Thomas Alexander Boryenace, 82 years old, passed away Apr. 18, 2026. Tom was born Aug. 23, 1943, in Cleveland, Ohio, Veteran, U.S. Air Force. He dedicated much of his working life to National Acme, where he was employed for 35 years, and later continued his career with Rollcraft and F&J Grinding. Brother to Ronald Srsa (Laura), Charles Boryenace (Debbie) and Ollie Kay Boryenace. Also survived by sister-in-law Jane Christen. Uncle and cousin of many. Preceded in death by his parents, Alexander and Catherine Boryenace (née Perovich) and brother Alexius Boryenace. Family and friends were received at The Abbey, grounds of McMahon-Coyne-Vitantonio Funeral Home where final services were also held. 

Robert John “Bob” Cicek, 82 years old, passed away Apr. 16, 2026. Husband of Marjorie Ann (nee Green). Father of Pamela Hirko (Brian), Robin Cicek, Timothy (Sunkyoung), Robert, and Michael (Molly). Grandfather of Nathaniel (fiancée Regina), Hannah, and Noah Hirko, Erin (Lee) Kepford, Johnathon Dome, Syrus, Hunter, Morgan, and Michael Cicek and great-grandfather of Benjamin, Olivia, and Warren Kepfor. Son of the late Louis and Veronica (nee Kelenc) Cicek. Brother of the late Louis Cicek. Brother-in-law, uncle and great-uncle of many. Bob was born on May 9, 1943, in Cleveland, Ohio. He graduated from Willoughby South High School and went on to study accounting at John Carroll University. Bob retired as the CFO of American Alloy Corporation. Previous President, Treasurer, and Director of AAC. Board of Director at Goodwill Industries, and Director of Charles R. Jelm Foundation. Funeral Mass of Christian Burial was at St. Francis of Assisi Church, followed by private Burial at All Souls Cemetery. Family and friends were received at DeJohn-Flynn-Mylott Funeral Home, Chardon Road.

Mary Beth Cortnik, 64 years old, passed away Apr. 4, 2026. Mary Beth was born Aug. 10, 1961, in Cleveland, Ohio, as the daughter of the late Jerry and Dolores Blazetic.  She graduated from, respectively, Mentor High School and then Lakeland Community College. Mother of Andrew Cortnik and Gina Cortnik. Former spouse of Patrick Cortnik. Grandmother of Landon Cortnik. Sibling of Michael (Barb) Blazetic. Aunt of Angela Blazetic-Lopez (Jose), Kelsey Blazetic-Williams (Marshall), Mallory Von Broker (Kurt), Candice Ina (Patrick), Brianna Blazetic, Lauren Blazetic, and Renee Sanders (Dontez). Preceded in death by her brother David Blazetic. Family and friends were received at Monreal Srnick Funeral Home, where final funeral service was also held followed by burial at Mentor Cemetery.

Mary Gerber (nee Sustersic), 77 years old. Mother of Adam Gerber. Sister of Sr. Joan Sustersic, O.P., and the late Joseph J. Sustersic. Aunt and great-aunt.  of many nieces and nephews. Mary was employed as a career as a special education instructor with the Cuyahoga County Board of Developmental Disabilities. She enjoyed greatly nature, the Playhouse Square, and animals. Final funeral services were held at Schulte & Mahon-Murphy Funeral Home with interment at Lake View Cemetery.

Raymond (Ray) Gruber, 74 years old, passed away Apr. 23, 2026. Son of the late Raymond & Fina Gruber. Ray was born June 1, 1951. Ray married Fran (Frances, nee Kristanc) May 6, 1972, at St. Vitus Church in Cleveland. Father of Eric, Ryan, and Joshua. Grandfather of Gage, Eric Jr., Deanna, Hazel, and Carter. Sibling Richard (Ellie), Robert (Heather), and Pat (late Ryan) Penvose. Veteran, U.S. Air Force. After honorable discharge, Ray was employed at Geneva Rubber, Reliance Electric, Coe Mfg. and then became a Staff Representative, United Steelworkers until his retirement in 2016. Ray and Fran owned North Coast Driving School. Ray & Fran then took over the family vineyards in Harpersfield which were established in 1920. Harpersfield Township Trustee. Member, Ashtabula Township Association. Board Member for Northwest Ambulance, Geneva Area Chamber of Commerce and President of the Geneva Area Senior Corporation. Ray served on several Ashtabula County Committees and the Ashtabula County Port Authority Board. Prior President of Ashtabula County AFL-CIO and past President of Local Union 12833, United Steelworkers and current Board Chairman for the Welfare and Scholarship Program for the United Steelworkers, District One. Former member of the Harpersfield Ruritans. Member, American Legion George Call Post 124. Member, Assumption Parish, Geneva. Also preceded in death by his sister, Priscilla Bell and Brother-in-law, Ryan Penvose. Family and friends were received at Behm Family Funeral Home, Geneva, OH. Funeral Mass of Christian Burial was at Assumption Church. Burial was at Harpersfield Cemetery. Contributions may be made to Geneva Area Senior Center, Harpersfield Fire Dept or Assumption Church. Wr. Note: Ancestors of the Gruber family established a vineyard on this land in 1920. His ancestors were part of a migration of Slovenian families to Harpersfield Township. That migration occurred in the late 1800s and continued into Prohibition, which reduced the market for grapes. The Concord grapes grown on this farm are sold to and processed by Welch’s in New York. The vineyard also grows Niagara grapes for Ferrante’s.

