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In Memory of Special Islanders

 

 

 

Ted Blatt, 90, of 332 Division St., Kelleys Island, passed away late Sunday night, February 21, 2016 at Stein Hospice Care Center in Sandusky, surrounded by his family.

He was born on Kelleys Island on October 24, 1925 to the late Norman and Pauline (Kurtz) Blatt. He was a graduate of Kelleys Island School in 1943.

Ted appreciated all aspects of the lake, especially fishing, skiing, and cruising on his Lyman boats. He enjoyed touring the island on his motorcycle and golf cart. He was a collector of many things, most notably keys and bottle openers. A true family man, Ted always put those he loved before all else. He will be remembered for his kind spirit and his story telling. 

 

In Memory of

Daniel David Ahner

 

June 12, 1930 - January 27, 2018

 

Daniel "Danny" David Ahner, age 87, passed away Jan. 27, 2018, at Parkvue Assisted Living in Sandusky.

He was born June 12, 1930, to his parents Leo G. Ahner and Agnes (Stephens) Ahner.

He is survived by his three children, Patricia J. Ahner, Karen S. Ahner and Mark D. Ahner; eight grandchildren, Daniel R. Ahner, Michael L. Ahner, Janie K. Ahner, David Ahner, Lee D. Ahner, Max T. Ahner, Vaughn Varma and Tristan Varma; and three great-grandchildren, Arianna Ahner Timmy Ahner and Liam Ahner.

He was proceeded in death by his wife, Dona Jean (Harpst) Ahner; his son, Timothy Lee Ahner; his mother, Agnes (Stephens) Ahner, father, Leo G. Ahner; siblings, Richard (Dick) Ahner, Nancy (Ahner) Curtin, Janice (Ahner) Bertsch, Tom Ahner.

Dan was a veteran of the Korean War and served our country in the Intelligence Branch of the Army. Stationed in Germany, he received and transmitted Morse code. After serving, Dan worked his way through the Sheet Metal Workers Trade Union and worked with his dad and his brothers. In 1963, he started Ahner Sheet Metal and was a sheet metal contractor until 1984. In 1989, he purchased and developed what is now known as Caddy Shack Square property located on Kelleys Island. He was involved in other developments and properties throughout his life.

He loved Kelleys Island and donated to the local community, such as the K.I. EMT'S, The K.I. Police Department, the chamber and other local events. He was always willing and wanting to help people. He loved spending time with friends and family and enjoyed boating, fishing, ice fishing during the winters and traveling.

Per Dan's wishes, his body was donated to the University of Toledo's Medical Center for Science. That is him still giving. There will be no funeral arrangements. There will be a celebration of his life on Kelleys Island, to be determined at a later date. All those who knew and loved him will be invited.

Donations can be made to Stein Hospice, , Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation or favorite charity.

He will be missed by all who knew him but we are all better for knowing him.

 

RICHARD C. KADLEC                                  ,

 

age 88 of Kelleys Island, died unexpectedly Monday morning, October 22, 2012 at home. He was born July 18, 1924 to Charles and Mae Kadlec in Cleveland and he graduated from West Tech High School. Dick was a veteran and one of the Greatest Generation. He retired from the Cleveland Mounted
Police in 1978. He is survived by his family, son Kevin (Georgia) Kadlec; Karen
Medwetz; grandchildren Genevieve and Matthew Kadlec; and constant companion his beloved "Bonnie". He is also survived by his sister Rita and nieces Nancy and
Barbara. He will join his wife Rosie Kadlec who passed in 2004 and his son Patrick in March 2012.

SANDUSKY — Donald J. Huntley Sr., 83, of Sandusky, passed away late Friday night, April 7, 2017, after a brief illness in Firelands Regional Medical Center.

Don was born March 18, 1934, in Sandusky to Hiram and Edith (Bechtel) Huntley.

Don graduated from Sandusky High School in 1952 and was a member of the Phi Kappa Tau fraternity while attending Ohio University. He went into the Army on Feb. 15, 1954, and served in many capacities, including D, “Baker” Battery, 266 Armed Field Artillery Batallion, 18th Airborne Corps Field Artillery and a supply sergeant. On his return from the Army in 1956, he took over Huntley Cleaners and later founded Huntley Uniform Rental & Sales.

He was very passionate about serving his community without accepting recognition for his actions. Don handled the cleaning for the Coats for Kids Drive and the band uniforms for St. Mary’s, Perkins and Sandusky high schools. He was a member of the Sandusky American Legion Post 83. Don was also the commander of the Sandusky Power Squadron in 1969, Commodore of the Sandusky Yacht Club in 1974, and Chairman of the First Fireboat (Sandusky) Committee, also in 1974.

