Home / Newsletters / Ohio / Summit County / March 12, 2025

🌸 Cherry blossom buzz

Summit County • March 12, 2025

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Good morning, Summit County. Pink clouds of Japanese cherry blossoms will soon transform downtown Akron into a scene worthy of a travel magazine. The fifth annual Sakura Festival returns April 5, bringing with it over 50 vendors, cultural performances, and tea tastings to celebrate the 472 cherry trees that have become a springtime tradition since 2011. Last year's festival drew 8,000 visitors to the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail—a testament to how this fleeting natural wonder has blossomed into one of our community's most anticipated cultural celebrations.

As one local landmark prepares to shine, another awaits reinvention. The decommissioned Innerbelt highway—once a symbol of top-down urban planning—is now the canvas for a community-driven transformation, with residents invited to share their vision at an open house on March 18. Meanwhile, the historic Goodyear Theater has completed its own remarkable journey, with the 1920s-era auditorium now restored to its former glory after significant renovations. From cherry blossoms to cherished architecture, Summit County's landscape continues to evolve while honoring its roots.

🌤 Sky Skoop

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☕️ What's Brewing Locally

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🌸 Cherry blossoms return to downtown Akron for fifth annual festival. The Downtown Akron Sakura Festival will transform the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail on April 5, 2025, from 1-7pm, celebrating Japanese culture and the 472 cherry trees planted in 2011-2012. Last year's event attracted 8,000 visitors, and this year promises over 50 vendors, performances, Japanese folk games, tea tastings, and various cultural activities. Though the cherry blossoms' brief bloom is unpredictable, the festival will proceed rain or shine, honoring the partnership between the Japanese Association of Northeast Ohio and the city.

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🏙️ Akron invites residents to shape the future of its Innerbelt. The city is hosting an open house on March 18 to gather community input on goals and ideas for the decommissioned highway. Unlike the top-down approach of the 1960s, Mayor Malik emphasizes collaborative decision-making through "deep listening and dialogue" with residents. The planning team, led by design firm Sasaki, will work alongside community members to develop priorities rather than presenting a finished plan. A recent $10 million federal grant will support the transformation of this space into something that acknowledges its harmful history.

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🎭 Akron's historic Goodyear Theater roars back to life after renovation. Originally built in 1920 for Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company employees, this impressive auditorium once seated 1,686 people. The theater is part of the larger Goodyear Hall complex, which includes a bank, gymnasium, and various offices. After undergoing significant structural improvements in 2017 during the East End redevelopment project, this piece of Akron history has been restored to its former glory. Located at 1201 E Market St, the venue now hosts regular performances that can be found on their website.

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🏡 Real Estate Reveals

Real estate listing image Modern Remodel Spacious Outdoor Living: Priced at $269,900, this newly remodeled home boasts vaulted ceilings, open floor plan, brand new kitchen and bath features, and waterproof vinyl flooring throughout, plus a patio enclosure and walkout deck.
Real estate listing image Dream Home Backyard Relaxation Oasis: Priced at $311,000, this dream home features a cozy fireplace, natural color palette, walk-in closet, flexible living spaces, and a fenced backyard with sitting area for outdoor relaxation.
Real estate listing image Updated home near woods: This $265,000 split-level home in Aurora Shores offers 3 bedrooms, 2 baths across 1,628 square feet, featuring a recently updated roof, new flooring throughout, and a renovated lower-level bathroom, all on a wooded .30-acre lot.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🎭 Mar. 12 - Screams of Sanity: Brace yourself for an unforgettable night as Screams of Sanity rocks The Rialto Theatre on March 12! Catch this electrifying performance at 7:00 PM on Kenmore Blvd in Akron.
🍽️ Mar. 12 - Akron Food Works Tour: Curious about food entrepreneurship? Stop by 647 Coffee on March 12 for Akron Food Works' Info Session where you'll discover how they support local food businesses and tour their commercial kitchen space.
🎸 Mar. 13 - Kindred Valley/QUITR: Catch the soulful sounds of Kindred Valley as they blend Americana, Indie Folk, and Appalachian roots at The Rialto Theatre on March 13. This West Virginia band shares personal stories through captivating melodies.
🍛 Mar. 13 - DC Curry Comedy Night: Laugh until your sides hurt with DC Curry at Edwin J. Thomas Performing Arts Hall! Join the comedy sensation on Thursday, March 13 at 7:30 PM for an unforgettable night of hilarity in Akron.
🍁 Mar. 15 - Maple Sugar & Pancake Festival: Indulge in a sweet spring tradition at the Maple Sugar Festival and Pancake Breakfast on March 15! Savor fresh maple treats as the sap flows at 2686 Oak Hill Rd in Akron.
👩‍💼 Mar. 15 - Women Who Shaped Summit: Celebrate remarkable women at the Inclusion & Belonging Committee's Women Who Shaped Summit County event! Join this Women's History Month celebration on March 15, 9-10am at Green's Central Administration Building.
🎭 Mar. 15 - Jon Reep Comedy Show: Laugh 'til it hurts with comedian Jon Reep at E.J. Thomas Hall in Akron! Catch his hilarious performance on March 15 at 7:30 PM for an evening of non-stop entertainment.
🍁 Mar. 16 - Maple Sugar & Pancake Festival: Indulge in a sweet springtime tradition at the Maple Sugar Festival and Pancake Breakfast on March 16! Savor fresh maple treats as winter thaws at 2686 Oak Hill Rd in Akron.

