🎨 Funk returns

Darrell Campbell Bly

Darrell Campbell Bly, 83, of Streetsboro, Ohio, passed away on April 18, 2025, after being born in New Castle, Pennsylvania in 1941. He is survived by his wife Janet, his children Elizabeth and Gary, his stepdaughter Stephanie, seven grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, and several siblings. Darrell was preceded in death by his parents Howard and June, as well as two brothers and a sister-in-law. Visitation and funeral services will be held on April 28, 2025, at Crown Hill Funeral Home in Twinsburg, Ohio.

Candace E. Gengler

Candace E. Gengler, age 72, of Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, passed away on April 15th after a life deeply rooted in the Akron area. A University of Akron graduate and lifelong Akron native, she was known for her love of books, sports—particularly the Pittsburgh Pirates, Ohio State Buckeyes, and Cleveland Browns—and her involvement in her church choir. Candace was passionate about family, leaving behind her husband of 46 years, Donald, along with children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and two dogs. A celebration of life memorial service will be held at Twin Falls United Methodist Church on April 26th, 2025.

William F. Clevenger Jr.

William F. Clevenger Jr., 57, passed away on April 18, 2025, in Akron where he was born to the late William F. Sr. and Sylvia Clevenger. A 1986 St. Vincent St. Mary graduate, he earned All State honors as a tight end and continued his football career at Youngstown State University. Billy was an avid sports fan who particularly loved following St. V sports and local youth athletics, and he remained loyal to Cleveland's professional teams. He was known for his humble nature and strong friendships, and is survived by his brother Matthew, sister Stacy, and other relatives, while joining his parents and his partner of 20 years, Jeri-Lynn Anderson, in heaven.

Judith L. Midcap

Judith L. Midcap, 69, passed away peacefully on April 20, 2025, in Akron, Ohio. Born in 1955, she was known for her warm heart, infectious laughter, and ability to connect with others through her open and kind approach to everyone she met. Judith enjoyed spending time at the Community Center, collecting bears, and crocheting blankets, especially for newborns. She is survived by her siblings Nancy, Dean, and David, along with numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews, having been preceded in death by her parents Harold and Myrtle Midcap.

Michelle R. Hildreth

Michelle R. Hildreth, 61, of Akron passed away on April 19, 2025, after a brief battle with cancer. Born in 1963, she was a graduate of East High School and worked as a medical transcriptionist while enjoying hobbies like gardening, music, fishing, and playing pool. She is survived by her daughter Taylor, significant other Steve Hays, stepfather Bill Israel, and several siblings. A visitation and memorial service will be held on May 2, 2025, at Newcomer Funeral Home.

Mary Lucille Baker

Mary Lucille "Mary Lou" Baker passed away peacefully on April 21, 2025, at age 87. Born in Akron, Ohio, on July 20, 1937, she was predeceased by her husband Bernard and is survived by her four children and their families. Mary Lou was a graduate of St. Vincent High School and spent her career in public service, retiring from the Summit County Auditor's Office. Remembered for her kindness, strength, and boundless love, her memorial service will be held on April 26, 2025, at St. Hilary Church in Fairlawn, Ohio.

Aharon Pittman Sr.

Aharon Pittman Sr. passed away on April 13, 2025. A visitation will be held on Saturday, April 26, 2025, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am at Sommerville Funeral Services in Akron, Ohio. The funeral service will take place immediately following the visitation at the same location. Interment will be at Glendale Cemetery.

Dr. Joseph A. Anslovar

Dr. Joseph A. Anslovar, 86, passed away on April 20, 2025, following the death of his wife Cherie in 2023 after 58 years of marriage. A graduate of Case Western Reserve University's medical school, he spent 20 years at Barberton Citizens Hospital in various leadership positions before retiring in 1998, after which he worked at Barnes and Noble. Dr. Anslovar and his wife raised their daughter Amy in Barberton and were longtime members of St. Francis de Sales Parish, while he enjoyed golf, sports, and reading in his free time. He is survived by his daughter Amy and several close friends, with funeral services scheduled for April 29, 2025, at Greenlawn Memorial Park in Akron.