Don is survived by his daughter, Ellen (Dennis) Hoffman of Powell, Ohio; son, Donnie (Missie) Huntley of Huron; grandchildren, Hank and Will Hoffman and D.J. and Ashley Huntley; nephews, Bruce (Susan) Beatty and Craig Huntley (Sue) Stahl; and numerous nieces, nephews and other relatives.

 

 

In loving memory of George Coffman

 

Date of Birth : Aug 11 1943

Place of Birth : Port Clinton, Ohio

 

Date Deceased : February 12th 2018

Place of Death : Kelleys Island, Ohio

 

George F. Coffman, age 74, of Kelleys Island, died Monday morning, February 12, 2018, at Firelands Regional Medical Center, Sandusky, following a lengthy illness. He was born August 11, 1943, in Port Clinton, and graduated from Green Springs High School in 1961. He served in the U.S. Navy and was a member of the Masonic Lodge.

George was a machinist and journeyman tool and die maker, and he also was an instructor at Vanguard Sentinal Career and Technology Center, Fremont. He enjoyed playing the organ. He is survived by his wife Catherine (Siciliano) Coffman; four daughters Kelly (Rick) Maki, Karla (Ross) Ferguson, Jaime (Don) Manrina, and Diana (Chad) Coffman; seven grandchildren; six great grandchildren; and two sisters Margaret (Sant) Selvey, and Mary Jo (Dale) Stein.

George was preceded in death by his parents Richard and Helen (Yurista) Coffman. A Celebration of Life will be held from 4-7 PM Thursday, February 15, 2018, at Ransom Funeral & Cremation Service, 610 S. Washington St., Castalia. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to either the Kelleys Island EMT or Danbury Township EMT.

Caroline Frindt

 

age 79, Kelleys Island, OH, died Wednesday night, May 17, 2017, surrounded by her family in Firelands Regional Medical Center, Sandusky, following a brief illness. She was born March 18, 1938, in Cleveland, OH, and was a 1956 graduate of West Technical High School. Carolee was a kind and loving wife, mother, grandmother, and a friend to all. She was member of St. Michael's Catholic Church, Kelleys Island, where she was a Eucharistic Minister & Lector; a member of the Holiday Park Tennis Club and Bocce Club; a founding member of the Island Singers on Kelleys Island; a Respite Program Caregiver; Meals on Wheels volunteer; Funeral Assistance Program volunteer; active in the St. Brendan's Renewal program; Cub Scout Leader; Girl Scout Leader; and a Kelleys Island Library volunteer, Carolee is survived by her loving husband of 60 years, Edward Frindt Sr; two daughters, Susan (Juan) Fernandez and Kelli (Deny) Bias; two sons, Edward (Amy) Frindt and David (Kim) Frindt; nine grandchildren Edward, Joseph (Kelly), Jonathan, Christopher, Jason, Amanda, Jasmine, Olivia and Sara; one great grandson Carter; One sister Terry (Steve) Kosztya; two brothers John (Lynn) Dessoffy and Ronald (Janet) Dessoffy; brother-in-law Kenneth (Roseann) Frindt; and many nieces and nephews.

Arden Cooper

Arden Brand Cooper, age 69, of Kelleys Island, died Friday, Sept. 28, 2018, in his home surrounded by family and friends. He was born Sept. 30, 1948, to the late Arthur and Elizabeth (Schwab) Cooper in Canton, Ohio.

 

When retiring from the sales, Arden permanently settled down in the cottage his father built on Kelleys Island, where his passion for the community led him to become the mayor of Kelleys Island.

 

Arden is survived by his loving wife of 48 years, Lynn (DePuy) Cooper; his daughter Christi (Shane) Reynolds; two grandchildren Kaylyn (Zachary) Myers, and Sydney Self; great-granddaughter Zelda Myers; two sisters Arthea (Daniel) Lucas and Candice (Gary) Baker; one brother Adair Cooper; and one niece Robin Schwartz.

Dottie A. Simonds

 

Dorothy A. (Millen) Simonds, 90, residing on Kelleys Island, passed away Friday, February 22, 2019 at Firelands Regional Medical Center.

Dorothy was born on June 17, 1928 in Cleveland, OH to the late John E. and Pauline (Brendza) Millen.