Linda Hochevar, 61 years old, passed away Apr. 18, 2026 after a long battle with cancer. Survived by fiancé, Frank Moravcik. Stepmother of Christine (Christopher, deceased) Ritchea and Kelly (Chad) Buzi, and step-granddaughters, Kaylee and Emily. Preceded in death by parents Richard and Jean Hochevar. Linda was born in Euclid, Ohio. She dedicated many years of her professional life to the Cleveland Clinic. For 20+ years, she served as an Administrative Assistant III, Reference GI Coordinator in Anatomic Pathology, and performed transcription work. She played clarinet in school and was raised in a home filled with polka music. Her father, Richard, played saxophone with the Frankie Kramer Orchestra. Linda then pursued her own musical journey. She helped form The Magic Buttons with several women who shared her passion for Cleveland-style Slovenian polka music. Linda initially played bass guitar with the group, contributing to several recordings, before mastering the button box accordion, which became her instrument of choice. Lifetime member of the National Cleveland-Style Polka Hall of Fame. Linda played an integral role in producing the organization’s annual awards show ad book. She was also honored with several awards from the Hall of Fame, including induction into the Trustees Honor Roll. Family and friends were received at The Abbey. Funeral Mass of Christian Burial was at St. John Vianny Church followed by burial at Willoughby Memorial Gardens. 

Anthony Peter “Pepsi” Jarem, 89 years old, passed away Mar. 10, 2026. Husband of the late Audrey (nee Oskay). Brother of Dominic (deceased) (Doris), Joseph (Mary) and Angela (deceased) (Larry). Brother-in-law of Ed Oskay, Daniel (Maureen) Oskay, Thomas Oskay and Mary (Larry) Slone. Uncle of Daniel, Michael, Andrea, Audrey, Lawrence, Scott, Joey, Mark, Michelle, Melissa, Toni, Amanda and Russell and great-uncle and godfather to many.  Funeral Mass of Christian Burial was at St. John Cantius Church. 

Igor Klobas, 59 years old, passed away Apr. 27, 2026. He was born in Italy Dec. 24, 1966, son of the late Ivan and Marica Klobas. The family for a number of years then resided on Schade Avenue in the St. Clair Avenue neighborhood. Igor was a highly respected freelance cameraman for CBS Sports and NBC Sports. Husband of Krissy (née Seeders). Father of Autumn Klobas and Liam Klobas. Brother of Edo (Karen) Klobas. Uncle of Anthony Klobas. Brothers-in-law of Rob Seeders and Jeff Seeders. Also preceded in death by parents-in-law, Robert and Beulah Seeders. Family and friends were received at Monreal Srnick Funeral Home where a funeral service was held at the funeral home immediately following visitation. 

