 to 9 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 8 at the Chafin Funeral Home, Delbarton, W.Va.


Ralph O. Mundkowsky

WEST SPRINGFIELD, Pa. - Ralph O. Mundkowsky, 83, of Ridge Road, died Tuesday, Dec. 31, 2002 at Fairview Manor, Pa., following a brief illness. He was born March 4, 1919 in Erie, Pa., a son of Julius and Blanche (Schaffer) Mundkowsky.
A West Springfield resident since age 4, he attended West Springfield High School. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army and served in the European Theater during World War II with the Second Armored Division "Hell on Wheels," which was the first Army unit to enter Berlin.
He was employed for 17 years as a brakeman with the New York Central Railroad and was a self-employed over the road truck driver for Town Square Foods. In the 10 years before he retired, his wife, Pearl, drove with him.
Mr. Mundkowsky was a member of West Springfield United Methodist Church. He was an avid gardener and enjoyed woodworking, traveling, camping and his family.
Survivors include his wife, Pearl E. (Wilcox), whom he married Dec. 18, 1940,; two daughters, Nancy Shorts of Townville, Pa. and Becky Connors of San Mateo, Fla.; two sons, David of West Springfield, Pa. and Ralph of Whittier, N.C.; his sister, Myrtle Thompson of Denison, Texas, 14 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandson.
He was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers, Clarence and Duane, and Cleon in infancy; a grandson, Justin, and twin great-granddaughters, Jane and Ivah Benjamin.
Service is 4 p.m. Saturday at the West Springfield United Methodist Church with the Rev. Robert Klinger, officiating.
Family calling hours will be Friday at the Marcy Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 208 Liberty St., Conneaut.
Burial will be in East Springfield Cemetery, East Springfield, Pa.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Springfield Rescue Squad or to the West County Paramedics. Envelopes will be available at the church and funeral home.


Sally A. Wagner

JEFFERSON - Sally A. Wagner, 74, of West Ashtabula Street, died Tuesday, Dec. 31, 2002, at the home of her daughter in Jefferson Township following a short illness.
She was born Aug. 27, 1928 in Manhattan, N.Y., the daughter of Joseph and Ellen (Grant) Harkins, and moved to Ohio in 1954 from Queens, N.Y. and to Jefferson in 1968 from the Mentor area.
For more than 20 years, Mrs. Wagner has been a self-employed independent title examiner. She previously worked as a secretary for nine years for W. J. Pecsok Associates. She was a member of St. Joseph Calasanctius Church, the Altar and Rosary Society and the Ladies Auxiliary of Veterans of Foreign Wars. She enjoyed baking, cooking and being with her family and friends.
Survivors include one daughter, Sally V. "Roni" Cotton; three sons, Henry W. Wagner, Steven E. Wagner and Daniel J. Wagner, all of Jefferson; two stepdaughters, Donna Witt of Conneaut and Debra Vincent of Lincolnton, N.C.; 11 grandchildren, one sister, Mary Paton of Charlottesville, Va.; two brothers, J. Steven Harkins of Wellslee, Mass. and John L. Harkins of Hicksville, N.Y.; and two great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Henry E. Wagner in 1976, a sister, Evelyn Killeen and three brothers, Patrick, William and Edward Harkins.

The funeral mass will be at 11 a.m. Saturday at St. Joseph Calasanctius Church, 32 E. Jefferson St., Jefferson, with retired pastor, the Rev. Fr. Arthur King and the Rev. Fr. Stephen Wassie, officiating.

Calling hours are 3 to 5 and 7 to 9 p.m. Friday at the Fleming Funeral Home, Inc., 49 W. Jefferson St., Jefferson, with a prayer service at 8:45 p.m.

Memorial contributions may be made to the St. Joseph Calasanctius Church Memorial Fund, 32 E. Jefferson St., Jefferson OH 44047. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.  Burial will be in Oakdale Cemetery.