Dorothy graduated Cum Laude from Holy Name High School in 1946. She worked as a bank teller at Twinsburg Bank, was a retail manager at Sea World in Aurora, and was an editor and writer for local newspapers, the Bainbridge Banter and Kelleys Life. Dorothy was a member of the Kelleys Island Historical Association, the First Catholic Slovak Ladies Association, was active in the Senior Community on the island, and was part of the Kelleys Island Singers for many years. Dorothy was proud of her late husband, Earl's, service in the U.S. Army during WWII, and she was active in his service organizations along with him. She helped to plan several Army reunions, and was the secretary for the Veterans of the Battle of the Bulge. In her spare time, she enjoyed gardening, hiking, reading, crafts, and spending time with her family, especially her treasured grandchildren. She loved sharing Kelleys Island with family and friends, and all it has to offer.

IYAKO FRANK T. YAKO, age 78. Kelleys Island resident passed away unexpectedly on July 16, 2015. Beloved husband of 55 years to Christine (nee Avarello). Loving father of Frank (Sue), Deborah Phinney, Mark (Gail), Michelle Moore (Wayne), Michael (Fe) and Lisa (Brad Blackwell). Cherished grandfather of Shannon, Elizabeth (Josh Janosik) and Jared Moore, Nicholas, Matthew and Angela Yako, David and Sarah Phinney, Bridget and Rachel Yako, Connor Yako and Hannah, Gretchen and Grace Blackwell. Dearest son of the late Frank and Elizabeth. Dear brother of the late Robert and Delores Danvic. Also survived by nieces, nephews and many dear friends. U.S. Army Veteran. Frank was a mechanic at Otis Elevator for 37 years and member of Local 17. Also a member of St. Michaels Parish on Kelleys Island, the Kelleys Island Volunteer Fire Dept., and the VFW Post 9908. He enjoyed fishing, playing cards, telling stories, driving his golf cart on Kelleys Island but most of all spending time with family and friends.

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Paul E. Mack, age 81, of Huron, passed away peacefully Saturday morning, March 18, 2017, at Stein Hospice Care Center, Sandusky.

He was born on January 20, 1936, in Sandusky, and graduated from Sandusky High School in 1953.  Paul was a member of Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church, Sandusky and St. Michaels Catholic Church, Kelleys Island.  He served in the National Guard for three years from 1958 to 1961.  Paul started working at 3rd National Bank as a bank teller in 1963, and after 31 years he retired as a vice president and the manager of the Perkins Avenue branch of National City Bank in 1994.  Paul also worked for Erie Bay Insurance Agency from 1994 to 2001. 

He was a member the Rotary Club, Exchange Club, Sandusky and Huron Yacht Clubs, a social member of VFW Post 9908, Kelleys Island, and the Jaycees, where he was involved with the Miss Ohio Pageants. Paul enjoyed reading, fishing and ice fishing, and was a big fan of watching Fox News, the Cleveland Browns and Indians, and the Ohio State Buckeyes.  Most of all, Paul loved watching his grandkids grow up and spending his time on Kelleys Island with family and friends.

He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Gail (Merriam) Mack; daughter, Pam (Steve) Avarello, San Diego CA; son, Steven (Julie) Mack, Sandusky; four grandchildren, Gus and Jack Avarello and Katelyn and Alex Mack; and niece, Trisha Fritz.

Kim G. "Breeze" Fresch, 62, of Sandusky, passed away unexpectedly early Tuesday afternoon, March 8, 2016, at the Cleveland Clinic, in Cleveland, OH.
   Born on September 29, 1953, in Sandusky,  the son of Albert Joseph and Marylin June "Torchy" (Siehl) Fresch.  He was a 1972 graduate of Sandusky High School.  Kim was  co-owner of Fresch Electric where he had worked for nearly 50 years, since the age of 13.  He was also  co-owner of the family-run restaurant, on Kelleys Island,  "Fresch's Island House," for 20 years.
   Kim will be remembered as an avid Harley enthusiast and how he loved Super Modified Racing and had also been a crew member for many years.
   He was a member of Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church and the I.B.E.W. Local #129.
   Kim is survived by a daughter, Elizabeth "Liz" (Jason) Kudro of Bellevue; two sons, Nick (financee, Hannah Bishoff) Fresch and Patrick Fresch, both of Sandusky; four grandchildren, Ben Grimm, Leia, Abbey and Khaleesi "Noodle" Kudro; his father, Albert J. Fresch of Huron; brother, Danny (Lizabeth) Fresch; three sisters, Sally (Craig) Dwight, Carol (Joe) Greene and Terese (Duke Hermes) Miller all of Sandusky; numerous nieces and nephews and great-nieces and great-nephews, that he had loved with all of his heart!
   Kim was preceded in death by the love of his life, his mother, Marylin "Torchy" Fresch on June 17, 2015; a brother, Joseph Fresch; and his nephew, A.J. Fresch (2015); and other relatives.

I

Caroline DeBoard

February 15, 1933 ~ August 28, 2020 (age 87)

(Mary) Caroline DeBoard, 87, of Kelleys Island, died Friday, August 28, 2020, in Stein Hospice Care Center, Sandusky, following a brief illness.