🙏 In Remembrance

Patricia Ann "Patty" Deatsch

Patricia Ann "Patty" Deatsch, 68, of Twinsburg, passed away on March 6, 2025. She was preceded in death by her husband Robert C. Deatsch, and her parents Robert and Ann Marie Van de Motter. Patty is survived by her sons Jeffrey and Christopher Ridgeway, grandchildren Benjamin and Kaylie Ridgeway, and her three brothers along with numerous nieces and nephews. Memorial contributions may be made to the St. Vincent de Paul Society, with funeral arrangements being handled by Johnson-Romito Funeral Home in Twinsburg.

Patricia Ann Patty Deatsch

Robert "Big Al" Cruse

Robert Alan "Al, Big Al" Cruse, 56, of Akron, passed away unexpectedly at home on February 27, 2025. Born in Akron on March 21, 1968, to Gloria L. Cruse and Frederick Alan Keys, he worked in various fields including landscaping, building maintenance, and farming throughout Ohio and the United States. An avid deer hunter, fisherman, and Ohio State Buckeyes fan, Alan is survived by his mother, sister, son, step-children, and numerous other relatives. Services will be held on March 15, 2025, at Newcomer Funeral Home, followed by a Celebration of Life Ceremony at The Coventry Township Community Center.

Robert Big Al Cruse

Doris Marie Maple

Doris Marie Maple passed away on March 9, 2025, at the age of 92. Born in Akron in 1932 to Steven and Ethel Camp, she was known for her immaculate home and well-maintained lawn. She was predeceased by her husband Dean, her son Scott, and her parents. Doris is survived by her daughter Kathy, sons Dean and David, four grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren, with private family services arranged through Adams Mason Funeral Home.

Doris Marie Maple

Thomas Michael Busby

Thomas Michael Busby, an 85-year-old resident of Massillon, Ohio, passed away on March 1, 2025. His cremation arrangements are being handled by Summit Simple Cremation, located in Uniontown, Ohio. No additional information about his life, family members, or memorial services was provided in this brief death notice. The facility handling his remains is situated at 3755 Boettler Oaks Drive, Suite E2.

Elvira B McGuinness

Elvira "Elvy" McGuinness, 90, of Wadsworth, Ohio, passed away on March 9, 2025, reuniting with her beloved husband Leo after their 62-year marriage. Born December 26, 1934, in Barberton, Ohio, she is survived by her 11 children, numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Elvy was a devoted parishioner at Visitation of Mary Church, where she served as a Eucharistic Minister and loved to sing during mass. She was a talented seamstress, business assistant to her husband, and dedicated 17 years as a volunteer usher at Cleveland Playhouse Square, always maintaining her strong faith and gratitude throughout her life.

Elvira B McGuinness

Elizabeth Anne Clark

Elizabeth Anne Clark died on March 9, 2025, preceded in death by her husband Robert and sister Jane. Born in 1938 in Norwalk, OH, she is survived by her three children, five grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, and extended family. A graduate of Clearview High School who attended Kent State University, she owned a floral design shop called "Creations by Elizabeth Clark." Elizabeth was actively involved in Kent United Church of Christ, The Women's Club of Kent, Kent Coterie, and various art organizations, winning many awards for her creative talents over the years.

Elizabeth Anne Clark

Victoria Lynn Hardy

Victoria Lynn Hardy, 70, passed away on March 7 after a long battle with dementia, surrounded by her family. A graduate of Akron University with a nursing degree, she dedicated 32 years to working as a neonatal nurse at Akron Children's Hospital, including participating in helicopter rescues of premature babies in remote areas. Known for her entertaining skills, stylish taste, and love of nature, particularly the ocean, Victoria maintained her kindness and grace throughout her illness. She is survived by her mother, husband, daughter, siblings, and extended family, with the family requesting donations to the Alzheimer's Association in lieu of flowers.