Frank Kogovsek, Sr., age 86, passed away peacefully after a short illness on May 23, 2026, surrounded by family and much love from both near and far. Beloved husband for 63 years of Jennie “Ivanka” (nee Rus); loving father of Frank, Jr. (wife Laurie), Louise Sulecki (husband Jim), David (wife Amy), Monika Michaud (husband Jeff), and Majda Valerian (husband Dan); much-loved grandfather “Ata” of Nicholas and Jennifer Kogovsek, Erika (Richard Brown-Hernandez) and Nathan Sulecki, David and Brennan Kogovsek, Marina Keel (husband Christopher), Brianna Debczynski (husband Mat), Celena Auer (husband Sean), Jeffrey Michaud, Jr., and Michael, Nola, and Alex Valerian and great-grandfather of Christopher Jr. “CJ” Keel; cherished son of the late Janez and Marija (nee Gantar); dearest brother of Francka Makse (husband Bozidar, deceased), Rezka “Theresa” Rus (husband Tony), and the late Janez (wife Fanci, deceased), Mici Mazi (husband Tony, deceased), Ivanka Rus (husband France), Joze (wife Martina, deceased), Marjanca Leskovec (husband Johan, deceased), and Tone; dear uncle, great-uncle, and friend of many. Frank was born Frančišek Kogovšek on September 24, 1939 into a large farming family in Smrečje (Notranjska), Slovenia, where in the surrounding hills he led an active and adventure-filled boyhood of biking, schooling, and skiing, the escapades of which he later enjoyed sharing with his family and friends. He served a mandatory stint in the Yugoslav People’s Army and attended machinist school in Stuttgart, (West) Germany. In 1962 he followed his heart to the United States, where he pursued and in 1963 married Jennie, whom he had met while both still lived in Slovenia. Settling in Cleveland and the surrounding area, Frank then established a long career as a machinist and a shop foreman while also personally constructing his own home in the suburb of Willoughby Hills. There he and Jennie raised their family and enjoyed many memorable parties, holidays, and family get-togethers at which Frank served as a happy, smiling, and generous host. Frank worked for National Acme for many years, then enjoyed a highly successful 21-year career at PAKO, Inc. during which he quickly moved up the ladder to become shop foreman. On his retirement in 2004, Frank was lauded by PAKO for his “combination of ‘Yankee ingenuity’ and ‘Slovenian stubbornness'” and described as “astonishing” what he had accomplished during his career there. In retirement as throughout most of his life, Frank continued to lend his vast expertise and unstinting hard work to maintaining, improving, and expanding Slovenska Pristava, the Slovenian recreational and cultural area in Ashtabula County, Ohio, which was both his hobby and his enduring passion for preserving the Slovenian culture in America. Frank was a handyman supreme, a friend to all, unfailingly generous, a pillar of the Slovenian community, and a longtime parishioner of St. Vitus Church in Cleveland. He was a devoted husband and a doting father and grandfather and great-grandfather and was enormously well-liked and well-respected among Cleveland’s Slovenian-Americans as well as by many, many others. He will be missed by all who knew him. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in memory of Frank to Slovenska Pristava

Herbert “Herb” Kramer, 90 years old, passed away Apr. 20, 2026. Herb was born in 1936, the village of Poellandl, Gottschee in Slovenia as the son of the late Johann and Maria Kramer. The family was forced to move from the Gottschee due to WWII and relocated to Austria and then Germany. Herb legally emigrated to the USA in 1955 with his family and settled in Cleveland. He was an apprentice to a cobbler in Austria and worked in a coal mine in Germany. He spent his career in the United States as a skilled machinist. He was a gifted athlete who loved soccer. He also excelled at tennis, golf, and table tennis, and loved painting and music. Member, EOUV Club. Husband of Elizabeth (nee: Sigmund). Father of Karen Bitzer (Christopher) and Kris Kramer-Jordan (Gregory). Granddaughter, Elise Spintzyk; step-grandfather of Carly Egensperger (Grant). Brother of Maria Thaler (John) and Albin Kramer (Erika, dec.). Uncle of many. He was preceded in death by siblings John Kramer (Frieda, dec.), Leopold Kramer (Hilda, surviving) and Berta Kramer. Funeral Mass of Christian Burial was at St. Gabriel Church. Family and friends were received at Brunner Sanden Deitrick Funeral Home. Donations may be made to Alzheimer’s Association Cleveland Area Chapter, 3 Summit Park Drive, #550, Independence, OH 44131 or to Reserve Care, P.O. Box 72101, Cleveland 44192. Wr. Note: The Kocevje area in Slovenia had friendly relations and harmonious living with Gottschee and Slovenian people for hundreds of years until the conclusion of WWII when the Slovenian Communist government exiled the majority of Gottschee people.  

Terry S. Krapenc, passed away Apr. 3, 2026. Husband of Rita (nee Shannon). Father of Dan, Bob (Lisa), and Jim. Grandfather of Chloe, Chelsea, and Makenzie. Brother of Janet Kee (Dennis). Son of the late Stanley and Anne (nee Grajzar). Funeral Mass of Christian Burial was at St. Gabriel Church, followed by burial at All Souls Cemetery.