She was born Feb. 15, 1933, in Cleveland, to George and Jeanette (Hamilton) Cleary. She owned and operated a bed and breakfast for many years on Kelleys. She was proud to be a great, great, great granddaughter of Datus and Sara Kelley. Datus and his brother Irad, founded Kelleys Island in 1933.

 

After raising four children, she worked as a congressional aide for William Broadhead in the 70’s. She was a strong woman, beating cancer 3 times. The 4th time, not so lucky. Besides her family, her biggest love was Kelleys Island.

 

Caroline is survived by three daughters Lori (Pat) Hayes, Stacey DeBoard, and Beth (Tony) Alfonso; two grandchildren; four step grandchildren; one great granddaughter; two step great grandchildren; sister Anne Sennish; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband Richard E. DeBoard; her parents; sons Richard Kelley DeBoard and Jeffrey Booth DeBoard.

 

Violet 'Vi' (Ward) Feyedelem

 

KELLEYS ISLAND — Violet “Vi” (Ward) Feyedelem, 70, of Kelleys Island, died Tuesday, Oct. 20, 2020, at Stein Hospice Care Center after a lengthy illness.

 

She was born April 22, 1950, in New London, Ohio, to the late Valentine and Emily (Wooten) Ward. She was a graduate of Norwalk High School and enjoyed spending time with her family and friends on Kelleys Island, where she and Michael lived full-time for the last 20 years. She was most proud of her family and her business that she built and ran for almost two decades, Vi’s Island Treasures gift shop. She will be sorely missed.

 

She is survived by her husband, Michael J. Feyedelem of Kelleys Island; sons, Michael Feyedelem (Jana) of San Diego and Christopher Feyedelem (Vickie) of Logan, Utah. She’s also survived by her grandchildren, Joseph of San Diego, Elise of Los Angeles and Jake and Isaac of Logan, Utah. She is survived by her sister, Margaret Gregory, of Norwalk, and brother, Joe Ward, of North Fairfield. She was preceded in death by her parents and her brothers, Clarence Ward and Thomas Ward.

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William P. (Jay) Johnson

1926-2019

"One of a Kind"

Patricia Jean Fresch

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  Patricia JE "Patti" Fresch, 61, of Kelleys Island, OH passed away early Tuesday morning, September 28, 2021, at the Fairview Hospital - Cleveland Clinic, in Cleveland, OH.
   Born on January 28, 1960, in Sandusky, OH ,she was the daughter of Paul E. and Eloise E. ((Schneider) Woodburn.  Patricia attended St. Mary's High School.
   Patti loved life, her children, her family, her friends and her Island. She was a free spirit. She reveled in her greenhouse and gardening, flower designing, making jewelry, walking on the beach, and overall was very creative and loved the arts. History and ancestry were hobbies she enjoyed as part of the Kelleys Island Historical Association and discovering her own family’s history. A great organizer, she worked tirelessly to make every event she was involved in a beautiful and magical perfection. She rarely said no.  No task was too small or large. And all the while, she maintained a sharp, sardonic wit that you could see coming by the glint in her blue eyes, especially when enjoying a nice red wine with a fine dinner. Her life was a living example of Psalm 46:5 — “God is within her, she will not fall; God will help her at break of day.” And if she would have chosen to give us another quote today to help us in our grief, it would be John 16:22 — “So with you: Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy.”
   She was a member of Kelleys Island Historical Society.
   Patti is survived by her three children, Elizabeth (Jason) Kudro of Bellevue, Nickolas (Hannah) Fresch and Patrick Fresch, both of Sandusky; her seven grandchildren, Ben Grimm, Leia, Abbey and Khaleesi Kudro of Bellevue, and Pike, Jolene and Franklin Fresch of Sandusky; her fiance', Steve James of Kelley Island;  her siblings, Dennis (Cindy) Woodburn of North Canton, Terrence (Jennifer) Woodburn of Syracuse, NY, Stephen (Sharon) Woodburn of Huron,  David (Ann MacDonald) Woodburn of Cincinnati, Timothy Woodburn of Medford, OR, Susan (Tom) Lange of Kelleys Island; and many cousins, nieces and nephews.
   She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Kim G. Fresch; her sister, Kathy (Lee) Brookins; her nephew, Christopher Woodburn; and her niece, Amaraya Faith Dillery.
   It was her wish to be cremated.  The family will receive friends from 8:30 am - till 9:45 am on Wednesday morning, October 6, 2021, at the David F. Koch Funeral and Cremation Services, 520 Columbus Avenue, Sandusky.  A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 10 am at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, 510 Columbus Avenue, Sandusky.  Fr. Monte Hoyles officiating.  Burial will take place at a later date in the Kelleys Island Cemetery.

