🎻 Musical metamorphosis

Daniel Bethem

Dr. Daniel Bethem, an orthopedic surgeon specializing in spinal deformities, passed away peacefully at age 80 on April 17, 2025, in Akron, Ohio. Born in 1944 in Canonsburg, he grew up in modest circumstances, earned a full caddy scholarship to college and medical school, and became the first fellowship-trained scoliosis surgeon in the Akron area. After retiring from his surgical career, he worked as a financial advisor for A.G. Edwards and Wells Fargo. He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Mary Jo, their three children, and four grandchildren.

Mamie Florence Irace

Mamie F. Irace (known as May), aged 88, passed away peacefully on April 23, 2025, in Richfield, Ohio. Born in the Bronx in 1936, she was a dedicated mother, wife, and business owner who enjoyed cooking, baking, reading, and spending time with her family. May was especially devoted to her grandchildren, often attending their sporting events, and had many interests including sketching, collecting cookbooks, and watching birds. She is survived by her six children, nine grandchildren, siblings, and numerous nieces and nephews, with a memorial Mass scheduled for May 5, 2025, at St. Martin of Tours.

Sarah Sanford

Sarah Baughman Sanford, 51, passed away on April 27, 2025, at her home in Akron after a long illness. She is survived by her husband Vance, children Jane and Jude, sisters Bridget and Maggie, and several nephews. Sarah, who grew up in Akron and graduated from St. Vincent-St. Mary High School, was known for her wit, humor, and advocacy, especially for the LGBTQ community. She faced her illness with grace while being cared for by her husband of 21 years, allowing her to remain involved in her children's lives. Services will be held at Hummel Funeral Home and St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church, with a memorial trust established for her children.

Patricia Ann Clemetson

Patricia Ann Clemetson, 84, died peacefully at home on April 24, 2025, with family by her side. Born in 1940, she was a lifelong Akron resident who raised four children and later earned a degree in Early Childhood Development from the University of Akron. Patti volunteered at The International Institute of Akron helping immigrants and worked at Weaver School and Workshop until her retirement in 2009. She is remembered for her kindness, strong faith, and love of family, and is survived by nine grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, and other relatives.

Henry J. Shuba

Henry J. Shuba, 77, of Akron, passed away on April 24, 2025, leaving behind his wife Barbara of 53 years, daughters Shanea and MacKenzie, and three grandchildren. After growing up in Pennsylvania, Henry moved his family to Akron for work, where he spent 43 years with Ohio State Home Services as a basement waterproofer. A simple man who enjoyed time with family, golfing, and fishing, Henry was preceded in death by his parents and sister Connie, and will be celebrated privately by his family according to his wishes.

Harry "Wild Bill" Spencer

Harry "Wild Bill" Spencer, 82, passed away on April 23, 2025, after a 22-year battle with various health issues. Born in East Liverpool, OH in 1942, he was a U.S. Army veteran who later retired from Hayes Lemmerz International and was a member of the Mt Akra Post 680 Masonic Lodge. Spencer was renowned for his custom painting of motorcycles and race cars, even being featured on the cover of Beacon Magazine. He is survived by his wife Joyce of 30 years, his sister Mary Jo Hawkins, and many other family members and friends.

Kathleen Marie Boden

Kathleen Boden, a lifelong resident of Barberton/Norton, passed away peacefully on April 21, 2025. She is survived by her sisters Mary Ann Grace and Janet Liehe, her son Stephan Rudman, numerous nieces and nephews, and 13 great nieces and nephews. Kathleen was preceded in death by her partner Michael Motich and her brother-in-law Arlan Grace. She was cherished as an aunt, sister, and friend by those who knew her. A private celebration of her life will be held at a later date.

Hampton Weaver

Hampton Weaver passed away on April 23, 2025. A memorial service to honor their life will be held on Friday, May 2, 2025, at 11:00 am. The service will take place at Sommerville Funeral Services, located at 1695 Diagonal Road in Akron, Ohio. Family, friends, and others wishing to pay their respects are invited to attend the memorial service.

Garcha Avtar Singh

Garcha A Singh, 88, died peacefully at home on April 8, 2025. Born in India and raised in East Africa, he studied in Israel and at Kent State University, where he later worked in various roles and assisted many international students. He is survived by his children, grandchildren, and friends worldwide. A memorial service will be held on June 11 at 2:00 PM at Maplewood of Cuyahoga Falls, with options for virtual or in-person attendance that can be arranged by calling (234) 208-9871.

Grace Marie Sommers

Grace Sommers, 83, passed away on April 25, 2025, having been born in Louisville before later moving to Uniontown. She was preceded in death by her husband Galen, her parents, and two brothers, while she is survived by her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and one brother. Grace was known for her dedication to family, her quilting and sewing talents, her administrative skills that supported a Conklin business, and her quiet faith demonstrated through supporting missions. A memorial service will be held on May 10th at Evermore Community Church in Hartville, Ohio.