Joseph A. Loconti, 95 years old, passed away Apr. 5, 2026. He was born Feb. 27, 1931. Husband of Arlene (nee Koporc). Father of Joseph E. (Lois), Karen LoConti-Diaz (Patrick Pancaldo), and late Dennis. Grandfather of Scott Banner and Mary (Jim Klave), Rick Diaz (Blandine, deceased), Natalie Ghislandi (Carlos), Dennis (Sara), Christina Klenck (Ryan), Annemarie Farhat (Paul), and Jeannine O’Brien (Sean); and great-grandfather of 16 and great-great grandfather of nine. Son of the late John and Philomena (nee Albondante) LoConti. Brother of the late Andrew, Nicholas, and Henry. Brother-in-law of Edwin, Richard, and late Ronald Koporc. Uncle, great-uncle, great-great-uncle, and friend of many. Joe graduated from John Hay High School and then attended Fenn College where he majored in business and real estate. Joe worked in his family’s beverage business, and then ventured into the sandwich industry, pre-cooked food business, and was a food broker across seven states serving schools and institutions. Joe shared a particularly strong bond with his older brother Henry and with his help, collaborated in several businesses, most notably, The Cleveland Agora. Funeral Mass of Christian Burial was at St. Noel Church, followed by entombment at All Souls Cemetery. Family and friends were received at DeJohn Funeral Home, Chesterland, Ohio. 

Anton (John) Mihelich, 95 years old, former pipefitter, passed away Mar. 25, 2026. Anton was born Jan. 2, 1931, in Dover (Westlake) Ohio. Husband of Ruth MacDonald. They built a house on a section of the Michelich Family farm located on Detroit Rd Westlake and made it their home, raising their children Scott, Ronald, Gregg, and Jay.  Survived by Scott (Kathleen) Michelich, Gregg (Vanessa) Michelich, and Jay (Debra) Michelich. Preceded in death by his wife and son, Ronald. Also survived by grandchildren James (Nicole) Michelich, Alan (Laura) Michelich, Andrew (Lauren) Michelich, Connor Michelich, and Ashley Michelich. His granddaughter, Apphia, preceded him in death. Also survived by great-grandchildren Triston and Colton Michelich, and Millie and Miles. Anton graduated from Dover (Westlake) High school, Class of 1949.  No services are planned at this time.

John Francis McGarry, 87 years old, known as “Jack,” passed away Apr. 9, 2026. He was born Dec. 22, 1938, son of the late Michael J. McGarry and Catherine Agnes (nee O’Mara). Veteran, U.S. Army. Husband of Margaret (nee Kearney). Father of John “Sean” (deceased) (Audrey), Timothy (Michelle), Brendan (Vicki), and Meghan Gabrovsek (Mark). Grandfather to TJ (Josephine), Matthew, Morgan (Paxton), Caitlin, Gabriel, Kellen, Raphael, Michael “Finn”, and Kennedy. Sibling of Catherine Zbiegien and Betty (Tom) Wirsing, and sisters-in-law Ellen McGarry and Pat McGarry. Uncle and great-uncle of many. Also preceded in death by siblings Michael Jr. “Tunney” (Mary Ellen), Margaret (Dick) Gross, Paddy, Nancy (Neil) Gallagher, Larry McGarry, Theresa (Ron) Banc, and brother-in-law Frank Zbiegien. Board member, Rosemary Home in Euclid and Irish American Club, Euclid, Ohio. Former president, Noble Beach Association. In 2016, Jack and his brother Larry, were Walks of Life honorees by the Irish American Archives Society. Active for many decades, McGarry & Sons, a painting company in Cleveland, Ohio. Family and friends were received at McMahon-Coyne-Vitantono Funeral Home. Funeral Mass of Christian Burial was at St. Aloysius Church, Cleveland, Ohio followed by burial at All Souls Cemetery. Wr. Note: McGarry & Sons did a large portion of preparatory work in the interior of St. Vitus Church during its remodeling work circa 1992-1993.

Sister Kathleen Ogrin, 82 years old, passed away Apr. 20, 2026. She was born Sept. 30, 1943 as the daughter of the late Rudolph and Mary Ogrin on September 30, 1943. Her older brothers were James and Kenneth. She attended St. Paul’s School in Euclid and Villa Angela Academy in Cleveland. After entering the Ursuline Congregation in 1961, Kathleen studied at St. John College and Kent State University, earning bachelor’s and master’s degrees in education. She began a long teaching career at St. Francis de Sales, St. William, St. Mary (Mentor), and Urban Community Schools. Kathleen proceeded to serve as principal of St. Mary Magdalene and St. Mary (Mentor) Schools. In 1990 Sister Kathleen assumed directorship of Holy Family Learning Center in Lakewood, now known as Lakewood Catholic Academy. For 27 years she led teachers in serving childcare needs of hundreds of children aged six weeks to five years of age. Kathleen assisted Holy Family in creating a homelike atmosphere for the children in its care. She retired to the Ursuline Motherhouse in Pepper Pike in 2019 and then in 2024 to Light of Hearts Villa in Bedford. She is survived by her Ursuline Sisters; sisters-in-law, Kathy and Marlena; and nieces and nephews. Mass of Christian Burial was at Light of Hearts Villa where visitation preceded the Mass followed by interment at All Souls Cemetery.