Anne Rutherford Sennish

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Anne Rutherford Sennish, 90, of Kelleys Island passed away Wednesday, November 11, 2020 at the Laurels of Coldwater.

In following her wishes, cremation has taken place and a memorial service and burial will take place at a later date on Kelleys Island, OH. The family was cared for by Dutcher Funeral Home.

Anne was born July 18, 1930 to George and Jeannette (Hamilton) Cleary in Cleveland, OH. She married James Sennish on August 19, 1949 in Detroit. He preceded her in death on February 1, 2011. Anne was a very smart woman. She earned her Master’s Degree from U of M Dearborn, going back to school after raising her children. Anne was a member of the Kelleys Island Historical Society for many years. She had traced her family tree back many generations, making lots of notes to pass on to her family. Anne was very knowledgeable about the history of Kelleys Island. She used to ride the steamer Put-in-Bay from Detroit to Kelleys Island in the pilot room with her uncle, Captain Frank E. Hamilton. She was an avid artist, doing many paintings. Anne was also a very adept writer. She loved music, clogging, dancing, singing, playing piano, and telling family stories. Anne was very proud of her family and always made them a priority in her life, including her extended family.

Mrs. Sennish is survived by her children Dr. John (Robbie) Sennish of Coldwater, Mary Sennish of Kelleys Island, OH, Jane Sennish of Milan, OH, Joseph Sennish of Carmel, CA, and Frank Sennish of Delaware, OH; her grandchildren Andrew (Jessica) Strang, Corey (Sarah) Strang, Melissa Sennish, Holly (Mark) Diamond, James (Katie) Sennish, and Tommy (Chelsea) Strang; her great grandchildren Dominic, Kendall, Gavin, Sofia, Carolina, Arabella, and Beatrice; her nieces Lori (Pat) Hayes, Beth (Tony) DeBoard-Alfonso, and Stacey DeBoard; her niece-in-law Wendy DeBoard; her great nephew Jacob DeBoard; her great niece Kelley (Mike) McGrane; and her great, great niece Phoenix McGrane. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband of 61 years, James Sennish; her sister Mary “Caroline” (Richard) DeBoard; her son-in-law Kyle Paine; and her nephew Richard “Richie” DeBoard.

A special thanks to Northern Lakes Rehabilitation of Angola IN, Masonville of Coldwater, and The Laurels of Coldwater for their excellent care.

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Nick was born August 22, 1925 in Ravenna, Ohio to beloved parents Antonio and Carmela (Bucci) Mendiola. Nick was married on Sept. 27, 1947 to his beloved Madonna M. (Trocchio) for 72 years who sadly passed away July 15, 2019. Nick was also preceded in death by his parents & siblings sister Lucille (Duane) Jones, Elsie (Marion) Esposito and his brothers John Mendiola, Pat Mendiola (Hilda) and George (Karen) Mendiola.

Nick is the cherished father of Carmella S. Vacca (Tony) and Anthony J. Mendiola (Carole), loving grandfather of Erin (David) Puleo, Danny Gaffney, Nick Mendiola (Brittney), Nina Wandrisco (Zack), and special great-grandfather to four: Marlowe & Emilia Mendiola and Leah & Matthew Wandrisco. Nick is also survived by his sister Mary Fritz and many loving nieces and nephews.

Nick was a WWII Vet and attended Oklahoma A&M University for aerial flight training. He was assigned to the 15th Air Force 455th Bombardment Group at San Giovanni in southern Italy. He saw plenty of action as a nose gunner in a B24 heavy bomber & flew 25 missions in Europe.

After the war, he attended Kent State University and went to work for Gougler Industries in Kent, Ohio as a draftsman, sales department manager and eventually purchased Gougler Industries. Nick loved all sports and was an avid sports memorabilia collector. He was most passionate about his beloved Notre Dame Fighting Irish football team. Nick loved spending time on Kelley’s Island during the summer months, where he enjoyed the Island life with his friends and family. His kindness, smiles and many stories will be missed, as he was truly one of a kind.

Laura Jean Pohorence

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KELLEYS ISLAND — Laura Jean Pohorence, 92, residing on Kelleys Island, passed away peacefully at her home on Monday, Dec. 6, 2021.

Laura Jean was born on Dec. 18, 1928, on Kelleys Island to the late Carl and Laura (Martin) Seeholzer.

Laura Jean graduated from Kelleys Island High School.

She and her late husband, Frank, owned and operated the Island Market on Kelleys Island for over 30 years.