Victoria Lynn Hardy

Janice Israel

Janice Israel (Jackie Treat), 81, passed away on March 8, 2025, after a short illness. Born in Coshocton, Ohio in 1943, she retired as a legal secretary from Buckingham, Dolittle and Burrows after over 30 years of service. Janice was an active member of Falls Creek Church and several organizations, including The Red Hats and The Greater Akron Legal Secretaries. She is survived by her husband Jeffrey, daughter Jeniece, grandchildren, siblings, and extended family, who will remember her for her devotion to family and friends.

Janice Israel

Aniello "Neal" Lettieri

Aniello "Neal" Lettieri, 81, of Streetsboro, passed away on March 7, 2025, leaving behind his wife of 57 years, Kathy, his two children, and seven grandchildren. Born in Roccarainola, Italy, Neal developed a lifelong love of gardening on his family farm before immigrating to the United States in the 1960s, where he worked as a candy-maker, taxi driver, mechanic, and eventually a used car salesman for 30 years. After retiring, Neal and Kathy moved to Ohio to be near family, where he continued his passion for gardening, attended his grandchildren's sporting events, and participated in the community. Neal will be remembered for his strong work ethic, warm hospitality, ready smile, and willingness to help others.

Aniello Neal Lettieri

Kim Garrison

Kim Garrison, 69, passed away peacefully on March 6th, 2025, surrounded by family. A native of Athens, Ohio and Ohio State University graduate, she was known for her quick wit with puzzles and games, as well as her warmth and support for her family. Kim is survived by her parents, husband Rod, two sisters, two sons and their wives, and five beloved grandchildren, while being preceded in death by her sister Barb and brother Todd. A celebration of life will be held on March 22nd at the Courtyards on Hyland Run Clubhouse in Plain City, Ohio.

Kim Garrison

Margaret J. Marting

Margaret J. Marting, 93, passed away on March 7, 2025 after a brief illness, leaving behind four children, nine grandchildren, and two brothers. Born in Hamilton, Ohio, she married her childhood friend Thomas Marting, who preceded her in death after over fifty years of marriage. Margaret had an impressive nursing career, working during the polio epidemic, serving as a surgical nurse, and establishing nursing programs before retiring to raise her family. She was an active member of The Chapel and Gideons International Auxiliary, hosting weekly Bible studies and dedicating herself to her Christian faith until her death.

Margaret J. Marting

Linda Sue Boso

Linda Sue Boso, born on November 26, 1955 in Akron to Harold and Ruby Sams, passed away on March 8, 2025 at the age of 69. She was known for her generous and selfless nature, always prioritizing the care of others before herself. Linda cherished family gatherings, holidays, and enjoyed camping, boating, traveling, and collecting pig figurines. She is survived by her four children, eight grandchildren, one great-grandchild, and numerous family members and friends, while being preceded in death by her parents and brother Dennis.

Linda Sue Boso

Constance Nicholette Volosen

Constance N. Volosen, 71, passed away on March 5, 2025, at Cleveland Clinic Akron General. Born in Akron on December 14, 1953, she spent her entire life in the area, working as a dietician at various institutions until her retirement from Akron Children's Hospital in January 2022. She married David Bayus in 2008 and is survived by her husband, her brother John, and David's children Lindsey, David Brian, and James. A funeral Mass will be held on March 15, 2025, at Queen of Heaven Catholic Church, with donations directed to Stewart's Caring Place in lieu of flowers.

Constance Nicholette Volosen

Joellen Kay Wade

Joellen Kay Wade, 72, passed away on March 6, 2025, after battling cancer. Born in Mansfield, Ohio in 1952, she was known for being caring, thoughtful, happy, and positive, with a love for animals and a stylish sense of fashion. Jo enjoyed collecting dragons, drawing, crafting, and thrift shopping in her free time. She is survived by her daughter Angela, four granddaughters and a grandson, and four brothers, while being preceded in death by her parents and sister Gayle.

Joellen Kay Wade

Linda Ann Douglas

Linda Ann Douglas, a 75-year-old resident of Dalton, Ohio, passed away on February 27, 2025. Her cremation arrangements are being handled by Summit Simple Cremation, located in Uniontown, Ohio. The facility is specifically situated at 3755 Boettler Oaks Drive #E2, with postal code 44685. No further details about her life, family, or services were provided in the brief obituary notice.