Mary Ann Pecek (nee Berlon) passed away May 4, 2026. Daughter of the late Mary (nee Maypother) and Henry Berlon. Wife of the late Deacon Louis G. Pecek. Mother of Bob (Marcia), Margaret Rahlfs (Bill), Vickie Lynch (Rich) and Kate Waksmunski (Mark). Grandmother of Brian (Meghan) and Kevin (Ashley) Lynch, and Joshua, Matthew, Emma and Sarah Pecek. Sister of the late Hank and Bob Berlon. Aunt of many. Family and friends were received at Jakubs & Son Funeral Home, East 185th St. Funeral Mass of Christian Burial was at St. John of the Cross Church followed by private internment. 

Arline Marie Peters (nee Sustarsic), 85 years old, passed away Apr. 29 , 2026. She was born Aug. 13, 1937 as the daughter of the late Joseph and Mary Sustarsic (nee Guzell). Wife of the late Harry. Mother of Gary, Elaine, Gregory (Jennifer), Glen (Peggy), and Geoffrey (Laura) Peters. Grandmother of 21 grandchildren, great-grandmother of 22 great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandmother of three. Volunteer, Bethlehem Luthern School and Parish. Also preceded in death by her brother Joseph Sustarsic and sister-in-law Carol Sustarsic. Funeral Service was held at Our Redeemer Lutheran Church, Solon, Ohio followed by interment at All Souls Cemetery.

Barbara B. Podojil, 89 years old, passed away Apr. 2, 2026, after a 12-year battle with dementia. She was born May 12, 1936, daughter of the late Gerald and Genevieve Benham. Barbara graduated from Bowling Green State University. She began her teaching career at the Willoughby-Eastlake School District. Key faculty member when Willoughby South High School first opened in 1958. She established the Argus Yearbook, the school newspaper, and several other South High traditions. Wife of the late Joe. Mother of Joy Totedo, (Bob) and Susan Kahn. Grandmother of Sarah (Kevin Shimp) and Emily Totedo, and Nolan (Katy) and Hannah Kahn. Aunt of many. Final resting place will be in St. Petersburg, Florida with her husband Joe.

Marilyn A. Skacevic, 91 years old, passed away Apr. 1, 2026. She was born on Nov. 11, 1934 in Akron, Ohio. Marilyn graduated from St. Vincent High School and attended Kent State University for journalism. She worked for Goodrich before retiring to raise her family with her husband Joe. Volunteer, Akron-Canton Foodbank. Preceded in death by her husband, Joseph; daughter, Patricia Duke and sister, Jane Kovacic. Survived by her daughter, Carol (Rob) Cottrill; son-in-law, Andy Duke; and grandsons, Joe Duke and Sam Cottrill. Funeral Mass of Christian Burial was at St. Hilary Church, Fairlawn, Ohio, followed by interment at Rose Hill Burial Park.

Emil “Jack” Smolic, 75 years old, passed away May 5, 2026. He was born Apr. 25, 1951. All arrangements were handled by Gattozzi Funeral Home. No other information is provided at this time. 

Dorothy Tomazic, 89 years old. Dorothy was born May 16, 1936, in Cleveland, Ohio, as the daughter of the late Anton Tomazic and late Sophie (nee Walland) Tomazic. Dorothy graduated from Ohio University and dedicated her life to education. She began her teaching career at Collinwood High School, then earned a master’s degree in Elementary Education. She then taught at Huntington Elementary School. Outside the classroom, Dorothy found great joy in reading and gardening; and being an avid sports fan. Also preceded in death by her brother, Raymond Tomazic. She is survived by her nephews Raymond (Sandra) Tomazic and Anthony (Natalie) Tomazic, her sister-in-law, Rita Nucciarone. Great-aunt to Blaise (Hayley), Tyler, Mitchell (Julianne), Ashley (Rick), Nicki (Matt), and Leah (David), and great-great aunt to Braylen, Aubrey, Fitz, Miley, and Mia. A Memorial Mass for Dorothy was held at St. Gabriel Church.