Viola M. Meede

FAIRVIEW, Pa. - Viola Mallory Meeder, 93, of Fairview Manor Nursing Home and formerly of 11 South Park Row, Girard, Pa., died Monday, Dec. 30, 2002, at her residence.
She was born Oct. 21, 1909, in Conneaut, to Clayton and Minnie Day Mallory.
Mrs. Meeder was the retired owner of H.J. Meeder General Electric TV and Appliance Store in Lake City, Pa.
She was a member of Lake City United Methodist Church where she was a member of the Women's Society. She was also a member of the Girard Chapter 84 Order of the Eastern Star and the West County Historical Association. She was active at the Erie Senior Day Center, the West County 65'ers and the XYZ Club.
Survivors include sons Robert Meeder of Lake City, Pa., Richard Meeder of Girard, Pa. and Donald Meeder of Waterford, Pa.; 15 grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by husband Hallam J. Meeder, sister Nina Woodworth and brothers Frank Mallory, Francis Mallory and Loren Mallory.
Service is at the family's convenience Friday at the Burton Funeral Home, 525 Main St. East, Girard, Pa. Burial is in Girard Cemetery.
Calling hours are 2 to 4 and 7to 9 p.m. Thursday, at the funeral home.
Memorial donations may be made to Lake City United Methodist Church, 10087 Sampson Ave., Lake City, Pa. 16423.


William R. Ramey Sr.

EDINBORO, Pa. — William Ralph Ramey Sr., 63, of Route 98, died Friday, Jan, 24, 2003 at his home. He was born Aug. 21, 1939 in Sudith, Ky., the son of Hiram and Sissie Ramey.
Mr. Ramey had lived in Edinboro for the past 23 years, having moved there from Lake City, Pa. He was employed at Engineer Plastics as a press operator. He enjoyed spending time with relatives and drag racing.
Survivors include two daughters, Denise and Sylvia Ramey, both of Edinboro; two sons, William Ralph Ramey, Jr. and Paul Ramey, both of Edinboro; two sisters, Essie Webber and Bessie Lago, both of West Springfield, Pa.; a brother, Kenneth Ramey of Conneaut; and several grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers, Edward, Rex and Harold Ramey; and a sister, Lucille.
Service will be 11 a.m. Tuesday at the Marcy Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 208 Liberty St., Conneaut, with the Rev. Raymond L. Lamb, pastor of the Conneaut Church of God, officiating.
Calling hours are 10 a.m. until the service Tuesday at the funeral home. Mr. Ramey requested memorial contributions be made to the family. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.
Burial will be in East Springfield Cemetery in East Springfield, Pa..


Donald M. Hicks

VERO BEACH, Fla. - Donald M. Hicks, 90, formerly of Conneaut, died Saturday, Jan. 25, 2003, at Integrated Health Services after a prolonged illness.
Mr. Hicks was born Aug. 26, 1912, in Conneaut, the son of Henry and Grace (Dowd) Hicks. He moved to Vero Beach in 1986.
He retired from Allied Resinous and the Astatic Corp. in Conneaut. An accomplished musician, he was a lifetime member of the American Federation of Musicians.
Survivors include his two sons, John and Darryl Hicks; two grandsons, Craig Hicks of New Kensington, Pa., and Brian Hicks of Hilliard; and five great-grandchildren, Logan, Ariel and Chelsea Hicks of New Kensington, Pa., and Hannah and Jacob Hicks of Hilliard; and a sister, Thelma Bushnell of Butler, Pa.
He was preceded in death by his wife of 65 years, Zelma, in January 2000; four sisters; three brothers; and his parents.
A private service will be held at the convenience of the family, with the Rev. Norman Pavey of the Community Church officiating. Burial will be at Hillcrest Cemetery in Fort Pierce, Fla.
Arrangements are being handled by the Cox-Gifford Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 1950 20th St., Vero Beach, FL 32960.
At the family's request, donations may be made to a charity of one's choice.


Vernon N. Jarvi

CONNEAUT - Vernon N. Jarvi Sr., 76, of High Street, died Saturday, Jan. 25, 2003, in Hamot Medical Center, in Erie, Pa.
Mr. Jarvi was born May 25, 1926, in Conneaut, the son of Antti and Hilda (Kauppi) Ranianjarvi. He lived in Conneaut and the Monroe Township area for most of his life. He also lived in East Springfield, Pa., for 10 years.
Mr. Jarvi was employed by the former Nickel Plate and N&W railroads for 20 years, as a surveyor with the Division of Engineers. He retired from the Conneaut Base Plant, General Electric Co., as a machine operator after 20 years of service.
He was a member of the First United Methodist Church. He also was a member of American Legion Cowle Post 151, where he served as former vice commander and was active on the drill squad.
He was a veteran of the U.S. Army, serving with the 4th Infantry Division during World War II. He was awarded the Purple Heart, which he received for his service in the Black Forest in Prum, Germany.
Mr. Jarvi received a football scholarship to Miami University (Ohio) and played for Coach Sid Gilman. In his leisure time, he enjoyed golfing, swimming, fishing and gardening. In his younger years, he enjoyed playing baseball for the Harold Shiley Springfield baseball team.
Survivors include his wife, Mary Jane (Patterson), to whom he had been married for 53 years; a daughter, Margaret R. Jarvi of Conneaut; three sons, Vernon N. Jarvi Jr. of Klamath Falls, Ore., Eric H. Jarvi of Marionville, Pa., and Matthew M. Jarvi of West Springfield, Pa.; two grandsons, Benjamin and Michael Jarvi; three sisters, Viola Twichell of Ashtabula, Ruth Linwood of Sandusky, and Leah Kliemo of Conneaut.
He was preceded in death by his parents; four brothers, Ralph, Oliver, Fred and Edward; three sisters, Sylvia Kantola, Martha Roboeski and Katherine Schlaich.
Service is 11 a.m. Wednesday at the Thompson-Smith Funeral Home, 345 Main St., Conneaut, with the Rev. Raymond Thomas officiating.
His remains will be cremated and buried at a later date.
Calling are 2 to 4 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Conneaut Local Youth Organization. Envelopes are available at the funeral home.