Janet Larson Hurd

Janet Lynne Larson Hurd passed away on April 21, 2025, following her husband Jeffrey who died in 2008. She was a devoted mother to Jeffrey and Megan, and a loving grandmother to Zachary and Cameron Hoffman. A lifelong Lakewood, Ohio native, Janet was an avid Cleveland sports fan who spent her final years at Brentwood Healthcare in Northfield, where she enjoyed bingo, crafts, and friendships. A celebration of life will be held later, with memorial contributions directed to Brentwood's Arts and Crafts Program.

Edward Raymond Oblisk

Edward Raymond Oblisk, 72, passed away on April 18, 2025 in Munroe Falls, Ohio, where he was a long-time carpenter who worked for Ruhlin and Williamson Construction companies and was a 50-year union member. An avid traveler, Edward enjoyed cruises with family and riding his Harley Davidson across numerous states, as well as golfing with friends. He is survived by his wife Becky, sons Shane and Jeremy, six siblings, and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends. A graveside service will be held on April 23, 2025, at Crown Hill Cemetery in Twinsburg, Ohio.

Betty Jean Kalish

Betty Kalish, a 93-year-old lifelong Ohioan, passed away on April 19, 2025. After graduating from Kent State University with an Education degree, she had a pioneering career at Ohio Bell Telephone, becoming one of the company's first female managers. Betty enjoyed organizing family trips, playing card games, gardening, and reading, while also volunteering at the Northfield Center Library and remaining active at St. Barnabas Catholic Church. She will be inurned at All Saints Cemetery in Northfield, with the family requesting contributions to Hospice of the Western Reserve in lieu of flowers.

Michael L. Senyek, Jr.

Michael L. Senyek, Jr. passed away on April 19, 2025, at home surrounded by family. Born in 1939 in Cleveland, he earned advanced degrees in engineering and chemistry, worked for over 35 years as a research chemist at Goodyear, and was awarded numerous patents. He was married to his wife Joanne for nearly 56 years and is survived by her, their three children, and seven grandchildren. A humble man of deep faith, Michael was known for his kindness, devotion to family, and quiet strengths, finding joy in gardening and sharing his homemade foods with loved ones.

Mildred J. Gahres

Mildred J. Gahres, 95, of Akron, passed away on April 20, 2025, after being born in Lebanon, Pennsylvania in 1929. She married Robert S. Gahres in 1948 and moved to Akron in the early 1950s, where she was actively involved in her children's activities as a Scout leader and Little League scorekeeper. Mildred worked at several establishments including the S&H Green Stamp Store and Fashion Barn before retiring in the late 1980s. She is survived by four of her five children, her brother Ronald, sister Mary, eight grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, two great-great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Velma "Rudi" Rorrer

Velma "Rudi" Rorrer passed away on April 18, 2025, after being born and raised in Alloy, West Virginia. She worked as a Nursing Assistant at Barberton Hospital and Pleasant View Nursing Home, and enjoyed bingo, slot machines, gardening, and especially spending time with her grandchildren. Velma was predeceased by her two husbands and two sisters, and is survived by her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, in-laws, and several nieces and nephews. The family will hold private services and has expressed gratitude to Summa Hospice for their care during Velma's final weeks.

David D. Traugh

David Douglas Traugh, a Korean War veteran who passed away at age 91 on April 21, 2025, was a successful entrepreneur who operated a photography studio for 40 years before establishing a home buying and selling business in retirement. A devout Christian and generous gardener who loved sharing his harvest, Dave was a longtime member and usher at Akron Baptist Temple and later Village Baptist Temple in North Canton. Following the death of his wife Nancy of 53 years and his daughter-in-law Melody, he is survived by his four children, seven grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, and his special friend Connie Dice.

George L. Radoichin

George Radoichin, 78, passed away on April 12, 2025, after a life marked by his service as a Navy veteran in the Vietnam War. Born in Akron, Ohio in 1946, he was known for his sense of humor, love of golf, and ability to make others laugh. George is survived by his children Nikki and Brian, four siblings, several nieces and nephews, a lifelong friend, and his dog Rufus, while being preceded in death by his wife Sallie and sister Barbara. Following his wishes, his cremated remains will be placed at Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery on May 15, 2025.