Anna Marie Turk, 87 years old, passed away May 3, 2026. She was born Mar. 1, 1939 as the daughter of the late Leo and Helen DiSanto. Wife of the late Frank. Mother of DeAnna Robare (Paul, deceased), Frank Turk (Jodi), Chris Turk, and Alicia Holland (Kevin). Grandmother of Lauren Williams (Dan), Michael Robare (Kim), Jennifer Marek, Rachelle, Gabby, and Adam Turk, Alexandra Holland and Jack Holland; and great-grandmother of Anthony, Nolan, Jackson, and Jordan Williams, Maggie, Mia and Leila Robare, Addison Marek and Reese Turk-White. Aunt and friend of many. Anna Marie graduated from Shaw Hihg School, Class of 1958 and a 1960 graduate of The Huron Road Hospital School of Practical Nursing. She took great pride in her education as a nurse, using her knowledge and compassion to care for others throughout her lifetime. Funeral Mass of Christian Burial was at St. Paschal Baylon Church followed by interment at Knollwood Cemetery. Family and friends were received at DeJohn-Flynn-Mylott Funeral Home, South Euclid, with all arrangements made by Ripepi Funeral Home. 

Anthony Urbas, 87 years old, passed away Apr. 22, 2026. He was born Nov. 10, 1938, as the son of the late Frank J. Urbas and Mary (nee Kuhar). Veteran, U. S. Army. He was an auto body repairman and was employed at Andy’s Auto Body. He had also been employed at Classic Carriage with his brothers and for the family business of Urbas and Sons. Anthony enjoyed AA fuel dragster racing with a team name of “Toil and Urbas.” Survived by siblings James (Donna) Urbas, John Urbas, Raymond (Cheryl) Urbas, Margaret Pancher, and Rosie Derk. Uncle of many. Also preceded in death by siblings Frank Urbas Jr., Donald Urbas, Janet Hanzak, Mary Ann Koerper, and Joanne Brawner. Family and friends were received at Spear Mulqueeny Funeral Home, where final services were held, followed by burial at Mentor Cemetery.

Marianne Maser, 92 years old, passed away May 3, 2026. Marianne was born in Akron and was a Barberton resident most of her life. She worked at Barberton Citizens Hospital as a nursing assistant, R.E.M. Inc as a secretary and also Sears Dept. Store. Member, Prince of Peace Parish where she sang in the choir, was on the prayer shawl ministry and active with the Knights of Columbus #14111 Ladies Auxiliary. Marianne was preceded in death by her parents Nicholas Ducar and Miriam and John Glynn; husband James; and granddaughter Emily Nigh. Survived by her children Nikki Dye, Jim (Susi) Maser and Kris (Randy) Brummond; grandchildren Brian (Krista) Nigh, Kevin (Haley) Brummond, Troy Brummond, and Sabine and Christian Maser; and great-grandson Krue Brummond. Funeral Mass of Christian Burial was at Prince of Peace Catholic Church, followed by private Burial at Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery. Wr. Note: Prior to Prince of Peace Parish, Sacred Heart of Jesus was the Slovenian personal parish in Barberton, OH. It closed in 2009. 

Emil Jack “Moe” Smolic, 75 years old, passed away May 5, 2026. Emil was born in Apr. 25, 1951, in Euclid, Ohio, the son of late Stefi (nee Skubic) and late Joseph Smolic (Sr.). “Moe” graduated from St. Joseph High School, Class 1969. “Moe” began learning the family business while a freshman was in high school. He worked as a machinist, became part owner and was the Head of Sales for the Smolic Machine Company, retiring after 30 years, in 2001. In retirement, Moe decided to become a licensed Insurance Agent, selling New York Life Insurance, as well as an independent Insurance Agent. In Aug. 26, 1983, he married Margo Estelle Mavrikis. He loved the game of golf and would play seven days a week. Longtime member, Legend Lake Golf Club of Fowlers Mill. He also played on the ESPN Senior Pro Tour, Northeast Ohio. He had a passion for keeping his landscape manicured and enjoyed gardening and traveling with his wife and family. Also preceded in death by his brother, Joseph Smolic. Survivors include his wife, Margo; his two children, Melissa C. (Connon) Thompson and Jason A. Chilcoat; his grandchildren, Vanessa, Alexander, Genevieve, Connon Jr., Liam and Paige.  A celebration to be held at a future date with Gattozzi and Son Funeral Home assisting the family.