Nicholas Patrick Lozowy

Nicholas Patrick Lozowy, 52, passed away unexpectedly on March 6, 2025, in Sagamore Hills. A graduate of Cuyahoga Falls High School and Hiram College, Nick served six years in the US Navy Reserve as a SeaBee Builder and spent his career as a business and software consultant, most recently with Terillium. Nick was known for his adventurous spirit, enjoying outdoor activities like kayaking and mountain biking, but above all, he cherished his family and was always ready to help others without expecting anything in return. He is survived by his two sons, mother, stepmother, numerous siblings, and extended family, who will remember his legacy of love, selflessness, and wisdom.

Nicholas Patrick Lozowy

Stuart Phillip Davis

Stuart Phillip Davis, 64, of Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, passed away on March 4, 2025. His cremation services are being handled by Summit Simple Cremation, located at 3755 Boettler Oaks Drive #E2 in Uniontown, Ohio 44685. No further details about his life, family, or cause of death were provided in the brief obituary notice. The announcement contains only essential information regarding his identity and final arrangements.

Joanne Elizabeth Gordon

Joanne Elizabeth Gordon, a lifelong Youngstown resident who worked 30 years in hospital housekeeping, died peacefully on March 9, 2025, at age 81. Known for her kindness, wit, and free spirit, she enjoyed gardening, baking, crocheting, and especially loved her dogs and making Christmas special for her family. Joanne was preceded in death by her husband Charles and daughter Cassandra, and is survived by four children, 13 grandchildren, and 23 great-grandchildren. In lieu of services, she requested donations to local animal charities in her memory.

Joanne Elizabeth Gordon

Irene Evelyn Reynolds

Irene Evelyn Reynolds, born June 16, 1925, in Barberton, Ohio, passed away on March 6, 2025. She was a devoted wife to Samuel John, mother to four children, and a lifelong member of St. Augustine Catholic Church. Her family remembers her for her wisdom and caring guidance that provided a foundation for their lives. Irene is survived by her daughter, three sons, five grandchildren, and five great-granddaughters, while being preceded in death by her parents and husband.

Irene Evelyn Reynolds

Sheldon "Butch" Barlette, Jr.

Sheldon "Butch" Barlette, Jr., 78, passed away on March 7, 2025, after battling cancer, surrounded by his family. A graduate of The University of Akron and veteran who served as a Captain in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Sheldon worked for Acme Fresh Market for 35 years before starting his own business. He was known for his generosity, love of sports, and devotion to family and friends. Sheldon is survived by his wife of 58 years, Phyllis, his children, grandchildren, great-granddaughter, and siblings, with memorial services scheduled for March 20, 2025.

Sheldon Butch Barlette, Jr.

Mildred Tobey Ham

The obituary is brief, only mentioning that Mildred Tobey Ham, 92, of Clinton, Ohio, passed away on March 7, 2025. Her body was cremated by Summit Simple Cremation, located at 3755 Boettler Oaks Drive #E2 in Uniontown, Ohio. No information is provided about her life, family, or funeral services beyond the cremation details. This is a minimal death notice rather than a detailed obituary.

Robert M. Rider

Robert M. Rider, 72, of Montgomery, West Virginia, died on March 2, 2025, from heart failure. He was a disabled Marine veteran, retired Ford Assembly plant worker, and self-proclaimed comedian who lived most of his life in the Akron area. His true passion was music, having played drums and performed with bands Sagecoach and Marshall Law for over 30 years combined. He is survived by his wife Yvonne, five children, eleven grandchildren, and his brother Edward, with cremation and a celebration of life ceremony planned for April 6, 2025, at South Akron Orioles Nest.

Robert M. Rider

Roland O. Bertolini

Roland O. (Rollie) Bertolini, 91, passed away on March 6th after a brief illness. Born in Akron, Ohio in 1933, he was a graduate of Buchtel High School and received an Associate's Degree in Business Administration from Akron University. Rollie had a successful career as a general contractor with J F Bertolini Company and Ti-Bert Systems before retiring. Known for his generosity and commitment to family, he played an important role in keeping his family connected through reunions and was a father figure to his nephew Joe. He is survived by his wife Sara and several family members, with services to be held on March 13, 2025, at St. Hilary Church.

Roland O. Bertolini

Doris Lynne Ternent

Doris Lynne Ternent passed away on March 1, 2025, at the age of 80. She was a resident of Stow, Ohio at the time of her death. Her remains will be cremated through Summit Simple Cremation, located in Uniontown, Ohio. No additional service details or biographical information were provided in the obituary notice.

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