Sister Mary Cagnazzo

ROME, Italy - Sister Mary Augustina Cagnazzo, 79, of the Oblate Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, died Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2003, in Rome.
She was born July 19, 1923, in Foggia, Italy, the daughter of Paolo and Concetta (DelliCari) Cagnazzo.
She entered the Oblate Sisters Oct. 12, 1942, and professed her final vows Jan. 24, 1950. She served more than 60 years in religious life.
Sister Augustina came to the United States in 1949. She taught at Our Lady of Perpetual Help School in McDonald from 1952 to 1954; St. Edward School in Youngstown from 1955 to 1959; St. Anthony School in Youngstown, both as principal and teacher, from 1959 to 1972, St. Frances Cabrini School in Conneaut from 1972 to 1973. She was stationed in Toronto, both as a local superior and administrator of a day-care center, from 1973 to 1975.
In July 1975, Sister Augustina was elected general superior of her order, whose headquarters is in Rome. She was elected for a second term in 1981.
After completing her term, Sister Augustina returned to the Youngstown Diocese, where she was both principal and teacher of St. Frances Cabrini School in Conneaut from 1987 to 1990. She was assigned to Emmaus House, the diocesan priests' retirement home, from 1990 to 1993.
She was superior of Villa Maria Teresa convent in Hubbard from 1993 to 1999, as well as principal of St. Anthony School, Youngstown, a second time, from 1994 to 1996. She returned to Rome in 1999 and served in the hospitality ministry of the congregation.
Survivors include her three brothers, Giuseppe, Luigi and Salvatore; and two sisters, Michelina and Assunta, all of Foggia, Italy.
She was preceded in death by her parents; and a sister, Felicita.
A memorial Mass will be celebrated at 6:30 p.m. Thursday at St. Frances Cabrini Church in Conneaut, with the Rev. Raymond Thomas officiating.
She was buried Jan. 16 in Rome.
Memorial contributions may be made to Priest Retirement Fund of Villa Maria Teresa, 50 Warner Road, Hubbard, 44425.
Envelopes are available at St. Frances Cabrini Church or the Raisian Family Funeral Home, 581 Harbor St., Conneaut.


Bryan A. Rood

DORSET - Bryan Anthony Rood was stillborn Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2003, at UPMC Horizon Hospital in Greenville, Pa.
He was the son of Robert C. Rood and Kalley M. Cotton.
Survivors include his parents; grandparents, Donald Rood of Conneaut and Patricia Mampel of Ashtabula, and David and Carla Cotton of Dorset; great-grandparents, Clark and Barbara Rood of Sheffield, Robert Patterson of Jefferson and Mary Patterson of Dorset, Harry Longenecker of Cherry Valley Township, Kenneth Cotton of Cherry Valley Township; and great-great-grandmother, Mary Ratliff of Ashtabula.
He was preceded in death by his great-grandmothers, Elizabeth Cotton and Elizabeth Longenecker.
Private services will take place at the family's convenience.
Burial will be in Roselawn Memorial Gardens in Meadville, Pa.
Arrangements were handled by Baumgardner Funeral Home, 134 Prospect St., Andover.
Memorial contributions may be made to the family