Sean Derek Sutcliffe age 15, beloved son of Derek and Jennifer (neé Hocevar); loving brother of Dylan; cherished grandson of Dennis and Mary Sutcliffe; John Hocevar and Barbara Hocevar; dearest nephew, cherished cousin, and “fierce” friend to many. Sean was born on September 13, 2010, wearing a smile on his face. His smile never seemed to fade and embodied a kindness that extended to everyone he met. He attended Mayfield High School and was excited to be part of the marching band. He loved spending time with his family and friends, whether road-tripping to see his cousins, hanging out watching movies, listening to music, or winning any and every game he played with others. Sean was very loving, and possessed wisdom and maturity beyond his years. Though he rests in the presence of the Lord, his memory leaves an everlasting smile on the faces of all those who knew him. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Cleveland Clinic Children’s Hospital or the ATCP.org in Sean’s memory. 

NATIONAL/INTERNATIONAL

Michael Paul Fleischmann, 67 years old, passed away Apr. 5, 2026. He was born Apr. 7, 1958 in Hutchinson, KS, son of the late Roland W. and Esther May Fleischmann (originally “Flajsman”). Mike graduated from Greeley Central High School, Class of 1976 and Colorado State University, Class of 1982, with a bachelor’s degree in computer science and electrical engineering. Mike was employed at Hill AFB in Ogden, UT, for three years. He consulted in Colorado until 1988 when he started OPTIMUS where he was Director of R&D. He worked for ANSI/AIIM standards organization and also at Hewlett-Packard, Optical Publishing Incorporated, and most recently Keysight in Loveland, CO.  Husband of Diane (nee Reuer). Father of Daniel (Mary) and baby Mia, Kevin (Janet) and baby David. Sibling of Cordelia and her daughter Jennifer. Also preceded in death by his Walt. A memorial gathering will be held in Fort Collins, CO. 

Patrick “Pat” Martin Mehle, 74, passed away after a two-and-a-half-year battle with cancer. Life-long resident of Rock Springs, WY. Pat was born as the son of the late William M. and Mary Ann (nee Brelih) Mehle, both of Slovenian descent. He was the eldest of five children.  Pat attended Ss. Cyril and Methodius Elementary School and then attended and graduated from Rock Springs High School, Class of 1968.  He was a National Merit Scholarship finalist.  When he wasn’t in school, Pat worked for Rahonce Construction until he graduated from the University of Wyoming, Class of 1973, bachelor degree in  Electrical Engineering. Pat became a partner with his father at Southwest Machine and Welding, where he worked for over 50 years.  Husband of Gail (nee Hill). Father of Mike Mehle (Katie) and Melissa Mehle.  Grandfather of Isaac, Rachel and Caleb Mehle; and Braedyn Green.  He enjoyed music, astronomy, his Slovenian heritage, and other diverse interests. Member, Holy Spirit Catholic Finance Council. Trustee and a member, Catholic School board. Member, Knights of Columbus, and Adoration Chapel. Sibling of Linda Martin, Bill Mehle (Phyllis), Sandra Mehle-Hanson (Kevin), and Greg Mehle (Anne).  Funeral Mass of Christian Burial was at Our Lady of Sorrows Church with graveside and Inurnment service at Rock Springs Municipal Cemetery. Wr. Note: Ss. Cyril & Methodius was the Slovenian parish in Wyoming. It is now a parish in diocese of Cheyene.  

Sandy Powell (Stanfield-Joyner) 89 years old, passed away peacefully with family by her side Saturday, April 18  at Mill Pond Healthcare Center in Greencastle. Sandy was the second child born to Adolph and Jennie Stanfield (nee Milharcic) and was preceded in death by her husband Johnny Powell.

Dr. Ivan Rebernik, 87 years old, passed away Apr. 16, 2026. He was born Oct. 7, 1939, Maribor, Slovenia. After completing studies in Prevalje, Ravne na Koroškem and Đakovo, he received his master’s degree from the Faculty of Arts of the Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome in 1963. In 1965, he graduated in theology from the Faculty of Theology of the same university and received his doctorate in 1980. He completed a specialization in librarianship at the School of Library and Information Science at the Catholic University of America in Washington, DC, with a parallel internship at the Smithsonian Institution Library. Ivan began his career as a library employee at the Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome, working in various positions. Librarian at the Vatican Apostolic Library, assistant for bibliographic description and classification of books and periodicals. Also a full professor, Vatican School for Librarians and was employed at RAI radio in Rome, responsible for daily radio broadcasts in Slovenian. Head of the Library of the Görres Institute of Rome and the Teutonic College in the Vatican. In his diplomatic work, he was a translator and member of the Italian delegation at the meeting of the Italian-Yugoslav mixed commission for the implementation of the Osimo Agreement, and a translator at the highest state meetings with statesmen from Slovenia. Since 1994, he worked as counselor at the Embassy of the Republic of Slovenia to the Holy See. Between 2006 and 2010, he was the Ambassador of the Republic of Slovenia to the Holy See and organized the library of the Pontifical Brazilian College in Rome. Dr. Rebernik was fluent is at least six languages including Slovenian, English, French, Italian, Russian and Spanish. Dr. Rebernik was married with three children and had been resid ing in Rome, Italy since 1960. 