Laura Jean was a member of St. Michael Catholic Church.

In her spare time, she enjoyed gardening, participating in all island events over the years, riding her golf cart, and especially cheering on the Cleveland Indians.

Laura Jean is survived by her son, Brad (Patti) Pohorence; daughter, LuAnn Swindell; grandchildren, Scott (Samantha) Pohorence, Autumn (Eric) Schneider, Joey (Whitney) Pohorence; eight great-grandchildren; sister, Colletta Walters; brother, Robert (Jean) Seeholzer; sister-in-law, Jean Seeholzer; and numerous nieces, nephews and other relatives.

In addition to her parents, Laura is preceded in death by her husband of 62 years, Frank Pohorence; sisters, Mary Betzenheimer, Ruth Perruchon, Rita Betzenheimer, Dawn Kekelik, Alice Olwill and Shirley Schreiner; brothers, Lyle Seeholzer, infant Seeholzer; and great-grandchild, Elijah Pohorence.


 

Frances S. Minshall, Wife, Mother Grandmother, Volunteer, dog lover March 2, 2014

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Frances was born April 9, 1922 in Lakewood, Ohio, the daughter of Werner George Smith and Frances Oster Smith.

Frances lived her early life in Lakewood, Ohio with her parents and her sister Eloise. She was a graduate of Hathaway Brown School and Connecticut College.

She was active with both school's alumni organizations and regularly attended reunions. She served her country during WWII as a WAC volunteer and was stationed in Honolulu, HI and loved to tell stories about that time. She was married in Cleveland, Ohio with a reception at The Union Club, to William Edwin Minshall, Jr. of Shakers Heights, Ohio. The couple had met in Del Ray Beach, Florida, where Frances spent her winters.

 

Throughout her life Frances was involved in public service. She was active in Ohio Republican politics, assisting her husband William during his 20 years as a Member of Congress, representing the 23rd District of Ohio. Frances moved her husband and young family to Washington, D.C. in 1953. She raised three young boys in Chevy Chase, MD returning each summer with her boys to her husband's farm on Kelleys Island, Ohio.

Frances specialized in being a grandmother to her 13 grandchildren. Her regular attendance at all of her grandchildren's graduations and sporting events was a fixture in all of their lives.  She had a special spot in her heart for her Islands; Kelleys Island in Ohio, and Barbuda in the West Indies, where she had many friends.

Frances' work as a founding member of the Kelleys Island Historical Association, where she volunteered extensively was one of her proudest accomplishments. She was a member of the Zion Methodist Church on Kelleys Island, Ohio.

Her work as a founding member of the Kelleys Island Historical Association, where she volunteered extensively was one of her proudest accomplishments. She was a member of the Zion Methodist Church on Kelleys Island, Ohio.

Her husband William predeceased her.

She is survived by her three sons, William Edwin Minshall, III, of Kelleys Island, OH, Werner Ellis Minshall and his wife Joan of Chevy Chase, MD and Peter Charles Minshall and his wife Suzanne, of Washington, DC. Grandchildren include, Candice Mulcahy of Washington, DC, Elizabeth Brooks of Bethesda, MD, Laura Tanner of Boston, Mass., Mary Minshall of Washington, D.C. Werner E. Minshall Jr. of Los Angeles, Thaddeus M. Minshall, of Washington, D.C., Julia E. Minshall of Jackson Hole, Wy., Melissa E. Minshall, of Jackson Hole, Wy., Diana C. Minshall, of Washington, D.C., Cathryn M. Scheipers, of Washington, D.C. , Marguerite P. Minshall of Washington, D.C., Peter C Minshall, Jr. of Washington, D.C., and William E. Minshall, IV of Kelleys Island, Ohio. Great grandchildren include Mary, James, and Connie Mulcahy, Lucy Tanner, Harrison and Annie Brooks, and Thaddeus (Mac) Minshall.

Deborah J. Herwick

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Deborah was born on January 29, 1951 in Berea, Ohio to the late Robert A. and Genevieve G. (Goodwin) Herwick.

Deborah received her Master's degree from Bowling Green State University, where she was a member of the Alpha Phi Sorority and began her student teaching in Sylvania, Ohio in 1973. She then taught special education and fourth grade at Maplehurst Elementary School in Norwalk for over 30 years.

Her quest for knowledge drove her to complete ongoing graduate courses, many of which were applicable toward a doctorate degree.

 

Deborah was past president of the Kelleys Island Quarry Condo Association and the Kelleys Island Chamber of Commerce and was active in many other volunteer activities on the Island. In her spare time, she loved gardening, genealogy, and spending time with her family.