Marlyn E. Best

PIERPONT TOWNSHIP - Marlyn E. "Nick" Best, 65, of Route 167 West, died Thursday, Jan. 30, 2003, at home.
Born July 26, 1937, in Clarion, Pa., he was the son of Edward and Frances (Swartz) Best and has been a resident of Pierpont for the past 30 years, having moved from Conneaut.
Mr. Best was employed by Molded Fiber Glass of Ashtabula for more than 25 years, retiring in 2002.
He was a member of East Side Presbyterian Church of Ashtabula. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, country and western music, watching football, stock car racing, collecting hats and steins and being with his family.
Survivors include his wife, Charlotte V. (Cobb) of Pierpont, whom he married Aug. 23, 1975, in Pierpont; 12 children, Marlyn Best Jr., Frances Gibbons, William Wrisley, Fawn Nagle, all of Conneaut; Carol Hutzell, Dina Cockrell, both of Kingsville; Mona Roerdanz of Ashtabula, David Best of Gilbert, S.C., Cheryl Durden of Swansea, S.C., Holly Postupack of West Springfield, Pa., Dale Best of Cayce, S.C., and Sue Penulaz of San Antonio, Texas; 22 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; three sisters, Karen of Ripley, N.Y., Kathy of California, and Silvia of Essex, Md.; seven brothers, Keith of Pennsylvania, Lloyd and Gayland, both of North East, Pa., Bob and Roland, both of Ripley, N.Y., Paul of Waterford, Pa. and Reggie of Buffalo, N.Y.
He was proceeded in death by his parents; son, Edward Wrisley; sister, Linda; brothers, Clide and Larry in infancy and one grandson, Terry Moore.
Visitation is from 1 to 3 p.m. Sunday at Childs & Williams Family Funeral Home, 96 Route 7, Pierpont. Burial will be in Evergreen Cemetery, Pierpont at the convenience of the family.
No service will take place at Mr. Best's request.
Memorials may be made to the family and envelopes will be available at the funeral home.


Pauline R. Hartman

FREDERICK, Md. - Pauline (Rumpf) Hartman, 91, died Friday, Jan. 31, 2003, at Frederick Memorial Hospital.
She was born Dec. 22, 1911, in Pine Grove, Pa., the daughter of Peter C. and Annie V. (Wenrich) Rumpf.
Mrs. Hartman was educated in the Derry Township (Hershey, Pa.) school system and graduated with honors in 1929. She worked in Pennsylvania as a licensed practical nurse and as a children's librarian.
She and her husband, Merle H. Hartman, owned and operated Hartman's CutRate Variety and Fountain Store in Palmyra, Pa., for 20 years. After retirement and moving to Maryland, she was active in the Rainbow Bells Senior Center quilting groups and 4-H.
She traveled with bus groups across the country. Mrs. Hartman was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star, Chapter 79; Mount Pleasant Evangelical Reformed United Church of Christ; and was former member of the United Fire Company Auxiliary.
She loved flowers and gardening.
Survivors include her son, Robert M. Hartman of Frederick, Md.; six grandchildren, Ann Marie Hartman of New Orleans, Joy E. Hartman of Medford, Jon P. Hartman of North Carolina, Michael P. Hartman of Rochester, N.Y., Peter J. Hartman of Ashland, Va., and Maryann E. Hartman of Ranson, W.Va.; six great-grandchildren; a great-great-grandson; and a brother, Leonard J. Rumpf of Hummelstown, Pa., and a daughter-in-law, Virginia Hartman of Conneaut.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, in 1968; a son, Frederic L. Hartman; a sister, Gladys Drawbaugh; and a brother, Karl R. Hartman.
Service is 11 a.m. Thursday at Robert E. Dailey and Son Funeral Homes, 1201 N. Market St., Frederick, Md. The Rev. Donna Sharp of Mount Pleasant Evangelical Reformed United Church of Christ will officiate.
Calling hours are 9 to 11 a.m. Thursday at the funeral home.
Burial will be in Gravel Hill Cemetery, Palmyra, Pa.


Dorothy A. Lehto

SAYBROOK TOWNSHIP - Dorothy A. Lehto, 79, of Sanborn Road, died Wednesday, Feb. 5, 2003, at her home.
She was born Nov., 19, 1923 in Ashtabula, the daughter of Capt. James and Selma (Herttua) Diamond.
Mrs. Lehto was a lifelong resident of Ashtabula and graduated from Harbor High School in 1941.
She married Oliver E. Jan. 28, 1943 and was a homemaker.
Mrs. Lehto was a member of Bethany Lutheran Church and enjoyed baking, cooking and getting together with her high school classmates.
She enjoyed taking care of others, including the animals.
Survivors include her husband, Oliver; and three children, Barry of Salt Lake City, Michael of Cleveland and Kathleen Kister of Conneaut.
She was preceded in death by her parents; and a brother, James Diamond.
Services will be 3 p.m. today at Bethany Lutheran Church, 933 Michigan Ave., Ashtabula, with the Rev. Richard Bowen officiating.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Bethany Lutheran Church or to Hospice of Ashtabula County.
Envelopes will be available at the church.
The Ross-Billman Funeral Home, 526 Prospect Road, Ashtabula is handling arrangements.