Patricia V. “Patty” Schuneman, 89 years old, passed away Apr. 16, 2026. She was born May 26, 1936, in Albany, MN., as the daughter of the late Anton and Elizabeth (Hoppe) Pohlman. She graduated from Cathedral High School, Class of 1954. For 45 years, she proudly served as a school bus driver for Trobec’s Bus Service, safely transporting three generations of children without a single incident, including her own grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Lifelong Member, St. Stephen Parish. Co-founder, St. Stephen River Runners Snowmobile Club and spent many years snowmobile racing. Known for her famous potica rolls. Wife of the late Clarence. Mother of Faye; Danny (Nita), David (Traci), Julie, Jennifer, and Amy (Mike). Grandmother of 15 and great-grandmother of 24, two more on the way. Also preceded in death by She was preceded in death by her daughter, Mary Knettel; her son, Michael; her granddaughter, Kayla Schuneman; and siblings Mildred, Hubert, Robert, Anna Mae Smoley, and Rita Pogatschnik. Past president, Slovenian Union of America. Active in the Ely, MN American Slovenian community. Funeral Mass of Christian Burial was at St. Stephen Church. Wr. Note: St. Stephen Church is considered as one of the oldest, Slovenian Catholic parishes in the USA in upper MN., with a large number of Slovenians arriving in the 1880s-1890s.  

Joseph Vucko, 89 years old. Joseph was born on Mar. 16, 1936 in Gornja Bistrica, Slovenija. Son of the late Ignac and Katerina Vucko (nee Lonec). Son of farmers and at age 18 left home to join the army. He legally emigrated to the USA in 1960.  Husband of the late Simone (nee Lorkovic). They married in suppressed (ie., closed) St. Stephen Church, a person parish in the archdiocese of Chicago. They lived on the third floor, three flat in Chicago’s Little Village. Joe was employed in construction, earning full union membership as a bricklayer in 1966. Father of Kathleen (Anton) Glavac, Joseph, Jr., Kristeen (Joseph) Wilber, and Stephanie. Grandfather of Michael, Rachel (Michael) Wolverton, Meaghan (fiancé David) Glavac, Alexander Malmquist, Danielle Malmquist, Haley (Tyler) Hall, Luke Rosas, Levi Rosas. Great-grandfather of Bradley, Matthew, Brooklyn, Madison, Liam, Emersyn, Liliana. Brother of Maria Vrstosek. Friend to many. Also preceded in death by grandson Kevin Glavac, and siblings Ivan, Ignac, Ferdinand, and sister Vera. Funeral Mass of Christian Burial was at St. Mary Catholic Mission, Lemont, IL. Interment at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery.

Alex Henry “Sunny” Yovanovich, 93 years old, passed away Apr. 21, 2026. He was born Sept. 5, 1942. Husband of Nancy (nee Cerne). Father of Alex (Andrea), Annette (Steve Mayberry) and Timmy (Christine). Grandfather of Alexander Yovanovich and Sophie Yovanovich. Brother of  Sue Ann Yovanovich, Debby Williams and Denny Yovanovich. Preceded in death by his parents Alex and Frances (nee Milharcic). Member, KSKJ (St. Aloysius), Slovenian N ational Home (Indianapolis, IN.), and now closed Holy Trinity Catholic Parish, a personal parish serving Slovenians in the archdiocese of Indianapolis. He grew up in the local “Haughville,” neighborhood where Slovenian immigrants and their children and grandchildren resided.  He attended Holy Trinity Elementary School. Alex worked tirelessly with his cousin Frankie Joe Konovsek, Carl Marolt and Augie Marolt to build a new home in Brownsburg, IN. Wr. Note: The Haughville neighborhood is near the famed “Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Alex took great pride in the precision of his work as a tool and die maker at Allison Transmission, a division of General Motors. Veteran, US Army and Indiana National Guard. Alex had a true passion for football. A star football player, All-State and All-City awards from Cathedral High School City under coach Joe Dezelan. Funeral Mass of Christian Burial was at St. Malachy Church, followed by graveside service at Calvary Cemetery, Indianapolis, IN.