 

She was knowledgeable in history, especially the Great Lakes region, and used this knowledge to teach the significance of important historical events to her students. She was and avid reader with a keen intellect and quick wit.

 

Deborah is survived by the love of her life, of 25 years, Wayne Neumann; brothers, Brian (Jan) Herwick of Dallas, TX, and Gary (Linda) Herwick of Milford, MI; aunt, Allene Fitzsimmons of Sandy Springs, GA; nephews, Tom (Sarah) Herwick and Mark Herwick; great-nephew, Alton Herwick; dear friends, Tom and Kathe Henley and numerous others.

Edward Joseph Curilla

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Edward Joseph Curilla, 87, of Kelleys Island, passed away Wednesday evening, June 29, 2011, in the Ohio Veterans Home, Sandusky, following a lengthy illness.

 

He was born on February 3, 1924 in Cleveland, OH and was a U.S. Navy veteran serving in both WWII and the Korean War.

 

Ed’s career was in the field of commercial art.  With much hard work and determination, he opened a very successful studio, Curilla & Associates, in Cleveland, Ohio.  During those twenty-five years, he was often remembered as an endearing mentor by many of his former employees.

 

In the 1960’s, Ed was fortunate enough to purchase a home on his “beloved” Kelleys Island.  In the coming years, he made a point of ensuring that his children and grandchildren would always be able to be a part of the island.

 

Upon his retirement, Ed moved to Kelleys Island.  He enjoyed being active in the community and also served a term on the village council.  He was a member of the Kelleys Island V.F.W. Post 9908. 

 

Ed loved planting a garden and landscaping his yard, to the delight of various onlookers.  He loved political banter with his son, and attending antique auctions with his daughter and grandchildren.  For many years, Ed looked forward to weekly poker games with his island friends.

 

Ed is survived by his daughter, Cynthia (Richard) Holmes , of Kelleys Island; son, Ronald Curilla, of Kelleys Island; grandchildren, Edward Terry, Michael Terry, Brian Terry, and Kevin Curilla; and a sister, Eleanore Chensoff, of Mayfield Village, OH; and nieces and nephews.

 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Frances (Wacko) Curilla; and sisters, Florine Shemple and Adeline Lenehan.

Beatrice (McKillips) Matso

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Beatrice (McKillips) Matso, 75, residing in Huron and formerly of Kelleys Island, passed away Monday morning, February 18, 2019 at The Meadows at Osborn Park after a lengthy illness.

Beatrice was born on September 1, 1943 in Sandusky, OH to the late Allen and Florence (Betzenhiemer) McKillips.

Beatrice and her husband, Russell, owned and operated The Lodge (Matso Place) on Kelleys Island for many years before retiring. She was a member of Zion United Methodist Church of Kelleys Island. She was a proud founding member of the Kelleys Island Historical Society and served on both the Kelleys Island School Board and Water Board. Beatrice enjoyed baking, crocheting, crafts, hiking on the island, and partaking in a friendly game of cards. She loved spending time with her family and friends on Kelleys Island.

Beatrice is survived by her daughter, Lisa (Phil) Luna of Huron; son, Paul Matso of Sandusky; grandchildren, Phillip (Sara) Schaefer, Stephanie Luna, Caitlin Luna, Shannon Matso, Jamie Matso and Laura Matso; great-granddaughter, Iris and numerous nieces, nephews, and other relatives.

In addition to her parents, Beatrice is preceded in death by her husband, Russell Matso in 2006; daughter, Connie Matso and sister, Marline Swasey.

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MOLLY (NEWCOMB) MINSHALL, 44, of Kelleys Island, passed away Tuesday morning at her residence.
After a long and courageous battle with cancer Molly is at peace.

She was the best friend a person could ask for; a devoted mother and wife and an angel to all. Molly enjoyed a truly special relationship with her son Billy and will always have him with her.

She was born August 14, 1965 in Sandusky, OH. She was the marketing director for Kelleys Life newspaper and a past member of the Kelleys Island Board of Education. She is survived by her husband William E. Minshall III, Kelleys Island; son William E. Minshall IV, Kelleys Island; father Robert Newcomb, South Carolina; and brother Brad Newcomb, Sandusky. Molly was preceded in death by her mother Marjorie (Kob) Newcomb.

Carmen Palladino

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"Nannie" (nee Stevens) age 74 of Macedonia and Kelleys Island, Ohio passed away September 5, 2019 at home with her family by her side.

Carmen was the Owner Operator of Seaway Marina on Kelleys Island. She was the beloved wife of James Palladino; loving mother of Martina (Scott) Ridgway, August Palladino, and Angela Palladino; cherished grandmother of Kayla, Benjamin, Carlee, Emily, James, Juliet, and Joelle; and great grandmother of Daniel, dear sister of Ivan (Lynn) Bettinger and Bruce Bettinger.