Danny L. Tilson

 ASHTABULA - Danny L. Tilson, 57, of North Ridge Road West, died Monday, Jan. 13, 2003, at University Hospital of Cleveland.
He was born June 18, 1945, in Beckley W.Va., to Dewey L. and Helen I. (Lester) Tilson.
He married Cindy McElroy Sept. 30, 2000.
Mr. Tilson was a foreman at Neff-Perkins in Perry for 16 years.
He was a member of New Life Assembly of God, Geneva.
Mr. Tilson enjoyed fishing, motorcycling and four-wheeling. He was an animal and nature lover.
Survivors include his wife; daughters Tammy Cantrell of Conneaut, DeNette Lea Paul of Marietta, Ga., and DeAnna Deanne Zeigler of Waldorf, Md.; stepdaughters Angela Arnett of Kingsville and Jeanna Arnett of Painesville; stepson Gilbert Arnett of Buckhannon, W.Va.; grandchildren Tiffany, Sophia, TeAnna, David, Ayla, Billy, Aryelle and Gabrielle; one great-grandchild; brothers Rocky of Austinburg, David of Geneva and Michael of Huntington, W.Va.; and sisters Brenda Lester of LaFayette, Tenn. and Wanda Cagle of Perry.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Funeral is 11 a.m. Friday at the Donald E. Walker Funeral Home, 828 Sherman St., Geneva, officiated by the Rev. Harry Pischura of New Life Assembly of God of Geneva. Burial is in Mechanicsville Cemetery, Austinburg.
Calling hours are 7 to 9 p.m. Thursday at the funeral home.
Memorial contributions may be made to the family. Envelopes available at the funeral home.


Delmar Blankenship

ASHTABULA - Delmar Blankenship, 65, of Joseph Avenue, died Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2003, at the Ashtabula County Medical Center.
He was born Sept. 13, 1937, in McDowell, Ky., the son of Gobal and Virgie (Gayheart) Blankenship.
He worked at Koski Construction Co.
Mr. Blankenship enjoyed visiting Markko Vineyard in Conneaut, playing the lottery, working on cars, sailing the Great Lakes and spending time with his grandchildren.
Survivors include a son, Glennin "Dale" Tackett of Ashtabula; three daughters, Janice Nesbitt of Jefferson and Debbie Chaplin and Cheryl Blankenship, both of Ashtabula; seven grandchildren; and a sister, Carol Mull of Florida.
Mr. Blankenship was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Hargis Blankenship; and four sisters, Marsela Hatfield, Sally Benton, Zola Blankenship and Vivian Murphy.
There will be no funeral service or calling hours at Mr. Blankenship's request.
The Donald E. Walker Funeral Home, 828 Sherman St., Geneva, is handling arrangements.


Norman J. Reynolds

MADISON — Norman J. Reynolds, 50, died Friday, Jan. 17, 2003 at his residence. He was born June 24, 1952 in Painesville, the son of Rolland and Ida (Belfi) Reynolds.
He lived in Madison for three months, moving from Painesville.
Mr. Reynolds was a dye maker at Pilot Run Stamping in Mentor. He belonged to Painesville Assembly of God Church, North America Hunts Club and the National Rifle Association.
He had served in the United States Marine Corps.
Survivors include his wife, Susan (Todd) Reynolds; four daughters, Laura Reho, Sharon Reynolds, Denise Reynolds and Michele Reynolds, all of Madison; a son Norman J. Reynolds, Jr. of Madison, two stepdaughters, Stacy Dezendorf of Andover and Vicky Cameron of Painesville; five stepsons, Bradley Cameron of Conneaut, David Cameron of Ashtabula, Jeff Cameron of Ashtabula, Steven Cameron of North Carolina and Greg Cameron of Jefferson; a brother, Jerry Reynolds of Painesville; a half brother, Roland Reynolds of West Virginia; two sisters, Beverly Ede of Painesville and Hazel Stone of Perry; and 23 grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Service is 11 a.m. Wednesday at Painesville Assembly of God Church, 10949 Johnnycake Ridge Road, Painesville.
Calling hours are 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. Tuesday at the Potty Funeral Home, 1009 Mentor Ave., Painesville.
Burial will be in Perry Cemetery.