Gloria Jean Sanders

Gloria Jean Belknap-Sanders, who died peacefully on April 19th, 2025 at age 77, was a dedicated employee of Kent State University for over 40 years. She is survived by her daughter Rachell, 11 grandchildren, numerous great-grandchildren, and extended family, while now joining her husband Clayton, parents, and brother in eternal rest. A woman of faith, Gloria was an active member of Maranatha Bible Church and expressed her devotion through playing piano. Her funeral service will be held on April 25, 2025, at Newcomer Funeral Home in Akron, with burial at Standing Rock Cemetery in Kent, Ohio.

Edward Francis Steinkerchner

Edward Francis Steinkerchner passed away on April 20, 2025, at age 94, after a life dedicated to family, faith, and community. A University of Akron graduate and Korean War veteran, he married Roberta Deeter in 1954 and raised four children while pursuing a successful career in the rubber industry. Steinkerchner was passionate about sports, serving as a football referee for 34 years and remaining an active golfer until age 94. He was a devoted member of St. Hilary Catholic Church and is survived by his children, grandchildren, great-granddaughter, and siblings.

Jeffrey Alan Singleton

Jeffrey Alan Singleton, 64, passed away on April 19, 2025, at his home in Wadsworth Township. Born in Norton, Ohio, he was a talented baseball player whose professional aspirations were cut short by a car accident, leading him to pursue a successful career as a patternmaker and wood craftsman. Jeff married Tamera Hodge in 1988 and was a devoted father to their two children, Ethan and Molly, while also enjoying hobbies like golf, hunting, and fishing. Known for his kindness, intelligence, and willingness to help others, he leaves behind his wife, children, grandson, brothers, and many friends and family members who will deeply miss him.

Virginia D. Emershaw

Virginia "Ginger" Emershaw, 84, a beloved schoolteacher from Akron, Ohio, passed away on April 19. After moving to Akron with her husband George, she taught for both Akron Public Schools and Cuyahoga Falls City Schools, touching the lives of hundreds of children. Though the couple had no children of their own, Ginger considered her students family and remained active after retirement as a volunteer at Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens. She maintained strong ties to her Pennsylvania roots through scholarship endowments while leaving a lasting legacy in Akron through her nurturing spirit and community involvement.

Marjorie Potye

Marjorie "Marge" A. Potye, 101, passed away peacefully on April 10, 2025, in Wadsworth, Ohio. Born in 1924, she had a 23-year career with the Gorman-Rupp Company before retiring in 1981, the same year she married George Potye. Marge was passionate about volunteering, helping establish Hospice of Crawford County and dedicating time to multiple libraries, including those in her assisted-living and nursing facilities. She is survived by her stepdaughter, Connie Currier, and a special cousin, Cheryl Elliott, while her husband George (2001), infant daughter Annabelle (1947), and parents preceded her in death.

Daniel Martin Joseph

Daniel Martin Joseph, 64, of Mantua, Ohio, passed away peacefully on April 15, 2025, after battling lymphoma. Born in Cleveland on April 12, 1961, he is survived by his wife Kelly of 34 years, children Danielle and Tyler, and six siblings. Dan was known for his warm smile, unique humor, love of classic cars and The Three Stooges, and his ability to make everyone feel included. A Celebration of Life will be held on May 3rd at CVC Church in Broadview Heights, Ohio.

Patricia J. Stouffer

Patricia J. Stouffer, a 92-year-old resident of Stow since 1953, passed away on April 20, 2025. She worked as an insurance agent until her retirement in 1994 and was a member of First United Methodist Church of Cuyahoga Falls. Patricia enjoyed reading and traveling, and is survived by her children, Linda and David, along with four grandchildren. A graveside service will be conducted by Pastor Dan Page on April 25 at Crown Hill Cemetery, with visitation at Redmon Funeral Home beforehand.