She loved spending time with her family and many cherished friends along with cooking, gardening and taking care of her homes. She had a lifetime of joy side by side with her husband Jim.

Together they built and managed numerous family businesses that have many valued employees. Her sense of humor and quick wit kept everybody on their toes. We will miss her dearly.

Kyle Paine

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Kyle S. Paine, age 56, of Kelleys Island, OH, died Friday, Oct. 5, 2018, at his residence.  

 

Kyle was born July 5, 1962,  in Mission, Kansas to Robert Paine and Penny (Kyle) Paine.

 

He spent his childhood in Bay Village, Ohio, and vacationed on Kelleys Island as a young boy with his family. He loved Kelleys Island. At the age of 12, he worked for Elmer and Rosie Craft , who had a bait store, dock, and fishing cottages on the island.
After  graduation from Lake Ridge Academy, he attended Kent State University, and at  the age of 21, was given the opportunity to buy the business, Crafts Lakeview Lane from  Rosie and Elmer and became a full time Islander. Fascinated with steam-shovels, he bought  a barge and crane and began the Kelleys Island Dock and Dredge Company and built  timber crib docks for several places of business and private residences on the island. With the purchase of additional equipment, he became an expert excavator on Kelleys. Kyle and Mary worked all of these businesses together.

 

He married Mary Caroline Sennish on September 6, 1997, though they had been together for several years. Kyle loved operating heavy equipment, visiting Pelee Island, fishing and hunting, rock and roll music, and traveling with Mary. California, Hawaii, Mexico, North Africa, Eastern Europe, Australia and his favorite place, New Zealand, were among their travels.

 

He was Mayor of Kelleys Island for four years and  was a very kind and generous person. Anyone who knew Kyle, loved Kyle.

He is survived by his wife Mary Sennish; his mother Elizabeth "Penny" Kyle of Kelleys Island; his father Robert (Jean) Paine of Chardon, OH; one sister Kim Paoletta; and several nieces,  nephews,  and great nieces and nephews.

Patricia A. Haig

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Patricia A. (Hartlieb) Haig, 84, residing on Kelleys Island, OH passed away Thursday evening, June 6, 2019 surrounded by her loving family.

Patricia was born on July 2, 1934 in Lackawanna, NY. She was raised in Detroit, MI by her loving parents, the late Henry and Nina (O'Connor) Hartlieb.

A respected member of her community, she began her career at Erie County Clerk of Courts, and then worked at New Departure, where she met her husband, Kenneth Haig. Patricia and Kenneth returned to Kelleys Island in 1977, where Kenneth was born and raised. Upon moving to Kelleys Island, she worked for the United State Postal Service, served several terms at village clerk, and worked 28 years as general manager at Seaway Marina. She is remembered by many for her dedicated service to the Kelleys Island School Board, where she served several years as president.

Patricia was a member of St. Michael's Catholic Church on Kelleys Island. She enjoyed birds, wildlife, reading, her dog, Gizmo and socializing with friends. She especially enjoyed being with her family, her grandchildren and living on Kelleys Island. Patricia was well known for her sense of humor, kindness and genuine friendships.

Patricia is survived by her children, Keith (Deb) Haig, Paula (Paul) Moody, Kevin (JoAnn) Haig and Pamela (Chad) Lynch; grandchildren, Kelsey, Megan, Marisa, Matthew, Nicholas, Nicole, Heather, Ashley, Cadence, Keegan and Lochlan; four great-grandchildren; sister-in-law, Mary Lou Haig and numerous loving nieces, nephews, and friends.

Richard J. Sennish

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Geraldine M. Betzenheimer

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Geraldine (Erne) Betzenheimer, 81, of Kelleys Island, went to be with our Lord Aug. 20, 2018, after a lengthy illness.

She was born Jan. 14, 1937, on Kelleys Island and was a lifetime resident. She was a 1954 graduate of Kelleys Island High School, a member of the Historical Society, and a lifetime member of St. Michael's  Catholic Church. She retired as Postmaster from the Kelleys Island Post Office in 1999.

 

Her favorite pastime, after retiring was knitting, crocheting, cooking, and visiting with her many friends.

Geraldine is survived by her daughter Pamela (Michael Dwight) Betzenheimer of Kelleys Island, and her sister Renetta Matso of Sandusky.

She was preceded in death by her husband Lawrence Betzenheimer, parents Roy and Iva (Riedy) Erne, brother Robert Erne, 4 brothers-in- law Lloyd Matso, John, Alvin, and Frances Betzenheimer, and sister-in-law Florence Betzenheimer McKillips.

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